The American University in Dubai (AUD) has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with DirectFN™, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Technology Group (NTG) – one of the largest ICT companies in the Middle East. DirectFN™ specializes in providing solutions ranging from desktop information workstations, data feeds, transaction systems and order management systems through to total end to end solutions. The agreement was signed between Dr. David Van Over, Dean of the School of Business Administration at AUD and Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas, Head of Global Business Development, DirectFNTM to share knowledge and expertise and for their respective students, faculty members and employees. On signing the agreement with DirectFN™, Dean of the School of business Administration and Professor of Management at AUD Dr. David Van Overcomments: “This MoU creates opportunities for AUD Business students to learn using the most accurate and current market information available. It will definitely create a competitive advantage for our students in the job market. We at AUD are very excited about a long term relationship with DirectFNTM.” This agreement will allow AUD students to receive in class market data (UAE stock market and New York markets), which will enable them to understand and train in the analysis and decision making processes; provide AUD students and faculty members new means to help in their research and business studies; allow faculty to participate in short modules of training in financial markets; and provide internship opportunities to AUD students. Emmanouil Revmatas, Head of Global Business Development, DirectFNTM said: “We are extremely pleased to be signing this MoU with the American University in Dubai, in particular the School of Business Administration. Access to market information is an extremely powerful tool and technology has undoubtedly become a key enabler for business. This initiative will allow us to share our knowledge and participate in the education of the business leaders of the future”. David Hann, Head of Sales, DirectFNTM said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for us to work with the faculty of AUD and to contribute to their programs and the learning experience of the students. We look forward to providing an insight into how market data acts as a trigger in the decision making process of financial practitioners.” DirectFN™ will also be conducting a training session each academic year for students to create awareness about financial market technology, along with another session per semester for finance students on financial modeling in the real world. AUD‘s expertise will be solicited to develop knowledge among DirectFNTM‘s staff; and there are plans to organize joint events, seminars, and workshops for the benefit of the UAE financial community.