Latest news with #NationalBonds
Hi Dubai
14-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
National Bonds Expands Young Investor Programme to 50 Schools Across UAE
National Bonds has announced the nationwide expansion of its Young Investor Programme, aiming to reach 50 schools and engage 75,000 students across the UAE over the next three years. In partnership with the Knowledge Fund Establishment, the initiative builds on the success of its pilot phase launched in 11 Dubai schools, where it received strong support from students, parents, and educators. The programme blends theoretical learning with real-world financial applications, encouraging students to explore saving strategies, investment tools, and entrepreneurship. Over the coming years, participating students will be challenged to develop small-scale investment or business projects. Selected initiatives will undergo feasibility evaluations, with standout proposals receiving support and recognition to help bring them to life. As part of the programme, high school students recently attended hands-on workshops at National Bonds' headquarters, covering topics such as budgeting, market research, customer service, data analysis, and communication. A new group of Grade 11 and 12 students is expected to join during the upcoming summer break. The curriculum, originally designed for students in Grades 5 and 6, is being updated to reflect evolving financial trends, incorporating modules on artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and everyday money management. Rehab Lootah, Group Deputy CEO of National Bonds, said the pilot outcomes surpassed expectations, highlighting the programme's role in building financial confidence among youth. Ohood Al Ichlah from the Knowledge Fund Establishment echoed the sentiment, calling financial literacy a 'cornerstone of future success.' Launched in early 2024, the Young Investor Programme aims to instil a savings mindset while equipping students with the skills to make informed, responsible financial decisions for the future. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Zawya
13-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New phase of the 'Young Investor' program targets 50 schools and more than 75,000 students across UAE
Expansion Driven by Strong Engagement and Positive Outcomes from the Program's Pilot Phase Modern curriculum includes interaction with AI, digital currencies, and practical financial concepts to meet future demands Enabling students to develop small-scale investment projects inspired by financial literacy concept Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Building on the success of its inaugural year, National Bonds, the UAE's leading Sharia-compliant savings and investment company, in partnership with Knowledge Fund Establishment, a government entity dedicated to supporting and developing the education sector in Dubai, has announced a new phase of its financial education initiative 'Young Investor Program' in UAE schools, to reach 50 schools nationwide over the next three years, engaging 75,000 students. This growth follows strong engagement from students, parents, and educators during the program's pilot phase initially launched in 11 schools across Dubai, which combined theoretical learning with practical financial application Over the next three years, the program will challenge students to conceptualize small investment or business projects based on the financial principles they acquire—ranging from basic savings strategies to safe investment tools. Selected projects will undergo feasibility assessments, with the most promising initiatives receiving dedicated support and recognition. These student-led ventures aim to translate financial literacy into real-world experience, nurturing both entrepreneurial and practical skills. Recently, high school participants engaged in immersive, in-person workshops at National Bonds' headquarters. These sessions covered a wide range of real-world topics, including budgeting, customer service, investment fundamentals, market research, data analysis, and client communication. A new cohort of Grade 11 and 12 students is expected to take part during the upcoming summer break. In line with evolving global trends, the program is currently being updated to include relevant contemporary topics such as artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and everyday money management. These additions are designed to equip students with skills tailored to the financial and professional challenges of the future. Rehab Lootah, Group Deputy CEO of National Bonds, commented: 'The outcomes from the pilot phase of the Young Investor Program have exceeded expectations. The high levels of engagement from students, families, and schools demonstrate the program's effectiveness in building financial literacy and confidence. As we expand nationwide, we look forward to further empowering young people to make informed financial decisions that will shape their future.' Ohood Al Ichlah, Director of Strategic Planning and Educational Initiatives at the Knowledge Fund Establishment, added: 'We are proud to continue our collaboration with National Bonds to extend the reach of this valuable program. Financial literacy is a cornerstone of future success, and the Young Investor initiative lays that foundation early. We look forward to welcoming more schools and inspiring more students to take charge of their financial futures.' Launched early last year, the Young Investor program introduces students—particularly those in Grades 5 and 6—to core financial concepts including money management, payment systems, loans and debts, savings, investments, Islamic Takaful insurance, and long-term financial planning. With a structured, research-backed curriculum, the initiative promotes a savings mindset while preparing youth to navigate financial systems with confidence and purpose. About National Bonds Corporation Sole Proprietorship PSC: National Bonds Corporation is a Sharia-compliant savings and investment company owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai, established in 2006. It is licensed and supervised by the Securities and Commodities Authority and is audited by the Dubai Government Audit Department, Sharia Supervisory Board as well as reputable International external auditors. The company provides UAE nationals, UAE residents, and non-residents with an opportunity to build and fortify their savings safety net, as well as invest in programs that offer competitive returns with lower risk. Its goal is to encourage disciplined savings habits for people across the 7 Emirates, in line with the UAE Government's Vision for a financially secure and sustainable future. National Bonds offers an exciting AED 36 Million Rewards Program to all savers, with monthly and quarterly prizes ranging from AED 1 million to various luxury cars.
