Circle of Games has launched in MENA out of UAE

Circle of Games has launched in MENA out of UAE

Circle of Games (COG), the blockchain enabled Web3 global multi-gaming platform backed by Nazara, has launched in the MENA region at the renowned Global Game Show held at the Grand Hyatt Exhibition Centre in Dubai.

The launch event drew an audience of industry pioneers, gamers, and Web3 enthusiasts, with Yat Siu, Chairman of Animoca Brands, as the distinguished chief guest. His keynote address celebrated COG’s innovative integration of casual gaming with blockchain technology, positioning it as a leader in the Web3 gaming ecosystem.

The event highlighted COG’s robust portfolio of games, including globally popular titles like Ludo, Fruit Slash, Bubble Shooter, Chess, and 8-Ball Pool. With six games already live and an ambitious roadmap to surpass ten titles by Q1 2025, COG is set to become the preferred destination for casual gamers worldwide.

The launch underscored COG’s strategic collaborations with key global corporations and leading strategic partners. These alliances offer access to over 500 million users across 50+ countries, strengthening the company’s competitive edge. By drawing users from an established ecosystem, COG is accelerating its growth and establishing a foundation for long-term success.

Attendees witnessed live demonstrations of COG’s state-of-the-art features, including seamless user experiences, multi-chain integrations, and engaging game mechanics. With over 500,000 registered users so far and ambitious goals to reach 25 million users by the end of 2025 and 100 million users by the end of 2027 worldwide, COG is reshaping the future of casual gaming in the Web3 era.

“Today marks a significant milestone for Circle of Games as we expand into the MENA region. With our robust ecosystem, strategic partnerships, and an experienced team, we are committed to delivering an unparalleled gaming experience for users worldwide,” said Rabilal Thapa, CEO/Co-Founder of Circle of Games, during the event.

Circle of Games, funded by Nazara, has outlined an ambitious regional expansion strategy, with launches slated for the UAE in Q4 2024, followed by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain in Q1 2025, and Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco in Q2 2025. With projections to achieve 7.5 million users by 2025, 18 million by 2026, and 25 million by 2027, COG is poised to dominate the Web3 gaming landscape in the region.

Circle of Games receives investments from THA and Nazara

In April of 2024, Circle of Games (COG), raised $1 million in equity funding from strategic investors Nazara Technologies FZ LLC, (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Nazara Technologies Limited) and The Hashgraph Association, the Swiss-based organization at the forefront of global digital enablement for Hedera.

At the time, COG noted that it intended to use this funding to fast-track its go-to-market strategy, improve platform capabilities, and widen its international presence in the US, EU, Middle East, Africa, and Asia in 2024.

COG has implemented multi-chain technology, with Hedera being the primary mainnet where the majority of on-chain transactions occur, and is empowering players with full ownership and control over their in-game assets and tokens.

Gaming in MENA region

Gaming in the MENA region and especially in the UAE has become a big market. According to recent reports, the gaming market value in the MENA region is expected to reach $10 billion by 2027. This surge is driven by the growing number of gamers and the rising popularity of mobile games.

Saudi Arabia is more than just participating in the global gaming arena. As the 19th largest gaming market in the world, with 89% of its population engaged in gaming, including 42% women and 45% aged 21-35—the kingdom is redefining what it means to be a player in this dominating entertainment frontier.

Aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to develop 30 competitive games and establish itself as a global gaming hub by 2030. The kingdom is backing this ambition with a bold $38 billion investment from the Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s Savvy Games Group, which is focused on acquiring publishers and nurturing local talent.

UAE is also becoming a fast mover by embracing the developing blockchain gaming sector. After a brief period of decline due to innovative and regulatory challenges, Web3 gaming has seen a revival in user engagement this year. In the third quarter, the sector reached 4.4 million daily active wallets. In the same period, blockchain games attracted more than $110 million in funding.

The UAE has positioned itself as a global leader in driving the blockchain gaming sector. Proactive policies and strategic investments are transforming the country into a central hub for Web3 gaming projects. The sector is expected to hit $1 billion in the UAE alone by 2025.

