UAE based Al Maryah bank launches blockchain digital wallet

UAE based Al Maryah bank launches blockchain digital wallet

Al Maryah Community Bank, a digital bank in the UAE has announced the launch of what it calls the first UAE Blockchain enabled national digital wallet, called Mbank Wallet.

As per the X post, “Al Maryah bank Introducing Mbank Wallet: UAE’s first national digital wallet using decentralized blockchain technology, enhanced with QR technology, and linked to Jaywan.”

Jaywan is the UAE’s domestic card scheme. Users open an account with their Emirates ID and add a the Blockchain enabled digital wallet with an IBAN.

The post adds that the Mbank wallet will allow for better financial inclusion within the UAE.

The new digital wallet will allow seamless financial transactions; send, receive, request, and pay money effortlessly, as well as send funds globally.

The Mbank Wallet is already accepted in TAMM, Emarat, Select Market, and Air Arabia.

In May 2024 Al Maryah Community Bank (mBank) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC). This collaboration aims to streamline the account opening process for businesses within DMCC through an Mbank integrated digital platform.

Utilizing Mbank’s Corporate Platform, companies seeking to establish themselves in DMCC can now digitally complete their business bank account opening in six steps, within 48 hours.

In November 2023 Al Maryah Community Bank chose to leverage the services of Ripple ODL partner LuLu to facilitate cross-border money transfers.

Azimut invests a total of $156 million in Alps Blockchain to expand operations in Oman and other markets

Azimut invests a total of $156 million in Alps Blockchain to expand operations in Oman and other markets

Azimut, an independent, global group in asset management, wealth management, investment banking and fintech, has successfully completed a new club deal to invest in Alps Blockchain totaling $156 million. Alps Blockchain is one of Europe’s leading companies and a leader in Italy in the production of computational power for blockchain and digital mining with operations in Oman.

This new €105 million ( $113 million) investment by Azimut in Alps Blockchain, follows a previous round of €40 million ($43 million) in 2023, confirming the confidence and involvement of private investors in the growth of this innovative company. Total club deal investments now stand at $156 million.

Azimut’s investment was made through Azimut Direct Investment Alps Blockchain II SCSp, a dedicated Luxembourg vehicle that invested in a 5-year guaranteed bond with the option of early redemption by Alps Blockchain. This transaction allowed around 1,000 customers, served by the Group’s network of financial advisors and wealth managers in Italy, to gain exposure to the growth of the blockchain sector.

Alps Blockchain is an Italian company that builds and operates mining farms with the aim of contributing to the development of new technologies and supporting the evolution of the energy sector, combining innovation and efficiency. In the last three years the company has quintupled the number of mining machines installed in its planned sites globally from 2,500 to over 15,000. This increase has enabled the company to reach a total energy capacity of 50 MW and more than 2 EH/s (exahash per second) of computing power produced by June 2024.

Alps Blockchain’s positive trend is also reflected in its financial results. Revenues increased from €697,000 in 2020 to €17.3 million in 2022. In 2023, thanks in part to Azimut’s first investment round, revenues reached €43.6 million, an increase of around 140% compared to the previous year, which, with a positive EBITDA.

The funds raised will be used to support Alps Blockchain’s growth and internationalization path, with a focus on consolidating and implementing its existing operations and considering expansion into new markets to further strengthen its global position.

From Italy, the company has already established operations in countries such as Paraguay and Ecuador, where the completed mining farms use hydroelectric power. Alps Blockchain actively supports the energy sector not only by focusing on hydropower, but also by exploring new sources and projects to promote the energy transition.

Among the key markets for future growth is Oman, where the company is already present with a state-of-the-art mining farm within the Green Data City technology hub. The strategic focus is also on North America, a major destination for the mining industry and attractive for new expansion opportunities.