Khaleej Times
20-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
'Frustrating': Some young UAE residents say 'trapped' in cycle of poor financial planning
A recent survey by National Bonds showed that 40 per cent of Gen Z were optimistic about achieving their financial goals, yet, many still call for more open conversations on financial literacy. Retirement planning is one of the top financial priorities for Generation Z — for the second year in a row. According to the survey, 40 per cent of respondents reported being on track to meet their 2024 financial goals, while 45 per cent stated they had partially achieved their targets. Younger generations are showing increasing financial awareness, with 40 per cent of Gen Z and 36 per cent of Millennials expressing confidence in their financial aspirations, compared to 32 per cent of Generation X. Rehab Lootah, Group Deputy CEO of National Bonds, emphasised, 'The results of this year's survey reflect a growing commitment among individuals to achieving financial stability, particularly in retirement planning.' She highlighted that to support this commitment, National Bonds offers innovative financial solutions, such as the ' Second Salary ' savings plan designed to help UAE nationals and expatriates build supplementary retirement income. However, other Gen Z residents feel a pressing need for financial literacy. Ahmed M., 26, who lives in Dubai, believed that starting his career would come with a clear path to financial stability. "I thought I'd have it all figured out by now," he admitted. As he grew older, he realised that several responsibilities came with adulthood. The higher cost of living made budgeting difficult, and despite his efforts, he often found himself overwhelmed. "With inflation skyrocketing and many services becoming monetised, it's hard for our generation to keep up," he pointed out. "I wish I had more financial literacy before joining the workforce. Understanding budgeting, saving, and investing would have made a significant difference." He often finds himself living pay cheque to pay cheque, which adds to his stress. "It's tiring knowing that I'm constantly just making ends meet." Fatima, 29, resides in Sharjah and shared a similar sentiment. She also envisioned a straightforward financial future when she began working. "After a year of living alone and trying to manage rent with other bills, I realised it would be better to move back to my parents' house," she explained. Like Ahmed, Fatima emphasised the need for open conversations about financial struggles. "Many people don't talk about their financial issues. It's crucial to create a space where we can share our experiences without judgement." Fatima lamented the lack of financial education in schools. "If I had learned about budgeting, saving, and the importance of financial planning earlier, I might not feel so trapped in this cycle of living pay cheque to pay cheque." She described how the constant pressure to make ends meet has led her to feel exhausted and anxious. "Every month, I budget tightly, but unexpected expenses always seem to pop up. It's frustrating." Both Ahmed and Fatima advocate for greater financial literacy initiatives. "We need workshops and resources that help young people understand how to manage their finances effectively," Ahmed suggested. "It would empower us to make informed decisions rather than just surviving from one pay cheque to the next." As financial anxiety becomes more prevalent, experts warn that it can significantly impact an individual's life and productivity. Dr Sara Al-Mansoori, a psychologist, explained, 'Financial anxiety often manifests as chronic worry, which can lead to physical symptoms like headaches and insomnia. This not only affects personal well-being but also hampers professional performance." Dr Al Mansoori continued, 'When individuals are preoccupied with financial concerns, their ability to concentrate diminishes. This can deter them from pursuing career advancement opportunities, resulting in stagnation. To break this cycle, it's essential to promote financial literacy and create supportive environments where individuals can share their experiences and seek guidance.'
Hi Dubai
18-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Residents Opt for Longer-Term Savings as Interest Rates Set to Decline
With interest rates expected to drop in line with the US Federal Reserve's anticipated cuts, UAE residents are increasingly opting for long-term savings to secure higher returns. Financial institutions have reported a surge in deposits as savers seek to lock in current high yields before they decline. 'People are choosing longer saving tenures, between three and 10 years, through products like our Millionaire product, Second Salary, and Booster schemes. They know rates will eventually drop, so they prefer securing returns of 3.5% to 4% for the next four to five years rather than renewing deposits annually at lower rates,' said Mohammed Qasim Al Ali, Group CEO of National Bonds. Shariah-compliant financial institutions offer profit rates instead of interest, attracting depositors looking for stable, risk-free returns. National Bonds' Second Salary savings programme allows residents to save from Dh1,000 per month with flexible tenures. Savings culture is growing across income levels, with National Bonds reporting a 51% increase in regular savers and 45,800 new customers in 2024. The company's investment portfolio surged to Dh15.8 billion, marking 22% growth. Customers earned up to 4.75% returns, benefiting from high interest rates. The company is also integrating AI-driven financial planning tools, including a robo-advisor to guide customers on savings strategies and debt management. Digital savings increased by 41% in 2024 due to these innovations. Additionally, National Bonds plans to expand its real estate portfolio with a new office tower in Barsha Heights by 2025. With economic conditions shifting, UAE residents are strategically positioning their finances, prioritizing structured savings to maximize returns before the anticipated interest rate cuts take effect. News Source: Khaleej Times
Hi Dubai
18-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
National Bonds Reports Record AED 15.8 Billion in Sukuk Investments
National Bonds has announced a record-breaking AED 15.8 billion (US$4.2 billion) in Sukuk investments by the end of 2024, marking a 22% increase from AED 12.9 billion in 2023. The surge is attributed to the growing number of regular savers and the adoption of digital savings solutions. The company distributed AED 588 million in returns to Sukuk holders for 2024, with top-tier savers earning up to 4.75%, while the overall average return stood at 4.02%. The number of regular savers grew by 51%, highlighting a rising preference for structured savings plans, aligning with the UAE's vision of financial security and sustainability. Digital adoption played a crucial role, with a 41% increase in digital savings in 2024, following enhancements to National Bonds' mobile application. Additionally, the company introduced an end-of-service benefits programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), set to launch this year. Mohammed Qasim Al Ali, Group CEO, emphasized National Bonds' commitment to building a future-ready savings ecosystem. 'We assess emerging trends and customer expectations to create solutions that foster financial resilience. This approach has fueled our 22% portfolio growth and strengthened customer confidence,' he stated. National Bonds follows a low-to-medium risk investment strategy, allocating 20% of its portfolio to bank deposits, 30-40% to fixed-income assets, 10-12% to listed equities, 8% to private equity, and 20% to real estate. The company's AED 36 million annual rewards program further encourages disciplined saving habits. With robust financial performance and strategic innovation, National Bonds continues to drive savings culture in the UAE, reinforcing its position as a trusted financial partner. News Source: Emirates News Agency
