Latest news with #financialadviser
Bloomberg
a day ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Bitcoin ATM Operator CoinFlip to Explore Sale
CoinFlip, an operator of a global network Bitcoin ATMs, is in the early stages of weighing a sale as dealmaking in the cryptocurrency space heats up, people familiar with the matter said. The Chicago-based company is working with a financial adviser to seek a buyer, according to the people. CoinFlip is considering seeking at least $1 billion in the sale, though it's unclear if it will be able to achieve that valuation, the people said.
Bloomberg
3 days ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Petronas Is Said to Explore Sale of $7 Billion Canadian Business
Petroliam Nasional Bhd. is considering options for its Canadian company formerly known as Progress Energy Resources Corp., including a sale, according to people familiar with the matter. Petronas, as the Malaysian state energy firm is known, is working with a financial adviser on a potential disposal, the people said, asking not to be identified because the deliberations are private. A transaction could value the Canadian business at $6 billion to $7 billion, they said.
Khaleej Times
30-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
To make money with crypto, you may need to fire the experts
I had a meeting with a financial adviser sometime in my early 40s , the trauma of which still lives in my body. I was living in the UAE, working hard, making decent money, and ready to get serious about my financial future. I walked into the meeting completely unsuspecting and she didn't waste time. She drew a mountain on a piece of paper and placed a little stick figure — my sad little financial avatar — only halfway up the side. 'This is where you are now,' she said. 'And, if you don't start investing much, much more, this is where you'll be.' Then she drew the rest of the scenario: a steep cliff face, the sad little stick figure barely clinging to the side. I left the meeting and sat in my car and cried. I felt so frustrated and confused. How could someone in their early 40s with no debt and a good salary be in this kind of doomsday scenario? Looking back, I can see I wasn't hopeless — I was manipulated. These kinds of financial 'wake-up calls' are designed not to inform or empower, but to shame, scare, and sell. And this one did lasting damage. The financial confusion and manipulation I faced when I arrived in the UAE changed my behaviour for years. That's why I want to talk about something I've only recently come to understand, which has helped me take my power back. It's called 'low time preference'. The financial confusion and manipulation I faced when I arrived in the UAE changed my behaviour for years" Low time preference is a term from economics and behavioural psychology that refers to a person's ability to delay gratification and prioritise long-term rewards over short-term pleasures. Someone with low time preference is more likely to invest, save, and plan ahead rather than spend impulsively or chase instant rewards. The concept originates in Austrian economics, particularly in the work of Ludwig von Mises and Hans-Hermann Hoppe. I first read about it in the Saifedean Ammous 2018 book The Bitcoin Standard. Before moving to the UAE, I was a regular investor. In Canada, I opened a registered retirement savings plan as soon as I started working at 26. I invested every time I got paid and upped the amount when I got a raise. I was far from perfect and bought a lot of useless things. I got in credit card debt at one point, but I also managed to get out with the help of a second job. As I've written about earlier, I struggled with life-long money fears. When I arrived in the UAE, with no financial plan for my expat life other than being scared that I would mess up the opportunity, I was a very easy mark. That's when the slick financial advisers I engaged, the ones introduced by my workplace, tried to sell me investment products that required 15-year commitments and huge monthly payments. If I ever moved back to Canada, and I was always sure I would be doing that soon, I knew I'd struggle to keep up. So, I said no — again and again, and each time, I got the same amount of shame that I did from the stick-figure artist. The advisers kept saying if I wouldn't do the regular plans, I needed $10,000 (Dh36,729) minimum to invest. I kept telling myself I'd save up, and sometimes I would. But then, I wouldn't. It was a vicious circle that went on for years and because of it I missed the wonder of compounding interest for far too long. It's a small consolation that those products were later revealed to be predatory at worst and poorly structured at best, with up-front fees that people were usually not made aware of. I have heard of people who got through the 15 years, with some regret, and others who couldn't keep up the payments and lost almost everything. As for me, it's clear now that during the move overseas I lost my savings rhythm. Like many people, I also got caught up somewhat in the brunches and the bags – the opposite of low time preference. I could be much farther ahead were things different. And that is one of my deeper regrets. It wasn't until much later that I realised: the entire time, all I needed to do to save regularly again was to open my own investment account. Getting rid of all outside financial 'advisers', facing, and processing my money fears head-on, and figuring out personal finance for myself has helped build hard-won low time preference for me. Being able to invest regularly in Bitcoin without needing a third party has definitely helped. Doing this gives me more peace and clarity than anything I've done financially in years. Now, I don't want to spend on clothes or expensive meals — I want to invest. Bitcoin, with its sound structure and long-term potential, has helped me rediscover the discipline I had before I moved here. I wish I could turn back time – but I'm also of the opinion that it's never too late. That stick figure is not clinging to the edge anymore. She's on the move now, climbing slowly, steadily, and one forward-looking step at a time.