Giorgio Medda, CEO and Global Head of Asset Management & Fintech of the Azimut Group, commented, “We are thrilled to strengthen our relationship with Alps Blockchain, whose objective is to make mining more sustainable, and to offer our customers the opportunity to participate in the growth of an all-Italian excellence that is rapidly establishing itself around the world. This new transaction is part of Azimut’s broader commitment to promoting a global and sustainable energy transition through innovative investment solutions in private markets. A commitment that from 2022 to date counts investments of over €350 million. Our vision is that asset management can increasingly play a crucial role in combining efficient capital allocation with building a more sustainable future’.

Francesco Buffa, CEO of Alps Blockchain, stated, ‘At Alps Blockchain we are committed to shaping projects that foster the synergy between new technologies and the world of energy, generating a positive impact in both sectors. This new investment is an extraordinary confirmation of the confidence in our work and an essential support for the near future. On the sixth anniversary of the company’s establishment, which was July 20th, we are enthusiastically inaugurating a new chapter in its history dedicated to the pursuit of ambitious growth targets.

Francesca Failoni, CFO of Alps Blockchain, added, “The increase in resources will allow us to contribute even more substantially to the blockchain ecosystem, fostering the development of solid and sustainable projects over time. Thanks to this financial transaction, we will not only be able to increase and make our existing sites more efficient, but also invest in the construction of new facilities, aiming to quadruple the production capacity of computing power in the service of this technology by the first quarter of 2025.”

UAE M2 now offers seamless AED to BTC and ETH conversions

UAE M2 now offers seamless AED to BTC and ETH conversions

M2 registered in ADGM, a virtual asset custodian and a Multilateral Trading Facility regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) ADGM, has launched what it calls a simplified pathway for UAE residents to buy and sell Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) through a direct integration with their bank account.

As per the press release, the integration serves as a significant milestone both for the wider accessibility of virtual assets in the region, as well as M2 working to offer a best-in-class product offering within a rapidly evolving landscape.

The new solution will allow UAE residents with banking services to seamlessly convert United Arab Emirates’ Dirhams (AED) into BTC and ETH – and vice versa – via trading pairs listed on M2’s spot market.

The press release adds, that this new pathway, which leverages the strength and security of robust banking infrastructure, is the most recent milestone in M2’s continued work to build trust and industry leading compliance in providing both the safe custody of virtual assets, and the ability to trade Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) with UAE Dirham (AED).


CEO of M2 Stefan Kimmel said, “Through this compliant integration, UAE residents can enjoy the familiarity of their existing and trusted banking services, coupled with the cutting-edge security and functionality of our platform. This is all executed within one of the world’s strictest regulatory frameworks where consumer protection, technology, governance and custody are paramount. It is a significant step for M2 in ADGM as we work to expand our offering for the MENA region and reduce the friction in how clients can navigate between traditional finance and virtual assets.”

Sources close to the matter explained to Lara on the Block, that currently M2 is working with one major bank ( which prefers not to be named) and will expand this to other banks in the UAE in the future.

M2 registered in ADGM, which launched back in November 2023, announced that it was able to onboard retail and institutional clients and would be offering AED Fiat on and off ramp through its participation with a local bank. Eight months later, M2 is finally able to do this.

In a previous interview with Stefan Kimmel with Lara on the Block, Kimmel noted, that launching a fully regulated, transparent clean startup from Abu Dhabi ADGM ( Abu Dhabi Global Market) was because the FSRA ( Financial Services and Regulatory Authority) in ADGM is one of the oldest most respected and esteemed regulatory authorities when it comes to virtual assets and crypto. FSRA as Kimmel explained has been around for five years and has a comprehensive solid framework. He stated, “ After all that has happened in crypto over the past few years, everyone is looking for a safe protected transparent exchange, and this is what we are offering from ADGM.”

He also noted, M2 has is its strong liquidity which is essential for the success of any crypto exchange. M2 has an equity investment of $300 million with strategic partners being UAE based Phoenix Group and several Abu Dhabi family offices.

Credibility of UAE crypto exchanges enhanced with new stablecoin regulation

Credibility of UAE crypto exchanges enhanced with new stablecoin regulation

In the past year the UAE has attracted not only international crypto exchanges but it has also attracted home grown GCC crypto players. One of these international crypto exchanges, which sits as the world’s 12th biggest exchange has also set its eyes on MENA and the UAE viewing UAE as a unique jurisdiction.

