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MEXC, a prominent digital asset exchange, has accelerated its stablecoin expansion strategy after acquiring $20 million worth of USDe tokens, marking a notable milestone as its stablecoin ecosystem surpasses a $100 million total value locked . This move signals a determined push by MEXC to strengthen its position in the increasingly competitive stablecoin market and further diversify its crypto offerings.

The $20 million USDe acquisition represents a calculated effort to bolster liquidity and adoption of stablecoins pegged to the US dollar, which have become vital in reducing volatility within the cryptocurrency sector. Stablecoins like USDe offer users a more reliable medium of exchange and store of value compared to traditional cryptocurrencies, which can experience dramatic price swings. MEXC’s increasing focus on stablecoins aligns with global trends where institutional and retail investors seek safer avenues for digital asset investment amid regulatory uncertainties and market fluctuations.

Beyond the recent purchase of USDe, MEXC’s stablecoin portfolio has seen sustained growth, pushing the platform’s total stablecoin value locked to exceed $100 million. This figure reflects the combined assets users have committed within MEXC’s stablecoin ecosystem, encompassing liquidity pools, staking, and yield farming products. The growing TVL not only underscores user confidence but also enhances the exchange’s capacity to support high-volume trading and DeFi activities anchored by stablecoins.

MEXC’s engagement in the stablecoin space builds upon its earlier strategic $16 million investment in Ethena, a notable innovator specialising in stablecoin technology and ecosystem development. Ethena’s platform focuses on creating programmable, algorithmic stablecoins that aim to maintain price stability through decentralised governance and dynamic supply adjustments. By backing Ethena, MEXC has positioned itself at the forefront of stablecoin innovation, tapping into emerging technologies that could redefine how digital currencies achieve and sustain their peg.

The decision to invest heavily in USDe and Ethena also comes amid rising competition among exchanges and financial platforms seeking to capture market share in stablecoin issuance and trading. Major players like Tether , USD Coin , and Binance USD dominate market capitalization, but newer tokens like USDe have gained traction through enhanced transparency, regulatory compliance, and blockchain interoperability. MEXC’s adoption of USDe highlights its intent to diversify beyond the dominant incumbents, offering users alternatives that may align better with evolving regulatory frameworks.

Industry experts note that the integration of stablecoins into broader financial systems remains a critical driver for crypto adoption. Stablecoins facilitate cross-border payments, remittances, and decentralised finance applications with reduced friction and costs compared to fiat-based mechanisms. MEXC’s strategy of expanding its stablecoin offerings enhances its utility as a hub for such financial activities, making it attractive to a wider range of traders and developers.

Regulatory clarity surrounding stablecoins has varied globally, with some jurisdictions imposing stringent requirements while others promote innovation-friendly policies. MEXC, headquartered in Seychelles with a growing international presence, has adapted to this shifting landscape by aligning its stablecoin partnerships with platforms like Ethena that emphasise compliance and governance transparency. This approach aims to pre-empt potential regulatory hurdles and establish MEXC as a responsible player in the digital currency ecosystem.

The growth in MEXC’s TVL also corresponds with increased user engagement in decentralised finance products facilitated by stablecoins. Yield farming and staking opportunities offered on the platform encourage users to lock their assets in exchange for rewards, helping to boost liquidity and network activity. These products often depend on stablecoins to mitigate risk, offering participants a balance between yield generation and capital preservation.

Market analysts observe that the stablecoin sector is poised for further expansion as demand for digital dollar substitutes rises. Factors such as increasing institutional interest, the rise of central bank digital currencies , and the ongoing integration of blockchain technology into mainstream finance all contribute to stablecoins becoming indispensable in the crypto landscape. MEXC’s proactive steps to expand its stablecoin infrastructure may provide a competitive advantage as these trends accelerate.

The $100 million TVL milestone not only demonstrates MEXC’s capability to attract substantial user funds but also reflects confidence in the exchange’s technical infrastructure and security protocols. Ensuring safe custody and seamless transactions is crucial for stablecoin platforms, given the heightened regulatory scrutiny and user concerns over fraud and hacking incidents in the sector.