Recently The Beam Foundation launched Beam Ventures in Abu Dhabi, the first venture fund focused exclusively on Web3 gaming from ADGM. The $150 million gaming fund aims to accelerate promising founders and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s transformation into a global gaming hub.

UAE ADGM regulates first stablecoin issuance from Paxos

UAE ADGM regulates first stablecoin issuance from Paxos

Paxos International, a UAE-based affiliate of Paxos, announced the launch of Lift Dollar (USDL) – a yield-bearing stablecoin issued under regulatory supervision of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in UAE. The Lift dollar (USDL) stablecoin is now available to consumers in Argentina via distribution partners Ripio, Buenbit, Manteca and Plus Crypto. 

As per Paxos International press release, USDL is unmatched in the market as holders earn overnight yield from short-term, minimal-risk US government securities and cash equivalent assets held under the safe protection and custody requirements of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Under the FSRA’s license Paxos International is required to hold only high-quality liquid assets to back USDL – US dollar deposits, short duration US treasuries and cash equivalents. It is required to ensure that USDL will maintain 1:1 parity with the US dollar and consumers can redeem their tokens for fiat at all times. 

This reserve structure is like other Paxos-issued US dollar stablecoins that are backed 1:1. USDL is issued permissionlessly on Ethereum and pays yield programmatically on a daily basis to token holders.

According to the press release, USDL marks an important innovation in democratizing overnight yield by shifting interest earned on stablecoin reserve holdings directly to eligible end holders from the central issuer.

Using an Ethereum smart contract, USDL distributes the yield generated from its reserves to eligible wallet addresses daily without requiring any additional steps by the token holder.

Paxos will retain an issuer fee and pay out the remaining yield earned based on prevailing daily market conditions. Companies in permitted jurisdictions interested in enabling USDL on their platforms can onboard with Paxos International.

Ronak Daya, Head of Product of Paxos International, said, “Lift Dollar is the first stablecoin designed to benefit token holders. Token holders and distribution partners receive daily yield, through an Ethereum smart contract, with all the benefits of a regulated, trusted stablecoin platform. Paxos International has partnered with leaders Ripio, Buenbit, Manteca and Plus Crypto to ensure customers in Argentina are receiving tokens from safe and secure channels. Our targeted launch in this market will ensure millions of token holders will now have safe access to US dollars that enables them to not only save and transact, but also earn daily yield. We are pleased to work with these trusted platforms and look forward to growing our partnerships throughout the year.” 

Sebastián Serrano, CEO and co-founder of Ripio, commented: “The launch of USDL by Paxos represents another significant step in the commitment to offering users robust and reliable options in the world of cryptocurrencies. We are excited to list USDL on our app and continue to provide access to innovative financial tools that promote inclusion and economic freedom for all.” 

Federico Ogue, Chief Executive Officer of Buenbit, added: “We are very happy to partner with Paxos in the launch of USDL. Yield bearing stablecoins are the future of stablecoins as they share revenue generated with the end user. We are glad that Paxos was the first big stablecoin issuer to take this step forward as it is one of the most reputable companies in the field.”

Federico Goldberg, Co-Founder and CEO of Manteca, added: “The launch of USDL in Argentina with Paxos International, whose affiliate already provides services to giants like PayPal, MercadoPago and Nubank, is excellent news for retail customers, our corporate clients in Manteca and the local crypto ecosystem. The fact that USDL allows holders to seamlessly generate income is an incredible differential compared to other alternatives that currently exist. It’s like ‘putting dollars under the mattress’, but modern.” 

First Saudi Arabian Blockchain Layer 0 infrastructure launches for gaming

First Saudi Arabian Blockchain Layer 0 infrastructure launches for gaming

Throughput™ , the first Saudi Arabian engineered Layer 0 Blockchain/DLT infrastructure has been launched with the aim of reshaping the Web3 and gaming industry with state-of-the-art technological solutions to developers worldwide.

Throughput™ is led by Yasser Alobaidan, with co-founders Assad Dar of MoonGaming Studio and Alvin Reyes, former Chief Architect at Protocol Labs(Filecoin).

Throughput introduced “Ledger as a Service” , a game-changing approach in blockchain technology. A single process manages multiple ledgers across blockchains offering secure and efficient management.

