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Riyadh to host ‘2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ amid booming hospitality, real estate growth

Riyadh to host ‘2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ amid booming hospitality, real estate growth
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Riyadh to host ‘2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ amid booming hospitality, real estate growth
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Updated 06 April 2025

Riyadh to host ‘2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ amid booming hospitality, real estate growth

Riyadh to host ‘2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ amid booming hospitality, real estate growth

As º£½ÇÖ±²¥ continues to cement its position as a global tourism and investment hub, Hospitality and Real Estate owners, operators, developers, gigaproject delegations, consultants, manufacturers, and suppliers will convene at the “2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering†in May in Riyadh. 

Against the backdrop of Vision 2030’s ambitious targets, this event will explore the intersection of heritage and culture with design and guest experience, the adoption of cutting edge technology and innovation as well as the key sustainability initiatives that form a cornerstone of the rapid developments taking place across the Kingdom. 

The “2025 KSA Stakeholder Gatheringâ€Â will serve as a vital platform for collaboration, networking, and knowledge-sharing among the Kingdom’s top decision-makers.

“‘The 2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering’ is more than just a conference — it’s a strategic forum where industry leaders can engage in meaningful discussions, forge valuable partnerships, and contribute to the Kingdom’s economic growth,†says Martina Bjorkenor, MD, The Hospitality Network.

The event will feature a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers, including senior leaders, key decision-makers, and industry pioneers who are shaping the future of º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s real estate and hospitality landscape. 

These experts will provide in-depth insights into the unique and diverse developments shaping º£½ÇÖ±²¥ and the accompanying emphasis on heritage, culture, sustainability and innovation.

Highlights include keynote speakers Philip Wooller, STR, data benchmarking and market forecasting expert in the Middle East’s hospitality sector; and Joseph Bradley on the role of AI and smart technology in transforming the hospitality and real estate industries.

The conference will host a series of expert-led panel discussions, addressing key topics covering design & architecture, technology, development, and sustainability. 

As a highlight of the event, “The Hospitality Awardsâ€Â will celebrate outstanding achievements in º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s hospitality and real estate sectors. These awards will recognize innovation, sustainability, and leadership, with categories including “Sustainability Champion of the Year,†“Entertainment Visionary of the Year†and “Luxury Hospitality Pioneer of the Year†and more.Industry nominations will determine the winners, ensuring that the awards reflect the diverse voices of the industry. The ceremony will serve as a platform to honor the industry’s top innovators and visionaries.

In addition to structured discussions and presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in casual networking sessions. 

Specially curated networking sessions, coffee breaks, and evening receptions will provide a relaxed environment for industry professionals to connect, discuss potential collaborations, and strengthen business relationships. These informal gatherings will complement the main agenda, allowing attendees to exchange ideas and explore partnerships in a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

With an agenda featuring thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities, the “2025 KSA Stakeholder Gatheringâ€Â is a must-attend event for industry professionals. Participants will gain valuable knowledge, explore business prospects, and celebrate the advancements driving º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s hospitality and real estate industries forward.

For more information about the event, speaker lineup, or to register, please visit  ³¦´Ç²Ô³Ù²¹³¦³ÙÌı[email protected].


Wesam Medical and McLaren Health Care to bring new hematology & oncology hospital to Riyadh

Wesam Medical and McLaren Health Care to bring new hematology & oncology hospital to Riyadh
Updated 03 November 2025

Wesam Medical and McLaren Health Care to bring new hematology & oncology hospital to Riyadh

Wesam Medical and McLaren Health Care to bring new hematology & oncology hospital to Riyadh

Wesam Medical Holding, a Saudi healthcare investment company, has announced the signing of a strategic MoU with McLaren Health Care, one of the largest healthcare systems in the state of Michigan, US, and operator of the Karmanos Cancer Institute, to establish a specialized hematology and oncology hospital in Riyadh.