MEXC’s roadmap indicates continued efforts to broaden its stablecoin offerings, with potential plans to incorporate additional tokens and enhance cross-chain compatibility. This would enable users to transact stablecoins across multiple blockchain networks, facilitating greater interoperability and expanding MEXC’s reach within the decentralised finance space.

The exchange also plans to deepen its collaboration with DeFi projects and developers, positioning stablecoins as a foundational component for innovative financial products. This aligns with broader industry movements where stablecoins serve as the backbone for lending protocols, decentralised exchanges, and payment solutions.

The manufacturing landscape in India is undergoing a profound transformation as nearly all major players invest heavily in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. This shift reflects a strategic focus on boosting operational efficiency, driving business impact, and advancing sustainability goals. An extensive survey by Rockwell Automation reveals that Indian manufacturers are rapidly adopting AI and ML to remain competitive in a global marketplace increasingly dominated by digital innovation.

Manufacturers across India are leveraging AI and ML to optimise production processes, reduce costs, and enhance product quality. The integration of these technologies into factory operations enables predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and automation of complex tasks. This leads to minimising downtime, improving yield, and accelerating time-to-market. Industrial leaders cite AI and ML as essential tools for unlocking value amid rising raw material prices and supply chain uncertainties.

The adoption rates in India closely mirror global trends but stand out for the intensity of focus on sustainability. AI-driven analytics allow manufacturers to significantly cut energy consumption and waste, contributing to environmental goals aligned with international standards and India’s own climate commitments. Companies are deploying smart sensors and AI algorithms to monitor emissions and optimise resource use, which is crucial as regulatory pressures tighten and consumer expectations evolve.

Executives in India report that their investment in AI and ML technologies is yielding measurable returns. Data from the Rockwell Automation survey indicates that over 90% of respondents observe improved operational performance attributable to these digital initiatives. Furthermore, nearly three-quarters affirm that their AI-driven strategies have enhanced decision-making speed and accuracy, facilitating quicker responses to market demands and disruptions.

The Indian government’s push to encourage digital adoption in manufacturing, through initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and the National Strategy on AI, complements corporate efforts. Policy frameworks supporting Industry 4.0 advancements, including financial incentives and infrastructure development, have accelerated the uptake of AI and ML technologies. This alignment between public policy and private sector ambition has created a fertile environment for innovation in the manufacturing ecosystem.

Several sectors within Indian manufacturing stand to benefit disproportionately from AI and ML integration. Automotive, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods producers are early adopters, capitalising on AI’s ability to optimise supply chains, enhance product customisation, and improve quality control. For example, AI algorithms can predict demand patterns more accurately, enabling just-in-time inventory management that reduces excess stock and associated costs.

While enthusiasm for AI and ML is high, manufacturers face challenges in implementation. Shortages of skilled personnel who can develop and maintain AI systems are common, necessitating investment in workforce training and collaboration with technology providers. Cybersecurity remains a critical concern, as increased digital connectivity opens potential vulnerabilities. Firms are therefore balancing rapid technology deployment with robust risk management strategies to safeguard intellectual property and operational integrity.

The evolving role of AI and ML in manufacturing also raises questions about labour dynamics. Automation driven by these technologies has the potential to displace routine manual jobs but also creates opportunities for higher-skilled employment in areas such as data science, system maintenance, and process optimisation. Industry leaders emphasise the need for reskilling initiatives to ensure the workforce adapts to the demands of a more digitally integrated manufacturing sector.

Investors and technology companies are taking notice of India’s growing appetite for AI and ML in manufacturing. Partnerships between domestic manufacturers and global tech firms are expanding, bringing access to advanced AI platforms and expertise. Indian startups specialising in industrial AI solutions are gaining traction, offering innovative products tailored to the unique challenges of Indian factories, such as managing variable power supply and legacy equipment integration.

