– Globally investment funds saw outflows in 2022 and ESG funds were no exception – Companies unlisted in developed markets may be undervalued due to ratings discrepancies – ESG investment to support energy transition and disaster-relief efforts – Emerging markets are prioritising ESG projects despite market turbulence As financial markets experience significant headwinds…
– Emerging financial technology sector boosts inclusion and liquidity in emerging markets – Nonbank entities compete with traditional financial institutions for market share – Cryptocurrency uptake remains strong as governments eye e-currency adoption – Remittances and informal economies provide resilience amid economic headwinds Even as the global economy grapples with…
While many established global stock markets have seen mixed performance in recent years, Kuwait’s have shown positive gains – highlighting the robust nature of its capital markets. With an economy backed by rising oil prices and a solid, well-capitalised financial sector, the country continues to see international investor interest grow. Indeed, its benchmark indices recorded positive performances…
The Kuwaiti insurance sector is undergoing a period of change and growth, as a new regulatory body finds its feet and companies emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic. Stronger oversight and a move towards greater standardisation, coupled with the continuing evolution of digital insurance technology (insurtech), are likely to see that trend continue, with the country’s crowded insurance field likely consolidating…
One of the world’s largest Islamic finance markets, Kuwait has a wide range of banking, sukuk (Islamic bonds) and takaful (Islamic insurance) entities and products on offer, with recent headwinds such as the Covid-19 pandemic proving little obstacle to the sharia-compliant sector’s continuing robust growth. Indeed, the country’s Islamic banks have been expanding faster than its conventional…
An easing of disruptions associated with the Covid-19 pandemic, a sustained increase in oil and gas receipts, and the rollout of a new law providing a framework for establishing digital offerings have given Kuwait’s banking sector a renewed confidence that has been supported by the country’s wider economic recovery. Indeed, with real GDP returning to growth in 2021 and expected by the IMF to reach…
Dialogue:Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Jaber Al Sabah and George Richani What more can local banks do to assist in Kuwait’s economic diversification, and which sectors have the most potential for accelerating diversification? SHEIKH AHMAD DUAIJ JABER AL SABAH: Banks are the backbone of Kuwait’s private sector and the economy. Although there is an economic diversification agenda in motion, the country…
Interview:Mohammad Al Osaimi In what ways are Kuwaiti capital markets becoming more attractive to foreign investors? MOHAMMAD AL OSAIMI: The Kuwaiti capital markets have been reclassified as an emerging market in the world’s leading index providers thanks to its development. Boursa Kuwait is working in collaboration with the Capital Markets Authority and Kuwait Clearing Company on various…
Interview:Abdul Wahab Al Rushood What opportunities do you see for greater collaboration between established banks and financial technology (fintech) firms? ABDUL WAHAB AL RUSHOOD: Regulatory bodies in Kuwait have been supportive and adaptive to consumer demands for digital services. Not only have they allowed established banks to provide new digital services without applying for a different…
Interview:Basel Al Haroon Where do you see potential for Kuwait’s banking industry in the coming years, and how do you expect lending to evolve amid rising interest rates? BASEL AL HAROON: Kuwait’s banking sector demonstrated its resilience during the global financial crisis and Covid-19 pandemic. The low interest-rate environment since 2020 and pandemic-related moratoriums have resulted…