Blockchain
Unlocking Potential: Saudi Arabia’s ICT Market Insights Revealed by Infinium Global Research
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated remarkable progress in modernizing its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. This transformation is driven by strategic initiatives from the Communication and Information Technology Commission (CITC), which has prioritized enhancing market competition through regulatory flexibility, transparency, and collaborative efforts. Notably, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recognizes Saudi Arabia as a leader in the Arab State region, achieving a “generation 4” (G4) status in the ITU Global ICT Regulatory Outlook 2020. Within the Middle East and North Africa regions, Saudi Arabia stands as one of the largest markets for Information and Communication Technology. With its strategic geographical location, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to emerge as a hub for technology services and cloud computing, boasting global connectivity access via the Red Sea, thereby serving markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa. As a G4 country, Saudi Arabia effectively integrates ICT regulation with a separate regulatory authority vested with enforcement powers. This authority operates with a clear mandate, overseeing a fully competitive market while safeguarding consumer interests under the “generation of regulation” model. Projections indicate that the Saudi Arabian ICT market is expected to experience a 5.6% growth in 2023, reaching a total value of $33.43 billion in 2022. This growth is predominantly driven by hardware expenditure, accounting for 58.5%, followed by services (30.4%), and software (11.1%).
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Key Business Opportunities and Factors Driving ICT Growth in Saudi Arabia:
- Cloud Adoption Surge: Anticipate a robust migration to cloud computing, as organizations increasingly embrace Infrastructure-As-A-Service and Platform-As-A-Service solutions.
- Emphasis on Edge Computing: Expect increased investments and collaborations in edge computing, facilitating the successful deployment of emerging technologies and use cases.
- IT Services in the AI Landscape: IT services providers have the opportunity to design and implement innovative business models while effectively managing data and infrastructure.
- Emerging Technology Integration: Witness a growing demand for industrial and intelligent automation, coupled with seamless integration with future technologies like IoT, AI, and Blockchain.
- Green Data Centers: Anticipate a surge in green data center initiatives, data center consolidation efforts, and policy changes aimed at enhancing data center sustainability.
Driving Forces for ICT Growth:
Saudi Arabia’s ICT expansion is propelled by rising personal incomes and a growing pool of specialists committed to advancing leadership in connectivity and information technology. Additionally, the nation boasts a robust economy, political stability, a youthful demographic, and national policies that prioritize economic diversification. Factors such as increased foreign direct investment (FDI), a burgeoning ecosystem that supports ICT innovation and entrepreneurship, a thriving telecommunications sector, and a growing IT service industry collectively stimulate ICT investments in Saudi Arabia.
Investments:
Saudi Arabia is embarking on a new era of digital innovation, with ICT spending projected to exceed $34.5 billion this year, underpinned by significant foreign direct investment and a substantial $7 trillion development plan for the giga project. In 2023, the Saudi government is making noteworthy investments in key areas, including AI, IoT, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
In the realm of foreign direct investment, Saudi Arabia is incentivizing data center investments of $400 million, which create a minimum of 20 jobs with an average annual wage of $40,000, thereby qualifying for up to 30 years of tax savings.
Furthermore, as part of its commitment to digital transformation and preparation for the future economy, Saudi Arabia has unveiled investments exceeding $9 billion in its technology sector. These investments are spearheaded by a substantial $2.1 billion commitment from Microsoft to establish a super-scalar cloud infrastructure in the country, and Oracle’s $1.5 billion investment to fortify the kingdom’s cloud computing capabilities. Additionally, China’s Huawei is contributing $400 million to enhance Saudi Arabia’s cloud infrastructure.
The information and communication technology sector in Saudi Arabia are valued at SR134 billion, constituting 4.1% of the Kingdom’s gross domestic product (GDP), emphasizing its growing economic significance.
During the forum, the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) announced that the ICT market in Saudi Arabia surged to a value of 154 billion in 2022, establishing itself as the largest and most rapidly expanding digital economy in the region. Additionally, Dr. Altamini emphasized that CST has introduced high-speed internet services in 21,000 villages across the nation, addressing the needs of over 5 million people and ensuring uninterrupted communication services. This underlines the substantial progress in the Kingdom’s communication and technology infrastructure. Notably, 5G coverage in Riyadh has reached an impressive 53%, while exceeding 94% in other regions. The utilization of fiber optics has extended to 3.7 million users in Saudi Arabia, reflecting a dynamic shift towards advanced and high-speed connectivity solutions.