BITGET Aka Leung, country manager asserts that UAE’s approach to crypto regulation differs from other jurisdictions, emphasizing the uniqueness of each.

Crypto regulations UAE, Hong Kong, Singapore

Speaking to Lara on the Block, Leung explains that UAE has progressively been embracing cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology positioning itself as a hub because of its favourable regulatory environment which allows citizens and residents to own, trade and invest in cryptocurrencies.

Leung affirms that Hong Kong and Singapore have taken a different approach than that of UAE. He states, “Hong Kong has been developing guidelines for cryptocurrency exchanges under its Securities and Futures Commission, striving to balance innovation and investor safeguarding. Meanwhile, Singapore has established a clear regulatory framework through the Payment Services Act, promoting a conducive environment for fintech and blockchain companies.”

He believes that each region has its unique regulatory approach that balances innovation and investor protection and market stability. He adds, “It is essential for industry stakeholders to navigate these diverse regulatory environments to ensure compliance, foster innovation, and build trust within the global crypto community.”

Crypto Growth in GCC

When it comes to the growth of crypto in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region Leung has seen an increasing interest in not only cryptocurrencies but blockchain technology as governments and businesses explore these applications and their benefits.

Yet he explains that governments in the GCC market should provide clear and comprehensive regulatory frameworks. He explains, “To further stimulate the growth of crypto in the GCC market, regulatory frameworks need to tailor to the unique characteristics of cryptocurrencies that can enhance investor confidence and industry development.”

This should be coupled with “Education and Awareness” about cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology among the general public, businesses, and policymakers.

UAE Stablecoin regulation for crypto exchanges

UAE Stablecoin Payment Token Services Regulation came out laying down the rules and conditions by the Central Bank of UAE for licenses pertaining to payment tokens, not allowing algorithmic tokens to be included and only allowing foreign stablecoins to be used to purchase virtual assets, while the AED dirham stablecoin became the only stablecoin to be allowed for payments in the country.

While this is an advancement when it comes to utilizing the AED stablecoin as a legal tender, the question remains how can centralized crypto exchanges do with this new regulation?

Leung believes that centralized crypto exchanges can enhance the credibility of cryptocurrencies and the crypto exchanges themselves by adhering to the UAE Central Bank stablecoin regulations.

He notes, “Operating with regulated stablecoins demonstrates a commitment to compliance and regulatory standards, fostering trust among users and regulatory authorities. It will Increase the “Market Access” The acceptance of stablecoins as legal tender for payments within the UAE expands market access for crypto exchanges.”

According to Leung the UAE stablecoin regulation opens up new avenues for users to engage with cryptocurrencies, promoting adoption and usage across various sectors. He says, “This is a bridge from traditional finance to digital finance.”

Bitget expansion in MENA

Bitget crypto exchange has embraced the MENA region not only by supporting the Arabic language on its website and mobile application in 2023, but also by partnering with crypto payment solution provider allowing users to buy and sell crypto using various local currencies including, AED, EGP, SAR and others.

Currently Bitget is engaged in establishing trust with users and regulatory bodies as it paves the way for the long-term sustainability and growth.

He adds,” We are still exploring license applications to operate in the MENA markets.”

Crypto Exchanges and UAE’s digital economy

During a recent meeting of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ meeting in Brazil, Shayma Al Awadhi, assistant undersecretary for Communication and International Relations at the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), said the UAE is expected to invest $20 billion in digital technologies such as information technology (IT), telecommunications, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and robotics over the next three years.

The UAE also noted during the G20 meeting that it aims to double the digital economy’s contribution to its GDP from the current level of 9.7 percent to 19.4 percent over the next 10 years.

The acceleration of digital economy’s contribution to UAE’s GDP is intertwined with the growth of digital assets, tokenization, crypto, and stablecoins. 

The role of regulated crypto exchanges will be strong.

