MEED
Melissa Hancock
Full contributor list at http://www.meed.com/melissa-hancock/41.contributor
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Market Reform - A larger role for capital markets
Issue 53 31 December 2010 - 6 January 2011
Along with market consolidation, the next decade will see some radical changes made to the Gulf’s exchanges in a bid to draw in more international investors and boost liquidity -
Arab Banking Corporation makes Libyan acquisition
16 December 2010, 10:43 GMT
Bahrain-based bank keen to strengthen presence in North Africa -
Iran plans bond to fund South Pars gas field development
Issue 51 17-23 December 2010
First batch of $3bn bonds sold ahead of schedule -
Iran's state-owned mobile operator to float 5 per cent stake
Issue 51 17-23 December 2010
Flotation to take place in week commencing 19 December -
Iran: Oil well parts
14 December 2010, 15:54 GMT
Oil well travelling block parts required -
Saudi Electricity Company signs $1.3bn loan with four local lenders
14 December 2010, 7:09 GMT
Loan has a tenor of 15 years -
New chairman appointed for Dubai World
13 December 2010, 13:56 GMT
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum named new Dubai World chairman -
Kuwait’s Global Investment House meets first-year debt repayment
12 December 2010, 14:36 GMT
Global makes $27m principal payment -
Dubai's DIFC slashes rents by up to 50 per cent in bid to boost business
12 December 2010, 14:11 GMT
New rents benchmarked against global financial centres -
Yearbook 2011: Capital Markets outlook - Gulf stock markets feel the strain
Supplement: MEED Yearbook 2011
Local stock exchanges struggle to gain investor support following the aftermath of the debt crisis -
Saudi Arabia: Catering services
8 December 2010, 13:56 GMT
Provision of catering services for educational authority -
Qtel mulls public offerings of Iraq and Tunisia units
8 December 2010, 13:11 GMT
Tunisian offering could happen in summer of 2011 -
Value of regional public offerings falls by 79 per cent
8 December 2010, 12:18 GMT
$177m of funds raised across Mena region in third quarter of 2010 -
UAE: GRP enclosures
8 December 2010, 11:34 GMT
Supply of GRP enclosures for an electricity & water authority -
Kuwait: Communication system
8 December 2010, 11:32 GMT
Communication system to be used by Ministry for its foreign missions -
Kuwait: Landscaping and irrigation
8 December 2010, 11:26 GMT
Provision of agricultural services at Bayan Palace and surrounding areas -
Iran: Submarine pipelines
8 December 2010, 11:14 GMT
Pipelines to be installed between Balal production platform and Lavan Island -
Wataniya Palestine offering attracted more than 11,000 investors
8 December 2010, 9:31 GMT
Funds raised for Palestine mobile operator floatation could hit $80m -
UAE mobile retailer Axiom Telecom cancels initial public offering
7 December 2010, 9:48 GMT
Retailer blames weak market conditions for listing cancellation -
World Cup will benefit all Qatari banks
7 December 2010, 5:38 GMT
Banks to benefit from new infrastructure projects and upgrading of transport systems -
Gulf lenders look further afield
Issue 50 10-16 December 2010
With loan growth in GCC countries likely to remain subdued over the next couple of years, the broader region is becoming an ever-more attractive proposition for investment -
Legislating to support the Gulf banking sector
Issue 50 10-16 December 2010
Gulf central banks moved swiftly to shield their banking systems from the impact of the global financial crisis. Now regulators are acting to improve transparency with the establishment of credit bureaus -
UAE hopes to rejoin planned Gulf single currency project
6 December 2010, 10:19 GMT
Single currency unlikely to be launched by its current 2015 deadline -
Wataniya Palestine offering 1.5 times oversubscribed
6 December 2010, 6:26 GMT
Wataniya is largest company to be listed on Palestine Exchange by paid-up capital -
Aluminium Bahrain investors in profit on first day of trading
5 December 2010, 9:00 GMT
Company shares closed at BD0.915 -
Gulf private equity overlooking emerging market opportunities
30 November 2010, 8:14 GMT
Africa and Southeast Asia offer huge potential says industry head -
Dubai Financial Market plans to diversify
Issue 49 3-9 December 2010
Exchange encouraging trading, logistics and tourism firms to list -
UAE markets regulator working to introduce new laws by 2012
Issue 49 3-9 December 2010
Delivery versus payment law given priority -
Wataniya Palestine offering attracts more than 5,000 retail investors
Issue 49 3-9 December 2010
Telecoms offering will be oversubscribed, says industry head -
UAE Minister of Economy predicts growth of up to 3.5 per cent in 2011
28 November 2010, 12:51 GMT
UAE gross domestic product will reach $272.3bn in 2010 -
Dubai Mercantile Exchange announces new swaps and options contracts
28 November 2010, 8:17 GMT
Contracts will address customers’ risk management needs -
Nasdaq Dubai's losses halve after July merger
Issue 48 26 November - 2 December 2010
Nasdaq should be able to make profit in 2011, says DFM head -
UAE finalising law to reduce minimum stake for company listings
Issue 48 26 November - 2 December 2010
Law expected to reduce stake to 20-30 per cent -
Axiom share sale to exclude retail investors
21 November 2010, 11:26 GMT
Initial public offering implies market capitalisation of between $760m and $1.093bn -
Private sector credit growth continues to struggle in Saudi Arabia
21 November 2010, 8:26 GMT
Private sector bank credit grew 2.6 per cent in September -
Cost of insuring Dubai debt hits two-month high
14 November 2010, 11:06 GMT
Credit default swaps rise as Dubai Group seeks to restructure debt -
Borse Dubai says it will repay $2.5bn in February 2011
11 November 2010, 13:39 GMT
The holding firm’s assets are worth $6bn -
Egypt government invests $12m in Abraaj's small business fund
11 November 2010, 9:58 GMT
Abraaj fund aimed at financing small businesses across region -
Aluminium Bahrain raises $338m in share sale
10 November 2010, 11:41 GMT
The Bahrain firm targeted $541m in IPO priced at the bottom of the range -
Kuwait: Programme devices and licenses
8 November 2010, 7:39 GMT
Kuwait University looking for supply and installation of IT programs -
Kuwait: Training devices for government centre
8 November 2010, 7:38 GMT
Pre-tender meeting to be held on 22 November -
Abraaj small business fund invests $28m in five companies
Issue 46 12-18 November 2010
Firm hopes to close five more deals before end of 2010 -
Pinebridge eyes Middle East assets for future growth
Issue 46 12-18 November 2010
Regional assets of the firm currently stands at $1.5bn -
Regulator caution hinders Riyadh bourse
Issue 46 12-18 November 2010
Regulator showing caution towards derivatives and short-selling -
White & Case forms new practice with Saudi law firm
7 November 2010, 8:19 GMT
New practice will enable US firm to deliver local law advice -
Dubai Investments to list 30 per cent stake of private equity arm
4 November 2010, 13:55 GMT
Listing planned for first half of 2011 -
US firm launches fund to invest in Iraq equities and infrastructure
3 November 2010, 9:25 GMT
Fund will invest up to 20 per cent of assets in early-stage projects -
Middle East’s buyout activity triples during October to $1,7bn
2 November 2010, 10:17 GMT
National Bank of Kuwait’s $1.3bn rights issue was the largest deal -
Tamweel resumes mortgage lending after two-year lull
2 November 2010, 10:17 GMT
Fresh lending follows rescue by Dubai Islamic Bank in late September -
Dubai hopes to launch secondary stock market by late 2011
Issue 45 5-11 November 2010
Market would provide small businesses with much-needed growth capital -
Gulf companies eye London listings
1 November 2010, 8:54 GMT
Interest coming from technology, business support and logistics companies -
A strong year for bonds
1 November 2010, 0:00 GMT
Transparency will aid future growth -
Wataniya Palestine to list on 7 November
31 October 2010, 10:39 GMT
Mobile operator hopes to raise $50m -
Nawras raises $473m out of targeted $608m in share sale
28 October 2010, 13:46 GMT
Forty per cent share offering prices at bottom of range -
National Bank of Kuwait’s rights issue five times oversubscribed
28 October 2010, 10:25 GMT
Rights issue plans to raise $1.3bn -
Regional private equity industry ripe for growth
27 October 2010, 14:19 GMT
Industry to benefit from family business restructurings -
Dubai World secures full approval for $24.9bn restructuring
27 October 2010, 12:17 GMT
Creditor approvals expected to speed up closure of restructuring deal -
Private equity recovery needed to stimulate small business listings
26 October 2010, 11:27 GMT
Before the economic crisis there was $7 billion of private equity funds looking for investment in the region -
Doha’s diplomatic role in the Middle East
Issue 44 29 October-5 November 2010
Maintaining good relations with Washington and Tehran, as well as placating Riyadh’s concerns about its diplomatic ambitions will be Qatar’s biggest test yet -