As per the medium post, designed ground up, Throughput™ addresses game developers’ and players’ unique needs and challenges, setting the stage for creating the world’s most engaging and sophisticated games.

Throughput™, aims to offer a robust, scalable, and secure infrastructure that caters specifically to the dynamic requirements of modern gaming. Throughput offers gamers and developers blockchain technology that easily allows them to set up their networks. It also supports the management of multiple ledgers into a single system.

In addition it allows for the sharing of a portion of transaction fees with originating wallet service providers and applications, while incorporating quantum resistant cryptography to safeguard against future threats.

Throughput also adds that it enables gamers to secure loans with digital assets while maintaining ownership and facilitates in game economies with a focus on asset ownership and exchange.

Yasser Alobaidan, Co Founder of Throughput comments, “Throughput™ is more than just technology; it’s our commitment to transforming the gaming experience. By blending cutting-edge blockchain solutions with Saudi Arabia’s vibrant talent, we’re not just creating games. We’re setting the stage for the future of gaming globally. We’re excited to lead this journey and invite everyone to join us in this revolution,”

Plans are in place to establish a dedicated hub in Saudi Arabia to nurture game development, attracting the world’s top talent to collaborate and innovate, pushing Riyadh to the forefront of Web3 advancements.

UAE carbon management company launches blockchain and AI ESG platform

UAE carbon management company launches blockchain and AI ESG platform

ImpactGulf, a UAE based carbon management company, has launched an AI Blockchain enabled platform called G4Green, to bring transparency to the ESG (Environmental Sustainable Goals) space. The platform will enable large organizations as well as government agencies and global institutions to bring together their entire network of suppliers, partners, members or portfolio companies on the basis of ethical principles, onboard them in one go, monitor and drive their sustainability performance and implement incentive tools to accelerate their ESG journey.

As per the press release, the platform serves as an internal database and green navigator to help organizations map the ESG factors that are beyond their direct control, yet for which they are held accountable. With a complete view of their stakeholders’ green performance, organizations can easily engage their suppliers in green activities, enable them to set sustainability goals and upload their CSR, ESG and carbon accounting reports and accreditations, while companies new to green practices can use AI to help set their first sustainability goals.

As an enterprise solution, G4Green also assists in identifying sustainable products, services, partners and suppliers, as well as initiating green procurement and building a green supply chain.

Using AI to detect false sustainability claims from large organizations and their suppliers and partners, the platform also helps companies avoid greenwashing, including through scanning their own social media posts for sustainability claim violations before posting.

Commenting on the platform, Yassin Nasri, Founder & CEO of ImpactGulf, stated, “G4Green represents a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to driving positive environmental change and building capacities in the sustainability space. By providing organizations with the tools and resources to streamline their sustainability efforts, we aim to catalyze a broader shift towards greener business practices. Building and operating a sustainable business is not possible without engaging the entire supply chain.”

The platform provides an excellent foundation for green procurement, ESG risk assessment and sustainable stakeholder empowerment. It is built on the latest technological infrastructure, including the use of AI for data analysis and greenwashing avoidance, as well as blockchain technology for sustainability data traceability.

“Ultimately, the platform is about how key stakeholders in business and society can take their corporate community on an ESG journey, identifying the emissions hotspot within their value chain and minimizing the risk of dumping chemicals into the ocean anywhere in the world, or other unethical practices such as the employment of children by a supplier or partner. G4Green is the answer to all these key ESG risks,” concludes Yassin.

Vidunas Gedeikis, CTO at ImpactGulf, added: “Depending on individual needs, our platform is able to adapt to clients’ own ESG and partner engagement metrics, and integrate advanced technologies, including AI-driven data analytics and blockchain-enabled traceability, to ensure the integrity and reliability of sustainability initiatives. With the customization capabilities of G4Green, we are paving the way for a more transparent, interconnected approach to sustainability management.”

