Latest articles from Middle East

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Robert Mogielnicki: the grim outlook for Iran’s economy

January 2, 2020

Stagflation and high unemployment have led Iran to raise fuel prices – resulting in violent protests. But while US sanctions are not helping, Iran must tackle serious economic reforms, says the resident scholar of the Arab Gulf States Institute.

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Gulf states gear up to establish fintech ecosystems

January 2, 2020

The Arabian Gulf is lagging other regions when it comes to embracing fintech but now its countries are formulating strategies to launch hubs of their own. 

Israel’s banks hold steady despite political upheaval

December 3, 2019

While there may be high drama in Israel’s politics, recent years have seen a steady performance from its banks. 

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Al Rajhi CEO looks to continue diversification drive

November 1, 2019

Al Rajhi CEO Stefano Bertamini talks about growth areas at the bank, including high take-up of its mobile app.

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Lebanon central banker looks to defy political and economic pressure

October 1, 2019

Lebanon's veteran central banker Riad Salame talks to The Banker about interest rates, bank compliance and consolidation in the country's financial sector. 

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Kirill Dmitriev: Russia and Saudi Arabia's mutually beneficial relationship

October 1, 2019

Russia and Saudi Arabia have deepened ties stemming from a 2016 agreement on oil, to include partnerships by their respective sovereign wealth funds. 

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Arab Bank chief looks to diversification and digitalisation

September 2, 2019

Jordan-headquartered Arab Bank is optimistic it can build on its profitability and growth record, despite regional pressures. Chief executive Nemeh Sabbagh talks to John Everington about the bank’s outlook and challenges

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Qatar's banks rise above the blockade

June 3, 2019

Qatar's economy has continued to perform well during an economic blockade, and its banks have followed suit.

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Optimism abounds as Qatar enjoys splendid isolation

June 3, 2019

Economically blockaded by many of its neighbours, Qatar has continued to enjoy stable economic growth thanks to a series of reforms and a renewed spirit of self-reliance. 

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Qatar’s central bank governor hails a resilient economy

June 3, 2019

The governor of Qatar’s central bank talks to The Banker about how two years of economic blockade has affected the country’s economy.