Under the terms of the MoU, Wesam Medical Holding will oversee all legal, regulatory, and local market operations, while McLaren Health Care will be responsible for clinical, operational, and technical components, including hospital design and construction.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s healthcare sector, representing McLaren’s entry into the Kingdom to provide comprehensive, integrated services for hematology and oncology patients. The collaboration will extend the reach of the system’s renowned Karmanos Cancer Institute, designated by the US National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The MoU was signed by Fahad Ibrahim Al-Khalaf, chairman of Wesam Medical Holding Company, and Dr. Barton Buxton, president and chief executive of McLaren Health Management Group, a subsidiary of McLaren Health Care. The partnership aims to transform oncology services in the Kingdom, aligning with the objectives of the Healthcare Sector Transformation Program.

The hospital represents the first standalone private comprehensive cancer center in the Kingdom, delivering fully integrated services across hematology and oncology disciplines. It provides high-quality care through Saudi consultants and a multidisciplinary team of highly qualified professionals.

The partnership with McLaren Health Care reflects a shared vision to advance clinical excellence, adopt state-of-the-art technologies, and apply internationally recognized best practices in cancer care and precision medicine.

Al-Khalaf said: “This partnership represents an important milestone in realizing our investment vision, which focuses on long-term strategic ventures that add sustainable value to the Kingdom’s healthcare sector. Following the completion of the feasibility study for the hematology and oncology hospital, we are pleased to launch this ambitious project in collaboration with McLaren Health Care, a system recognized globally for its excellence in oncology. Together, we will integrate our local expertise with McLaren’s clinical and technical capabilities to deliver specialized healthcare services of the highest international standards.â€

Dr. Buxton said: “Our collaboration with Wesam Medical Holding marks a significant step in McLaren Health Care’s global strategy. Through this partnership, we aim to extend our mission of delivering value-based healthcare through clinical excellence and cost efficiency beyond the US. Wesam Medical’s deep understanding of the Saudi healthcare landscape makes it an ideal partner. Together, we will integrate Karmanos Cancer Institute’s world-class oncology standards into the Kingdom’s healthcare system, beginning with Riyadh.â€

Prior to signing this memorandum, Wesam Medical conducted a detailed feasibility study for the establishment of the hospital in collaboration with a specialized healthcare consulting firm.

The hospital’s key strategic objectives and pillars include:

  1. Meeting the rising demand for specialized oncology services: Addressing the growing need for high-quality hematology and oncology care through the private sector, reducing the burden on government-run referral hospitals, and ensuring access to world-class care within the Kingdom.
  2. Leveraging McLaren’s expertise: Bringing the clinical and operational excellence of McLaren Health Care and its subsidiary, the Karmanos Cancer Institute, one of the leading oncology and research institutions in the US, to strengthen clinical research and national disease registries in º£½ÇÖ±²¥.
  3. Enhancing national workforce efficiency: Providing advanced training and professional development for Saudi physicians, nurses, and administrative personnel through knowledge transfer from McLaren and Karmanos experts, thereby improving the overall quality of healthcare services in the Kingdom.
  4. Transferring American knowledge and technology: Ensuring the delivery of diagnostic and therapeutic services that meet the highest international standards and align with the Kingdom’s vision for medical innovation and sustainability.

 


Meet the leading Malaysian construction and building materials players at Saudi Build 2025!

Meet the leading Malaysian construction and building materials players at Saudi Build 2025!
Updated 02 November 2025

Meet the leading Malaysian construction and building materials players at Saudi Build 2025!

Meet the leading Malaysian construction and building materials players at Saudi Build 2025!

As º£½ÇÖ±²¥ accelerates its ambitious Vision 2030 agenda, the Kingdom continues to witness remarkable transformation across its construction, infrastructure and industrial sectors. To support this dynamic growth and foster stronger bilateral cooperation, Malaysia will present 20 leading companies in the construction and building materials sectors, under its Global Buyers Program, at Saudi Build 2025 in Riyadh.

Organised by the Consulate General of Malaysia, Trade Section (MATRADE), in collaboration with SME Bank Malaysia, the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development of Malaysia and the Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia, the GBP initiative aims to strengthen Saudi-Malaysian business linkages in the construction and building materials sectors.

