WEEKLY MARKET WATCH. Credit Libanais ISSUE NO. 263 NOVEMBER 8 TH 2010 NOVEMBER 13 TH 2010 ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "WEEKLY MARKET WATCH. Credit Libanais ISSUE NO. 263 NOVEMBER 8 TH 2010 NOVEMBER 13 TH 2010 ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT"

Transcription

1 WEEKLY MARKET WATCH ISSUE NO. 263 NOVEMBER 8 TH 20 NOVEMBER 13 TH 20 ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT Credit Libanais

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS LEBANON NEWS ECONOMIC INSIGHTS > Lebanon Ranks First in the Middle East and Africa Region in Overall Entrepreneurial Activity 1 > Bayt.com Releases October 20 Middle East Jobs Index Survey 2 > The President of the ABL Praises the Solidity of the Lebanese Economy 3 > Lebanon s Consumer Price Index in September 20 3 > The Lebanese Banking Sector in September 20 4 > Beirut Port Activity Through October 20 5 > MOF Aid Coordination Newsletter Update 5 > Lebanon s Coincident Indicator in August 20 5 LEBANON RANKS FIRST IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA REGION IN OVERALL ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY MasterCard positioned Lebanon in the first place in the Middle East and Africa region along with Morocco in terms of Overall Entrepreneurial Activity, with 31% of Lebanese and Moroccans being involved in entrepreneurial activities. CORPORATE NEWS > Credit Libanais has Successfully Closed a $75 Million Subordinated Bonds Issue 6 > Kafalat Loans Through October 20 6 MONETARY PERFORMANCE & PUBLIC FINANCE > Monetary Aggregates 7 > Money Markets 7 > Public Debt in September 20 8 FOREIGN EXCHANGE & FIXED INCOME > Foreign Exchange 9 > Fixed Income LEBANESE EQUITIES & GDRs > Lebanese Equities & Credit Libanais Indices 11 > Lebanese GDRs 12 Lebanon's Economic & Financial Sector Indicators 13 Lebanon s Ratings 14 ARAB NEWS > Regional Stock Market Indices 15 > The Egyptian Stock Exchange 15 > The Saudi Stock Exchange 15 > The Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange 16 > The Bahraini Stock Exchange 16 > World Bank Assigns Saudi Arabia Best Place to Do Business in the MENA Region 16 BAYT.COM RELEASES OCTOBER 20 MIDDLE EAST JOBS INDEX SURVEY According to Bayt.com, the overall job market in the Middle East region is expected to remain steady in the upcoming three months, with 54% of surveyed companies affirming or at least pointing out to the possibility of hiring someone in the aforementioned period. THE LEBANESE BANKING SECTOR IN SEPTEMBER 20 The consolidated balance sheet of commercial banks in Lebanon rose by 1.16% on a monthly basis to LBP 191,065 billion ($ billion) as at the end of September 20. WORLD BANK ASSIGNS SAUDI ARABIA BEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS IN THE MENA REGION According to the World Bank s Doing Business 2011 report, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranks 11 th among the 183 covered countries, and is considered as the best place to do business in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for the year. ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT SOFIL CENTER BEIRUT - LEBANON TEL: /9 FAX:

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS (CTD.) U.S. MARKETS > Jobless Claims in the First Week of November > Trade Gap in September > Budget Deficit in October > U.S. Treasury 17 > U.S. Market Indices 17 BUDGET DEFICIT IN OCTOBER 20 According to the U.S. Treasury Department, the U.S budget deficit tightened by a significant 20% on an annual basis to $140 billion in October 20, down from $176 billion a year earlier. ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT SOFIL CENTER BEIRUT - LEBANON TEL: /9 FAX:

4 SYNOPSIS OF TERMS "BDL" "ABL" "MOF" "BOP" "IMF" "Moody's" "BSE" "GDRs" "M1" "M2" "M3" "M4" "CPI" "PPI" "CLASI" "CLFI" "CLCI" EIU "P/E" "P/BV" "YTD" "YTD Price Performance" "Forex" "LBP" "USD" "Yen" "GBP" "CHF" "Y-O-Y" "GDP" "MENA" "FOMC" LE SAR AED BD Banque Du Liban Association of Banks in Lebanon The Lebanese Ministry of Finance Balance of Payment The International Monetary Fund Moody's Investors Service Beirut Stock Exchange Global Depositary Receipts Currency in Circulation + Demand Deposits in LBP M1 + Other Deposits in LBP M2 + Deposits in Foreign Currencies M3+ Treasury Bills Held By Non Banking System, Including Accrued Interests Consumer Price Index Producer Price Index Credit Libanais Aggregate Stock Index Credit Libanais Financial Sector Stock Index Credit Libanais Construction Sector Stock Index Economist Intelligence Unit Price to Earnings Multiple Price to Book Multiple Year To Date Yield to Date Price Appreciation Foreign Exchange The Lebanese Pound The United States Dollar The Japanese Yen The British Pound/ Sterling Pound The Swiss Franc Year-On-Year Gross Domestic Product Middle East and North Africa Federal Open Market Committee Livre Egyptienne Egyptian Pound Saudi Arabian Riyal United Arab Emirates Dirham Bahraini Dinar ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT SOFIL CENTER BEIRUT - LEBANON TEL: /9 FAX:

5 ECONOMIC INSIGHTS LEBANON RANKS FIRST IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA REGION IN OVERALL ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY MasterCard has published early this month the Women-Owned SMEs in Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa: An Assessment of the Business Environment report, in which it analyses the contribution of women entrepreneurs in the economy in 24 countries in the Asia/Pacific and Middle East and Africa region (APMEA). The report indicated that women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contribute significantly to the welfare of the economies and improve women s quality of life. More particularly, the report stated that women-owned SMEs play a major role in reducing gender inequality in the labor market given that women entrepreneurs have a tendency towards employing women. In addition, the report mentioned that womenowned SMEs have better credit rating and loan repayment. As far as the Middle East and Africa region is concerned, Egypt proved to have the highest number of women-owned SMEs (158,500 in 2007), followed by South Africa (138,000 in 2009), Morocco (15,700 in 2007), UAE (2,400 in 2005) and Qatar (0 in 2004) on a respective basis. As for Lebanon, the report noted that women-owned SMEs are mainly concentrated in small businesses, yet some women s divergence towards male-dominated sectors such as engineering and industry has been evidenced lately. Furthermore, the report highlighted that almost half (48.7%) of 230 Lebanese businesswomen owned SMEs in 2007, the majority of whom financed their activities through reinvesting business earnings, 28.4% through private sources (savings, loans from friends, etc.) and 20% through loans from banks or financial institutions. Nevertheless, the report noted that women-owned SMEs in Lebanon need support in terms of market exposure, technical know-how, innovation, etc. Moreover, the report positioned Lebanon in the first place in the Middle East and Africa region along with Morocco in terms of Overall Entrepreneurial Activity with 31% of Lebanese and Moroccans being involved in entrepreneurial activities. Nevertheless, the report indicated that Lebanon enjoys a low rate of working females as a percentage of the female population (22.6%), among the lowest in the Middle East and Africa region. Overall Entrepreneurial Activity (% Latest Year) Women Employees as % of Working Females (%, Latest Year) Working Females to Female Population > 15 years old (%, Latest Year) Saudi Arabia 8.8 NA 18.0 UAE South Africa Qatar NA Kuwait NA Kenya NA NA 67.3 Egypt Lebanon Nigeria NA NA 37.4 Morocco Source: M asterintelligence - "Women-Owned SM Es in Asia/Pacific, M iddle East and Africa: an Assessment of the Business Environment" Overall Entrepreneurial Activity Women Employment Opportunities Lebanon s Overall Entrepreneurial Activity Lebanon News Morocco Lebanon HIGH 31.0% Egypt % 81.6% South Africa 7.3 LOW HIGH UAE Saudi Arabia Working Females as % of Female Population (15+) Female Employees as % of Working Females Employment Opportunities for Women MASTER INTELLIGENCE 1

