Strategy & Operations

Freedom Telecom International and e& Sign Strategic MoU

08 Jan 2026

Freedom Telecom International (FTI), a subsidiary of Freedom Holding Corp. (FRHC), and e&, a leading global technology group, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore strategic collaboration opportunities at the intersection of telecommunications and financial technology across international markets.

The MoU establishes a high-level framework for cooperation, enabling both organizations to leverage their respective strengths in fintech, digital financial services, and telecom innovation. Through this collaboration, FTI and e& intend to assess opportunities to introduce new digital value propositions, explore advisory capabilities, and examine areas where jointly developed fintech–telco initiatives may create meaningful impact in future partner markets.

Although preliminary by design, the agreement represents a meaningful step toward a broader strategic collaboration. In the spirit of this partnership, both parties will continue exploring ways to deepen their cooperation and unlock joint opportunities across relevant markets.

Timur Turlov, Founder & CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., commented:

“Telecommunications development is a core pillar of our long-term strategy. Partnering with such a major global player as e& opens new horizons for Freedom Telecom International’s global growth. The combined strengths of a global telecom ecosystem and a high-growth fintech platform enable us to scale innovation across key markets. We firmly believe that this synergy will create strong competitive advantages and accelerate the implementation of joint initiatives worldwide.”

Jasim Abdalla, Head, Partner Networks, e& international said:

“We see strong potential to work with trusted partners who help us bring more value to customers. This collaboration with FTI builds on our experience serving more than 250 million overall subscribers, including more than 16 million fintech customers across international markets. Together we aim to expand reliable financial services into new markets and develop offerings that meet real customer needs.”

Johannes Hummer, CEO of Freedom Telecom International, commented:

“This MoU marks an important milestone in our relationship with e&. Together, we are exploring how the combined strengths of a global technology group and a high-growth financial technology ecosystem can open new avenues for innovation across diverse markets. Today’s signing is the first step toward building long-term, scalable value for customers and partners worldwide.”

About the Signing Parties

e&

e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2024 showing a consolidated revenue of AED 59.2 billion and a net profit of AED 10.8 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet.

Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms.

The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation.

Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities.

To learn more about e&, visit eand.com.

Freedom Telecom International (FTI)

Freedom Telecom International supports global partners in deploying and integrating Freedom Holding Corp’s portfolio of digital financial and lifestyle services. FTI also evaluates and executes investment opportunities in the telecom and (fin)tech sectors, helping drive financial and digital inclusion in emerging and frontier markets.

Learn more: https://freedomtelecominternational.com/