MintLayer to tokenize realestate assets in UAE

MintLayer to tokenize realestate assets in UAE

UAE based MintLayer, a layer 2 blockchain that utilizes Dynamic Slot Allocation (DSA) consensus merging Proof-Of-Stake and Bitcoin technologies to make decentralized financial markets attack-proof,  will be launching its mainnet on January 29th 2024 and is planning tokenize real-estate assets starting from Dubai UAE.

Already MintLayer has received investments from a substantial number of venture capitalists including some residing in the UAE such as Phoenix crypto VC, Sheesha Finance, Varys Capital and others.

Zaid Ismail Chief Operations officer at MintLayer, based out of Dubai UAE, on LinkedIn states,“ 90% of the world’s millionaires made their fortunes through real estate, but it’s highly inaccessible, illiquid, and complicated – that’s where MintLayer comes in! Starting with Dubai, we are on a mission to fractionalize real estate ownership one country at a time.”

In an interview on Bitcoin News, he discussed how tokenized real-world assets are an appealing portfolio for modern investors.

He told Bitcoin News that despite recently garnering much of the world’s attention, traditional exchange-traded funds (ETFs), including spot Bitcoin ETFs, are still inferior to tokenized real-world assets (RWA).

He added,” Tokenized RWAs also come with increased transparency, reduced costs, and direct ownership making them a more versatile and appealing choice for modern investors seeking portfolio diversification.”

He notes in the interview that traditional finance institutions are also starting to get involved in tokenized RWAs. They are testing the waters and will need to work with regulators to adapt existing regulations to the changing landscape.

Ismail emphasizes that with MintLayer the process is simplified, reducing hassles for asset owners. With MintLayer, tokenization is embedded and simple, so non-technical users can issue tokens easily without having to use deployment contracts like on Ethereum.

Additionally, Mintlayer Institutional is building a SaaS platform for institutional clients that will help to simplify the process of issuing, monitoring and dealing with all the compliance aspects required for tokenization.

The MintLayer network, and its UTXO infrastructure, allows batching multiple transactions into a single one, saving space and lowering the fees. Furthermore, their HTLC smart contract embedded in MintLayer will allow atomic swaps and lightning network integration, allowing a way to route transactions on a peer-to-peer network that doesn’t require it to be permanently saved forever on the blockchain.

Mintlayer has a  low node requirements are pivotal in fostering a more inclusive and decentralized network allowing anyone with a standard PC, or even a Raspberry Pi, can run a node is a testament to the democratization of blockchain technology.

UAE decentralized Ecommerce platform to incorporate AI and Web3 Technology

UAE decentralized Ecommerce platform to incorporate AI and Web3 Technology

UAE decentralized ecommerce platform, Ayshei ( Aya Shee in Arabic), backed by Medad Holding will be launching in early 2024 as the first fully enabled Web3 AI marketplace.

Ayshei will incorporate cutting-edge features such as online auctions, virtual stores, delivery services, and AI technology, among other distinctive solutions as part of its decentralized ecommerce platform.

CEO of Ayshei, Mohammed Shaiba Al Mazrouei, emphasized that Ayshei.com represents more than just a marketplace—it signifies the dawn of a new era for online commerce in the UAE. Al Mazrouei stated that the platform empowers businesses, fosters innovation, and creates a thriving community. As the first platform to provide full transparency on fee structures and onboarding processes, Ayshei invites users to become early adopters and join the Ayshei Community, a space where limitless opportunities await.

Ayshei is positioning itself as a market enabler for SMEs, startups, and home businesses. The platform will offer an all-in-one virtual store, providing essential services such as a trade license, bank account, payment gateway, logistics (including end-to-end self-storage), and delivery. This approach aims to empower businesses to establish and flourish in the digital realm.

Being a decentralized platform leveraging web3 technology, Ayshei prioritizes user security and transparency. The platform implements multiple security measures, including profile verification through Emirates ID, UAE Pass integration, high-value product authentications, advanced transaction monitoring, property and car inspections.

The platform will offer intelligent solutions in real estate, auctions, and other domains.

UAE crypto custodian Changer waives fees at its launch

UAE crypto custodian Changer waives fees at its launch

On its launch day, UAE based Changer, a crypto custodian is waiving custody fees for its premium wallet clients. Changer is providing individuals globally with a reliable, convenient, and accessible wallet to safeguard and manage their digital assets.

