Saudi Arabia is preparing to tap global debt markets with a two-part Islamic bond (sukuk) issuance. Guidance suggests pricing for the dual tranches at approximately 95 basis points and 105 basis points over U.S. Treasuries, aimed at drawing international investment. Source: AGBI
Saudi Arabia Readies Dual-Tranche Sukuk Sale to Global Markets Read More »
In a bid to broaden financial inclusion, Egypt’s central bank has authorized banks to establish small service units in non-traditional locations—such as malls, cooperatives, and clubs—along with mobile branches on buses and trains. This strategic move aims to bring banking services closer to underserved areas, particularly for MSMEs and remote communities, aligning with Egypt’s Vision
Egypt Permits Banks to Set Up Mini-Branches and Mobile Units Read More »
Rothschild & Co has acquired the United Arab Emirates subsidiary of Liechtensteinische Landesbank (LLB), taking on around 20 employees and their clients. This move is expected to add up to CHF 1 billion (roughly $1.24 billion) in assets under management to Rothschild’s regional wealth business. The firm has expanded its footprint with offices in Dubai
Rothschild Acquires UAE Arm of LLB to Expand Wealth Management Read More »
Most Gulf stock markets ended higher on September 2, buoyed by rising oil prices and investor optimism ahead of upcoming U.S. employment data. Dubai led the gains with a 0.7% rise, benefiting from strength in Emaar Properties, while Abu Dhabi climbed 0.2%. Saudi Arabia’s index remained stable after a prolonged slump, and Qatar also saw modest
Gulf Markets Rose on Optimism Ahead of U.S. Jobs Report Read More »
In the first half of 2025, Saudi Arabia remained the largest issuer in the GCC debt market, issuing $47.9 billion in bonds and sukuk—though this reflects a nearly 20% year-over-year decline. The majority of issuances were in U.S. dollars, and there’s a noticeable shift toward conventional debt over Islamic structures, highlighting evolving strategies in regional
Saudi Arabia still leads GCC in debt issuance despite a slowdown Read More »
Dubai’s financial center, notably the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), now hosts over 7,700 firms and nearly 48,000 workers—more than double its size since 2020. However, the emirate faces mounting pressure from rival hubs like Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Despite infrastructure strains and rising costs, Dubai continues to attract crypto-related firms, even as regulatory scrutiny
Dubai retains its status as regional finance hub amid rising competition Read More »
On September 1, Gulf equities dipped as oil prices remained under pressure. Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index declined around 0.2–0.3%, marking a sixth straight losing session, driven by declines in key firms like Saudi Aramco and Al Rajhi Bank. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar also saw drops, especially in real estate and banking sectors, reflecting regional
Gulf stock markets broadly soften amid weak oil prices Read More »
Bahrain is in discussions with over 50 financial service providers, nearly half focused on crypto and asset management. The kingdom aims to boost its financial sector with attractive offering of full foreign ownership and tax-free environment. Platforms like Binance and Crypto.com have already obtained operating licenses, positioning Bahrain as a growing regional hub for digital
Bahrain actively courts crypto and investment firms Read More »
Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), once noted for delays and underuse, is now showing substantial progress under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. Many global firms—including HSBC, Accenture, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley—are taking up presence, while new commercial laws improve the legal environment. However, analysts caution more regulatory clarity is necessary to
King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh gaining momentum Read More »
A Reuters poll points to a rebound across Gulf economies in 2025, buoyed by rising oil output and aggressive diversification strategies. Saudi Arabia is expected to grow 3.8%, up from 1.3% in 2024, and the UAE is forecasted to rise 4.8%. Qatar’s economy is projected to grow 2.7% in 2025, jumping to 5.4% in 2026
Gulf Economies Set to Surge—Driven by Diversification and Oil Production Read More »