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Samsung has commenced local production of laptops in India, marking a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy. The move follows growing trends in the global tech industry, where companies are increasingly decentralising their manufacturing to cater to regional markets and mitigate supply chain risks. The tech giant’s decision to set up its laptop assembly line in India comes as part of a broader push to diversify its production capabilities and tap into the country’s emerging manufacturing ecosystem.

The new facility, which is located in Noida, is expected to meet rising demand for Samsung laptops in India and other parts of Asia. The plant will focus on assembling a range of models, from entry-level to premium devices, with an emphasis on enhancing the supply of high-performance laptops. By doing so, Samsung aims to capitalise on the Indian government’s incentive schemes aimed at boosting local manufacturing and creating jobs in the sector.

India has become an increasingly attractive destination for global manufacturers due to its robust infrastructure, competitive labour costs, and a growing pool of skilled engineers and technicians. Samsung’s decision to invest in local laptop production highlights the country’s status as a strategic hub for tech companies looking to scale operations. The move also aligns with the Indian government’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing leader under the “Make in India” initiative, which encourages foreign companies to establish production bases in the country.

The South Korean company has been investing heavily in India over the past few years, with a significant focus on expanding its footprint in consumer electronics, particularly smartphones. The expansion of laptop production further strengthens its position in the Indian market, where the demand for personal computing devices has been steadily increasing. India, with its young population and rapid digitalisation, presents a lucrative market for tech companies. By establishing local manufacturing units, Samsung can not only meet this demand more effectively but also potentially lower the cost of its devices by reducing import duties and other logistical expenses.

Samsung’s Noida plant will be equipped with advanced manufacturing technology, allowing the company to ensure that its laptops meet international quality standards. The facility is expected to produce several million units annually, with an eye on both the domestic and export markets. This localisation strategy is expected to significantly cut down on shipping costs and delivery times, giving Samsung a competitive edge over other international brands that continue to import their devices into the country.

The move comes at a time when India is becoming increasingly attractive to global technology firms. Companies like Apple, Dell, and HP have already ramped up their manufacturing presence in India in recent years. India’s well-established electronics sector, supported by the government’s push to improve infrastructure and streamline regulatory processes, has led to a surge in foreign direct investment in the country’s tech manufacturing ecosystem.

Samsung’s expansion into laptop production also reflects the growing importance of India in the global supply chain. The country’s status as a low-cost production base, combined with its large consumer market, makes it an attractive location for companies looking to avoid the risks associated with heavy dependence on single countries, such as China. By shifting some of its manufacturing operations to India, Samsung can reduce its exposure to potential disruptions in China, which has long been the dominant player in global electronics manufacturing.

This shift is also likely to have broader implications for the Indian tech industry. With global giants like Samsung setting up local production lines, it is expected that the country will see an increase in the number of skilled jobs in the tech sector. Additionally, the growing demand for locally manufactured devices may spur innovation in the country’s tech ecosystem, encouraging the development of homegrown talent and technologies. This would not only strengthen India’s position as a manufacturing hub but also lay the foundation for the growth of its own tech startups.

ADNOC Group’s six publicly listed entities posted a combined net profit of USD 4.7 billion for the first half of 2025, underscoring how the widespread deployment of advanced artificial intelligence across operations has sharpened efficiency and underpinned robust growth.

At the heart of this transformation lies MEERAi, ADNOC’s proprietary AI platform. It is deployed across ADNOC Gas, ADNOC Distribution, ADNOC Drilling, ADNOC Logistics & Services, Fertiglobe and Borouge, delivering real-time, data-driven insights that are elevating decision-making and operational precision across the board.

ADNOC Gas achieved a record Q2 net income of USD 1.385 billion, marking a 16 per cent year-on-year rise, while EBITDA increased 8 per cent to USD 2.256 billion, propelled by surging local demand and operational prowess. Investors will see the payoff as the board approved an interim dividend of USD 1.792 billion, up 5 per cent, due for disbursement in September 2025. MEERAi’s impact was central in guiding the board’s strategic decisions.

