Latest news with #financialinnovation
Zawya
22-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa Finance Corporation wins $255mln green loan backed by UAE banks
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent's leading infrastructure solutions provider, has secured an inaugural Sustainability-Linked Term Loan Facility, marking a significant milestone in the corporation's innovative funding strategy and deepening its financial ties with the UAE. The AED937.50 million ($255 million) facility reflects AFC's commitment to use financial innovation tools to optimise funding for transformative infrastructure, AFC said. The loan facility was anchored by a syndicate of prominent UAE-based financial institutions. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Emirates NBD Capital Limited, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Mashreqbank, and the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah acted as Initial Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners (IMLABs). Mashreqbank additionally served as Global Coordinator and Documentation Agent, while First Abu Dhabi Bank acted as Sustainability Coordinator and Emirates NBD Bank acted as the Facility Agent. Along with further expanding AFC's geographical funding base, the transaction aligns future borrowing costs with measurable environmental outcomes through predefined Sustainability Performance Targets (SPTs), AFC said. The structure allows AFC to benefit from reduced loan costs upon achieving key sustainability targets, signaling to investors and stakeholders the importance of environmental responsibility to its infrastructure investment mandate. 'This facility represents a key milestone in AFC's journey,' said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member & Head, Financial Services, AFC. 'By tapping the UAE Dirham market and embedding sustainability performance into our funding terms, we are not only diversifying our funding sources but also aligning our financing strategy with our mission to catalyse infrastructure-driven economic growth and industrial development across Africa. This transaction is a testament to the strength of our partnerships in the UAE and our continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.' This facility builds on AFC's strong momentum in diversified and sustainable capital raising. Following a record $1.16 billion syndicated loan in 2024, AFC debuted a $500 million hybrid capital issuance and a $400 million Murabaha facility in 2025. The corporation also expanded its climate finance instruments - having issued a CHF150 million Green Bond in 2020, and in 2024, pioneering Green Shares with a $30 million equity investment from the African Development Bank. These efforts complement AFC's strategic stake in Lekela Power, through Infinity, forming Africa's largest renewable energy platform with over 1 GW of clean power capacity, reaching 1.2 million homes and avoiding 7.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). - TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa Finance Corporation Secures Inaugural AED 937.5 Million Sustainability-Linked Loan Backed by United Arab Emirates (UAE) Banks
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) ( the continent's leading infrastructure solutions provider, has secured an inaugural Sustainability-Linked Term Loan Facility, marking a significant milestone in the Corporation's innovative funding strategy and deepening its financial ties with the UAE. The AED 937.50 million (US$255 million) facility reflects AFC's commitment to use financial innovation tools to optimise funding for transformative infrastructure. Along with further expanding AFC's geographical funding base, the transaction aligns future borrowing costs with measurable environmental outcomes through predefined Sustainability Performance Targets (SPTs). The structure allows AFC to benefit from reduced loan costs upon achieving key sustainability targets, signaling to investors and stakeholders the importance of environmental responsibility to its infrastructure investment mandate. The loan facility was anchored by a syndicate of prominent UAE-based financial institutions. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC, Emirates NBD Capital Limited, First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC, Mashreqbank PSC, and the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C.) acted as Initial Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners (IMLABs). Mashreqbank PSC additionally served as Global Coordinator and Documentation Agent, while First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC acted as Sustainability Coordinator and Emirates NBD Bank (P.J.S.C.) acted as the Facility Agent. 'This facility represents a key milestone in AFC's journey,' said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member&Head, Financial Services, AFC. 'By tapping the UAE Dirham market and embedding sustainability performance into our funding terms, we are not only diversifying our funding sources but also aligning our financing strategy with our mission to catalyse infrastructure-driven economic growth and industrial development across Africa. This transaction is a testament to the strength of our partnerships in the UAE and our continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.' This facility builds on AFC's strong momentum in diversified and sustainable capital raising. Following a record US$1.16 billion syndicated loan in 2024, AFC debuted a US$500 million hybrid capital issuance and a US$400 million Murabaha facility in 2025. The Corporation also expanded its climate finance instruments - having issued a CHF150 million Green Bond in 2020, and in 2024, pioneering Green Shares with a US$30 million equity investment from the African Development Bank. These efforts complement AFC's strategic stake in Lekela Power, through Infinity, forming Africa's largest renewable energy platform with over 1 GW of clean power capacity, reaching 1.2 million homes and avoiding 7.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). Media Enquiries: Yewande Thorpe Communications Africa Finance Corporation Mobile: +234 1 279 9654 Email: About AFC: AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC's approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa's infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth. Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait's CMA launches nation's first securities-based crowdfunding service
