The director of Italy’s Institute of International Affairs, Nathalie Tocci, talks to Silvia Pavoni about Middle Eastern issues amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran.

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.

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. 

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

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

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

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

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