Egypt's tumultuous political landscape of the past 18 months has, predictably, had an impact on it banks. However, the sector has shown impressive resilience since the Arab Spring uprisings, focusing on SME lending and commercial activities with some degree of success. But with foreign investors staying away and further political upheaval still a possibility, the country's rebuilding process still has some way to go.
Africa
Latest articles from Egypt

Egypt's Commercial International Bank resilient in the aftermath of revolution
August 1, 2011Egypt’s banks faced the most trying of conditions early this year with the overthrow of president Hosni Mubarak and the subsequent economic collapse. But Hisham Ezz Al-Arab, head of the Commercial International Bank says that businesses should thrive in a more open political system.

Egypt's new prime minister faces up to the task ahead
June 30, 2011Egypt continues to be blighted by internal turmoil, but new prime minister Essam Sharaf says the future is bright, in spite of the challenges.
Egyptian stock market shows strong growth
May 5, 2010With the Egyptian stock exchange on a high, the EGX chairman, Maged Shakey, explains what is behind its new-found energy. Writer Daniel Maalo
Why Egypt is good to grow
May 5, 2010Egypt's strong performance throughout the financial crisis is testament to the strong framework put in place by finance minister Youssef Boutros-Ghali, which has left the country in a good position to move forward in the post-crisis world. Writer Daniel Maalo
Era of optimism prevails in Egypt
May 5, 2010Several years after a significant overhaul, Egypt's banking sector continues to show its promise in spite of the global financial crisis. Writer Daniel Maalo
Ahmed El houssieny
March 10, 2009The managing director of Cairo based Citadel Capital talks to The Banker about opportunities in the region and the impact of the economic crisis on Egypt’s financial sector. Writer Charlie Corbett.
Egypt faces the acid test
March 10, 2009Extensive reform means Egypt’s banks are better placed to face global economic turmoil than ever before, but the fragile, export-driven economy will be hit hard and the bank sector is not immune to the consequences. Writer Charlie Corbett in Cairo.
Unfinished reforms test Egypt’s advance
November 3, 2008The 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.
World slowdown stems Egypt’s upward trend
August 4, 2008The successful transformation of Egypt’s banking sector has hit trouble. Charlie Corbett reports on how global financial turmoil and soaring inflation have hit the banks’ consolidation efforts.