Chinese EV maker Xpeng partners Ali&Sons, while Saudi Media Forum launches AI center for media
Here’s a look at today's biggest tech stories in the MENA+:
- Astra Tech becomes top fintech card issuer via Mastercard offering
- EDGE, Italy’s Fincantieri announce JV with $32B pipeline
- Mubadala-backed Zamp eyes Starbucks Brazil operations
- Chinese EV maker Xpeng partners Ali&Sons
- MBRSC completes 50% of MBZ-Sat satellite construction
- PIF's Alat, Carrier partner on Saudi R&D center for building emissions
- Indian firms explore Saudi pharma manufacturing
- Foreign investments in financial market surpass $100B
- Over 90% of firms have an AI strategy, says Cisco study
- AI center for media launched at Saudi Media Forum
- Careem launches service allowing fare negotiations
- $7.5B foreign investments in petroleum sector targeted for FY25
- 2 new firms to be offered for privatization before June
- Dubai-owned Dragon Oil to invest $500M this year
- Banks see excess of local pounds amid scramble for foreign currency
- SBP says will meet 2027 target for transition to Islamic finance
- US calls for end to internet shutdowns, social media curbs
- Saudi-Pakistan digital cooperation task force to be set up
- Maryam Nawaz Sharif set to be first female chief minister
- Sindh High Court orders restoration of social media services
Other MENA+ Developments
- Singapore-based Nium expands Mideast footprint with key partnerships
- Bahrain to introduce new benefits for private sector employees
- QatarEnergy begins construction of $6B petrochemical complex
- Invest Qatar launches new initiative Startup Qatar
- Omantel partners Huawei to establish National Cloud
Southeast Asia Developments
- Delivery Hero ends talks on potential foodpanda sale
- VinFast to break ground on $2B Tamil Nadu facility
- Indonesia, others seek to end global tax moratorium on digital trade
- MNCs choose Singapore over Hong Kong for regional hubs
- GIC, ADIA, others may buy Carlyle’s stake in Nxtra
