News archive
Qatar: Risk February 2019
Qatar has shown strong resilience in the face of the economic blockade by its four Arab neigh- bours. But its withdrawal from Opec indicates no appetite for compromise. • Economic risk (MEDIUM): The sustained growth performance and forecast upgrade b...
Kuwait: Risk February 2019
Kuwait will enjoy 4%+ growth after 2017’s slump thanks to higher oil output and prices. Risks remain relating to the geopolitical and domestic political backdrop and the commercial environ- ment. • Economic risk (MEDIUM): Kuwait may take a knock from...
Saudi Arabia: Risk February 2019
bin Salman may face curbs on his power that might in turn a ect progress on the National Transfor- mation Program. • Economic risk (MEDIUM): Stronger growth in the second quarter of 2018 indicates an economy on the turn. However a likely cut in oil p...
Egypt: Risk February 2019
Summary Egypt’s con dence in not needing to renew its nance line from the IMF together with sustained growth levels are further signs the economy is responding to the bailout medicine. • Economic risk (MEDIUM): Stronger growth, a budget surplus, fall...
Bahrain: Risk February 2019
Bahrain’s move to become a high tech nancial hub could be undermined by concerns over its external nancing position, a more hardline authoritarian streak, and diplomatic rift with Qatar. • Economic risk (MEDIUM): Slower growth in the third quarter ha...
Tunisia: Risk January 2019
Tunisia has strived to push through reforms needed to secure the fourth tranche of a $2.9bn credit line from the IMF. But political risks further may be lifting after January 2018’s unrest. Economic risk (MEDIUM): Economic activity is picking up, but...
Syria: Risk January 2019
The interventions by the US, Turkey, Russia, Iran and Israel in Syria add to the risks of international escalation. The economy, politics and nances in Syria are likely to continue on a downward slide. • Economic risk (HIGH): As much as 80% of the pr...
Oman: Risk January 2019
Oman faces sizeable and persistent twin de cits and the prospect of a meagre growth outlook, while succession risk hangs over the sultanate. • Economic risk (HIGH): Higher prices following cuts in Opec production quotes may help reduce the scal and c...