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World Bank Predicts 4.2% Economic Growth For Egypt In FY2025/26

Egypt’s economy is projected to experience steady growth in the coming years, with a forecasted GDP increase of 4.2% for FY 2025/2026, driven by private consumption, easing inflation, robust remittances, and a positive economic sentiment. The World Bank’s forecast also anticipates a 3.5% GDP growth for FY 2024/2025, reflecting the country’s gradual recovery.

According to the World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects report for January, this growth is primarily attributed to a boost in private consumption, which is supported by gradually easing inflation, alongside a surge in remittances and an overall improvement in investor sentiment. However, the report also cautioned that Egypt’s interest payments are expected to remain elevated in 2025, which could continue to weigh on the state’s budget.

Economic Slowdown In FY2023/24

Egypt’s economy faced challenges in FY2023/24, with growth slowing to just 2.4%. The decline was largely attributed to a drop in shipping activity through the Suez Canal and a reduction in natural gas production. Additionally, the non-oil manufacturing sector faced a downturn due to rising input costs, supply bottlenecks, and previous foreign exchange shortages.

Signs Of Recovery Following Exchange Rate Liberalization

The liberalization of Egypt’s exchange rate in March 2024 has played a pivotal role in boosting investor confidence and driving private sector activity in the second half of the year. This policy shift has had a positive impact on the economy, though the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth forecasts for Egypt downward. The IMF now projects a 0.5% reduction in Egypt’s real GDP growth for FY2024/25 and a 1% downward revision for FY2025/26.

Key Drivers of Egypt’s Economic Recovery

In January 2025, Egypt’s Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) indicated that the country’s GDP growth could range from 3.5% to 4.5% in 2025, thanks to ongoing reforms aimed at boosting investment and controlling inflation. These efforts are expected to continue driving positive growth, as the country looks to strengthen its economy in the medium term.

The IMF has also revised its forecast, now predicting a 4% growth in Egypt’s economy in 2025, up from an anticipated 2.7% in 2024. The IMF estimates Egypt’s GDP at constant prices will rise to EGP 8.7 trillion in 2025, up from EGP 8.4 trillion in 2024. At current prices, GDP is expected to increase to EGP 17.5 trillion in 2025, a notable rise from EGP 13.8 trillion in the previous year.

Positive Growth Projections From International Institutions

International institutions, including the IMF, remain optimistic about Egypt’s economic outlook in 2025, with projections indicating sustained growth driven by the government’s reforms and improved consumption and remittance flows. The development of key infrastructure projects, such as Ras El-Hikma, combined with potential geopolitical easing, could further enhance Egypt’s recovery.

Looking at the medium term, the IMF projects that Egypt’s growth could reach around 5% between 2025 and 2029. The World Bank also expects positive growth trends, forecasting 3.5% growth for 2025 and 4.2% for 2026, spurred by increased investments and stronger private consumption, which is projected to rise by 4.8% in 2025, up from 4.6% in 2024.

Current Indicators Of Recovery

Recent data from Egypt’s planning ministry shows that the country’s GDP growth reached 3.5% in the first quarter of FY 2024/25, a notable improvement from 2.7% during the same period last year, indicating early signs of recovery following a period of economic slowdown. With sustained reforms and a focus on fostering investment, Egypt’s economy is on a positive trajectory, positioning it for continued growth in the coming years.

Apple Retains Top Spot As World’s Most Valuable Brand 

Apple has once again claimed the title of the world’s most valuable brand for 2025, with a brand value of $574.5 billion, according to Brand Finance. The tech giant has maintained its leading position, surpassing its closest competitor, Microsoft, valued at $461 billion. Apple’s reign as the top brand has remained largely uninterrupted since 2021, aside from a brief dip in 2023 when it trailed Amazon by a slim margin of 1 percent.

Brand Finance’s latest research, unveiled at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlights that three of the top five brands globally are technology-driven, with Apple, Microsoft, and Google leading the pack. Google’s brand is valued at $413 billion, while Amazon sits in fourth place at $356.4 billion, followed by Walmart at $137.2 billion. Despite global economic growth projections stagnating at 2.8 percent, the total value of the world’s top 500 brands has soared, rising 10 percent year-on-year from $8.6 trillion in 2024 to $9.5 trillion in 2025.

