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Growing competition in robo-advisory market to lead to further consolidation, innovation and investment
OBG
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The use of sophisticated algorithms in wealth management is leading to improved efficiency and transparency in the financial services sector, benefitting both providers and clients. In particular, so-called robo-advisory firms are disrupting the industry and helping to boost financial inclusion. Primarily concentrated in developed markets such as the US and the UK, the technology is starting…

Overview

Robust regulatory framework supports capital market activity in Qatar
OBG
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Qatari capital markets continue to play a major role in the national economy despite a gradual slowdown brought about by the slowing pace of infrastructure investment in the run-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Nonetheless, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) enjoyed a strong year in 2019, following on from the previous year, in which it was the best-performing market in the GCC, with returns of around…

Overview

Growing demand for Islamic financial services in Qatar
OBG
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Islamic financial services (IFS) are playing an increasingly important role in Qatar’s economy, and the sector is poised for growth as the gas-rich country continues to invest in infrastructure and the expansion of its energy sector. In 2019 the country’s first bank merger, between Barwa Bank and conventional lender International Bank of Qatar, created a new sharia-compliant entity with…

Overview

Qatar's insurance market driven by new regulations and wider economic growth
OBG
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It was the domestic oil boom that first gave impetus to the Qatari insurance sector in the 1950s, when protection against risk in such operations became essential. Foreign insurers dominated the landscape in the early years, but the arrival of the first domestic insurer in 1964, Qatar Insurance Company (QIC), heralded a change in direction that saw local providers begin to take control of the…

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Insurance technology taps premium growth potential in emerging markets
OBG
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Two of the biggest trends in global insurance in recent years are premium growth in emerging markets and the rising importance of technology across the supply chain. The latter has come to be referred to as insurtech, a potentially disruptive trend that heralds both threats to and opportunities for incumbents and newcomers alike. While technological solutions are being applied along the length…

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To expand access to energy in underserved regions, governments must choose between traditional or new sources of power
OBG
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The duel aims of rapidly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing greater access to energy for underserved regions of the world are proving to be a complex challenge in need of innovative solutions and major investment. Repeated warnings from scientists regarding the economic and environmental consequences of unabated carbon emissions have seen the topic of climate change increasingly…

Overview

Qatar to greatly expand production of liquefied natural gas
OBG
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As of early 2020 Qatar’s energy sector was on the threshold of major expansion plans that will allow it to benefit from growing global demand for cleaner sources of power generation. Although it is facing increasing competition from other suppliers, Qatar has been the world’s leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for some time. The country is gearing up for a significant 64%…

Overview

Public and private utilities companies partner to boost sustainable development in Qatar
OBG
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As population expansion in Qatar becomes more muted and economic growth decelerates, the urgency surrounding additional power and water demand has eased slightly. GDP growth, none the less, continues, and government bodies are working hard to ensure there is sufficient generation capacity and transmission infrastructure to support the smooth running of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the expansion…

Overview

Industrial diversification to enhance Qatar's competitiveness and self-sufficiency
OBG
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Qatar’s industrial sector has the potential to play a pivotal role in economic diversification, with both heavy and light manufacturing in a position to benefit from major milestones ahead. These include the 2022 FIFA World Cup; the opening of the Middle East’s largest petrochemicals complex, which is expected to come on-line in 2025; and the planned expansion of the North Field – the…

Overview

Small and medium-sized enterprises key to global industrial growth
OBG
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Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) drive economic growth and employment, accounting for an average of 33% of GDP and 45% of the workforce in high-income countries, and over 60% of GDP and 70% of employment in developing economies. Their rise has been crucial to economic diversification and resilience, particularly in countries vulnerable to commodity price fluctuations. SMEs have also…