The governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait discusses the impact political instability is having on the country and the effect he hopes the new Financial Stability Law will have. Writer Stephen Timewell
Latest articles from Stephen Timewell
Political wrangling hampers Kuwait
June 4, 2009Tension between Kuwait's ruling government and elected parliament are hampering policy formation and intensifying uncertainty as the economy gets back on its feet. Will the new parliament elected last month change the situation? Writer Stephen Timewell
Cautious optimism
June 4, 2009Leading Qatari banks have recorded strong results over the past two quarters and figureheads within the sector are quietly confident that profitability will be maintained, or indeed increased, in the year ahead. Writer Stephen Timewell
Qatar's plan comes together
June 4, 2009One of the few economies to prosper in the past two years, Qatar's route to success - on the back of liquefied natural gas exports - started with an expensive, long-term investment in the mid-1990s that is now coming to fruition. Writer Stephen Timewell
We've seen it all before...
June 4, 2009Its longevity is as unique as its global appeal and from its very first issue to this, its 1000th, The Banker has remained true to the vision set out by its founder, Brendan Bracken. The international outlook and forward thinking that has made The Banker such a success over the past 83 years is a course that will be steadfastly continued. Writer Stephen Timewell
A cautionary tale
May 5, 2009Saudi Arabia's conservative economic and political strategy has protected the country from the brunt of the credit crisis, and as King Abdullah ushers in a period of reform, increased government spending is set to diversify its economy. Writer Stephen Timewell
Cushioned from the crisis
May 5, 2009Conservatism and pro-active regulation has protected Saudi Arabian banks from toxic assets and they are now in a position to fund many of the infrastructure projects which may help keep the Kingdom afloat during the slowdown. Writer Stephen Timewell
History of a survivor, Ibrahim Dabdoub, group CEO of National Bank of Kuwait
January 5, 2009Winner of The Banker’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Ibrahim Dabdoub has steered National Bank of Kuwait successfully through many crises, maintaining a balanced operating style and stressing the importance of trust and relationships. Writer Stephen Timewell.
Utilising trade to rebuild a nation
December 1, 2008Trade Bank of Iraq is keen to open up to investment in the war-torn country and expand correspondent banking relationships. Writer Stephen Timewell.
Nigeria Gains on South Africa Rankings
December 1, 2008Nigerian banks are continuing to make headway, but for the time being South Africa remains dominant. Writer Stephen Timewell.