Focus shifts to insurance in Qatar
Issue 44 29 October-5 November 2010
After five successful years, Qatar Financial Centre is changing its strategy to focus on asset management and insurance. But a unified regulator will be key to future gains -
Middle East bond issuance to hit $30bn by end of 2010
Issue 44 29 October-5 November 2010
$26bn-worth of bonds issued to date, says HSBC executive -
Qatar bourse sets the pace for recovery
Issue 44 29 October-5 November 2010
The global economic crisis put an end to the rapid growth the Qatar Exchange was enjoying. But with new investment and a new leadership, it is expected to make a strong comeback -
Foreign investor appetite grows for GCC listed companies
25 October 2010, 14:00 GMT
Interest from Mena funds, emerging markets and hedge funds -
GCC market recovery held back by retail investors
25 October 2010, 12:12 GMT
Nasdaq Dubai chief says markets still suffering from low trade volumes -
Bahrain Financial Exchange launches Islamic trading platform
21 October 2010, 15:25 GMT
Islamic products will be accessible to both local and international investors -
UAE firms keen to acquire Irish banks' distressed assets
20 October 2010, 15:32 GMT
Property assets available at good valuations, says financial advisory firm -
Oman plans $260m bond to help finance new infrastructure
20 October 2010, 12:48 GMT
Government planning to spend $3.5bn over next five years -
Mumtalakat to reinvest proceeds of Alba sell-off internationally
Issue 43 22-28 October 2010
The company’s current international investments comprise 2 per cent of its portfolio -
Mumtalakat seeking to raise $540m in Alba listing
18 October 2010, 13:45 GMT
Listing will see the sale of up to 163 million shares -
Saudi Arabia's Al-Khodari listing fails to attract enough retail demand
18 October 2010, 9:41 GMT
Retail tranche secured only 83 per cent coverage -
UAE's Noor Islamic Bank denies merger talks
17 October 2010, 14:18 GMT
Bank says talks are ‘market rumours’ -
Qatar National Bank seeking majority stake in Indonesian lender
14 October 2010, 14:25 GMT
Acquisition is part of bank’s international growth plans -
Qatar National Bank to resume brokerage activities
Issue 42 15-21 October 2010
Banks resuming share trading after Qatar Financial Markets Authority reverses 2006 ban -
QInvest to list on Qatar Exchange in 2011
Issue 42 15-21 October 2010
Qatari investment bank plots capital markets debut -
Kuwait Energy plans listing in 2011
11 October 2010, 11:52 GMT
Company may list on both the Kuwait and London exchanges -
Mubadala planning $7bn Malaysian aluminium smelter
10 October 2010, 10:54 GMT
Abu Dhabi investment fund signs agreement with Malaysian state developer -
Dubai commodities exchange volumes surge 63 per cent
7 October 2010, 13:11 GMT
Currency futures drive trading -
Qtel’s bond issue 10 times oversubscribed
7 October 2010, 13:10 GMT
Bids for $1.5bn bond sale exceed $15bn -
Abu Dhabi's Invest AD launches Iraqi investment fund
5 October 2010, 6:25 GMT
Fund will capitalise on Iraq’s forecast 7 per cent economic growth -
Gulf banks benefit from sharia rules
Issue 41 8-14 October 2010
The Gulf’s Islamic banks have been tested by the global financial crisis, but most have fared better than their conventional peers. Challenges still need to be faced, but the future is looking positive -
Qatar targets growing insurance market with new regulations
Issue 41 8-14 October 2010
State will take on Bahrain and Dubai to establish new insurance hub -
UAE to tighten lending rules
Issue 41 8-14 October 2010
New multiple of earning regulations will limit the size of loans -
New regulations will protect Qatar's Islamic banks
30 September 2010, 13:09 GMT
Martket has been growing at 15-20 per cent a year -
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Khodari to sell shares at $12.80 each
29 September 2010, 14:17 GMT
Book-building process values company at $544m -
Qatari banks' Islamic lending activities curbed by new central bank regulations
29 September 2010, 8:37 GMT
Banks given 12 months to comply with new regulations -
Regional banks to focus on affluent customers for future growth
28 September 2010, 10:48 GMT
Market grew 8 per cent in 2009 -
Insufficient credit data preventing UAE banks from resumed lending
Issue 40 1-7 October 2010
Banks still relying on inadequate information -
National Bank of Abu Dhabi targets doubling retail revenues by 2015
Issue 40 1-7 October 2010
Bank to grow retail division through new products and branches -
UAE retail banks to impose stronger credit checks
27 September 2010, 14:17 GMT
Institutions plan to lend more responsibly -
Lack of credit bureau to blame for high rate of consumer loan delinquencies
27 September 2010, 13:08 GMT
Banks were unable to profile consumer creditworthiness -
Dubai Islamic Bank raises Tamweel stake to 57.33 per cent
27 September 2010, 11:27 GMT
Tamweel will be able to resume lending in weeks -
Fitch affirms Abu Dhabi's AA rating
26 September 2010, 12:08 GMT
Rating anchored by strong balance sheet -
Qatar Islamic Bank to launch first dollar-based Islamic bond
23 September 2010, 13:39 GMT
Investor roadshow begins on 24 September -
Aluminium Bahrain to float stake by end of 2010
23 September 2010, 11:28 GMT
Proceeds will be used by Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund -
Abu Dhabi's Mubadala sets up specialised investment unit
21 September 2010, 11:17 GMT
New unit will serve as primary vehicle for financial invesment -
National Commercial Bank advising on two Saudi listings
Issue No 39 24-30 September 2010
Listings planned for first quarter of 2011 -
Damas extends $816.7m debt standstill to 30 November
20 September 2010, 11:40 GMT
Second extension for company in two months -
UAE stocks surge on market status upgrade
19 September 2010, 14:35 GMT
Dubai Financial Market trading reaches highest level since 24 May -
Gulf borrowers face sharp rise in the cost of debt
19 September 2010, 14:06 GMT
Basel III regulations will lead to a increase in the cost of capital -
Emirates NBD in talks with Libyan central bank to establish subsidiary
Issue No 38 17-25 September 2010
Wholesale banking offers greatest potential for Dubai-based bank -
Iran's Dana Insurance stock value falls 30 per cent after listing
Issue No 38 17-25 September 2010
Stock was hugely overvalued say analysts -
Oman's Nawras to IPO 40 per cent of shares on 15 September
Issue No 38 17-25 September 2010
Nawras expects to raise up to $603m -
Dubai World gets approval for $24.9bn debt restructuring
12 September 2010, 13:16 GMT
Restructuring expected to be completed in coming weeks -
National Bank of Kuwait's rights issue to begin on 5 October
9 September 2010, 9:25 GMT
Issue aimed at supporting expansion plans -
Second delay for Dubai Holding’s $555m loan repayment
8 September 2010, 11:13 GMT
Repayment delayed until 30 November -
Three new listings planned for Palestine exchange by end of the year
7 September 2010, 13:58 GMT
Wataniya Palestine scheduled to be largest listing in 2010 -
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank arranges $1.1bn project finance deal for Emirates Steel
6 September 2010, 13:51 GMT
Facility is UAE’s largest project finance deal in 2010 -
Iran sells bonds for South Pars gas development ahead of schedule
Issue No 37 10-16 September 2010
Bonds will be used to finance development of gas fields -
Iran’s Turquoise Partners raises $2.8m for mutual fund
19 August 2010, 11:59 GMT
Turquoise started investing fund on 17 August -
Bahrain's Investcorp to delist from London stock exchange
19 August 2010, 11:05 GMT
Firm will offer investors $4.76 per share -
Majority of companies on Palestine bourse report 2010 profits
18 August 2010, 10:32 GMT
32 out of 40 companies achieved profits in half-year results -
Iran's Dana Insurance initial public offering raises $14m
18 August 2010, 10:09 GMT
Investors buy 5 per cent stake in nine minutes -
Iran: Oil Drilling
18 August 2010, 8:17 GMT
Supply of rotary tong parts -
Iran: Esfahan Steel
18 August 2010, 8:16 GMT
Supply of raw materials -
Egyptian corporate bond issuance sees sharp revival
17 August 2010, 13:14 GMT
Companies favour bonds as bank credit remains tight -
Tripoli's banking sector reluctant to embrace foreign institutions
17 August 2010, 12:59 GMT
Libyan banks in urgent need of modernisation -
Egypt: Lighting equipment
17 August 2010, 7:58 GMT
Two fog spreading instruments and public lighting equipment -
Aabar Investments to convert to private joint-stock company
17 August 2010, 7:52 GMT
Subsequent delisting due for 1 September -
Egypt: Children's heart hospital
16 August 2010, 14:41 GMT
Request for proposals for operation of hospital -
Iran to launch first initial public offering on 17 August
16 August 2010, 13:31 GMT
Dana Insurance will offer a 5 per cent stake -
Iraq: Legal media training
16 August 2010, 7:36 GMT
Training to improve the quality of legal reporting -
