24 Fintech: Tabby CEO reveals expansion plans after acquisition of SAMA-licensed Tweeq

Special 24 Fintech: Tabby CEO reveals expansion plans after acquisition of SAMA-licensed Tweeq
Hosam Arab, CEO of Tabby, said that the acquisition of Tweeq is a strategic move to broaden the company’s offerings beyond its core BNPL services. AN Photo
Short Url
Updated 01 October 2024
Follow

24 Fintech: Tabby CEO reveals expansion plans after acquisition of SAMA-licensed Tweeq

24 Fintech: Tabby CEO reveals expansion plans after acquisition of SAMA-licensed Tweeq
  • Tabby revealed that Tweeq will continue to operate independently following the acquisition
  • Currently serving over 7 million customers in the Kingdom, Tabby sees the integration with its new purchase as a significant advantage for both companies

RIYADH: Saudi buy now, pay later firm Tabby has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire digital wallet provider Tweeq, marking a key development in the Kingdom’s fintech sector. 

Announced during the 24 Fintech event in Riyadh, Tabby revealed that Tweeq, licensed by the Saudi Central Bank, will continue to operate independently following the acquisition. 

In an interview with Arab News during the conference, Hosam Arab, CEO of Tabby, emphasized that the acquisition of Tweeq is a strategic move to broaden the company’s offerings beyond its core BNPL services. 

“We have really grown and seen extremely strong demand and appetite from the consumer for what we have offered. But we believe that the consumer needs are a lot broader and a lot wider,” he said. 

“Tweeq’s acquisition really helps us to make the next step in our journey of starting to offer more than just a buy now, pay later solution and really getting into the financial needs of our everyday consumer,” Arab added. 

Currently serving over 7 million customers in Saudi Arabia, Tabby sees the integration with its new purchase as a significant advantage for both companies. 

“Tweeq benefits from access to that platform, access to that customer base, which otherwise would have been very difficult to obtain access to,” Arab said. 

Founded in 2020, Tweeq is one of the earliest electronic money institutions licensed to operate in Saudi Arabia, offering customers an alternative to traditional banking through its digital spending account, which provides enhanced control and ease.

The acquisition of Tweeq by Tabby aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader objectives under the National Fintech Strategy, a key component of Vision 2030’s Financial Sector Development Program. 

This initiative targets the establishment of 525 fintech companies by 2030 to create 18,000 jobs and contribute $3.5 billion to the Saudi economy. 

Arab explained that while Tabby will continue to team up with other companies to manage savings and investments, the company’s platform will serve as the gateway for these services. 

“We would work with other licensed financial institutions in the markets as partners that are focused on these types of products and have expertise in these sorts of products to be able to offer our customers sustainably safe solutions. However, what we will be able to provide is that platform from which these services are going to be available,” he said. 

He added that Tabby is still considering integrating Tweeq and rebranding it under the BNPL giant. 

When asked about the impact of the acquisition on Tabby’s market cap, Arab replied: “I believe it’s less around the valuation of the business but more about the sustainability and the financial stability of Tabby as a business. And that’s what gave SAMA, the regulator, a lot more comfort in approving a transaction like this one.” 

He added that although the acquisition will not immediately impact the company’s valuation, the resulting benefits to consumers will be crucial in strengthening Tabby’s market position.

Arab confirmed that the company has reached profitability, an important milestone ahead of its planned initial public offering. 

He also expressed confidence in the company’s cash flow, indicating that Tabby is not actively seeking additional funding in the near future. 

Arab highlighted the significant growth potential within the Gulf, driven by a strong tradition of well-performing banks and a consumer base eager for financial innovation. 

He further clarified that the focus for Tabby is not on expanding beyond the region but on deepening its presence in existing markets. He added that these markets offer ample opportunities to enhance financial inclusion by expanding into additional services. 

As one of the region’s leading BNPL providers, Tabby relocated its headquarters from the UAE to Saudi Arabia in 2023. Shortly after, the firm secured over $200 million in funding, achieving unicorn status.


