Explosive Growth In MENA’s Startup Ecosystem

by News Editor

March 5, 2025

February marked a groundbreaking month for MENA’s startup landscape, with an impressive $494 million raised across 58 deals—almost five times more than last year’s total for the same month. While Saudi Arabia dominated with $250.3 million accrued over 25 deals, the UAE and Egypt followed suit with $203.5 million and $27.5 million respectively.

Debt Financing Dips In February

Unlike January, where debt financing took the bulk of investments, February saw it drop to just 15% of total funding. The exclusion of debt reveals a staggering 371% increase in investment activity, highlighting a promising shift in financial dynamics.

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Industry Leaders And Rising Sectors

Fintech emerged as the leading sector, delivering $274 million over 15 deals. Insurtech and logistics took the next spots, with $55 million and $28.5 million respectively. This upswing showcases both sustained interest and escalating financial backing for key tech industries.

Regional Contributions and Gender Disparities

B2B models attracted the most attention in February, garnering $191.6 million through 33 transactions. However, gender disparities remain, as startups led by male founders bagged 87% of the total investment. Despite the progress, this underlines the need for more equitable funding allocations.

For further insights into startup ecosystems, explore how Cyprus is setting new records in global startup growth.

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Cyprus University Students Take On Equity Research Challenge With Logicom

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 4, 2026

University students across Cyprus will compete in the 2026–27 CFA Society Cyprus Research Challenge, analysing listed technology group Logicom Public Ltd as this year’s subject company.

The competition officially launched on October 29 at Eurobank Cyprus’s head office in Nicosia, bringing together university teams, faculty advisers, industry mentors and Logicom representatives.

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Putting Investment Analysis Into Practice

Organised by the CFA Institute, the annual competition gives students practical experience in equity research and investment analysis. Participants work in teams to assess a publicly listed company, prepare a research report and present their findings to a panel of industry professionals.

Over the coming months, teams will analyse Logicom’s business model, financial performance and future prospects, supported by faculty advisers and mentors holding the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Their reports must include a buy, sell or hold recommendation.

The local final is scheduled for February 2027, with the winning team going on to represent Cyprus at the regional stage.

Developing Skills And Industry Connections

Beyond financial analysis and company valuation, the challenge helps students develop research writing, teamwork and presentation skills. Working to real-world deadlines and engaging with senior management also gives participants insight into how investment research is conducted in practice.

CFA Society Cyprus says previous participants have often credited the experience with influencing their career choices. For employers, the competition offers an opportunity to connect with emerging talent in the local financial sector.

The programme also introduces students to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, highlighting the importance of integrity and professional responsibility in investment research.

Supporting Future Finance Professionals

“The Research Challenge is one of the most valuable experiences we can offer students who are considering a career in investment management,” said Stella Mourouzidou-Damtsa, CFA, University Relations and Research Challenge Committee chair at CFA Society Cyprus.

“It takes them beyond the classroom and asks them to think, analyse and present like professional analysts,” she added.

Mourouzidou-Damtsa also thanked Logicom for participating as this year’s subject company and giving students access to its business. She said she looked forward to seeing the insight and creativity each team would bring to the competition.

CFA Society Cyprus is a non-profit member society of the CFA Institute representing investment professionals in Cyprus. It promotes ethical standards, education and professional excellence through events, educational programmes and initiatives supporting the local investment community.

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