UAE players eye banks overseas

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WHAT WE’RE TRACKING TODAY

THIS MORNING: Takaful industry set to grow this year + oil markets could turn to a surplus in 4Q 2024

Good morning, friends, and happy hump day. It’s another busy day of earnings and M&A updates, in keeping with what’s shaping up to be the flavor of the month.

We have news of two Emirati players eyeing stakes in banks overseas, with ADQ reportedly in talks to acquire Turkish bank Odeabank, and Emirates NBD inching closer to acquiring a stake in India’s Yes Bank.

HAPPENING TODAY-

Sudanese peace talks in Geneva today: US Special Envoy Tom Perriello confirmed that negotiations to end Sudan's 16-month conflict will proceed despite limited signs of commitment from either the Sudanese army or the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Reuters writes. The Swiss-hosted talks, scheduled to start today and potentially extending to 24 August, will include observers from the African Union, Egypt, UAE, and the UN, with the location undisclosed for security reasons, Bloomberg reports.

WEATHER- The mercury hits 42°C in Dubai, before cooling to an overnight low of 36°C. Over in Abu Dhabi, the mercury peaks at 40°C, with an overnight low of 34°C.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS-

#1- Drivers can shave off four of their black points if they sign a pledge on 26 August on road safety and avoid any traffic violations on that day, which coincides with the start of the new school year, according to a ministry statement. The black point reduction will be applied two weeks post-event.

#2- The first tax period for newly established companies’ for the corporate tax will align with their financial year, with financial years starting 1 June 2023 or after being subject to the tax, the Federal Tax Authority clarified in a recent circular (pdf). The first tax period can be anywhere between 6-18 months, depending on where they were in their first financial year when the corporate tax went into effect — but the authority will count 12 months after the start of their official financial year as the full financial year for future tax periods.

#3- SCA urges claims for pre-March 2015 dividends: The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) is calling on shareholders in UAE-listed public joint stock companies to claim any unclaimed dividends or cash in dormant accounts at brokerage firms from before March 2015. The SCA has designated First Abu Dhabi Bank for handling dividend payments. Detailed instructions on the claims process are available on the SCA's website.

#4- The Human Resources and Emiratisation Ministry will settle claims of up to AED 50k in disputes related to employment violations, or in the case of non-compliance with prior settlements, Wam reported, clarifying additional details on criminal proceedings under new amendments to the labor law made this week. Claimants can then file a lawsuit with the Court of First Instance — which is now in charge of handling employment disputes — within 15 days to contest the Ministry’s decision.

ICYMI- The government amended provisions of the UAE Labor Law earlier this week, subjecting employers who violate employment regulations to fines ranging from AED 100k to AED 1 mn, and tasking the Court of Instance with criminal proceeds for labor disputes.

WATCH THIS SPACE-

#1- The UAE’s takaful ins. industry — the second largest in the Mena region after Saudi Arabia — is expected to grow 15-20% in 2024, driven by surging motor ins. rates after April’s floods, according to S&P Global’s latest report. This rebound is expected to come on the heels of a dip in premium income in the UAE that impacted Islamic ins. providers’ toplines in 2023.

What was behind last year’s dip? S&P attributed the decline to consolidation in the industry and rate pressures, which in turn.

The regional outlook: The GCC ins. sector’s revenues are poised to top USD 20 bn this year, with the sector expected to grow 15-20%. The Saudi market is expected to drive the income growth on the back of its economic growth.

More ins. providers to merge: With one-third of Emirati ins. firms merging in recent years, the rating agency sees the sector’s merger activity continuing its momentum. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are anticipated to lead the mergers due to “several Islamic insurers still [failing] to meet the required solvency capital requirements,” in addition to strong competition and stringent regulatory demand.

#2- Enec could cooperate with the Philippines on nuclear energy: The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corp. (Enec) and the Philippines are exploring a potential partnership to introduce nuclear power to the Philippines’ energy mix, the Philippine News Agency reported. Enec Chairman Mohamed Al Hammadi held a phone call with Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Manila, where the latter stressed the urgent need to explore nuclear energy for power generation.

OIL WATCH-

Global oil markets, currently facing a deficit on the back of high summer demand, could shift to a surplus in the next quarter if Opec+ follows through with its plan to boost supplies in October, Bloomberg reports citing an International Energy Agency (IEA) report. Oil inventories dipped in June by 26.2 mn barrels a day (bbl / d) on the back of increased summer demand.

Demand is covered for next year: Even if the Opec+ cuts stay in place, oil inventories could gain an average 860k bbl / d next year on the back of non-Opec+ supply.