The emphasis on sustainability powered by AI is gaining traction beyond regulatory compliance. Indian manufacturers recognise that eco-friendly operations can enhance brand value and meet the expectations of increasingly conscious consumers worldwide. Technologies that track carbon footprints, water usage, and waste generation help firms align with global environmental, social, and governance criteria, which are becoming decisive factors for international trade and investment.

As AI and ML technologies mature, their influence on Indian manufacturing’s competitive edge is expected to deepen. Automation of routine tasks frees human workers to focus on innovation and complex problem-solving, potentially accelerating product development cycles and enabling mass customisation. Real-time data analytics empower firms to respond nimbly to market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions, a critical advantage amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority has entered into a strategic partnership with SuiHub MENA, the regional arm of the Sui blockchain ecosystem, to bolster the emirate’s position as a global hub for virtual assets. The collaboration aims to support emerging startups, nurture local talent, and provide regulatory guidance within the blockchain sector.

The agreement, formalised earlier this week, outlines a multifaceted approach to ecosystem development. Key initiatives include jointly hosted workshops to assist startups in navigating Dubai’s licensing regime, educational programs to cultivate local expertise in blockchain technology, and the establishment of advisory sessions to offer compliance support. These efforts are designed to streamline the path to market for new ventures and enhance the overall maturity of the virtual asset landscape in the region.

SuiHub MENA’s innovation centre in Dubai will serve as the focal point for these activities, with VARA providing strategic support through roundtables and engagements with government stakeholders. The partnership also encompasses collaborative research opportunities aimed at informing future virtual asset policies and contributing to the sustainable growth of the sector.

This alliance follows a similar memorandum of understanding signed between VARA and the Solana Foundation, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for blockchain innovation. By aligning regulatory clarity with technological advancement, these partnerships underscore the emirate’s proactive stance in embracing the potential of virtual assets while ensuring robust governance frameworks are in place.

Thailand’s tourism industry continues to grapple with significant challenges despite the temporary surge in visitor interest linked to the popularity of HBO’s hit series set on Koh Samui. The so-called “White Lotus effect” sparked a modest increase in Western tourists drawn by the picturesque island backdrop of the show. However, this spike has failed to reverse the broader downward trend that has gripped the sector, which remains weighed down by a complex mix of economic, geopolitical, and structural factors.

Tourism, which historically accounted for approximately 20% of Thailand’s GDP, has not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. The government’s ambitious targets for visitor arrivals have consistently fallen short, with numbers lagging due to a combination of diminished demand from key markets, lingering travel restrictions in some regions, and competition from neighbouring countries aggressively courting tourists with attractive packages and incentives.

Koh Samui, often portrayed as a tropical paradise in the series, experienced an influx of curious travellers eager to visit the filming locations. Hotels and local businesses reported short-term gains, but these have proven insufficient to restore the overall health of the industry. Analysts note that the White Lotus effect highlights the growing influence of media and entertainment in shaping travel preferences but also underscores the limitations of relying on such ephemeral boosts without broader strategic support.

The pandemic fundamentally altered global travel behaviours, accelerating trends towards more cautious spending and preference for less crowded destinations. Additionally, the economic slowdown and inflationary pressures in Western countries have tightened discretionary budgets for leisure travel, further curbing outbound flows. Thailand, which relies heavily on long-haul visitors from Europe, North America, and Australia, has thus found itself at a disadvantage amid shifting global economic dynamics.

Geopolitical tensions in Southeast Asia and stricter visa and entry policies in response to health concerns have deterred potential visitors. While Thailand has progressively eased COVID-19 restrictions, some travellers remain wary of changing regulations and the unpredictability of travel protocols. This uncertainty contrasts with competitors like Vietnam and Malaysia, which have implemented more streamlined border policies to attract tourists.