Global Investment House posts loss of $119m
15 August 2010, 12:32 GMT
Bank attributes loss to regional market turbulence -
Kuwait expected to appoint head of first market regulator during Ramadan
12 August 2010, 13:14 GMT
Regulator will have power to impose prison sentences and fines -
Saudi Arabia approves five year development plan
12 August 2010, 11:58 GMT
Education and training will receive largest share of new allocations -
Gulf Finance House signs new Islamic financing deal
11 August 2010, 7:24 GMT
Agreement valid for two years -
Aldar Properties downgraded by Moody's
10 August 2010, 11:45 GMT
Downgrade reflects weak financials and local property market -
Negative outlook for DIFC Investments as it starts $1bn asset sale
10 August 2010, 9:42 GMT
Standard & Poor’s says company’s plan faces “execution risk” -
Abu Dhabi National Energy Company's profit jumps 160 per cent
9 August 2010, 14:18 GMT
Profit driven by increases in capacity and commodity pricing -
UAE’s Abraaj Capital fund receives $150m from US agency
8 August 2010, 13:42 GMT
Fund will provide capital to small businesses -
Moody’s upgrades outlook on Kuwait to stable
8 August 2010, 13:30 GMT
Upgrade based on passing of key economic legislation -
Tehran exchange suffers another IPO setback
5 August 2010, 11:25 GMT
Dana Insurance’s July listing postponed -
Gulf International Bank's UK subsidiary launches $100m fund
5 August 2010, 9:35 GMT
Fund will focus on opportunities in emerging markets -
Shuaa Partners completes Rotana stake sale
4 August 2010, 10:57 GMT
Private equity fund generated 36 per cent rate of return -
Political uncertainty delays foreign banks push into Iraq
4 August 2010, 10:56 GMT
Several international banks withdraw licence applications -
Turquoise Partners lists $5m mutual fund in Tehran
1 August 2010, 14:41 GMT
Fund raised $500,000 to date -
Middle East’s buyout activity falls to 12 month low in July
1 August 2010, 13:54 GMT
Activity represents an 88 per cent monthly decline -
Abu Dhabi developer posts first half loss of AED789.5m
29 July 2010, 15:41 GMT
Aldar Properties’ losses due to lower property sales and valuations -
Palestinian listed firms pay out $120.8m in 2010
28 July 2010, 15:31 GMT
Palestine Telecommunications records largest dividend distribution of $60m -
Bahrain bourse signs deal to sell global investment products
28 July 2010, 14:21 GMT
New Bahraini exchange to launch range of investment products in October -
Maintaining the Iran market rally
28 July 2010, 0:00 GMT
Tehran needs the outside world if its stock exchange is to sustain its stellar performance -
Retail banking: Focus shifts from growth to retention
Issue No 31 30-5 August 2010
Banks in the UAE are reviewing business models amid a slowdown in lending, placing greater emphasis on tailoring retail products to match customers’ needs -
Dubai Financial Market profits fall 57 per cent this year
26 July 2010, 14:14 GMT
Trading value falls 32 per cent in second quarter -
Emirates NBD profit falls
26 July 2010, 14:12 GMT
First half profits for 2010 down 28 per cent to AED1.5bn -
Regulatory reform in Oman set to boost exchange
Issue No 30 23-29 July 2010
The Muscat market regulator is using the downturn to amend key trading laws and finalise approval of new products to attract foreign investors and boost liquidity -
Saudi's Binladin raises $187m in Islamic bond issue
19 July 2010, 9:32 GMT
Construction firm secured offers of more than twice the amount it was trying to raise -
Saudi's Al-Jouf Cement to raise $174m from listing
18 July 2010, 14:49 GMT
Cement company to sell off 50 per cent stake on stock market -
Dubai's commodities exchange records one million trades
18 July 2010, 12:02 GMT
Trading volumes up 48 per cent on 2009 -
Strong recovery for IPO market in 2010
15 July 2010, 13:46 GMT
Value of funds almost doubled year-on-year -
Saudi’s Al-Khodari appoints financial adviser for its October listing
14 July 2010, 10:38 GMT
Al-Khodari to float 30 per cent stake -
Bahrain's Ithmaar Bank appoints new chief executive
13 July 2010, 13:46 GMT
New chief executive tasked with final conversion into retail bank -
HSBC looks for Libyan refinery partner
Issue No 29 16-22 July 2010
Refinery expected to cost in excess of $5bn -
Egypt appoints new stock exchange chairman
12 July 2010, 11:43 GMT
Khaled Seyam to begin new role on 15 July -
Saudi Arabia's National Commercial Bank records $704m profit
12 July 2010, 11:42 GMT
First half profit rises 18 per cent -
Abu Dhabi plans to list real estate funds by end of 2010
11 July 2010, 12:17 GMT
Funds expected to boost overall property market -
Nasdaq Dubai equities start trading on Dubai Financial Market
11 July 2010, 12:16 GMT
Nasdaq Dubai gains access to 548,000 retail investors -
Bahrain’s BMI bank appoints new group chief executive
8 July 2010, 12:52 GMT
Jamal al-Hazeem was previously the Bahrain chief executive -
Saudi Arabia to list $6.7m petrochemical fund
8 July 2010, 9:38 GMT
Fund will include 14 companies -
Qatar National Bank announces $742m profit in 2010
7 July 2010, 11:04 GMT
Profit driven by international expansion -
Abu Dhabi exchange planning to list real estate funds
6 July 2010, 12:11 GMT
Exchange currently seeking approval from UAE regulator -
Bahrain’s ABC bank signs $35.8m loan for Kanoo Tower
5 July 2010, 11:51 GMT
Tower located in diplomatic area of Manama -
Nakheel to take control of Limitless
5 July 2010, 7:27 GMT
New board appointed for Dubai World’s economic zone developers -
Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange volumes peak in June
4 July 2010, 10:49 GMT
Over 192,000 contracts were traded -
First Abu Dhabi IPO of the year delayed indefinitely
1 July 2010, 8:33 GMT
Listing was set to raise $272m -
Wataniya Palestine delays listing until end of third quarter
1 July 2010, 8:03 GMT
Mobile operator expected to offer 30 per cent stake -
Growth remains sluggish on region's bourses
July 2010 Online Content
Financial crisis has hampered liquidity and trading volumes -
DP World delays London listing until 2011
28 June 2010, 15:45 GMT
Company waiting for merger of Dubai’s exchanges -
Kuwait tightens investment firm regulations
28 June 2010, 11:06 GMT
Firms given until June 2012 to comply with new regulations -
Aabar buys 4.99 per cent stake in UniCredit
27 June 2010, 14:32 GMT
Abu Dhabi fund paid $2.3bn for stake in Italy’s largest bank -
Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat posts $485m loss for 2009
27 June 2010, 14:19 GMT
High losses at Gulf Air and Aluminium Bahrain weigh down results -
Egypt’s $3.5bn Mostorod refinery hit by financing delays
24 June 2010, 14:54 GMT
Financing delayed until early July -
New currency contract volumes hit $40m on Dubai exchange
24 June 2010, 12:41 GMT
New contracts listed on 15 June -
Iran overhauls capital market legislation
24 June 2010, 11:55 GMT
Foreign investors’ holding increased to 20 per cent -
UAE and Qatar stock markets retain frontier status
22 June 2010, 15:49 GMT
Key index provider says ‘major concerns’ prevent upgrade to emerging market status for Qatar and UAE -
Gulf International Bank appoints new managing director
22 June 2010, 12:35 GMT
Adel al-Mangour named new head -
Banking: Bad loans and falling assets hit growth in the GCC
Issue No 26 25-1 July 2010
Asset growth at the 20 largest banks in the GCC slowed sharply in 2009. The recovery will be gradual particularly as non-performing loans have still yet to peak -
Challenges continue for GCC banks
Issue No 26 25-1 July 2010
With a sector-wide drop in profits during 2009, the region’s banks have shifted their focus to preserving core operations and improving risk management -
RAK Ceramics listing oversubscribed by 15 times
21 June 2010, 17:05 GMT
Listing sets record as highest-ever in Bangladesh -
National Bank of Abu Dhabi announces new project finance head
21 June 2010, 11:33 GMT
Nathan Weatherstone will focus on power and infrastructure deals -
$720m claim filed against Algosaibi bank
20 June 2010, 10:54 GMT
Claim filed for the assets of The International Banking Corporation -
Turquoise Partners to list Tehran mutual fund
17 June 2010, 8:48 GMT
Fund expected to be launched by mid-July -
Iraq Stock Exchange to benefit from new legislation
17 June 2010, 7:37 GMT
Legislation proposes raising banks’ minimum capital to $214m -
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank acquires Royal Bank of Scotland's UAE retail banking unit
16 June 2010, 16:59 GMT
The acquisition of the RBS operation doubles the size of ADCB’s credit card business -
Alinma grants $1bn credit to Sabic
16 June 2010, 11:10 GMT
Bank facility will be used to fund petrochemical projects -
Nasdaq Dubai announces new board of directors
14 June 2010, 14:35 GMT
Abdul al-Fahim appointed as chairman -
Sameer al-Ansari leaves Dubai International Capital
14 June 2010, 14:28 GMT
Investment firm appoints new board -
Economic growth slows in Saudi Arabia
14 June 2010, 14:04 GMT
Government to pick up slack of lower oil growth -
