Latest articles from Middle East

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Qatar's shining example

May 28, 2010

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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Positive signs are emerging from Dubai

May 28, 2010

In addition to the global financial crisis, the Dubai World debt quandary has provided another test for the emirate's banks. Nevertheless, positive signs are emerging. Writer Daniel Maalo

Ready to roar

May 5, 2010

Despite its relatively low level of activity, the potential of Beirut Stock Exchange is causing both local and foreign investors to take notice. Writer Daniel Maalo

Lebanon presses forward with privatisations

May 5, 2010

Lebanon's minister of finance, Raya Haffar Al Hassanm, only took office last November but is already making inroads on attracting private investors to the region and tackling structural economic deficiencies. Writer Daniel Maalo

Lebanon's banks keep crisis at bay

May 5, 2010

Lebanon's banking sector continues to confound the pessimism that has plagued global finance since the onset of the crisis. However, the threat of political instability lingers, as does the possibility of an overdue round of consolidation. Writer Daniel Maalo

On the right path

May 5, 2010

Concerns may remain but following long periods of instability, but Lebanon's economic resurgence shows few signs of abating. Writer Daniel Maalo

Brave new world

March 31, 2010

Despite suffering a few shocks in 2009, Saudi Arabia's banking sector remains healthy and stable. As the sector faces up to the new realities and the need for change, an era of more modest, sustainable banking is emerging. Writer Stephen Timewell

How the Banks shaped up in 2009

March 31, 2010

There were mixed fortunes for Saudi Arabia's 12 banks, with 2008's most profitable brands retaining their positions with modest growth, impressive gains for NCB, some disappointing declines, while just one institution posted a loss.

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Palestinian banks count on deposits

March 31, 2010

Despite achieving strong results last year, Palestine's banking sector is working to address its weaknesses. With ample customer deposits, the focus is now on developing the processes used to grant loans to broaden out profit-making opportunities. Witer Stephen Timewell

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Battling the odds

March 3, 2010

Bahrain has had to deal with its fair share of problems on the back of the global economic downturn, but a sound regulatory and supervisory structure and deft handling of the crisis by the central bank has ensured it will emerge as a stronger, more confident nation as a result. Writer Charlie Corbett