Malaysia has earned a global reputation for excellence in construction technology, project management, and industrial innovation. The country’s building and engineering ecosystem is supported by strong government initiatives, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a highly skilled workforce.

Through the GBP, Malaysian companies are ready to share their expertise, forge partnerships, and provide tailored solutions that support º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s major development projects — from smart cities and residential housing to green infrastructure and industrial facilities.

From Nov. 3 to 6, visitors can meet the following Malaysian exhibitors at Stand 4-430, Hall 4, Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, to explore innovative products, sustainable technologies, and collaborative business opportunities:

  1. Ah Hai Industries Sdn Bhd: A trusted name in building and construction materials and hardware, Ah Hai Industries offers durable, cost-effective solutions for large-scale infrastructure and commercial projects.
  2. Alistrade Enterprise Sdn Bhd: A specialist in facilities management, road maintenance, landscaping, and civil engineering, providing integrated solutions for operational efficiency and sustainability.
  3. CIDB IBS Sdn Bhd: A subsidiary of the Construction Industry Development Board, this company delivers fabricated items, industrial building construction, and project management services using modern IBS technologies.
  4. Corporate Learning Consultants Sdn Bhd: Offering professional development programs, ESG awareness training, leadership development, and AI-powered talent intelligence, Corporate Learning supports workforce excellence in the construction industry.
  5. Gemtex Sdn Bhd: A leader in electrical and electronic products and passive fire protection systems, Gemtex enhances safety and reliability in modern construction.
  6. GV Engineering Works (M) Sdn Bhd: Experts in plant maintenance, precision machining, and custom equipment design, GV Engineering provides advanced industrial solutions for maintenance and modernization.
  7. HTS Suppliers Sdn Bhd: A full-service construction and project management company, HTS Suppliers delivers residential, commercial, and industrial building solutions from start to finish.
  8. Industrial Concrete Products Sdn Bhd: A regional leader in high-strength concrete piles, offering durable foundation solutions for large-scale infrastructure projects.
  9. KCSS Wiremesh Sdn Bhd: Providing premium wire mesh and reinforcement materials, KCSS ensures strength and quality for all types of construction needs.
  10. Ligetech Automation Sdn Bhd: Specializing in indoor, outdoor, and façade lighting systems, Ligetech integrates energy efficiency and smart control into lighting innovation.
  11. M.B. Hi-Tech Engineering Services Sdn Bhd: Supplying electrical and electronic components that power automation systems and industrial applications.
  12. Mubiplas Industries Sdn Bhd: A pioneer in plastic manufacturing, offering medical plastics, F&B packaging, and eco-friendly plastic products aligned with sustainability goals.
  13. Novapave Sdn Bhd: Revolutionizing road construction with cellulose fiber additives that enhance asphalt performance and durability.
  14. Perbadanan PR1MA Malaysia: A property developer creating affordable, high-quality housing projects that support urban living and community development.
  15. Plytec IBS System MFG Sdn Bhd: Providing falsework, formwork, and access solutions, Plytec promotes faster and safer construction through industrialized building systems.
  16. Roszali & Haron Enterprise Sdn Bhd: A dependable supplier of building materials and hardware, supporting infrastructure and development projects nationwide.
  17. SSRV (M) Sdn Bhd: Delivering environmental protection services and technical consultancy, SSRV supports º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s green and sustainable development goals.
  18. Synar Setara Resources Sdn Bhd: Offering construction materials and related services, Synar Setara is a one-stop partner for building and infrastructure projects.
  19. Veritas Architects Sdn Bhd: An award-winning architectural consultancy providing advisory and pre-design services for visionary urban and commercial developments.
  20. WAA Bina (M) Sdn Bhd: A full-spectrum construction and engineering company, offering services from project management and framing to design and industrial construction.