REMEMBER- The oil carter agreed to begin phasing out production cuts this fall at a June meeting in Riyadh, but said it could pause or reverse this decision depending on market conditions. A decision on this could come within a few weeks, Bloomberg said.

The next checkpoint: The group is scheduled to meet again on Sunday, 1 December 2024.

THE BIG STORY ABROAD-

It’s a busy day in the international business press this morning, giving us a mix of business and political headlines.

FIRST UP- Starbucks has replaced its CEO, Laxman Narasimhan, a year and a half into his tenure after facing pressure to make changes in the business from activist investor Elliott Management and former CEO Howard Schultz. The coffee chain has tapped Brian Niccol — currently Chipotle’s chief executive — as its new CEO to execute a turnaround strategy after the business suffered falling sales this year and its shares have faltered. During his tenure at Chipotle since 2018, Niccol has helped lead the company’s revamped performance, driving sales up and leading its shares to rise more than threefold.

MARKET REAX- Starbucks’ shares closed up 24.5% yesterday, while Chipotle’s shares fell 7.5%. (Reuters | Financial Times | Wall Street Journal | Bloomberg)

Ukraine is pushing forward with a significant cross-border advance into Russia’s Kursk region, where it surprised Russia last week to land “its biggest battlefield gains since 2022.” Ukrainian soldiers have captured an unspecified number of Russian troops, which Kyiv says can be exchanged for Ukrainian prisoners. Russia has also reportedly withdrawn some of its forces from Ukraine, although it remains unclear how many or where they will be repositioned. (Washington Post | Reuters | Wall Street Journal | New York Times)

AND- Hamas may not participate in tomorrow’s ceasefire negotiations, brokered by Qatar and Egypt, with a senior official from the group saying that Israel’s approach to the talks is hampering progress. Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly “quietly made new demands in recent weeks, additions his own negotiators fear have created extra obstacles to [an agreement],” according to the New York Times.

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CIRCLE YOUR CALENDAR-

The World ESG Summit is scheduled to take place on 20-21 August at Dusit Thani in Dubai. The two-day business conference will gather public and private sector players from key sectors like energy, utilities finance, and manufacturing to explore ESG integration across all industries.

The Dubai Business Forum in Beijing, China is set to take place between 21-22 August. Hosted by Dubai Chambers, the event will gather over 50 Dubai-based companies and 350 Chinese firms to explore potential investments in sectors like green tech, AI, healthcare, and renewable energy, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah told the National.

Rex Fuels will host the Global Bitumen, Petrochemicals & Petroproducts Conference at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai on 21-22 August 2024. The conference will bring together bitumen and petroleum producers, suppliers, and traders, to network and discuss trends and challenges in the industry.

The Smart Cities Mena Summit is set to take place in Dubai on 14 October, gathering global policymakers, business leaders, and academics to discuss cross-sector cooperation aimed at enhancing capabilities and achieving economic goals, Wam reports.

The Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association Show is scheduled to take place at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai from 10-12 December, according to a statement. The three-day event will serve as a platform for aviation firms to network and showcase their latest offerings. Some regional operators that will be in attendance include Saudia Private, Qatar Executive, Mukamalah Aviation Company, and Jet Aviation.

Check out our full calendar on the web for a comprehensive listing of upcoming news events, national holidays and news triggers.

ADQ mulls acquisition of Turkey’s Odeabank + Emirates NBD closer to acquiring stake in Yes Bank?

We have news of not one, but two pending acquisitions from Emirati players of foreign banks — with ADQ reportedly eyeing an acquisition in Turkey, and Emirates NBD inching closer to an acquisition of a stake in India’s Yes Bank.

#1- ADQ mulls acquisition of Turkey’s Odeabank: Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund ADQ has reportedly been in talks to acquire Turkey’s Odeabank for months, Bloomberg reports, citing people with knowledge of the matter. Final decisions are still pending, and it remains uncertain if ADQ will move forward with acquiring the bank, the sources disclosed. The Turkish lender, established by current majority shareholder Lebanon’s Bank Audi, has USD 2.6 bn worth of assets. Bank Audi holds a 76.4% stake in the Turkish lender.

Emirati players have an appetite for Turkish banks: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) was reportedly close to finalizing talks to take a 61.2% stake in Yapi Kredi, but negotiations stalled as Koc sought a higher price, blocking FAB from conducting due diligence. Dubai Islamic Bank also announced plans back in September to acquire a 20% stake in Turkey's TOM Group of Companies.

REMEMBER- Ties between the UAE and Turkey have warmed as of late: Last year, the UAE inked over USD 50 bn in agreements with Turkey during a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, including commitments to develop energy and natural resources projects and a trade agreement.