6 BAYT.COM RELEASES OCTOBER 20 MIDDLE EAST JOBS INDEX SURVEY ECONOMIC INSIGHTS According to the October 20 issue of the Middle East Jobs Index Survey published by Bayt.com, one of the leading job sites in the Middle East region, the overall job market in the Middle East region is expected to remain steady in the upcoming three months with some 54% of surveyed companies affirming or at least pointing out to the possibility of hiring someone in the aforementioned period, with the same percentage recorded in the previous quarter. More particularly, 25% of the surveyed managers indicated that they would be definitely hiring in the upcoming three-month period while 29% assumed some probability of hiring. Moreover, the report indicated that things look somehow brighter on the long-term perspective, with some 29% of the respondents falling into the definitely hiring category and some 40% reflecting some probability of hiring. As far as Lebanon is concerned, recruitment activity is projected to remain steady projected at a rate of 22% over the upcoming three months. Nevertheless, the job market in Lebanon is expected to witness a slight slowdown in the long run with 29% of the surveyed companies affirming that they will be definitely hiring over the coming one-year period in comparison with 30% over the past quarter. Academic wise, the survey revealed that most employers seek graduates in the business management spectrum in each of Lebanon (38%), Saudi Arabia (29%), Algeria (33%), Bahrain (37%), Pakistan (38%) and the UAE (29%). On the personal skills front, communication and teamwork skills are among the key selection criteria when hiring in Lebanon with employers assigning teamwork and good communication skills respective weights of 61% and 52%. The following section unveils Lebanon s hiring preferences in the upcoming three-month and one-year periods along with the favorite academic and personal skills qualifications: Hiring Preferences in Lebanon for the Three-Month Period Ranging between Aug 20- Oct 20 Nov 20- Jan 2011 Change Definitely Hiring 22% 22% Probably Hiring 39% 30% Probably Not Hiring 5% % Defenitely Not Hiring 6% 3% Don't Know 28% 28% Source: Bayt.com Hiring Preferences in Lebanon for the One-Year Period Ranging between Aug 20- Oct 20- Change Aug 2011 Oct 2011 Definitely Hiring 30% 29% Probably Hiring 41% 43% Probably Not Hiring 1% 4% Defenitely Not Hiring 5% 7% Don't Know 22% 18% Source: Bayt.com Hiring Preference in Lebanon in the Upcoming Three Months Nov - Jan 11 Defenitely Not Hiring 3% Don't Know 28% Defenitely Not Hiring, 7% Probably Not Hiring, 4% Probably Not Hiring % Definitely Hiring 22% Probably Hiring 30% Hiring Preference in Lebanon in the Upcoming Year Oct -Oct 11 Don't Know, 18% Probably Hiring, 43% Definitely Hiring, 29% Lebanon News Academic Preference For Lebanese Employers Personal Skills Preference For Employers (Lebanon) Computer Science Qualifications 22 Productivity 41 Engineering Graduation Administrative Qualifications Honesty Leadership Skills Ability to Work Under Pressure Commerce Graduations 24 Teamwork Abilities 52 Business Management Graduation 26 Good Communications Skills BAYT.COM 2

7 THE PRESIDENT OF THE ABL PRAISES THE SOLIDITY OF THE LEBANESE ECONOMY ECONOMIC INSIGHTS The President of the Association of Banks in Lebanon (ABL) Dr. Joseph Torbey praised the solidity of the Lebanese economy despite the various local, regional, and international instabilities during the inauguration of The Lebanese Banks Day in London on November, 20. According to Dr. Torbey, said solidity is primarily attributed to the prevailing confidence in the Lebanese economy, with transfers towards Lebanon exceeding the $13.3 billion mark and capital inflows surpassing the $28.4 billion bar since the year The President of the ABL also highlighted that the ongoing capital inflows have a major role in alleviating the country s $13 billion deficit and improving its balance of payment, which recorded a $16 billion surplus after the year 2007, lifting as such Lebanon s net foreign assets. Dr. Torbey pointed out that Lebanon has accumulated unprecedented high levels of foreign currency reserves, covering as such 43% of the broad money, 70% of foreign currency deposits, and more than 86% of the country s short-term external debt. Furthermore, Dr. Torbey stated that Lebanese banks consolidated balance sheet has reached around $133 billion till present, representing 3.5 times the country s GDP, which is estimated at $38 billion by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In this context, the President of the ABL praised Banque Du Liban s stringent policies, the Lebanese Banking Control Commission s close monitoring, and the constant communication and cooperation with the ABL, which contributed to the astounding performance of the sector, particularly on the liquidity and capital adequacy fronts. Concurrently, Dr. Torbey expressed the Lebanese banks eagerness to abide by the Basel III requirements, highlighting the sector s abidance by the Basel I and II requirements and other international standards, its efficient risk management practices, and diversified deposits portfolio. On the investment front, Dr. Torbey deemed Lebanon as attractive to foreign investors, with a relatively moderate tax environment, a strict banking secrecy law, a qualified and skilled labor force, and a liberalized economy. LEBANON S CONSUMER PRICE INDEX IN SEPTEMBER 20 According to the Central Administration of Statistics (CAS), Lebanon witnessed a moderate appreciation in the average price of a Lebanese-consumer good-basket, with the consumer price index (CPI), which is an indicative measure of inflation, rising by 5.05% on an annual basis to in September 20, up from in September Concurrently, Lebanon s CPI rose by 2.48% on a monthly basis from a reading of in the month of August Evolution of Lebanon's Consumer Price Index 2.50% 2.00% 1.50% 1.00% 0.50% 0.00% -0.50% -1.00% -1.50% Lebanon News Sep-09 Oct-09 Nov-09 Dec-09 Jan- Feb- Mar- Apr- May- Jun- Jul- Aug- Sep- Consumer Price Index CPI (%) ALMUSTAQBAL, THE ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON (ABL) 3

8 ECONOMIC INSIGHTS THE LEBANESE BANKING SECTOR IN SEPTEMBER 20 The consolidated balance sheet of commercial banks in Lebanon rose by 1.16% on a monthly basis to LBP 191,065 billion ($ billion) as at the end of September 20, up from LBP 188,877 billion ($ billion) in August. This owes to a 1.40% rise in commercial banks deposits at the Central Bank to LBP 59,831 billion ($39.69 billion) coupled with a 1.84% increase in loans to the resident private sector to LBP 43,507 billion ($28.86 billion). On an annual basis, total banking sector assets have expanded by 15.33%, from LBP 165,671 billion ($9.90 billion) in September USD Billion Sept-04 Sep-05 Sep-06 Sep-07 Sep-08 Sep-09 Sep- Total Assets Loans Deposits Total Dollarization Rate (Private & Public) 66.78% 71.99% 73.61% 76.40% 71.18% 65.17% 61.78% Loans/Deposits Ratio 29.27% 28.43% 28.43% 25.96% 27.57% 25.39% 27.44% Source: The Association of Banks in Lebanon Evolution of Commercial Banks' Consolidated Assets Concurrently, consolidated customer deposits firmed at LBP 158,553 billion ($5.18 billion) as at the end of the third quarter of 20, with the deposits dollarization rate (public and private sector) sustaining its downturn to settle at 61.78%, down from 61.84% in August, substantially below the 65.17% rate registered during the same period last year. On the lending front, commercial banks consolidated lending activity to the private sector reached LBP 43,507 billion ($28.86 billion), up from LBP 35,285 billion ($23.41 billion) in the preceding year. Concurrently, the loans to deposits ratio reached 27.44%, up from 25.39% last year USD Billion Activity In The Lebanese Banking Sector CAGR: 11.82% Sept-04 Sep-05 Sep-06 Sep-07 Sep-08 Sep-09 Sep- Sept-04 Sep-05 Sep-06 Sep-07 Sep-08 Sep-09 Sep % 80.00% 70.00% 60.00% 50.00% 40.00% 30.00% 20.00%.00% 0.00% Lebanon News Loans (USD Billion) Deposits (USD Billion) Dollarization Rate (Deposits) Loans/Deposits Ratio THE ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON (ABL) 4

9 ECONOMIC INSIGHTS BEIRUT PORT ACTIVITY THROUGH OCTOBER 20 The Beirut port freight activity was up by 4.15% y-o-y reaching 5,492 thousand tons through October 20 in comparison with 5,274 thousand tons as at the end of October During the month of October alone, freight activity rose by 4.94% year-on-year to 78,034 tons. On the other hand, the number of vessels fell by 3.40% to 1,934 vessels by the end of October 20, down from 2,002 a year earlier, while the number of containers shed 3.94% to 805,888 containers, down from 82,240 a year earlier. This is further sketched by the following table: Indicators For The Ten-Month Period Ending Oct-09 Oct- % Change Freight Activity (000 Tons) 5,274 5, % Number of Vessels 2,002 1, % Number of Imported Cars 82,240 81, % Number of Containers 838, , % Source: Beirut Port, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit MOF AID COORDINATION NEWSLETTER UPDATE According to the Ministry of Finance ( MOF ) Aid Coordination Newsletter number 36 published by the Lebanese Ministry of Finance ("MOF"), the aggregate value of agreements (signed and disbursed) with international donors reached 194,000 and $200,000 in October 20 broken down as follows: YOY 194,000 grant agreement signed by the Italian Development Cooperation Office geared towards financing the conservation and refurbishment of the Roman Tomb of Tyr. Said project will be accomplished by an Italian expert, an Italian restorer and a Lebanese team of skilled restorers; and $200,000 grant agreement by the United States to the humanitarian organization Mines Advisory Group (MAG) aiming at financing demining projects. Donor Support During the Month of October 20 Donor Amount Aim Italy 194,000 Financing the conservation and refurbishment of the Roman Tomb of Tyr United States $200,000 Financing demining projects Source: The Lebanese M inistry of Finance LEBANON S COINCIDENT INDICATOR IN AUGUST 20 Banque Du Liban s coincident indicator, which is an indicative measure of economic activity, fell by 9.37% during the month of August to a reading of 228.3, down from in July 20. The coincident indicator, however, posted a 3.49% annual appreciation from a year ago, thus portraying a moderate improvement in Lebanon s key macroeconomic indicators. Evolution of Lebanon's Coincident Indicator Lebanon News PORT OF BEIRUT, THE LEBANESE MINISTRY OF FINANCE, ABL 5