KUWAIT CITY - In a landmark move aimed at advancing financial innovation, Kuwait's Capital Markets Authority (CMA) on Sunday announced the official launch of the country's first securities-based crowdfunding service, marking a significant step toward diversifying investment tools and promoting financial inclusion. The CMA confirmed in a press statement that Al-Mawazi Capital has become the first company registered in its securities-based financial technology services registry, officially authorized to provide this pioneering platform service. According to the statement, the launch aligns with the CMA's broader strategic objectives to implement international best practices, expand capital markets, and introduce modern financial technologies that had previously not existed in Kuwait. The securities-based crowdfunding model allows businesses—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—to raise funds from the general public by offering capital shares or issuing securities via a licensed digital platform registered with the CMA. This innovative service is designed to strengthen Kuwait's financial technology (fintech) sector and bolster financial inclusion by creating alternative financing channels beyond traditional methods. It provides new investment opportunities for retail investors while supporting entrepreneurs and project owners seeking non-traditional capital sources. The CMA noted that the registered crowdfunding platform acts as a regulated digital marketplace, where issuers can present funding opportunities and investors can engage directly in securities transactions tied to those crowdfunding offerings. In addition to enhancing cash flow in the market, the platform is expected to attract a wide segment of the population interested in exploring new investment avenues, while also ensuring that entities providing such services meet regulatory standards and that investor rights are protected. The CMA emphasized the growing significance of financial technologies, describing the sector as 'rapidly evolving,' with increasing adoption across both individual and institutional users. The Authority concluded by reaffirming its commitment to developing Kuwait's capital markets and fostering innovation in financial services through secure, inclusive, and well-regulated platforms.
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi Judiciary adopts digital currency for judicial fees in landmark partnership with Al Maryah Bank
In a pioneering move for the region, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has signed a strategic partnership agreement with local financial institution Al Maryah Bank to introduce the use of digital currency for the payment of judicial and legal service fees. This marks a significant leap toward digitising government services and enhancing user experience through innovative financial solutions. Under the agreement, ADJD becomes the first government entity in the Middle East to officially accept the AE Coin as a digital payment method for court-related transactions. The initiative is a milestone in the UAE's journey toward a fully integrated digital economy and sets the stage for a new era in digital government payments. Commenting on the development, His Excellency Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, stated that the agreement forms part of the department's broader development strategy. He emphasised that the move aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, Chairman of ADJD, to build a modern and innovative judicial system that embraces rapid digital transformation to ensure swift justice and enhance Abu Dhabi's global competitiveness. 'This partnership reflects our commitment to continuously modernise the judicial ecosystem and legal services. By diversifying smart payment options and embracing digital currency, we are supporting institutional cooperation and integrating the judicial and financial sectors through advanced technology,' said H.E. Al Abri. He added that the department is keen on building strategic partnerships with leading banking institutions to maximise the use of digital capabilities and fintech innovations in support of ADJD's vision for a progressive and responsive legal environment. From the banking sector's side, Omar Al Zaabi, Vice Chairman of Al Maryah Bank, commented: 'This partnership embodies our mission to foster banking innovation and reinforce the UAE's leadership in digital financial services. By enabling judicial payments via AE Coin, we are not only streamlining access to government services but also setting a benchmark for how technology can serve the public good in a secure and future-ready manner.' Obaid Al Kaabi, Board Member of Al Maryah Bank, added: 'We are proud to be part of this transformative achievement that enhances trust, transparency, and accessibility in public services. Integrating AE Coin within a major institution like ADJD underscores our commitment to accelerating digital transformation and contributing to a more inclusive financial future.' Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Bank, remarked: 'We take pride in supporting the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department in realising this forward-looking initiative. It's not merely a technological step; it's about delivering advanced, secure financial experiences that reflect the UAE's values and future vision.' Ramez Rafiq, General Manager of IED Stablecoin—the firm behind AE Coin—stated: 'AE Coin was developed to be a secure, efficient, and regulatory-compliant digital payment solution tailored for the UAE. Its adoption by such a prominent government entity marks a pivotal moment for us and the region's evolving digital finance landscape. This collaboration reflects the leadership's trust in homegrown innovation and strengthens AE Coin's role in building the country's financial digital infrastructure.' The implementation of AE Coin in judicial payments sets a regional precedent for integrating digital currencies into government services. It reinforces the UAE's position at the forefront of public-sector financial innovation and paves the way for AE Coin to be adopted across other government platforms and institutions, enabling faster, simpler, and more transparent services for citizens, residents, and businesses. With this partnership now in effect, users can pay for a wide range of judicial services using AE Coin—a stablecoin regulated by the UAE Central Bank—via the AEC Wallet. This solution offers a secure, fully digital, and rapid alternative to traditional payment methods, significantly improving service accessibility and operational efficiency in the justice sector.