Egypt’s Juhayna public offering 6.8 times oversubscribed
13 June 2010, 12:16 GMT
Capital will be used for expansion projects -
Oman Insurance Company replaces board
13 June 2010, 11:44 GMT
Seven new members appointed -
Regional exchanges need government support
10 June 2010, 12:58 GMT
Abu Dhabi and Dubai should merge their exchanges -
Middle East’s buyout activity at 12-month low
10 June 2010, 12:57 GMT
Value of deals records 83 per cent monthly decline -
Gulf Finance House restructuring is progressing
10 June 2010, 12:48 GMT
Bahrain lender embarked on an asset sell-off earlier this year -
UAE markets are weakest regional performers
10 June 2010, 12:36 GMT
Dubai bourse down 14 per cent in 2010 -
Abu Dhabi’s Aabar raises capital by $249m
9 June 2010, 12:57 GMT
Capital raised through bonus shares and bonds -
Burgan Bank to issue $478m bonds
8 June 2010, 10:44 GMT
Kuwaiti bank will give priority to the local market -
Kuwaiti investment company agrees $498m debt restructuring
8 June 2010, 10:44 GMT
Debt to be repaid over five years -
Dubai's Rasmala to launch $100m real estate fund
8 June 2010, 10:43 GMT
Fund will target Saudi Arabia’s mid-end residential market -
Egypt’s Juhayna private offering oversubscribed
7 June 2010, 12:26 GMT
Egypt’s first listing since 2008 -
Fuelling a knowledge economy in Qatar
Issue No 23 4-10 June 2010
Revenues from its hydrocarbons sector are helping Qatar to diversify and develop its education, healthcare, science and technology sectors -
Egypt's small enterprise exchange to begin trading on 3 June
26 May 2010, 12:25 GMT
Egyptian plastics company to offer capital of $69,000 -
Six companies to list on Palestine Securities Exchange by end of this year
26 May 2010, 12:00 GMT
Wataniya Mobile to offer biggest listing at $170m -
UAE Central Bank governor calls for regulatory partnership
25 May 2010, 12:05 GMT
Cooperation among banks will ensure sustained growth -
Saudi Arabia's private sector credit growth gains momentum
24 May 2010, 14:19 GMT
Credit growth improves, but government remains main financier of Saudi projects -
Abu Dhabi's Taqa refinances $1.3bn credit facility
24 May 2010, 14:18 GMT
State-owned firm gets funding from Canadian banks -
Kuwait posts $28.3bn budget surplus
24 May 2010, 14:17 GMT
Oil revenue hits more than double budget forecast -
Abu Dhabi's Aabar Investments enters $800m loan agreement
23 May 2010, 15:48 GMT
Loan to be used for general corporate purposes -
Palestine exchange set for strong listing activity in 2010
20 May 2010, 16:49 GMT
Two companies have already listed and six more IPOs are planned -
Lebanon economy to grow up to 8 per cent in 2010
20 May 2010, 16:48 GMT
Growth driven by high capital inflows -
Abu Dhabi's Aabar profit surges on derivatives
20 May 2010, 12:54 GMT
Company restates 2009 profit -
MerchantBridge seeking $200m for Iraq cement plant
20 May 2010, 12:54 GMT
Funds should be secured by the end of July -
GCC equity funds gain 3.93 per cent in 2010
19 May 2010, 11:24 GMT
Kuwait’s NBK Capital was best performing fund -
First Gulf Bank
Issue No 21 21 - 27 May 2010
The UAE lender, delivers consistent profits despite rising provisions -
First Gulf Bank: MEED Assessment
Issue No 21 21 - 27 May 2010
The lender is one of the few banks in the UAE to have maintained a healthy profit and revenue stream during the global downturn -
Dubai economy could shrink further in 2010
17 May 2010, 15:01 GMT
Association of financial instituitions says contraction hinges on construction and real estate sectors -
Sovereign debt woes take centre stage
16 May 2010, 14:19 GMT
Greece’s bailout is a reminder that the financial crisis is far from over -
Vodafone Qatar reports $185m loss
16 May 2010, 14:03 GMT
Loss driven by licence fee amortisation -
Arab stocks fall due to Greece's debt crisis
16 May 2010, 13:25 GMT
Egyptian Exchange records steepest drop -
Egypt inflation falls to 11.4 per cent
12 May 2010, 12:46 GMT
Inflation at lowest rate since September 2009 -
Saudi Electricity Company completes $1.9bn sukuk
11 May 2010, 13:55 GMT
Sukuk being used to fund expansion plans -
Fivefold increase in the total value of Middle East public listings
11 May 2010, 11:31 GMT
IPO activity valued at $420.5m in 2010 -
Commercial Bank of Kuwait chairman resigns
11 May 2010, 11:29 GMT
Banks has not provided details of his replacement -
Dubai establishes first official credit bureau
5 May 2010, 14:14 GMT
Emcredit targets increased financial transparency -
Winners and losers emerge from UAE property market
5 May 2010, 12:00 GMT
Emaar strongest performer with $207m profit -
Winners and losers emerge from UAE property market
Issue No 19 7 - 13 May 2010
Supply and demand imbalance prevails -
Dubai Financial Market appoints new chairman
4 May 2010, 13:57 GMT
Former DFM chairman becomes chief executive officer -
National Bank of Ras Al-Khaimah profit rises 42 per cent
4 May 2010, 13:55 GMT
Rakbank’s growth driven by core business operations -
DIFC Investments posts $562m loss
3 May 2010, 14:08 GMT
Losses caused by real estate and other business investment writedowns -
Dubai bourse profit falls 8 per cent
3 May 2010, 13:47 GMT
Revenue declines by 5 per cent -
Aldar posts 54 per cent revenue decline
2 May 2010, 14:01 GMT
Revenue decline driven by lack of property sales -
Middle East’s buyout activity plunges 91 per cent
2 May 2010, 14:00 GMT
Activity valued at $463m -
Dubai’s Mashreqbank profit falls 48 per cent
29 April 2010, 12:43 GMT
Performance affected by high provisioning -
Saudi Arabia's IPO market rebounds
28 April 2010, 14:30 GMT
Seven companies closed share sales in first quarter -
UAE lowers growth forecast to 2.5 per cent
28 April 2010, 14:27 GMT
Forecast revised down from 3.2 per cent -
Tabreed's 2010 profit doubles
27 April 2010, 14:29 GMT
Abu Dhabi-based firm’ profits driven by new plants coming online -
Banque Saudi Fransi posts fall in profit
26 April 2010, 13:23 GMT
Saudi bank hit by slowdown in lending income -
Bahrain's Arab Banking Corporation profit grows 25 per cent
26 April 2010, 13:21 GMT
Profit for first quarter is $41m -
Mena region to grow 4.5 per cent in 2010
26 April 2010, 10:14 GMT
Qatar will be the region’s strongest performer, says IMF -
Emaar profit beats expectations
26 April 2010, 10:12 GMT
Profit driven by Emaar’s hospitality and mall divisions -
Saudi's Finance Ministry approves projects worth $5.57bn
26 April 2010, 10:10 GMT
Construction projects include roads, schools, and wastewater facilities -
Abu Dhabi’s Finance House records $8.4m profit
25 April 2010, 13:45 GMT
Profit is driven by the company’s core business -
Sharjah Islamic Bank records $18.4m profit
25 April 2010, 13:23 GMT
First quarter profit declines 20.6 per cent -
Tehran Stock Exchange's trade volumes hit $1.1bn
22 April 2010, 15:28 GMT
Surge in trading driven by commodity price rally -
ABN Amro targets Middle East private banking clients
21 April 2010, 14:22 GMT
Dutch bank moves private banking operations to Dubai -
Sabic reports profit of $1.45bn
20 April 2010, 15:44 GMT
Profits surge on back of rise in sales volume and prices -
National Bank of Kuwait profit up 20 per cent
20 April 2010, 12:48 GMT
Bank records $264m profit in first quarter -
Bahrain Financial Exchange launch postponed to October
15 April 2010, 13:57 GMT
Launch postponed to ensure successful trading activity -
Kuwait’s Agility to pay $600m in fraud case
15 April 2010, 13:50 GMT
Agility payment to US government will be made over three years -
Moody’s upgrades Lebanon’s government bond ratings
15 April 2010, 12:59 GMT
Bonds remain in junk status -
Egypt's inflation eases to 12.2 per cent in March
14 April 2010, 14:43 GMT
Inflation down from 12.8 per cent in February -
Saudi British Bank’s profits fall
14 April 2010, 14:23 GMT
Profits down by 18.3 per cent in 2010 -
Middle East banks in talks to open branches in Iraq
14 April 2010, 13:34 GMT
Lenders hope to capitalise on Iraq’s massive reconstruction programme -
Kuwaiti finance company defaults on $200m Islamic bond
14 April 2010, 9:10 GMT
Kuwait International Investment Group bond could be dissolved -
Dubai records direct exports increase in 2009
13 April 2010, 15:05 GMT
Exports increase by 22.9 per cent from 2008 -
Jordan's inflation rate hits 4.6 per cent
11 April 2010, 8:07 GMT
Transport increases by 14.8 per cent in first quarter -
Iran’s annual inflation falls to 10.8 per cent
8 April 2010, 13:14 GMT
March inflation posts 10.4 per cent year-on-year increase -
Bahrain's 2009 retail bank loans hit $15.6bn
8 April 2010, 13:13 GMT
Total deposits stood at $21.2bn in 2009 -
Moody's confirms DP World's ratings with a stable outlook
8 April 2010, 13:12 GMT
Issuer and sukuk ratings confirmed for port operator -
Standard & Poor's downgrades Commercial Bank of Kuwait
8 April 2010, 13:12 GMT
Rating lowered due to deteriorating asset quality and funding profile -
Standard & Poor’s may downgrade Abu Dhabi entities
8 April 2010, 13:11 GMT
Downgrades of up to two notches mooted for firms in UAE capital -