Blockchain network Boba launches accelerator with support from UAE investors and freezone

Blockchain network Boba launches accelerator with support from UAE investors and freezone

Boba Network, an optimistic-based multichain layer-2 scaling blockchain solution, has launched the Boba Liftoff Accelerator partnering with venture capitalists, free zone areas in the UAE and others from North America and Southeast Asia. The Boba Liftoff accelerator will assist global Web3 startups to benefit from over US$1 million in funding from Boba Network through the virtual accelerator.

Boba Liftoff Accelerator was launched in partnership with UAE based Brinc venture accelerator firm to support founders in migrating their projects to the Boba Network, an efficient layer-2 solution that offers affordable building costs, lower transaction fees, and enhanced computational power through hybrid computing. 

Establishing partnerships with industry heavyweights, including Animoca Brands, Bixin Ventures, Ceras, Cointelegraph, DMCC ( Dubai Multi Commodities Center), Enjinstarter, Enya Labs, Gate.io, Genesis Capital, Ghaf Capital Partners, Gotbit, Mulana Capital and The Crypto Times, the Boba Liftoff Accelerator boasts a strong network of 100 Web3 mentors and includes top investors from MENA, North America, and Southeast Asia. For example EnjinStarter was already a launchpad partner for Boba.

The Boba Liftoff Accelerator aims to identify and mentor leading Web3 startups focused on scaling real-world assets (RWA), AI, DeFi and gaming projects. All successful applicants receive milestone-based grants, comprehensive technical support and strategic business development resources. Participants will also gain lifetime access to the network, ongoing support, and extensive promotion across Boba and Brinc’s global communities and social media platforms.

The Boba Liftoff Accelerator program lasts 10 weeks and is designed to support projects in expanding onto the Boba Network and scaling rapidly. The program leverages Brinc’s and Boba’s robust networks, mentors, and social platforms to promote projects. It is entirely remote, featuring two workshops per week, engineering support from Boba Network, weekly mentorship sessions, investor and partnership connections as needed, and weekly office hours. 

“We envision a world where blockchain developers can build applications that use the power of decentralization to solve real-world problems. The Boba Liftoff Accelerator enables developers to do just that, with support from industry experts, to accelerate their progress. We can’t wait to see what they build and support them on their journeys.” Alan Chiu, CEO, Enya Labs, a core contributor to Boba Network.

“This program represents a major investment in the future of Web3,” said Yasin Aboudaoud, Managing Partner – MENA and Chief Development Officer, Brinc. “With Boba Network allocating over US$1 million to support startups in DeFi, RWAs, Gaming, and AI, we are not only advancing these key sectors but also reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for technological innovation.”

For more information on the application process and eligibility criteria, please visit the accelerator page. 

Blockchain enabled fan network Fanera, relocates to Saudi after agreement with Saudi Ministry of Investment

Blockchain enabled fan network Fanera, relocates to Saudi after agreement with Saudi Ministry of Investment

 Fanera, a Web3 AI Blockchain enabled social network dedicated for sports fans, has announced their commercial agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment as they relocate their headquarters to Riyadh KSA.

Fanera which utilized advanced technologies such as AI, Blockchain, machine learning allows fans to connect with each other and engage with their favorite teams while earning rewards for their loyalty. In Saudi Arabia, Fanera is set to transform the football experience.

As per the press release, “Fanera by leveraging blockchain and NFTs, will provide fans with unique opportunities to trade their content, ensuring authenticity and creating new revenue streams. This aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s vision for technological leadership and innovation.”

Fanera also offers Clubs, brands, and sponsors a new way to connect with fans and promote their brands.

Fanera was featured as one of the top 20 sports tech startups in 2020 globally and has over 450 thousand users in the MENA region with 1 million daily views. The Kingdom’s commitment to hosting the 2034 World Cup underscores its dedication to becoming a global hub for sports and entertainment. By expanding in KSA, Fanera aims to align with these ambitions and bring an unparalleled fan engagement platform to the heart of the Middle East.

The gamified experience on Fanera rewards users for their interactions, enhancing competition and fostering a vibrant community of football enthusiasts.