#2- Emirates NBD closer to snagging a stake in Yes Bank? Dubai’s Emirates NBD is reportedly in advanced talks with the State Bank of India (SBI) to acquire its full 24% stake in Indian Yes Bank, a share holding valued at USD 2.2 bn, Reuters reports, citing people familiar with the matter. While SBI has denied that talks have progressed, the Indian bank reportedly aims to reach an agreement by March 2025. SBI is expected to gain about INR 100 bn (USD 1.19 bn) if the sale goes through.

It’s not just SBI’s stake Emirates NBD is after: The bank is competing for a “majority 51% stake in Yes Bank to get sizable control of the bank's business,” alongside Japan’s second largest bank Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp, a source told the newswire.

What’s next? The Reserve Bank of India has already greenlit SBI’s stake sale, and will now need to approve the bidders, who are currently reportedly conducting due diligence on the bank. The two banks are also hoping the regulator will relax the regulatory requirement that controlling shareholders reduce their stake to 26% within 15 years of the investment, one source said.

Background: News of Emirates NBD eying the Indian bank first surfaced in April, with Japan’s Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. also reported to be bidding for the stake. Separately, Bloomberg had reported that First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) was also pursuing the 51% stake, valued at USD 5 bn, a claim which FAB denied.

It’s not the only Indian bank Emirates NBD has been tied to: Emirates NBD also reportedly secured a spot among the final bidders for a majority stake in state-owned Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI), with the Indian government reportedly planning to sell a 60% stake in the bank.

OTHER M&A NEWS-

Germany’s Stada expands into the UAE with Fito takeover: German pharma company Stada has acquired Fito, a medical device used for treating burns, ulcers, wounds, and abrasions, from Egypt’s Leo Pharma, in a bid to expand its consumer healthcare business in the Mena region, according to a press release. The transaction hands it control of business operations in the UAE, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and other key Mena markets. The financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Dubai inflation hits seven-month low in July

Annual inflation in Dubai cooled in July to its lowest level this year, inching down to 3.32% from 3.85% in June, according to figures (pdf) from the Dubai Statistics Center. The lower inflation reading was driven by decreased furnishings and household maintenance, transport, information and communication, recreation, sport, and culture, and restaurants and accommodation services costs.

The breakdown: Prices of housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels — the largest component of the basket of goods and services — increased at the highest pace this year to 6.76% during July, compared to 6.66% in June, while food and beverage inflation accelerated to 2.46% from 2.35%.

Month-on-month, Dubai’s inflation slowed to a 0.08% decrease in July, down from a 0.28% increase in June, according to the statistics center’s monthly inflation report (pdf).

UAE, Saudi led regional IPOs in 2Q 2024

The UAE showed strong IPO activity in 2Q, with two listings accounting for 33.8% of total IPO proceeds recorded in the Mena region during the quarter, according to EY’s Mena IPO Eye report. Saudi Arabia led the market in terms of number of listings, with 11 IPOs completed during the quarter.

The UAE listings in question: Alef Education’s IPO was the second biggest share float in the Mena region in 2Q 2024, raising USD 515 mn — accounting for 19.5% of the total IPO proceeds in the region. Meanwhile Spinneys’ IPO on the DFM raised USD 375 mn (c. AED 1.38 bn) after receiving more than AED 71 bn in orders.

The regional picture: IPO proceeds increased 45.3% y-o-y in 2Q, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the lead. A total of 14 companies debuted on Mena exchanges during the quarter, up from 13 IPOs in 2Q 2023. Kuwait saw its first listing since 4Q 2019 with the USD 147 mn listing of Beyout Investment Group Holding.

Behind the activity: “Increased liquidity driven by higher oil prices, economic recovery, and positive market sentiment has kept the IPO activity in the region buoyant with a strong pipeline for 2H 2024,” EY Mena strategy and transactions leader Brad Watson said.

Global IPO activity was not as robust, with IPO volume falling 15% y-o-y to 271 IPOs worth USD 27.8 bn.

Looking ahead, 16 private companies and seven funds are expected to IPO over the remainder of 2024 on Mena exchanges.

REMEMBER- We have a healthy pipeline for the rest of the year: Etihad Airways and supermarket chain LuLu group have each tapped banks to advise on their planned IPOs on the ADX, while Alpha Dhabi is mulling a USD 200 mn IPO as soon as this year. Alpha Dhabi Holding’s CEO also pointed to plans to list some of the firm’s subsidiaries this year.

Over on the DFM, both construction firm Alec and hospitality group Five Holdings tapped advisors, and shisha producer Advanced Inhalation Rituals was said to be eyeing an IPO in 1H 2024. Amanat Holdings is looking to list either its education or healthcare unit, with reports that its healthcare unit could raise some USD 200 mn as soon as this year.

