Key corporate moves in energy, banking and Saudi trade

The Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM) has signed an export credit insurance policy with Advanced Petrochemical Co. valued at more than SAR 800 million. The state-backed policy is designed to cover non-payment risk from international buyers of petrochemical products, according to Saudi Press Agency reporting.

By insuring trade receivables, the agreement is intended to enhance the sustainability of Advanced Petrochemical’s export activities and underpin its expansion in global markets. Saudi EXIM framed the deal as part of wider efforts to provide insurance and financing tools that enable non-oil exports and strengthen confidence in the kingdom’s export operations.

The bank said these measures are aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the country’s economy away from hydrocarbons. The policy adds to a growing toolkit of state-backed support for Saudi industrial exporters seeking to deepen their international footprint.

Ghida Alsultan For Fast Food Co. has clarified key terms of its agreement to acquire 100% of Simple Burger Establishment for Meal Services. In a Tadawul filing dated Feb. 12, the company confirmed it will buy the business from owner Yousef Aref Al‑Mesbahi, who has committed to fully cooperate in operations and provide support for three years post-closing to help achieve targeted sales.

The SAR 23.8 million transaction, signed on Feb. 9, covers the transfer of assets, trade name, rights and obligations from the seller to Ghida Alsultan. The consideration will be paid in three installments under a phased mechanism linked to Simple Burger’s financial performance after closing.

A portion of the price is contingent on meeting agreed sales and profitability thresholds, including a minimum net profit-to-sales ratio in a specified fiscal year and a minimum annual net profit. Al‑Mesbahi has acknowledged full disclosure of all financial and legal obligations and accepted liability for any undisclosed obligations or disputes arising from the pre-sale period.

Tokyo-based fintech Habitto has announced a revision to interest rates on its Habitto Savings Account, effective Feb. 1, 2026. Balances up to JPY 1,000,000 will earn 0.6% per annum before tax (0.478% after tax), while amounts above that threshold will earn 0.3% (0.239% after tax).

The new rates apply automatically to existing customers from the effective date and to new accounts upon activation. Co‑founder and Chief Creative Officer Liam McCance said the rate hike is intended to make it easier for customers to grow everyday funds while working toward long-term goals.

Habitto describes itself as Japan’s first “Savings Shop”, combining savings accounts, simple cash management and free access to licensed financial planners. The company positions its tiered-rate structure and mobile app as tools to support clearer money habits, with additional services including a debit card offering 0.8% cash back.

Eastern Bank has provided financing to support BostonbeaN Coffee Company’s conversion to a 100% employee-owned business. The package includes a term loan to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and a revolving line of credit for ongoing working capital.

BostonbeaN, founded more than 60 years ago, supplies coffee, tea, snacks and other breakroom products to workplaces across its region. Owner Peter Johnson said the shift to employee ownership is intended to recognize staff contributions and support the firm’s culture and long-term success.

Eastern Bank’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Banking Officer, Greg Buscone, said the ESOP financing reflects the bank’s commitment to backing companies that reward employees who drive performance. The lender noted that it offers a range of commercial solutions, including ESOP-related financing, across its footprint in eastern Massachusetts, southern and coastal New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.