Amidst growing economic challenges, consumer finance has become a vital financial solution, enabling individuals to meet their needs without bearing a significant financial burden upfront.
With the rising cost of living and increasing demand for innovative financing options, the consumer finance sector has played a crucial role in expanding access to various products and services.
As Egypt’s financial landscape continues to evolve, Said Zater stands out as a visionary leader who has driven the sector’s growth and transformation, laying a solid foundation for long-term sustainability while reinforcing its role in supporting the Egyptian economy.
A Strategic Leader Driving Unprecedented Growth
As CEO of Contact Financial Holding and the first Chairman of the Egyptian Federation of Consumer Finance, which was founded in May 2021, Zater has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the consumer finance industry.
He has actively worked to eliminate obstacles facing non-banking financial service providers and helped establish the Federation as a bridge between these companies and the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA). This collaboration has been instrumental in developing regulatory frameworks that enhance sector stability, promote fair competition, and safeguard consumer rights.
Under Zater’s leadership, the consumer finance market has grown exponentially, with total financing soaring from EGP 17 billion in 2021 to EGP 55 billion by November 2024, reflecting an impressive 224% growth rate.
Simultaneously, the number of beneficiaries surged from 1.346 million clients in 2021 to 3.759 million in November 2024, marking a 179% increase. These milestones have strengthened industry regulations, consumer protection, and market transparency, fostering a stable and supportive business environment.
Raising Industry Awareness and Strengthening Market Regulations
Zater has been a driving force behind enhancing awareness and professional development in the consumer finance sector. In collaboration with FRA and the Federation’s board members, he has spearheaded industry discussions aimed at tackling market challenges and fostering business growth.
Additionally, he led the organization of 14 specialized training programs and workshops, covering essential topics such as risk management, fraud prevention, credit inquiries (iScore), anti-money laundering (AML), and corporate governance for non-banking financial institutions (NBFIs). These initiatives have significantly contributed to capacity building within the industry, ensuring best practices are upheld.
Empowering Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship
Recognizing entrepreneurship’s vital role in economic development, Zater has prioritized financial literacy and youth empowerment.
Under his leadership, the Federation actively participates in youth-oriented events and conferences, aiming to educate young individuals on financial planning, managing installment payments, and building financial discipline. These efforts help enhance their financial independence and contribute to a financially aware society.
Championing Digital Transformation and Financial Inclusion
Zater firmly believes that FinTech is the future of consumer finance. He has been at the forefront of driving digital transformation, integrating advanced digital solutions into financing services to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and provide seamless customer experiences.
Through digital lending platforms and automated processes, Zater has positioned the sector to meet evolving consumer demands while expanding financial inclusion and boosting local market activity.
A Transformative Impact on Contact Financial Holding
Zater’s strategic vision has also had a remarkable impact on Contact Financial Holding, where he serves as Group CEO. Under his leadership, Contact’s consumer finance division has achieved unprecedented growth, with
financing contracts surging from 29,149 in 2020 to 127,788 in 2024, marking an extraordinary 338% increase. This success highlights Contact’s commitment to innovation, customer-centric solutions, and market expansion.
A Vision for the Future of Consumer Finance in Egypt
Looking ahead, Zater remains optimistic about the future of consumer finance in Egypt. His initiatives have transformed the sector into a well-regulated, high-growth industry, setting the stage for sustained expansion in the coming years.
Through ongoing collaboration with FRA, continued digital advancements, and the introduction of cutting-edge financial products, the sector is set to become a cornerstone of Egypt’s economic growth, fostering financial inclusion and long-term prosperity.
