August 3, 2025

Iran’s parliament has voted to authorize closure of the Strait of Hormuz if necessary, escalating geopolitical risks. Closing this key chokepoint (through which 20–25% of global oil and LNG pass) could sharply disrupt global energy markets—fuelling potential oil price spikes and inflation ravaging economies.  Source: reuters.com

Rain, the first regulated cryptocurrency exchange in the Middle East (established in Bahrain), has gained approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market’s FSRA, enabling it to serve UAE asset managers. Dawned as the region’s trailblazer in regulatory-compliant crypto services.  Source: reuters.com

HSBC’s 2025 Affluent Investor Report shows that wealthy UAE clients have reduced cash holdings to just 13%—well below the global average. Instead, 57% intend to invest in gold, including tokenized bullion, driven by rising bullion prices, financial innovation, and diversification strategies.  Source: gulf news

The UAE Central Bank has introduced the Digital Dirham, a legal-tender central bank digital currency built on blockchain. Not classified as crypto, it offers instant, low-cost payments and remittances, smart-contract functionality, and full traceability. Expected to roll out across banks, fintechs, and mobile wallets by late 2025. Source: gulf news

A recent Reuters poll (July 15–28) forecasts accelerated growth across GCC states this year—Saudi Arabia expected to expand 3.8%, UAE 4.8%, and Qatar surging from 2.7% in 2025 to 5.4% in 2026, thanks to LNG developments. Omanand Kuwait are also set to hit multi-year highs, while Bahrain remains more stable. Economists cite higher oil output, increased diversification efforts, and modest inflation (1.0–2.5%) as