Cambridge Health Group reveals new brand identity, Reinforces commitment to patient-centric care across GCC

Cambridge Health Group reveals new brand identity, Reinforces commitment to patient-centric care across GCC
Updated 30 October 2025

Cambridge Health Group reveals new brand identity, Reinforces commitment to patient-centric care across GCC

Cambridge Health Group reveals new brand identity, Reinforces commitment to patient-centric care across GCC

Cambridge Health Group has unveiled its new brand identity at the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh, marking a major milestone in the transformation of healthcare delivery across the region.

The group is the GCC’s leading provider of post-acute care, specifically inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, long-term care, and home healthcare services.

Its new brand builds upon a long-standing reputation for clinical excellence, compassion, and innovation, while reflecting a forward-looking vision to become the region’s largest and most-trusted post-acute care provider. 

The brand reinforces the group’s mission to deliver exceptional care through empowered teams, patient-first values, and regional scale. 

The unveiling of the new identity marks the foundation for the group’s next phase of growth, following a period of continued momentum, with capacity expansion, licensing and integration, as highlighted in its majority-owner, Amanat Holdings’ H1 2025 financial results. 

The refreshed brand also underscores the group’s dedication to improving the quality of life for patients through innovation, partnership, and people-focused care, positioning the group for its next phase of regional growth and impact.

During the Global Health Exhibition, Cambridge Health Group chairman, Dr. Ali Aldhaheri, along with fellow board members, met several distinguished guests.

Among them were Fahad Abdulrahman Aljalajel, the minister of health for º£½ÇÖ±²¥; Prof. Dr. Khaled Abdel-Ghaffor, deputy prime minister of health and population for Egypt; and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, chairman of Amanat Holdings PJSC.

Dr. Ali Aldhaheri said: “The unveiling of our new brand marks a defining moment for Cambridge Health Group as we continue to grow and strengthen our presence across the GCC. Our new identity reflects our position as a trusted regional leader in post-acute and rehabilitative care, and our focus on a future defined by innovation, excellence, and patient-centric healthcare.

“Our vision, ‘To be the region’s largest and most-trusted post-acute care provider, delivering exceptional care’, encapsulates our belief that our greatest strength lies in our people, our patients, our teams and our partners, who inspire us every day to deliver exceptional care and better outcomes.â€

Wael Abdallah, Group CEO of Cambridge Health Group, said: “The evolution of the Cambridge Health Group brand represents a milestone in our journey to define post-acute care in the region. It embodies our commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality, and accessible care, while ensuring our teams have the resources and environment to deliver the best outcomes for our patients. With our strong presence across the UAE and º£½ÇÖ±²¥, Cambridge Health Group is well-positioned to expand and elevate post-acute and long-term care throughout the GCC.â€

Cambridge Health Group operates six facilities across the GCC, including two in Abu Dhabi, and others in Al Ain, Jeddah, Khobar, and Dhahran, with 715 operational beds and a workforce of more than 1,100 healthcare professionals. 

Founded in 2012, the group has grown to become the region’s largest and most established provider of post-acute care. 

It delivers long-term care, rehabilitation, home healthcare, and outpatient services through a compassionate, evidence-based and patient-centric model designed to deliver world-class outcomes, support recovery, and improve long-term well-being. 

It is majority-owned by Amanat Holdings PJSC, the region’s leading listed healthcare and education investor.


Hyundai’s Chung, crown prince review group’s growth strategy

Hyundai’s Chung, crown prince review group’s growth strategy
Updated 30 October 2025

Hyundai’s Chung, crown prince review group’s growth strategy

Hyundai’s Chung, crown prince review group’s growth strategy

On his recent visit to º£½ÇÖ±²¥, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. The group’s local growth strategy and future business opportunities were reviewed during the meeting. 

Chung’s discussions with the crown prince covered a wide range of topics including the automotive industry and smart cities. This marked the first one-on-one meeting between the two leaders, though they had previously met twice, including during the crown prince’s 2022 visit to Korea.

