Asset growth is likely to accelerate in 2019-20 for GCC Islamic banks after a difficult 2018.
Middle East
Latest articles from Middle East

Deals of the Year 2019 - Middle East
May 1, 2019A celebration of the top deals in the Middle East over the past year.

Saudi Arabia's CMA chief looks to keep on pressing for change
May 1, 2019The chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Capital Markets Authority talks to The Banker.

Saudi Arabia celebrates MSCI index inclusion
May 1, 2019The acceptance of Saudi Arabia's stock exchange into the MSCI Emerging Markets Index marks the progress of its capital markets.

Saudi banks prosper as country transitions away from oil
May 1, 2019Saudi Arabia's banks are getting prepared for the transition to a less oil-dependent economy.

Market keeps faith with Saudi commitment to reform
May 1, 2019As Saudi Arabia moves towards its Vision 2030 goals, the business community remains optimistic that reform is inevitable, if slower than hoped.

Kuwait central banker finds fine balance between prudence and innovation
April 1, 2019Kuwait's central bank governor talks about preserving the attractiveness of the national currency and harnessing the power of technology while mitigating its risks.

Kuwait invests in oil and gas while toeing OPEC line
April 1, 2019As an OPEC member, Kuwait has agreed on oil production caps and accepted the new normal of low oil prices. The Banker assesses what this means for the country’s ambitions.

Kuwait builds on its regional ambitions
April 1, 2019Kuwait is oil-rich, has an enviable geopolitical location and a well-developed financial sector. James King assesses its ambitions to become a serious regional player in the Middle East.

Banking sector bring clarity to Kuwait's vision
April 1, 2019Kuwait's 2035 Vision is based around the country becoming a regional finance heavyweight. Now its banks are moving apace to make that a reality, with healthy bottom lines and innovative approaches to lending, retail and fintech. James King reports.