Landmark Securitization Deal Expands Financial Inclusion in the UAE

Mar 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM

In a significant move for financial diversification and market expansion, a leading global law firm has successfully advised a prominent UAE-based finance company on a substantial securitization deal. The transaction, valued at up to US$400 million, involves a forward flow arrangement with a major international bank as the senior lender and a specialized investment firm serving as the financial advisor. This strategic partnership aims to enhance the company's funding sources and promote its core business activities. Moreover, it underscores the growing importance of asset-backed funding structures within the broader GCC financial landscape.

Details of the Strategic Financial Partnership

In the vibrant economic environment of the United Arab Emirates, Deem Finance LLC, a finance company regulated by the Central Bank, has entered into a landmark agreement. This innovative deal, facilitated by legal experts from White & Case LLP, is designed to unlock new avenues for capital flow. The structure allows for the securitization of a diverse portfolio of assets originating within the UAE, including credit card receivables, personal loans, and merchant financing. By leveraging this diversified asset base, Deem Finance can now extend its reach to underserved segments of the population, particularly in consumer finance and the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sectors.

The transaction is expected to bolster Deem Finance's mission of fostering financial inclusion. It will enable the company to forge stronger collaborations with fintech firms, thereby supporting unbanked individuals and businesses that traditionally face barriers to accessing conventional financial services. The successful completion of this deal highlights the pivotal role played by White & Case LLP, whose team was led by partner Debashis Dey, along with local partner Greg Pospodinis and associates Eren Ayanlar and Felix Mueller. Their expertise in structuring complex financial instruments has been instrumental in bringing this pioneering initiative to fruition.

This development not only benefits Deem Finance but also serves as a beacon for other financial institutions in the GCC region, demonstrating the potential of asset-backed funding structures to drive innovation and inclusivity in the financial sector.

From a journalistic perspective, this transaction marks a significant milestone in the evolution of financial services in the UAE. It exemplifies how forward-thinking partnerships can bridge gaps in access to capital, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and resilient economy. For readers, it offers a glimpse into the transformative power of financial innovation and the critical role that legal and financial advisory firms play in shaping the future of the industry.