“Hyundai Motor Group deeply understands the meaning and importance of Saudi Vision 2030,†said Chung. “Based on our competitive business capabilities, we are participating in º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s giga-projects and look forward to expanding collaboration in future energy sectors including renewable energy, hydrogen, small modular reactor, and nuclear energy.â€

Strategic partnership for Vision 2030

º£½ÇÖ±²¥ is pursuing Vision 2030, a national development project aimed at diversifying its economy from energy-focused industries toward manufacturing and hydrogen energy. The Kingdom is hosting international events including the World Expo and FIFA World Cup, positioning itself as one of the world’s most prominent emerging economies.

As the Middle East’s largest automotive market, º£½ÇÖ±²¥ is actively attracting global automakers, including Hyundai Motor, with the long-term goal of becoming an automotive hub serving not only the Middle East but also North Africa.

Executive Chair Chung expressed gratitude for the Saudi government’s continued interest and support, outlining Hyundai’s ongoing collaborative projects and future plans as a partner in realizing º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s vision for mobility and other sectors.

Regarding the new manufacturing facility in the Kingdom, Chung said: “Hyundai Motor is building a locally tailored factory with specialized equipment to meet º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s industrial demands and customer needs. We will also consider expanding production capacity based on future market conditions.â€

New production hub 

Prior to meeting the crown prince, Chung visited Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Middle East on Oct. 26 at the King Salman Automotive Cluster to review construction progress. Together with José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, Chung engaged in a business update session with Hyundai Motor and Kia local leaders and held in-depth discussions with employees about growth strategies.

“Establishing a production base in º£½ÇÖ±²¥ represents Hyundai Motor’s new opportunity in the Middle East,†Chung told employees working in extreme heat. “We must thoroughly prepare in every aspect to deliver mobility that exceeds customer expectations on time, in an environment different from our previous bases — characterized by high temperatures and desert conditions.â€

Muñoz said: “Our new º£½ÇÖ±²¥ production facility demonstrates Hyundai’s long-term commitment to the Middle East’s largest automotive market. This plant plays a strategic role in our global mid-term plan while supporting Vision 2030. We’re combining Hyundai’s manufacturing excellence with º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s talented workforce to deliver mobility solutions across automotive, smart cities, hydrogen energy, and future mobility.â€

HMMME, the first Hyundai Motor production facility in the Middle East, is a cornerstone for establishing Hyundai as a leading brand in º£½ÇÖ±²¥. The joint venture is 30 percent owned by Hyundai Motor and 70 percent by º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s Public Investment Fund. Construction began in May 2025, with operations targeted to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. The facility will have an annual production capacity of 50,000 units, manufacturing both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles.

The plant combines Hyundai Motor’s innovative manufacturing technology with º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s talented workforce and infrastructure, positioning it to play a crucial role in the growth and development of the Kingdom’s mobility ecosystem.

Hyundai Motor plans to operate HMMME as a high-quality vehicle production hub by implementing multi-model production facilities to address diverse customer needs, applying simple and robust design structures for easy maintenance, and incorporating cooling and dust-proof measures to handle high temperatures and sand.

Market growth and expansion

Hyundai Motor and Kia continue to grow in º£½ÇÖ±²¥, selling 149,604 units through September this year, an 8.5 percent increase year over year, with plans to reach approximately 210,000 units by year-end, up 5.9 percent from 2024.

Leveraging enhanced brand appeal and stable supply through the Saudi production base, Hyundai Motor aims to become the leading automotive company in º£½ÇÖ±²¥ through strategies including Saudi-exclusive special editions, an expanded SUV lineup based on customer preferences, and the launch of diverse eco-friendly vehicles including EVs, extended-range electric vehicles, and HEVs.

Kia plans to develop the recently launched Tasman pick-up truck as its flagship model while expanding EV and HEV supply. The brand is also focusing on capturing the PBV market in connection with º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s smart city projects.

Expanding collaboration 

Hyundai Motor is expanding partnerships with key Saudi institutions and companies across mobility, smart cities, and other sectors.

