Analysis

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia agreements boost transport projects
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The transport links between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have long played a crucial role in fostering economic, social and cultural ties across the Gulf region. The King Fahd Causeway has been a vital artery for trade and travel since its opening in 1986. The establishment of the King Fahd Causeway Authority in the early 2000s has led to significant upgrades, reflecting the deepening economic ties between…

Analysis

New transport technologies contribute to greener future
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With fossil fuels still powering roughly 99% of global shipping, the sector is seeking to reduce emissions through cleaner fuel sources – including methanol, ammonia and wind – that could soon see increased use. Increased Investment In August 2022 Breakthrough Energy Ventures, a coalition of private investors founded by US tech entrepreneur Bill Gates, helped Danish start-up Blue World Technologies…

Analysis

Emerging economies embrace fourth industrial revolution technologies
OBG
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Amid the backdrop of dynamic shifts in global trade patterns and technological advancement, Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence (AI) are substantially reshaping manufacturing landscapes in emerging markets. Although challenges exist for full implementation, including infrastructure and skill gaps, rapid urbanisation and a burgeoning young workforce in these countries drive demand for automation…

Analysis

Emerging markets target electric vehicle and battery production
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With electric vehicles (EVs) set to become more accessible to drivers around the world – and solid growth trends attracting public and private investment – several emerging markets are looking to expand their EV manufacturing capacity. EV uptake is essential to the global energy transition, as transport emissions grew at an annual average rate of 1.7% from 1990 to 2022, faster than any other end-use…

Analysis

Health technology closing health care gap in emerging markets
OBG
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After a surge in uptake during the Covid-19 pandemic, the telehealth industry is courting new investment to further innovation and increase access to care in emerging markets. Digital health companies raised a record $57.2bn in global venture capital funding in 2021, a 79% jump from the $32bn raised in 2020, with 30% of the total directed towards telehealth. An estimated $140bn in private sector finance…

Analysis

First Gulf-ASEAN summit supports inter-regional collaboration
OBG
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Trade between the GCC and the Association of SouthEast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has grown considerably in recent years as economies in both regions seek to capitalise on mutually beneficial opportunities, and diversify their trade and investment partners. Indeed, trade between the GCC and Asian countries classified as emerging and developing by the IMF increased 34.7% year-on-year to reach $516bn in…

Analysis

Bahrain’s Economic Recovery Plan boosts economic resilience
OBG
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Bahrain launched its Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan (ERP) in October 2021 to address the economic stresses that arose during the Covid-19 pandemic, and to keep the kingdom on track to achieve the goals of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. Workforce strengthening and job creation is one of the ERP’s five central pillars, with the government intent on cultivating a local talent pool equipped to compete…

Analysis

Bahrain harnesses artificial intelligence technology to bolster growth
OBG
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As part of ongoing efforts to diversify their economies and build a platform for sustainable future growth, MENA countries are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI). A slew of recent investment and initiatives – primarily in academia and the government, but also in the private sector – has reinvigorated interest from industry leaders around the globe in the potential for AI to strengthen…

Analysis

Bahrain's financing frameworks boost sustainability initiatives
OBG
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As Bahrain’s policymakers work to create an environment conducive to the realisation of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the kingdom’s net-zero target, businesses are aligning strategic priorities and operational practices with national environmental and socio-economic objectives. In particular, investment in clean energy and energy-efficiency solutions, as…

Analysis

Emerging markets shifting towards sustainability initiatives
OBG
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Impact investment – which is designed to generate tangible social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns – presents promising risk-adjusted prospects. This type of investment not only provides value for investors, but can also greatly advance progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. A Maturing Sector Impact investing continues to expand in both depth and sophistication,…