Banking
From The Report: Bahrain 2013
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With its experienced workforce and historical connections to Saudi Arabia, the Bahrain banking sector has continued to be a key segment of the economy. Although retail banking in the kingdom was largely sheltered from the global economic crisis, the changing international landscape is driving financial institutions to explore new strategies, while the banking regulator is continuing efforts to strengthen the sector by focusing on the new Basel III standards, improving corporate governance and protecting consumer interests.

This chapter contains an interview with Ali Moosa, Senior Country Officer for Bahrain, JP Morgan.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Steady wins the race: New strategies are being considered for conventional and Islamic banks
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Even after half a decade of challenges – first from the global financial crisis and later from regional and internal instability – few doubts remain about the resilience of Bahrain’s banking sector. The country’s traditional role as a financial hub means the industry is robust and varied. There are banks that perform basic banking functions, such as lending retail deposits against the spread, others that offer sophisticated investment vehicles for ultra-high-net-worth individuals and…

Interview

OBG talks to Ali Moosa, Senior Country Officer for Bahrain, JP Morgan
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Interview: Ali Moosa How will upcoming GCC investments influence the wholesale market, and what specific projects do wholesale banks find most appealing? ALI MOOSA: Undoubtedly, GCC government participation plays a vital role in boosting the opportunities available to the wholesale sector. Investment boosts developing sectors and aids growth in existing non-hydrocarbons industries. They fundamentally support corporate and banking businesses, which in turn enhance the wholesale segment in…

Analysis

Licensed to bank: Mergers between retail and wholesale operations are expected as the market responds to changing conditions
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Within the realm of financial services in Bahrain, most of the attention in recent years has been on the wholesale sector, where the internationally focused nature of the business left banks relatively more exposed to the effects of the global financial crisis. In contrast, retail banks in Bahrain have been steady, continuing to serve their customers and grow their loan books. Retail banks are expecting a positive year in 2013 as projected economic growth and positive employment figures should…

Analysis

Offering support: Priority is being given to small businesses
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Credit to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is likely to be a key focus for the banking sector in 2013. This segment of the lending market is an opportunity to tap what Bahraini leaders believe is an underserved segment, while addressing the long-term priorities of the country and its economic agenda. SMEs are considered an important part of Vision 2030, the country’s long-term development strategy. The kingdom provides public support and risk-sharing through Tamkeen, the labour…