ADNOC Distribution delivered its highest first-half EBITDA to date—USD 566 million, up 10 percent—with net profit climbing 12.2 percent to USD 358 million. Fuel volumes surged to a record 7.62 billion litres, and non-fuel retail gross profit lifted 14.9 percent. The AI-driven enhancements include predictive fuel-demand forecasting, intelligent assortment planning and hyper-personalised customer offerings. The company introduced MEERAi to its board for real-time strategic oversight, and it expects to distribute a USD 350 million dividend in October 2025.

ADNOC Drilling also delivered standout performance, with management attributing its ability to scale through diverse energy cycles to advanced technologies including AI. The board approved a USD 217 million second-quarter dividend in August 2025. The company is also pursuing regional expansion, including a majority stake acquisition in SLB’s land drilling business across Kuwait and Oman.

Borouge’s AI, digitalisation and technology programme generated USD 307 million in value, including an AI-powered control room in collaboration with Honeywell and integration with MEERAi. New product innovations such as medical-grade polyolefins and recyclable packaging also featured prominently.

Meanwhile, ADNOC’s broader push to harness AI is also playing a central role in its clean-energy pivot. Following earlier investments in AI tools like RoboWell and AR360, which generated USD 500 million in value and reduced around one million tonnes of CO₂ emissions between 2022 and 2023, the company is now deploying AI to advance low-carbon energy frontiers including hydrogen and carbon management, in partnership with entities such as SOCAR, Microsoft and Masdar.

Across all six listed companies, the near-term financial performance echoes the effectiveness of ADNOC’s strategy of embedding AI across both core operations and emerging markets. The unified deployment of MEERAi is not just enhancing control-room functions, but reshaping boardroom dynamics, driving smarter strategy execution, operational optimisation, emissions reduction and product innovation.

Key players in this transformation include the leadership of ADNOC Distribution, championing digital retail evolution; ADNOC Drilling’s CEO Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi, who has publicly credited AI for the company’s resilience and growth momentum; and the broader ADNOC executive team, aligning technology and energy transition goals. Their collective efforts are reinforcing ADNOC’s position as a global energy player committed to leveraging AI for sustainable value creation.

Futu Securities International has launched Solana trading on its Futu NiuNiu App in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in expanding access to digital asset markets. The launch comes on the heels of a broader push for crypto adoption across Asia and aims to offer more flexible trading opportunities to the region’s retail investors.

This move positions Futu Securities, an influential brokerage firm, as a key player in the competitive landscape of cryptocurrency trading in Hong Kong. The company has been focusing on bridging traditional financial services with digital asset trading, reflecting a growing trend in the region towards integrating blockchain technology into mainstream investment platforms.

The new trading feature allows users to trade Solana directly, a cryptocurrency known for its high-speed transactions and scalability, which have positioned it as a potential competitor to Ethereum. The decision to add Solana to the platform follows a series of strategic partnerships and product enhancements by Futu, aimed at capturing a share of the rapidly evolving crypto trading market.

Solana’s inclusion is particularly notable given the increasing popularity of decentralized finance platforms and non-fungible tokens, sectors where Solana has made significant strides. Its fast transaction speeds and lower fees have made it a favourable option for developers and traders alike. By offering this asset, Futu Securities provides its customers with greater flexibility to tap into the growth of blockchain-based applications.

The launch also comes at a time when other crypto trading platforms are making similar moves to expand their offerings. The competitive pressure is particularly intense in Hong Kong, a city that is positioning itself as a major hub for digital assets in Asia. Several firms are already catering to the burgeoning demand for cryptocurrency products, prompting regulators to adapt to the new landscape.

Hong Kong’s regulators have taken a balanced approach to crypto oversight, striving to foster innovation while ensuring the protection of investors. This regulatory stance has attracted firms like Futu to launch new offerings with confidence, knowing that the regulatory framework is supportive of such developments.

Futu’s move into the retail Solana trading space also ties into the broader trend of financial firms integrating digital currencies into their portfolios. The platform already offers trading in various other digital assets, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, making Solana’s addition a natural extension of their crypto offerings.