Opportunities:
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) has been primarily focused on establishing a robust and advanced architectural framework to facilitate digital transformation across various domains such as e-commerce, smart cities, national data management, digital education, digital healthcare, and e-government. In line with Saudi Arabia’s ICT strategy for 2023, the objectives include generating more than 25,000 employment opportunities within the sector, achieving a 50% expansion in the IT market size and technology development, and increasing the sector’s contribution to GDP by $13.3 billion. The strategy also aims to attract international investments and promote the active participation of women in the field. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), the Saudi ICT sector experienced an impressive 8% growth between 2019 and 2021, culminating in a total value of $32.1 billion.
In a move to bolster the resilience of the Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) through ICT solutions, the Saudi Fund for Improved SAI Performance (Saudi FISP) is facilitating the expansion and enhancement of ICT infrastructure. The Saudi Arabia General Court of Audit has generously allocated $1 million to be distributed among International Organization of Supreme Audit Institution (INTOSAI) members that require external assistance to advance their ICT infrastructure, thus fortifying the capabilities of these institutions.
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Vision 2030:
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is focused on the bolstering of the ICT sector with the goal of forging a digital society, digital government, digital economy, and a forward-thinking future for the Kingdom. Within this framework, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) establishes the groundwork for diversification and enhancing competitiveness. It revolves around three primary pillars, each delineating specific objective to be realized by 2030: fostering a dynamic society, fostering a prosperous economy, and shaping an ambitious nation via a well-crafted digital strategy, enabling a connected present and an innovative future.
Challenges:
Saudi Arabia encounters difficulties in both enlarging its domestic ICT workforce and attracting foreign talent. Moreover, sourcing local professionals with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, mobility solutions, and cybersecurity proves to be a challenge. The nation also grapples with significant cybersecurity threats, further complicating its ICT landscape.
Main Players
- IBM Middle East
- Saudi Telecommunication company
- Amazon.ae
- Palo Alto Networks Saudi Arabian Limited Company
- nybl
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Glidelogic Corp. Announces Revolutionary AI-Generated Content Copyright Protection Solution
Blockchain
Ethereum ETFs Aren’t Blockchain But Is A Revolutionary Tech: Top 6 Amazing Reasons To Invest In Them
The financial landscape is rapidly evolving, with the integration of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies becoming more prominent. Among these, Ethereum ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) have emerged as a significant investment vehicle, offering exposure to the Ethereum blockchain’s native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), without requiring direct ownership. However, it’s crucial to understand that Ethereum ETFs are distinct from the blockchain itself and serve different purposes in the investment world.
Understanding Ethereum and ETFs
Ethereum: A decentralized platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). It operates using its cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), which fuels the network.
ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund): A type of investment fund that holds a collection of assets and is traded on stock exchanges. ETFs can include various asset classes, such as stocks, commodities, or bonds.
Ethereum ETFs: The Intersection of Traditional Finance and Cryptocurrency
An Ethereum ETF provides a way for investors to gain exposure to the price movements of Ether without directly purchasing the cryptocurrency. This is achieved through an ETF structure, where the fund holds assets linked to the value of Ether, and investors can buy shares of the ETF on traditional stock exchanges.
Key Features of Ethereum ETFs:
- Indirect Exposure: Investors gain exposure to Ether’s price changes without needing to manage or store the cryptocurrency themselves.
- Regulatory Compliance: Unlike the relatively unregulated cryptocurrency market, ETFs operate under the oversight of financial regulators, offering a layer of investor protection.
- Accessibility: Ethereum ETFs are available through traditional brokerage platforms, making them accessible to a broader range of investors.
Why Invest in an Ethereum ETF?
- Diversification: Including an Ethereum ETF in a portfolio can provide exposure to the cryptocurrency market, potentially enhancing diversification beyond traditional assets.
- Convenience and Familiarity: ETFs are a familiar investment product, simplifying the process of investing in cryptocurrencies.
- Professional Management: ETF managers handle the investment decisions, including the buying and selling of assets, which can be advantageous for those less familiar with the cryptocurrency space.
- Regulatory Oversight: ETFs are subject to regulatory scrutiny, potentially offering more safety and transparency compared to direct cryptocurrency investments.