Fastest-Growing Brands: Rising Stars In Tech And Beyond

While Apple remains the dominant force, one of the standout stories this year is the phenomenal growth of e&, which has seen its brand value skyrocket by eight times to $15.3 billion. This surge marks the culmination of a strategic rebranding from Etisalat to e&, aimed at expanding its international footprint. Meanwhile, Nvidia’s organic growth of 98 percent has made it the second-fastest-growing brand, with its brand value climbing steadily as the company leads the charge in semiconductor technology.

TikTok, though only evaluated by Brand Finance since 2022, has seen impressive growth, with its brand value up by 79 percent to $105.8 billion in just four years, placing it among the high-growth leaders. Chinese brands like TikTok, Pinduoduo, and BYD are challenging the dominance of traditional Western giants, underscoring China’s evolving brand-building strategies and global influence.

David Haigh, CEO of Brand Finance, emphasizes that the rapid brand growth isn’t limited to tech companies. Emerging sectors like e-commerce, gaming, and electric vehicles are also witnessing remarkable value creation. DraftKings and Fanduel are benefitting from the US legalizing online gambling, while BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle maker, is capitalizing on the global shift towards sustainable transport.

AI And Innovation Powering Brand Success

Google’s 24 percent growth to $413 billion and Amazon’s 15 percent increase in brand value reflect the ongoing integration of AI and innovation into their operations. Google, in particular, has cemented its position as an innovation leader, with investments in AI boosting its consumer trust and appeal. Amazon, on the other hand, continues to enhance its customer-centric approach through AI, from personalized recommendations to cutting-edge logistics systems.

WeChat, the Chinese messaging and social platform, maintains its status as the world’s strongest brand for the second year in a row, with an outstanding Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 95.2 out of 100. Its seamless integration into the lives of millions of users worldwide makes it a leading global player.

The Rise Of China And The Dominance of American Brands

Apple’s success is part of a broader trend, with the US continuing to dominate the global brand rankings. Of the 193 American brands featured in the top 500, they collectively contribute more than half of the total brand value. China and Germany follow, with 69 and 27 brands, respectively, accounting for 15 percent and 6 percent of the global brand value.

Among industries, banking leads the way, with 79 brands contributing 13 percent of the total brand value. Retail follows closely with 45 brands, making up 11 percent, while media comes in third with 23 brands representing 10 percent.

In a world where technology continues to shape the future of business, Apple’s consistent leadership serves as a testament to the power of innovation, while brands like e& and Nvidia demonstrate that emerging players can also achieve extraordinary growth. As AI, e-commerce, and sustainable industries continue to evolve, the brand landscape is poised for even more disruption and opportunity.

New WEF Report: A Path To Inclusive Economic Growth Through AI

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a new report that outlines how artificial intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to foster inclusive economic growth and societal progress. While AI holds immense potential to transform economies and societies, ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably remains a global challenge. The report offers practical strategies for leaders to address equity concerns, tailor AI solutions to local needs, and drive long-term, sustainable growth for all.

Nine Strategic Objectives

The report, titled Blueprint for Intelligent Economies, was developed in collaboration with KPMG. It outlines nine key strategic objectives that support every phase of the AI journey: innovation, development, deployment, and adoption at national, regional, and global levels. As part of the WEF’s AI Competitiveness through Regional Collaboration Initiative, the report tackles disparities in access to AI, infrastructure, advanced computing, and skills. It provides actionable insights and showcases successful case studies to help governments and other stakeholders at all AI maturity levels build more inclusive and resilient AI ecosystems worldwide.

AI Strategy For Inclusive Growth

The report emphasizes the importance of designing national and regional AI strategies that engage all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, entrepreneurs, civil society, and users. These strategies, backed by high-level leadership, should be developed in close collaboration with local communities. This approach is critical to addressing issues such as responsible governance, data privacy, and the local impact of AI policies on innovation and investment.

“The significant potential of AI remains largely untapped in many regions worldwide. Establishing an inclusive and competitive AI ecosystem will become a crucial priority for all nations,” said Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies of South Africa. “Collaboration among multiple stakeholders at the national, regional, and global levels will be essential in fostering growth and prosperity through AI for everyone,” he added.