World Bank looking to free up emergency funds for Lebanon

World Bank looking to free up emergency funds for Lebanon
Updated 07 October 2024
Follow

World Bank looking to free up emergency funds for Lebanon

World Bank looking to free up emergency funds for Lebanon

WASHINGTON: The World Bank is looking to free up emergency funds for Lebanon, potentially including up to $100 million through the use of special clauses in existing loan deals, its managing director of operations told Reuters.

The Washington-based development lender currently has $1.65 billion in loans to the country including a $250 million loan approved this week to help connect dispersed renewable energy projects in the country.

Amid fighting across southern Lebanon, the bank was currently discussing ways in which it could help support the economy, including through the use of so-called Contingent Emergency Response Component clauses.

“We can use our existing portfolio and free up some money for really critical, short-term liquidity needs,” Anna Bjerde said.

CERCs are present in around 600 of the bank’s existing projects, globally, and allow it to redirect funds that have yet to be disbursed, if requested to by a government, for example after a health or natural disaster, or during conflict.

Lebanon has yet to make such a request, Bjerde said.

After a year of exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel mostly limited to the frontier region, the conflict has significantly escalated in Lebanon.

Lebanon’s government could choose to use an existing social protection program that was put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic that allows for financial support to be sent to individuals, Bjerde said.

“It has the benefit of being totally digital so you can reach people, plus it can be verified a bit... so we will also probably use that to top up the social safety net for those that are particularly affected.”

Up to 1 million people have been internally displaced in the country, she added: “So it’s important we focus on that.”

Lebanon’s Finance Ministry and Economy Ministry did not immediately respond when asked for comment.


PIF takes 40% stake in Selfridges in new partnership with Central Group

PIF takes 40% stake in Selfridges in new partnership with Central Group
Updated 07 October 2024
Follow

PIF takes 40% stake in Selfridges in new partnership with Central Group

PIF takes 40% stake in Selfridges in new partnership with Central Group

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund on Monday announced a strategic partnership with Central Group, a leading conglomerate in retail, real estate, and hospitality.

Under this partnership, PIF will acquire a 40 percent stake in both the operating and property companies of Selfridges Group, while Central Group will retain the remaining 60 percent. The agreement involves new investments from both parties aimed at enhancing Selfridges Group’s market position and supporting future growth, according to a PIF statement.

Turqi Al-Nowaiser, deputy governor and head of the International Investments Division at PIF, commented on the collaboration: “We are excited to partner with Central Group in Selfridges Group, one of Europe’s most iconic luxury department stores. This transaction will enable Selfridges Group to strengthen its status as a premier retail destination.”

This partnership follows PIF’s binding agreement to fully acquire Signa Group’s interest in Selfridges Group and is subject to the usual regulatory approvals.

The alliance aligns with PIF’s strategy of investing in key sectors globally and is built on a shared vision to unlock additional value within Selfridges Group.

By leveraging PIF’s investment expertise and Central Group’s industry leadership, the partnership aims to accelerate Selfridges Group's growth, solidifying its role as a major player in the European luxury retail market.

Selfridges Group operates 18 premier luxury department stores across three countries, including Selfridges in the UK, De Bijenkorf in the Netherlands, and Brown Thomas and Arnotts in Ireland. Its flagship locations on London’s Oxford Street and Manchester’s Exchange Square are celebrated as cultural and retail landmarks.


Saudi Arabia adds 60 direct routes since launch of Air Connectivity Program

Saudi Arabia adds 60 direct routes since launch of Air Connectivity Program
Updated 07 October 2024
Follow

Saudi Arabia adds 60 direct routes since launch of Air Connectivity Program

Saudi Arabia adds 60 direct routes since launch of Air Connectivity Program

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has introduced 60 new direct air routes since the launch of its national Air Connectivity Program, according to Majid Khan, CEO of the initiative.

