Lebanon arrests fmr economy minister Amin Salam on embezzlement charges The arrest comes nearly a year after the former central bank chief was arrested on charges of embezzlement and money laundering, among other things. Lebanon
EU commission removes UAE, adds Lebanon and Algeria to money laundering list: What to know The changes to the list are still pending approval from EU member states and the European Parliament, likely within the next month. United Arab Emirates
Turkey: $30M credit card scam hits tourists in coastal resort, 20 arrested The alleged ringleader, a hotel owner identified as "H.O.," stole the money by sharing credit card details of tourists checking into the property. Turkey
As Turkey's inflation dips to 35%, will central bank pivot on interest rates? Inflation has slowed to the lowest level since 2021, sparking speculation that the central bank could resume easing monetary policy amid mounting pressure on Turkey's finance chief — but analysts caution against a rush. Turkey
Analysis Gulf wealth funds weather US stock dip, target Amazon, Bitcoin in Q1 By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
Downward spiral causes crash in Egypt’s gold prices Gold prices sharply dropped in Egypt amid a drop of global prices after the US Federal Reserve hiked interest rates. Egypt
Turkey raises inflation forecasts The Turkish lira is also again falling close to historically low levels against the US dollar. Turkey
UAE Central Bank announces more sanctions The Emirates is seeking to improve its record on financial transparency after being implicated in money laundering and sanctions evasion controversies. Legacy: Gulf
How realistic are Ankara’s hopes of trading in Turkish liras? While the Turkish lira continues to tumble, Turkey’s currency swaps with China and other countries have failed to live up to their stated objective of boosting trade in local currencies, official data show. Turkey
Israeli banking reforms to facilitate fintech growth Israeli banking authorities are advance reforms to open Israel’s credit market and render it much more competitive. Israel
Egypt’s growing fintech ecosystem transforms country’s finances A population of over 100 million, young, largely unbanked, with a high penetration of internet and mobile subscriptions paves the way for innovation in Egypt's fintech sector. Egypt
Abu Dhabi port operator acquires stake in Egyptian shipping firms Gulf countries are interested in buying Egyptian assets as the country’s economy falters. Egypt
World Bank approves $500 million loan to Egypt for food security Egypt, like other countries in the region, is contending with food security and price increases related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Egypt
US deputy treasury secretary in Turkey to warn against evading Russian sanctions In a visit to Ankara Wednesday, US Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo plans to remind Turkey that anyone evading US sanctions against Russia will be held accountable. Turkey
Iran, Russia to establish trade centers The two countries will focus on energy-related trading and establishing a north-south corridor to rival the Suez Canal. Iran
Israel raises interest rates, following Gulf, US Inflation is rising throughout the Middle East and many countries' central banks are raising interest rates in response. Legacy: Gulf
