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

The protests over tax reforms that have hit Jordan in recent months and brought about the resignation of its prime minister set alarm bells ringing in the West as well as the wider Middle East. Adrienne Klasa examines how one of the region's most stable countries can now move forward.

Banks across the Arab world continue to perform well despite the turbulent political environment, according to The Banker’s Top 100 Arab banks ranking. 

Jordan has endured a demanding few years in light of the challenging political and security environment in the Middle East. However, a series of policies introduced by the Central Bank of Jordan and the country's government are already making headway in tackling these challenges.

Political instability in the Middle East has taken a toll on Jordan’s economy, but those on the inside maintain that the country remains politically and economically stable, and open for business. 

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's managing director for the southern and eastern Mediterranean region, Hildegard Gacek, explains how expertise and past experience are now enabling the EBRD to assist Egypt, Morocco, Jordan and Tunisia through a period of great economic and political change.

Sabih Al-Masri, the new chairman of Arab Bank, talks about his plans for the lender, the benefits of cross-border activity and his vision to help the Arab world grow.

Ongoing regional instability has taken its toll on Jordan’s banks, which are feeling the impact of a sharp slowdown in the real estate and construction sectors. But with the central bank receiving praise for its response to the crisis, what are the country’s prospects for recovery?