Still rolling in…

AD PORTS-

Abu Dhabi-based port operator AD Ports recorded a 42% y-o-y increase in net income to AED 439 mn in 2Q 2024, according to an earnings release (pdf). The company’s revenues more than doubled to AED 4.18 bn during the same period.

On a six-month basis: AD Ports’ bottom line jumped 25% y-o-y to AED 839 mn in 1H 2024, while the firm’s revenues climbed 108% y-o-y to 8.07 bn during the same period.

Recent acquisitions are paying off: Strategic acquisitions, including Noatum Logistics, Sesé Auto Logistics, and the Global Feeder Shipping back in January contributed to higher revenues during the quarter. “Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024 and beyond, we are on course for the profitable internationalization of the group,” group CEO Mohamed Al Shamisi said.

GFH GROUP-

ADX-listed GFH Financial Group saw its net income rise 14.7% y-o-y to USD 37.6 mn in 2Q 2024, according to the company’s financials (pdf). GFH’s investment banking earnings amounted to USD 42 mn, down 7.6% y-o-y, while its commercial banking earnings increased 16.5% y-o-y, reaching USD 33.8 mn during the period.

Growth drivers: GFH's Dubai-based real estate management arm, GFH Partners, completed the placement of USD 165 mn in transactions across the US and UK markets and closed its USD 300 mn US Industrial and Logistics Fund during the quarter, according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

On a 1H basis: GFH’s net income increased 18.7% y-o-y to USD 67.9 mn in the first half of the year.

YALLA GROUP-

Yalla Group posted AED 115.3 mn in net income in 2Q 2024, up 10.9% y-o-y, according to an earnings release. The NYSE-listed social networking and gaming company’s revenues rose 2.5% y-o-y to AED 298.3 mn, on the back of improved operational procedures and technology utilization, and user acquisition strategies, which drove up average monthly active users 14.1% y-o-y to 39 mn during the quarter.

In 1H 2024, Yalla Group’s bottom line stood at AED 229.6 mn, marking a 29.7% y-o-y increase, on revenues of AED 587.3 mn, up 4.7% y-oy.

SALIK-

Dubai road-toll operator Salik’s net income inched down 1.9% y-o-y in 2Q 2024 to AED 267.5 mn, according to its financials (pdf). Salik attributed the modest decline to the recently-introduced 9% corporate tax in a separate earnings release (pdf). The toll operator’s revenues climbed 3.1% y-o-y to AED 532.7 mn.

On a six-month basis, Salik’s net income remained relatively flat at AED 544.8 mn in 1H, down 0.6% y-o-y. The toll operator’s revenues rose 5.6% y-o-y to AED 1.09 bn, driven by a 4.9% increase in toll usage revenue to AED 953.8 mn, which accounts for 87.1% of the total revenue.

Dividends: The company will pay 100% of 1H net income as interim dividends to shareholders, equivalent to AED 544.8 mn, the release said.

RAK CERAMICS-

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Ceramics’ net income dipped 32.1% y-o-y to AED 51 mn in 2Q 2024, according to the company’s financial statements (pdf). In a separate earnings release (pdf), the company attributed the decline to an AED 6.4 mn impact from the 9% corporate tax. RAK Ceramics saw its net revenues dip 10.9% to AED 777 mn in 2Q on the back of “ongoing geopolitical volatility, supply chain disruptions, and economic slowdowns in key regions,” the company said.

A look at 1H: The company’s bottom line fell 26.6% y-o-y to AED 113.9 mn in 1H 2024. Meanwhile, its revenues stood at AED 1.56 bn, falling 11.2% y-o-y during the period.

RAK Ceramics is paying out AED 99.4 mn in interim dividends for its 1H 2024 earnings.

AGILITY GLOBAL-

ADX-listed global logistics provider and Kuwait’s Agility subsidiary Agility Global saw its net income attributable to shareholders grow 757% y-o-y to USD 43.6 mn in 2Q 2024, according to its financials (pdf). Revenues from contracts with customers increased 16% y-o-y to USD 1.1 bn. The company’s subsidiaries — including Dubai-based energy logistics provider Tristar, Menzies Aviation, and Agility Logistics Park — all experienced double digit EBITDA growth, it said in its earnings release (pdf).

On a six-month basis, its net income grew more than 2000% to USD 60.3 mn, while revenues from contracts rose 11% y-o-y to USD 2.09 bn.

ICYMI- Agility — which owns Dubai-based energy logistics firm Tristar — listed its operations and assets management unit, Agility Global, on the ADX in a technical listing in May.