Launched in 2021, the program has played a crucial role in enhancing tourism by expanding the Kingdom’s air links with global destinations, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s status as a prominent aviation hub.

Khan emphasized the strategic advantage of Saudi Arabia’s geographical location, which allows access to Europe, Asia, and Africa within an eight-hour flight.

He shared these insights during an interview with the Saudi Press Agency at the Routes World 2024 Exhibition and Conference in Bahrain.

From January to October of this year, 12 new foreign airlines established direct routes to Saudi Arabia—a significant achievement compared to the global average of two to four new routes per country.

Khan noted that the Air Connectivity Program has successfully attracted various carriers while strengthening existing routes, contributing to a rise in inbound tourism.

Rashed Al-Shammari, deputy CEO of commercial affairs for the Air Connectivity Program, highlighted the importance of the Routes World 2024 event in bringing together global aviation leaders to discuss operations and expand air routes.

The program aims to showcase Saudi Arabia’s unique tourist attractions, including the Red Sea, AlUla, Riyadh, and Diriyah, all of which have received recognition from UNESCO.

Al-Shammari also revealed that the program has held over 100 scheduled meetings with international aviation stakeholders at the event, focusing on negotiating new routes and enhancing existing ones. The goal is to establish direct connections to over 250 destinations and attract more than 150 million tourists to the Kingdom by 2030.

Ali Masrahi, CEO of Cluster2, which manages 22 regional and international airports across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Taif, Tabuk, Arar, Jazan, and Al-Baha, reported significant growth in flights and passenger numbers last year, with increases ranging from 15 to 18 percent. Notably, the third quarter alone saw a 15 percent increase in flights and a 12 percent rise in passengers.


Closing Bell: Saudi TASI records 1.23% rise to close at 11,913

Closing Bell: Saudi TASI records 1.23% rise to close at 11,913
Updated 07 October 2024
Follow

Closing Bell: Saudi TASI records 1.23% rise to close at 11,913

Closing Bell: Saudi TASI records 1.23% rise to close at 11,913
  • MSCI Tadawul Index increased by 17.08 points, or 1.16%, to close at 1,492
  • Parallel market Nomu slipped, losing 6.79 points, or 0.03%, to close at 24,649.17

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index rose by 1.23 percent to reach 11,913.62 points on Monday mainly driven by a significant growth in Al Majed Oud Co.’s stock price alongside other top performers. 

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR7.02 billion ($1.87 billion), as 185 of the listed stocks advanced, while 45 retreated. 

The MSCI Tadawul Index increased by 17.08 points, or 1.16 percent, to close at 1,492.  

The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu slipped, losing 6.79 points, or 0.03 percent, to close at 24,649.17 points. This comes as 44 of the listed stocks advanced, while as many as 23 retreated. 

TASI also recorded one of the best intraday highs since June, reaching 1.5 percent growth. 

The index’s top performer, Al Majed Oud Co., saw a 30 percent increase in its share price to close at SR122.20, thanks to a strong financial performance during the first half of the year. 

The perfume manufacturer recorded SR513 million in sales, a 21 percent increase compared to the year before. The company also saw an 18.2 percent increase in net profit to reach SR119.5 million, according to a bourse filing. 

The firm attributed the growth in sales and net profit to a rise in the number of stores and the full presence of the Hajj season, unlike the same period of the previous year. 

Other top performers included Al-Baha Investment and Development Co. and Al-Omran Industrial Trading Co., with share prices rising by 10 percent to SR0.33 and 9.94 percent to SR39.25, respectively. 

Red Sea International Co. and Anaam International Holding Group also recorded positive trajectories today, with share prices rising by 9.88 percent to SR65.60 and 9.52 percent to SR1.38, respectively. 

Other Tadawul announcements include Almarai Co.’s acquisition of Hammoudeh Food Industries, a Jordanian dairy and cheese producer. 

Almarai Co. will acquire Hammoudeh through its subsidiary Teeba Investment for SR263 million, subject to adjustments. The move aims to strengthen Almarai’s presence in Jordan, aligning with its broader growth strategy of expanding within core markets. 