This shift is not isolated to Hong Kong alone. Several other financial institutions in Asia have been exploring ways to incorporate blockchain technology into their traditional business models. Many see digital currencies as a way to diversify their service offerings and attract a new wave of tech-savvy investors who are more inclined to explore innovative financial products.

Futu Securities’ push into the crypto space also follows its international expansion strategy. The company has been actively seeking ways to grow its customer base beyond the borders of mainland China, where stricter crypto regulations have limited access to digital asset markets. By capitalising on Hong Kong’s more open regulatory environment, Futu aims to strengthen its position in the broader Asia-Pacific region.

As retail investors in Hong Kong and across Asia continue to show increasing interest in cryptocurrencies, platforms like Futu NiuNiu are tapping into this growing demand by offering accessible and secure trading options. This aligns with broader trends in the financial industry where the lines between traditional and digital assets are becoming increasingly blurred.

The decision to offer Solana trading comes at a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency market. Solana has garnered attention as a potential alternative to Ethereum, largely due to its speed and lower costs. With the platform’s growing user base, the ability to trade SOL on a mainstream brokerage app represents an important shift in how digital assets are perceived by traditional investors.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has announced the commencement of seasonal flights connecting the UAE capital to Yekaterinburg, Russia, marking an important step in the airline’s expansion strategy. The new service, which will operate during the winter months, offers a direct, low-cost option for travellers between the two regions, catering to the rising demand for affordable travel during peak seasons.

The flights, operating non-stop, provide an efficient travel option for those seeking to connect between the UAE and Russia. Air Arabia’s Abu Dhabi-based operations have grown rapidly, with the airline seeking to solidify its position as a key player in the region’s budget airline sector. The new route to Yekaterinburg highlights the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity between the Middle East and Russia, particularly as demand for travel has surged.

Yekaterinburg, one of Russia’s major cultural and industrial hubs, has become a significant destination for business and leisure travel from the UAE. The city, which is located in the Ural region, is known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and strategic importance as an economic centre. The direct flight to this city will make it easier for both tourists and business professionals to travel, bolstering the already strong ties between Russia and the UAE.

This launch also reflects a broader trend in the aviation industry, where low-cost carriers are rapidly expanding their international routes to cater to an increasing number of travellers looking for budget-friendly travel options. As competition intensifies among airlines, Air Arabia’s expansion is timely, offering more affordable alternatives to traditional, higher-priced carriers, and positioning the airline as a competitive force in the region.

The decision to introduce seasonal flights also underscores Air Arabia’s flexibility in adapting to seasonal travel demand. As the winter season typically sees an uptick in travel, the airline is poised to cater to holidaymakers and those travelling for business, aligning with the growing interest in international travel. By offering this seasonal route, Air Arabia aims to provide its customers with more options without compromising on affordability.

For the UAE market, this development is significant. As the country continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for travel and tourism, having direct air links to cities in Russia, such as Yekaterinburg, provides an added dimension to the UAE’s international appeal. The move comes as part of a wider strategy to enhance bilateral relations between the UAE and Russia, focusing on expanding both tourism and business opportunities.

Air Arabia’s service to Yekaterinburg is also expected to appeal to a broader demographic, especially Russian nationals residing in the UAE. The ease of direct travel will foster stronger connections between these communities and provide greater access to the cultural and economic opportunities of both countries. With Russia being a major trading partner of the UAE, the new flight route is expected to foster greater collaboration in both sectors.

The airline has also taken steps to ensure that its passengers are well catered for. In line with its low-cost offering, the airline continues to provide high-quality service at an affordable price, which includes modern aircraft with amenities that appeal to a wide range of customers.

Bitcoin continues to follow the fluctuations of global liquidity, with the broader M2 money supply maintaining a positive correlation with its price movements. Recent data indicates that the cryptocurrency has largely mirrored the ebb and flow of liquidity across financial markets, suggesting that the ongoing dynamics between global monetary policies and Bitcoin’s performance could set the stage for further price gains or potential setbacks in the near future.

