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Interview with Naif AbuSaida, founder of Hakbah

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Naif AbuSaida - Founder, Hakbah

By Puja Sharma

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  • Consumer savings
  • Digital payment app
  • financial decisions

Naif AbuSaida – Founder, Hakbah

Hakbah is the cooperative savings platform in Saudi Arabia, offering an integrated solution for the digital management of Jamiya (savings groups). The app supports payments via Mada cards and ensures compliance with Saudi regulations. With features like SMS, email notifications and real-time updates, Hakbah simplifies saving and lending within trusted circles, promoting financial inclusion and ease of use.

In conversation with Naif AbuSaida – Founder of Hakbah

How are technologies being used to increase savings and address the savings crisis in the Middle East?

The Middle East faces a significant savings gap, with many in need of a financial safety net. However, technology is emerging as a powerful tool to bridge this gap and enable people to save effectively.

While traditional savings practices such as Jameya (collective savings pool) have deep roots in Middle Eastern culture, they often rely on manual processes, which can limit accessibility and transparency. At Hakbah, our goal is to digitize Jameya and provide a seamless and secure experience for a new generation of savers. Our mobile app not only digitizes the process, but also promotes community and accountability, two crucial factors for successful savings habits.

With Hakbah, the days of managing Jameya through complex paperwork, Excel, and WhatsApp groups are over. Our intuitive FinTech platform automates contributions, sets personalized goals, and can track your progress. This allows people to develop financial discipline and stay motivated on their savings journey.

Smartphones are not just a tool; they are a way of life in the Middle East, with a staggering 88% penetration rate in Saudi Arabia alone. By leveraging mobile technology, financial services and the ability to save become more accessible and convenient.

Our deep social savings platform is a testament to our commitment to community, leveraging technology to modernize traditional practices, close the savings gap and empower people to take control of their financial well-being.

The future of savings in the Middle East is bright and we are proud to lead this transformative journey. By embracing innovation, we can create a region where everyone has the opportunity to build a secure financial future.

What role does artificial intelligence play in the Gulf’s thriving FinTech ecosystem?

Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool to unlock the Gulf FinTech landscape.

One of the most interesting capabilities of artificial intelligence is its ability to analyze vast data. This allows FinTech companies to understand users’ financial behavior with unmatched accuracy. This information is invaluable for creating customized financial savings solutions.

We at Hakbah are leveraging AI to address two critical challenges in the region: the lack of financial education and the burden of personal debt through social savings. Our AI models go beyond simply offering savings tools and empower people by providing personalized financial guidance. Businesses can use artificial intelligence to analyze their income and spending patterns and then suggest a realistic savings plan or debt repayment strategy. This level of personalized support is critical to achieving financial stability and building a secure future.

By leveraging the capabilities of AI, Hakbah is committed to promoting financial inclusion, empowering individuals, and shaping a brighter financial savings future for the region.

How is the savings market evolving in Saudi Arabia and what are the changes in the financial behaviors of Saudis and younger generations driving the change?

The Saudi savings market is experiencing an exciting transformation. We see a significant shift in financial behavior, particularly among young Saudis. With a large population under 30 (over 60%), the demand for digital and easy-to-use savings solutions is booming. Traditional methods, used by more than four million people, are no longer the only option. Hakbah, for example, offers group digital savings that traditional methods lack, making it more attractive to younger generations.

Financial education is key to driving change among younger generations when it comes to saving. At Hakbah, 70% of our users fall within the 21-28 age group, demonstrating our success in transforming young people’s saving habits. This is a testament to our effectiveness and potential for further growth.

Furthermore, government initiatives such as the Zood Savings Program and the Financial Sector Development Program are not just a boon; we are perfectly in line with their mission. These programs, in line with Vision 2030, aim to diversify the financial sector, increase household savings and promote economic inclusion across the Kingdom. This alignment provides a solid foundation for our future growth and success.

While we have made significant progress, there is exciting potential for further growth. Traditional, non-digital methods remain our main competitor, and Saudi Arabia’s household savings rate is still the lowest in the G20. However, with the growing demand for digital savings, we are ready to bridge this gap and create a smart savings culture for all Saudis.

– What are the current trends and forecasts for the global Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA) market?

While Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCA) and Social Savings (Jameya) are traditional savings methods with a global footprint and a $500 billion market, they are ripe for digital transformation, especially in emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia. We expect the industry to continue to digitize as demand for user-centric tools increases.

Here because:

  • Large and non-digitized market: ROSCAs in Saudi Arabia hold a $5 billion market but lack the efficiency and security of digital solutions. Investing in businesses like Hakbah can bridge this gap by providing a safe and easy-to-use platform for these existing savings groups.
  • Government support for innovation: The Saudi Arabian government actively promotes innovation in the financial sector and Hakbah aligns perfectly with this vision. This alignment provides a solid foundation for the feasibility and success of the project.
  • Tech-savvy young people: Over 60% of Saudis are under 30 and require digital solutions.

