The UAE’s initial public offering (IPO) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing investor confidence, regulatory reforms, and a supportive macroeconomic environment. While Saudi Arabia led the region with eight IPOs raising $637 million in the third quarter of 2025, the UAE’s momentum is underpinned by its strengthening ecosystem, including expanding market depth, new sector participation, and enhanced regulatory frameworks. These factors have broadened both issuer and investor bases, solidifying the UAE’s position as a leading IPO destination outside Asia. High-profile listings across sectors such as utilities, real estate, logistics, energy services, and technology have further deepened investor trust. The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) have benefited from government initiatives encouraging state-linked and family-owned enterprises to go public, while private-sector firms are increasingly exploring listings as part of their expansion strategies. Liquidity in UAE equity markets has also improved, driven by increased institutional investor participation and sovereign fund activity. The ADX, in particular, has attracted strong international inflows due to large-cap issuances and enhanced trading infrastructure, while the DFM has seen renewed retail participation. Compelling valuations, steady dividend policies, and earnings visibility have bolstered market confidence. The third quarter of 2025 saw robust performance across regional indices, with the MSCI Emerging Markets Index rising 25%, Egypt’s EGX30 Index gaining 23.3%, and Kuwait’s Premier Market Index climbing 19.6%. These gains highlight investor resilience amid global macroeconomic uncertainty, with the UAE emerging as a stable and predictable market for long-term regional growth exposure. A diverse range of sectors, including infrastructure contracting, education services, energy logistics, advanced manufacturing, technology, and consumer services, are preparing for public offerings, signaling a broader regional capital formation trend. Regulatory reforms, such as updated corporate governance rules in the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s adjustments to market-making regulations, have enhanced market attractiveness and transparency. The UAE’s IPO narrative aligns with its economic diversification strategy, supporting private-sector growth, deepening liquidity pools, and channeling domestic savings into productive investments. With a healthy IPO pipeline, strong regulatory momentum, and improving liquidity, the UAE’s capital markets are poised to remain a key driver of regional investment activity and corporate growth, solidifying its position as a rising global capital market hub.
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Emma Thompson recalls ‘annoying’ experience with AI and technology
Acclaimed actress and screenwriter Emma Thompson recently expressed her exasperation with artificial intelligence and its intrusion into her creative process. During an appearance on ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,’ Thompson candidly shared her disdain for AI, labeling it as ‘annoying.’ She emphasized her preference for traditional writing methods, stating, ‘I write longhand on a pad because I believe there is a connection between the brain and the hand.’ Thompson revealed her irritation with modern technology, particularly Microsoft Word’s AI-driven suggestions to rewrite her work, which she vehemently rejected. She recounted a past incident where her computer inexplicably transformed her Oscar-winning screenplay for ‘Sense and Sensibility’ into hieroglyphs, causing her significant distress. Despite the help of friend Stephen Fry, who spent hours attempting to recover the script, the document emerged as a single, unreadable sentence. Thompson humorously likened the experience to the computer deliberately sabotaging her work, highlighting her ongoing frustration with technological interventions in her craft.
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China Innovation Index up 5.3% in 2024: official data
China’s innovation landscape witnessed significant growth in 2024, as the China Innovation Index surged by 5.3% to reach 174.2, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Wednesday. This upward trajectory underscores the nation’s enhanced innovation capabilities and its pivotal role in reshaping the economic framework. The innovation environment saw marked improvements, driven by increased investment, accelerated innovation output, and stronger economic drivers. Notably, China’s expenditure on basic research soared by 10.7% year-on-year to 250.09 billion yuan ($35.3 billion), maintaining a robust double-digit growth rate. The proportion of basic research in total R&D spending hit a record high of 6.88%. Additionally, the number of invention patents granted in China rose by 13.5% to 1.05 million, reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering intellectual property development. The ‘three new’ economy—encompassing new industries, new business formats, and new models—accounted for 18.01% of China’s GDP, up 0.43 percentage points from 2023, further highlighting the transformative impact of innovation on the economy.