Tailored Frameworks And Collaboration

The report draws on global expertise and provides frameworks tailored to nations at various stages of AI development. While every region faces its unique challenges, the blueprint stresses the importance of adapting successful solutions from other regions. For example, regional frameworks for sharing AI infrastructure and energy resources can help overcome national resource limitations. Additionally, centralized databanks can create inclusive local datasets that reflect the diverse needs of communities. Public-private subsidies can widen access to affordable AI-ready devices, allowing local innovators to adopt AI technologies and scale their operations.

“All nations have a unique opportunity to advance their economic and societal progress through AI,” said Hatem Dowidar, CEO of E&. “This requires a collaborative approach of intentional leadership from governments, supported by active engagement with all stakeholders at every stage of the AI journey. Regional and global collaborations remain essential to address shared challenges and opportunities, ensuring equitable access to key AI capabilities and responsibly maximizing its transformative potential for lasting value for all,” he concluded.

Trump Announces $500 Billion Private-Sector Investment In AI Infrastructure

U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a landmark private-sector investment plan on Tuesday, promising up to $500 billion in funding to support artificial intelligence infrastructure. This ambitious initiative aims to position the United States ahead of its global competitors in this vital technological sector.

Trump revealed that a joint venture called Stargate, involving OpenAI (creator of ChatGPT), SoftBank, and Oracle, will spearhead the effort. The project will build cutting-edge data centers and generate over 100,000 jobs in the U.S. The companies involved, along with other equity partners, have already committed $100 billion for immediate deployment, with the remaining funds to be invested over the next four years.

Key Highlights:

  • Joint Venture: OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle are collaborating on Stargate, aiming to revolutionize AI infrastructure.
  • Immediate Investment: $100 billion has been allocated for the first phase, with the full $500 billion to be invested over the next four years.
  • Job Creation: The project is expected to generate more than 100,000 jobs in the U.S.
  • Construction Begins: The first data centers are already being built in Texas, with plans for 20 centers, each spanning half a million square feet.

Executives Backing The Plan

The announcement was made at the White House, with key industry leaders such as SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison joining Trump. Ellison emphasized that the data centers will be pivotal in powering AI applications, including those for analyzing electronic health records to aid healthcare professionals.

Ellison also credited Trump for making the project a reality, stating, “We wouldn’t have decided to do this unless you won.” Altman echoed this sentiment, noting that the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) would not have been possible without Trump’s leadership.

While it was unclear if this announcement was an update to a previously reported initiative, the scale and impact of the project make it a significant milestone in the U.S.’s AI development strategy. The venture is set to play a crucial role in advancing the country’s leadership in AI technologies.

Netflix Reports Record Subscriber Growth And Price Increase

Netflix shares surged by 14.3% in early trading on Wednesday after the streaming giant announced impressive subscriber growth during the holiday quarter. The company revealed it added a record 18.9 million subscribers in the fourth quarter, pushing its total global customer base to nearly 302 million, well ahead of its Hollywood competitors.

Key Highlights

  • Record Growth: Netflix attracted 18.9 million new subscribers, surpassing its rivals in the entertainment industry.
  • Price Hike: To capitalize on its growing subscriber base, Netflix is raising prices in the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Argentina to cover the increasing costs of content production.
    • The ad-supported service in the U.S. will now cost $7.99 per month (up from $6.99), while the premium plan will increase by 9%, to $24.99.
  • Market Response: Investors reacted positively, driving Netflix shares up about 13% in after-hours trading. The company’s market value soared by nearly $50 billion, with shares increasing by more than 77% over the past year, far outpacing the S&P 500’s 24% gain.


“Netflix is solidifying its leadership position and literally outpacing its competitors in the streaming market,” said Paolo Pescatore, analyst at PP Foresight. “The company is now demonstrating its strength by adjusting prices, thanks to a wider and more diverse content lineup compared to competitors.”

Looking Ahead

  • Content Success: Netflix’s programming exceeded expectations, with the second season of the dystopian thriller Squid Game set to become one of its most-watched original series.
  • Live Events: The company’s investment in live events is paying off. The boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson in November saw 65 million streams, while two National Football League games on Christmas Day, one featuring Beyoncé at halftime, attracted an average of 30 million viewers each, ranking among the most-watched in NFL history.

Netflix’s bold move to raise prices and its continued content success suggest the company is firmly positioned to maintain its dominance in the streaming industry.

