Introduction

Thndr, the MENA region’s mobile-first investment platform, has announced its market entry into the UAE, building on its remarkable success in Egypt. The company, co-founded in 2020 by Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr, aims to replicate its achievements in a new market by offering digital investment opportunities through its mobile-based platform.

Thndr's Journey and Success in Egypt

Thndr was established with the mission to democratize investment in the Middle East. The platform allows users to invest in stocks, bonds, and funds with low commissions, making it accessible to a broader audience. Since its inception, Thndr has become Egypt’s leading investment platform, boasting over 3 million downloads and 500,000 active monthly users.

Impressive Market Impact

In 2023, Egyptians traded an impressive $1.8 billion on Thndr, and by April 2024, the platform accounted for 8.5% of all retail transactions in the Egyptian market. These milestones highlight Thndr's success in attracting and retaining a significant number of new investors in Egypt.

Entry into the UAE Market

Thndr’s expansion into the UAE is facilitated by acquiring a Category 3A license with retail endorsement from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). Initially, Thndr will offer direct access to US-listed securities, including stocks, ETFs, and fractional shares, without minimum investment requirements. As Thndr establishes itself in the UAE, it plans to introduce a broader range of investment products.

Strategic Alliances and Growth Opportunities

Thndr’s affiliation with Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, plays a crucial role in its UAE expansion. Hub71’s network of corporations, national champions, and prominent investors provides Thndr with the support needed to integrate seamlessly into the UAE market. This collaboration is expected to facilitate Thndr's growth and potentially disrupt the traditional investment landscape in the region.

Breaking Down Investment Barriers

Since its inception, Thndr has focused on breaking down barriers to entry in the investment world. By offering a user-friendly app, educational resources, and a diverse investment selection, Thndr empowers individuals to take control of their financial futures, regardless of their financial background.

Commitment to Core Principles

Thndr’s model in Egypt was built on four key pillars:

  1. Creation of an Investment Superstore: Offering a variety of investment options tailored to individual needs.
  2. Regulatory Commitment: Maintaining a strong relationship with local regulators to stay ahead.
  3. Demystifying Investing: Making investing approachable for all through educational content.
  4. User-First Design: Creating an easy-to-use product tailored to the needs of everyday investors.

“We are thrilled to announce our entry into the UAE market, a direct result of the incredible support from ADGM’s FSRA. Their guidance and efficient licensing process have been instrumental in making this a reality,” said Salah Kaddoura, UAE General Manager at Thndr.

Positive Reception and Future Plans

Peter Abou Hachem, Head of Growth and Strategy at Hub71, expressed excitement about Thndr’s expansion: “Once again, startups like Thndr show that Hub71 is a community where the world’s fastest-growing startups can succeed from within Abu Dhabi’s thriving FinTech scene. Our commitment to building a global tech ecosystem is based on empowering startup growth that makes a positive impact on the economy and society.”

Looking Ahead

Thndr’s entry into the UAE marks a significant milestone in its mission to democratize investing across the MENA region. With its proven track record in Egypt and strategic support from ADGM and Hub71, Thndr is well-positioned to create a robust and inclusive financial ecosystem in the UAE, empowering more individuals to take control of their financial futures.