Analysis

Rapid credit growth in Turkey leads to growing ratio of bad debt and NPLs in the banking sector
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As the IMF and others have noted, the Turkish banking system’s non-performing loan (NPL) ratio is relatively low, despite the recent economic slowdown and foreign exchange risk. The ratio varies across the sector, however, with some banks more susceptible than others. While NPLs are not high by regional standards – and even by those of some eurozone members – and are well-provisioned, analysts…

Analysis

Turkey's banks well-capitalised despite large foreign currency liabilities and negative ratings outlook
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International ratings agencies keep a close eye on Turkey’s banking sector, given its size and importance, and the penetration of major foreign investors. Ratings movements can affect the borrowing costs of Turkish financial institutions and, at a time when Turkish banks have taken on substantial foreign debt, can be a gauge of the borrowing costs they are likely to bear. Political Risk In April…

Analysis

Turkey's private pensions getting a boost from government matching of contributions
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Private pensions showed significant growth in Turkey over the course of 2013 and 2014, following implementation of a new law that introduced government matching of contributions for private pension. With the new law, designed as an incentive scheme to encourage more contributions into the system, as of January 1, 2013 the government matches 25% of individual contributions to the pension system. Over…

Analysis

Turkey's government seeks to develop takaful insurance by launching state-owned Islamic banks
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Sharia-compliant insurance, or takaful, is set to grow in Turkey, with its predominantly Muslim population showing increasing interest in Islamic finance products and the government keen to support their growth. Insurance of any kind can be a hard sell in Turkey, with the population generally averse to insurance cover and penetration levels as low as 1.4%, according to some estimates. Takaful also…

Analysis

Turkey's automotive sector sees increase in investment, output and exports
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While the economic downturn in neighbouring Europe affected Turkey’s automotive industry negatively in the years after 2008 – as its largest export market shrank – 2013 saw some signs of a recovery north of the border, with a concomitant boost to European sales. European car sales grew in 2014 and early 2015, with the vast majority of Turkey’s automotive exports destined for the EU. Now, the…

Analysis

Turkey's defence sector to boost exports as it transitions from arms procurement to manufacture and sale
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Turkey has seen a transformation in its defence industry in recent years, with a noticeable shift from arms procurement to arms manufacture and sales. Turkish-made defence equipment has been attracting buyers from around the world, building on growing confidence and skill in a string of related domestic sectors, from automotives to shipbuilding and aerospace. The overall aim of the country’s defence…

Analysis

Turkey's metals industry sees rising demand as it looks to locally source more raw materials
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While Turkey’s metals industry may not be globally renowned, its products are a major export and source of revenue. Indeed, a “Made in Turkey” stamp can now be found on everything from the copper wires in NASA spacecraft to the steel pots and pans in many of the world’s kitchens. The sector faces some important challenges, however, in its future development. Sourcing raw materials is one of…

Analysis

End of special consumption tax on diamonds to help liberalise Turkey's jewellery industry
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Turkey is one of the world’s top gold and jewellery exporters, sending manufactured pieces and fine precious metals and stones to many regional countries as well as further afield. The country imports a great deal of these valuable commodities and products, while its domestic market is a robust one – for both the buying and selling of gold, diamonds and jewellery. There is a large and developed…

Analysis

Turkey's retailers remain optimistic in the face of weakening consumer sentiment
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Consumer sentiment in Turkey is weakening as the pace of economic growth slows and consumers tighten their purse strings, potentially slowing the retail sector’s stellar performance in recent years. Turkish retail has been one of the most appealing sectors for investors and consumers thanks to a rapidly expanding economy and a surge in per capita disposable income. On the basis of household expenditure,…

Analysis

Turkey privatising power infrastructure to boost private sector role in electricity generation and distribution
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Turkey wants to raise the private sector’s share in the electricity market to 75% to raise government revenue, boost investment to keep up with demand and reduce the role of the state in the economy. Under legislation that existed until the start of 2013, this would have been difficult. However, the Electricity Market Law 6446, enacted in March 2013, sought to open up the sector to private investors…