The rapid expansion of Qatar's energy sector has given a huge boost to the country's economy - and the financial sector has been making the most of the opportunities presented by this activity. Writer Stephen Timewell
Middle East
Latest articles from Middle East
Positive signs are emerging from Dubai
May 28, 2010In addition to the global financial crisis, the Dubai World debt quandary has provided another test for the emirate's banks. Nevertheless, positive signs are emerging. Writer Daniel Maalo
Ready to roar
May 5, 2010Despite its relatively low level of activity, the potential of Beirut Stock Exchange is causing both local and foreign investors to take notice. Writer Daniel Maalo
Lebanon presses forward with privatisations
May 5, 2010Lebanon's minister of finance, Raya Haffar Al Hassanm, only took office last November but is already making inroads on attracting private investors to the region and tackling structural economic deficiencies. Writer Daniel Maalo
Lebanon's banks keep crisis at bay
May 5, 2010Lebanon's banking sector continues to confound the pessimism that has plagued global finance since the onset of the crisis. However, the threat of political instability lingers, as does the possibility of an overdue round of consolidation. Writer Daniel Maalo
On the right path
May 5, 2010Concerns may remain but following long periods of instability, but Lebanon's economic resurgence shows few signs of abating. Writer Daniel Maalo
Brave new world
March 31, 2010Despite suffering a few shocks in 2009, Saudi Arabia's banking sector remains healthy and stable. As the sector faces up to the new realities and the need for change, an era of more modest, sustainable banking is emerging. Writer Stephen Timewell
How the Banks shaped up in 2009
March 31, 2010There were mixed fortunes for Saudi Arabia's 12 banks, with 2008's most profitable brands retaining their positions with modest growth, impressive gains for NCB, some disappointing declines, while just one institution posted a loss.
Palestinian banks count on deposits
March 31, 2010Despite achieving strong results last year, Palestine's banking sector is working to address its weaknesses. With ample customer deposits, the focus is now on developing the processes used to grant loans to broaden out profit-making opportunities. Witer Stephen Timewell
Battling the odds
March 3, 2010Bahrain has had to deal with its fair share of problems on the back of the global economic downturn, but a sound regulatory and supervisory structure and deft handling of the crisis by the central bank has ensured it will emerge as a stronger, more confident nation as a result. Writer Charlie Corbett