10 CORPORATE NEWS CREDIT LIBANAIS HAS SUCCESSFULLY CLOSED A $75 MILLION SUBORDINATED BONDS ISSUE Credit Libanais Bank S.A.L has successfully closed a $75 million subordinated bonds issue (classified under Tier II capital) on November 11, 20. The bonds bear an annual coupon rate of 6.75%, payable annually with the interest payments subject to a 5% withholding tax rate. Credit Libanais Investment Bank S.A.L, the investment arm of Credit Libanais S.A.L, acted as deal arranger to the subordinated debt issue. The bonds mature on January 2018, with an issue price of 0% of the principal amount of the bonds. The issue was about 1.5 times oversubscribed with subscriptions restricted to local demand. KAFALAT LOANS THROUGH OCTOBER 20 The number of guarantees issued by the government-subsidized program KAFALAT rose to 1,189 through October 20 in comparison with 852 guarantees a year earlier. The face value of said guarantees reached LBP billion ($141.4 million) with the average value per guarantee shedding to LBP 179 million ($119.0 thousands) down from LBP 201 million ($136.6 thousands) in the same period last year. The substantial majority (45.16%) of issued Kafalat loans was allocated over the agricultural sector, followed by the industrial (37.43%) and tourism (14.30%) sectors. Kafalat Loans by Sector During The Ten-Month Period Ending y-o-y Oct-09 Oct- % Change Agriculture % Industry % Tourism % Others % Total 852 1, % Value of Guarantees ($million) % Average Value per Guarantee ($ 000) % Source: Kafalat, Credit Libanais Research Unit On the other hand, the breakdown of Kafalat loans by region depicts a heavy concentration in the Beirut and Mount Lebanon region, accounting for 47.27% of total issued Kafalat loans up to October 20, followed by the South and Nabatieh (21.87%), Bekaa (18.67%) and North (12.20%) regions. Kafalat Loans by Region During The Ten-Month Period Ending y-o-y Oct-09 Oct- % Change Beirut & Mount Lebanon % South & Nabatieh % Bekaa % North % Total 852 1, % Source: Kafalat, Credit Libanais Research Unit Breakdown of Kafalat Loans By Sector Through October 20 Tourism 14.30% Industry 37.43% Others 3.11% Agriculture 45.16% Breakdown of Kafalat Loans By Region Through October 20 Bekaa 18.67% South & Nabatieh 21.87% North 12.20% Beirut & Mount Lebanon 47.27% Lebanon News KAFALAT, CREDIT LIBANAIS 6

11 MONETARY AGGREGATES On the monetary front, all monetary aggregates closed on a positive note during the week of October 28. The overall money supply M4 rose by $ million on a weekly basis to $94.94 billion, with a $42.45 million expansion in non-banking sector treasury bills. On the other hand, Lebanese-pound denominated deposits and currency in circulation M1 rose by 2.26% for the week to $3.36 billion owing to a $5.47 million increase in demand deposits, outweighing as such the $31.18 million drop in money in circulation. Local currency term deposits, M2, inched down by 0.30% on a weekly basis while soaring by 19.71% on an annual basis to $38.64 billion. Consequently, private sector term and saving deposits denominated in LBP ( M2-M1 ) widened by a shy $41.11 million to $35.29 billion with deposits denominated in foreign currencies ( M3 M2 ) firming at $51.08 billion. MONEY MARKETS On the money market front, the November 4 th Treasury bill auction raised LBP billion, up from LBP billion the week before. The auction resulted in a surplus over nominal subscription of LBP billion in comparison with a surplus of LBP billion in the preceding week. The bulk of the subscriptions was concentrated in the three-year to maturity T-bills, constituting alone around 93.38% of total aggregate subscriptions, followed by the one-year (4.76%) and two-year (1.86%) to maturity securities. The weighted average yield on Lebanese Pound Treasury bills fell to 5.88% during the November 4 th auction in comparison with 5.91% during the latest auction of same maturities held on the 21 st of October 20. This is mainly attributed to the declining subscription share in the higher yielding three-year to maturity T-bills, from 97.04% of total face value during the October 21 st auction to 93.38% during the November 4 th auction. More particularly, the one-year to maturity T-bills yield rose by 2 basis points to 4.81% while the two-year and one-year T-bills yields remained flat at 5.94% and 5.34% respectively. Lebanese Treasury Bills October 28 Auction Yield (%) Face Value (in billions of LBP) % of Total Face Value MONETARY PERFORMANCE Money Supply October 21, 20 October 28, 20 % Change USD Million M1 3,280 3, % M2 38,529 38, % M3 89,612 89, % M4 94,786 94, % M2-M1 35,249 35, % M3-M2 51,083 51, % Source: Banque Du Liban, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit 7.00% 6.00% 5.00% 4.00% 3.00% 2.00% 1.00% 0.00% Lebanese Treasury Bills 86,000 66,000 46,000 26,000 6,000 3 Months Money Supply - USD Million - 94,786 94,935 89,612 89,719 October 21, 20 M4 6 Months 12 Months October 28, 20 M3 On The Run Yield Curve 24 Months 36 Months 60 Months November 4 Auction Yield (%) Face Value (in billions of LBP) % of Total Face Value Monetary Performance 3 Months 3.93% % 12 Months 4.81% % 6 Months 4.52% % 24 Months 5.34% % 60 Months 6.18% % 36 Months 5.94% % Total % Total % Source: Reuters, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit As for the latest auction dated November 11, 20, the following table spots the light on the evolution of yields by maturity: Certificates Of Deposits 45 Days 60 Days Interest Rate/Period 3.57% 3.85% Lebanese Treasury Bills 3 Months 6 Months 12 Months 24 Months 36 Months 60 Months Treasury Yield 3.93% 4.52% 4.81% 5.34% 5.94% 6.18% BANQUE DU LIBAN, REUTERS 7

12 PUBLIC FINANCE PUBLIC DEBT IN SEPTEMBER 20 On the public finance front, Lebanon s gross public debt rose by 3.44% during the one-year period ending September 20 to $50.85 billion, up from $49.16 billion in September 2009, according to the latest statistics published by the Association of Banks in Lebanon. Domestic debt, which constitutes 58.74% of gross public debt, grew by 7.28% to $29.87 billion, with external debt shedding by 1.58% to $20.98 billion. When factoring out public sector deposits, which added 11.60% to $6.21 billion, net public debt rose by a moderate 2.39% to $44.64 billion. Public Debt (USD Billion) September 2009 September 20 YOY % Change Gross Public Debt % Domestic Debt % External Debt % Public Sector Deposits % Net Public Debt % Source: The Association of Banks in Lebanon, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit External Debt 41.26% Composition of Gross Public Debt in September 20 Domestic Debt 58.74% It is worth highlighting that Lebanon s net public debt has been accumulating steam at a compounded annual growth rate of 5.41% p.a. over the seven-year period ending September 20, from $32.55 billion in September 2004, as captured by the chart below. Billions of USD Sept- 04 Evolution of Net Public Debt CAGR:5.41% Sept- 05 Sept- 06 Sept- 07 Sept- 08 Sept- 09 Sept- Public Finance THE ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON (ABL) 8

13 FOREIGN EXCHANGE FOREIGN EXCHANGE Domestically, demand for the higher yielding Lebanese Pound sustained its healthy momentum in spite of the prevailing political tensions. The inter-bank trading range hovered between LBP 1,500.5 and LBP 1, In mid Friday session, the Euro appreciated by 0.20% against the U.S. Dollar for the day to $ after having hovered between $ and $ On a weekly basis, the Euro currency depreciated by 2.42% against the U.S. Dollar to $1.3691, recording its worst week since the month of August. The Euro s losing streak is mainly attributed to investors worries regarding Ireland s public finances, with Ireland expected to have difficulties to reimburse its debts, and to have recourse to financial assistance. It is worth noting that the Euro currency neared a six-week low against the Dollar during the past week. The U.S. Dollar headed north against the Japanese Yen, gaining some 1.54% for the week to a market close of Yen. The Dollar traded between a range of and against the Yen on Friday, ending the day at Yen. The Dollar s gaining streak against the Yen comes as a result of the rise in U.S. Treasury bond yields. Nevertheless, the outlook regarding the performance of the U.S. Dollar remains blurry, with a relatively high inflation rate, and uncertainty regarding any further monetary intervention by the Federal Reserves, among others. The Sterling Pound (GBP) depreciated by 0.27% against the U.S. Dollar for the week. The British Pound was trading between $ and $1.6183, before ending the week at $ in New York session. The Sterling Pound s losing momentum is mainly attributed to the recurring debt worries in the Euro zone, with the possibility of monetary easing in the U.K. rising during the past week. Fears regarding Ireland s public finances seemed to affect the Sterling Pound as well, with some U.K. banks being exposed to Ireland s hefty debt burden. It is worth noting, however, that the Sterling Pound neared a seven-week high against the Euro currency during the past week. Major Currencies Previous Last % Change Major Currencies Previous Last % Change EUR/USD % USD/LBP 1, , % GBP/USD % EUR/LBP 2, , % USD/JPY % CAD/LBP 1, , % USD/CHF % CHF/LBP 1, , % USD/CAD % GBP/LBP 2, , % Major Crosses EUR GBP CHF JPY CAD Gold Gold & Silver Silver (in USD) Silver EUR Gold kg 995 Ounce Kg Ounce GBP , , CHF World Interest rates levels JPY Period USD GBP CHF JPY CAD EUR CAD O/N M onth USD Libor (%) Previous Last 3 M onths Month M onths Month Year Years Month Years Year Years Source: Banque du Liban, Credit Libanais Forex Department, Reuters Foreign Exchange CREDIT LIBANAIS ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT, ACTION FOREX 9