“Expanding into Saudi Arabia is a strategic move that aligns with our mission to revolutionize football fan engagement globally. By integrating Web 3.0 technologies, we are not just enhancing the fan experience but also setting new standards in the industry. We are excited to contribute to the Kingdom’s vision of becoming a global sports hub,” said Mo Kilany, CEO of Fanera.

Tokinvest receives provisional crypto broker license from Dubai regulator

Tokinvest receives provisional crypto broker license from Dubai regulator

Tokinvest marketplace for real-world asset tokenization, has been granted a provisional broker-dealer license by Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

As per the press release this license underscores Tokinvest’s commitment to compliance and innovation in the real-world asset tokenization industry.

The company will continue to build its scalable and regulated platform that simplifies buying, selling, and managing real-world asset investments. It offers comprehensive services that cover every aspect of the digital token lifecycle, from ideation to trading to asset servicing.

Scott Thiel, CEO of Tokinvest, says, “Obtaining regulated status in the region is crucial for us. It shows our dedication to complying with international standards and establishing robust, transparent processes prioritizing investor protection. Receiving the provisional broker-dealer license from VARA is a significant validation of our mission to create the leading regulated marketplace that connects real-world asset issuers with investors on a global scale. This provisional license sets us on the path to serving our clients with the highest standards of regulatory assurance.”

Tokinvest advisory board includes Ralf Glabischnig Founder of Inacta Ventures, and founder of UAE based Crypto Oasis and Swiss based Crypto Valley. 

He says: “Tokinvest is leading the charge in real-world asset tokenization with a first focus on Middle East. I’m excited to offer my expertise to support their ambitious goals and connect it with our other securitization and tokenization portfolio companies in Europe and beyond.”

Cardano accelerator invests in Saudi Arabia’s Nuqtah NFT platform

Cardano accelerator invests in Saudi Arabia’s Nuqtah NFT platform

Adaverse a Cardano ecosystem accelerator and venture capital fund focusing on Web3 solutions, has strategically invested in Nuqtah, Saudi Arabia’s blockchain infrastructure builder and NFT management solution.

As per the blog post, this investment marks a significant milestone in both companies’ journeys, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to foster a digital economy and an innovation-driven future.

In March 2024, Adaverse, signed an MOU with Saudi based ASFA Ventures to drive Web3 innovation in KSA and beyond. ASFA ventures is a ventures capital builder that focuses on technology ventures, Web3 technologies. It has already invested in Saudi projects such as AqarToken, and Tokenha. In the meantime, Adaverse has funded 40+ startups across Africa, Asia and beyond.

Adaverse has welcomed Nuqtah to join distinctive initiatives among its diverse portfolio of over 54 startups.

Launched in 2021, Nuqtah has swiftly become a leader in Saudi Arabia’s blockchain and digital asset sector, earning the distinction as the Kingdom’s first licensed platform for creating, trading, and managing NFTs. Nuqtah aims to transform the digital landscape by equipping creators, businesses, and government entities with blockchain technology, thus accelerating Web3 adoption throughout the Middle East.

“We are thrilled about Adaverse’s strategic investment in Nuqtah, a testament to our shared vision of pioneering the Web3 revolution in the MENA region. This collaboration not only underscores Nuqtah’s commitment to spearheading the adoption of blockchain technology but also serves as a catalyst, attracting local and international attention to our burgeoning digital ecosystem. Each of our investors and partners, including Adaverse, stands as a resounding endorsement of the vast potential that Web3 and blockchain hold for the MENA region. Nuqtah takes immense pride in the confidence Adaverse has placed in us, as we continue to build and innovate in the region.” — Nuqtah founder and CEO Salwa Radwi

Nuqtah: From NFT to Consumer Workflow Solutions

Nuqtah has rapidly expanded its suite of offerings from NFT marketplace to comprehensive consumer workflow enhancements. Nuqtah’s platform offers a Workflow Solutions Platform designed to streamline both creative processes and engagement strategies from the planning stage to execution. Its standout feature, the Digital Collectibles Solution, facilitates the creation of NFTs to boost customer loyalty, complemented by a Consumer Engagement and Loyalty Platform that incentivizes interactions with digital collectibles.

