"The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka is a 1915 novella about Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up transformed into a giant, monstrous insect. Unable to work and support his family, Gregor is alienated, confined to his room, and eventually neglected, dying alone while his family feels relief.
Sharikat Mubasher Expert Thoughts
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Sharikat Mubasher
Jan 21, 2026
The Alchemist
The book tells the fable of Santiago, a Spanish shepherd boy who journeys to the Egyptian pyramids in search of treasure after a recurring dream, discovering along the way the importance of following one's "Personal Legend," listening to the "Soul of the World," and realizing the true treasure is the wisdom and transformation gained through the journey itself, not just the destination.
Sep 9, 2025
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Sep 9, 2025
The future of P2P companies in KSA
Shaimaa Ibrahim
What is Peer-to-Peer Lending?
Peer-to-peer lending (P2P lending), as a significant component of the FinTech sector, is quickly becoming the most popular alternative investment option. P2P lending enables individuals to obtain loans directly from other individuals, cutting out the financial institution as the middleman. P2P lending is also known as “social lending” or “crowd lending.”
P2P lending websites connect borrowers directly to lenders. Each website sets the rates and the terms and enables the transaction. Most sites have a wide range of interest rates based on the creditworthiness of the applicant. P2P services are less expensive than traditional banking institutions. As a result, lenders might earn higher returns than investors and savers offered by banks and other institutions.
Some sites specialize in particular types of borrowers. Funding Circle, for example, focuses on small businesses, while Lending Club has a “Patient Solutions” category that links doctors who offer financing programs with prospective patients.
In 2022, the total value of global P2P lending market reached $134.35 billion, according to data published by SNS Insider. This figure is expected to reach $708.8 billion by the end of 2030.
P2P Lending market in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, P2P lending market is flourishing because growing technologically advanced P2P segment with added transparency over traditional banking system, affordable operating cost & low material risk, and increasing modernization of digital technologies in the BFSI sector. The kingdom’s P2P lending market size is expected to grow at a Robust CAGR of 30.45% reaching a value of $27.96 billion by 2029, according to a recent report by BlueWave Consulting.
Major growth factors of Saudi Arabia peer-to-peer lending market include Increasing technologically advanced with added transparency over traditional banking system, lesser operating cost & low material risk and growing modernization of digital technologies in the BFSI sector. Due to banks' rigorous credit rules, the money lending system is in high demand from small and medium-sized organizations (SMEs) and consumers. This drives users to P2P lending sites, which have comparatively speedier credit approval. Also, the implementation of digitalization in the banking sector increases transparency over traditional banking systems, which is projected to boost market growth.
However, P2P lending is one of Saudi Arabia's fastest growing fintech platforms. The tremendous rise of the financial sectors has attracted an increasing number of investors to this region. Banks and corporations that have previously avoided investing in Fintech are now doing so.
When compared to the traditional approach, peer-to-peer lending services are more transparent and less expensive. Thus, all these aspects are expected to boost the expansion of the overall market during the period in analysis. However, risks associated with credit and lending are anticipated to restrain market growth.
Categories of P2P lending market in Saudi Arabia
Based on loan type, Saudi Arabia’s P2P lending market is divided into Consumer Credit Loans, Small Business Loans, Students Loans, and Real Estate Loans segments. The small business loans segment held the highest market share, and the trend is expected to continue in the following years. P2P lending platforms can be an excellent source of small company loans, especially for companies that do not qualify for regular bank or financial institution financing, as they usually have softer lending rules than traditional lenders and may be able to provide credit to small firms at cheaper interest rates.
However, during the forecast period between 2023 and 2029, the size of Saudi Arabia P2P lending market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 30.45% reaching a value of $27.96 billion by 2029, according to a recent report by BlueWave Consulting. Major growth drivers for Saudi Arabia P2P lending market include Increasing technologically advanced with added transparency over traditional banking system, lesser operating cost & low material risk and growing modernization of digital technologies in the BFSI sector.
Further, ongoing Saudi Vision 2030 promotes the digitization process to achieve higher efficiency and performance in different industry verticals. The rapid adoption of digitization by the BFSI industry fastens the process of loan lending and is easier than the traditional method. High-end investments by the major players to upgrade the existing infrastructure of the Digital Lending platform and coupled with higher adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing is expected to benefit the growth of the Digital Lending market in the next five years.