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It’s APEC time – Global spotlight on Gyeongju
The global spotlight is firmly fixed on Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, as it hosts the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. This year’s event brings together 21 economies, not merely to discuss economic growth but to collaboratively shape the future of the region. Key themes dominating the agenda include artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and energy transition, all of which underscore the transformative potential of innovation and sustainability. The summit emphasizes connectivity as a driving force for shared prosperity, marking a pivotal moment in the Asia-Pacific’s journey toward a new era of cooperation. Adding to the excitement, China is set to host APEC in 2026, promising further developments in regional collaboration. The event highlights the region’s commitment to addressing global challenges while fostering economic and technological advancements. As leaders and policymakers convene, the world watches closely to see how these discussions will translate into actionable strategies for a more interconnected and sustainable future.
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Hurricane Melissa – what we know about the damage in Jamaica
Jamaica is currently facing the daunting task of evaluating the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. Authorities are working tirelessly to gauge the full extent of the destruction, as social media platforms flood with harrowing images and videos showcasing the storm’s aftermath. The hurricane, which recently swept through the region, has left a trail of devastation, prompting urgent response efforts from both local and international aid organizations. While official reports are still being compiled, the visual evidence circulating online paints a grim picture of the widespread impact on infrastructure, homes, and communities. The Jamaican government has called for calm and cooperation as they prioritize rescue and relief operations. Meanwhile, residents are urged to remain cautious and avoid affected areas until safety assessments are completed. The long-term implications of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica’s economy and environment remain uncertain, but the immediate focus is on providing essential support to those in need.
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Stranger Things comes to UAE: Opening date, tickets; all you need to know
Fans of the hit Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ in the UAE are in for a treat as ‘Stranger Things: The Experience’ makes its Middle Eastern debut at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Opening on November 14, 2025, this immersive attraction will transport visitors into the eerie yet captivating world of Hawkins, Indiana, just ahead of the release of the show’s fifth and final season in late November. The experience promises to blend cutting-edge technology, live actors, and elaborate sets to create an unforgettable journey through the beloved series. Attendees will step into Hawkins Lab, interact with iconic characters like Eleven and Dustin, and even unlock their own powers to battle Vecna in a unique storyline. The adventure culminates in a vibrant ‘Mix-Tape’ zone, celebrating the show’s ’80s nostalgia with themed food, photo opportunities, and exclusive merchandise. Tickets, starting at Dh75, go on sale on November 4, with the experience running through February 15, 2026. The attraction is open Thursday to Sunday, with recommended timings for families and children aged 5 and above. This event marks a significant milestone for entertainment in the region, offering fans a chance to dive deeper into the ‘Stranger Things’ universe.
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IAME UAE Series Round 2–3 deliver thrilling weekend at Dubai Kartdrome
The IAME UAE Series 2025/2026 season reached new heights during a thrilling double-header weekend at Dubai Kartdrome, hosting Round 2 on October 18 and Round 3 on October 19. The event, marked by scorching temperatures and intense competition, showcased the burgeoning talent of young drivers across multiple categories. Founded in Italy in 1968, IAME has become a global leader in kart engine manufacturing, with its UAE chapter spearheaded by Sheikh Waleed Al Qassimi. As the owner of RAK Track and president of IAME UAE, Sheikh Waleed has been instrumental in fostering a world-class motorsport ecosystem in the region. The weekend’s races were a testament to the sport’s growing popularity, drawing competitors and fans from across the GCC and beyond. Round 3, in particular, delivered nail-biting action across five categories. In the Bambino Class, Sam Testa secured a hard-fought victory, while Baptiste Augustin triumphed in the Mini Category. Leonidas Peruzzi continued his dominance in the Junior Class, and Youif Busenad clinched a dramatic win in the Senior/170 Category. Maximillian Dexter rounded out the weekend with a victory in the Senior Class. Sheikh Waleed Al Qassimi praised the event, highlighting the remarkable progress of karting in the UAE and the bright future ahead. With the Dubai rounds concluded, the championship now heads to Sharjah Kart Track for the next leg of this fiercely competitive season.
