The National Bank of Bahrain's chief executive Jean-Christophe Durand discusses key recent developments for the country and its banking sector.
Middle East
Latest articles from Bahrain

Gulf consolidation slows as economic pressures ease
March 1, 2022Middle Eastern fintechs and neobanks are attracting investment from overseas, as the wave of mega-mergers among the region’s largest lenders grinds to a halt.

Bahrain plans fresh economic restructuring as Covid impact dissipates
February 22, 2022Higher oil prices and a successful vaccination programme have eased pressure on Bahrain's economy. However, as Kit Gillet reports, questions remain about whether the country can meet its deficit reduction targets.

Bahrain's banks rebuild after Covid contraction
February 22, 2022After being hit hard in the early days of the pandemic, Bahraini lenders are cautiously optimistic about growth prospects for 2022.

Fintech growth and innovation in Bahrain
November 12, 2021Fostering an innovative and competitive financial services sector requires a forward-thinking central bank to establish a strong regulatory framework.
Pandemic hits pre-tax profits at Bahrain’s banks
October 29, 2021Two of the four largest lenders in the Gulf country posted a loss last year.

Buna seeks to resolve cross-border payment issues
April 19, 2021Mehdi Manaa, CEO of Buna, a multi-currency payment platform for the Arab region, on revolutionising cross-border payments.

Bahrain freezes bank repayments as GDP shrinks
March 1, 2021Government acts as lower oil prices and the pandemic result in a rating downgrade.

Bahrain advances with caution
February 17, 2020Though flat oil prices are having an effect on Bahrain’s economy, the country’s banking sector continues to perform well, in spite of calls for consolidation.

Will Fiscal Balance Program bring budgetary harmony back to Bahrain?
March 1, 2019A slump in oil prices and a large budgetary deficit have left Bahrain's economy experiencing sluggish growth. However, a $10bn support package and a drive to reduce public debt give hope for a brighter future.