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 Proposes New Credit Scoring System And Data Sharing Reform

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 25, 2026

Cyprus Ministry of Finance has submitted a package of seven amendment bills aimed at restructuring how credit data is shared and introducing a unified credit rating system for individuals and businesses. Proposals are currently under review by the Parliamentary Committee on Finance.

Unified Credit Data Exchange Framework

Reform is part of a broader effort to modernise financial infrastructure and improve data exchange between credit institutions. Changes cover key areas including banking operations, consumer credit, mortgage agreements, credit management, finance leases and the sale of credit facilities. This initiative is also linked to the Recovery and Resilience Plan, aligning financial sector reforms with wider economic policy.

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Advanced Credit Rating Mechanism

A central element of the proposal is the creation of a single credit score for borrowers. The system will use financial data from the past 24 to 36 months to assess the likelihood of default over the following 12 months. This approach is expected to improve lending decisions and support a gradual reduction in non-performing loans.

Empowering Regulatory Oversight And Data Security

Oversight will be assigned to the Central Bank, which will set operational rules, monitor compliance and impose penalties where needed. The framework also includes provisions on data protection and banking confidentiality, developed in coordination with the Office of the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection.

Structured Data Submission And Access Controls

Proposed legislation defines which entities must submit data and which can access it, introducing a tiered system based on operational needs. Participants will include banks, credit management companies and finance lease providers, all operating under defined conditions.

Reforms aim to simplify existing regulations and reduce overlaps between current laws, as Cyprus moves to modernise its credit system. Lawmakers are expected to review the package ahead of a vote before Parliament dissolves ahead of elections.

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