The country’s tourism infrastructure also faces scrutiny. Despite being a longstanding favourite destination, several regions struggle with overdevelopment, environmental degradation, and inconsistent service standards. These issues have sparked calls for more sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term viability. Efforts to diversify tourism offerings beyond beach resorts, such as promoting eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and wellness retreats, are gaining traction but require substantial investment and coherent policy frameworks to achieve scale.

The Thai government has responded with a series of incentives aimed at reviving the sector. These include marketing campaigns targeting emerging markets such as China, India, and the Middle East, where outbound travel is expected to grow. Subsidies and financial support for local businesses, infrastructure upgrades, and training programmes for hospitality workers form part of the recovery blueprint. Nonetheless, experts caution that the benefits of these measures will manifest gradually and hinge on geopolitical stability and global economic recovery.

Tourism operators highlight that the industry’s challenges extend beyond attracting visitors to addressing the quality of the visitor experience and the sustainability of growth. For example, concerns about overtourism in some hotspots have led to overcrowding and resource depletion, while lesser-known regions struggle to attract sufficient attention and investment. This imbalance has prompted calls for a more balanced approach that spreads economic benefits more evenly across the country.

Foreign direct investment in the tourism sector remains muted compared with previous years, reflecting broader investor caution about global economic uncertainties. The depreciation of the Thai baht has had mixed effects; while it makes the destination more affordable for foreign tourists, it also raises costs for imported goods and services crucial to the hospitality industry. Inflationary pressures on food, energy, and labour add to the operational challenges faced by businesses seeking to maintain profitability while keeping prices competitive.

Labour shortages persist as well, with many workers leaving the tourism sector during the pandemic to pursue alternative employment. This has led to difficulties in maintaining service quality and meeting seasonal demand peaks. The government has encouraged re-skilling and vocational training programmes, but the gap remains significant, especially in rural and less-developed areas.

Industry analysts point to the need for a comprehensive long-term strategy that integrates tourism with broader economic and social development goals. This would include embracing digital transformation to enhance marketing, customer engagement, and operational efficiency, as well as fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors to ensure resilience against future shocks.

Thailand’s brand as a travel destination continues to enjoy global recognition for its natural beauty, rich culture, and culinary appeal. However, sustaining this reputation requires ongoing adaptation to evolving traveller expectations, global trends, and environmental imperatives. While the White Lotus series has brought some renewed attention to specific locales, the industry’s recovery depends on deeper structural reforms and coordinated efforts at multiple levels.

The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have cemented a series of bilateral agreements designed to enhance collaboration across vital sectors such as health, energy, education, and defence. These agreements were formalised during an official visit by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Bayan Palace, where Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah also presided over the signing ceremony.

This diplomatic engagement reflects a shared commitment to deepen economic and political cooperation amid a shifting geopolitical landscape in the Gulf region. Both nations seek to leverage their strategic partnership to accelerate development goals and bolster regional stability.

The agreements encompass a broad spectrum of cooperation frameworks. In healthcare, the MoUs aim to facilitate joint initiatives in medical research, health services, and pandemic preparedness. This builds upon existing efforts to enhance public health infrastructure and improve access to advanced medical technologies within both countries. The collaboration is expected to include exchanges of expertise and the establishment of joint health projects, reinforcing resilience against future health crises.

Energy cooperation constitutes a central pillar of the accord, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable development and energy diversification in Gulf policies. Both nations have expressed intent to collaborate on clean energy projects, including renewable energy deployment and energy efficiency programmes. This aligns with wider regional ambitions to reduce carbon footprints and accelerate the energy transition, tapping into solar, wind, and hydrogen potential. The partnership aims to foster knowledge-sharing, joint investments, and innovation in sustainable energy technologies, signalling a clear move away from traditional hydrocarbon dependency.

Education and innovation sectors also feature prominently in the agreements. Kuwait and the UAE plan to develop cooperative education programmes, facilitate student and academic exchanges, and promote joint research ventures. These initiatives target strengthening human capital and nurturing a knowledge-based economy, crucial for long-term competitiveness. Special focus is placed on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, areas recognised for their transformative potential across industries.

