Dubai Financial Market (DFM) has unveiled its new flagship initiative, ARENA, an innovative platform for initial private offerings (IPOs), targeting private companies at various stages of growth.
The new platform will allow family conglomerates, SMEs and companies at various growth stages to access capital through diverse assets including equity and debt with plans. Meanwhile, venture capital firms can use ARENA to expand their investor base by selling private market shares, therefore accessing a new liquidity pool.
Privately listed companies on ARENA will have the option of limiting investor’s access to institutional investors, employees-only, or family and founding members, offering a unique pre-IPO listing option.
“The announcement of ARENA marks a pivotal moment in DFM’s commitment to providing issuers with a transparent and streamlined avenue for capital raising,” said DFM’s CEO Hamed Ali. “The platform combines the advantages and efficiency of direct listing with the DFM’s diverse investor base and capabilities.
“Additionally, it enables investors to easily access private investments in the UAE’s most promising companies and brands, unlocking investment opportunities that were previously inaccessible.”
ARENA is targeting companies seeking to raise over Dh35 million, DFM said at the second edition of the MENA Capital Market Summit.