Khaleej Times
16-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Shehnaz Zahra Mubarik: A rising voice in real estate
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of Dubai real estate, Shehnaz Zahra Mubarik has carved a space for herself not only as a realtor but as a trusted advisor, entrepreneur, and visionary. With a deep commitment to ethics, transparency and long-term client relationships, Shehnaz is quickly becoming one of the most influential names in the industry. From financial adviser to real estate game-changer Born and raised in Dubai in a middle-class family, Shehnaz is an MBA graduate and Certified Financial Adviser. Her passion for real estate was ignited while managing client portfolios across various asset classes - with property always taking center stage. Recognising the potential and trust clients placed in real estate, she made the leap to become a full-time realtor. "My parents were my inspiration. I wanted to give them the best the world has to offer," she shares. "Real Estate fascinated me, and I saw a gap in the market - a need for honest, transparent and ethical realtors. I decided to be that change." Redefining the role of a realtor Shehnaz isn't your typical realtor. She describes herself as a "one-stop shop" - a reliable resource for everything from investment advice and market trends to post-sale support. Her approach mirrors that of a financial consultant or legal advisor, with a clear focus on long-term relationships over quick sales. "I specialise in mid to high-ticket properties and treat each client's investment as if it were my own," she says. "I stay updated on both local and global market dynamics, and my goal is always to give honest, tailored advice." Beyond transactions, Shehnaz offers guidance on market trends, emerging locations, and long-term strategies. Her extensive knowledge of global markets allows her to offer a big-picture perspective, giving clients a rare advantage in Dubai's ever-evolving landscape. Clients consistently describe their experience with Shehnaz as "hassle-free" and marked by trust, integrity and a genuine concern for their best interests. She proudly notes that many of her clients become lifelong connections - a testament to the trust and care she fosters. Discipline, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose For Shehnaz, real estate is not just about transactions - it's about showing up every day with discipline and purpose. "People often see the glamor of this industry, but behind the scenes, there's pressure, problem-solving and constant learning," she explains. "Being consistent, even on hard days, is something every serious realtor should be proud of." Rather than highlight a single success story, Shehnaz honours the everyday discipline required in her field. "Just showing up, staying disciplined, and giving 100 per cent regardless of personal circumstances - that's an achievement in itself for every hardworking realtor," she says. Understanding Dubai's market and its future Dubai's real estate market has shown strong post-pandemic growth, and Shehnaz is confident in its trajectory. "Dubai will always be a top player globally, thanks to the vision of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This city was built to lead, and it continues to deliver." She offers practical advice for first-time buyers: understand why Dubai is worth investing in before looking at properties. "I typically narrow down to three tailored options for my clients based on their goals and budget. Too many choices can confuse and delay smart decisions. The key is to have a knowledgeable realtor who can guide them quickly and confidently." she advises. Giving back and looking ahead Shehnaz's work doesn't stop at sales or investments. After the passing of her mother in 2024, she found a new purpose in charitable work. "I do charity in my mother's name through global organisations, but my dream is to open a charitable foundation, an old age home, and an orphanage - and manage them personally." "I want to do more as a human for other humans. I was born to make an impact - and I won't stop until I make history," she says with conviction. Already the sole owner of two companies and a VIP sales manager at a leading brokerage firm in Dubai, Shehnaz is now preparing to launch five additional ventures under the Zahra Group of Companies, expanding into F&B and philanthropy, all while remaining fully committed to her core career in real estate. "My love for real estate is endless. I'll always be a full-time realtor," she affirms. Leadership and mentorship To those who want to work with her, whether clients or aspiring agents, Shehnaz offers more than just services; she provides mentorship, guidance, and vision. "If you're a client, I promise an honest, professional experience. If you're a realtor, I offer leadership and the kind of support that helps you believe in yourself and achieve your goals," she shares. A heart full of gratitude At the core of Shehnaz's journey stands an unshakable pillar of love and inspiration: her parents, Mubarik and Banu. "First and foremost, it has always been my parents - they were, are, and always will be the main reason behind any achievement in my life," she says with deep emotion. "Every dream I dared to dream, every step I took forward - it was all to make them proud. They are my biggest blessing and my eternal driving force." Their values, sacrifices, and constant belief in her abilities have been the foundation of her ambition and resilience. "My parents gave me the strength to rise above limits and the courage to pursue excellence, no matter the odds," she adds. In addition to her parents, Shehnaz expresses heartfelt appreciation for her family, her mentor M. Maktabi, her longtime friend Ali, and even those who doubted her - all of whom played a role in shaping her journey. "And yes, I thank myself too, because if I hadn't dared to believe in something greater for my life, none of this would have been possible." Staying driven So, what keeps her motivated, even after reaching so many milestones? "Everyone is born for a reason. I've discovered mine. I was born to make an impact on this planet - and I won't stop until I do." In a market that often prioritises profit over people, Shehnaz Zahra Mubarik stands as a refreshing exception; a woman driven by values, vision, and the will to uplift everyone around her. Her story is one of purpose, passion, and perseverance, and she's just getting started.
