Happy Monday and Season’s Greetings!

As we enter the holiday season, this edition of The Digital Bridge celebrates groundbreaking innovations, global collaborations, and the spirit of giving. From Saudi Arabia’s growing partnerships with the UK to Bitcoin's record-breaking milestone and even a gift suggestion for the thinkers in your life, we’re embracing the future while celebrating the present. Join us as we explore the stories shaping 2025 and beyond!

This week’s highlights include:

• Saudi X UK Digital Economy: Saudi Arabia and UK’s Digital Economy

• LEAP 2025: Into New Worlds

• Bridging Worlds: A Perfect Gift for the Holidays

• Philanthropy Spotlight: Creating a Legacy Through Giving

• What’s New? Bitcoin Crosses $100K: A Cryptocurrency Milestone

SAUDI X UK DIGITAL ECONOMY
The Future of Saudi Arabia and UK’s Digital Economy

Saudi Arabia and the UK are redefining their relationship, with trade reaching an impressive £17.6 billion ($22.4 billion) in the year ending March 2024. Through Vision 2030, the Kingdom is leveraging economic diversification while the UK strengthens ties within the Gulf region.

Key Highlights:

• A declaration of intent signed between the Saudi Tourism Authority and VisitBritain to bolster tourism expertise.

• Bilateral trade targets set at £30 billion ($39.6 billion) by 2030.

• Collaborative initiatives spanning clean technology, cultural exchange, and heritage preservation.

This partnership symbolizes more than commerce; it’s a merging of innovation and cultural understanding, with both nations pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a globalized world.

LEAP 2025
Recapping Leap 2024 as we prepare for Leap 2025 

Saudi Arabia’s premier tech event, LEAP, is back from February 9-12, promising a dynamic showcase of innovation and ingenuity. Held in Riyadh, this year’s edition features over 680 startups, 1,800 global brands, and 1,000+ thought leaders, including a host of transformative discussions and demonstrations.

Key Highlights for 2025:

• LEAP Nights: Evening events blending Riyadh’s vibrant culture with exclusive networking opportunities.

• Tech Arena: Witness live demos of futuristic tech and cutting-edge prototypes. Startup Stage: Emerging innovators pitching transformative ideas that define tomorrow.

• SportsTech Track: An exciting intersection of sports and technology featuring interactive innovations.

  
  Having had the privilege of delivering keynotes and participating on panels at LEAP 2024, I’m inspired to see how this event continues to elevate Saudi Arabia’s standing as a global tech hub. LEAP isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement driving the next wave of digital transformation and human innovation.

Leap 2024 Recap

Catch a glimpse of my highlights and key takeaways from LEAP 2024 in this recap video. Let’s reflect on the conversations that shaped last year’s tech discourse and set the stage for even greater innovation in 2025!

A PERFECT GIFT FOR THE HOLIDAYS
The Bridging Worlds Book

Looking for a Christmas gift that sparks curiosity and inspires? 🎁 My book, Bridging Worlds by is a thought-provoking journey into how technology and leadership shape our world.

Perfect for the thinker, the innovator, or that one friend who’s always two steps ahead, this book wraps up big ideas about the future in an engaging and accessible way. It's a stocking stuffer with smarts!

🎄 Why not gift the magic of insight this season? Order your copy today and give someone a head start on embracing the digital age—wrapped in holiday cheer!

PHILANTHROPY SPOTLIGHT
Creating a Legacy Through Giving

The spirit of giving extends far beyond the holiday season. My wife and I are deeply committed to supporting education and community-building initiatives, believing that giving is not just a gesture but a legacy that lives on through future generations.

Aldenham School Bursary (UK): This bursary, inspired by my teacher Mr. McAllister, honors his legacy by supporting deserving students from diverse backgrounds.

Westgate Mennonite Collegiate Bursary (Canada): My wife, moved by the impact of her teacher Mr. BachMeyer, established this bursary to recognize students who contribute meaningfully to their school and community.

University of Manitoba Bursary: In partnership with the Max Rady College of Medicine, we honor Dr. Elizabeth Boustcha, a pioneer in geriatrics. This bursary supports future female physicians dedicated to transforming elderly care.

Giving where it matters most—through time, talent, and treasure—is a value we hold dear. We invite you to join us in creating opportunities that change lives and leave an enduring impact. Let’s make giving a cornerstone of our legacy.

WHATS NEW?
Bitcoin Crosses $100K: A Cryptocurrency Milestone 

Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $103,670 on December 5, marking a historic moment for the cryptocurrency.

Key Developments:

• Bitcoin ETFs saw $3.3 billion in net inflows over four days.

• BlackRock’s IBIT crossed $50 billion in assets under management.

• Bitcoin’s market cap nears $2 trillion.

This milestone underscores the growing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrency and the role it plays in reshaping global finance.

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