Gulf Business
18-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Dubai Financial Services Authority's Charlotte Robins on how its Tokenisation Sandbox is gaining traction
Image: Supplied Charlotte Robins, MD of Policy and Legal at the Dubai Financial Services Authority ( In this interview, Robins discusses the models that stood out, how the initiative aligns with Dubai's D33 economic agenda, and how the DFSA is balancing innovation with robust regulation to position the DIFC as a top-four global financial hub. The Tokeni s ation Regulatory Sandbox attracted 96 expressions of interest from six jurisdictions. What does this level of global interest tell you about the future of tokeni s ation and DFSA's regulatory positioning? The global interest in our Tokenisation Regulatory Sandbox signals the importance of, and growing appetite for, responsible innovation, and recognises the appeal of DFSA's regulatory approach to innovation. As a regulator, our role is to support innovation and its positive contribution to the financial markets in ways that maintain market integrity and protect the public interest within the DIFC. By working closely with local and global firms through the sandbox, we are encouraging responsible innovation and helping to ensure that new ideas are tested against regulatory expectations. What were some of the most promising or innovative tokenisation models proposed by applicants? Were there any particular sectors — like sukuk or property funds — that stood out? The expression of interest process provided the DFSA with valuable insight into the diversity and maturity of tokenisation models being developed globally . The DFSA received nearly 100 responses – including proposals to tokenise financial assets and instruments, such as bonds (including Islamic bonds, or sukuk), units in a fund (including money market funds and property funds), and the trading and safe custody of those assets – reflecting the broad potential of tokenisation across the financial ecosystem. The initiative attracted strong interest from both established financial institutions wishing to explore tokenisation use cases and innovative start-ups looking to scale breakthrough digital asset solutions in a regulated environment. Applications were received from within the UAE and from other regions such as the UK, EU, Canada, Singapore and Hong Kon . Can you walk us through the evaluation process? What key factors determined whether a firm was invited into the Innovation Testing Licence programme versus granted full authorisation? As a brief recap, the e xpression of interest (EOI) period ran from March– April this year. Thereafter we conducted an initial assessment of the submissions received and whether the tokeni s ation activities fall within our regulatory perimeter of financial services activities that can be conducted in the DIFC. Following these assessments, the DFSA had discussions with a majority of the applicants and shortlisted those that were sufficiently clear on their business model , ready to do business in and from the DIFC and ha d a level of familiarity with DFSA rules, and therefore ready to progress to the next stage. In June, a number of firms were then invited to prepare their applications, either for the Innovation Testing Licence programme (ITL), which is our regulatory sandbox , or where the business model is sufficiently matured and tested in other markets, for a full licen c e . The DFSA assesses the firms' readiness to apply for the Tokenisation S andbox based on the ITL eligibility criteria that we have in place, such as : •S ufficiency of resources (financial and operational) to operationali s e • R eadiness to test its innovative products and services • C ommitment to deploy products and services in the DIFC and broader UAE during and after the sandbox testing period How does the DFSA strike a balance between enabling financial innovation and ensuring market integrity, particularly with emerging technologies like tokenisation ? At the DFSA, we recognise that robust, balanced, and proportionate regulatory frameworks have a key role to play in creating an environment in which innovative firms can thrive. On this basis, we create, and tailor our regulatory regimes appropriately and don't seek to impose unnecessary regulatory burden, and inadvertently stifle innovation. To that end, we always publicly consult on any changes to our rulebook to ensure that our approach to regulation: Is proportionate and risk-based enough to foster beneficial innovation, yet robust enough to avoid a race to the bottom and a loss in trust and confidence; Evolves and adapts in line with market developments, adopting the principle of 'same activity, same