Morning Drive

Tim Elliott and financial journalist Siddesh Mayenkar did a roundup of the highlights of Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW). They discuss the event's role in positioning Abu Dhabi as a financial centre, the new digital Dirham, the gold surge, the latest Fed rate decision, and the global corporate drama surrounding the Warner Bros./Paramount acquisition, highlighting the interest and alleged involvement of Saudi and Qatari funds like the PIF and QIA.

Goldstrom Advisory CEO Jeff Rhosed joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to analyse the precious metals market following the Fed's latest 25 basis point cut. The CEO explains why gold is a "steady eddy" despite a 55% price appreciation and argues the dollar's strength is irrelevant. He shares an optimistic outlook on silver, stating a $125 price is "a matter of when, not if," and discusses global demand from India and China.

Tim Elliott interviews VIKST founder Viktor Moller on the evolving e-commerce landscape. They discuss the fierce competition and the shift to creative-heavy paid social (or 'paid ads') from 2025, stressing that 'people buy from people'. Looking ahead, the focus is on AI content, strong user experience (UX/UI), and holistic digital performance for brands to achieve growth in the UAE.

Tim Elliott speaks to Scott Wilcox, Founder of Sicuro Group, about the key risk considerations for organisations exploring opportunities in post-conflict and high-risk markets. They analyse the political and economic landscape, legal compliance, and operational challenges—including workforce, due diligence, and logistics—for businesses entering Syria.

Mira Business FM's Tim Elliott interviews Dr Adnan Aziz, Shariah Advisor and Auditor, for an 'Islamic Finance 101'. They clarify the misconception around 'Halal money' (it's the use, not the money itself) and discuss the sector's rapid growth (projected $7.5 trillion by 2028). Dr Aziz gives compelling real-life examples contrasting Islamic finance principles with conventional banking, demonstrating the value and protection offered when things go wrong, such as with car finance or property loss.

AI and data expert Vasudha Khandeparkar joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to discuss transformative AI and data milestones. She highlights key UAE announcements like the Digital Dirham and AI curriculum in schools. Learn how financial services and healthcare achieved rapid adoption by making small, strategic improvements. A must-listen for any organisation looking to leverage data for growth, enhance customer experience, and identify critical future skills.

Investigative journalist Mazhar Farooqui from Khaleej Times discusses the prevalence of scams in Dubai with Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM. He exposes the shocking scale of modern financial crime, covering sophisticated Ponzi schemes, Forex syndicates, and the ridiculous $8 million loss on the 'Bao Bao Panda' meme coin. Learn why caution is crucial as recovering money is notoriously difficult.

Ahead of the Global Airports Forum (GAF) on 16 and 17 December in Riyadh, Tim Elliott hosts Daniyal Qureshi & Daksha Patel on Mira Business FM. They discuss the GAF's rapid expansion, its role as a key world-class meeting point for aviation leaders, and massive regional investment aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

Hear from Rory McLoughlin, Filmmaker and Founder of Like Minds UAE, in conversation with Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM. Fresh from attending the Bridge Summit in Abu Dhabi, Rory brings a current perspective on the media sector. He shares the story behind establishing the UAE's thriving community for freelancers and creatives. Discover the landscape for filmmaking and creative entrepreneurship in Dubai, the challenges of building a successful creative business, and the power of community in the Middle East's dynamic media sector.

Mira Business FM host Tim Elliott welcomes Raymond Kisswany, Partner at Davidson & Co Law Firm, to discuss essential consumer protection laws in the UAE. Learn your rights on everything from misleading advertising and refunds to navigating e-commerce disputes. This essential programme helps all UAE shoppers, diners, tenants, and online customers protect their investments and save stress.