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England out of World Cup after South Africa thrashing
In a stunning display of skill and determination, South Africa’s women’s cricket team triumphed over England by 125 runs in the ICC Women’s World Cup semi-final held in Guwahati. This victory marks South Africa’s first-ever entry into a World Cup final in either men’s or women’s cricket. The Proteas posted an imposing total of 319-7, largely thanks to a phenomenal innings by Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 169 runs off 143 balls. Wolvaardt’s masterclass in 50-over batting was complemented by Marizanne Kapp’s sensational bowling performance, where she claimed 5 wickets for just 20 runs. England, chasing a record target in a knockout game, crumbled under pressure, being bowled out for 194 in 42.3 overs. Despite a valiant effort from Nat Sciver-Brunt, who scored 64 runs, England’s top order collapsed early, with three batters dismissed for ducks. South Africa’s comprehensive performance was a testament to their resilience and strategic brilliance, setting up a final clash against either India or Australia. This historic win not only avenges South Africa’s previous semi-final losses to England but also cements their place as a formidable force in women’s cricket.
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Expo boosts Sino-Africa relations
The 2025 Africa International Agricultural Expo, held from October 28 to 31 in Nairobi, Kenya, has emerged as a pivotal event in fostering Sino-Africa cooperation in agriculture. As Africa grapples with food insecurity and strives to build resilient agricultural systems, the expo has provided a platform for policymakers, investors, researchers, and farmers to exchange innovations, explore business opportunities, and establish partnerships. Organized by Hunan Hongxing International Exhibition and Agri-Africa Exhibition, with support from Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, the event has drawn over 150 exhibitors and 100 international delegations, marking a significant step in positioning Kenya as a regional hub for agri-business and innovation. Kipronoh Ronoh, principal secretary in Kenya’s State Department of Agriculture, highlighted the expo’s role in promoting innovation, technology adoption, and market access as key drivers of agricultural transformation. Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, emphasized Africa’s untapped agricultural potential, citing its fertile land, year-round sunshine, and youthful population. However, she acknowledged the continent’s challenges, including limited access to technology, financing, and markets, as well as the impacts of climate change. Drawing parallels to China’s agricultural transformation over the past five decades, Guo expressed China’s commitment to sharing its expertise in innovation, technology transfer, and market reforms to support Africa’s agricultural development. The expo underscores the growing agricultural partnership between China and Africa, reflecting a shared vision for sustainable growth and food security.
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UK to provide £2.5m in support to Jamaica after hurricane
The UK has pledged £2.5 million in emergency humanitarian funding to Jamaica in the wake of the catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) announced the aid package, which includes essential supplies such as shelter kits, water filters, and blankets. Additionally, UK relief teams and technical experts have been deployed to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. During Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer expressed deep concern over the ‘truly shocking’ scenes of destruction emerging from Jamaica. The UK has also pre-positioned the naval vessel HMS Trent in the region to provide further support. With an estimated 8,000 British nationals in Jamaica, the FCDO has urged them to register their presence for updates and assistance. A specialist consular team has been dispatched to Miami to aid affected British citizens. Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 3 storm, initially struck Jamaica’s southern coast with winds reaching 295 km/h (185 mph), surpassing the intensity of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm has left three-quarters of the island without power, flooded vast areas, and caused significant damage to homes, hospitals, and businesses. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the island a ‘disaster area,’ warning of ongoing severe impacts. Families in the UK have struggled to contact loved ones in Jamaica, with many reporting failed communication attempts. The National Hurricane Center has warned of continued heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and landslides, particularly in mountainous regions, which could persist into Wednesday night.