14 FIXED INCOME FIXED INCOME The Lebanese Ministry of Finance has successfully closed a new Republic of Lebanon (ROL) Eurobond issue raising $725 million in the aggregate. The new Eurobond issue is allocated over 2 tranches, an eight-year tranche with total subscriptions of $500 million, maturing in 2018 and bearing an annual coupon rate of 5.15% payable semi-annually and a twelve-year tranche with total subscriptions of $225 million, maturing in 2022 and carrying an annual coupon rate of 6.1% payable semi-annually. In this perspective, the eight-year tranche was 5 times oversubscribed while the twelve-year tranche was 2.5 times oversubscribed. The new ROL Eurobond issue was 74.4% allocated domestically with the remaining 25.6% allocated to international investors. It is worth noting that the ROL Eurobond issue was managed by Credit Suisse Group AG and Bank Of Beirut. On the Lebanese Eurobond market front, the new issue traded below the offer price with some selling being witnessed on the long end of the curve. Spreads tightened to basis points during the week of Friday November 12, 20, down from basis points in the preceding week. LEBANESE EUROBONDS Lebanese Eurobonds Currency Coupon Maturity Issue Spread Bid Ask Bid Yield Bid Spread epub c o eba o US 68 5% Government o 0 Eurobonds % 6 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.880% May % 218 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.500% Aug % 226 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.500% Mar % 244 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.750% Sep % 277 Republic of Lebanon USD 9.130% Mar % 282 Republic of Lebanon USD 8.630% Jun % 289 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.380% Apr % 286 Republic of Lebanon USD 9.000% May % 285 Republic of Lebanon USD 5.875% Jan % 355 Banque Du Liban USD.000% Apr % 343 Republic of Lebanon USD 8.500% Aug % 346 Republic of Lebanon USD 8.500% Jan % 363 Republic of Lebanon USD % May % 408 Republic of Lebanon USD 9.000% Mar % 243 Republic of Lebanon USD 4.000% Dec % 195 Republic of Lebanon USD 6.375% Mar % 314 Republic of Lebanon USD 8.250% Apr % 340 Republic of Lebanon USD 7.000% Dec % 392 Republic of Lebanon USD 5.150% Nov % 258 Republic of Lebanon USD 6.0% Oct % 352 Republic of Lebanon EUR 5.880% Apr % 249 Source: Credit Libanais Capital Markets YIELD - SPREAD EVOLUTION Fixed Income Friday - October Friday - November 5 20 Friday - November Republic of Lebanon Bid Yield 4.31% 4.27% 3.89% Republic of Lebanon Bid Spread (bps) U.S. year T-Bond Yield 2.61% 2.54% 2.76% ROL Bid spread over U.S. Year T-Bond (bps) Source: Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit As portrayed by the table above, Republic of Lebanon (ROL) bid spreads over the U.S. year T-Bond fell to bps, down from bps a week earlier. Bid spreads over the entire U.S. treasury curve contracted to bps down from bps the week before, easing as such the pressure on ROL bond prices. 5.00% 4.50% 4.00% 3.50% 3.00% 2.50% 2.00% 1.50% 1.00% 0.50% 0.00% 4.31% % Friday - October Yield - Spread Evolution 4.27% % Friday - November % 2.76% Friday - November Republic of Lebanon Bid Yield U.S. year T-Bond Yield ROL Bid spread over U.S. Year T-Bond (bps) CREDIT LIBANAIS CAPITAL MARKETS, CREDIT LIBANAIS RESEARCH UNIT

15 LEBANESE EQUITIES Activity on the Beirut Stock Exchange was relatively robust last week with the number of shares traded soaring to,974,231, in comparison with 614,388 in the preceding week, thanks to block trades on Bank Audi and BLOM Bank listed shares. The Credit Libanais Aggregate Stock Index (CLASI) reversed its upturn, closing down by 0.37% for the week at 1, Four losers and two gainers were spotted during the week, decreasing market capitalization by 0.33% to $12.21 billion, from $12.25 billion a week earlier. Value traded, however, rallied to $90.66 million, up from $8.26 million a week ago, owing to the block trades on Bank Audi and BLOM Bank listed shares worth some $86.50 million. On the real estate and construction front, the price of Solidere A and B shares closed on a negative note, down by 1.61% and 1.62% to $18.39 and $18.20 respectively, dragging the Credit Libanais Construction Sector Stock Index (CLCI) down by 1.21% to In the banking sector, Bank Audi led the weekly trades with 8,032,631 shares, followed by BLOM Bank with 2,540,767 shares. The Credit Libanais Financial Sector Stock Index (CLFI) weighed in favor of the two losing banking stocks, ending the week almost flat at 1, On the international scene, Solidere GDR was the biggest gainer of the week, closing up by 1.15% at $ LEBANESE EQUITIES & GDRS Credit Libanais Previous Closing Weekly Indices 5-Nov- 12-Nov- % Change Credit Libanais Aggregate Stock Index <.CLASI> 1, , % Credit Libanais Financial Sector Stock Index <.CLFI> 1, , % Credit Libanais Construction Sector Stock Index <.CLCI> % Source: Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit Index Value 1,450 1,400 1,350 1,300 1,250 1,200 1,150 1,0 12-Nov Dec- 09 Credit Libanais Aggregate Stock Index Weekly Performance CLASI 17-Jan- 19-Feb- CLASI 0.37% 24-Mar- 26-Apr- 29-May- 01-Jul- 03-Aug- 05-Sep-.CLASI Credit Libanais Aggregate Stock Index Friday, November 12, 20 Value Daily % Chng Daily Net Chng 1, % 3.24 Yr.High Year Hi.Date Yr.Low Year.Lo.Date 1, Apr- 1, Oct- Life High Life Hi.Date Life Low Life.Lo.Date 1, Jul Mar Oct- -Nov- Lebanese Equities 1,600 Credit Libanais Financial Sector Stock Index Weekly Performance CLFI 1,600 Credit Libanais Construction Sector Stock Index Weekly Performance CLCI 1,550 1,550 1,500 1,500 Index Value 1,450 1,400 1,350 1,300 1,250 1,200 1, Nov Dec Jan- 19-Feb- 24-Mar- 26-Apr- 29-May- CLFI 0.001% 01-Jul- 03-Aug- 05-Sep- 08-Oct- -Nov- Index Value 1,450 1,400 1,350 1,300 1,250 1,200 1, Nov Dec Jan- 19-Feb- CLCI 1.21% 24-Mar- 26-Apr- 29-May- 01-Jul- 03-Aug- 05-Sep- 08-Oct- -Nov- CREDIT LIBANAIS ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT 11

16 LEBANESE EQUITIES & GDRS (CTD.) Lebanese Equities BEIRUT STOCK EXCHANGE Closing %change Weekly Total Market Leading P/E P/BV YTD Price Volume Listed Capitalisation Perf. Traded Shares ($000) Solidere A $ % 98,584 0,000,000 $1,839, % Solidere B $ % 92,660 65,000,000 $1,183, % BLC "C" Bank $ % - 50,900,000 $85, % Bank Audi Listed Shares $ % 8,032, ,189,4 $2,750, % Bank Audi GDR $ % - 1,567,6 $857, % Bank Audi Preferred "D" $ % - 12,500,000 $130, n.a n.a n.a Bank Audi Preferred "E" $ % - 1,250,000 $125, n.a n.a n.a Bank Of Beirut "C" $ % - 16,822,467 $311, % Bank Of Beirut Preferred "C" $ % - 2,920,000 $74, n.a n.a -5.54% Bank Of Beirut Preferred "D" $ % - 4,000,000 $4, n.a n.a n.a Bank Of Beirut Preferred "E" $ % - 2,400,000 $61, n.a n.a 2.00% Byblos Bank "C" $ % 178, ,491,317 $618, % Byblos Bank Priority $ % 26, ,023,723 $356, % Byblos Bank Preferred Class 2008 $ % 2,598 2,000,000 $203, n.a n.a -2.40% Byblos Bank Preferred Class 2009 $ % - 2,000,000 $201, n.a n.a 0.50% Byblos Bank GDR $ % - 1,309,078 $115, % BEMO Bank-Listed shares $ % - 5,400,000 $28, % BEMO Bank Preferred $ % - 200,000 $19, n.a n.a -0.70% BLOM Bank GDR $ % 4,327 73,896,0 $696, % BLOM Bank Listed Shares $ % 2,536, ,000,000 $1,892, % BLOM Bank Preferred "2004" $ % - 7,500,000 $78, n.a n.a % BLOM Bank Preferred "2005" $ % -,000,000 $5, n.a n.a % RYMCO $ % -,400,000 $28, % Holcim Liban $ % 2,411 19,516,040 $291, % Ciment Blancs Bearer $ % - 6,000,000 $18, % Ciment Blancs Nominal $ % - 3,000,000 $1, % Beirut Preferred Fund $ % - 325,756 $33, n.a n.a n.a GLOBAL DEPOSITORY RECEIPTS Solidere $ % 9,091,750 $167, % Audi $ % 1,567,6 $857, % BLOM $ % 73,896,0 $698, % n.a stands for not applicable Source: Beirut Stock Exchange, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit Activity Analysis Previous Last % Change Value Traded 8,255, ,657, % Volume Traded 614,388.00,974, % Market Cap - BSE 12,254,704, ,213,926, % Bank Audi emerged as the largest contributor (70.79%) to the week s traded value with a turnover ratio of 1.75%. Other active stocks include BLOM Bank shares, accounting for 24.67% of total weekly traded value, with a turnover ratio of 0.83%. Lebanese Equities Market Cap - Intl 1,708, ,722, % Source: Beirut Stock Exchange, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit The weighted average P/E and P/Bv ratios of the Beirut reversed their upturn last week, reaching.53 and 1.38 respectively, down from.62 and 1.39 during the preceding week. Evolution of Beirut Bourse Comparable Benchmarks November 5, 20 November 12, 20 P/E P/BV CREDIT LIBANAIS ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT 12