BAYANAT-

AI company Bayanat saw its net income decrease 83% y-o-y in 2Q 2024 to hit AED 8.8 mn, according to its financials (pdf). Revenues rose 22.6% y-o-y to AED 160.0 mn during the quarter on the back of contributions from smart operational and geospatial solutions, according to its earnings release (pdf).

On a six-month basis, the geospatial services provider saw its net income after tax fall 74.2% y-o-y to AED 19.1 mn in 1H 2024, while its revenues climbed 18% y-o-y to AED 273.3 mn.

INVEST BANK-

Sharjah-based Invest Bank reported a 28.5% y-o-y drop in net income to AED 16.3 mn in 2Q 2024, according to the company’s financial statements (pdf). The ADX-listed bank's revenue rose 75% y-o-y during the quarter to AED 71.2 mn, with net interest income increasing 98% y-o-y to AED 47.1 mn.

On a six-month basis, Invest Bank saw its net income grow 2,343% y-o-y to AED 98.7 mn. The lender’s revenue reached AED 138.9 mn, up 77% y-o-y, mainly attributed to a 102% y-o-y improvement in net interest income, which made up 67% of total revenue, according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

SHARJAH CEMENT AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT-

Sharjah Cement and Industrial Development’s net income dipped 25.3% y-o-y to AED 1.2 mn in 2Q 2024, according to the company’s financial statements (pdf). Revenues increased 18.9% y-o-y during the quarter to AED 170.3 mn, driven by improved sales, according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

The company turned to the black in 1H 2024, reporting a net income of AED 9.6 mn, compared to the AED 5.9 mn loss incurred during the same period last year. The turnaround is attributed to lower raw material and energy costs, along with higher investment returns, the release said. Revenues rose to AED 337.9 mn during the first half of the year, up 12.2% y-o-y.

WATANIA INTERNATIONAL HOLDING-

Watania International Holding turned to the black in 2Q 2024, recording a bottom line of AED 2 mn, compared with a loss of AED 1.1 mn in 2Q 2023 year, according to the company’s financial statements (pdf). Watania’s Takaful revenues decreased 3.3% y-o-y to AED 218 mn during the quarter.

On a six-month basis, Watania reported a net income of AED 7.9 mn in 1H 2024, up from a net loss of AED 3.9 mn in 1H 2023. The turnaround is attributed to higher underwriting earnings, which offset large one-time claims and losses incurred in the company’s motor and property segment due to unprecedented rains in the UAE in April, according to a separate earnings release (pdf). Revenues fell 17.4% y-o-y in 1H to AED 389.4 mn.

UNION INS.-

Union Ins.’ net income fell 38% y-o-y to AED 1.2 mn in 2Q 2024, according to its financial statements (pdf). The company recorded AED 148.1 mn in revenue during the quarter, down 7% y-o-y. On a six-month basis, Union Ins.’ net income fell 4% y-o-y to AED 12.9 mn in 1H 2024. The company’s revenues also dipped 7% y-o-y to USD 297.7 mn.

GULF MEDICAL PROJECTS-

Gulf Medical Projects saw a 57% y-o-y jump in its bottom line in 2Q 2024, reaching AED 24.4 mn, according to the hospital operator’s financial statements (pdf). The company logged AED 164.2 mn in revenues for the period, marking a 23.5% y-o-y increase. In 1H 2024, Gulf Medical Projects reported a bottom line of AED 47.6 mn, up 47.5% y-o-y, on revenues of AED 331.2 mn, up 23% y-o-y.

GCC sovereign funds shift the balance as they push for more regional engagement from asset managers

A shift among GCC wealth funds — including the UAE’s — from being passive investors towards setting demands in exchange for their capital is the focus of a new feature on Bloomberg. Asset managers are being urged to establish a stronger presence in the Gulf region, with funds demanding that they bring more of their operations to the region.

With the main incentive for investing in US funds being economic diversification, GCC sovereign wealth funds are focusing on strategic partnerships with managers willing to go along with the concessions, such as cutting fees and changing fee structures.

Mubadala has “sent shocks through wall street” with a series of high-profile investments, including a USD 700 mn investment in private equity firm Aquarian Holdings. Its investment arm — the first set up by a GCC fund — is now exploring plans to divest at least part of its investment to other firms. New York-based Aquarian raised some USD 1.5 bn from Mubadala and other investors in June.

Empower kicks off construction on Deira district cooling facility

INFRASTRUCTURE-

Construction begins on Empower’s district cooling facility in Dubai’s Deira: The construction of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation’s (Empower) district cooling facility in Dubai’s Deira district has kicked off, after the company awarded the main construction contract to an undisclosed entity, a statement (pdf) from Empower showed. The facility will serve 46 buildings in the Deira Waterfront Development.