Saudi P2P lending market top players
Saudi Arabia’s major players operating P2P lending market include Tabby, Lendo, Raqamyah, Tammwel, Forus, Abdul Latif Jameel United Finance, Tamam, and Raya Financing Company. These companies adopt various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches, for the sake of enhancing their market share.
The Saudi market has several platforms to have a vital role in empowering SMEs across the kingdom through facilitating loans for SMEs. These platforms include Raqamyah, Forus, and Lendo.
As for Raqamyah, it uses innovative technology to connect small businesses seeking fast, affordable finance with lenders who could help fund their growth. By lending directly to businesses through Raqamyah, lenders earn attractive returns while businesses get fast, easy access to funding at competitive rates to grow, create jobs, and drive the economy forward.
On the other hand, Forus is a crowdfunding platform that bridges the gap between finance and SMEs, helping small businesses access the capital they need to grow and thrive. The platform enables borrowers to showcase their business potential and attract investment from individuals and institutions looking to support promising ventures.
The last platform is Lendo, a shariah-compliant P2P digital lending marketplace. The platform helps pre-finance outstanding invoices for businesses in the kingdom via offering a variety of financing products for SMEs with an initial focus towards pre-invoicing finance.
Sep 9, 2025
TFC Enters USD-Agreements For Egyptian Women (Testing)
Signed during the fourth meeting of the Technical Coordination Committee AfTIAS 2.0, the first partnership agreement aims to support Egyptian women in international trade in the agro-food industries and handicrafts sectors, while the second agreement promotes the traditional Palestinian craft industries.
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Sep 9, 2025
Buguard raises $500K in seed round, eyes expansion in Saudi Arabia
As organizations across the MEA region increasingly embrace digitalization strategies and rapidly shift toward cloud migration, we will inevitably see an expansion of the threat surface area. The region has already witnessed exponential growth in threats such as DDoS attacks, phishing, and ransomware, resulting in the implementation of strict regulatory compliance measures across many countries and greater awareness around the need for organizations to improve their security postures. This will drive strong demand for security solutions over the next few years until the situation stabilizes.
With a share of 19.2%, the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) vertical will be the MEA region’s biggest spender on security solutions and services this year and will remain so through 2026. Cybersecurity remains a top priority for the industry, with BFSI organizations continuing to spend on enhancing security in their application and development environments, strengthening customer trust in digital services, and developing security for cloud migration.
In this regard, Sharikat Mubasher conducted an interview with Youssef Mohamed, Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Buguard, the Cairo-based offensive security and dark web monitoring company, discussing the company’s latest fund round and how the proceeds will be used. Mohamed also discussed the recently launched product and the company’s expansion plan across the GCC, especially Saudi Arabia.
How will you allocate the proceeds of the company’s recent seed round?
Our $500,000 seed fund raise, led by A15, is our first external funding. Following a very successful first half of 2023, we are keen to build on our rapid momentum by growing our team, ramping up product development and sales, signing new strategic partnerships and expanding regionally.
Would you please give us more details regarding your newly launched product “Dark Atlas”?
Our newest product is Dark Atlas, a SaaS product for dark web monitoring and account takeover prevention. Dark Atlas has several competitive differentiators; the product is much broader and deeper and monitors for malware such as Redline, Raccoon, and Vidar - the root causes of most material data breach incidents. These are a serious threat as they steal saved credentials from victims’ browsers and have the relevant URL within which the credentials can be used.
Dark Atlas also monitors dark web marketplaces, hacking forums, underground channels, and private clouds to identify and help neutralize breaches across different venues.
How do you see the future of cybersecurity companies in Egypt?
We will continue to see the growth of the cybersecurity sector in Egypt for several reasons. As Egypt continues to undergo rapid digital transformation, the threat of cybersecurity becomes more real and therefore will need to be greater addressed, resulting in a growth of the industry.
Additionally, we are seeing a lot of support for cybersecurity from the Egyptian government as it plays a vital role in assisting Egypt’s strategy and 2030 vision for digital transformation. Collaboration between the private sector and government is imperative for the continued development of cybersecurity and for the prevention of cyberthreats.
What makes Buguard unique among its competitors in the market? What are the extra services you offer to your clients?
As a multinational cybersecurity firm, we offer a range of offensive security services including penetration testing and vulnerability assessment, phishing simulation, compromise assessment, threat intelligence and red teaming.
By performing different security assessments on the scope, we can identify security vulnerabilities on our client’s network, application, or code, and analyse the risk and its impact on the organization.
