RIYADH: Financial robo-advisory firm Abyan Capital has secured $18 million in funding in further evidence of the growing confidence in the Kingdom’s artificial intelligence sector. Led by STV, the funding round also saw participation from Aramco’s Wa’ed Ventures and RZM Investment. Robo-advisors are digital platforms that utilize AI and machine learning algorithms to automate and optimize investment processes. Founded in 2022 by Abdullah Al-Jeraiwi, Omar Al-Mania and Saleh Al-Aqeel, Abyan Capital is a financial services company that provides an automated solution and portfolio management for long-term investments. “Abyan Capital stands out by unlocking the SR300 billion ($80 billion) investment management and wealth advisory sector for investors from all backgrounds in Saudi Arabia, through its mobile-first, robo-advisory model,” Yazeed Al-Turki, principal at STV, said in a statement. In a short period of time, he said Abyan has enabled a large base of first-time investors to access multiple wealth management solutions, underscoring the team’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity. “We are delighted to partner with Abdullah, Saleh and the team on their journey to redefine the wealth management ecosystem in the Kingdom,” Al-Turki added. The company aims to utilize its newly secured funds to further enhance its platform, expand its suite of financial products, and accelerate its market penetration across the investment solution value chain. “Today, we are proud that in a very short amount of time, Abyan has exceeded deposits of over SR1.4 billion and more than 100,000 portfolios invested. And we will be launching new diversified products soon with a goal to make Abyan the digital retail investment house,” said Al-Jeraiwi, the CEO.