The M2 money supply, a key indicator of money in circulation that includes cash, checking deposits, and easily convertible near money, has witnessed significant growth over the past few years. This expansion has been a central feature of global central banks’ responses to economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic recovery efforts. As governments continue to inject liquidity into their economies through various monetary policies, Bitcoin has benefitted from a favourable environment, with its price often tracking the liquidity’s upward trends.

Bitcoin’s price movements have been closely tied to these liquidity expansions. Historically, periods of increasing global money supply have seen the digital asset rise in tandem, benefiting from increased investor confidence and speculative demand. As central banks keep interest rates low and maintain expansive fiscal policies, the resulting surge in M2 liquidity tends to fuel risk appetite in financial markets, often spilling over into assets like Bitcoin.

However, the current economic climate is marked by signs that this positive correlation might face new challenges. While Bitcoin’s price has largely remained on track with liquidity growth, early signs suggest that a potential correction could be imminent. Some market analysts point to signals such as diminishing returns on investments in certain financial markets, growing inflationary pressures, and tightening monetary policies in select regions as indicators that liquidity-driven asset prices, including Bitcoin, might soon face downward pressure.

The potential for a Bitcoin correction is also being discussed more openly as the cryptocurrency approaches new all-time highs. Historically, Bitcoin has experienced sharp price adjustments after reaching peak levels, driven by a combination of profit-taking, shifting sentiment among institutional investors, and changes in macroeconomic conditions. As a result, while the positive liquidity-Bitcoin correlation remains intact for now, market watchers are increasingly cautious, aware that the prevailing optimism could be replaced by a recalibration in response to evolving economic factors.

At the heart of the concern is the likelihood that the global liquidity boom, fuelled by expansive monetary policies, may be coming to an end. Some central banks, especially in developed economies, have already started to signal their intention to reduce stimulus measures. The United States Federal Reserve, for example, has been gradually winding down its bond-buying programme, a step that many analysts view as the first indication of a potential shift towards tighter monetary conditions. Should this trend continue, it could have significant repercussions for Bitcoin’s price, which has thrived in an environment of abundant liquidity.

Bitcoin’s reliance on speculative investment has always made it vulnerable to shifts in broader financial market conditions. As institutional investors and retail traders adjust their portfolios in response to global liquidity changes, the cryptocurrency market often experiences heightened volatility. A slowdown in liquidity growth, combined with the tightening of fiscal policies, could lead to increased market caution, potentially slowing down Bitcoin’s momentum.

Despite these concerns, Bitcoin’s long-term outlook remains closely intertwined with global liquidity. As central banks continue to maintain expansive monetary policies, the cryptocurrency may still benefit from an influx of capital seeking higher returns in an environment of low interest rates. However, the risk of a market correction should not be underestimated. With rising inflationary pressures in many countries and increasing calls for tighter monetary policies, Bitcoin’s trajectory could experience turbulence in the short term.

Dubai’s real estate sector has seen a notable surge in licensed activities, with 4,049 new registrations reported in the first half of 2025. This increase highlights the city’s continuing appeal as a hub for global investment, underscoring its position as a growing economic powerhouse.

The expansion in real estate-related activities is a key indicator of investor confidence in Dubai’s property market. The city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its investment climate, alongside the development of new regulations and policies, have solidified its standing as a global player in the real estate sector. The uptick in the number of new real estate ventures reflects a broader trend of diversification in the market, as Dubai seeks to expand beyond traditional residential and commercial projects into emerging sectors like hospitality, mixed-use developments, and smart city infrastructure.

The Dubai Land Department has been instrumental in driving these developments by continuing its focus on transparency, innovation, and regulatory improvements. One of the standout features of Dubai’s property market has been its emphasis on simplifying procedures for investors, which has directly contributed to the rise in new real estate-related ventures. The DLD’s efforts to digitise property transactions and improve investor accessibility have been particularly significant in this regard.

