Global Financial Intelligence Since 1926
Beyond banking: the recently renovated Museum of Islamic Art
Ali Shareef Al-Emadi, Group CEO of Qatar National Bank
Standing strong: Kuwait's financial system is bearing the brunt of the credit crunch well, although political tensions are clouding the country's future prospects
Sheikh Salem Abdulaziz Al-Sabah, governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait
Kuwaiti banks are generally performing well, but their long-term prospects are largely dependent on the May elections bringing political stability to the country. Writer Stephen Timewell
Saudi Arabia's conservative economic and political strategy has protected the country from the brunt of the credit crisis, and as King Abdullah ushers in a period of reform, increased government spending is set to diversify its economy. Writer Stephen Timewell
The global financial crisis has limited the finances available for major projects in the Middle East. But this could be an opportunity for Islamic financiers to come up with sharia-compliant finance to make up for the shortfall of Western funds. Writer James Gavin
Islamic banks’ ability to withstand the global downturn has fuelled an expansion of Islamic finance around the world. But most institutions are taking a measured approach to growth. Writer Joseph DiVanna.
As turmoil in the banking industry intensifies, the appeal of Islamic finance and its risk-sharing approach is growing. Yet to bring Islamic structures into the mainstream, a workable infrastructure must be established. The Banker brought together a panel of industry experts to discuss the key considerations.
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.
So-called ‘frontier markets’ hold no fears for some investors. Edward Russell-Walling reports on how broker-cum-investment bank Exotix went digging for profits in the zinc mines of Yemen.
Hussein Al-Uzri
Trade Bank of Iraq is keen to open up to investment in the war-torn country and expand correspondent banking relationships. Writer Stephen Timewell.
Despite the volatility of the oil markets, it looks likely that Arab banks’ conservative strategies will insulate them from the worst effects of the global downturn. Writer Stephen Timewell.
The Central Bank of Egypt’s reform programme has made significant improvements to the sector but a turbulent economic environment is creating challenges. Writer Nadine Marroushi.
Saudi Arabia’s strong fundamentals mean that bank exposure to the credit crisis has been limited, and the mood among bankers is bullish. Writer Nadine Marroushi.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the United Arab Emirates vice-president and prime minister
Dubai’s healthy economy embodies a radically different financial model that Europe and the US might do well to learn from. Even its lucrative oil interests are being left behind. Writer Stephen Timewell.
Healthy oil revenues mean the Gulf Co-operation Council countries are enjoying an ongoing boom and even concerns over inflation cannot shake the optimism surrounding the region. Writer Stephen Timewell.
The UAE’s banks’ profits based on lending are huge but with customer deposit levels lagging and international borrowing increasingly difficult, many are looking towards expansion opportunities abroad. Writer Mark Ford.
Often overlooked by investors attracted to flashier plays, Oman has excellent prospects for those willing to make the effort. Writer Jon Marks.
Philip Thorpe
In an increasingly competitive Gulf environment, the need for credible but user-friendly regulation is paramount. Writer Paul Melly.
Encouraged by the IMF, Gulf investors are preparing guidelines that should foster greater openness about their thinking. But the culture of discretion remains strong. Writer Paul Melly.