This represents a significant opportunity for FinTechs and innovative solutions. Our pilot programs have already shown promising results, with strong demand for the service, reflected in our <400% organic growth over the last 18 months, indicating the potential for substantial growth and profitability.

Why is cooperation between key FinTech players necessary?

In today’s dynamic financial landscape, FinTech collaboration is essential for success. We at Hakbah firmly believe that by working with key players – government bodies, investors, innovators and consumers – we can create a more inclusive and impactful financial ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.

Government Support: The Saudi Arabian government has promoted innovation through initiatives such as the Regulatory Sandbox. As a participant in this Sandbox, we were able to test and refine solutions in a safe environment, mitigating risks and accelerating market entry.

Strategic partnerships: We actively seek collaborations with other FinTech players to improve our offering. Our recent partnership with ELM, Simah, Masdr, Riyad Bank, Fransi Bank and Tarabut is an example of this. By combining our strengths, we have simplified onboarding and reduced data processing by 40%, creating a more seamless customer experience.

Engaging regulators: Working closely with regulators like SAMA is key to ensuring FinTechs comply with the latest regulations. This collaborative approach promotes trust and stability within the ecosystem, demonstrating our commitment to regulatory compliance.

At Hakbah, collaboration isn’t just a buzzword; it is a fundamental principle. By fostering a collaborative environment, we can unlock the immense potential of fintech to promote financial inclusion, empower individuals and advance the Kingdom’s economic approach.

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Fintech

US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings

FinCrypt Staff

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Summer Trading Network 2016

Federal banking regulators have issued a statement reminding banks of the potential risks associated with third-party arrangements to provide bank deposit products and services.

The agencies support responsible innovation and banks that engage in these arrangements in a safe and fair manner and in compliance with applicable law. While these arrangements may offer benefits, supervisory experience has identified a number of safety and soundness, compliance, and consumer concerns with the management of these arrangements. The statement details potential risks and provides examples of effective risk management practices for these arrangements. Additionally, the statement reminds banks of existing legal requirements, guidance, and related resources and provides insights that the agencies have gained through their oversight. The statement does not establish new supervisory expectations.

Separately, the agencies requested additional information on a broad range of arrangements between banks and fintechs, including for deposit, payment, and lending products and services. The agencies are seeking input on the nature and implications of arrangements between banks and fintechs and effective risk management practices.

The agencies are considering whether to take additional steps to ensure that banks effectively manage the risks associated with these different types of arrangements.

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What changes in financial regulation have impacted the development of financial technology?

FinCrypt Staff

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Block Telegraph Staff

Exploring the complex landscape of global financial regulation, we gather insights from leading fintech leaders, including CEOs and finance experts. From the game-changing impact of PSD2 to the significant role of GDPR in data security, explore the four key regulatory changes that have reshaped fintech development, answering the question: “What changes in financial regulation have impacted fintech development?”

  • PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology
  • GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy
  • Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation
  • GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security

PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology

When it comes to regulatory impact on fintech development, nothing comes close to PSD2. This EU regulation has created a new level playing field for market players of all sizes, from fintech startups to established banks. It has had a ripple effect on other markets around the world, inspiring similar regulatory frameworks and driving global innovation in fintech.

The Payment Services Directive (PSD2), the EU law in force since 2018, has revolutionized the fintech industry by requiring banks to provide third-party payment providers (TPPs) with access to payment services and customer account information via open APIs. This has democratized access to financial data, fostering the development of personalized financial instruments and seamless payment solutions. Advanced security measures such as Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) have increased consumer trust, pushing both fintech companies and traditional banks to innovate and collaborate more effectively, resulting in a dynamic and consumer-friendly financial ecosystem.

The impact of PSD2 has extended beyond the EU, inspiring similar regulations around the world. Countries such as the UK, Australia and Canada have launched their own open banking initiatives, spurred by the benefits seen in the EU. PSD2 has highlighted the benefits of open banking, also prompting US financial institutions and fintech companies to explore similar initiatives voluntarily.

This has led to a global wave of fintech innovation, with financial institutions and fintech companies offering more integrated, personalized and secure services. The EU’s leadership in open banking through PSD2 has set a global standard, promoting regulatory harmonization and fostering an interconnected and innovative global financial ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the EU’s PSD3 proposals and Financial Data Access (FIDA) regulations promise to further advance open banking. PSD3 aims to refine and build on PSD2, with a focus on improving transaction security, fraud prevention, and integration between banks and TPPs. FIDA will expand data sharing beyond payment accounts to include areas such as insurance and investments, paving the way for more comprehensive financial products and services.

These developments are set to further enhance connectivity, efficiency and innovation in financial services, cementing open banking as a key component of the global financial infrastructure.

Sebastian Malczyk

General Manager, Technology and Product Consultant Fintech, Insurtech, Miquido

GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy

Privacy and data protection have been taken to another level by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), forcing fintech companies to tighten their data management. In compliance with the GDPR, organizations must ensure that personal data is processed fairly, transparently, and securely.

