The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has permitted four fintech startups to operate under its Regulatory Sandbox, allowing them to test new solutions in the Saudi market. The permitted firms are SpireTech (open banking), The Lending Hub and Soar (peer-to-peer lending), and Ldun (factoring for micro, small and medium enterprises). SAMA framed the approvals as part of its efforts to develop the Saudi fintech sector and promote financial inclusion and innovation.