Crypto

Fintech

How stablecoins are rebuilding MENA cross-border payments

Mar 25, 2026

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23 min read

How stablecoins are rebuilding MENA cross-border payments

How stablecoins actually work and why Tether owns emerging markets. The regulatory landscape across Saudi, Egypt, and the UAE. The founders building the pipes, the sovereignty question, and why the window is closing.

Jamie Lane

Fintech

Dec 5, 2025

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3 min read

CoinMENA acquired by Paribu in up to $240M deal, marking Türkiye’s largest fintech transaction

The Turkish crypto giant gains VARA and Bahrain licenses through its purchase of CoinMENA, expanding regulated operations into the MENA region as consolidation accelerates across digital asset markets.

Jamie Lane

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Web3 startup Astra Nova secures $48.3M to expand creator platforms globally

Oct 21, 2025

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2 min read

Saudi Web3 startup Astra Nova secures $48.3M to expand creator platforms globally

Founded by Muhamed Ashhar and Faizy Ahmed, Astra Nova develops tools that allow creators to launch interactive blockchain-based experiences without technical expertise.

Jamie Lane

Startups

Dubai’s VARA fines Fuze over AML failures, cites unlicensed activity

Aug 19, 2025

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3 min read

Dubai’s VARA fines Fuze over AML failures, cites unlicensed activity

As part of the enforcement action, Fuze was handed a financial penalty and placed under ongoing supervision, with remedial actions to be overseen by an independent expert.

Jamie Lane