Defence collaboration marks another significant dimension of the bilateral ties, with both countries pledging closer coordination in security and military affairs. This includes enhanced training cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises aimed at improving operational readiness and countering emerging threats in a volatile regional security environment.

Investment and infrastructure development feature heavily within the broader strategic framework. The agreements envisage boosting trade flows, encouraging cross-border investments, and facilitating infrastructure projects. These measures are expected to unlock economic opportunities, create jobs, and support broader Gulf Cooperation Council integration efforts.

Social development has not been overlooked, with the accords setting the stage for cooperative efforts in social welfare, cultural exchange, and community development. This demonstrates a recognition that sustainable progress extends beyond economic growth to encompass social cohesion and quality of life improvements.

This series of MoUs signals a concerted effort by the UAE and Kuwait to consolidate their partnership amid evolving regional and global dynamics. Both nations are navigating complex challenges, including economic diversification pressures, climate change imperatives, and shifting geopolitical alliances. The agreements reflect a proactive strategy to leverage bilateral cooperation as a stabilising and growth-enhancing force.

The visit by Sheikh Mansour underscores the UAE’s broader diplomatic outreach in the Gulf, aimed at strengthening ties with neighbouring states while advancing shared priorities. Kuwait, meanwhile, views this enhanced partnership as vital for reinforcing its role in regional affairs and securing avenues for economic resilience.

Experts note that such collaborations between Gulf states are increasingly critical as they face mounting global competition and internal transformation demands. By pooling resources, expertise, and political will, the UAE and Kuwait position themselves to address mutual challenges more effectively and harness new opportunities.

This development follows a pattern of intensified Gulf collaboration that has gained momentum following shifts in regional geopolitics. Enhanced bilateral relations are viewed as key to ensuring collective security and economic prosperity, particularly amid external uncertainties and emerging global power dynamics.

The agreements also reflect a clear alignment with the strategic visions of both countries, which prioritise innovation, sustainability, and regional integration. As the Gulf states pursue diversification and modernisation agendas, such partnerships become essential tools for advancing these objectives.

While the full scope and impact of the signed agreements will unfold over time, the foundations laid in this visit mark a significant milestone. The emphasis on critical sectors such as healthcare, clean energy, education, and defence highlights the comprehensive nature of the partnership.

Dubai Future District Fund has reported securing over $1.65 billion in capital commitments and supporting more than 190 startups, marking a significant milestone in its mission to bolster the emirate’s innovation ecosystem.

Anchored by the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Dubai Future Foundation , DFDF unveiled these achievements at its Annual General Meeting, reflecting its alignment with Dubai’s economic vision and commitment to fostering a resilient innovation landscape.

In 2024, DFDF expanded its portfolio through direct investments and 12 Fund of Funds initiatives, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda to advance technology, talent, and venture capital in the region.

His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, Chairman of DFDF’s Board and CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, emphasized the fund’s role in driving the growth of Dubai’s digital economy, highlighting its focus on innovation and future technologies across key sectors.

Beyond capital allocation, DFDF engaged in strategic partnerships with entities like Dubai Land Department and Dubai Health, exploring innovation collaborations that align government priorities with startup-driven solutions.

Nader Albastaki, Managing Director at DFDF, noted that 2024 was pivotal for the fund, scaling investments and supporting innovators driving meaningful change. He expressed enthusiasm for 2025, designated as the Year of the Community, focusing on deeper collaboration and ecosystem resilience.

DFDF’s investment strategy involves deploying capital into venture capital funds with a local focus and directly into startups, aiming to boost venture capital investing and business activity in Dubai and the region.

The fund’s commitment to sustainability was underscored by allocating up to 20% of its AED 1 billion fund to climate technology and innovation, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for economic diversification and sustainable development.

Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority and DFDF Board Member, highlighted the fund’s dedication to driving growth and supporting sustainability-focused tech ventures, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in cultivating innovation.