17 LEBANON S MAIN INDICATORS MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS Recap of Lebanon's Major Indicators GDP ($ Million) 19,795 21,465 21,861 22,438 25,047 29,485 33,585 Real GDP Growth Rate 4.14% 7.45% 1.% 0.60% 7.50% 8.50% 9.00% 6.00% GDP Per Capita ($) 5,559 5,949 5,988 6,059.88* 6,677* 7,616.62* 8,131.6* Net Foreign Direct Investment ($ Million) 2,997 1,993 2,624 2,675 2,731 3,606 4,300 FDI/GDP Ratio 15.14% 9.28% 12.00% 11.92%.90% 12.23% 12.80% INDUSTRY Industrial Exports ($ Million) 1,087 1,467 1,667 1,738 2,361 2,994 2,645 2,565 (7) Industrial Exports/Total Exports Ratio 71.33% 83.97% 88.67% 76.13% 83.84% 86.08% 75.92% 85.02% Import of Industrial Machinery ($ Million) (7) Import of Industrial Machinery/Total Imports Ratio 1.52% 1.51% 1.47% 1.38% 1.38% 1.17% 1.23% 1.34% TOURISM Arab Tourists Arrivals 438, , , , , , , ,500 (5) U.S. Tourists Arrivals 120, , , , , , , ,679 (5) Asia Tourists Arrivals 134, , , , , , , ,718 (5) Europe Tourists Arrivals 266, , , , , , , ,617 (5) Others Tourists Arrivals 89,153 68,872 57,295 33,659 32,154 43, ,859 0,487 (5) Total Number of Tourists 1,015,793 1,278,469 1,139,524 1,062,635 1,017,072 1,332,551 1,851,081 1,326,001 Growth in Tax-Free Spending N.A N.A 2% -15% 17% 56% 13% 23% (7) REAL ESTATE Value of Real Estate Transactions ($ Million) 2, , , , , , ,456.5 (1) Number of Real Estate Sales Transactions 48,657 52,700 51,564 51,027 67,689 85,025 86,499.0 Construction Permits (000 sqm) 7,196 7,719 7,928 7,532 7,919 14,281 11,509 11,288 (7) Cement Delivery (000 tons) 2,704 2,729 3,040 3,423 3,945 4,219 4,897 3,529 (6) TRANSPORTATION Beirut Port Activity Freight Activity(000 Tons) 4,767 5,060 4,476 4,226 5,318 5,746 5,769 5,492 (9) Number of Vessels 2,333 2,366 2,229 1,829 2,187 2,055 2,199 1,934 (9) Number of Containers 115, , , , , , , ,888 (9) Beirut Airport Activity Number of Passengers (million) 2,718,000 3,200,000 3,177,000 2,739,606 3,408,834 3,869, (7) FOREIGN TRADE Imports ($ Million) 7,168 9,397 9,340 9,398 11,815 16,137 16,242 13,189 (7) Exports ($ Million) 1,524 1,747 1,880 2,283 2,816 3,478 3,484 3,017 (7) Trade Balance ($ Million) (5,644) (7,650) (7,460) (7,115) (8,999) (12,658) (12,758) (,172) (7) Exports/Imports 21.26% 18.59% 20.13% 24.29% 23.83% 21.55% 21.45% 22.88% BALANCE OF PAYMENTS BOP at BDL and Banks & Financial Inst ($ Million) 3, ,792 2,037 3, , , (6) Foreign Assets ($ Billion) (9) PUBLIC FINANCE Government Expenditures ($ Million) 7,027 6,992 6,768 7,880 8,350 9,922 11,388 6,328 (5) Government Revenues ($ Million) 4,415 4,984 4,912 4,853 5,804 7,000 8,428 5,140 (5) Budget Deficit / Surplus ($ Million) (1,719) (817) (543) (1,688) (1,311) (789) (658) (1,189) (5) Budget Primary Deficit / Surplus ($ Million) 1,515 1,851 1,802 1,335 1,787 2,730 3,380 1,187 (5) Total Deficit ($ Million) (2,612) (2,008) (1,856) (3,027) (2,546) (2,921) (2,960) (1,189) (5) Deficit / Total Expenditures Ratio 37.17% 28.71% 27.42% 38.42% 30.49% 29.45% 25.99% 18.78% Deficit / GDP Ratio 13.20% 9.35% 8.61% 13.49%.16%.% 8.81% Debt Service / GDP Ratio 16.33% 12.43%.88% 13.47% 13.08% 12.16% N.A EDL Support / GDP Ratio % 3.92% 5.57% N.A External Debt ($ Billion) (7) Net Domestic Debt ($ Billion) (7) Net Public Debt ($ Billion) (7) Gross Public Debt/GDP Ratio % % % % % % % MONETARY AGGREGATES & INFLATION M1 ($ Billion) (8) M2 ($ Billion) (8) M3 ($ Billion) (8) M4 ($ Billion) (8) (M2-M1) ($ Billion) (8) Monetization Level (M2/GDP Ratio) 87.90% 80.27% 74.24% 69.39% 65.76% 85.55% 1.86% N.A Consumer Price Index (7) change in CPI (%) 3.00% 1.70% -2.60% 5.60% 9.30% 6.36% 4.20% 5.05% BANKING SYSTEM Number of Commercial Banks Number of Branches Number of Employees 15,714 16,281 17,480 18, Total Assets ($ Million) 59,895 67,786 70,325 76,179 82,255 94, , ,743 (7) Total Deposits ($ Million) 49,362 55,835 58,117 61,541 68,059 78,663 96,821 5,176 (7) Deposits of the Private Sector ($ Million) 48,483 54,853 56,986 60,494 67,288 77,780 95,766 3,853 (7) Deposits of the Public Sector ($ Million) ,131 1, ,055 1,323 (7) Loans to the Private Sector ($ Million) 14,929 15,934 16,230 17,201 17,753 21,062 24,259 28,860 (7) Claims on the Public Sector ($ Million) 21,006 24,156 26,696 31,192 32,424 38,314 29,063 29,182 (7) Total Shareholders Equity ($ Million) 4,530 4,941 6,172 7,688 8,555 9,858 N.A Customer Loans/ Deposits 30.24% 28.54% 27.93% 27.95% 26.08% 26.78% 25.06% 27.44% Customer Loans/Total Assets 24.93% 23.51% 23.08% 22.58% 21.58% 22.35% 21.05% 22.77% Dollarization Rate 65.02% 68.78% 71.71% 75.16% 76.46% 68.79% 63.76% 61.78% Net Interest Income ($Million) 1, , , , , , , Net Fees and Commissions Income ($Million) Net Profit - After Tax ($ Million) , , ROE 11.14%.22%.71%.98% 11.79% 13.20% 13.19% ROA 0.75% 0.68% 0.77% 0.91% 1.02% 1.13% 1.13% Exchange Rate (LBP to USD) 1, , , , , , , * Figures Reflect IMF Estimates (1) As At End of June 2009 (2) As At End of March, 20, (3) As At End of April, 20, (4) As At End of May, 20, (5) As At End of July, 20, (6) As At End of August, 20, (7) As At End of September, 20, (8) As At October 28, 20, (9) As At End of October 20 BDL, ABL, IMF, BILANBANQUES, CREDIT LIBANAIS RESEARCH UNIT 13

18 LEBANON S RATINGS Republic Of Lebanon Sovereign Ratings Rating Agency Tenor Rating Standard & Poor's Long-term B short-term B Moody's Investors Service Ltd Long-term B1 Outlook Positive Stable Fitch IBCA Ltd Long-term B Stable short-term B Source: Ministry of Finance: Debt & Debt Markets Reports, Moody's Investors Service, Standard & Poor's Lebanese Banks' Latest Ratings Rated Banks Moody's Investors Service Capital Intelligence Long Term Foreign Currency Financial Strength Outlook Long Term Foreign Currency Outlook Bank Audi-Saradar B1 D- Stable B Stable BLOM Bank B1 D- Stable B Stable Credit Libanais B Stable Byblos Bank B1 D- Stable B Stable BBAC B Stable Fransabank B Stable Bank of Beirut B1 D- Stable - - Sources: Moody's Investors Service, Capital Intellgince MOF, MOODY S, CAPITAL INTELLIGENCE, CREDIT LIBANAIS ECONOMIC RESEARCH UNIT 14

