Note: The insights below were first published in the December 2025 issue of the Union of Investment Companies' The Investor Magazine which highlights the significant importance of liquidity in helping capital markets thrive, and the invisible yet invaluable role of market makers in making sure it happens. We’re grateful to have been invited once again to contribute to their publication…
Micro-sized and small enterprises (MSEs) and freelancers are expanding rapidly in Saudi Arabia, contributing to employment generation, economic diversification and the Kingdom’s competitiveness. MSEs, freelancers and start-ups play a particularly important role in peripheral areas – they may be a backbone of the economy in smaller cities, towns and remote regions. As digital platforms…
On adopting policies centred on stability and economic recovery How will banks recalibrate foreign exchange (FX) pricing and liquidity management after the pound partially retracted from its April 2025 peak? AHMAD JAMAL ZIDAN: The FX market is clearly shifting towards more market-driven pricing. Banks have already begun adapting their models to reflect real supply and demand dynamics rather…
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy places digital transformation at the centre of economic diversification. Financial technology (fintech) solutions, particularly digital payments, are helping to expand financial inclusion, stimulate innovation and strengthen the private sector’s contribution to national development.This publication analyses the evolution of the Kingdom’s fintech ecosystem,…
Kuwait is strengthening its role in the GCC’s transition towards sustainable finance and low-carbon economic growth, in line with Kuwait Vision 2035 and regional environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. The country’s financial sector is expanding green lending, sustainability reporting and climate-related investment frameworks, contributing to the GCC’s broader drive towards…
The MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival is the region’s expanded premier platform for innovation, collaboration and transformation in the financial & insurance technology sector. The 2025 edition will focus on “Driving the Future of Finance & Insurance: Innovation, Inclusion, and Sustainability”, bringing together industry professionals to explore the latest trends and opportunities…
On reinforcing investor confidence by developing a functioning interbank market and deepening financial intermediation To what extent are international precedents and multilateral guidance informing Syria’s reform roadmap and the sequencing of structural changes? ABDULKADER ALHUSSRIEH:We are learning from international experiences and being advised on implementation by the IMF. These…
Interview: Abdulla Mohammed Al Ansari, CEO, Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), on fostering a more attractive market environment What role do environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations play in shaping investment strategies in Qatar’s capital markets? ABDULLA MOHAMMED AL ANSARI: Sustainability remains an essential factor for financial markets, which are beginning to perceive ESG not…
Interview: Jassim Al Moftah, CEO, Doha Insurance Group (DIG), on helping companies increase their resilience to economic shocks To what extent will the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics influence risk assessment and underwriting practices? JASSIM AL MOFTAH: AI and big data analytics are poised to have a significant impact on the Qatari insurance market. We have already…
