Hong Kong exchange expands Gulf presence with new Dubai commodities arm The emirate has positioned itself as a global commodities trading hub, with the UAE ranking second globally after the US in last year’s Commodity Trade Index. United Arab Emirates
US Senate approves repeal of Caesar Act sanctions on Syria: What to know The 2019 Caesar Act imposed sweeping sanctions on Syria to hold the government accountable for human rights abuses committed during the country’s civil war. Syria
Saudi investment minister visits Morocco, Senegal on Africa trade drive Saudi Arabia has pledged more than $41 billion in investment in sub-Saharan Africa over the next decade. Saudi Arabia
Iran, Russia, Central Asia states ink Caspian Sea pact, plan naval drills The navies of Iran, Russia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement on Wednesday, aimed at strengthening security in the Caspian Sea basin as the four countries deepen their relations. Iran
Hamas plans to continue using cryptocurrencies for operations Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz signed an order to seize more than $800,000 on cryptocurrency on its way to Hamas, but a spokesperson for the movement said that the Israeli announcement was exaggerated. Palestine
Despite pandemic, Israeli high-tech industry soars The Israeli high-tech sector has thrived through the end of 2021, with Israeli unicorns making more money than ever before and entering the US stock exchanges. Israel
Suez Canal to establish sovereign wealth fund The Suez Canal Authority has unveiled a plan to establish a sovereign wealth fund to shield the canal from fluctuations in global trade and crises like COVID-19. Egypt
Lebanon and Iraq ink defense cooperation agreement Lebanese Defense Minister Maurice Sleem is in Iraq for an official visit. News Brief
Egyptian travel companies profit on Turkey visits due to falling lira Egyptian tourism companies are seeking to take advantage of the low exchange rate of the Turkish lira to promote their programs in Turkey even after the summer season is over. Egypt
Egyptians carry on tradition of entrusting savings to gold Many Egyptians see gold as the safest investment option for their savings, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Egypt
Economic meltdown in Lebanon leaves pets homeless In Lebanon's ongoing economic collapse, hundreds of cats and dogs are thrown into the streets every month. Lebanon
UAE top destination for tourists from India The UAE is looking to enhance its trade ties with India and recently sent a delegation to the country. News Brief
Gaza's few Christians lift economy Gaza’s very small Christian community has been a strong force for the economy. Palestine
UN secretary-general says Lebanese politicians ‘paralyze' country, demands ‘truth' about Beirut blast United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Lebanon to meet with the country’s leaders amid the economic crisis. News Brief
US-Palestinian economic ties resume after 5 years Palestinians have reluctantly agreed to give the economic track a chance after it became obvious that there was no movement expected on the political track. Palestine
Egypt builds industrial city in Tanzania Egypt and Tanzania close ties are strengthened further by the inauguration of an Egyptian industrial city adjacent to the Tanzanian capital. Egypt