Consolidation is hitting banks operating within the GCC, creating regional 'mega-banks'. However, the appetite for M&A in the rest of the Middle East remains stilted.
Latest articles from James King
Access-Diamond market-driven merger brings boost to Nigeria
March 1, 2019The merger of Access Bank and Diamond Bank in Nigeria represents a landmark for a number of reasons, not least because the deal was market driven and not forced through by the central bank.
Sub-Saharan African markets eye the benefits of consolidation
March 1, 2019The heightened M&A activity in sub-Saharan Africa is garnering enthusiasm over the potential creation of a leaner, fitter and more adaptable banking sector across the region.
The Banker's Top Islamic GCC Banks ranking 2019: Al Rajhi heads a healthy table
March 1, 2019In The Banker's first Top Islamic GCC Banks ranking, a healthy picture emerges, with asset growth and profitability impressive by any standards. James King assesses what the industry is getting right.
UAE banks feel the benefit of experience
February 1, 2019From their enviably stable position, the UAE’s banks are in a strong position to face anything 2019 can throw at them, even the market turbulence caused by impending mergers and rising interest rates. James King reports.
UAE faces headwinds undaunted thanks to reform agenda
February 1, 2019The UAE’s reform timetable is providing the country with some breathing space in addressing problems with a declining real estate market and stagnant job creation rates. James King reports.
Will reform agenda put Gulf region back on the map?
January 2, 2019With Gulf states now less dominant in the energy markets, they have been forced to restructure their economies away from oil dependence and public sector largesse. However, many countries in the region seem to be dragging their heels on their reforms, as James King reports.
The Banker's Top Islamic Financial Institutions – 2018
November 1, 2018Islamic banks are doing well, especially in frontier states, with GCC dominance being challenged by previously underserved regions such as Africa and Asia.
A blockchain boost for Islamic finance
November 1, 2018A number of Islamic financial institutions are embracing blockchain, viewing it as a sharia-compliant tool that can ease the administrative burdens of sharia certification.
Top 100 Arab Banks: FAB dominates in a transitional year
October 1, 2018First Abu Dhabi Bank, formed by the merger between the National Bank of Abu Dhabi and First Gulf Bank, has made history as the first Emirati bank to top The Banker’s Top 100 Arab Banks ranking. Elsewhere, Morocco and Lebanon continue to impress. James King reports.