Maser Group CEO looks to scale investments in Africa

Maser Group, a prominent electronic firm, has recently made a significant move by launching MDR Investments, a new investment vehicle aimed at fostering new start-ups with potential for expansion across Africa. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, the group's CEO, Prateek Suri, discussed the company's strategic investments and plans for the future. Suri highlighted the group's strong presence in the Middle East and Africa markets and the establishment of MDR Investment LLC in Dubai as a pivotal step in their investment strategy. They have allocated substantial funds to support start-ups and acquire ventures in various sectors, particularly focusing on technology-driven companies such as those involved in Pentec and AI. Maser Group is actively engaging with potential start-ups to explore equity participation and drive innovation in the region. Furthermore, the company recently acquired a shipping business in Nigeria, signaling their interest in the profitable venture of dismantling and selling ships across multiple regions, including Dubai. This move aligns with their commitment to identifying lucrative opportunities in Africa's business landscape. Suri emphasized the continent's vibrant potential, driven by a young and rapidly urbanized population. Notably, he pointed out the growing trend of women entrepreneurs in Africa, highlighting the energy and enthusiasm displayed by female founders in the region. Suri underscored the significance of blockchain technology and the metaverse in shaping the future of the internet and customer experience. He mentioned the potential of blockchain and extended reality technologies like virtual and augmented reality to revolutionize various industries. Start-ups, particularly in the technology sector, are positioned as key drivers of economic growth in Africa, offering innovative solutions and creating employment opportunities. From a strategic standpoint, Suri discussed the evolving landscape of start-ups in Africa and the Middle East, emphasizing the rapid growth of the internet of things and the gaming industry. He highlighted the role of blockchain as a central element in the global economy's transformation, positioning Africa as a potential hub for technological advancements and investment opportunities. As Maser Group attains unicorn status with a billion-dollar valuation, Suri sees this milestone as a motivation to further expand their investment arm and support start-ups across Africa and the Middle East. He expressed a commitment to leveraging their extensive network and expertise to guide and fund promising ventures in the region. Suri's vision entails bridging the gap between aspiring founders in Africa and the thriving ecosystem in Dubai, fostering growth and innovation across borders. Looking ahead, Suri emphasized the importance of embracing technological advancements, especially in the realm of artificial intelligence and the internet of things. He urged businesses to adapt swiftly to the changing landscape of technology to stay competitive and relevant in the market. As companies like Maser Group position themselves for more investments in emerging technologies, the internet of things is poised to revolutionize industries and drive economic growth at an unprecedented pace. In conclusion, Maser Group's strategic approach to scaling investments in Africa underscores their commitment to fostering innovation, supporting start-ups, and leveraging technological advancements to drive economic growth in the region. With a focus on emerging technologies and a keen eye on market trends, Maser Group is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of business and investment in Africa.