It is important we guarantee our clients are equipped to continually prevent, identify, and respond to cyberattacks by utilizing our awareness of attackers’ techniques to penetrate defenses, in-depth knowledge of the newest security tools, and a dedication to innovation.
We recently announced the launch of Dark Atlas, our new SaaS product for dark web monitoring and account takeover prevention. Dark Atlas specifically monitors compromised devices for information stealer malware, dark web marketplaces, hacking forums, underground channels, and private clouds to identify and help neutralize breaches across different venues.
Who are the company’s most important clients in Egypt and in the MENA region? and who are the clients you are targeting in the coming phase?
All our clients are important. We are sector agnostic and work with several companies in Egypt who are paving the way in their respective fields. Examples include Paymob, Rabbit and Thndr. We have also developed a global client base spanning Saudi Arabia, the United States, France, Australia and the UAE.
What is Buguard’s expansion plan in the GCC, especially in Saudi Arabia? How do you see the Saudi market attractive to your business?
Definitely. GCC expansion, particularly to Saudi Arabia, is a priority for us this year. The recent funding will help us fulfil our significant growth potential and expand our market reach.
Saudi Arabia has increased its investment in cybersecurity, and the government has formed several regulatory frameworks and laws to protect businesses from cyber threats, emphasizing the Kingdom’s dedication to cybersecurity and the sector’s maturity.
The Cyber Security Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.4% between 2020 and 2026, with The National Cybersecurity Authority also setting out minimum standards for cybersecurity, as businesses are advised to adopt these measures to ensure the safety of their data.
As KSA and the GCC move forward with their rapid technological advancements, it is vital for businesses to have the right cybersecurity infrastructure in place to prevent any vulnerabilities.
How does the world of dark web cyber threats affect companies’ growth and performance?
The dark web threat is very real, dynamic, and growing. It can be a very dangerous place and is a haven for cybercriminals stealing and compromising personal credentials – which is still the most common cause of a data breach. The impact of the dark web, if not regulated can be significant, resulting in financial loss, reputation damage for the business, and a loss of stakeholder trust.
In the UAE alone, cyber-attacks increased by 71% in 2021, and PwC data shows 58% of Middle East organizations anticipate a rise in cyber spending, up from 43%. As the GCC region rapidly transforms digitally, more and more companies will adopt greater cybersecurity measures, as the impact of an attack increases and systems grow more complex.
Sep 9, 2025
TFC Enters USD-Agreements For Egyptian Women, Palestinian Crafts
The standard chunk of Lorem Ipsum used since the 1500s is reproduced below for those interested. Sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 from "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum" by Cicero are also reproduced in their exact original form, accompanied by English versions from the 1914 translation by H. Rackham.The standard chunk of Lorem Ipsum used since the 1500s is reproduced below for those interested. Sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 from "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum" by Cicero are also reproduced in their exact original form, accompanied by English versions from the 1914 translation by H. Rackham.The standard chunk of Lorem Ipsum used since the 1500s is reproduced below for those interested. Sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 from "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum" by Cicero are also reproduced in their exact original form, accompanied by English versions from the 1914 translation by H. Rackham.The standard chunk of Lorem Ipsum used since the 1500s is reproduced below for those interested. Sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 from "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum" by Cicero are also reproduced in their exact original form, accompanied by English versions from the 1914 translation by H. Rackham.
Sep 9, 2025
Egypt’s EXITS MENA raises total capital to $1.25m
Cairo – Mubasher: Egypt-based investment platform EXITS MENA increased its total capital to $1.25 million after Silicon Valley-based venture firm Practical VC participated in its latest funding round, according to a press release.
EXITS MENA is a merger and acquisition (M&A) advisory firm that combines its online platform EXITS.me with offline M&A advisory services. The fintech aims to provide startups and small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) with a blend of investment-banking-related services.
The platform will allow business owners anonymously market their ventures to registered investors and buyers. This is besides securing access to a wide range of investment-readiness building services and educational materials to boost their chances of achieving a successful investment.
EXITS MENA has closed six deals at a combined value exceeding $10 million across 15 verticals in the region since the platform's beta launch.
It is worth highlighting that EXITS MENA recently obtained its securities promotion and underwriting licence from the Egyptian Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) to further expand its scope and enhance services.
Sep 9, 2025
How can brands become TikTok famous?
