Regional picture will shine brighter in 2010

Companies across the Middle East should see profits return next year and this, coupled with a recovering global economy, will prove good news for investors.

Next year will be a recovery year for the Middle East and North Africa. Higher oil prices, government spending, stronger banks and a gradual improvement in the global economy will all combine to boost activity across the region.

That’s good news for profit at many regional companies – but not all. Some industries will be quick out of the blocks, while others will take longer to regain momentum. In particular, we expect rapid earnings growth at banks and oil and gas companies next year, while real estate profits will recover more gradually.