Qatar National Bank's first quarter profit rises
7 April 2010, 13:26 GMT
First quarter profit increases 25 per cent to $349m compared to last year -
Dubai Islamic Bank signs $215m financing deal
6 April 2010, 12:05 GMT
Deal signed with Kuwait’s Kharafi National -
Egyptian Petroleum Corporation appoints banks on $2bn loan
6 April 2010, 12:04 GMT
Mandated lead arrangers are JP Morgan and National Bank of Egypt -
Oman's inflation reaches 2 per cent in February
6 April 2010, 12:03 GMT
Inflation increases 0.3 per cent from January -
Middle East’s buyout activity hits $8.6bn in first quarter
6 April 2010, 9:39 GMT
Value of mergers and acquisitions more than doubles in quarter-on-quarter growth -
Foreign investment: Sowing seeds for continued growth in Egypt
Issue No 15 9-15 April 2010
Despite the global economic downturn affecting its plans to attract foreign money and push reforms, Egypt is keen to lure investors to its agriculture, infrastruture and manufacturing hubs -
Aabar Investments to issue $2bn of convertible bonds
4 April 2010, 13:48 GMT
Bonds will be issued to Abu Dhabi’s International Petroleum Investment Company -
Arab Banking Corporation completes $1.1bn capital increase
1 April 2010, 15:36 GMT
Injection brings total capital to $3.11bn -
Saudi Arabia bank profits fall 14.8 per cent in 2010
1 April 2010, 14:07 GMT
Bank profits stood at $1.38bn at end of February -
Limitless given extension on $1.2bn loan
31 March 2010, 16:21 GMT
Lenders still negotiating new loan terms -
GCC needs to invest $137bn to meet power and water demand
Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
Power demand growth to average 8 per cent until 2019 -
US firms favourites to be lead arrangers on $290m EgyptAir loan
Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
US’ JP Morgan and Citigroup submit best bids -
A long road ahead for Dubai World
Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
Debt proposals lack clarity on crucial details and a final settlement will still be a long way off -
Egyptian Petroleum shortlists three for $2bn loan
Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
Winning bid to be announced on 1 April -
Dubai appoints new Nakheel board
30 March 2010, 17:20 GMT
Nakheel Chairman Sultan bin Sulayem replaced -
Jubail refinery partners secure $120m loan
29 March 2010, 7:50 GMT
Local Islamic Development Bank to provide loan -
National Bank of Kuwait gains approval to increase Boubyan stake
29 March 2010, 7:50 GMT
Bank given approval to raise stake to 60 per cent -
Foreign investors buy $456m of shares on Dubai exchange
28 March 2010, 14:30 GMT
Net foreign investment reaches AED37.7m on Dubai Financial Market -
UAE can service Dubai World’s debts, says Deutsche Bank regional head
25 March 2010, 13:44 GMT
Questions remain over level of federal support -
Kuwait central bank forecasts GDP growth of up to 5 per cent in 2010
25 March 2010, 13:23 GMT
Worst is over for banks, central bank governor says -
National Bank of Abu Dhabi to list first exchange-traded fund on stock exchange
25 March 2010, 13:20 GMT
Fund to track Dow Jones index -
Zain finalising sale of African operations to Bharti
25 March 2010, 13:04 GMT
Bharti to pay Kuwait telecoms operator $9bn in cash -
Standard & Poor’s raises Morocco's credit rating
24 March 2010, 6:34 GMT
Ratings agency cites improved economic flexibility -
Standard & Poor’s affirms stable outlook for Oman
24 March 2010, 6:33 GMT
Higher oil production strengthens Oman’s public finances -
Abu Dhabi plans foreign investment agency
23 March 2010, 13:27 GMT
Agency to begin operations by end of the year -
Fitch downgrades Mashreqbank
23 March 2010, 12:30 GMT
Downgrade reflects Dubai World and Saudi corporate exposure -
Tadawul to allow funds to invest in Islamic bonds
23 March 2010, 6:02 GMT
Regulator says exchange traded funds will be able to invest in sukuk and commodities -
Nasdaq Dubai looks for liquidity
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Can its acquisition by Dubai Financial Market convince more traders to use Nasdaq Dubai? -
Noor Islamic Bank
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Noor Islamic Bank has revised its timetable for growth in light of ongoing market uncertainty -
Noor Islamic Bank: MEED Assessment
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Bank’s dependence on the state for sources of funding raises concerns about future lending capacity -
Q&A: Hussain Al-Qemzi, CEO, Noor Islamic Bank
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Growth potential for GCC Islamic banks as demand outpaces the competition -
Saudi Arabia: A lure for overseas business
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Economic, financial and legal reform are making Saudi Arabia an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investors -
Saudi Arabia: A lure for overseas business
Issue No 13 26 March - 1 April 2010
Economic, financial and legal reform are making Saudi Arabia an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investors -
Mubadala reports $2.3bn profits for 2009
22 March 2010, 12:22 GMT
Total asset values rise by 75 per cent -
Dubai Investments in talks to float private equity arm
21 March 2010, 12:45 GMT
M’Sharie listing expected no later than March 2011 -
Commercial Bank of Kuwait profit drops 99 per cent in 2009
21 March 2010, 9:57 GMT
Kuwait lender’s profits hit by high provisions for bad loans -
Adia restructures board of directors
18 March 2010, 13:06 GMT
Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund publishes first annual review -
Saudi Arabia approves first exchange-traded fund for foreigners
17 March 2010, 14:15 GMT
Falcom Financial Services wins approval to list exchange-traded fund -
S&P downgrades local operations of Jordan’s Arab Bank
17 March 2010, 13:45 GMT
Rating action follows downgrade of Jordan’s sovereign credit rating -
Banks in the Gulf to increase lending activities this year
17 March 2010, 5:46 GMT
Standard & Poor’s forecasts banks to increase lending after flat growth in 2009 -
Foreign investors buy $335 shares on Dubai exchange
15 March 2010, 11:57 GMT
Net foreign investment reached AED83.6m -
Oman inflation jumps to five-month high in January
15 March 2010, 11:55 GMT
Rise in transport prices and rents drives inflation -
Nasdaq Dubai equities trading jumps 61 per cent in February
15 March 2010, 7:23 GMT
Total equities volumes on UAE’s Nasdaq Dubai drop 43.1 per cent compared last year -
Region's stock markets rebound 4.9 per cent in February
15 March 2010, 7:23 GMT
Kuwait Stock Exchange is top performer in the Middle East and North Africa -
Bahrain’s Ithmaar Bank plans $400m capital increase
14 March 2010, 12:48 GMT
Ithmaar to sell shares above market price -
Gulf growth to outpace developed countries in 2010
14 March 2010, 12:17 GMT
International Monetary Fund says Gulf’s medium-term outlook remains positive -
Tabreed likely to restructure debt
11 March 2010, 14:17 GMT
UAE district cooling company seeking support from creditors for recapitalisation -
Balancing Saudi Arabia’s local and export oil needs
Issue No 11 12-18 March 2010
A rise in domestic fuel consumption and a fall in oil export revenues will test the kingdom’s economy in 2010 -
Gulf banks’ non performing loans will peak in mid-2010
8 March 2010, 14:36 GMT
Kuwait and Dubai-based banks fuel rise in region’s non-performing loans -
Moody’s downgrades UAE government-related issuers
4 March 2010, 15:44 GMT
Ratings agency raises concerns over strength of sovereign support -
Oman records $57m budget deficit in 2009
4 March 2010, 14:40 GMT
Budget outperforms expectations after oil price recovers -
Saudi Aramco seeks $4bn from local banks for Jubail refinery
3 March 2010, 17:28 GMT
Financing set to be completed by the end of March -
Du returns to growth in 2009
2 March 2010, 11:25 GMT
Telecom operator’s net profits increase by $72m -
Daman Investments launches GCC fund
23 February 2010, 16:00 GMT
Fund targets petrochemicals and telecoms sectors -
Al-Rajhi Capital and Arcapita Bank launch property fund
22 February 2010, 17:40 GMT
Demand for Saudi Arabian real estate increases -
Saudi Electricity Company plans power projects worth $20bn
17 February 2010, 17:11 GMT
Utility plans to use more financing from private sector -
Bahraini economy grows 3 per cent
17 February 2010, 16:25 GMT
Islamic finance is set to become an important funding mechanism for projects -
Regional power and water deals require $13bn financing in 2010
17 February 2010, 15:35 GMT
Developers focus on competitive IWPP model -
Dubai enters an age of austerity
Issue No 8 19-25 February 2010
The emirate has announced a 6 per cent cut in state spending for 2010 as it feels the strain of its debts in the aftermath of its real estate sector collapse -
Oman to tender first solar project by December
Issue No 8 19-25 February 2010
Renewable energy scheme is likely to be privately financed -
Alternative funding fills the gap in project finance sector
Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