Empower's cooling plant will be developed in two phases, with a planned output capacity of 39k refrigeration tons. The first phase will have an output capacity of 20k refrigeration tons and is slated to go live by the end of June 2025.

MANUFACTURING-

Krohne opens Dubai office: German process instrumentation manufacturer Krohne has launched a new office in Expo City Dubai to serve as a hub for the company’s operations in the UAE and help it boost ties with partners in the Emirati government and private sector, according to a statement picked up by Zawya. In addition, the office will house training facilities offering workshops for its services team.

Uh, Enterprise, what is process instrumentation? Process instrumentation refers to the use of equipment to monitor and optimize several variables in industrial processes, such as the level of temperature, pressure, and flow.

M&A-

Emirates NBD’s REIT sells Remraam towers: Shariah-compliant real estate investment trust ENBD REIT, which is managed by Emirates NBD Asset Management, has finalized the sale of its two Remraam residential towers in Dubailand, according to a statement picked up by Zawya. The transaction was valued above the 31 March market value of the assets, which was USD 12 mn according to ENBD REIT’s website.

Where will the money go? ENBD REIT will use the sale proceeds to reduce its debt, bringing its loan-to-value ratio down to 49.4% from 51%. The towers, which the trust purchased in 2015, accounted for 4% of its portfolio.

TECH-

TDRA launches a testing platform for new tech products: The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has launched its ICT Regulatory Sandbox, which allows new ICT products and services to be tested before getting approved for mass distribution, according to a statement on X. The initiative allows tech companies to test the feasibility of their products, and identify potential shortcomings — either in the product itself or in regulations — ahead of rolling them out to consumers.

The platform targets technologies such as virtual reality, cloud computing, blockchain, the Internet of Things, and over-the-top (OTT) applications.

MARITIME-

Dubai to get a unified platform for private yachts registration: Dubai Maritime Authority has partnered with luxury yacht builder Gulf Craft to establish an online, unified platform for registering and licensing private yachts in the emirate, according to a statement from Gulf Craft.

SUSTAINABILITY-

TÜV SÜD Middle East partners with Tata Consultancy to access its carbon management platform: Abu Dhabi-based inspection firm TÜV SÜD Middle East, the Middle Eastern arm of Germany’s TÜV SÜD, will leverage Tata Consultancy Services’s (TCS) proprietary TCS Zero Carbon Platform to boost carbon management efforts for its customers under a new partnership, according to a statement from TCS. The Indian consulting firm’s platform uses AI to analyze data and identify emission hotspots, helping organizations monitor their carbon footprints.

TRADE-

Sharjah, Costa Rica discuss advancing trade relations: The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with Costa Rica’s Foreign Trade Promoter (Procomer) on Tuesday to probe means of boosting trade ties, and investments between the UAE and Costa Rica, Wam reported.

Adani in hot water — again

India’s Adani Group shed USD 2.4 bn, or 1%, in market value on Monday due to a heavy sell-off of its shares following a report from US short seller Hindenburg accusing the head of India’s market regulator Madhabi Puri Buch of holding investments in offshore funds that are also used by the conglomerate, Reuters reported. Both Adani and Buch denied the claims, with the conglomerate dismissing them as “red herrings thrown by a desperate entity.”

Are you having deja vu? Adani Group was hit by a wave of short-selling in January 2023 by Hindenburg Research, after the activist-investor accused the conglomerate of stock manipulation, causing a massive sell-off of Adani Group’s shares, which wiped approximately USD 72 bn off its stock market value.

Why do we care? Adani and the UAE have close ties, with Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (Adia) investing in Adani’s power distribution arm Adani Energy Solutions’ USD 1 bn secondary share sale last month. An International Holding Company (IHC) subsidiary also recently partnered with Adani Energy to expand smart metering in India, while another Adani subsidiary agreed to digitize India’s economy through AI and blockchain with a separate IHC venture. In addition, IHC raised its stake in Adani Enterprises in October to more than 5%, expressing interest in further investments in India.

ALSO- Adani Enterprises is reportedly set to launch another USD 1 bn share sale next month. Adani was forced to hold off on a planned USD 2.5 bn share offer in February 2023 in the wake of the Hindenburg ordeal.

THE MARKETS THIS MORNING-

Asian markets are mixed in early trading this morning, with the Nikkei and Kospi up and the Hang Seng and Shanghai Composite in the red. Futures for major US equities benchmarks were mostly unchanged overnight.

