Happy Wednesday everyone!

IHC, Alpha Wave, and Temasek have invested in India’s Haldiram’s, valuing the snack giant at $10 billion as it expands into the US and Middle East. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has announced a Gulf tour in May, planning visits to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to secure $1 trillion+ in investments. In retail, the UAE beauty industry is thriving, with Ramadan sales surging 20%, driven by demand for luxury and skincare products.

Let’s dive in!

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IHC, Alpha Wave, and Temasek Invest in India’s Haldiram’s at $10 Billion Valuation

📰 What is it about?

• Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC), New York’s Alpha Wave Global, and Singapore’s Temasek have invested in Haldiram’s, a leading Indian snack manufacturer.

• The investment was part of an equity financing round, with PwC acting as the financial advisor.

• IHC and Alpha Wave collectively acquired a 6% minority stake, while Temasek took a 10% stake for INR 85 billion ($1 billion).

• The deal values Haldiram’s at $10 billion.

💡 Why it matters?

• The investment signals strong global investor confidence in India’s FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) sector.

• Haldiram’s is a household name in India, with a presence in 100 countries, including the US, UK, and Japan.

• The company will use the funding to expand across the US and the Middle East, tapping into the growing demand for Indian snacks.

• IHC continues to deepen its presence in India, following its increased stake in Adani Enterprises in 2023.

• Alpha Wave is known for investing in high-profile companies, including Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

🔜 What’s next?

• The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close soon.

• Haldiram’s expansion into international markets will challenge global snack brands and push Indian flavors onto a larger stage.

• IHC and other investors may seek further opportunities in India's FMCG sector, leveraging the country’s growing consumer base.

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📰 What is it about?

• Odeum, the content studio built for modern media consumption, partnering with brands to deliver tailored content services while also creating original productions under the Augustus Media network.

💡 Why Choose ODEUM?

At ODEUM, we provide end-to-end media solutions to elevate your brand across multiple platforms.

• Video Production: From AI-powered videos to immersive live streaming and CGI storytelling.

• Animation Services: Dynamic 2D & 3D animation, motion graphics, and visually striking CGI. 

• Audio Production: Podcasting, sound design, and professional voiceovers that elevate content with immersive audio experiences.

• Original Content Development: Conceptualizing and producing shows, short films, and series that engage and inspire.

• Studio Rental: Fully equipped production spaces designed for seamless content creation, offering state-of-the-art filming, podcasting, and photography setups to bring creative visions to life.

🔜 What’s next?

• Have a project in mind? Let's make it happen!

• Book a studio or discuss your next big idea with us today.

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Markets

Trump Announces Gulf Tour in May, Adding UAE, Qatar with Saudi Arabia

📰 What is it about?

• U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE as early as May.

• The trip aims to sign investment agreements, including a $1 trillion deal with Saudi Arabia.

• Trump hinted at similar agreements in Qatar and the UAE, focusing on job creation and economic growth.

• Discussions will also cover key geopolitical issues, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

💡 Why it matters?

• This will be Trump’s first foreign visit of his second term, setting the tone for his Middle East policy.

• Saudi Arabia has been a key U.S. partner, hosting previous ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine.

• The potential $1 trillion investment could have a significant impact on the U.S. economy, particularly in defense and infrastructure.

• Trump's trip may also push forward the expansion of the Abraham Accords, though Saudi Arabia remains cautious due to the ongoing Gaza war.

🔜 What’s next?

• The White House has yet to finalize the travel itinerary.

• Further negotiations on the investment agreements will likely take place before the visit.

• Observers will watch whether Saudi Arabia moves closer to joining the Abraham Accords or maintains its current stance.

UAE Beauty Industry Sees Ramadan Sales Surge, Led by 20% Growth

What is happening?

• The UAE’s beauty industry has witnessed a significant revenue boost during Ramadan, driven by increased demand for cosmetics and personal care products.

• Sales of beauty products have grown over 20% year-on-year, contributing to Ramadan’s projected $10 billion retail sales in the UAE.

• Brands have responded with exclusive Ramadan collections and extended promotions, capitalizing on evolving shopping habits.

• Sheglam.com saw a 40% sales jump, with eyeliner sales soaring 200% in March.

• UKLash.com recorded an 86% annual increase, noting heightened demand for hair growth serums.

Why it matters:

• Ramadan has become a peak shopping period, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a thriving beauty market.

• Cultural traditions, social gatherings, and marketing campaigns drive seasonal spending patterns, benefiting global and local brands.

• The beauty sector is a key growth driver within the UAE’s wider retail industry, helping sustain economic momentum.

• International brands see the Middle East as a critical market for expansion, with Sheglam’s CEO highlighting the region’s importance.

What’s next?

• Brands may extend Ramadan-inspired promotions beyond the holy month to maintain sales momentum.

• The success of Ramadan campaigns could lead to more region-specific product launches in the future.

• The beauty industry’s strong Ramadan performance may encourage further investments in the UAE’s retail sector.

🔍In other news…

1. Oil steadies near $75 as market weighs tariffs, sanctions

2. UAE-backed Cerebras passes US security check before IPO: AGBI

3. Golden visa lure draws Turks to Dubai real estate.

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