What started out as a lip-syncing and dancing platform has, in the space of just two years, become the fastest growing app in the world. TikTok, has evolved dramatically since its launch and is now the latest platform for brands to consider. But creating content on TikTok is fundamentally different to creating content for other social media platforms.
Why does one video do exceptionally well, while others hardly get any views? How exactly do the algorithms work? And why is consistency so important?
In this podcast, Rami Zeidan, head of video and creative at TikTok Middle East and North Africa, answers these questions and explains what startups and small businesses can do to succeed on the platform.
Sep 9, 2025
The urgent need to support agritech startups
Aamer Sheikh is the chief executive officer of the Middle East Business at PepsiCo, one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies
The world's population is projected to grow to 9-10 billion by 2050, and with that comes a looming challenge: how can enough food be produced to meet everyone's needs? The 2020 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report predicts that food production will have to increase by 50 per cent from today's levels. But it is not just about producing more food – it is about doing so sustainably. The 2020 Global Agricultural Productivity Report states that total agriculture productivity needs to increase by 1.73 per cent every year to achieve this feat sustainably. It is a formidable challenge, but one that we simply cannot afford to ignore.
Sustainable agriculture is one of the greatest opportunities to address world hunger, climate change, biodiversity loss, and rural-urban inequality. Positive agricultural practices that restore soil and strengthen farming communities have the potential to feed the world’s growing population while building a resilient global food system.
On this front, startups are making a significant impact in transforming the industry through technology and innovation, driving improvements in productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. That is why it is crucial for private sector players to identify opportunities to collaborate with startups – to create a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.
Providing tangible support
First and foremost, startups need access to funding and resources. While many startups have the potential to revolutionise the agriculture industry, they often face significant barriers to entry due to the high cost of research and development, regulatory hurdles, and limited access to markets.
To truly unleash the disruptive potential of startups, private sector players need to provide them with access to funding and resources. This will support the development of innovative solutions, expand their offerings, and boost revenue streams.
Investors in the region often adopt a return-on-investment approach rather than solving a real-world problem approach, which can be challenging. As an industry, we need to fundamentally change our mindsets. Strategic investors have a lot to gain from investing in small businesses. By funding startups, they can create fertile ground for pioneering ideas to take root and build productive relationships with innovative companies that can help them stay ahead of the curve. Meanwhile, a startup’s association with a large, successful company can enhance its reputation among potential customers. Through this mutually beneficial relationship, each can solve common challenges and drive long-term, sustainable growth.
Power of collaboration
Another important consideration is collaboration. Startups often have unique expertise and perspectives that can be valuable to other stakeholders in the agriculture industry.
To achieve a widespread adoption of sustainable agricultural practices will require strong and committed partnerships among all stakeholders – from policymakers and NGOs to food companies and farmers.
For example, PepsiCo’s Greenhouse Accelerator Programme: Mena Sustainability Edition is a cross-industry collaboration which brings together the expertise of the Food Tech Valley, the regulatory backing of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the scale of a corporation like PepsiCo. This type of collaboration is critical to support investment and competitiveness of food production in the region.
Championing sustainability
In addition, everyone must prioritise sustainability and be mindful of the long-term impact on the environment and the communities in which they operate.
In many cases, the lack of awareness about sustainable farming methods and their advantages is hindering the uptake of startups. Corporations must guide agricultural startups to explore best practices that are relevant to their areas of focus, in addition to implementing and measuring the impact of regenerative farming on their operations. Proven benefits go a long way in promoting adoption. Incentivising farmers to adopt sustainable practices by offering them preferential terms is yet another way that can bring both parties closer to their shared goals.
Creating an ecosystem for sustainable growth
The region is seeing a range of innovative startups blossom, but there is a grassroots job of creating a more holistic ecosystem that fosters innovation across the board.
For example, working with leading universities to foster innovative ideas that can eventually receive the funding, networking, and mentorship, to grow into promising businesses capable of disruption. Another solution would be to create incentives for international startups to set up base in the region and facilitate an environment for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, so that the region can become a hub for innovation in sustainable agriculture.
The problems we face with food security, water scarcity, and food wastage – while not only close to home, are also globally relevant. Investing in the full ecosystem will create an environment where we can export technology and innovation to the rest of the world – and in turn, harness the potential of startups and support their growth to contribute to overall economic growth. Big multinational collaborations with shared goals must take the initiative to bring relevant stakeholders together to drive this forward.