Dubai’s status as a business-friendly environment has also played a critical role in attracting international investors. Policies such as long-term residency visas, 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors, and reforms in property ownership laws have all enhanced the city’s attractiveness to global capital. The emirate’s strategic location, offering easy access to both Eastern and Western markets, has further positioned it as a key destination for multinational companies and high-net-worth individuals looking to invest in its growing real estate sector.

Dubai’s commitment to diversification has allowed it to weather global economic fluctuations better than many other markets. The emirate’s drive towards sustainability and innovation in urban planning has led to the development of numerous smart city projects, which blend residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in ways that appeal to both investors and residents. These initiatives have attracted attention from international real estate developers who view Dubai as a model for the future of urban living.

The diversification of Dubai’s real estate market is not limited to the types of properties being developed, but also to the services and amenities that accompany them. The growing prominence of serviced apartments, co-working spaces, and eco-friendly developments shows that the market is increasingly catering to a wide range of needs. The ongoing shift towards more integrated communities reflects broader global trends, such as the rise in remote working and demand for work-life balance.

Dubai’s real estate sector has also been buoyed by its ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the expansion of its transport network, the Dubai Expo City, and the upcoming World Expo 2030, which is expected to bring even more global attention and investment to the emirate. The government’s plans to develop future-focused infrastructure align with global trends in technology, sustainability, and connectivity, positioning the city as a model for future urban development.

Investor interest in Dubai’s property market is further supported by the city’s relatively stable macroeconomic environment. The UAE’s strong economic performance, backed by diversification efforts in sectors like tourism, technology, and renewable energy, continues to drive demand for commercial and residential properties alike. Despite global uncertainties, the Dubai real estate market remains a safe haven for investors, thanks to its robust regulatory framework, investor-friendly policies, and a growing base of international buyers.

The Gulf region is fast becoming a significant alternative hub for Indian jewellery manufacturing and exports, spurred by rising trade tensions between the US and India. Experts point to the growing challenges faced by Indian jewellers, particularly as American tariffs on Indian imports climb in response to geopolitical factors, including India’s continued oil purchases from Russia.

The latest move by the US, led by an executive order from President Donald Trump, has intensified trade uncertainties. The executive order, signed on Wednesday, introduces a hefty 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, with specific implications for the jewellery sector. This tariff hike, effective in three weeks, increases the overall tariff burden on Indian imports to 50 per cent—one of the highest rates the US has imposed on its trading partners.

For years, India has been the global leader in jewellery manufacturing, with a robust presence in the international market, particularly in the US. However, the imposition of punitive tariffs has forced many Indian jewellers to rethink their export strategies. The Gulf region, traditionally a key market for Indian gold and precious stones, is now gaining prominence as a strategic manufacturing base, offering a more favourable trade environment.

The decision to shift operations to the Gulf is driven by a combination of factors, including the region’s strategic geographic position and its trade agreements with major markets. Countries like the UAE and Bahrain have long been involved in the jewellery trade, but as tariffs increase on Indian exports to the US, their roles are now being redefined. Experts suggest that the Gulf’s advanced infrastructure, coupled with an array of free trade agreements, makes it an attractive destination for manufacturing and re-exporting high-end jewellery to global markets, including the US.

The Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group, one of the region’s leading jewellery trade bodies, has welcomed the shift, noting the opportunities it presents for growth. The UAE, in particular, has developed an attractive ecosystem for jewellery manufacturers, offering tax incentives, access to advanced technology, and a well-established logistics network. These benefits make it an appealing alternative for Indian jewellers seeking to bypass the punitive tariffs imposed by the US.

India’s reliance on the US market for jewellery exports, particularly in the high-end sector, has been significant. However, as the tariff burden becomes heavier, companies are exploring alternatives that provide both cost-effectiveness and access to lucrative international markets. Several large manufacturers have already established bases in the UAE, with plans to expand their operations further into the region.

A noteworthy trend is the increasing collaboration between Indian and Gulf-based jewellery firms. These partnerships are focused on expanding manufacturing capabilities while reducing reliance on traditional export routes. The UAE, with its business-friendly policies, is proving to be an ideal locale for jewellery production, particularly for smaller-scale businesses that are unable to absorb the full impact of the US tariffs.

