ME PoV Summer 2023 issue

Swift moves
Download the full issue

About this issue

In the bustling realm of Middle Eastern business, where opportunity dances hand-in-hand with ambition, one must balance out their “swift moves.” And since the business landscape in this region is marked by a relentless pace and a fervent quest for growth, it takes such swift moves to keep up with the tempo. 

Economic growth in the region is palpable. In his article The thriving e-commerce landscape in the Middle East, Dr. Ahmed Hezzah shows how with advancements in technology, changing consumer behavior, and increased internet penetration, e-commerce has emerged as a key driver of economic growth in the region. In The evolving role of finance post IPOs: Shaping the future of finance and the UAE capital markets, Farhad Aklas and Nav Dulay weigh in on the dynamics of the economic landscape and how the UAE has emerged as a prominent destination for initial public offerings (IPOs), reflecting the country’s commitment to foster a robust capital market and attract global investment. 

In Humaid Hussain and Khushnood Khan’s article Is artificial intelligence the new benchmark for financial crime risk management? it becomes apparent how the game of cat and mouse between criminals and regulators has reached unprecedented levels. While the synergistic partnership between AI and financial institutions brings hope for a safer financial landscape, it also raises concerns about the ethical implications of such power. On high alert: The darker side of generative AI, by Ralph Stobwasser and Nicki Koller, emphasizes how in order to mitigate the risks of generative AI, individuals and organizations should drive awareness of these risks alongside the benefits in order to move forward.

As the swift moves of generative AI continue to shape our world, it becomes crucial to address the intricacies of our digital age, according to Govinda Mengji in the article Integrating IoT and blockchain to ensure cyber safety. Cyber security, once a mere afterthought, now intertwines with the very fabric of our everyday lives. 

In addition, and more than ever before, the mantra of "adapt or perish" resonates, propelling businesses to embrace innovation and forge strategic alliances to leave an indelible mark on the ever-evolving business world. This world has become increasingly environmentally conscious as well, and businesses are quick to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainability. However, amidst the hustle for eco-friendly practices, the trend of greenwashing has emerged. Collin W. Keeney looks at this trend in more detail in Too green to be true: When a well-intentioned statement creates a world of risk. 

And finally, COP 28 is just around the corner, and all eyes are on the region for a direction forward to address the global climate agenda. In With COP 28 on the horizon, the time to act in the Middle East is now… by Daniel Gribbin, we see clearly that change is coming and the need to adapt and transition to a low carbon economy is inevitable.

In this world where swift moves dictate our trajectory, it is our responsibility in the end to nurture the positive aspects while navigating the darker corners. 
We hope you enjoy this latest Summer issue of the Middle East Point of View. 

The ME PoV editorial team