Trust in Scientists: A Global And Cypriot Perspective On Public Confidence

A recent global study, covering 68 countries including Cyprus and Greece, sheds light on the high levels of public trust in scientists and the widespread desire for their increased involvement in shaping societal and policy decisions. Published in Nature Human Behaviors, the research surveyed 71,922 individuals, offering the most detailed snapshot of global trust in scientists since the COVID-19 pandemic. The average global trust rating was 3.62 out of 5, reflecting a generally positive perception of scientists, though regional differences exist:

Countries With the Highest Trust

Egypt tops the list with a score of 4.30, followed by India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Australia.

Countries With the Lowest Trust

At the bottom, Albania ranked lowest with a score of 3.05, closely followed by Ethiopia, Russia, Bolivia, and Kazakhstan.

Greece And Cyprus

Greece ranks 56th with a trust rating of 3.39, just below the global average, while Cyprus follows closely with a slightly higher score of 3.42, placing 52nd in the global rankings.

The findings suggest that a significant portion of the public views scientists as competent (78%), honest (57%), and concerned about the welfare of society (56%). Furthermore, the study reveals that 75% of respondents agree that scientific methods are the most reliable means of discovering truth. More than half of the participants (52%) also believe that scientists should have a more direct role in policymaking.

Key Areas For Scientific Research Focus

The survey indicates that the public wants scientific efforts to concentrate on:

  • Enhancing public health
  • Addressing energy challenges
  • Alleviating poverty

On the other hand, there is a clear reluctance to prioritize military and defense technology, with many participants feeling that current research in these areas is overemphasized.

While trust in scientists remains strong, only 42% of respondents believe scientists actively consider public opinions. Additionally, 83% of participants called for improved communication between the scientific community and the public, as many feel that scientific priorities don’t always reflect societal needs.

Global CEOs Express Optimism For Growth But Emphasize Reinvention Amid Risks

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, optimism among global business leaders hit its highest level in years, according to PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey. Yet, despite this renewed confidence, the findings highlight the urgent need for companies to address critical challenges ranging from economic volatility to organizational reinvention.

Optimism On Growth

Nearly 60% of CEOs believe global economic growth will improve over the next 12 months, a sharp increase from 38% last year and just 18% in 2023. This growing confidence is reflected in workforce expansion plans, with 42% of CEOs expecting to increase headcount by at least 5% in 2025—more than double the proportion planning reductions (17%).

This optimism is strongest among smaller companies (48%) and sectors such as technology (61%), real estate (61%), private equity (52%), and pharma (51%).

Regional Risks And Concerns

While optimism reigns globally, macroeconomic volatility (29%) and inflation (27%) remain top concerns for CEOs overall. Regional priorities, however, show significant differences:

  • Middle East: Geopolitical conflict is the primary concern for 41% of CEOs.
  • Western Europe: Cyber risk (27%) narrowly surpasses inflation (24%) and labor shortages (25%).
  • Africa: Inflation takes precedence, with 39% citing it as the top risk.
  • North America and Asia-Pacific: Risk perceptions align closely with global averages.

Despite these challenges, the survey suggests leaders are approaching 2025 with a balanced perspective—optimistic about growth but pragmatic about navigating risks.

The Reinvention Imperative

The survey reveals a stark reality: 42% of CEOs believe their businesses won’t be viable a decade from now without significant transformation. Among those citing threats to their long-term viability, regulatory shifts emerged as the most critical factor (42%).

Although nearly two-thirds (63%) of CEOs have taken significant steps to reinvent their businesses over the past five years, many companies lack the agility to adapt quickly. For example:

  • Resource Allocation: Half of the CEOs said they reallocate less than 10% of their financial and human resources annually.
  • Revenue Growth from New Ventures: On average, only 7% of revenue over the last five years has come from distinct new business models.

As CEOs explore reinvention, 38% reported entering at least one new sector in the past five years, with these ventures contributing over 20% of revenue for one-third of respondents.

“Emerging technologies, shifting geopolitics, and the climate transition are redefining how economies function,” said Mohamed Kande, Global Chairman at PwC. “To thrive, business leaders must act boldly and reinvent strategies, from workforce planning to supply chains and business models.”

