Digital Payment Today - Middle East Embedded Finance Boom Drives Financial Inclusion

The embedded finance sector in the Middle East is experiencing significant growth influenced by regulatory support, digital transformation initiatives, and the expansion of e-commerce and gig platforms. This thriving ecosystem is spurred by the integration of Banking-as-a-Service and embedded payment solutions, enhancing financial inclusion across various sectors such as ride-hailing and retail. Prominent regional platforms are incorporating financial tools like credit and digital wallets, supported by regulatory advancements, including fintech sandboxes and open banking frameworks, particularly in GCC markets. This environment fosters competitive dynamics as banks, fintechs, and platforms forge API-based partnerships, indicating a robust trajectory for embedded finance across the region.

Elsewhere in the market, Hong Leong Bank Berhad (KLSE:HLBANK) was a notable mover up 5.8% and ending trading at MYR22.22, close to the 52-week high.

Best Digital Payment Stocks

• PayPal Holdings (NasdaqGS:PYPL) closed at $60.57 up 4.2%.
• Visa (NYSE:V) closed at $327.98 up 1.3%.
• SoFi Technologies (NasdaqGS:SOFI) closed at $25.19 up 1.1%.

SoFi Technologies' potential rapid growth may be overestimated due to competitive and macroeconomic challenges; explore the full narrative to understand the urgency and complexity of investing.

Seize The Opportunity

• Explore the 217 names, such as Hana Financial Group, Standard Chartered and Komercní banka, from our Digital Payment Stocks screener here.
• Seeking Other Investments? Outshine the giants: these 26 early-stage AI stocks could fund your retirement.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Sources:

• Simply Wall St
• "Middle East Embedded Finance Industry Databook 2025-2030 - Ride-Hailing and Gig Platforms Embed Financial Tools to Boost Inclusion" from Research and Markets on GlobeNewswire (published 20 November 2025)

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com