ADX	9,175	-0.4% (YTD: -4.2%)
DFM	4,185	-0.4% (YTD: +3.1%)
Nasdaq Dubai UAE20	3690	0% (YTD: -4%)
USD : AED CBUAE	Buy 3.67	Sell 3.67
EIBOR	+5% o/n	+4.6% 1 yr
TASI	11,797	+0.5% (YTD: -1.4%)
EGX30	29,331	-1.3% (YTD: +17.8%)
S&P 500	5,434	+1.7% (YTD: +13.9%)
FTSE 100	8,235	+0.3% (YTD: +6.5%)
Euro Stoxx 50	4,695	+0.5% (YTD: +3.8%)
Brent crude	USD 80.69	-2.0%
Natural gas (Nymex)	USD 2.15	+0.3%
Gold	USD 2,506	-0.1%
BTC	USD 60,985	+3.4% (YTD: +44.4%)

THE CLOSING BELL-

The DFM fell 0.4% yesterday on turnover of AED 301.6 mn. The index is up 3.1% YTD.

In the green: International Financial Advisors (+11.9%), Parkin Company (+2.2%) and GFH Financial Group (+1.7%).

In the red: National International Holding Company (-9.9%), Orascom Construction (-5.7%) and Emirates Reem Investments Company (-5.5%).

Over on the ADX, fell 0.4% on turnover of 978.9 mn. Meanwhile, Nasdaq Dubai fell 0.03%.

CORPORATE ACTIONS-

The National Investor is proceeding with its plan to reduce its share capital from AED 285 mn to AED 235 mn, it said in an ADX disclosure (pdf). The AED 50 mn reduction amount will be returned to shareholders on 26 August.

REFRESHER- Last month, the company obtained shareholder approval to bring its share capital down by canceling 50 mn shares with a book value of AED 50 mn. The value of the reduction will be returned to the shareholders “because the company does not need it.”

CALENDAR

AUGUST

14 August (Wednesday): UAE to participate in ceasefire talks co-mediated by the US and KSA between the warring factions in Sudan.

20-21 August (Tuesday-Wednesday): The World ESG Summit, Dubai.

21-22 August (Wednesday-Thursday): Rex Fuels Global Expo & Conference 2024- Bitumen, Petrochemicals & Products, Dubai.

21-22 August (Wednesday-Thursday): Dubai Business Forum in Beijing, China.

25 August (Sunday): Deadline to register for the AI Challenge.

27 August (Tuesday): New regulations on telemarketing calls will go into effect.

SEPTEMBER

4-5 September (Wednesday-Thursday): 2024 International Government Communication Forum, Expo Centre Sharjah, Sharjah.

5 September (Thursday): Deadline to apply for the sixth edition of Access Sharjah Challenge.

5 September (Thursday): Deadline to apply for Dubai Future Academy’s FEEL: A Disruptive Futures Program.

9-11 September (Monday-Wednesday): World Utilities Congress, Abu Dhabi.

10-11 September (Tuesday-Wednesday): MENA PPP forum, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai.

10-11 September (Tuesday-Wednesday): MENA District Cooling Projects & MENA Cool Forum, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai.

11-12 September (Wednesday-Thursday): MENA oil and gas digitization conference, Abu Dhabi.

16-18 September (Monday-Wednesday): World Utilities Congress, Abu Dhabi.

15-19 September (Sunday-Thursday): Loop Beyond Borders, Abu Dhabi.

23-25 September (Monday-Wednesday): WorldFreezonesOrganization’s Annual International Conference and Exhibition, Dubai.

25-26 September (Wednesday-Thursday): Green Steel Summit, Dubai, UAE.

25-26 September (Wednesday-Thursday): Global Aerospace Summit, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

28-30 September (Saturday-Monday): World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) Biennial General Meeting, Abu Dhabi.

30 September (Monday): Dubai Podfest, World Trade Center, Dubai.

OCTOBER

1-3 October (Tuesday-Thursday): Water, Energy and Environment Technology Exhibition, Dubai.

2-3 October (Wednesday-Thursday): The World Green Economy Summit, World Trade Center Dubai.

7-8 October (Monday-Tuesday): Forex expo, World Trade Center, Dubai.

8-9 October (Tuesday-Wednesday)): Global Trade and Supply Chain Summit, Dubai.

8-10 October (Tuesday-Thursday): The Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference(Global Rail), Abu Dhabi.

13-18 (Sunday-Friday): Gitex Global, Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Harbour.

14-18 October (Monday-Friday): IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems, Adnec Centre, Abu Dhabi.

14 October (Monday): The Smart Cities MENA Summit, Dubai.

15 October (Tuesday): Deadline for the European Commission to make a decision on its probe into e&’s acquisition of PPF’s Eastern European assets.

21-22 October (Monday-Tuesday): Port Development MEA Forum, Dubai.

21-22 October (Monday-Tuesday): Roads, Bridges, Tunnels MENA Conference, Dubai.

