👋 Good morning, Smashi Business Readers!

🗞️ This week, we’re diving into a high-profile career farewell, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans for a world-class stadium, and Moody’s optimistic economic forecast for the UAE.

Let’s get into the details! 👇

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1️⃣ 🎉 Farewell to a Legacy: Sofiène Marzouki Says Goodbye to Talabat

📰 What is it about?

• After 5.5 impactful years, Sofiène Marzouki is parting ways with Talabat. He’s credited with key achievements like rebranding Egypt’s Otlob into Talabat and forming a landmark branding partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo.

💡 Why it matters?

• Marzouki played a pivotal role in shaping Talabat's regional growth and partnerships during his tenure, leaving behind a legacy that will influence the company’s future trajectory.

🔜 What’s next?

• While his next move remains undisclosed, Marzouki hinted at exciting horizons ahead. We’ll be watching closely for updates on his journey!

📈 Markets

Smashi Sports Renews Sponsorship of the UAE National Basketball Team for Second Consecutive Year

Smashi Sports, a sub-brand of Smashi TV under Augustus Media, has renewed its sponsorship of the UAE National Basketball Team for a second year. The collaboration highlights Smashi's dedication to promoting regional sports as the team prepares for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers in Saudi Arabia.

As the official digital partner of the UAE Basketball Federation, Smashi Sports broadcasts local league games using advanced AI-powered cameras across 15 sports clubs. With 59.8 million social impressions and over 1.46 million followers, Smashi is transforming MENA sports broadcasting, fostering community engagement, and celebrating regional athletes.

2️⃣ ⚽ Saudi Arabia’s Game-Changing King Salman Stadium

📰 What is it about?

• Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art King Salman Stadium in Riyadh. Designed to seat 92,000 and equipped with cutting-edge features, it’s set to open in 2029.

💡 Why it matters?

• This stadium will not only host the 2034 FIFA World Cup but also serve as a major hub for sports and entertainment, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's ambitions on the global stage.

🔜 What’s next?

• Expect construction updates in the coming years and international attention as the Kingdom gears up for the World Cup.

💭Quote of the day
"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." - Many 

3️⃣ Doha Hosts Star-Studded Inaugural Sportico World Summit 🌍

📰 What is it about?

• Doha, Qatar, was the gathering spot for global leaders, business moguls, and entertainment stars this week for the inaugural Sportico World Summit. The event hosted figures like Barack Obama, Ryan Reynolds, and Magic Johnson.

💡 Why it matters?

• The summit is a strategic meeting of minds from diverse sectors, focused on fostering international collaboration across sports, business, and culture.

🔜 What’s next?

• With Doha emerging as a key player in global affairs, this summit is set to become an annual tradition. It strengthens Qatar’s position as a hub for high-level discussions and cultural exchange.

🔍In other news…

1. Jaguar Faces Backlash Over Rebrand Ad Lacking Focus on Cars

2. Jana Medical’s landmark IPO on the Saudi Stock Exchange’s Nomu Parallel Market has seen a remarkable 150.4% oversubscription.

3. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel celebrate the opening of Snapchat’s regional HQ in Saudi Arabia by taking a snap together.

4. "The Final Pitch" a popular business reality TV series, is expanding to the Middle East with its first edition in Dubai.

The Latest from the Smashi Business Studio

👋 Hello, That’s Me - Your Content Buddy

What is Odeum?

Odeum is Augustus Media’s innovative in-house content studio, where creativity meets data-driven insights to produce compelling new media formats. Specializing in connecting brands with communities and culture, Odeum offers a range of services tailored to your needs.

Why Do Brands Need a Content Strategy?

An authentic story is key to connect with audiences on a personal level. That’s why a well-crafted social content strategy helps brands resonate with the internet generation and earn their trust. Odeum excels in modern content creation, offering expertise in social media management and access to fully equipped studios.

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