UAE Non-Oil Business Activity Surges to Nine-Month High in December

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 The United Arab Emirates' non-oil private sector recorded its fastest expansion in nine months in December 2024, buoyed by strong domestic demand and increased business activity, according to the latest S&P Global Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. PMI Highlights Robust Growth The seasonally adjusted UAE PMI climbed to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, signaling robust growth well above the 50.0 threshold that separates expansion from contraction. This marked the third consecutive monthly increase, underscoring sustained recovery in the non-oil sector. Key drivers of growth included a notable rise in new business activity. The new orders subindex rose sharply to 59.3 in December from 58.0 in the previous month, reflecting strong domestic demand. Challenges Amid the Growth While domestic demand flourished, export growth slowed, with the export orders subindex dropping to a seven-month low. Additionally, businesses faced mounting backlogs due to capacity constraints,...

Digital Assets Gain Traction Among Middle East Investors, Survey Finds

 

Middle East

A recent global survey conducted by Laser Digital, the cryptocurrency arm of Japanese bank Nomura, reveals that a significant majority of professional investors in the Middle East are recognizing the growing importance of digital assets within the investment landscape. The survey highlights the increasing interest in digital assets as a means to diversify investment portfolios, alongside traditional asset classes like fixed income, cash, equities, and commodities. With approximately 93 percent of Middle East respondents acknowledging the potential of digital assets, a new era of investment opportunities seems to be unfolding in the region.

Expanding Investment Horizons: The survey findings indicate a shift in perspective among professional investors in the Middle East, who are actively seeking to explore the possibilities offered by digital assets. Traditionally conservative investment strategies are being complemented by a recognition of the potential benefits that digital assets can bring to diversification and portfolio optimization. The allure of digital assets lies in their ability to provide exposure to unique investment opportunities, tapping into the fast-evolving world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.

Diversification and Risk Mitigation: Digital assets are seen as a valuable tool for diversifying investment portfolios. By including digital assets alongside more traditional asset classes, investors in the Middle East can better navigate market fluctuations and reduce exposure to specific risks associated with a single asset class. This diversification strategy can help cushion against potential market downturns while potentially enhancing overall returns over the long term.

Navigating the Digital Asset Landscape: As professional investors increasingly explore digital assets, they are recognizing the need for a solid understanding of the digital asset landscape and its inherent complexities. Investment firms and financial institutions in the Middle East are expanding their knowledge and expertise in digital assets to ensure they can provide accurate guidance and effective risk management strategies to their clients. This knowledge-building process is crucial to harnessing the full potential of digital assets while ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks and best practices.

Regulatory Considerations: As digital assets continue to gain prominence, regulatory frameworks are evolving to address the unique challenges and opportunities they present. Governments and regulatory bodies in the Middle East are actively exploring ways to provide a robust and secure environment for digital asset investments. By establishing clear guidelines and frameworks, regulators aim to strike a balance between protecting investors and fostering innovation in the digital asset space.

Conclusion: The survey conducted by Laser Digital highlights a notable shift in the perception of digital assets among professional investors in the Middle East. With an overwhelming majority recognizing the potential for diversification and portfolio optimization, digital assets are increasingly being integrated into investment strategies alongside traditional asset classes. As the Middle East continues to embrace digital assets, investment firms and financial institutions are adapting their knowledge and practices to provide clients with comprehensive guidance in navigating this evolving landscape. With regulatory frameworks taking shape, the stage is set for digital assets to play a significant role in the future of investment in the Middle East.

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