Additionally, Nuqtah offers a Customizable Offering Tool, allowing businesses to personalize products and services for their target audience, and Brand Loyalty Enhancement Solutions that use blockchain to increase customer satisfaction. Serving a broad spectrum of industries, including the creative and retail sectors, Nuqtah’s solutions are tailored for businesses eager to incorporate blockchain into their operations, improve customer engagement, or innovate their digital assets and loyalty programs.

How Nuqtah NFT-ed Its Way from Idea to Industry Leader

Nuqtah emerged as a dynamic marketplace with the mission to energize the creator economy, quickly evolving to embrace the potential for greater impact through enabling businesses with blockchain technology. Founded by Salwa Radwi in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Nuqtah has rapidly transformed into a leader in blockchain technology for businesses enabling SMEs to provide innovative solutions to boost consumer engagement. Driven by Radwi’s passion for NFTs and the fusion of art and technology, Nuqtah filled a crucial gap in the local market, becoming the MENA region’s first blockchain provider. It’s more than a marketplace; it’s a community at the intersection of art, heritage, and innovation, designed to empower Saudi youth and creatives. Since 2021, Nuqtah has led the Saudi NFT scene, achieving milestones that underscore its role as a pioneer and aligning with the transformative vision of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

NFTS FOR CONTENT CREATION

Beyond the art and collectibles market, NFTs are revolutionizing content creation, entertainment, real estate, and even identity verification, proving their value in ensuring authenticity and ownership in the digital realm. The global NFT market, continuing its exponential growth trajectory, is expected to expand further as these tokens find new applications in digital rights management, gaming, and decentralized finance (DeFi), among others.

Vincent Li, founding partner at Adaverse, remarked, “Our investment in Nuqtah, as we broaden our presence in the MENA region, marks a pivotal moment for innovation in digital solutions. Nuqtah’s launch couldn’t be more timely, setting the stage for future advancements in the blockchain and NFT user landscape. Their vision mirrors our commitment to pioneering the digital economy, highlighting the transformative power of blockchain to open new opportunities. Together, we’re crafting the path forward in the digital world.”

In May 2024 Adaverse strategically invested in Sorbet, a Saudi Arabian startup geared towards helping freelancers to manage and transact with clients. Sorbet uses Circle Payment services, better known as stablecoin USDC to help clients and freelancers carry out instant payments.

BitOasis becomes 5th crypto service provider to operate in Bahrain

BitOasis becomes 5th crypto service provider to operate in Bahrain

BitOasis, crypto broker has received its first license in the GCC and MENA region from Bahrain. The Category 2 license allows BitOasis to offer crypto asset services from the Central Bank of Bahrain. Prior to BitOasis receiving its license in Bahrain, CoinMENA, RAIN, ARP Digital and Binance had already received licenses.

ARP Digital, CoinMENA and Rain all hold a category 3 license, while only Binance holds a category 4 license. As such BitOasis will be the only category 2 license in Bahrain so far.

As per Bahrain licenses, a Category 1 license is issued to market participants providing investment advisory services, Category 2 licenses for trading in accepted crypto assets as an agent, portfolio management & Crypto-asset custody service as well as offering investment advice. Category 3 licenses are obtained, for trading in accepted crypto assets as an agent, trading in accepted crypto assets as a principal, portfolio management, keeping custody of crypto-asset as well as providing investment advice, while crypto exchanges receive a Category 4 license.

In the meantime, BitOasis current regulatory status in the UAE under VARA is active awaiting full license approval.

As per the press release, the regulatory approval in Bahrain will enable BitOasis to launch its new broker-dealer platform through its local company in the Kingdom, BitOasis Bahrain.

Located in Bahrain Fintech Bay, BitOasis Bahrain will be home to a small team of core employees at its inception, with the company gradually growing its presence in the Kingdom as it works to launch its new platform, expected to go live in the second half of 2024.

