
Saudi Arabia Risk October 2017
Reports that the Saudis are revising their economic transformation plan will cast doubt on their commitment to reform. Any failure to deliver will risk fiscal crisis, currency devaluation, rising unemployment and civil unrest.
Economic risk (MEDIUM): The likely stagnation of growth in the first half of 2017 will increase pressure on the government to push through economic reforms.
Political risk (HIGH): The stature of Prince Mohammed as Crown Prince has been weakened by the plans to redraft the economic transformation plan that was seen as his initiative.
Financial risk (LOW): The banking system is stable, well-regulated and well-capitalised but that would be at risk in the case of a sharp economic downturn. Its stock market may be upgraded to EM status by MSCI in 2019.
Commercial risk (MEDIUM): The country sits in the middle of the World Bank’s Doing Business index and takes a harsh line on corruption and bribery. It secured $350bn of deals with the US as part of Donald Trump’s visit.