DFDF’s efforts contribute to Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a global technology and innovation hub, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for global talent and entrepreneurship.

South Korea has witnessed the first notable instance of an institutional investor divesting cryptocurrency assets following the government’s decision to lift its long-standing ban on crypto trading by financial institutions. This marks a significant moment in the country’s evolving digital asset landscape, as regulatory shifts continue to reshape market dynamics and investor behaviour.

The institution in question, a major South Korean asset management firm, has reportedly sold off a substantial portion of its cryptocurrency portfolio. This move comes amid growing caution within the sector, despite regulatory relaxation intended to encourage wider institutional participation. Analysts suggest that the sale signals a pragmatic reassessment by financial entities, weighing regulatory clarity against market volatility and emerging geopolitical risks.

South Korea’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation has long been characterised by stringent restrictions designed to curb speculation and protect investors. The ban on crypto holdings by institutional investors, introduced several years ago, effectively excluded major banks, pension funds, and asset managers from direct crypto market involvement. This policy, aimed at stabilising the financial system, has limited the scale and scope of institutional crypto activity compared to other leading markets.

However, government authorities have recently signalled a more open stance, allowing institutions to hold and trade digital assets under stricter compliance and transparency frameworks. The removal of the ban reflects a broader effort to position South Korea as a competitive hub for blockchain technology and crypto innovation while addressing investor protection concerns. Regulatory bodies have emphasised enhanced due diligence, anti-money laundering measures, and consumer safeguards as prerequisites for institutional engagement.

Despite the regulatory easing, the initial institutional response appears cautious. The divestment by the asset management firm highlights lingering uncertainties, including the lack of comprehensive global regulatory harmonisation and fluctuating crypto valuations. Financial executives involved in the transaction point to increased scrutiny from compliance teams and internal risk committees, which have recommended a more conservative stance amid the unpredictability of crypto markets.

Market observers note that institutional investors have been closely monitoring international regulatory developments, including regulatory crackdowns in major economies such as the United States and the European Union. These external pressures, combined with domestic regulatory adaptations, create a complex environment where institutional players must balance opportunity with risk management.

South Korea’s crypto market itself continues to show robust retail participation, with local exchanges reporting increased trading volumes and new account openings. However, institutional activity remains limited, constrained by cautious regulatory interpretations and the need for clearer operational guidelines. Industry insiders indicate that infrastructure development, such as secure custody solutions and regulatory-approved trading platforms, will be critical to attracting sustained institutional capital.

The government’s gradual liberalisation has also been accompanied by initiatives to bolster blockchain technology development and related financial products. South Korean regulators are promoting pilot projects and innovation hubs, fostering partnerships between traditional finance firms and crypto startups. These efforts aim to build an ecosystem that supports not only trading but also tokenisation, decentralized finance applications, and digital asset custody.

Analysts highlight the importance of regulatory certainty for institutional confidence. The absence of clear rules has historically driven many South Korean financial institutions to adopt a wait-and-see approach, fearing potential legal repercussions and reputational damage. The recent institutional exit underscores the delicate balance regulators must maintain between fostering innovation and imposing adequate safeguards.

Investor sentiment is further influenced by macroeconomic factors, including global interest rate trends, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions impacting asset flows. Cryptocurrency’s volatility relative to traditional assets remains a key consideration for institutional portfolio managers. Many firms are adopting phased approaches, initiating pilot crypto investments or forming dedicated teams to evaluate blockchain’s long-term potential before committing substantial capital.

The South Korean government’s broader digital finance strategy integrates cryptocurrency within its fintech agenda, aiming to create a sustainable and regulated market environment. However, achieving widespread institutional adoption will require ongoing dialogue with industry stakeholders, continuous regulatory refinement, and enhanced transparency mechanisms.

The current institutional crypto divestment could serve as a valuable indicator for regulators and market participants alike, revealing the challenges and reservations that remain despite policy shifts. Financial institutions appear to be navigating a transitional period, balancing innovation enthusiasm with prudent risk controls.