risk, same regulatory outcome'; and Focuses on regulatory outcomes that meet the needs of local markets rather than adopting a 'one-size-fits-all' regulatory approach. Additionally, on an ongoing basis we proactively engage with market participants, their advisors, and industry bodies, for example, to ascertain how our regulatory regime can be enhanced and improved e.g., via industry webinars, roundtables, outreaches, and consultation. In such an area where rapid change appears to be a permanent feature of the environment within which these markets operate, we see both collaboration and industry engagement as being essential. From investment tokens to stablecoin approvals, the DFSA has taken progressive steps in digital asset regulation. How will insights from this sandbox phase inform future regulatory developments? Insights from our sandbox – the Innovation Testing License , will allow us to observe how innovative technologies perform in a controlled environment. This will enable us to identify potential risks, benefits and gaps in existing regulation, which will in turn lead to more informed balanced, and adaptive policymaking that supports innovation while protecting consumers. W e are continuously developing our models and policies to ensure that they don't stifle growth whilst ensuring investor protection and responsible innovation. In May 2025, we published an explainer guide to clarify the process of apply ing to the ITL sandbox so that we can continue to empower innovators with the knowledge they need to engage with the DFSA and bring transformative financial services to market in the DIFC. We're seeing more interest in innovation / crypto – firms coming to us and we collaborate with other regulatory standard-setter via groups such as the Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN) to ensure that we share-knowledge and best practices. As a regulator, it's important that we are balance growth and innovation whilst continuing to protect our stakeholders, investors and the market. In terms of what we are seeing in the innovation space – Tokenisation is probably at the top of the list. How does the Tokenisation Regulatory Sandbox align with Dubai's D33 economic agenda? In your view, what role will tokenisation play in helping DIFC become one of the world's top four financial hubs? The DFSA's regulatory ITL Sandbox aligns with Dubai's D33 economic agenda by enabling safe experimentation with tokeni s ed and innovative financial products – positioning the DIFC at the forefront of FinTech innovation. As Dubai aims to become one of the world's leading financial hubs, our sandbox serves as a practical mechanism for translating policy into real-world outcomes. Attracting global players while shaping regulation which is ready for the future. By embedding tokenisation within a transparent framework, we are not only fostering innovation, but setting global standards , cementing Dubai as a leading jurisdiction for digital finance. DFSA has been opening its regulatory sandbox to non-traditional financial institutions and tech startups. What strategies are you deploying to ensure diverse participation—and how is that shaping your regulatory toolkit? To ensure diverse participation of non-traditional financial institutions (NBFIs) and tech start-ups in the ITL programme , DFSA implements a combination of outreach, design flexibility, incentivi s ation and support mechanisms. Some o f the key strategies implemented by the DFSA include : • I ntroducing themed sandbox such as the T okenisation S andbox launched earlier this year ; • A llowing fintechs to participate in the sandbox with proportionate regulatory re quirements including waivers and modi fications from re gulations during the testing period ; • D esigning streamlined and transpa rent application process with clear timelines and expectations ; • P roviding regulatory guidance through closed supervision to enable participants' success in the programme . Initiatives such as the DFSA's Tokenisation Regulatory Sandbox underscores the DFSA's commitment to enable innovation in a way that is responsible, informed, and aligned with global regulatory best practice – supporting the DIFC's position as a leading hub for digital finance, and aligning with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33, which aims to make Dubai one of the world's top four global financial hubs by 2033 . As previously mentioned, our sandbox , will allow us to observe how innovative technologies perform in a controlled environmen t which will in turn enable us to identify potential risks, benefits and gaps in existing regulation – resulting to more informed balanced, and adaptive rulemaking . Read:
