Future Fund Oman supports Blockchain startup Nashid

Future Fund Oman supports Blockchain startup Nashid

Future Fund Oman (FFO), an investment initiative under Oman Investment Authority (OIA), announced its first batch of approved investment projects which included a Blockchain startup, Nashid, a digital identity platform.

With a combined value exceeding US$ 2 billion, these projects include US$ 1.6 billion committed by foreign investors and US$ 571 million contributed by FFO. The investments are expected to create more than 1,600 direct employment opportunities, marking a significant step forward in Oman’s economic diversification and development strategy.

Future Fund Oman launches first wave of investment projects worth over US$ 2 billion. The approved projects span ten key sectors, including technology, manufacturing, tourism, renewable energy, and electric vehicles. In addition, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups will play a prominent role, with investments targeting food, health, financial technology, e-commerce, and more. This comprehensive approach reflects FFO’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth across a broad spectrum of industries, ensuring that both large-scale ventures and emerging businesses contribute to Oman’s economic progress.

Mulham Al Jarf, Deputy President for Investments at Oman Investment Authority, stated that these projects underscore the Fund’s dedication to fulfilling its strategic objectives. These include stimulating local economic growth, fostering collaboration with the private sector, attracting foreign investments, and creating opportunities for Omani businesses and job seekers. He emphasized that these projects represent just the beginning of FFO’s efforts since its establishment in January 2024.

Among the approved projects are transformative initiatives that position Oman as a leader in innovative industries. Notable projects include the United Solar Polysilicon Plant in the SOHAR Port and Freezone, which will be one of the largest polysilicon production facilities in the world and the first of its kind in the Middle East. This facility will produce 100,000 tonnes of polysilicon annually, a critical component for renewable energy industries such as solar panel manufacturing.

Other major partnerships include the IDG Oman Fund, developed in collaboration with China’s IDG Capital, which will focus on ICT, renewable energy, and electric vehicles. Additionally, FFO has also partnered with EW Partners to establish the EWP Oman Fund, which targets key sectors such as ICT, energy, tourism, and agriculture.

Future Fund Oman is also supporting a range of SMEs and startups in partnership with fund managers like Tanmia, ITHCA, Omantel, and Cyfr Capital. These include IO Kitchen, an innovative cloud kitchen featuring over 30 virtual brands; Bima, an online insurance brokerage service; and Qpay, the first licensed Omani entity offering a “buy now, pay later” service. Other groundbreaking projects include BcLear Aligner, an AI-powered solution for dental braces; Nashid, a blockchain-based digital identity platform; and Antom, a digital financial platform that enhances the capabilities of Oman’s fintech ecosystem.

FFO was established in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance with a capital of $5.2 billion, allocated over five years from 2024 to 2028. The Fund strategically excludes investments in oil, gas, and real estate, focusing on growth-oriented sectors aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040.

Interested investors are invited to submit proposals through the dedicated platform, https://futurefund.om/futurefund/

Blockchain Global Trade Project sets up headquarters in Oman

Blockchain Global Trade Project sets up headquarters in Oman

Advanced Horizon Markets s.r.o. developing its Blockchain and AI enabled GlobalTrade project, has set up its headquarters in Oman after an investment firm acquired 80% of its shares during its seed phase, valuing the project at 1.1 million Euros.

As per the press release, the investment marks a pivotal moment for GlobalTrade, propelling it into a new era of growth and expansion. As part of this development, the headquarters of the GlobalTrade project will be relocated to Muscat, Oman.

GlobalTrade aims to redefine international trade operations through digital innovation, transparency, compliance, and sustainability. With this investment, efforts to create a comprehensive digital marketplace that serves the global business community will be accelerated. The platform is designed to offer robust business verification, smart contracts, integrated quality control, comprehensive shipping solutions, and real-time tracking, all powered by advanced technologies such as blockchain and AI.

Advanced Horizon Markets will retain 15% of the shares, with a three-year cliff, while an additional 5% will be distributed among dedicated technical team members. Advanced Horizon Markets specializes in creating technology-driven solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible. The company is committed to enhancing global trade through cutting-edge digital platforms and services that promote innovation, sustainability, transparency, compliance, and simplified global trade.

Partnerships with international organizations, financial institutions, insurance companies, tech startups, and logistics providers underscore the commitment to making GlobalTrade a one-stop solution for all global trade needs. These collaborations enhance the platform’s offerings, making it a comprehensive and seamless experience for businesses worldwide.

Amin Mirfakhraie, Co-Founder of GlobalTrade, expressed his excitement about this new chapter: “We are thrilled about this investment and the opportunities it brings for GlobalTrade. Relocating to Muscat and collaborating with our Omani partners will enable us to leverage their expertise and resources, accelerating our platform’s development and introducing innovative solutions to the global trade market.”

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.”

Oman cybersecurity firm partners with Blockchain entity SettleMint

Oman cybersecurity firm partners with Blockchain entity SettleMint

NSSG a Omani cybersecurity firm that specializes in safeguarding digital assets and sensitive information has partnered with Settlemint a blockchain firm that enables enterprises to easily and rapidly build and integrate blockchain applications, while empowering teams with the skills, knowledge, methodologies, guidance and ongoing support they need.

As per an X statement, ” The collaboration aims to introduce and support blockchain transformation in Oman by bridging the gap between people, processes, and technology.

NSSG provides top-tier cybersecurity solutions, expert consulting services and innovative product manufacturing, all working in harmony to safe-guard our clients’ digital assets and privacy. As per their website, “We are committed to achieving excellence through innovation, expertise, and dedication to fulfilling our client’s security needs.”

The signing agreement was in the presence of NSSG’s Chief Technology Officer, Hamza Al Jaafari, and from SettleMint, the VP of EMEA, Sunath Kolazh.

NSSG noted, “We are committed to providing organizations with the skills, knowledge, methodologies, guidance, and ongoing support necessary for successful blockchain implementation.”

Settlemint has been expanding its partnerships in the GCC region. It recently partnered with the Islamic Research and Training Institute, the research arm of the Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB), have embarked on a journey to build blockchain based Sharia compliant financial products. The first project will be concerned with Sharia compliant subsidy distribution aimed at creating an efficient and transparent system for Sharia-compliant subsidy distribution for its 57 member countries globally, encompassing 1.7 billion people.

Additionally in Qatar, Qatar Financial Authority signed an MOU with Blockchain entity SettleMint to forward digital asset industry.

First DePin cloud data solution launches in Oman

First DePin cloud data solution launches in Oman

Serenity Shield, a fully decentralized multi-chain data storage solution, has launched its inaugural DEPIN ( Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network), a decentralized storage facility in Oman. As per the press release, it will be the first facility of many to go live for testing across a global network of interconnected points at pivotal locations in India, Portugal, Netherlands, USA and Australia.

Serenity Shield is a fully decentralized multi-chain solution dedicated to privacy and security. It empowers individuals and businesses to interact securely and confidently in the digital world by leveraging the power of blockchain to safeguard and protect user data.

The operation seeks to liberate individuals and corporations from their current dependence on centralized cloud services for data storage.

With this robust infrastructure, Serenity Shield will allow individuals, businesses and government institutions to access a completely new form of data storage that gives redundancy, security and decentralisation by design. The vast array of global data centers will help to mitigate the centralised risks that currently threaten the widespread adoption of blockchain technology.

Venket Naga, CEO of Serenity Shield, explained, “The self-custodial narrative of decentralization hasn’t been able to stand up amidst the continued dependence on centralized cloud services to store data. We’ve been focused on addressing this for a long time and are finally able to deploy a remarkable solution in getting our DePIN facilities off the ground. In building and launching these state-of-the-art physical facilities, we’re able to fully support a Web3 ecosystem beyond the outlining of conceptual plans in a whitepaper.”

As per the press release, individuals who participate as node operators within the globally distributed network are set to benefit from incentive mechanisms such as token rewards and utility cost settlements. As the operations evolve, tokenized energy rewards will be distributed to users based on their specific locations and requirements, bringing an unparalleled aspect to a project of this kind with the convergence of DePIN and RWA.

The operation is also set to be funded through Green Hydrogen initiatives for renewable energy by governments across the selected locations, with the DePIN architecture already aligning with several sustainability initiatives.

In addition commercial blockchain projects will also be encouraged to contribute resources to the network and foster a collaborative ecosystem. Small and medium enterprises will experience advantages to supply chain management, data synchronization and content distribution; and governmental institutions will be able to better preserve public records and sensitive information.

Venket concluded, “By embracing the values of Web 3.0 and building upon the foundations laid by Web 2.0, we are forging a path towards a fine-tuned decentralised, resilient, and inclusive digital future. We are in the middle of an exciting digital transformation where the paradigm is shifting from centralized to decentralized systems, redistributing power and control in unprecedented ways.

At the forefront of this revolution stands the opportunity for an innovative Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network to redefine how we conceive, construct, and manage physical infrastructure. It makes sense to start with the data.”

Hydro Crypto mining the star of Bitmain summit in Oman

Hydro Crypto mining the star of Bitmain summit in Oman

A manufacturer of Global crypto mining servers, Bitmain is holding its yearly event, the World Digital Mining Summit (WDMS) in Oman on March 29th 2024 at the W hotel. The theme of WDMS in Oman will be “Hydromining wins the desert”.

As per the press release, the conference will provide new financing opportunities and revitalize the market. Leading mining, finance, investment, custody and energy companies from around the world will participate in the event to help the digital currency and crypto ecosystem flourish. WDMS will provide an international platform to discuss financing mining, mine establishment, renewable energy, mining resources, PoW development and many other hot topics.

The summit will focus on hydro-mining, a cutting-edge technique promising to revolutionize the cryptocurrency mining industry. Hydro mining is an innovative approach to mining that utilizes water to cool mining equipment, a critical innovation in the heat-intensive climates of desert regions. As the industry grapples with environmental concerns, hydro-mining presents a sustainable and efficient solution for digital currency extraction.

Attendees can expect to delve into discussions on sustainability, efficiency, and the future of crypto mining technologies in the digital age. Bitmain’s initiative to hold the summit in Oman underscores the country’s emerging role as a hub for technological innovation in the Middle East.

Oman has been investing heavily in datacenters, and has attracted crypto mining entities such as Pheonix Technologies and Exahertz among others.

Oman based Mamun to invest $1 million in Shariah compliant and digital asset startups

Oman based Mamun to invest $1 million in Shariah compliant and digital asset startups

Oman based Mamun Ventures announced that it will be investing $1 million in Shariah compliant startups and digital asset startups.

As per a LinkedIn post Mamun stated, “Exciting News!  Mamun is dedicating $1,000,000 USD to Invest in Sharia-Compliant Startups in MENA Region! We’re thrilled to announce that Mamun Ventures is allocating $1,000,000 USD in funding from our generous partners to fuel our mission of investing in innovative startups across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.”

Startups in the MENA region, at early stages, pre-seed or seed stages are eligible.

Mamun notes that they are interesting in startups that have a marketplace angle and involve supply chain participants.

Mohammed Al-Tamami speaking to LaraontheBock stated, “We will also be investing in Shariah compliant digital assets, Web3 companies, crypto entities covering the entire Shariah compliant space.”

In December 2023, UAE and Singapore based Triterras, a fintech company focused on digital trade and supply chain finance, using Blockchain enabled trade finance platform Kratos, partnered with Oman based Mamun, fintech infrastructure provider to bolster trade finance in Oman.

In February of this year, Oman’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) announced its roadmap for 2024 which will encompass 130 initiatives of which blockchain technology will play a part.  The Oman Ministry of Housing intends to launch a unified portal with one of its main components being blockchain.

Oman was also one of the first countries in the MENA region to launch crypto mining datacenters.

Oman Ministry of Housing uses blockchain for unified portal

Oman Ministry of Housing uses blockchain for unified portal

Oman’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning ( MoHUP) has announced its roadmap for 2024 which will encompass 130 initiatives of which blockchain technology will play a part.  The Oman Ministry of Housing intends to launch a unified portal with one of its main components being blockchain.

The plan hinges on four key pillars: empowering people, embracing a digital leap, strengthening foundations, and building together. These guiding principles will translate into tangible actions, such as capacity-building programs, streamlined processes through technology, clear regulations, and enhanced public engagement.

Urban planning takes center stage, with initiatives like the implementation of the Greater Muscat City structural plan and the development of comprehensive plans for major centers like Greater Sohar and Salalah. Future cities like Sultan Haitham City and Al Jabal Al Akhdar will see significant progress, while the development of Khasab will gain momentum.

As part of its commitment to ensuring “Housing for All”, the Ministry has outlined a number of programs. The Mandaa Project will provide safe havens in Jabal Shams, while mountain villages will receive 84 new residential units. The Kamzar Housing Project and initiatives in the Al-Halaniyyat Islands address specific needs, and relocation and renewal efforts will bring modern housing to Soqara residents and revitalize Wadi Bani Khalid and Qurayyat.

Beyond these specific initiatives, the plan outlines ambitious goals like distributing 1,000 government residential plots, establishing 1,200 housing units within the housing assistance program, and securing RO 1.9 billion for housing loans with the Oman Housing Bank. The completion of 1,051 housing units in Al-Naseem and the offering of 5,300 units through the Sorouh Program further demonstrate the Ministry’s commitment to tangible outcomes.

All this will include a digital transformation journey with the digitization of all Ministry services and the launch of a unified portal leveraging blockchain technology. Key legislation related to urban planning, real estate, and housing will solidify the legal framework for sustainable development.

