In this episode of Kidbrooke Insights, we explore one of the most important shifts happening across the UAE and the wider Middle East: the transition from traditional end-of-service benefits (EOSB) toward modern, long-term group pension and savings solutions.

The UAE region is undergoing a pivotal reform moment. As employers move away from lump-sum gratuity payouts, insurers and financial institutions are now being asked to deliver sustainable, flexible retirement solutions that support long-term financial wellbeing, for both expat and local employees.

To unpack the opportunities and challenges ahead, Natalie Burke is joined by two industry experts:

• Adil Saghir, Head of Savings & Pensions at HAYAH Insurance
• Erik Brodin, Product Expert at Kidbrooke

Together, they break down what’s happening across group pensions in the UAE, from the impact of the EOSB reform to how digital tools and financial wellness initiatives are shaping engagement. They also share real lessons from the field, along with how technology and analytics are helping insurers bring new solutions to market faster.

Whether you're an insurer, group benefits provider, policy maker, or HR leader, this episode offers practical insights into how the UAE’s pension landscape is evolving, and also what will distinguish the market leaders over the next 3–5 years.

Resources & Links:

To learn more about Kidbrooke, visit: https://kidbrooke.com

To learn more about Hayah Insurance, visit: https://hayah.com

Blog references: Life by Kidbrooke: The Employee Benefits Platform for a Post-Gratuity World - Kidbrooke Blog

Research Spotlight: The Digital Future of UAE Group Pensions After the End of Service Gratuity Reform - Kidbrooke Blog

For inquiries: info@kidbrooke.com

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In this episode of Kidbrooke’s Insights Podcast, host Natalie Burke sits down with CEO Fredrik Davéus to explore Kate by Kidbrooke®, a GenAI-powered solution designed to support financial institutions beyond the chatbot hype.

They unpack:

• The story behind Kate and why it was built
• How Kate combines generative AI with deterministic financial models for reliable automation
• Use cases across compliance, client engagement, and advisor efficiency
• What sets Kate apart in transparency, auditability, and back-office transformation
• The realities of AI adoption in finance today, plus what’s on the horizon

Whether you're an innovator, advisor, or tech leader in financial services, this conversation is brimming with insights on the future of AI-powered decision support.

📘 Related case studies discussed/articles:

Beyond Automation: AI in Financial Advice That Works With, Not Instead of, Your Advisors – Kidbrooke

Smarter AI Customer Support for Financial Services – Kidbrooke

Introducing Kate – Intelligent Financial Conversations Powered by KidbrookeONE – Kidbrooke

We're back in action for episode 17 of the Kidbrooke Insights Podcast! 😊

Join Natalie and Zaliia as they unpack the key trends shaping the financial industry in 2025.

Starting with the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US and China, driving global uncertainty and economic volatility. We explore the significant demographic changes; creating a higher demand for retirement planning, as well as emerging markets facing challenges around employment and financial inclusion.

The conversation turns to AI’s growing role in wealth management, highlighting how generative AI and large language models (LLMs) are transforming client interactions through personalised, intuitive digital experiences. We look at the importance of structured financial models to ensure reliability, mitigate risks, and maintain client trust.

Lastly, Natalie and Zaliia unpack Gen Z’s investment habits, their expectation for authenticity, digital-first experiences and the rising trend of “finfluencers”. We discuss the growing emphasis on transparency, especially for investors prioritising authentic ESG commitments.

Tune in as Natalie and Zaliia discuss these fascinating shifts shaping the future of the financial industry.

Links:

https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/18/the-three-forces-that-will-shape-2025

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/10/21/wealth-management-trends-to-watch-in-2025/

https://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/our-research/dependency-and-depopulation-confronting-the-consequences-of-a-new-demographic-reality

https://kidbrooke.com/2024/12/12/navigating-the-promise-and-perils-of-generative-ai-in-wealth-management/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/kolawolesamueladebayo/2025/01/20/experts-predict-the-bubble-may-burst-for-ai-in-2025/

https://www.thetimes.com/article/5614dab0-5632-11e9-a8f5-a9ee11ff7e6d

https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2023/06/21/how-esg-became-part-of-americas-culture-wars

https://kidbrooke.com/2024/09/20/fund-information-review-2024-sweden/

https://www.ey.com/en_pk/newsroom/2024/12/investors-shun-long-term-esg-rewards-in-quest-for-short-term-gains