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Syria’s banking sector entered 2026 with a clearer legal path to global reintegration and recovery, although liquidity, capital quality and depositor confidence have yet to return to levels needed for growth. Syria’s capital markets are showing signs of momentum as the country works to rebuild its economy and re-engage with regional and global investors. Trading value on the Damascus Securities Exchange surged to over $70m in 2024, while market capitalisation rose to $2bn by the end of 2025, pointing to rising equity valuations. The country is gradually rebuilding its energy sector as it seeks to position its oil and gas industry as an essential source for post-war reconstruction...
The government of President Nana Akufo-Addo assumed power on a promise to take “Ghana Beyond Aid”, and is pushing ahead with initiatives to formalise the economy, diversify its manufacturing base and overhaul its taxation structure. Ghana’s ability to retain fiscal discipline will be tested, with election-related expenditure expected to increase in the run-up to the 2020 poll.
Bahrain pioneered oil production in the Middle East beginning in the 1930s, establishing the region’s initial framework for the petroleum industry. Some 90 years later oil and gas operations comprise 18% of GDP, with the economy well diversified to host established financial services and industrial sectors, as well as unique tourism offerings.
The year 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Sultanate of Oman, making it the longest continually independent Arab country in modern history. The year also marks the passing of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, who died on 10 January. He is succeeded by his cousin and the former minister of culture, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said.
Foreign companies are showing interest in Myanmar’s geostrategic location, abundant natural resources and youthful population. A focus on following international best business practices and reducing the informal economy, paired with an annual GDP growth forecast at around 6% in the coming years, is setting Myanmar on a path to catch up with some regional peers.
Although Dubai has traversed some challenging economic territory over recent years the economic stimulus of Expo 2020 preparation and more stable oil prices have eased this strain in 2019, and business sentiment has improved accordingly. With the long-anticipated expo event set to take place in 2020, attention has started to focus on the important question of sustaining the current economic momentum over the medium term.