This comes after Changer received its license from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) allowing it to safe custody provisions, technology governance, and other system controls.

Changer’s launch of custody services for the safe storage of virtual assets comes in line with an increasing demand for independent custody and fund administration of digital assets from asset managers and asset owners, as this market continues to evolve.

Changer’s premium wallet and offerings are unique to the market being the only regionally built, independent custody provider. Changer’s premium wallet brings to the market a transparent, subscription-style monthly service for users based on the assets held under custody.

As Changer ramps up its operations, it is currently waiving custody fees for early adopters, which is planned to come into effect in Q1 2024.

Cryptocurrency investors from all over the world can easily open an account via the user-friendly Changer mobile application that can be downloaded from the App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery, and once verified, can use it to store their digital assets.

Changer is planning to introduce additional services in early Q1 2024 which will allow its users to convert their virtual assets into fiat currencies and hold those in escrow (client-money account) arrangements with a strategic bank partner which is yet to be disclosed.

Nadeem Ladki, Senior Executive Officer of Changer, commented on the launch: “We are happy to witness the successful and global launch of Changer.ae, as the region’s first locally built, independent virtual asset custody provider catering to individuals. For widespread adoption of digital assets, users need a safe, trusted counterpart; and we are committed to investing in the infrastructure and abiding by the regulations necessary to provide that peace of mind to our global users to be a leader in this space. We are proud to launch Changer.ae in the UAE, as the Nation has a well-balanced approach to digital asset adoption and financial regulation, thus making it a great market for our premium crypto custodian service platform. The UAE is a key driver of innovation and economic growth, encouraging more investors to enter the market, accelerate growth, enable collaboration, and continue to shape the future of finance”.

Pave Bank, digital bank seeks regulatory license in UAE

Pave Bank, digital bank seeks regulatory license in UAE

Pave Bank, digital bank for businesses to transact in stablecoins, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), and tokenized Real World Assets (RWAs) is seeking regulatory license in UAE as it expands its operations to MENA.

Pave Bank, an approved digital banking license from Georgia and a US$5.2M seed funding round led by 468 Capital with participation from Quona Capital, FT Partners, BR Capital, w3.fund, Daedalus and angel investors has launched.

Pave Bank is the world’s first fully regulated commercial bank where clients can not only get the best in class business banking products (such as multi-currency operating accounts, global payment connectivity, and treasury management solutions) but will also have access to multi-asset custody, virtual IBANs, safeguarding accounts and PaveNet, which is a multi-asset, always instant and always on network of Pave Bank customers.

Salim Dhanani, Co-Founder & CEO of Pave Bank commented: “We have set out to address limitations of today’s financial system that lacks transparency, remains restricted to certain time-windows (clearing and settlement, for example) and is riddled with intermediaries. All of this increases costs, management complexity and also limits the products and services which can be accessed by the majority of businesses and especially, for those operating globally. In parallel, we have seen a number of innovative products that have been created in the digital asset space, but sometimes with a lack of regulation and safety for users. We are championing a new path where Pave Bank customers will get access to the financial products that they are used to, but also a range of digital asset enabled products which will help them bank more efficiently within a regulated and secure environment.”

As programmability in financial services takes off, Pave Bank offers a fresh, secure and regulated platform for businesses to transact in stablecoins, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), and tokenized Real World Assets (RWAs). Salim Dhanani added: “There are two major trends that led us to create Pave Bank. Firstly, blockchain is being integrated into the traditional financial system – with stablecoins, CBDCs included, and tokenized RWAs. We are seeing the financial system be built on new operating languages for the first time in over fifty years. Secondly, regulation is here, it’s here to stay, and for the better. We are seeing this narrative evolve around the world – in Singapore, Hong Kong, Georgia, UAE, UK, across the EU and the green shoots in the USA, amongst many others. As a fully regulated digital bank with a proprietary technology stack, we are right at the swell of the programmable financial system wave.”

Pave Bank has started the regulatory journey with a digital commercial banking license in Georgia and plans to continue to build its regulatory infrastructure globally. Georgia is strategically positioned between Europe, the Middle East and Asia, with close ties to the European Union. Its robust and transparent regulatory architecture has attracted a large number of businesses as it seeks to become a financial services hub in the region.

