Banking, fintech, funds, capital markets and cross-border investment
United Arab Emirates stock markets ended mixed on Friday as regional tensions eased following remarks from US President Donald Trump regarding Iran. Dubai's benchmark index broke a three-session decline to close 0.3% higher, driven by gains in Emirates NBD and Emaar Properties. Abu Dhabi's index finished lower, pressured by drops in basic materials, telecoms, utilities, and First Abu Dhabi Bank.
The UAE Ministry of Finance has issued Ministerial Decision No. 168 of 2026, transitioning the country's electronic invoicing regime from a pre-approval process to direct accreditation. The new regulations took effect retroactively on October 1, 2026, granting previously approved providers a 30-day compliance window. Providers may continue utilizing third-party Peppol solutions but remain directly responsible for regulatory compliance.
Global asset management firm Capital Group has secured a financial services licence from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Abu Dhabi Global Market. The licence authorizes the firm to conduct regulated investment management, trading, and fund distribution within the financial free zone. According to ADGM, asset managers setting up in the hub during the first half of 2026 collectively managed over $2.1 trillion.
Qatar National Bank has secured a $2.5 billion, five-year syndicated loan facility following strong demand from international and regional lenders. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and other multinational institutions served as mandated lead arrangers and bookrunners.
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