- Potential for Growth: As the cryptocurrency market grows, ETFs linked to assets like Ether may benefit from rising prices.
Key Differences Between Ethereum and Ethereum ETFs
While both are related to the Ethereum blockchain, Ethereum itself and Ethereum ETFs represent different forms of investment:
- Ethereum (ETH):
- Direct ownership of the cryptocurrency.
- Full exposure to Ethereum’s features, including staking and network participation.
- Traded on cryptocurrency exchanges.
- Highly volatile and largely unregulated.
- Ethereum ETF:
- Indirect exposure through shares representing Ether’s value.
- Traded on traditional stock exchanges under regulatory oversight.
- Offers a more stable and familiar investment structure.
- Typically lower volatility compared to direct cryptocurrency ownership.
Future Considerations for Ethereum ETFs
The approval and launch of Ethereum ETFs mark a significant milestone in bringing cryptocurrencies closer to mainstream finance. They offer a convenient and regulated means for investors to gain exposure to the growing digital assets market. However, they also come with limitations, such as not allowing direct participation in the Ethereum ecosystem’s innovations, like dApps and smart contracts.
As the market evolves, we may see more sophisticated financial products that better capture the full potential of the Ethereum ecosystem. For now, Ethereum ETFs provide a balanced option for those interested in cryptocurrency exposure within the framework of traditional finance.
In conclusion, while Ethereum ETFs offer a gateway into the world of digital assets, they should be viewed as complementary to, rather than a replacement for, direct investment in the underlying blockchain technologies. Investors should carefully consider their investment goals, risk tolerance, and the unique attributes of both Ethereum and Ethereum ETFs when making investment decisions.
Source: blockchainmagazine.net
The post Ethereum ETFs Aren’t Blockchain But Is A Revolutionary Tech: Top 6 Amazing Reasons To Invest In Them appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.
Nexo, a leading institution in the digital assets industry, has reinforced its commitment to data security by renewing its SOC 2 Type 2 audit and attaining a new SOC 3 Type 2 assessment without any exceptions. This rigorous audit process, conducted by A-LIGN, a respected independent auditor specializing in security compliance, confirms Nexo’s adherence to stringent Trust Service Criteria for Security and Confidentiality.
Key Achievements and Certifications
- SOC 2 and SOC 3 Compliance:
- SOC 2 Type 2: This audit evaluates and reports on the effectiveness of an organization’s controls over data security, particularly focusing on the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and data.
- SOC 3 Type 2: This public-facing report provides a summary of SOC 2 findings, offering assurance to customers and stakeholders about the robustness of Nexo’s data security practices.
- Additional Trust Service Criteria:
- Nexo expanded the scope of these audits to include Confidentiality, showcasing a deep commitment to protecting user data.
- Security Certifications:
- The company also adheres to the CCSS Level 3 Cryptocurrency Security Standard, and holds ISO 27001, ISO 27017, and ISO 27018 certifications, awarded by RINA. These certifications are benchmarks for security management and data privacy.
- CSA STAR Level 1 Certification:
- This certification demonstrates Nexo’s adherence to best practices in cloud security, further solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the digital assets sector.
Impact on Customers and Industry Standards
Nexo’s rigorous approach to data protection and compliance sets a high standard in the digital assets industry. By achieving these certifications, Nexo provides its over 7 million users across more than 200 jurisdictions with confidence in the security of their data. These achievements not only emphasize the company’s dedication to maintaining top-tier security standards but also highlight its proactive stance in fostering trust and transparency in digital asset management.
Nexo’s Broader Mission
As a premier institution for digital assets, Nexo offers a comprehensive suite of services, including advanced trading solutions, liquidity aggregation, and tax-efficient credit lines backed by digital assets. Since its inception, the company has processed over $130 billion, showcasing its significant impact and reliability in the global market.
In summary, Nexo’s successful completion of SOC 2 and SOC 3 audits, along with its comprehensive suite of certifications, underscores its commitment to the highest standards of data security and operational integrity. This dedication positions Nexo as a leader in the digital assets space, offering unparalleled security and peace of mind to its users.
Source: blockchainreporter.net
The post Nexo Reaffirms Commitment to Data Protection with SOC 3 and SOC 2 Compliance appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.
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