UAE Fils fintech platform launches employing Blockchain for digital payments

UAE Fils fintech platform launches employing Blockchain for digital payments

UAE Homegrown Fils fintech platform which employs blockchain launched prior to Cop28 to integrate sustainable values into the core of digital payments.

Fils aims to bring together buyers with capital and suppliers with high integrity carbon credits.

Nameer Khan, the founder of Fils and chairman of the Mena Fintech Association (MFTA), has designed along with his team a holistic, enterprise-grade B2B2C product offering, Fils leverages the power of leading technologies including Blockchain for its end-to-end infrastructure to transform various industries, including financial services, hospitality, and e-commerce.

This makes it easier for businesses to act on the core values of environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG), said Khan, adding that major partnerships with some of the leading names in the industry would be announced soon.

Khan said Fils is poised to transform the world of ESG, through an API-first digital payment infrastructure that makes sustainability a lifestyle and can be easily embedded into platforms across sectors. He stated, “Fils is a catalyst for the evolution of ESG enforcement and has the right team, technology, experience and expertise to lead the market. With our robust infrastructure, it spells the end of greenwashing and clears a path towards greater accountability and implementation of actionable outcomes that can improve the sustainability of the world we live in.”

Prior to this UAE Ghad Capital partners celebrated the launch of Fils which they stated employed blockchain and AI for a transparent secure payment infrastructure, supporting 17 UN SDGs.

IOTA to launch its regulated DLT Foundation in Abu Dhabi UAE

IOTA to launch its regulated DLT Foundation in Abu Dhabi UAE

IOTA an open-source distributed ledger and cryptocurrency designed for the Internet of things announced that it will be establishing its IOTA regulated foundation for digital infrastructure in Abu Dhabi UAE. This is as per their blog is a move that underlines their commitment to the UAE and their growth plans globally. Prior to this IOTA had announced in September it would launch its headquarters in UAE.

As per the blog post, the purpose of this entity is to become one of the primary organizations to foster the growth, adoption, and global expansion of IOTA. The post states, “As we open up a new chapter with IOTA, we need to match technology with the right support to establish IOTA as a global ecosystem. We can only do this by operating out of the right environment. We are convinced that the UAE will offer IOTA the best environment to realize its global ambitions.”

It adds,” We want IOTA to be a public goods infrastructure that will power our digital society and economy. With the new foundation in Abu Dhabi, we are confident that we will achieve this vision of the future.”

This announcement comes just after ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) regulatory authority (FSRA) announced its new DLT Foundation regulatory framework. So IOTA could be the first entity to launch under this new regulatory framework.

According to Dominik Schiener, Chairman of the IOTA Foundation: ”From the very beginning, we have experienced a very warm welcome and unwavering support from leaders, regulators, and businesses in Abu Dhabi. I am simply amazed at how the country operates and how it is being led by visionary and open-minded leaders. This “can-do” mentality is the perfect environment for us to take IOTA to the next level. We are excited to play a role in helping to establish the UAE as a hub for technology innovations.”

The newly established foundation will operate under the guidance of a dedicated board of directors. One of its primary objectives will be to provide essential funding and support to the rapidly growing IOTA ecosystem. This commitment aligns with our mission to foster innovation and development within the broader DLT space.

IOTA aims to work closely with leading institutions out of the UAE, and building a thriving DLT ecosystem in the UAE and beyond.  

This announcement comes as the IOTA Foundation was chosen as a key participant in the UAE’s official startup delegation at CEATEC in Japan.

“We are thrilled to announce that the IOTA Foundation has been chosen as a key participant in the UAE’s official startup delegation at the upcoming CEATEC conference, scheduled from October 17th to 20th and held at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. This recognition is an immense honor and a testament to IOTA’s pivotal role in pioneering Web3 and Web2 innovations.”

In May 2023, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani AlZeyoudi and the Founder of Iota, Dominik Schiener, met announcing that the IoTa Blockchain platform has now been ushered into the UAE’s digital ecosystem.