The acquisition will be financed through Almarai’s internal cash flows and remains contingent on meeting contractual conditions and receiving regulatory approvals in both Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

This transaction is expected to expand Almarai’s regional operations, enhance its product range, and leverage operational scale for increased growth and profitability. 

The Saudi dairy and cheese giant saw a 1.62 percent increase in its share price to close its Monday trading at SR56.50. 

Rasan Information Technology Co. has also announced a board recommendation to increase its capital from SR75.8 million to SR77.5 million by capitalizing retained earnings. 

This increase includes the issuance of 1.7 million ordinary shares allocated to an employee share program as part of a long-term incentive plan. 

The recommendation will be subject to approval by the upcoming Extraordinary General Assembly, the date of which will be announced after securing the required regulatory approvals. 

Rasan Information Technology Co. closed the day with a 5.17 percent increase in its share price to reach SR61. 


Saudi PIF’s Aseer Investment Co. inks deal with private sector to develop tourism project

Saudi PIF’s Aseer Investment Co. inks deal with private sector to develop tourism project
Updated 07 October 2024
Follow

Saudi PIF’s Aseer Investment Co. inks deal with private sector to develop tourism project

Saudi PIF’s Aseer Investment Co. inks deal with private sector to develop tourism project
  • Deal signed with Nimr Real Estate and the National Co. for Tourism, or Syahya, to propel the project
  • Partnership seeks to be model for multiple collaborations with private sector investors and create more regional job opportunities

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Abha city has secured a new investment partnership to boost tourism by developing culturally rich dining and retail experiences. 

The Public Investment Fund’s firm Aseer Investment Co. has signed the deal with Nimr Real Estate and the National Co. for Tourism, or Syahya, to propel the project, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

This aligns with the objectives of developing Abha, which will offer a range of benefits, including retail stores that reflect the cultural heritage of the Asir region. 

The partnership also seeks to be a model for multiple collaborations with private sector investors and create more regional job opportunities. 

Investments in the region are expected to create between 14,000 and 18,000 job prospects and contribute to up to 6 percent of the non-oil gross domestic product within 10 years, as outlined by the CEO of AIC, Osama Al-Othman, in February. 

Under the National Tourism Strategy, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030 and increase the sector’s contribution to the nation’s GDP from 6 percent to 10 percent.

The latest agreement seeks to empower the local community and develop and diversify the regional economy in line with PIF’s strategy. 

Speaking during a press conference on the Kingdom’s tourism plans that was held in July in Asir, Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the region enjoys moderate weather during the summer season and low temperatures compared to most cities in the world.

Visitors can enjoy various attractions, historic villages, local produce farms, delicious cuisine, and renowned locations set to provide rich cultural experiences, the minister said at the time.

Al-Khateeb said there is a significant demand and focus on the hospitality sector in the region and there are now 10 projects funded by the Tourism Development Fund, with an investment size of approximately SR1 billion ($266 million).

In February, during PIF’s second Private Sector Forum, Prince Turki bin Talal, chairman of AIC, unveiled the company’s ambitious plans as it embarked on its operational journey to make the area the number one tourist destination in the Kingdom.

Earlier this month, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism said the country achieved an 8.2 percent growth in spending by foreign visitors during the first half of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. 

Total expenditures amounted to about SR92.6 billion, while the Kingdom posted a travel account surplus of around SR41.6 billion, the Saudi Press Agency reported at the time. 

The increase in spending by visitors to Saudi Arabia is part of significant developments in the tourism sector.

The Kingdom also topped the list of G20 countries in terms of growth in the number of international visitors and an increase in global tourism revenues during the first seven months of the year, compared to the same period in 2019, according to the UN World Tourism Organization.

This confirmed the effectiveness of the efforts made by the tourism system to achieve global leadership for the sector by applying best practices in travel and hospitality development, improving services and products, and continuous cooperation with all government entities.