19 ARAB MARKETS ARAB MARKETS REGIONAL STOCK MARKET INDICES The table on the right hand side sheds the light on the weekly performance of major Arab stock market indices in the region during the week ended November 11, 20: REGIONAL STOCK MARKET INDICES Country Index P revious Last Net Change %Change Lebanon.CLASI 1, , (4.63) -0.37% Bahrain.BAX 1, , % United Arab Emirates.ADX 2, , % Saudi Arabia.TASI 6, , % Kuwait.KWSE 7, , (174.70) -2.45% Oman.MSI 6, , % Egypt.CCSI 1, , % Source: Reuters, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit THE EGYPTIAN STOCK EXCHANGE The Cairo Stock Exchange Index ended the week on a positive note, gaining some 0.49% to close at 1, Trading activity included 91,833,917 shares valued at LE million ($ million). Among the most heavily traded stocks, El Watany Bank of Egypt was up at LE ($5.19) followed by Golden Pyramids Plaza which firmed at $4.22 (LE 24.27). On the other hand, Rakta Paper Manufacturing topped the losers list, closing down at LE ($2.29), followed by Sharm Dreams Co. for Tourism Investment which settled down at LE ($2.22). THE SAUDI STOCK EXCHANGE On a weekly basis, the Tadawul All Shares Index maintained its gaining momentum, closing up by 1.57% at 6, Trading activity encompassed million shares valued at SAR billion ($5. billion), with the Saudi stock market capitalization attaining SAR 1, billion ($ billion) in comparison with SAR 1, billion ($ billion) a week earlier. Saudi Advanced emerged as the top gainer of the week, up at SAR ($3.71), followed by KEC which advanced to SAR 8.35 ($2.23). On the other hand, Anaam Holding topped the losers list, down by 8.50% to SAR ($.90), followed by Zamil Industrial which closed lower at SAR 35. ($9.36). THE EGYPTIAN STOCK EXCHANGE Companies Closing Previous TOP FIVE GAINERS % Change Market Cap. Million El Watany Bank of Egypt LE LE % LE 2,947 Golden Pyramids Plaza $4.22 $ % LE 12,838 National Societe Generale Bank (NSGB) LE LE % LE 16,594 Suez Canal Bank LE 9.00 LE % LE 1,798 Guezira Hotels & Tourism $27.23 $ % LE 466 TOP FIVE LOSERS Rakta Paper Manufacturing LE LE % LE 396 Sharm Dreams Co. for Tourism Investment LE LE % LE 587 El Wadi for Exporting Agricultural Products LE LE % LE 118 Nile Pharmaceuticals LE LE % LE 374 Ceramic & Porcelain LE 5.96 LE % LE 302 LE/USD LE Source: Egypt Stock Exchange, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit THE SAUDI STOCK EXCHANGE Companies Closing Previous TOP FIVE GAINERS % Change Market Cap. Million Saudi Advanced SAR SAR % SAR 600 KEC SAR 8.35 SAR % SAR 2,833 SAFCO SAR SAR % SAR 39,188 AlAbdullatif SAR 33. SAR % SAR 2,689 Petrochem SAR SAR % SAR 9,864 TOP FIVE LOSERS Anaam Holding SAR SAR % SAR 446 Zamil Industrial SAR 35. SAR % SAR 2,6 AL Babtain SAR SAR % SAR 1,122 Al-Ahlia SAR SAR % SAR 500 SABB SAR SAR % SAR 30,000 USD/SR $ Source: Saudi Stock Exchange, Credit Libanais Economic Research Unit Arab Markets REUTERS, EGYPT AND SAUDI ARABIA STOCK EXCHANGES 15

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 482 December 21 st December 30 th 2015 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608000 Ext. 1285 research@cl.com.lb

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 443 December 29 th January 9 th 2015 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.398169 Fax +961.1.398169 Ext. 1085 research@cl.com.lb

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 539 February 25 th March 3 rd 2017 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE

More information

The Economic Letter March 2018

The Economic Letter March 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter March 2018 Summary: In the first quarter 2018, most real sector indicators retreated with regard to the corresponding

More information

The Economic Letter May 2018

The Economic Letter May 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter May 2018 Summary: In May 2018, real sector indicators were mixed with reference to the preceding month. Imports of goods

More information

The Economic Letter July 2018

The Economic Letter July 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter July 2018 Summary: In July 2018, real sector indicators progressed in relation to the preceding month. Both imports

More information

The Economic Letter January 2018

The Economic Letter January 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter January 2018 Summary: In the first month of 2018, most real sector indicators retreated in relation to the preceding

More information

The Economic Letter September 2018

The Economic Letter September 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter September 2018 Summary: In the first three quarters of 2018, most real sector indicators retreated in relation to the

More information

The Economic Letter November 2018

The Economic Letter November 2018 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Summary: In November 2018, the majority of real sector indicators regressed in relation to the previous month. Imports and exports of

More information

The Economic Letter December 2016

The Economic Letter December 2016 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter December 2016 Summary: In 2016, real sector indicators were mixed and their varied performance pointed to another year

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 575 November 11 th November 17 th Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE

More information

The Economic Letter December 2010

The Economic Letter December 2010 ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Research & Statistics Department The Economic Letter December 2010 Summary: Despite the deceleration in the activities of a number of economic sectors in the fourth quarter,

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 596 April 21 st April 27 th 2018 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 591 March 10 th March 16 th Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 598 May 5 th May 11 th 2018 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 551 May 20 th May 26 th 2017 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 592 March 17 th March 23 rd 2018 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT Lebanon s major entrepreneurship weakness is in product innovation, being the ability to provide unique products or services. The country s greatest strength in entrepreneurship is found in its perception

More information

Lebanomics 1st. Mfcbopo t Ebticpbse pg!fdpopnjd Joejdbupst. Quarter of 2011

Lebanomics 1st. Mfcbopo t Ebticpbse pg!fdpopnjd Joejdbupst. Quarter of 2011 Lebanomics 1st Quarter of 2011 Mfcbopo t Ebticpbse pg!fdpopnjd Joejdbupst Contacts Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA n.kabbara@ffaprivatebank.com +961 1 985195 Sales and Trading, FFA Private Bank (Beirut)

More information

THE LEBANESE ECONOMY IN 2016 BYBLOS BANK ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT

THE LEBANESE ECONOMY IN 2016 BYBLOS BANK ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT THE LEBANESE ECONOMY IN 2016 BYBLOS BANK ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS DEPARTMENT ECONOMIC ACTIVITY Economic activity in Lebanon remained below potential in 2016, in line with the previous five years.

More information

4 th Quarter of Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA

4 th Quarter of Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA 4 th Quarter of 2014 Contacts Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA n.kabbara@ffaprivatebank.com +961 1 985195 Analyst: Rima Gedeon r.gedeon@ffaprivatebank.com +961 1 985195 Sales and Trading, FFA Private

More information

2nd Quarter of Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA

2nd Quarter of Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA 2nd Quarter of 2012 Contacts Head of Research: Nadim Kabbara, CFA n.kabbara@ffaprivatebank.com +961 1 985195 Analyst: Laura El Makary l.elmakary@ffaprivatebank.com +961 1 985195 Sales and Trading, FFA

More information

Lebanon Weekly Report

Lebanon Weekly Report ECONOMY World Bank forecasts Lebanon real GDP growth at 2% in 2015 and 2.5% in 2016 The World Bank said that Lebanon s economic activity continues to tick along at a modest pace despite the political dysfunctionality.

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Sep-2017 Oct-2017 Nov Building permits (000 m 2 ) 12, ,

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Sep-2017 Oct-2017 Nov Building permits (000 m 2 ) 12, , Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: November / December 07 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit; BDL=

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. Indicators of Economic Activity (million USD unless otherwise mentioned)

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. Indicators of Economic Activity (million USD unless otherwise mentioned) Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: September / October 07 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit; BDL=

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (1,591) (1,224) n.a.

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (1,591) (1,224) n.a. Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: October / November 08 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit; BDL=

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT ECONOMY Beirut recorded the 3 rd lowest occupancy rate among Arab markets. The average room rate in Beirut hotels was USD 169 in 2013, down from USD 201 in 2012. OCCUPANCY RATE AT BEIRUT HOTELS REACHES

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. Indicators of Economic Activity (million USD unless otherwise mentioned)

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. Indicators of Economic Activity (million USD unless otherwise mentioned) Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: December 2016 / January 2017 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit;

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (2,100) (1,591) n.a.

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (2,100) (1,591) n.a. Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: August / September 08 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit; BDL=

More information

July 31, 2015 ECONOMY. Lebanon ranks 19 th worldwide and 2 nd in the Arab world in gold holdings

July 31, 2015 ECONOMY. Lebanon ranks 19 th worldwide and 2 nd in the Arab world in gold holdings ECONOMY Lebanon ranks 19 th worldwide and 2 nd in the Arab world in gold holdings Lebanon s gold reserves reached 287 tons, accounting for 21% of the country s total foreign reserves. The July 2015 edition

More information

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (1,401) (2,100) (1,591)

ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON. 5- Balance of Trade in Goods = (4) - (3) (16,738) (1,401) (2,100) (1,591) Key Indicators ASSOCIATION OF BANKS IN LEBANON Issue: August / September 08 LBP= Lebanese Pound; USD= US Dollar; FC= Foreign Currency; ( ) indicates a negative number; CD= Certificate of Deposit; BDL=

More information

Switzerland Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014

Switzerland Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014 Switzerland Economic Update QNB Group September 14 Switzerland Overview Switzerland s efficient capital markets, highly skilled human capital and low corporate tax rates make it the world's most competitive

More information

BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L.

BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L. BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L. Economic Research Department The Lebanon Brief can be accessed via Internet at the following web address: http://www.blom.com.lb EQUITY MARKET Financial Markets Stock Market 25/1/02

More information

THE BDL MARKET VALUE WEIGHTED INDEX

THE BDL MARKET VALUE WEIGHTED INDEX Volume Value Market Cap. MVWI Market Cap. BVWI COMMUNICATION AND RESEARCH DEPARTMENT THE BDL MARKET VALUE WEIGHTED INDEX MONTHLY BRIEF Closing Prices The closing price for the month of March 2018 of the

More information

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 956 Week of February 15-20, 2016

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 956 Week of February 15-20, 2016 Your Investment Reference THE LEBANON BRIEF ISSUE 956 Week of February 15-20, 2016 ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT BLOMINVEST Bank Headquarters Bab Idriss, Beirut, Lebanon T (01) 991 784/2 F (+961) 1 991

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue Issue 564 Economic Research & Analysis Department In This Issue Charts of the Week Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 Personal Debt per Adult in Arab Countries at end-june

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT Beirut recorded the 2 nd lowest occupancy rate among Arab markets. The average room rate in Beirut hotels dropped to USD 167 in January 2014, compared to USD 173 in January 2013. Occupancy rate at Beirut

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 528 26 th December 9 th 2016 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR CONTACTS The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR Treasury & Capital Markets Bechara Serhal (961-1) 977421 bechara.serhal@bankaudi.com.lb Nadine Akkawi (961-1) 977401 nadine.akkawi@bankaudi.com.lb Private Banking Toufic

More information

BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L.

BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L. BLOMINVEST BANK S.A.L. Economic Research Department can be accessed via Internet at the following web address: http://www.blom.com.lb Highlights of the Week Economic Statistics........p.69 Gross FX Reserves

More information

Lebanon Weekly Report

Lebanon Weekly Report Lebanon ranks 98 th most prosperous country in the world The Legatum Prosperity Index defines prosperity as a combination of wealth and wellbeing, benchmarking 142 countries in eight categories. In the

More information

THE WEEKLY ISSUE 19 7 TH MAY 2018 INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND JOB CREATION CONFERENCE IN THIS ISSUE

THE WEEKLY ISSUE 19 7 TH MAY 2018 INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND JOB CREATION CONFERENCE IN THIS ISSUE INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND JOB CREATION CONFERENCE The Central Egypt (CBE), Egypt s Finance Ministry and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) organized the Inclusive Growth and Job Creation Conference in Cairo

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK

LEBANON THIS WEEK Issue 502 July 31 - August 5, 2017 Economic Research & Analysis Department LEBANON THIS WEEK In This Issue Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 Charts of the Week Performance

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT ECONOMY Lebanon ranks 18 th worldwide and 2 nd in the Arab world in gold holdings Lebanon s gold reserves reached 287 tons, accounting for 24% of the country s total foreign reserves. The August 2016 edition

More information

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L.

CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. CREDIT LIBANAIS S.A.L. Issue No. 577 25 th December 1 st 2017 Economic Research Unit Credit Libanais Headquarters Adlieh Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961.1.608000 Fax +96.1.608231 research@cl.com.lb TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

May 30, 2014 ECONOMY. Lebanon ranks 85th among 160 countries on Logistics Performance Index

May 30, 2014 ECONOMY. Lebanon ranks 85th among 160 countries on Logistics Performance Index ECONOMY The LPI is a benchmarking tool developed by the World Bank to measure the efficiency of trade supply chains within a country. Lebanon ranks 85th among 160 countries on Logistics Performance Index

More information

ECONOMIC ACTIVITY REBOUNDED TO 5-YEAR HIGH IN 1Q 2016

ECONOMIC ACTIVITY REBOUNDED TO 5-YEAR HIGH IN 1Q 2016 N 45 June 2016 Page 3 Bank lending accelerates despite slowdown in deposit growth Page 4 Construction activity may be turning the corner Page 5 Fiscal deficit hits record $1.4bn in the first quarter Page

More information

External Position of the Egyptian Economy

External Position of the Egyptian Economy Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy During the Period July / September 2004/05 Quarterly Report Volume No. (7) January 2005 Foreword The External Position of the Egyptian Economy

More information

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR CONTACTS Treasury & Capital Markets Micky Chebli (961-1) 977419 micky.chebli@banqueaudi.com Nadine Akkawi (961-1) 977401 nadine.akkawi@banqueaudi.com Bechara Serhal (961-1) 977421 bechara.serhal@banqueaudi.com

More information

External Position of the Egyptian Economy

External Position of the Egyptian Economy Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy During July / December 2004/05 Quarterly Report Volume No. (8) April 2005 Foreword The External Position of the Egyptian Economy Report is

More information

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR

The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR CONTACTS The LEBANON WEEKLY MONITOR Treasury & Capital Markets Bechara Serhal (961-1) 977421 bechara.serhal@bankaudi.com.lb Nadine Akkawi (961-1) 977401 nadine.akkawi@bankaudi.com.lb Private Banking Toufic

More information

Investor Relations Presentation December 2013

Investor Relations Presentation December 2013 Investor Relations Presentation December 2013 Contents 1. QNB at a Glance 2. QNB Comparative Positioning Qatar and MENA 3. Financial Highlights as at 31 December 2013 4. Economic Overview Notes: These

More information

Lebanon. Market Bulletin Q2.2018

Lebanon. Market Bulletin Q2.2018 Lebanon Market Bulletin Q2.2018 July 2018 Lebanon Market Bulletin (Q2-2018) Highlights: Lebanon s CPI (Consumer s Price Index) has been increasing since March 2018 to record 106.7, 107, and 107.2 for April,

More information

Investor Presentation QIII 2018

Investor Presentation QIII 2018 Investor Presentation QIII 2018 1. Introduction 2. Financial Overview 3. Business Overview 4. BLOM s Shares 5. Appendix BLOM Bank at a glance QIII 2018 Overview of BLOM Bank BLOM Bank Shareholders BLOM

More information

Investor Presentation

Investor Presentation Investor Presentation 2018 1. Introduction 2. Financial Overview 3. Business Overview 4. BLOM s Shares 5. Appendix BLOM Bank at a glance 2018 Overview of BLOM Bank BLOM Bank Shareholders BLOM is the most

More information

Sep 18, 2015 ECONOMY. IIF revises Lebanon s GDP growth rate down to 1.1% in 2015

Sep 18, 2015 ECONOMY. IIF revises Lebanon s GDP growth rate down to 1.1% in 2015 ECONOMY IIF revises Lebanon s GDP growth rate down to 1.1% in 2015 IIF states that economic activity remains weak, reflecting policy inaction amid a protracted political crisis and rising regional insecurity.

More information

Investor Presentation QI 2016

Investor Presentation QI 2016 Investor Presentation QI 2016 1. Overview 2. Financial Information 3. Business Information 4. Share Information Overview QI 2016 Major Highlights Consistent Annual Income Growth ($M) One of the oldest

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT Total imports decreased by a yearly 5% to reach USD 8,713 million in the first five months of 2014, while total exports dropped by 30% to reach USD 1,387 million. Imports from China accounted for the largest

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue Issue 519 Economic Research & Analysis Department In This Issue Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 IMF calls for fiscal consolidation Goldman Sachs maintains its assessment

More information

Report - Lebanon s Economic Performance in H1 2011

Report - Lebanon s Economic Performance in H1 2011 Report - Lebanon s Economic Performance in H1 2011 Executive Summary 2 General Introduction 3 Real Sector 3 Public Finances 7 Monetary Situation 8 Financial Sector 9 Foreign Sector 10 Economic Prospects

More information

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD January 15, 2018 [ ] MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY» The European central bank (ECB) has indicated it should revisit its communication stance in early 2018, according to the ECB s minutes of December meeting

More information

External Position of the Egyptian Economy

External Position of the Egyptian Economy Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy During July / March 2004/05 Quarterly Report Volume No. (9) July 2005 Foreword The External Position of the Egyptian Economy Report is one

More information

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 929 Week of 27 July - 1 August, 2015

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 929 Week of 27 July - 1 August, 2015 Your Investment Reference THE LEBANON BRIEF ISSUE 929 Week of 27 July - 1 August, 2015 ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT BLOMINVEST Bank Headquarters Bab Idriss, Beirut, Lebanon T (01) 991 784/2 F (+961) 1

More information

The Financial Monthly

The Financial Monthly ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT Ministry of Finance The Financial Monthly September 2016 VOLUME 11, NO. 11 Prepared by: Sara Eid Senior Economist - Chief Editor Assistant Director for Publications Ministry of Finance

More information

Investor Relations Presentation December 2012

Investor Relations Presentation December 2012 Investor Relations Presentation December 2012 Contents 1. QNB at a Glance 2. QNB Comparative Positioning Qatar and MENA 3. Financial Highlights December 2012 4. Economic Overview 2 QNB at a Glance QNB

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT ECONOMY Transfers to EDL reach USD 212.1 million in the first two months of 2018, up by a yearly 3.5% Of the transfers to EDL, an amount of USD 3.7 million was allotted to cover debt service and USD 208.4

More information

MONETARY CONDITIONS IMPROVED AT THE START OF 2018

MONETARY CONDITIONS IMPROVED AT THE START OF 2018 N 65 February 2018 Page 3 Lebanese exports to the GCC rebounded in 2017 Page 4 Consumer prices accelerating on local and foreign pressures Page 5 Lebanese bond yields tighten even as the debt stock swells

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue Issue 540 Economic Research & Analysis Department In This Issue Charts of the Week Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 Lebanon's piracy rate at 69% in 2017, 37th highest

More information

Nigeria Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014

Nigeria Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014 Nigeria Economic Update QNB Group September 21 Nigeria Overview A rebasing of GDP in 213 has made Nigeria the biggest economy in Africa with the largest population; the economy is growing rapidly but remains

