In recent times, there has been increasing focus on strengthening governance across companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly listed public joint stock companies. Since its inception, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has been keen on strengthening the legislative structure through their initiatives, issuance of regulations and instructions that further enhance the governance of companies operating in the securities market.

Since its inception, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has been keen on strengthening the legislative structure through its initiatives, issuance of regulations, and instructions that further enhance the governance of companies operating in the securities market.

"Over the last few years, millions in India have started using digital payments, making mobile banking the preferred mode of conducting transactions. The increased adoption of the cashless mode accelerates the pace at which processes, controls, and risk management practices must be enhanced for the smooth functioning of fintech companies and the broader financial ecosystem in India. The regulatory framework for fintech companies in India is primarily governed by the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’), the Securities and Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’), and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (‘IRDAI’). The RBI has issued guidelines and regulations to address various aspects of fintech activities such as digital payments, peer-to-peer lending, and online marketplace lending. In addition to the RBI, SEBI and IRDAI also play a role in regulating fintech activities."

Our inaugural ‘IPO trends’ report for calendar year 2023 summarizes IPO activity in the USA (NYSE and NASDAQ), the Middle East (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia – Tadawul and Nomu), and India (National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange). This report analyzes the volume and value of IPO activity in 2023 for the USA, Middle East, and India, the sectors that dominated this activity, and a view on the post-IPO performance of the companies that raised capital.

In the aftermath of the financial crisis, easing monetary policies provided financially strong companies with access to funding more efficiently and at a lower cost, allowing them to scale up their businesses and finance their merger and acquisition (“M&A”) activities. As a result, there has been a significant surge in the carrying value of accumulated goodwill among major corporations worldwide. This surge in goodwill has been particularly evident during active M&A periods, where acquisition prices tend to be higher.