Economy and trade

Dropping interest rates could increase inflation in Iran

While high interest rates continue to keep liquidity locked into bank deposits, a nonholistic approach to job creation could lead lower interest rates to simply result in the return of high inflation.

Iran

As US disengages in North Africa, France's Macron looks to boost his profile

During his visit to Tunisia, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to bolster the country’s faltering economy.

Tunisia

MBS plans first US visit since becoming Saudi crown prince

Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation is high on the agenda for the upcoming trip.

Saudi Arabia

Will Brexit jump-start Iran-UK trade?

While bilateral trade has increased following the implementation of the nuclear deal, trade between Iran and Britain remains far below its potential.

Iran

Will Iran’s military really divest from business holdings?

Despite its complex challenges, the Iranian military’s planned divestment from the economy holds the potential for more transparency and accountability.

Iran

Why Gaza merchants are forgiving debt

A new social campaign in the Gaza Strip encourages debt forgiveness in light of people's economic straits due to the 11-year blockade.

Palestine

Rouhani moves to leverage unrest to loosen IRGC grip on economy

The Hassan Rouhani administration appears to be leveraging the recent protests in Iran to continue pushing for its agenda of greater accountability and lesser military involvement in the economy.

Iran

Tunisian protesters get seven-year itch

The austerity measures announced by the Tunisian government as part of this year's budget seem to be targeting the most vulnerable groups in society, including the middle class and the poor.

Tunisia

Rouhani doubles down on Iran's conservatives with 'digital economy' plan

Unlike conservatives, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani sees opportunities rather than threats in the expansion of the country's cyberspace.

Iran

Fearing aid slash, PA to collect more customs duties

The Palestinian Ministry of Finance is increasing customs duties on a range of goods, allegedly to protect local production, in light of a budget deficit of $1.07 billion in 2017 and threats of a drop in international aid to the PA.

Palestine

Controversy ensues in Egypt over Sisi's use of religious endowments

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is discussing the option of investing religious endowment assets in national development projects to promote the economy, although some point to issues of this action's legality.

Egypt

Is Turkey aligned with al-Qaeda affiliate in Idlib?

Russian-Turkish relations worsen as Syrian forces advance in Idlib; Al-Monitor leads media coverage of Iran’s financial crisis — by six months; the American University of Beirut dedicates "transformative" Halim and Aida Daniel Academic and Clinical Center.

Lebanon