VC React Podcast (E28): Stock Market Reactions, Quick Commerce, BNPL vs. Credit Cards, FashionTech!

VC React Podcast:

Every week, we bring you insights and reactions from top VCs, LPs, and Angel Investors, reacting to the latest news on MENA startups, VCs, and investment rounds. Stay tuned for: expert analysis, independent opinions, and maybe some heated conversations!

Hosts:

• Ahmad Takatkah, VCpreneur.
  Sign up to VCpreneur Newsletter on https://www.vcpreneur.com/

• Jamie Lane, FWDstart.
  Sign up to FWDstart Newsletter on https://www.fwdstart.me/

Available on:

• Youtube: VC React Podcast

• Spotify: VC React Podcast

• Apple: VC React Podcast

• Amazon: VC React Podcast

Guests:

1. Maxim Shkvaruk, Managing Director @ Atlas Ventures
- LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maximshkvaruk/
- VC Firm Website: https://atlas.ventures/

2. Mo Salah, Partner @ Pitlane Ventures
- LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisismosalah/

3. Nour Allam, Investment Associate @ Plus VC
- LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nour-allam/
- VC Firm Website: https://plus.vc/

In Today's Episode:

News of the week brought to you by FWDstart:

• UAE’s Talabat acquires Instashop from Delivery Hero for $32 million
  Summary: talabat has acquired 100% of InstaShop from Delivery Hero for $32 million, fully funded through its internal cash reserves. Effective February 25, 2025, InstaShop will be consolidated into talabat’s financial accounts while continuing as an independent brand within talabat’s grocery and retail vertical. Founded in 2015 by John Tsioris and Ioanna Angelidaki, InstaShop operates in the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, and Qatar, connecting users with local vendors across groceries, pharmacy items, beauty, and personal care products. In 2024, it recorded a $631M GMV, growing 16% YoY and contributing 8% to talabat’s GMV. With its integration, talabat’s grocery and retail GMV now exceeds $2.5B.

• Saudi-Based Ninja Eyes $1B+ Valuation in New Funding Round
  Summary: Saudi quick commerce startup Ninja is in talks to raise funds at a valuation exceeding $1 billion, with Riyad Capital leading the round. Operating in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, Ninja is also eyeing an IPO by 2027, signaling strong investor interest in tech-enabled businesses with a clear path to public listing. Riyad Capital, a key player in the region’s startup ecosystem, has backed firms like Foodics, Sure Global Tech, and Unifonic.

• BNPL Tamara receives SAMA license for consumer finance
  Summary: Tamara has received a consumer finance and BNPL license from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), allowing it to offer financing solutions exceeding $1,333 and significantly expanding beyond its previous BNPL limits. This approval makes Tamara one of 65 licensed finance companies in Saudi Arabia, enabling it to serve a broader customer base and diversify its financial products.

• Saudi fashion marketplace Aya raises $1.6 million seed
  Summary: Saudi Arabia-based e-commerce platform Aya has closed a $1.6 million seed funding round, led by Khwarizmi Ventures, with participation from Raed Ventures, Joa Capital, FENA Holdings, Turki Alrajhi, and a group of angel investors. Founded in 2024 by Munira Al Kadi and Abdulrahman Al Ammar, Aya forecasts fashion trends and links local producers with current demand to ensure the manufacturing of only the most popular styles. This investment will allow Aya to accelerate product development, expand its market presence, and enhance its platform to provide an unparalleled customer experience.

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