Despite the squeeze on liquidity, banks have worked hard to find creative ways of closing deals and the Middle East remains among the world’s most active project finance markets -
Khaleeji Commercial Bank profits fall 89 per cent
9 February 2010, 16:28 GMT
Provisioning for bad debts and tough regional market hits institution -
Megaprojects push Qatar's population up
Issue No 6 5-11 February 2010
Qatar’s mushrooming expatriate population is putting increasing pressure on the state’s infrastructure – but the influx of new workers is also proving a motor for diversification -
National Bank of Abu Dhabi reports $822m profit in 2009
2 February 2010, 16:26 GMT
Tough market conditions hit institution -
Global Banking Corporation (GBC)
2 February 2010, 7:28 GMT
The fledgling Bahrain-based finance house is seeking to grow its business internationally. -
Barclays urges businesses to exploit regional bond market
27 January 2010, 17:38 GMT
Bonds will allow investors to raise debt and maintain growth locally -
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank reports $139m loss in 2009
27 January 2010, 17:18 GMT
Net impairment allowances grow by 151 per cent -
Iraq approves $72bn budget for 2010
27 January 2010, 15:11 GMT
Parliament predicts 23 per cent increase in spending -
Sharjah Islamic Bank profits rise 12 per cent
26 January 2010, 15:00 GMT
Total assets hit $4bn by end of 2009 -
Fitch places Commercial Bank of Kuwait on watch negative
24 January 2010, 14:29 GMT
Bank’s non-performing loans almost triple over 2009 -
Qatar’s Commercialbank reports fall in profits
24 January 2010, 14:04 GMT
Fourth quarter net profit increases by 33 per cent -
National Commercial Bank doubles profits in 2009
19 January 2010, 17:11 GMT
Value of Saudi state-owned bank’s assets grow by 16.1 per cent -
Riyadh spending to safeguard the future
Issue No 4 22-28 January 2009
In a bid to maintain its economic growth and diversify its economy, the kingdom is using its vast financial reserves to support an increasingly expansionist spending programme -
Alinma Bank announces 85 per cent fall in profits
18 January 2010, 14:24 GMT
Rising operating costs hit Saudi bank’s profits -
Al-Rajhi Bank profits rise by 3.2 per cent
17 January 2010, 14:04 GMT
Fourth quarter profit rise despite increased provisions -
Gulf taps into Western educational expertise
Issue No 2 8-14 January 2010
In a bid to develop tertiary education, Gulf states are luring international universities to open colleges in the region, but there are concerns about the quality of education on offer -
Nurturing regional talent
Issue No 2 8-14 January 2010
Corporate and state funded scholarships are playing a crucial role in equipping students with the essential skills for a modern economy -
Arab Banking Corporation
Issue no 51 18-24 December 2009
ABC is focusing on expanding its retail business as it aims to become one of the region’s leading banks -
Arab Banking Corporation: MEED Assessment
Issue no 51 18-24 December 2009
ABC’s capital base is strong, so future performance will depend on how successful it is in implementing its revised business strategy -
Special Report: Construction - Industrial schemes prompt hope
Issue No 50 11-17 December 2009
Dubai-based real estate developer Nakheel has become the focus of the problems in the emirate’s construction market in recent weeks, as it tries to restructure a $3.5bn sukuk (Islamic bond) before the repayment deadline of 14 December. -
Sukuk face crisis of confidence
Issue No 50 11-17 December 2009
Defaults on project finance sukuk are making both clients and investors wary, but a change to the tenor of Islamic bonds could rekindle their popularity in the future -
Ajman plans for recovery
Issue No 49 4-10 December 2009
The northern emirate is seeking to restore long-term confidence in its property market after the devastating impact of the downturn in Dubai -
A new breed of Islamic bank in the region
18 November 2009, 16:23 GMT
The launch of a series of institutions with government backing is helping to modernise the Islamic banking sector in the Gulf -
Agencies maintain cautious stance over regional banks
18 November 2009, 16:09 GMT
One year on from when the global financial crisis began to have an impact in the Middle East, the three major credit ratings agencies are yet to improve their assessment of the region’s banks -
Doha economy continues to shine
Issue No 44 30 October - 5 November 2009
Qatar is forecast to be the world’s fastest-growing economy this year, driven by strong sales of liquefied natural gas -
Investors wake up to IT opportunities in the region
Issue No 44 30 October - 5 November 2009
The region’s information and communications technology companies have previously attracted little interest from the private sector compared with sectors such as real estate, but that is changing -
Rapid change in Gulf healthcare brings opportunities
20 October 2009, 15:46 GMT
As governments in the region commit large sums to improving the quality of their healthcare provision, they are opening the way for the private sector to become increasingly involved. -
GCC project finance
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
The six key figures in the GCC’s project and structured finance markets are: Geoffrey Biron, Joseph Rodriguez, Irfan Said, Mansoor Durrani, Saad ur-Rehman and Hassan Ali -
Geoffrey Biron
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
A Geoffrey Biron is global head of project and structured finance, Arab Banking Corporation -
Hassan Ali
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
A key figure in the GCC’s project and structured finance markets -
Irfan Said
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
Irfan Said is head of project and structured finance, Samba Financial Group -
Joseph Rodriguez
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
Joseph Rodriguez is head of leveraged finance, Al-Rajhi Capital -
Mansoor Durrani
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
Mansoor Durrani is vice-president and head of project finance, National Commercial Bank -
Saad ur-Rehman
Issue No 43 23-29 October 2009
Saad ur-Rehman is head of the structured finance division, Banque Saudi Fransi (BSF) -
National Commercial Bank
Issue No 42 16-22 October 2009
Despite the economic downturn, NCB is prospering, buoyed by its reputation and focus on retail banking -
National Commercial Bank: MEED Assessment
Issue No 42 16-22 October 2009
NCB is one of the most respected banks in the region, but unlike many of its counterparts, it maintains sizeable exposure to riskier asset classes -
Q&A: Raul Biancardi, Chief Operating Officer, National Commercial Bank Capital
Issue No 42 16-22 October 2009
Already the largest investment bank in Saudi Arabia, NCB’s strategy is to invest in three main business areas to continue its growth -
Smoothing the way for entrepreneurs in the Emirates
Issue No 42 16-22 October 2009
The federal government is making a concerted effort to increase the contribution of small companies to the UAE economy by providing funding and making it easier to set up a business -
Index launches boost sharia-compliant equities in Saudi Arabia
Issue No 41 9-15 October 2009
Indices tracking the performance of sharia-compliant equities listed on the Saudi stock exchange will open up the market to investors worldwide -
Emerging sharia finance sector beats the downturn
Issue No 39 25 September - 1 October 2009
The central tenets of sharia finance stood Islamic banks in good stead during the global economic crisis over the past year, and the sector is now one of the fastest growing in the Middle East -
Expertise shortage hampers growth of Islamic finance sector
Issue No 39 25 September - 1 October 2009
The Islamic finance sector has an opportunity to gain a much larger global share, but a lack of scholars able to assess financial products for sharia compliance is holding back the industry -
Islamic bonds market stages slow recovery
Issue No 39 25 September - 1 October 2009
Activity is returning to the Islamic bond sector following the global slowdown, with sovereign issuances rekindling investor confidence and providing a fresh benchmark for pricing debt -
The West’s Islamic finance hub
Issue No 39 25 September - 1 October 2009
London has quickly established itself as the European leader in Islamic banking, but it will need continued support from Gulf institutions if it is to retain its position -
Abdel Khan
Issue No 38 18 - 24 September 2009
Abdel Khan is a sustainability consultant, Faithful & Gould -
Jeffrey Willis
Issue No 38 18 - 24 September 2009
Jeffrey Willis is sustainability leader for the Gulf, Arup -
Mario Seneviratne
Issue No 38 18 - 24 September 2009
Mario Seneviratne is director, Green Technologies -
The MEED List: Gulf green buildings
Issue No 38 18 - 24 September 2009
Six key figures driving environmental sustainability in Gulf construction are: Issa al-Mohannadi, Abdel Khan, Sadek Owainati, Mario Seneviratne, Tim Armstrong and Jeffrey Willis -