One of the key drivers of this shift is the growing US demand for luxury goods, including jewellery. The tariff hike, while discouraging direct exports from India, has not dampened the appetite for high-quality jewellery. Instead, it has prompted companies to explore alternative routes to meet this demand. Experts point out that the Gulf provides a strategic advantage for such businesses, offering them the flexibility to maintain their competitive edge without the added burden of trade barriers.

The Gulf’s importance in the global jewellery trade has long been overlooked in favour of established centres like India. However, as geopolitical tensions continue to shape trade flows, the region’s position as a central player in the jewellery manufacturing process is becoming more evident. Industry insiders predict that over the next few years, the Gulf’s jewellery manufacturing and export capabilities will only grow stronger, reshaping the global jewellery supply chain.

For Indian jewellery manufacturers, the shift to the Gulf represents a broader strategy to diversify their risk exposure. By establishing a presence in markets that are less susceptible to abrupt policy changes, Indian companies are better positioned to mitigate the impact of volatile geopolitical situations. The expansion of Gulf-based jewellery production also ensures that India maintains a foothold in the lucrative US market, even as tariffs continue to escalate.

Mira Developments, a UAE-based luxury real estate developer, has made a significant move into Oman with the acquisition of a one million square foot plot of land in the Dhofar Governorate. This strategic expansion positions the company to tap into the growing demand for luxury properties in Salalah, particularly as the region gains attention for its potential in high-end tourism and residential developments.

The announcement came shortly after Mira Developments hosted a high-profile three-day mastermind retreat that brought together over 100 top-tier real estate professionals. The retreat, which included brokers, architects, and representatives from luxury brands, marked a pivotal moment in the company’s ambitious expansion strategy. The event served as both a networking platform and a launchpad for the company’s upcoming developments in Oman, including the highly anticipated Mira Coral Bay project.

Mira Developments’ decision to enter the Omani market underscores its broader vision to become a leader in luxury branded living across the Gulf Cooperation Council region. With a focus on integrating premium design, sustainability, and lifestyle excellence, the company aims to set new standards for luxury communities in the region. The project will not only contribute to the local economy but also elevate the standards of residential living in Salalah, which is emerging as a prime destination for affluent residents and tourists.

The retreat, which was set against the picturesque backdrop of Salalah’s unique natural landscape and the refreshing Khareef season, proved to be the perfect setting for brainstorming and collaboration. The event featured a series of workshops and strategic roundtable discussions that aimed to push the boundaries of innovation in real estate. Participants explored opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and exchanged insights on future trends in luxury living, from sustainable architecture to cutting-edge smart home technology.

The Dhofar region, known for its lush green landscapes and pristine coastline, offers a distinctive appeal for luxury developments. Salalah, in particular, is poised to benefit from its increasing popularity as a year-round destination. The Khareef season, which attracts tourists with its cool climate and stunning natural beauty, provides an ideal environment for high-end real estate projects designed to offer both comfort and exclusivity.

Mira Coral Bay, the flagship development, is expected to feature world-class amenities, including bespoke residences, upscale retail spaces, and recreational facilities, all designed to cater to the discerning tastes of luxury buyers. The development will incorporate sustainable practices, aligning with Mira Developments’ commitment to environmental responsibility. The company has also indicated that its approach will prioritise creating harmonious, eco-friendly communities that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings of Salalah.

Real estate experts have noted that the luxury property market in Oman is ripe for development, particularly in regions like Dhofar. With its stunning landscapes and growing infrastructure, Salalah offers an attractive proposition for high-end investors looking for new opportunities outside of the more saturated markets in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The entry of Mira Developments into the Omani market is seen as a significant endorsement of the potential of Salalah as a luxury destination, and the project is expected to attract both regional and international investors.

While Mira Developments’ focus is on luxury properties, its broader vision extends beyond just creating high-end residences. The company aims to shape the future of luxury living by fostering innovation and collaborating with leading experts across industries. Through its strategic expansions, Mira Developments is positioning itself as a key player in the future of real estate development in the GCC region.