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Finance & Investment

Banking, fintech, funds, capital markets and cross-border investment

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Middle East Council on Global Affairs

Think Tank Analyzes Future of GCC Dollar Pegs Amid Growing China Trade

A policy paper by the Middle East Council on Global Affairs examines the GCC currency pegs to the US dollar in light of offshore banking dynamics and increasing trade with China. The research argues that while growing commerce with China weakens the trade rationale for the dollar peg, offshore dollar bank funding keeps oil invoicing tied to the US currency. The author recommends coordinating currency policy across all six GCC states and formalizing liquidity assurances for Bahrain and Oman.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Gulf Business

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Rank Among Top 10 Global Next-Generation Wealth Hubs

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have ranked among the world's top 10 locations for attracting and retaining high-net-worth individuals under 40, according to property consultancy Savills. The two UAE cities were among only four locations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa to secure top-10 positions. Savills evaluated more than 100 destinations based on business connectivity, taxation, wealth clusters, and lifestyle factors.

Industry News
Source: Arabian Business

UAE Online Payments Reach 55% Domestic Share as App Delivery Surges

Online and in-app payments accounted for 55% of domestic Visa payment volume in the UAE in 2026, up from 35% in 2019, according to Visa Business and Economic Insights. Payment card activity on food delivery applications climbed from approximately 2% in 2018 to nearly 30% in 2026, driven primarily by everyday spenders. In addition, 25.7% of active UAE Visa cards logged at least 10 digital transactions monthly, compared to 4.5% in 2018.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Dentons

Dentons Outlines Contractual Safeguards for Managing Sanctions and AML Risks in UAE

Global law firm Dentons published legal analysis warning companies that standard compliance language stating an obligation to comply with applicable laws is often insufficient to address changing sanctions and financial crime risks. The firm highlighted risks faced by UAE entities when counterparties become subject to foreign sanctions regimes not mirrored in local law. Dentons recommended drafting explicit contractual rights permitting information audits, performance suspensions, and contract terminations.

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