Generative AI: A Mixed Picture

Generative AI remains a focal point of optimism for many CEOs. Over half (56%) report efficiency gains from AI over the past year, with 32% attributing revenue growth to its adoption. However, challenges persist:

  • Trust: Only 33% of CEOs express confidence in integrating AI into core processes.
  • Expectations vs. Reality: While 46% of CEOs expected profitability gains from AI in 2024, only 34% reported achieving them.

Looking forward, 49% of CEOs anticipate AI-driven profitability improvements in 2025, with plans to embed AI into technology platforms (47%) and core processes (41%) while developing new products and services (30%).

“This year’s survey shows a more mature view of GenAI,” noted Matt Wood, PwC’s Global CTIO. “CEOs are optimistic but increasingly aware of the challenges in realizing its full value.”

Climate Investments Show Returns

The climate transition continues to shape corporate strategies, with 33% of CEOs reporting revenue increases from climate-related investments—six times more frequent than reports of revenue declines (5%). Nearly two-thirds stated that such investments either reduced costs or had no significant financial impact.

However, regulatory complexity remains a major hurdle, cited by 24% of CEOs as the top barrier to climate-related investments. This challenge exceeds concerns about lower ROI (18%) or lack of internal support (6%).

Carol Stubbings, PwC’s Global Chief Commercial Officer, remarked: “This survey shows business leaders are balancing optimism about the economy with realism about the need to fundamentally reinvent how they create value to thrive in the future.”

The Road Ahead

While the survey highlights optimism about growth and confidence in emerging technologies like GenAI, it also underscores the imperative for reinvention. The path forward lies in balancing bold, forward-looking strategies with pragmatic responses to risks, whether macroeconomic, geopolitical, or regulatory.

With global CEOs focused on transformation and growth, the next decade will test their ability to adapt and innovate in an era defined by rapid technological advancements, climate imperatives, and shifting global dynamics.

Cypriot MEP Hadjipantela Champions EU’s €4 Billion Aid To Egypt In High-Stakes Migration Talks

In Strasbourg this week, Cypriot MEP Michalis Hadjipantela met with Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdelatty to discuss the European Union’s €4 billion Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) package to Egypt. The meeting, held during the European Parliament’s plenary session, signals the strategic importance of EU-Egypt relations in tackling shared challenges, particularly migration.

Hadjipantela, representing DISY and the EPP as shadow rapporteur for the MFA, expressed confidence in securing parliamentary approval for the proposal. “This funding ensures Egypt’s strengthened border security while addressing migration flows to Cyprus,” he noted. He highlighted the EU’s role by saying, “Europe provides the solutions to the issues that concern Cypriot citizens.”

The MFA is a critical tool for the EU, offering financial relief to non-EU nations facing economic instability. Egypt’s case is particularly significant, with the total EU funding commitment reaching €7.4 billion for 2024–2027. These funds aim to foster economic development and enhance cooperation on migration management, reflecting the EU’s broader geopolitical strategy.

This aid package is pivotal for the EU, as it navigates the complexities of regional security and migration. Securing this financial lifeline for Egypt underpins its economic resilience and border management capabilities.

Hadjipantela’s advocacy underscores the intertwined priorities of economic development and migration control, emphasizing that Europe’s collective solutions are key to addressing these critical challenges. As the plenary vote approaches, the outcome will not only shape EU-Egypt relations but also set the tone for future European strategies in the region.

Abu Dhabi Unveils Dh13-Billion Plan To Lead as the World’s First Fully AI-native Government by 2027

Abu Dhabi is setting ambitious goals for the future, announcing a Dh13-billion strategy that aims to make its government operations entirely powered by artificial intelligence (AI) by 2027. With this move, the emirate aspires to become the world’s first fully “AI-native” government, with automated processes and complete adoption of cloud computing technologies.

The Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027, led by the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE), is a transformative initiative to enhance public service delivery, optimize government functions, and drive sustainable economic growth. Along with technological advances, the strategy will create over 5,000 jobs, boosting the local economy and contributing more than Dh24 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP.

The core objective of this initiative is to embed AI, cloud technologies, and data-driven insights into the very DNA of the government. “By incorporating these cutting-edge technologies, we will optimize our operations, improve public services, and ultimately support sustainable economic growth,” said Ahmed Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of DGE.

