logo

SHL Finance renews $509mln Sharia-compliant deal with Saudi's ANB

Zawya03-04-2025

Riyadh – SHL Finance Company has renewed its SAR 1.91 billion Sharia-compliant credit facilities agreement with Arab National Bank (ANB) for five years, according to a bourse disclosure.
The funding, which was obtained on 23 March 2025, aims to support SHL Finance's expansion strategy and boost sales volume, aligning with the company's long-term growth vision.
The facilities agreement is secured by a promissory note for the full amount of the funding, in addition to an assignment of receivables covering 105% of the outstanding balance of the facilities.
It is worth noting that in 2024, SHL Finance reported a 1,040.50% annual jump in net profit after Zakat and income tax to SAR 26.52 million from SAR 2.32 million.
On the other hand, ANB recorded a net profit of SAR 4.96 billion in 2024, reflecting a 21.98% year-on-year (YoY) increase from SAR 4.07 billion.
Source: Mubasher

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Adrien Gagnon and ESDlife Survey Reveals: Nearly 60% Suffer from Both "Trouble Falling Asleep" and "Waking Easily"
Adrien Gagnon and ESDlife Survey Reveals: Nearly 60% Suffer from Both "Trouble Falling Asleep" and "Waking Easily"

Zawya

time2 days ago

  • Zawya

Adrien Gagnon and ESDlife Survey Reveals: Nearly 60% Suffer from Both "Trouble Falling Asleep" and "Waking Easily"