BitOasis Bahrain will serve retail, corporate, and institutional clients in Bahrain and the broader MENA region, with an initial focus on its broker-dealer product.

Ola Doudin, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BitOasis, stated, “With regulation at the forefront of a maturing regional crypto market, we are delighted to have secured this new license from the Central Bank of Bahrain. The Central Bank’s commitment and leadership in regulating our industry allows businesses like BitOasis to launch cutting-edge products in an industry characterized by rapidly and dynamically evolving technology. We are excited to welcome our new team in Bahrain to the business and to start serving new customers very soon.”

Launched in 2016, BitOasis offers over 60 tokens with fiat currencies such as AED, SAR, and USD. Since its inception, the company has processed over USD 6 billion in trading volume and raised more than USD 40 million in funding from leading regional and global investors.

IMF: Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and UAE are in advanced CBDC stages

IMF: Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and UAE are in advanced CBDC stages

In a recent IMF blog, the International Monetary Fund noted that almost two-thirds of countries in the Middle East and Central Asia are exploring adopting a central bank digital currency with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and UAE in the more advanced proof of concept stages. The countries in MENA and Central Asia are studying CBDCs as a way to promote financial inclusion and improve the efficiency of cross-border payments.

The IMF Blog notes however that CBDCs require careful consideration, with each weighing their own unique set of circumstances.

Many of the 19 countries currently exploring a CBDC are at the research stage. Bahrain, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have moved to the more advanced “proof-of-concept” stage. Kazakhstan is the most advanced after two pilot programs for the digital tenge.

Chart1

As per the blog, Central Bank Digital Currencies for cross border payments are an important priority for oil exporters and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. That’s because cross-border payments tend to have frictions like varying data formats and operating rules across regions and complex compliance checks. CBDCs that address these inefficiencies could significantly cut transaction costs. 

These digital currencies can advance financial inclusion by fostering competition in the payments market and allowing for transactions to be settled more directly and with less intermediation, in turn lowering the cost of financial services and making them more accessible.

The IMF blog also notes that unlike commercial banks, central banks can also help keep costs lower as they aren’t concerned with making a profit. Similarly, the resulting increased competition in the payments market from a CBDC could also encourage upgrading technology platforms and the efficiency of payment services, helping financial services reach more people.

Countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa oil importers, and low-income countries are especially interested in this potential benefit.

The blog notes that CBDCs may have risks given that CBDCs might compete with bank deposits. It could weigh on bank profits and lending and have implications for financial stability. However, lenders in the region generally have adequate capital levels, profit margins, and liquidity buffers, and their relatively high concentration may limit strains on deposits. Large banks are especially dominant in Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

For monetary policy, CBDCs could strengthen the pass-through into deposit rates by increasing competition among banks. A CBDC could also strengthen the bank lending channel of monetary policy. However, as our paper underscores, the impact would likely be country-specific and is difficult to estimate because CBDC uptake is limited so far.

Policymakers can mitigate potential risks with design features to limit competition with bank deposits, such as using carefully calibrated restrictions on CBDC balances and transactions, could also help.

Design features are an important consideration. The IMF survey shows that selecting appropriate features for CBDC implementation is a key challenge for regional policymakers. Achieving the policy objectives of promoting financial inclusion and payment system efficiency will depend on relevant design choices.

For instance, designing CBDCs to work offline could promote financial inclusion in areas with spotty mobile service, such as in low-income countries and fragile and conflict-affected states. Similarly, using CBDCs for cross-border transfers could help lower the cost of sending remittances and speed up transfer times.

According to the blog, introducing digital currencies will be a long and complicated process that central banks must approach with care. Policymakers need to determine if a CBDC serves their country’s objectives and whether the expected benefits outweigh the potential costs, risks for the financial system, and operational risks for the central bank.

The Blog post comes a week after KSA announced that it had joined Mbridge CBDC project, and Qatar’s announcement that it had started to work on a CBDC pilot. The UAE is also moving forward with its CBDC project.