21-22 October (Monday-Tuesday): The Alternative Investment Summit, Dubai.

24-27 October (Thursday-Sunday): International Sports Medicine Conference, Dubai.

26 October (Saturday): UFC 308: TOPURIA vs HOLLOWAY, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi.

26-27 October (Saturday-Sunday): International Conference on Tourism, Transport, and Logistics, Dubai.

28-29 October (Monday-Tuesday): MENA Climate Proof Forum, Dubai.

29 October-2 November (Tuesday-Saturday): Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week, Abu Dhabi.

30 October-1 November (Wednesday-Friday): World Cities Cultural Summit, Dubai.

NOVEMBER

3-10 November (Sunday-Sunday): Dubai Premier Padel P1, Dubai Dutyfree Tennis Stadium, Dubai.

4-7 November (Monday-Thursday): ADIPEC, Abu Dhabi.

4-7 November (Wednesday-Saturday): ADIPEC Maritime and Logistics Exhibition and Conference, Abu Dhabi.

4-7 November (Wednesday-Saturday): ADIPEC Decarbonisation Accelerator, Abu Dhabi.

6 November (Friday): World Finance Forum, Dubai.

11 November (Monday): Dubai Diamond Conference, Jafza One Convention Centre, Dubai.

11-12 November (Monday-Tuesday): META Cinema Forum, Dubai.

11-14 November (Monday-Thursday): Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference, Abu Dhabi.

11-14 November (Monday-Thursday): ADIPEC Maritime and Logistics Exhibition and Conference, Abu Dhabi.

18-20 November (Monday-Wednesday): Fastmarkets Middle East Iron & Steel 2024, Dubai.

19-20 November (Tuesday-Wednesday): Dubai Future Forum.

20-22 November (Wednesday-Friday): Xpanse Abu Dhabi, Adnec Centre, Abu Dhabi

22-23 November (Friday-Saturday): Global Meet on Electronics & Electrical Engineering (GMEEE), Dubai.

23 November (Saturday): Wireless Festival Middle East, Etihad Park, Abu Dhabi.

26-27 November (Tuesday-Wednesday) Global Food Security Summit, Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi.

27-28 November (Wednesday-Thursday): RAK Energy Summit, Al Hamra International Exhibition and Conference Centre, Ras Al Khaimah.

Signposted to happen ahead of ADIPEC:

Changemakers Majlis, Abu Dhabi.

DECEMBER

2-3 December (Monday-Tuesday): National Day, public holiday.

5-8 December (Thursday-Sunday): Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit.

8-12 December (Sunday-Thursday): International Desalination and Reuse Association World Congress, Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi.

9-10 December (Saturday-Sunday): The Bitcoin Mena Conference, Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi.

9-12 December (Saturday-Thursday): Abu Dhabi Finance Week, Abu Dhabi.

10-12 December (Tuesday-Thursday): Middle East Business Aviation, Dubai World Central.

10-12 December (Tuesday-Thursday): Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA), Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

10-12 December (Tuesday-Thursday): The Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association Show, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai.

11-13 December (Friday-Sunday): European-Arab Medical Congress, Abu Dhabi.

Signposted to happen sometime in December:

UAE-China Summit, Abu Dhabi.

JANUARY 2025

1 January (Wednesday): ADGM to slash licensing fees for retail and non-financial firms, and hike fees for finance firms.

14-16 January (Tuesday-Thursday): World Energy Summit, Abu Dhabi.

FEBRUARY 2025

24-25 February (Monday-Tuesday): 3rd World Passenger Experience Forum, Dubai.

24-26 February (Monday-Wednesday): Connecting Hydrogen MENA, Dubai.

APRIL 2025

16-17 April: Global Ports Forum, Dubai.

MAY 2025

26-28 May (Monday-Wednesday): Arab Media Summit, World Trade Centre, Dubai.

OCTOBER 2025

27-29 October (Monday-Wednesday): Asia Pacific Cities Summit, Dubai Exhibition Centre.

Signposted to happen sometime before the end of the year:

Spinneys inaugurates three more stores in KSA

Signposted to happen in 2025:

6-11 April (Sunday-Friday): Geo-Spatial Week 2025, Dubai.
3-4 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): Make-A-Wish International’s Global Wish summit, Abu Dhabi.
TBD: The Middle East Electric Vehicle Show, Expo Center Sharjah.
TBD: e& will complete Adnoc’s private 5G network.

Signposted to happen sometime in the fall of 2025:

2025 Games of the Future, Dubai.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2026:

The UAE to host the Arab Competition Forum

Signposted to happen sometime in 2028:

Abu Dhabi to host the Chess Olympiad.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2029:

Dubai to host the International Conference on Computer Vision.

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