More information

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 898 Week of December, 2014

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 898 Week of December, 2014 Your Investment Reference THE LEBANON BRIEF ISSUE 898 Week of 08 13 December, 2014 ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT Rashid Karame Street, Verdun Area P.O.Box 11-1540 Beirut, Lebanon T (01) 747802 F (+961)

More information

Beirut, October 30, 2018

Beirut, October 30, 2018 Bank Audi Consolidated Activity Highlights as at End-September 2018 Sustained profits growth with strengthening balance sheet in an adverse environment Beirut, October 30, 2018 Sustained profits growth

More information

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD. » The Bank of England raised its benchmark interest rate to its highest level in MACRO & MARKET COMMENTARY

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD. » The Bank of England raised its benchmark interest rate to its highest level in MACRO & MARKET COMMENTARY August 06, 2018 [ ] MACRO & MARKET COMMENTARY» The Bank of England raised its benchmark interest rate to its highest level in almost a decade. Raising the interest rate is suggesting that inflation continues

More information

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD

[ ] WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD January 22, 2018 [ ] MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY» The U.S economy and inflation expanded at a Modest to Moderate pace during December 2017, while wages continued to push higher according to the Federal

More information

Central Bank of Egypt

Central Bank of Egypt Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy During FY 2008/09 Quarterly Report Volume No. (26) Central Bank of Egypt External Position Preface The External Position of the Egyptian

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT Lebanon is the 9 th most entrepreneurial country in the MENA region and 63 rd among 137 countries On a global perspective, North America ranks at the top with a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem achieving

More information

THE WEEKLY ISSUE TH DECEMBER 2017 THE IMF COMPLETES THE SECOND REVIEW OF EGYPT S REFORM PROGRAM IN THIS ISSUE

THE WEEKLY ISSUE TH DECEMBER 2017 THE IMF COMPLETES THE SECOND REVIEW OF EGYPT S REFORM PROGRAM IN THIS ISSUE THE IMF COMPLETES THE SECOND REVIEW OF EGYPT S REFORM PROGRAM The International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the second review of Egypt s reform program. The completion of the review allows the authorities

More information

WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY

WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY July 17, 2017 [ W E E K LY E C O N O M I C C O M M E N TA R Y ] WEEKLY ANALYSIS FOR THE MOST CRITICAL ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENTS MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY» The Federal Reserve (FED) might be

More information

Egypt Resilience and Potential

Egypt Resilience and Potential Egypt Resilience and Potential INTERNATIONAL BANKING FORUM 2011 Brescia, 16-17 June 2011 Issa, Ahmed Head of Financial Institutions Group Commercial International Bank Agenda o January 25 th February 11

More information

BANQUE D'AFFAIRES DU LIBAN ET D'OUTRE-MER SAL

BANQUE D'AFFAIRES DU LIBAN ET D'OUTRE-MER SAL Monday 18 October Saturday 23 October, 1999 Issue N o 169 BANQUE D'AFFAIRES DU LIBAN ET D'OUTRE-MER SAL Economic Research Department The Lebanon Brief can be accessed via Internet at the following web

More information

Monthly Economic and Financial Developments April 2006

Monthly Economic and Financial Developments April 2006 Release Date: 30 May Monthly Economic and Financial Developments April In an effort to provide the public with more frequent information on its economic surveillance activities, the Central Bank has decided

More information

Press Release. Bank Audi Consolidated Activity Highlights as at End-March Beirut, April 27, 2017

Press Release. Bank Audi Consolidated Activity Highlights as at End-March Beirut, April 27, 2017 Press Release Bank Audi Consolidated Activity Highlights as at End-March 2017 Beirut, April 27, 2017 US$ 43.9 billion of assets US$ 36.0 billion of customers deposits US$ 17.0 billion of loans to customers

More information

Central Bank of Egypt

Central Bank of Egypt Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy July/ December 2009/2010 Quarterly Report Volume No. (28) Central Bank of Egypt External Position Preface The External Position of the Egyptian

More information

Investor Presentation QI 2017

Investor Presentation QI 2017 Investor Presentation QI 2017 1. Overview 2. Financial Information 3. Business Information 4. Share Information Overview QI 2017 Major Highlights Consistent Annual Income Growth ($M) One of the oldest

More information

LEBANESE ECONOMY GAINS BACK SOME GROUND IN EARLY 2016

LEBANESE ECONOMY GAINS BACK SOME GROUND IN EARLY 2016 N 43 April 2016 Page 3 Consumption gains momentum into 2016 Page 4 Government revenues floundered in, debt ratings stable Page 5 Real estate kicks off the year with a bang Page 6 Profits at Alpha Group

More information

CAPITAL MARKETS AND FOREX OVERVIEW JULY 2016 REPORT

CAPITAL MARKETS AND FOREX OVERVIEW JULY 2016 REPORT CAPITAL MARKETS AND FOREX OVERVIEW JULY 2016 REPORT NON-DISCLOSURE CLAUSE Union Capital Limited has prepared this material. Opinions expressed herein are current opinions as of the date appearing in this

More information

RISING US RATES, POLITICAL RISK WEIGH ON ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

RISING US RATES, POLITICAL RISK WEIGH ON ECONOMIC ACTIVITY N 73 October 2018 Page 3 Government to revive housing subsidies as real estate falters Page 4 Fiscal deficit swelled through April 2018 despite revenue gains Page 5 Non-resident banking activity gains

More information

Political stalemate weighs on economic activity

Political stalemate weighs on economic activity N 38 November 2015 Page 3 Lebanon to issue more long-term debt, weighted yields rising Page 4 Resilient consumption buoying Lebanon s car market Page 5 Trade deficit down $2bn through August Page 6 Lebanon

More information

IN THIS ISSUE ECONOMY

IN THIS ISSUE ECONOMY IN THIS ISSUE ECONOMY Coincident Indicator Improves by 5.8% Y-O-Y in October 2013 Fiscal Deficit Widened by 32% to USD 3,519 Million in the First Ten Months of 2013 Trade Deficit Goes up on a Yearly Basis

More information

Annual Isuue 2016 THE WEEKLY. 2016: The Year In Review.

Annual Isuue 2016 THE WEEKLY. 2016: The Year In Review. THE WEEKLY Annual Isuue 2016 2016: The Year In Review 1 2016: A YEAR OF FISCAL AND MONETARY REFORMS Egypt witnessed a series of landmark events during 2016 on key political and economic fronts. In early

More information

WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY

WEEKLY CHANGES AGAINST THE USD MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY July 10, 2017 [ W E E K LY E C O N O M I C C O M M E N TA R Y ] WEEKLY ANALYSIS FOR THE MOST CRITICAL ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENTS MACRO & MARKETS COMMENTARY» The minutes of FOMC meeting in June

More information

2014 Fiscal Balance: Short-Term Improvement

2014 Fiscal Balance: Short-Term Improvement BLOMINVEST BANK In June 2014, oil prices were slashed from a high of $112 to a low of $58 in December 2014. This bearish trend meant different things to the fiscal balances of oil importing countries and

More information

MARKETS RECOUP LOSSES, OUTLOOK HINGES ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS

MARKETS RECOUP LOSSES, OUTLOOK HINGES ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS N 63 December 2017 Page 3 Financial markets recovering, investor unease remains Page 4 Uncertainty clouds outlook for real estate and construction Page 5 Lebanon closes in on its first oil and gas exploration

More information

France Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014

France Economic Update QNB Group. September 2014 France Economic Update QNB Group September 2014 France Overview France is the ninth largest economy in the world on a purchasing power parity basis and service-oriented; high indebtedness and lack of reforms

More information

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT

LEBANON WEEKLY REPORT ECONOMY The changes of net foreign assets in the financial sector (balance of payments) record a surplus of USD 67.4 million in November 2017 alone The BOP in the first eleven months of 2017 is a combination

More information

Saudi Chartbook. Summary. November Real Economy: Economic data for September showed a downward trend in economic activity.

Saudi Chartbook. Summary. November Real Economy: Economic data for September showed a downward trend in economic activity. Saudi Chartbook Summary Real Economy: Economic data for September showed a downward trend in economic activity. Government Finance: The net monthly change in government accounts with SAMA remained negative

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue Issue 528 Economic Research & Analysis Department In This Issue Charts of the Week Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 Demand for housing decelerates in fourth quarter of

More information

Tourism and consumption driving economic rebound

Tourism and consumption driving economic rebound N 37 October 2015 Page 3 Foreign markets lift bank profits as domestic activity slows Page 4 Currency and commodity trends favor Lebanese consumers Page 5 Real estate correction underway, prices still

More information

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue

LEBANON THIS WEEK. Charts of the Week. Quote to Note. Number of the Week. Economic Research & Analysis Department. In This Issue Issue 514 Economic Research & Analysis Department In This Issue Charts of the Week Economic Indicators...1 Capital Markets...1 Lebanon in the News...2 Demand for housing decelerates in third quarter of

More information

Central Bank of Egypt

Central Bank of Egypt Central Bank of Egypt External Position of the Egyptian Economy FY 2009/2010 Quarterly Report Volume No. (30) Central Bank of Egypt External Position Preface The External Position of the Egyptian Economy

More information

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 861 Week of March, 2014

THE LEBANON BRIEF. ISSUE 861 Week of March, 2014 Your Investment Reference THE LEBANON BRIEF ISSUE 861 Week of 10-15 March, 2014 ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT Rashid Karame Street, Verdun Area P.O.Box 11-1540 Beirut, Lebanon T (01) 747802 F (+961) 1 737414

More information