Key aspects of the strategy include the establishment of a unified digital enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform, which will improve government efficiency and streamline processes. As part of the “AI for All” program, the initiative will also focus on empowering citizens by training them in AI applications, ensuring a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Moreover, the government is committed to implementing over 200 AI-driven solutions across various public services, ensuring that these innovations reach all facets of governmental operations. Alongside the technological advancements, comprehensive cybersecurity measures will be introduced, with new digital guidelines aimed at maintaining the highest standards of security.

This move is not only a strategic shift towards a fully digital government but also a bold step towards positioning Abu Dhabi as a global leader in the adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies in the public sector.

How Saudi Banks Are Set To Maintain Strong Profitability In 2025 Amid Credit Growth And Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s banking sector is on track for continued stability and profitability into 2025, as credit growth remains robust and lower interest rates foster an increasingly favorable lending environment. A recent report by S&P Global Ratings projects that corporate lending will drive the lion’s share of growth, while ongoing government initiatives, notably the Vision 2030 plan, are expected to fuel lending activity further.

The Credit Surge: Corporate Lending Leading The Charge

Corporate lending is poised to be the backbone of credit growth in Saudi banks. Thanks to the ambitious Vision 2030 projects, particularly in infrastructure and large-scale development sectors, demand for financing is at an all-time high. The anticipated credit growth of 10% in 2025 is largely driven by corporate financing needs as the kingdom’s private sector works to align with national goals of diversification and modernization.

The effects of lower interest rates are already evident, as they are expected to further boost mortgage lending, adding yet another layer of growth to the financial system.

Stability Despite Rising Non-Performing Loans

Although non-performing loans (NPLs) are expected to edge up to 1.7% of total loans by 2025, up from 1.3% in September 2024, Saudi banks are well-equipped to handle the rise. Given the moderate nature of the increase and the absence of substantial write-offs, the banking sector remains resilient.

Banks in Saudi Arabia have built strong provisioning buffers, enabling them to manage any potential losses comfortably. This fortifies their position in what is likely to be a period of steady but not explosive credit growth.

The Global Landscape: International Financing For Vision 2030

As the country embarks on its ambitious Vision 2030 initiatives, Saudi banks are expected to continue leveraging international capital markets to fund the financing required for various projects. These initiatives are set to provide substantial long-term growth potential for both local and foreign lenders.

Surprising Loan Growth Signals A Thriving Sector

Saudi banks have already demonstrated impressive growth. The third quarter of 2024 saw a 3.7% quarter-on-quarter increase in loans and advances. Corporate and wholesale banking led the charge, growing by 4.4% and proving that the demand for lending within the kingdom is not just stable but accelerating.

With the ongoing strength of corporate lending, it’s clear that Saudi Arabia’s financial sector is far from reaching its peak growth potential. The financial support for Vision 2030 projects will likely continue to drive lending demand for the foreseeable future.

Vision 2030 And Non-Oil Sector Growth: A Diversified Path Ahead

Vision 2030’s focus on diversification and reducing reliance on oil revenues is showing tangible results in Saudi Arabia’s economy. The non-oil sector has posted strong growth, particularly in construction and services, driven by an expansion of the domestic workforce and increased consumer demand. The boost in the non-oil private sector has also been bolstered by a surge in export activities.

In December, the Riyad Bank Saudi Arabia Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) held steady at a strong 58.4, a modest dip from a 17-month high but still well above the 50.0 mark, indicating sustained growth in the private sector.

The Road Ahead: A Stable Path To Profitability

Looking to 2025, Saudi banks are positioned to continue benefiting from a thriving lending market. Corporate lending will remain a driving force, particularly as Vision 2030 continues to evolve and demand for financing rises. Although NPLs may see a slight increase, the banking sector’s strength in terms of provisions and a favorable credit environment will provide a cushion.

With a diversified economy and continued strong performance in the non-oil sector, Saudi Arabia’s financial institutions are set for another profitable year. As they continue to align with the kingdom’s forward-looking initiatives, Saudi banks will likely play a central role in the ongoing transformation of the kingdom’s economic landscape.

In short, 2025 looks promising for Saudi Arabia’s banks. They are well-prepared to leverage the growing demand for corporate and mortgage lending while maintaining strong profitability through their involvement in the Vision 2030 agenda.

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