Tim Armstrong
Issue No 38 18 - 24 September 2009
Tim Armstrong, technical director, WSP Middle East -
Burgan Bank
Issue No 36 4 - 10 September 2009
The Kuwaiti bank posted strong growth in the first half of the year despite the tough financial climate. -
Burgan Bank: MEED Assessment
Issue No 36 4 - 10 September 2009
The Kuwaiti bank’s expansion strategy and diversified balance sheet has helped it continue to grow its operating income -
Regional funding markets begin to recover
Issue No 36 4 - 10 September 2009
The raising of $1.7bn from international banks for the Addur power and water project in Bahrain shows that confidence is returning to the lending markets, with state-sponsored schemes the first to benefit. -
Bad debts increase loan provisions in the Gulf
Issue No 35 28 August - 3 September 2009
Gulf banks are setting aside additional funds to cope with the rising volume of non-performing loans -
Gulf states turn to the private sector for project finance
14 August 2009, 12:52 GMT
With banks reluctant to offer debt financing on new projects, private equity investors are increasingly taking the opportunity to enter the Gulf’s growing healthcare sector. -
Q&A: Ammar Shata, Executive Director, Al-Khabeer
13 August 2009, 17:33 GMT
The company is focused on Saudi Arabia, catering mainly to middle-market businesses and family companies -
Al-Khabeer: MEED Assessment
13 August 2009, 17:30 GMT
The Saudi investment bank is still a young company and competition in the Islamic banking sector is getting tougher -
Al-Khabeer
13 August 2009, 17:16 GMT
The Saudi investment bank aims to expand its corporate and structured finance business. -
Kuwait Islamic banking
7 August 2009, 14:24 GMT
Six key figures working in Kuwait’s Islamic finance sector: Mohammed Sulaiman al-Omar, Adil Ahmad, Fahed Faisal Boodai, Ayman Abdullah Boodai, Adnan Abdulaziz al-Bahar, Adnan al-Musallam. -
Special Report: Capital Markets - Downturn exposes investors' weaknesses
31 July 2009, 16:17 GMT
The past 12 months has been a torrid time for GCC stock markets, which collectively lost more than 40 per cent of their value over the period. Today, their total market capitalisation is $655bn - $500bn less than a year ago. -
Stock market development plans on hold
31 July 2009, 15:36 GMT
With the global economic downturn having wiped billions of dollars off the value of Gulf bourses, trading in a series of new financial instruments is being postponed. -
Real estate undermines Jordanian banks
23 July 2009, 13:55 GMT
Limited integration with international markets and swift action from the regulator has helped to shield Jordan’s banks from the downturn, but their exposure to the property markets is a cause for concern. -
Real estate undermines Jordanian banks
23 July 2009, 13:55 GMT
Limited integration with international markets and swift action from the regulator has helped to shield Jordan’s banks from the downturn, but their exposure to the property markets is a cause for concern. -
Jordan looking beyond the downturn
23 July 2009, 13:34 GMT
Jordan is boosting public spending, building on its relationship with Baghdad and seeking to implement a series of reforms in a bid to stimulate its economy. -
Sukuk show signs of recovery
9 July 2009, 15:46 GMT
The Islamic bonds market is bouncing back from the impact of the global financial crisis. -
Credit markets tighten further in the Gulf
2 July 2009, 17:53 GMT
While government injections of cash have helped to strengthen the banks’ balance sheets, lending activity in the region is expected to fall this year. -
Credit markets tighten further in the Gulf
2 July 2009, 17:53 GMT
While government injections of cash have helped to strengthen the banks’ balance sheets, lending activity in the region is expected to fall this year. -
Gulf banks ride out the downturn
2 July 2009, 16:55 GMT
Despite the global financial downturn, MEED's research into the performance of the GCC banking sector in 2008 shows that most of the largest institutions continued to grow their assets. -
Abu Dhabi airports
2 July 2009, 16:11 GMT
Six key figures behind the growth of Abu Dhabi’s airports: Khalifa Mohamed al-Mazrouei, James Hogan, Sheikha al-Maskari, Rudy Vercelli, Hans Bakker and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif al-Nahyan. -
Ithmaar Bank
25 June 2009, 17:42 GMT
The Bahraini Islamic investment bank is diversifying its operations through its Vision 3 subsidiary. -
Q&A: Mohamed Hussain, Co-CEO, Ithmaar Bank
25 June 2009, 15:12 GMT
The bank believes its greatest strength is its diversity -
Ithmaar Bank: MEED Assessment
25 June 2009, 15:09 GMT
Before the downturn hit, the bank had been reporting record results, but it has suffered as a result of the financial turmoil -
Slowdown reveals Qatar's strengths
11 June 2009, 18:44 GMT
Despite the global financial crisis, Qatar’s economy continues to grow thanks to the booming hydrocarbons industry and a range of downstream initiatives. -
Slowdown reveals Qatar's strengths
11 June 2009, 18:44 GMT
Despite the global financial crisis, Qatar’s economy continues to grow thanks to the booming hydrocarbons industry and a range of downstream initiatives. -
Amman to become net oil exporter
22 May 2009, 15:30 GMT
UK/Dutch Shell Group signs $425m deal to exploit the kingdom's oil shale reserves. -
Strict regulator benefits Saudi banks
21 May 2009, 20:33 GMT
Despite the record decline in profits suffered by Saudi banks last year, the conservative policies of the central bank have put them in a strong position for recovery in 2009. -
Jordan banking
21 May 2009, 18:29 GMT
The six important figures working in Jordan’s banking sector: Umayya Salah Toukan, Abdel Hamid Shoman, Abdel Karim al-Kabariti, Michel Marto, Marwan Awad and Rajai Muasher. -
Falling prices buoy struggling Gulf construction market
30 April 2009, 16:57 GMT
Materials and labour costs will continue to decline this year, encouraging public sector clients in particular to renegotiate deals with contractors to get major infrastructure projects back on track. -
Falling prices buoy struggling Gulf construction market
30 April 2009, 16:57 GMT
Materials and labour costs will continue to decline this year, encouraging public sector clients in particular to renegotiate deals with contractors to get major infrastructure projects back on track. -
Regional conference sector defies the downturn
23 April 2009, 17:41 GMT
Middle East economies, particularly Dubai, have worked hard to establish themselves as global centres for business events, and the investment continues even as the global economic slowdown hits the sector. -
Alinma Bank: MEED Assessment
23 April 2009, 16:32 GMT
Unlike many banks, it has the advantage of a fresh balance sheet with no bad assets, but its real test will be the launch of its retail division -
Alinma Bank
23 April 2009, 16:28 GMT
The newcomer to the Saudi financial sector is already the kingdom’s largest bank by capital base. -
Improving Cairo's investment climate
8 April 2009, 16:17 GMT
The government’s reform programme has helped Egypt weather the global financial crisis, but with foreign direct investment falling off, Cairo is seeking ways to attract further funds. -
Improving Cairo's investment climate
8 April 2009, 16:17 GMT
The government’s reform programme has helped Egypt weather the global financial crisis, but with foreign direct investment falling off, Cairo is seeking ways to attract further funds. -
Cleaning up Egypt's bourse
8 April 2009, 16:03 GMT
Egypt’s stock exchange has undergone a series of changes over the past year with the aim of boosting liquidity and improving trading efficiency. -
Cairo reviews growth predictions
8 April 2009, 15:56 GMT
While the Egyptian authorities have lowered their growth targets for this year, with two $2.7bn fiscal stimulus packages announced and strong fundamentals, the country is well placed for the recovery. -
Egypt inward investment
2 April 2009, 13:09 GMT
The six key figures leading Egypt’s drive to attract foreign direct investment are: Mahmoud Mohieldin, Maged Shawky, Assem Ragab, Ahmed Nazif, Tarek Kamel and Youssef Boutros-Ghali. -
Soaring education fees spark concern in UAE
12 March 2009, 16:22 GMT
The Education Ministry’s decision to allow private schools to charge more in an attempt to drive up standards is coming in for criticism. -
Developers in UAE refocus on middle market
12 March 2009, 16:16 GMT
After five years of uninterrupted growth, the UAE real estate sector is entering a phase of correction and consolidation, with luxury developments being shelved in favour of mid-priced properties. -
MEED 100 - Sector Analysis: Banking and Finance
1 March 2009, 11:10 GMT
The turmoil in the financial markets has led to a large drop in the number of banks appearing on this year’s list. -
MEED 100 - Results: Market values plummet as downturn hits
1 March 2009, 10:58 GMT