In September 2024, Hyundai Motor signed an agreement with NEOM for “introducing eco-friendly future mobility,†successfully demonstrating the Universe FCEV bus last May on routes connecting NEOM’s central business district with the high-altitude Trojena region at 2,080 meters above sea level. The group plans to continue collaboration as NEOM’s key partner in future mobility.

Last month, Kia launched a PV5 pilot project with Red Sea Global, one of º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s giga-project developers, following up on Hyundai Motor’s March 2024 MoU with RSG. Kia will provide PV5 passenger models and technical training support, contributing to eco-friendly mobility adoption and ecosystem development while delivering customized mobility solutions optimized for RSG’s tourism industry.

Hyundai is also partnering with the MISK Foundation, a nonprofit organization established by the crown prince in 2011, to foster local youth talent and explore smart city collaboration opportunities.


AI shoppers are coming:Are Saudi merchants ready?

AI shoppers are coming:Are Saudi merchants ready?
Updated 30 October 2025

AI shoppers are coming:Are Saudi merchants ready?

AI shoppers are coming:Are Saudi merchants ready?

E-commerce in º£½ÇÖ±²¥ is booming. According to the latest data from the Saudi Central Bank, online spending via mada cards surged to SR29.86 billion ($7.96 billion) in July — a 79.45 percent% increase year -on -year. This growth is driven by a young, tech- savvy population and near ubiquitous Internet access. In recent years, the retail experience has been transformed by the move from cash to digital payments. Now, the way Saudi residents shop is set to change again.

Progress in generative AI is bringing an era of hyper-personalized, automated shopping —agentic commerce. Soon, AI agents will anticipate needs, show the best choices, restock essentials and manage purchases in real time. They will also handle back office chores for merchants, from invoicing to settling disputes.

Agentic commerce could be highly rewarding for retailers ready to seize its opportunities and efficiencies. Merchants that act now will put themselves in a strong position to prosper.

How merchants can prepare 
Shops should start by putting their digital shelves in order. AI buyers work best when product information is complete and consistent. Every item should have details that a machine can read, such as size, material, price, tax, shipping, and stock. Promises should be exact. “Ships within one business day†is better than “ships fast.†Verified reviews, certifications, and sustainability claims should be stored in formats that AI can check instantly.  

A smooth checkout matters just as much. Shoppers, whether human or AI, are more likely to buy when the total cost is clear from the start, prices and stock match what was promised, and the process takes as few steps as possible.  

Reward programs will also need to adapt. AI agents will compare offers with the same care as a skilled shopper. Rewards that work across supermarkets, airlines, and fashion brands could all influence agents’ buying decisions.

Payment infrastructure is part of this readiness. The Visa Acceptance Platform, now hosted on a local Saudi cloud, offers merchants a single integration for faster, more secure transactions. It is designed to meet the latest specifications for agent‑driven payments, so businesses can connect once and remain ready as standards evolve.

Building trust in AI- driven payments  
Commerce depends on the systems that let buyers pay and merchants take and manage transactions. Those systems must also be trusted. Shoppers, sellers and banks all need confidence that AI- driven payments are safe and reliable. Agents will have to capture the buyer’s intent, process payments securely and deal with problems such as fraud or disputes.

Visa is building frameworks that consumers and merchants can trust. Visa Intelligent Commerce, for example, links AI agents to its network with credentials and controls to keep transactions secure. And the Visa Acceptance Agent Toolkit, now in pilot, can turn back- office jobs such as invoicing or sending payment links into tasks an AI agent can handle with a simple prompt.  

Embracing AI shoppers 
º£½ÇÖ±²¥ has embraced new ways to shop before. In 2023, the Kingdom  already reached Vision 2030’s target of 70 percent% non- cash retail transactions —ahead of its 2025  schedule. This momentum continued, with the amount of non-cash transactions climbing to 79 percent% in 2024. Saudi residents are likely to adopt agentic commerce with the same enthusiasm. For merchants, the challenge is not just to deliver the goods, but to do so in ways that keep both human and silicon shoppers coming back.

  • The writer, Rob Cameron, is the Global Head of Visa Acceptance Solutions.