Economic Updates: Kuwait

Kuwait: Banking prudence and profit

The Middle East | 20 Nov 2012

The continued conservative approach of Kuwaiti banks, both Islamic and conventional, seems to be paying off, with a number of institutions posting strong returns for the third quarter and several banks reporting double-digit quarterly increases in net profits for the period.

Kuwait: Long-term production

The Middle East | 5 Nov 2012

As Kuwait moves to ramp up oil production, it is preparing to take advantage of rising demand in Asian markets and stable oil prices. However, there are concerns that the country could be draining off its hydrocarbons reserves quickly and spending too much on subsidies and social support schemes and not enough on investments.

Kuwait: Improving connectivity

The Middle East | 19 Oct 2012

In recent weeks, the Ministry of Communications (MoC) has ordered Kuwait’s internet service providers (ISPs) to reduce their pricing by at least 40%. While this move could boost the number of users, some industry participants say that it is the ageing, government-owned, fixed-line communications infrastructure and lack of a clear regulatory framework – and not elevated pricing – that is limiting market expansion.

Kuwait: Investing in the future

The Middle East | 5 Oct 2012

The government has announced plans to increase allocations to a key investment fund although there are still questions on how this move will affect state spending at home. The decision to strengthen the investment fund comes at a time when the government is also seeking to boost the domestic economy through its latest five-year National Development Plan (NDP).

Kuwait: Infrastructure expansion

The Middle East | 26 Sep 2012

The construction industry in Kuwait is poised for significant growth on the back of major government investment in infrastructure projects and social facilities, according to data published in August. However, the continuing lack of an approved 2012 budget has effectively meant that the government cannot sign off on any new projects.

Kuwait: Surpluses and minuses

The Middle East | 12 Sep 2012

Whilst the economy is surging on the back of higher-than-forecast oil prices that are swelling the state coffers, concerns remain over the state’s long-term prospects.

Kuwait: Partnering in education

The Middle East | 28 Aug 2012

News that the government is seeking a transaction advisor for a new public-private partnership (PPP) schools project signals further opportunities for investors in Kuwait’s education sector.