The impact of the global economic slowdown is revealed in MEED’s 2009 survey of the region’s largest listed companies, with their combined market capitalisation down almost 50 per cent year on year. -
Regional bank regulators
1 March 2009, 9:44 GMT
Six leading figures involved in regulating the region’s banks and financial institutions - Phillip Thorpe, Stephen Glynn, Rasheed al-Maraj, Sheikh Salem al-Sabah, Mohammed al-Jasser and Sultan bin Nasser al-Suwaidi. -
Losing confidence in Libor
22 February 2009, 11:18 GMT
The London interbank lending rate has traditionally been a global benchmark, but as the cost of debt has spiralled, its usefulness is increasingly being questioned. -
Gulf prioritises essential electricity and water infrastructure
22 February 2009, 9:47 GMT
Despite the collapse of the global banking system, Gulf states are set to continue funding projects that will help build modern electricity and water infrastructure. -
Short-term funding bridges the project finance gap
22 February 2009, 9:14 GMT
While the availability of financing for Gulf projects has been hit hard by the global credit crunch, new funding models are enabling clients to keep many of their key projects on track. -
Swift action protects Qatar's banks
8 February 2009, 10:58 GMT
While financial institutions in other Gulf states have been hit hard by the global downturn, measures introduced by the Qatar Central Bank have helped shore up the sector. -
Monetary union: Gulf reaches accord on currency
8 February 2009, 8:21 GMT
With the deadline for a single GCC currency fast approaching, member states have finally agreed on the draft proposals. -
Housing supply fails to match demand in Bahrain
1 February 2009, 10:23 GMT
Despite a growing shortage of affordable homes, the high price and limited availability of land in Bahrain means the kingdom’s property developers have concentrated on the luxury end of the market. -
Global Banking Corporation: MEED Assessment
11 January 2009, 7:52 GMT
While investment activity will be quieter in the year ahead, the most prudent growth strategy for GBC will be to focus on the Gulf region -
Global Banking Corporation (GBC)
11 January 2009, 7:27 GMT
The fledgling Bahrain-based finance house is seeking to grow its business internationally. -
Sector outlook 2009: Banking
2 January 2009, 13:35 GMT
The global liquidity squeeze will affect Middle East banks' performance throughout 2009. -
Sector outlook 2009: State spending to speed recovery
2 January 2009, 13:26 GMT
Governments are poised to step in and fund key projects to mitigate the fall in oil prices as the global downturn threatens to undermine the economies of the Middle East and North Africa. -
Liberalising the Saudi economy
21 December 2008, 13:44 GMT
The kingdom is leading the region in attracting foreign investment following the easing of restrictions on non-Saudi investors and opening up of the stock market. -
Technology outsourcing strategy pays off for Cairo
11 December 2008, 13:06 GMT
With tax reforms and a growing talent pool of IT graduates, the Egyptian capital is becoming an attractive location for overseas firms. -
Banking liquidity shortage triggers Gulf price war
5 December 2008, 16:13 GMT
With global financial institutions no longer lending to each other, and loan growth outstripping deposit growth in the region, competition for customers is becoming intense among Gulf banks. -
Confidence in Gulf banking sector ebbs away
4 December 2008, 16:08 GMT
Gulf banks posted healthy third-quarter results in October, but as the impact of the global financial crisis is felt across the region, the outlook is turning negative. -
Slowdown halts soaring pay in GCC
21 November 2008, 18:48 GMT
While workers’ pay has flatlined in most of the region’s construction markets, competition for labour means it is continuing to rise in some GCC states. -
Oversupply hits materials producers in the region
21 November 2008, 18:04 GMT
As the global credit crisis begins to have an effect on the Middle East construction sector, demand for materials is decreasing, leading to falling prices and the risk of oversupply. -
Oversupply hits materials producers in the region
21 November 2008, 18:04 GMT
As the global credit crisis begins to have an effect on the Middle East construction sector, demand for materials is decreasing, leading to falling prices and the risk of oversupply. -
Housing finance fuels Egyptian property boom
7 November 2008, 16:11 GMT
Lower property taxes and registration fees are encouraging Egyptians to take advantage of home loans to buy properties, and mortgage finance companies are flooding into the untapped market. -
Cairo seeks to elude downturn
7 November 2008, 16:00 GMT
Egypt is facing an economic slowdown, but Cairo says liberalising the economy, tapping fresh sources of investment and enforcing firmer regulations will mitigate its impact. -
Egyptian banking reforms drives economic growth
7 November 2008, 15:51 GMT
Egypt is not immune to the effects of the global downturn, but Cairo’s overhaul of its banking sector shows the country is well placed to weather the economic storm. -
Cairo faces barriers to democracy
7 November 2008, 15:32 GMT
Cairo continues to stifle freedom of expression, political opposition and is accused of rolling back steps towards democracy, while seeking to reassert itself on the regional diplomatic stage. -
Egypt banking
24 October 2008, 16:29 GMT
Six key players in the Egyptian banking and finance sector: Farouk el-Okdah, Hisham Ezz al-Arab, Mohamed Kamal al-Din Barakat, Tarek Amer, Mahmoud Abdel Latif and Mohamed Yehia Saim Ozalp. -
Qatar is the Middle East’s rising star
9 October 2008, 20:14 GMT
Doha’s efforts to attract big-name foreign financial institutions are working, with more than 100 firms expected to be licensed by the end of the year. -
Lending growth fuels inflation in Qatar
9 October 2008, 19:39 GMT
The rapid expansion of the banking sector is a major contributor to Qatar’s high inflation, which is now the greatest economic challenge facing the authorities. -
Qatar becoming the region’s peace-broker
9 October 2008, 19:24 GMT
Following successful diplomatic efforts such as the Doha Agreement, Qatar is carving out a role as mediator for the Arab world. -
Oman creates a gateway to shipping in the Gulf
19 September 2008, 11:19 GMT
Oman has been investing heavily in building world-class ports with industrial estates as well promoting international trade in a bid to attract investors, boost exports and diversify the economy. -
Oil hopes fall on new techniques in Oman
18 September 2008, 19:24 GMT
With declining reserves, Oman has no option but to invest in enhanced oil recovery methods. But it could turn this to its advantage by exporting its newly acquired expertise. -
Muscat taps the leisure market
18 September 2008, 18:29 GMT
Oman’s investment in tourism infrastructure is paying off, with visitor numbers rising and the sector on track to meet its target of generating 3 per cent of gross domestic product by 2020. -
Planning drives Oman's economic growth
18 September 2008, 14:56 GMT
As the range of activities contributing to Oman’s gross domestic product widens, Sultan Qaboos’ vision of a diversified economy with a home-grown workforce is being realised -
Tackling the threat of inflation in Oman
18 September 2008, 14:48 GMT
While Muscat’s diversification strategy is fuelling an economic boom, the rising cost of living needs to be brought under control if its success is to be maintained. -
Nawras
14 September 2008, 13:26 GMT
Oman’s only private telecoms company faces a challenge in the form of further market reforms -
Q&A: Ross Cormack, CEO, Nawras
14 September 2008, 13:26 GMT
Government introduction of resellers puts pressure on build-out plans -
Noor a new force in Islamic banking
14 September 2008, 13:03 GMT
NIB is planning a multi-billion-dollar spending spree to help it achieve its goal of becoming the world’s largest sharia-compliant financial institution within five years. -
Nawras: MEED Assessment
14 September 2008, 12:26 GMT
New competition poses a challenge for Oman’s leading telecom company -
Islamic finance: Moving into the mainstream
14 September 2008, 7:59 GMT
From a niche market just a few years ago, the Islamic finance sector is set to be worth $4 trillion within five years as demand for sharia-compliant products soars. -
Bank Muscat
31 July 2008, 12:38 GMT
The Omani bank is building on its London Stock Exchange listing with plans to expand overseas -
Bank Muscat: MEED Assessment
31 July 2008, 12:38 GMT
Strong dependence on the performance of the local economy makes the Bank Muscat vulnerable to market forces -
Q&A: Sheikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah al-Khalili, Chairman, Bank Muscat
31 July 2008, 8:28 GMT
Rapid expansion will secure the Gulf bank’s position as a leader in the GCC -
Abu Dhabi’s blueprint for education
17 July 2008, 15:36 GMT
The emirate is reforming its colleges and universities to provide the skilled workforce its economy needs.