PureHealth, the Middle East’s largest healthcare group, has announced that its total investment in locally sourced goods and services has reached AED 2.25 billion, reinforcing its commitment to the UAE’s National In-Country Value Programme. This milestone was highlighted during the 2025 edition of the “Make it in the Emirates” initiative, underscoring the group’s dedication to enhancing the nation’s industrial and healthcare sectors.

In 2024 alone, PureHealth channelled AED 1 billion into the national economy, marking a 38% increase compared to the previous year. This significant uptick aligns with the UAE’s strategic objectives to localise supply chains, promote national enterprises, and accelerate economic diversification.

Since joining the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s ICV Programme in 2022, PureHealth has set an ambitious target to allocate AED 13 billion towards local procurement by 2032. The group’s efforts are in tandem with the UAE’s broader industrial strategy, which aims to elevate the industrial sector’s GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031.

Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth, emphasised the long-term vision behind this investment, stating, “By advancing our In-Country Value goals, we are localising critical supply chains, supporting homegrown innovation, and enabling the development of advanced healthcare manufacturing capabilities. This is not just about meeting today’s needs, but building a sustainable, self-sufficient healthcare system that serves UAE communities for generations to come while supporting the nation’s economic and industrial ambitions.”

The group’s commitment is evident in the strong ICV performance across its subsidiaries. Abu Dhabi Health Services Company holds the highest ICV score in the UAE healthcare sector at 81.13%, while Daman, the leading health insurer, ranks second in the UAE insurance sector with a score of 71.86%. Additionally, PureLab and The Medical Office have secured their ICV certifications, and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City is expected to receive its certification later this year, moving the group closer to full compliance.

Leya Al Damani, Chief Sustainability Officer at PureHealth, highlighted the synergy between sustainability and localisation, noting, “Through partnerships with UAE-based suppliers that share our environmental and quality standards, we are creating long-term value that benefits both our healthcare system and the national economy. The National In-Country Value Programme gives us a powerful framework to scale this impact measurably and responsibly, while also fostering a supportive environment for the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises across the country.”

The Monetary Authority of Singapore has mandated that all locally based digital token service providers without a valid license must cease offering services to overseas clients by 30 June 2025. This directive, issued without a transitional grace period, underscores Singapore’s commitment to aligning with global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards.

Under the Financial Services and Markets Act , entities operating from Singapore and providing digital token services abroad are required to obtain a DTSP license. This regulation applies to both individuals and corporations, regardless of whether they are already licensed under the Payment Services Act or the Securities and Futures Act . The MAS has clarified that exemptions are limited, primarily for technical service providers that do not handle client funds or digital tokens.

The licensing process is stringent, with the MAS indicating approvals will be granted only in exceptional cases. Applicants must demonstrate a sound business model and provide valid reasons for operating from Singapore while serving overseas markets. Minimum requirements include a base capital of SGD 250,000 for companies and partnerships, or a cash deposit of the same amount for individuals. Additionally, firms must have at least one local resident director or partner and maintain a physical office in Singapore with staff present for a minimum of 10 days per month.

Licensed DTSPs are subject to ongoing regulatory obligations, including comprehensive AML/CFT measures such as customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and compliance with value transfer requirements. They must also adhere to standards for technology risk management, cyber hygiene, and business continuity planning. Regular submission of regulatory returns and clear disclosure of risk warnings to customers are mandatory.

The MAS has emphasized that there will be no transitional arrangements for firms currently operating without a license. Entities must halt all overseas digital token services immediately unless they secure the necessary authorization. Failure to comply will result in regulatory penalties.

This move by the MAS reflects a broader effort to prevent regulatory arbitrage and ensure that digital asset service providers operating from Singapore adhere to international standards. By enforcing strict licensing requirements and eliminating transitional leniency, Singapore aims to bolster its reputation as a secure and compliant hub for digital financial services.