VC React Podcast (Episode #10)

In this week's episode of the VC React Podcast, we reflect on the launch of a new $200 million investment fund by a group of investors and GCC-based family offices, called Waad Investments, which will be led by prolific Saudi investor Yaser AlGhamdi. We explore the evolving relationship between family offices and VCs in the region and discuss the key differences, if any, between a typical VC firm and a family office from a founder's perspective.

We also analyse the implications of the merger between two of Africa's largest B2B e-commerce platforms, Kenya-based Wasoko and Egypt-based MaxAB. With co-founders Belal El-Megharbel and Daniel Yu announced as co-CEOs of the merged entity, we explore the dynamics of having co-CEOs and whether it's generally advisable for companies.

Lastly, we break down what a Web3 streaming platform entails, following UAE-based myco's $10 million Series A funding round. We also touch on the current state of equity crowdfunding in MENA, exploring its potential and challenges.

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This week Ahmad and I were delighted to be joined by the excellent:

Ali Al Majthoob (Managing Director @ MEVP)

Hasan Zainal (Managing Partner @ Arzan VC)

Tambi Jalouqa (Managing Partner @ Propeller)

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We covered:

📌 Gulf investors launch $200 million Waad Investment firm to support regional startups

📌 Egypt’s MaxAB and Kenya’s Wasoko complete merger of their B2B ecommerce platforms

📌 UAE Web3 streaming platform myco raises $10m in Series A funding

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