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Industry News

Stablecoins Reshape Cross-Border Settlement Across Middle East-Asia Financial Corridor

Financial institutions and payment networks are increasingly testing stablecoins to streamline cross-border payments and corporate treasury operations across the Middle East and Asia. Speakers at the FAB Middle East-Asia Summit in Singapore highlighted that early digital-asset regulations in the UAE and Singapore provide strong testing grounds for connecting regional financial systems. Industry leaders noted that digital currencies are evolving alongside conventional banks rather than replacing traditional financial infrastructure.

Industry News

Dubai Gold Prices Set to End Week Lower on Rate Hike Concerns

Dubai gold prices were on track to finish the week lower as elevated energy prices and inflation concerns fuelled expectations of another US Federal Reserve rate hike. In the UAE, 24-karat gold held at Dh514.25 per gram on Friday, representing a Dh40 drop over the past 28 days. Analysts noted that resilient Chinese demand and safe-haven buying continue to provide underlying support for the metal.

Industry News

Oil Prices Rise Above $105 as U.S.-Iran Tensions Threaten Shipping Routes

Brent crude climbed back over $105 a barrel amid warnings of expanding conflict between the United States and Iran. Maritime risks mounted following a fatal commercial ship strike in the Strait of Hormuz and threats to Red Sea energy routes. Diplomatic discussions during the United Nations General Assembly have produced little sign of a peace deal.

China–UAE News

UAE Leads Gulf in EV Readiness While China Tops Global Index, Report Shows

Arthur D. Little's 2026 Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index ranks the UAE 22nd globally and first in the Gulf with a score of 53. China ranked first worldwide with a score of 106, having achieved vehicle parity alongside Norway. The report found that ecosystem integration and public charging infrastructure are now defining global EV adoption competitiveness.