Over 80% of Employees Take Sick Leave Due to Sleep Deprivation; Mondays Are the Most Popular 'Sickie' Days Economic downturn: 91% of respondents feel stressed from work and life 81% report frequent awakenings; 64% have trouble falling asleep – two distinct sleep problems, doctor explain 78% say stress impacts sleep quality 80% hope to resolve both types of sleep problems; 85% seek long-term sleep solutions Dual Action Release health supplements suggested by pharmacist to tackle both sleep problems HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 June 2025 - As the economic outlook remains gloomy, stress levels among Hongkongers continue to rise. A recent survey shows that many locals feel overwhelmed by stress, which disrupts their sleep and creates a vicious cycle that severely affects both their emotional well-being and physical health. In light of this, Adrien Gagnon commissioned ESDlife to conduct the "Hong Kong Sleep and Stress Survey" in May 2025. The online survey interviewed 540 respondents in Hong Kong to examine sleep challenges and stress triggers. The goal was to raise awareness about sleep health and stress management, and to guide the public toward natural, long-lasting solutions to improve both "difficulty falling asleep" and "waking easily." 81% of Workers Skip Work Due to Sleep Deprivation Mondays Most Common for Sick Leave as Employees Create Their Own Mini-Holidays Under mounting pressure, many employees admit to "calling in sick" just to take a breather. The survey reveals that 82% have considered taking sick leave simply to avoid work. Among them, 81% cited sleep deprivation, while 64% blamed overwhelming stress. Additionally, 64% of respondents reported having at least one "sickie" impulse per month, a sign that stress has deeply impacted their mental and physical health. When asked about their preferred sick days, the top choices were Mondays (43%), after long holidays (25%), Fridays (24%), the day after working overtime (24%), and rainy or cold days (18%). (See Table 1) 64% Struggle to Fall Asleep, 81% Wake Easily Nearly 60% Suffer from Both Sleep Problems; 80% Seek Dual-Solution Treatments Sleep problems top the list of modern-day work-life struggles. Among respondents, 64% reported trouble falling asleep, and a significant 81% said they wake up easily. Almost 60% experience both sleep problems simultaneously. However, 77% said they lack effective methods to address both sleep problems at once. A full 80% expressed a desire for dual action release solutions. Psychiatrist Dr. Ka Yau Wong, Raymond explained: "Difficulty falling asleep and waking easily are two different sleep disorders. Difficulty falling asleep is usually stress-related, while waking easily may be linked to melatonin levels. Melatonin is only released in the dark, its production decreases with daylight or screen exposure. Dual action release melatonin supplements can provide extended support by releasing melatonin in two phases, helping the body fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. To tackle both sleep problems effectively, one must manage stress and regulate melatonin to improve the sleep cycle and overall sleep quality." 91% of Hongkongers Suffer from Stress Due to Work and Life Pressures 87% Say Stress Affects Their Sleep Quality Beyond sleep problems, the primary reason workers want to skip work is stress. The survey found that 91% of respondents are currently dealing with stress from work and life, and 83% reported a sense of helplessness. This highlights the prevalence of stress among Hongkongers. Stress was shown to cause sleep problems (78%), irritability (58%), loss of motivation (40%), lower work efficiency (34%), and even social withdrawal (33%) (see Table 2). Alarmingly, 76% of respondents felt more stressed this year than last, yet 40% admitted they are not addressing it and simply hoping it will resolve itself. Meanwhile, 87% noted that stress has negatively impacted their sleep quality. Dr. Wong warned: "Stress-related sleep problems needs timely attention. Prolonged avoidance of stress without proper relief could worsen the condition, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and further deterioration in sleep quality." 85% Seek Long-Lasting Sleep Solutions Pharmacist Recommend Dual Action Release Supplements for Dual Sleep Problems With nearly 60% experiencing both difficulty falling asleep and waking easily, 85% of respondents said they are looking for long-lasting sleep solutions. Registered pharmacist Mr. Ian Cheung advised: "Those dealing with dual insomnia problems may benefit from melatonin supplements with a 'dual action release' formula for comprehensive effect. These supplements provide an initial fast release to help you fall asleep, followed by a slow, sustained release that maintains melatonin levels overnight, tackling both early and mid-sleep disturbances. Some dual action release melatonin products combine Western herbal ingredients to address stress-related insomnia. If your sleep problems are caused by stress, consider formulas that include calming Western herbs." Nearly 60% Are Aware of Western Herbs for Stress Relief 72% Will Consider Herbal Supplements for Stress Reduction When it comes to stress and sleep improvement, most respondents prefer natural solutions. "Western herbs like Eschscholzia californica and Hops are scientifically proven to ease stress and anxiety," Cheung explained. "They can help improve sleep quality and are suitable for those who prefer natural remedies. Reducing stress naturally can prevent work avoidance and maintain daily function." The survey also revealed that 59% of respondents were aware that Western herbal supplements can aid in sleep and stress relief. When selecting health supplements, 63% prefer Western brands, and 72% are willing to try herbal ingredients for stress relief. Cheung added, "If symptoms persist despite using natural products, professional medical consultation should be considered." For more information, please visit: Appendix Table 1: Most Popular Days for Taking Sick Leave ("Sickies") Most Popular Days for Taking Sick Leave ("Sickies") Percentage Monday 43% After long holidays 25% Friday 24% Day after working overtime 24% Rainy/cold days 18% Wednesday 15% Meeting-heavy days 11% Thursday 9% Deadline days 8% Tuesday 7% * M ultiple answers allowed Table 2: Impact of Stress on Sleep and Daily Life Stress Symptoms Percentage Sleep problems / insomnia 78% Irritability 58% Wanting to skip work 47% Loss of motivation 40% Lower work efficiency 34% Social withdrawal 33% * M ultiple answers allowed Table 3: Key Factors in Choosing Western Herbal Supplements Consideration Percentage Product safety and certification 28% Ingredient transparency 22% Effectiveness & longevity (e.g., dual action release) 11% * M ultiple answers allowed Hashtag: #AdrienGagnon The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Adrien Gagnon Founded in 1946 by renowned naturopathy expert Mr. Adrien Gagnon, the ADRIEN GAGNON brand is one of the renowned and sizable natural health companies with long history in Quebec, Canada. With more than 160 products on the market, ADRIEN GAGNON brand is synonymous with high quality and has repeatedly set the bar for superior health products in terms of value, selection and brand recognition. ADRIEN GAGNON's plant in Canada is accredited with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). ADRIEN GAGNON has become one of the trusted health supplement brands About ESDlife ESD life, a joint venture of CK Hutchison (formerly Hutchison Whampoa) and Hewlett-Packard HK SAR, operates the award-winning website ( and establishes it as one of the most popular and trusted online lifestyle media in Hong Kong. The online platform of ESD life is furnished with a wide range of lifestyles information under the categories of Wedding, Family, Health and Anniversary. In addition to the prominent No. 1 position of its Wedding Channel in Hong Kong, an e-commerce platform is provided to consumers by offering medical check-up ordering services. ESD life also delivers integrated marketing and digital solutions to diversified corporate clients. Adrien Gagnon