Previously, the digital revolution permeated the Ministry’s operations, with 56 services automated on platforms like Tatweer and Amlak. This shift not only streamlined processes but also empowered citizens with convenient online access.

In January 2024, The Oman Development Bank announced as well that it would be digitizing its operations utilizing low code blockchain enabled solutions from NewGen Software. Newgen Software, a global provider of low code digital transformation platform will streamline Oman Development Bank’s banking processes.

In addition, the Ministry of Transport Communications and Information Technology announced earlier in February that it would be piloting Blockchain Land transport eWay Bill.

Even ESCWA in February organized a training workshop in Oman on blockchain technology for trade facilitation. The workshop is part of a project to build the capacities of member countries to use the blockchain technology to enhance trade facilitation and competitiveness.  Participants included Omani officials from various agencies including the Ministry of Transport and Information Technology, Ministry of Trade, Customs authorities and Oman Logistics Center.

Oman Development Bank utilizes blockchain enabled solutions

Oman Development Bank utilizes blockchain enabled solutions

The Oman Development Bank will be digitizing its operations utilizing low code blockchain enabled solutions from NewGen Software.

Newgen Software, a global provider of low code digital transformation platform will streamline Oman Development Bank’s banking processes.

Oman Development Bank, the financing arm for the government to support SMEs based in Oman is dedicated to enhancing its banking processes, aiming for a seamless, secure, and omnichannel experience for its customers.

The bank has opted for Newgen’s intelligent process automation (BPM) and contextual content services (ECM) offerings, built on the NewgenONE low code platform. This project would be executed with the help of Newgen’s platinum implementation partner, Ikyam Technologies.

The Newgen Intelligent process automation and contextual content services are built on a low code platform that manages content, processes ad communication. It empowers  employees to easily develop applications, from automating small departmental functions to enterprise wide solutions

The platform helps leverage cutting-edge capabilities such as robotic process automation (RPA), digital sensing, mobility, analytics, and blockchain,

Leveraging Newgen’s solutions, the bank will oversee the entire content lifecycle, from origination to disposition. The solution provides efficient tools for capturing content from diverse sources and facilitates instant document uploads—managed within a secure, centralized repository. The bank can optimize processes and foster collaboration between front- and back-office teams through user-friendly workflow automation. Moreover, the solution will allow DB to mitigate business risks by ensuring compliance and securing business-critical information. The integration with core banking and third-party systems will provide a unified experience.

“With Newgen’s robust solution, we look forward to achieving a paperless work environment that will enhance efficiency, reduce overall costs, and eliminate process bottlenecks. This will help us meet the targeted growing demand and scale operations to handle high-volume transactions efficiently, leading to a better customer experience. With this implementation, we are poised to set new benchmarks in delivering innovative financial services, empowering SMEs financially, and aligning with the country’s economic development goals,” said Mahmood Al-Yafai, Digital Transformation Program Director, Development Bank.

“It brings us great pleasure to partner with DB, supporting and advancing their digital transformation program’s goals. DB’s trust enhances our standing as a robust, adaptable, and scalable platform meeting the diverse spectrum of banking customer needs. We look forward to helping the bank build a strong foundation with digital banking and supporting their future initiatives,” said Vivek Bhatnagar, VP – EMEA Sales, Newgen Software.

Ministry of transportation in Oman pilots Blockchain solution

Ministry of transportation in Oman pilots Blockchain solution

The Ministry of Transport Communications and Information Technology in Oman will be piloting Blockchain Land transport eWay Bill on February 4th 2024.

The land transport eway bill is a blockchain enabled digital document used to authenticate and secure the process involved in land freight transportation. It includes crucial information such as quantities weights, origin, and destination of goods

As per the statement on X, the key objectives of the eWaybill include simplifying logistical operations and streamlining procedures for efficient and smooth tracking and documentation of shipments.

It will ensure service quality and enhance transportation operations; preserve and protect the interests of all parties involved, and elevate the overall quality of logistic services.

NAFITH a company that develops and operates technology-driven services that increase the productivity of trade processes and shared freight transportation infrastructure to benefit the public and advance commerce will be implementing the solution for Oman.

Nafith operates in Oman, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

In 2023 Oman also announced that Oman’s telecom operator Omantel, and Indonesian Telkomsel signed up to GSMA’s ebusiness network accelerator program to trial next gen telco blockchain network for roaming. The new network would speed up roaming processes, support roaming agreement negotiations and expedite billing and settlement. The trials  went live in June 2023.

While Oman blockchain ID tech startup, Nashid was selected by Swiss Tech4trust accelerator to participate in their program out of Trust Valley of Lausanne, Switzerland.