Middle East / Africa
World trade is finding a historically soft new normal
Japan’s exports by yen value fell for the first time this year but the WTO expects modest world trade growth ahead
JapanBudget tightening call reduces structural reform scope
IMF research examines ways of increasing structural reform acceptance, but the fiscal monitor calls for tighter budgets
InternationalAI will lift capital markets efficiency and volatility
The IMF report on AI use in capital markets shows rapid adoption, but different adoption rates by sectors and regions
InternationalEnergy wealth will help Saudi AI drive
The government is channelling massive investments into developing artificial intelligence (AI) domestically
Saudi ArabiaTalon may have third-term ambitions in Benin
The authorities have arrested a prominent businessman and a former minister accused of plotting a coup d'etat
BeninIsrael’s interest rate may stay static in short term
Economic growth has slowed more sharply than previously thought, while inflation remains above target
IsraelEgypt’s economy will benefit from Saudi investment
Egypt and Saudi Arabia have signed agreements to deepen trade and investment ties
EgyptQatar’s constitutional change would have little impact
Emir Al Thani is proposing to revert to a fully appointed Shura Council
Qatar