Saudi Digital Bank D360 Eyes Series A in 2025, Targets Global Investors
Saudi Digital Bank D360 Eyes Series A in 2025, Targets Global Investors

Fintech News ME

time3 days ago

  • Fintech News ME

Saudi Digital Bank D360 Eyes Series A in 2025, Targets Global Investors

Saudi Arabia's digital bank D360, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is in preliminary discussions with potential global investors as it prepares for a Series A funding round slated for the second half of 2025. The Shariah-compliant bank, which began operations in December, aims to complete the fundraising in the first quarter of 2026, according to Chief Executive Officer Eze Szafir in an interview with Bloomberg. This follows D360's successful raising of approximately US$500 million from existing shareholders, including the PIF and Derayah Financial Co. Szafir did not specify the size of the upcoming round but said the funds would support efforts to expand services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in line with Saudi Arabia's economic diversification objectives under Vision 2030. 'We're looking for new investors in the international landscape, most probably from Europe or the US, with the same quality we have here with the PIF and Derayah,' Szafir told Bloomberg. The bank also plans to launch comprehensive lending services for individuals and SMEs later this year. To prepare for the funding round, D360 has appointed former JPMorgan Chase & Co. banker Mohammed Nazer as Chief Financial Officer to oversee the process. Nazer said the bank expects to appoint advisers to manage the Series A round by the end of July. D360 is among the first institutions to receive a digital banking licence in Saudi Arabia and currently serves over 1 million users. It is targeting 4 million account holders ahead of a potential public listing within the next four years. By leveraging data-driven strategies and modern technologies, the bank aims to support the development of Saudi Arabia's digital financial infrastructure in alignment with Vision 2030. The move comes as the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), continues to update regulatory frameworks to facilitate digital transformation in the financial sector. SAMA has prioritised innovation and financial inclusion by licensing new digital banking players as part of efforts to modernise the Kingdom's banking system and bolster financial resilience. This regulatory push has contributed to electronic payments accounting for 79% of all retail transactions in Saudi Arabia in 2024, up from 70% in 2023, according to SAMA. The central bank also reported that non-cash retail transactions totalled 12.6 billion in 2024, compared with 10.8 billion the year before, reflecting ongoing growth and adoption of digital payments nationwide.

Eid Al-Adha in UAE: Ordering sacrificial meat via apps gains popularity as retailers partner with abattoirs, government
Eid Al-Adha in UAE: Ordering sacrificial meat via apps gains popularity as retailers partner with abattoirs, government

Al Etihad

time4 days ago

  • Al Etihad

Eid Al-Adha in UAE: Ordering sacrificial meat via apps gains popularity as retailers partner with abattoirs, government