This has led to increased innovation in fintech towards technologies such as encryption and anonymization for data protection. GDPR was described as a top priority in the data protection strategies of 92% of US-based companies surveyed by PwC.

Arid Islam

Financial Expert, Sterlinx Global

Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation

Since the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) pioneered sandbox regulatory frameworks in 2016 to enable fintech startups to explore new products and services, similar frameworks have been introduced in other countries.

This has reduced the “crippling effect on innovation” caused by a “one size fits all” regulatory approach, which would also require machines to be built to complete regulatory compliance before any testing. Successful applications within sandboxes give regulators the confidence to move forward and address gaps in laws, regulations, or supervisory approaches. This has led to widespread adoption of new technologies and business models and helped channel private sector dynamism, while keeping consumers protected and imposing appropriate regulatory requirements.

George Blandford

Co-founder, UK Linkology

GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security

A big change in financial regulations that has had a real impact on fintech is the 2018 EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). I have seen how GDPR has pushed us to focus more on user privacy and data security.

GDPR means we have to handle personal data much more carefully. At Leverage, we have had to step up our game to meet these new rules. We have improved our data encryption and started doing regular security audits. It was a little tricky at first, but it has made our systems much more secure.

For example, we’ve added features that give users more control over their data, like simple consent tools and clear privacy notices. These changes have helped us comply with GDPR and made our customers feel more confident in how we handle their information.

I believe that GDPR has made fintech companies, including us at Leverage, more transparent and secure. It has helped build trust with our users, showing them that we take data protection seriously.

Dr. Rhett Stubbendeck

CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning

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M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M

FinCrypt Staff

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M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M

Application Programming Interface (API) Infrastructure Platform M2P Financial Technology has reached the final round to raise $80 million, at a valuation of $900 million.

Specifically, M2P Fintech, formerly known as Yap, is closing a new funding round involving new and existing investors, according to entrackr.com. The India-based company, which last raised funding two and a half years ago, previously secured $56 million in a round led by Insight Partners, earning a post-money valuation of $650 million.

A source indicated that M2P Fintech is ready to raise $80 million in this new funding round, led by a new investor. Existing backers, including Insight Partners, are also expected to participate. The new funding is expected to go toward enhancing the company’s technology infrastructure and driving growth in domestic and international markets.

What does M2P Fintech do?

M2P Fintech’s API platform enables businesses to provide branded financial services through partnerships with fintech companies while maintaining regulatory compliance. In addition to its operations in India, the company is active in Nepal, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Bahrain, Egypt, and many other countries.

Another source revealed that M2P Fintech’s valuation in this funding round is expected to be between USD 880 million and USD 900 million (post-money). The company has reportedly received a term sheet and the deal is expected to be publicly announced soon. The Tiger Global-backed company has acquired six companies to date, including Goals101, Syntizen, and BSG ITSOFT, to enhance its service offerings.

According to TheKredible, Beenext is the company’s largest shareholder with over 13% ownership, while the co-founders collectively own 34% of the company. Although M2P Fintech has yet to release its FY24 financials, it has reported a significant increase in operating revenue. However, this growth has also been accompanied by a substantial increase in losses.

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Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering

FinCrypt Staff

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Aveni, Investment Management, AI, NLP, UK

By Gloria Methri

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  • To come
  • Aveni Assistance
  • Aveni Detection

Artificial intelligence Financial Technology Aveni has announced one of the largest Series A investments in a Scottish company this year, amounting to £11 million. The investment is led by Puma Private Equity with participation from Par Equity, Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide.

Aveni combines AI expertise with extensive financial services experience to create large language models (LLMs) and AI products designed specifically for the financial services industry. It is trusted by some of the UK’s leading financial services firms. It has seen significant business growth over the past two years through its conformity and productivity solutions, Aveni Detect and Aveni Assist.

This investment will enable Aveni to build on the success of its existing products, further consolidate its presence in the sector and introduce advanced technologies through FinLLM, a large-scale language model specifically for financial services.

FinLLM is being developed in partnership with new investors Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide. It is a large, industry-aligned language model that aims to set the standard for transparent, responsible and ethical adoption of generative AI in UK financial services.

Following the investment, the team developing the FinLLM will be based at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, in a state-of-the-art facility.

Joseph Twigg, CEO of Aveniexplained, “The financial services industry doesn’t need AI models that can quote Shakespeare; it needs AI models that deliver transparency, trust, and most importantly, fairness. The way to achieve this is to develop small, highly tuned language models, trained on financial services data, and reviewed by financial services experts for specific financial services use cases. Generative AI is the most significant technological evolution of our generation, and we are in the early stages of adoption. This represents a significant opportunity for Aveni and our partners. The goal with FinLLM is to set a new standard for the controlled, responsible, and ethical adoption of generative AI, outperforming all other generic models in our select financial services use cases.”

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