Qatar - The Banker

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

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A swift government response to the international meltdown coupled with an economy based around strong fundamentals mean that Qatar's banking system is emerging from the financial crisis in better shape than most. Writer Stephen Timewell

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For Qatar to compete with London and New York as a financial centre, it needs to be supported by a local talent pool. Qatar Financial Centre chief executive Stuart Pearce highlights two initiatives that will help the country in this regard. Writer Brian Caplen

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The Gulf Co-operation Council countries - Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar - have suffered as a result of the global economic downturn. Bank profits are down and there have even been some bank failures. But there is also plenty to be upbeat about, with some regions bucking the downward trend. Writer Michael Imeson

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One of the few economies to prosper in the past two years, Qatar's route to success - on the back of liquefied natural gas exports - started with an expensive, long-term investment in the mid-1990s that is now coming to fruition. Writer Stephen Timewell

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Leading Qatari banks have recorded strong results over the past two quarters and figureheads within the sector are quietly confident that profitability will be maintained, or indeed increased, in the year ahead. Writer Stephen Timewell

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In an increasingly competitive Gulf environment, the need for credible but user-friendly regulation is paramount. Writer Paul Melly.

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As Qatar continues its attempt to become a regional financial hub, the emirate’s largest banks are enjoying a growth spurt and new players are bullish, writes John Hamilton.

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