4 June 2025 00:17 SARA ALZAABI AND TAARIQ HALIM (ABU DHABI)These days, technology takes the crowds and the risk out of Al Udhiya — the traditional slaughter of sheep, goats, oxen, and camels during Eid for sacrificial meat can be placed via butchery apps or even grocery apps. The slaughter is performed at accredited abattoirs in the UAE, and the meat is packaged and delivered to your Al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, commences on 10th of Dhul-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, or June 6 in the Gregorian calendar this year. Al Udhiya is a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim's test of faith, where God asked him to sacrifice his son Ismail. Ibrahim passed the test and God replaced Ismail with a meat from the sacrifice is distributed among family members and a third of it goes to the the past, UAE residents would visit authorised slaughterhouses to get their sacrificial meat for Eid Al Adha; but online platforms have made the process much easier. Ordering by Apps For a second year, retail apps noon Minutes and Careem have launched Al Udhiya services, giving users a chance to order their animals using their smartphones. Prices range from Dh1,000 for a Somali goat to Dh7,000 for a 150kg Minutes has again partnered with meat distribution app Zabehaty, and orders for 2025 have already doubled from their launch year in Minutes spokesperson Saro Djerrahian, GM Commercial, explains: 'Sacrifices are performed by our trusted partner Zabehaty after Eid prayers, in line with Islamic principles and hygiene standards. Fresh meat is delivered to your door, with live updates every step of the way.'We brought the service back — and made it bigger — because demand has been so strong. Orders are already up 50% vs last year, with more expected as Eid gets said stringent measures are in place to ensure hygiene and cultural standards are maintained.'This is an important service for us, and we take every detail seriously. Sacrifices are carried out by certified experts at licensed facilities, fully Sharia-compliant and professionally managed. Customers will get confirmation and contact info for total peace of mind.'Careem Groceries, in partnership with Dhabayeh Al Emarat, offers local and imported options. According to their catalogue, a 14–17kg local goat aged 12 to 24 months costs Dh1,723, while a 7–9-month-old Naimi sheep (16–20 kg) is priced Dh2, can opt to have their meat delivered at home, or donate it directly to the UAE Food Bank. DMT Preparations The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi has finalised all the slaughterhouses' preparations for Sharia-compliant public services this services include dedicated pre-slaughter veterinary inspection offices and cutting, wrapping, and vacuum-sealing applications also provide the option of easy home the app, residents can choose the type of meat, the time of the sacrifice, and the nearest basic service pillars — veterinary inspection; halal, religious slaughter; and hygiene — will be adhered to. Aletihad spoke with Ali Shujaa, Executive Director of the Zabehaty smart app, about how the app has transformed Al Udhiya. 'The app was initially designed to facilitate general public access and alleviate congestion at slaughterhouses, including the elderly and people of determination.'He described how the process works: 'Carcasses are selected by a specialised team from the municipality, examined by veterinarians, and then transported to municipal slaughterhouses. They are slaughtered, cut up, packaged and prepared, then transported in special refrigerated vehicles to the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), where they are distributed across all emirates and locations.'The services are supervised by the municipality, including the municipal slaughterhouses in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, and Sharjah. Municipal oversight is mandatory, so the procedures are clear and regulated.'Shujaa also highlighted the app's gifting and donation services: 'We work with organisations like the Emirates Red Crescent, and others.'On the use of technology, he noted: 'The application itself uses artificial intelligence to respond to customers, and the cutting and packaging equipment is electric.'Khaled Almessabi, Manager of the Halal Mazrana app, said the platform ensures the freshness of the meat and allows the customers to manage the delivery.'Slaughtering takes place immediately after the Eid prayer, at municipality-approved slaughterhouses. The customer can also select from various farm and livestock owners based on their prices and delivery times.'All sacrifices are handled by the approved slaughterhouses, in line with the procedures adopted at the slaughterhouse itself, with the presence of a veterinarian.'The app is integrated with Abu Dhabi and Al Ain municipalities for seamless service delivery. ADAFSA Awareness Campaign The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority is intensifying its efforts to raise public awareness about the importance of slaughtering livestock in licensed campaign aims to curb random slaughter practices and dealings with unlicensed butchers, reinforcing biosecurity measures and public health standards to prevent zoonotic diseases that can spread between humans and emphasises that slaughtering in regulated abattoirs plays a vital role in ensuring public health. Abattoirs across Abu Dhabi offer controlled environments that minimise contamination risks, ensuring that carcasses are processed in clean and hygienic conditions and preventing inspections before and after slaughter guarantee the safety of meat for human consumption. Qualified and legally licensed butchers oversee the process, while waste management protocols ensure the safe disposal of slaughtering by-products, aligning with biosecurity also ensures that Islamic slaughtering guidelines — including proper positioning, recitation, precise cutting techniques for efficient bleeding, and full exsanguination — are adhered to, as poor bleeding due to fever or improper cutting can compromise meat quality. ADAFSA's campaign encourages residents to utilise Abu Dhabi's modern abattoirs, which adhere to high safety and hygiene standards, ensuring that slaughtered meat is safe for consumption.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store