National Bank of Abu Dhabi said higher interest and fee income would help it offset lower loan growth this year, keeping its top-line profit forecast on track.
The bank, the largest in the United Arab Emirates by market value, now expects lending to grow by 4-8 percent this year, CEO Michael Tomalin told an analyst call, as opposed to the 10-percent increase it forecast in the first two quarters of 2012.
However, Tomalin expected loan growth to recover in 2013, with a 10 percent rise currently forecast for next year.
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
UAE uses oil to build global influence | GulfNews.com
The UAE is one of several Gulf nations using its oil wealth to find new ways to build a position of substantial influence in the world. For many years, the ambitions of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations were directed internally as they struggled with the mammoth task of building the infrastructure and social systems that new nations required.
The UAE and its GCC partners occasionally took positions on Arab issues, but they were overwhelmingly focused on the vital tasks of building their own nations, like planning an education system, putting in modern infrastructure that businesses needed, and implementing clear laws that allow individuals to have confidence to invest.
But now they are looking further afield. Two important example of GCC activity are the UAE supporting Nato in Afghanistan and Libya, and Qatar and Saudi Arabia playing an active role in backing the Syrian opposition.
The UAE and its GCC partners occasionally took positions on Arab issues, but they were overwhelmingly focused on the vital tasks of building their own nations, like planning an education system, putting in modern infrastructure that businesses needed, and implementing clear laws that allow individuals to have confidence to invest.
But now they are looking further afield. Two important example of GCC activity are the UAE supporting Nato in Afghanistan and Libya, and Qatar and Saudi Arabia playing an active role in backing the Syrian opposition.
Abu Dhabi’s NBAD in Talks With Central Bank About New Loan Rules - Bloomberg
National Bank of Abu Dhabi PJSC said it’s in talks with the United Arab Emirates central bank to exclude its portfolio of “high-quality” bonds from a cap on lending to governments and state-linked companies.
The U.A.E. second-biggest bank by assets isn’t in compliance with regulations announced in April and “we do have some technical issues that we want to thrash out,” Chief Executive Officer Michael Tomalin said in a conference call with analysts today.
The central bank said April 4 banks cannot lend more than 100 percent of their capital to local governments and the same to state-related entities. Institutions had until Sept. 30 to comply. There was no limit under previous rules.
The U.A.E. second-biggest bank by assets isn’t in compliance with regulations announced in April and “we do have some technical issues that we want to thrash out,” Chief Executive Officer Michael Tomalin said in a conference call with analysts today.
The central bank said April 4 banks cannot lend more than 100 percent of their capital to local governments and the same to state-related entities. Institutions had until Sept. 30 to comply. There was no limit under previous rules.
MIDEAST WEEKAHEAD-Abu Dhabi property firm merger hopes drive market rally - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Hopes for a mammoth merger of real estate developers have buoyed Abu Dhabi's stock market in the last several months, but the market may now be strong enough to perform well even if the merger does not go through.
The emirate's two biggest developers, Aldar Properties and Sorouh Real Estate, announced in March that they were in talks on a state-backed merger that could create a company with about $15 billion in assets.
A tie-up between the firms, which have been hit hard by Abu Dhabi's property market slump, could benefit the stock market in several ways. Most importantly, it could help to support real estate prices in the emirate.
The emirate's two biggest developers, Aldar Properties and Sorouh Real Estate, announced in March that they were in talks on a state-backed merger that could create a company with about $15 billion in assets.
A tie-up between the firms, which have been hit hard by Abu Dhabi's property market slump, could benefit the stock market in several ways. Most importantly, it could help to support real estate prices in the emirate.
MIDEAST STOCKS-Investment concerns drag Egypt; Dana Gas plunges on sukuk repayment miss - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Shares in Egypt extended losses on Wednesday on investment safety concerns after a court declared London-listed Centamin's gold mine deal invalid, while UAE's Dana Gas tumbled on missing its sukuk repayment.
Cairo's index dropped 1.3 percent lower but is still hovering in a broad range between about 5,600 and 6,000
that has held since mid-September.
"Everyone is really worried about what is happening to investment in Egypt in general," said Ashraf Akhnoukh at CIBC brokerage. He said many investors see the Centamin news as a prompt to book profits.
Cairo's index dropped 1.3 percent lower but is still hovering in a broad range between about 5,600 and 6,000
that has held since mid-September.
"Everyone is really worried about what is happening to investment in Egypt in general," said Ashraf Akhnoukh at CIBC brokerage. He said many investors see the Centamin news as a prompt to book profits.
Abu Dhabi's ATIC sees profit in 2015, UAE plant on hold - CEO - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Investment Co (ATIC) expects to earn its first profit by 2015 as it scales up operations overseas, but plans to set up a chip manufacturing facility at home remain on hold, its chief executive said on Wednesday.
ATIC, owned by Abu Dhabi's official investment fund Mubadala and founded in 2008, is part of the emirate's drive to diversify its economy away from oil into technology sectors such as semiconductors.
The company owns unlisted Global Foundries, which has chip manufacturing facilities in Singapore, Germany and New York. Early this year, Global Foundries said it would invest more than $3 billion to fund expansion of its facilities.
ATIC, owned by Abu Dhabi's official investment fund Mubadala and founded in 2008, is part of the emirate's drive to diversify its economy away from oil into technology sectors such as semiconductors.
The company owns unlisted Global Foundries, which has chip manufacturing facilities in Singapore, Germany and New York. Early this year, Global Foundries said it would invest more than $3 billion to fund expansion of its facilities.
MIDEAST MONEY-Gulf railway boom to shape economies, politics - Yahoo! News Maktoob
A century after Lawrence of Arabia cut the Damascus-Medina railway, governments are embarking on plans to restore long-distance rail transport in the region and extend it across the Arabian Peninsula.
Official figures suggest around $100 billion may be spent by the end of this decade laying over 6,000 kilometres (3,750 miles) of track for both national lines and a route linking all the states in the Gulf Cooperation Council: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain.
The governments face big technical challenges, such as making six national rail systems compatible and building on the shifting sands of remote deserts.
But success could have far-reaching effects on economies in the region, cutting their dependence on expensive road and air travel, boosting trade and even bringing the GCC closer together politically.
Official figures suggest around $100 billion may be spent by the end of this decade laying over 6,000 kilometres (3,750 miles) of track for both national lines and a route linking all the states in the Gulf Cooperation Council: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain.
The governments face big technical challenges, such as making six national rail systems compatible and building on the shifting sands of remote deserts.
But success could have far-reaching effects on economies in the region, cutting their dependence on expensive road and air travel, boosting trade and even bringing the GCC closer together politically.
Bargain stock hunters target Saudi Arabia - FT.com
Regional equity traders are looking for cheap picks in Saudi Arabia after concerns over global economic growth and fears of weakness in the local building industry prompted investors to sell.
Analysts say a combination of oil price falls, deeper uncertainty over an ageing leadership and worries about the impact of possible bad loans to the construction industry, are troubling some investors. However, amid the gloom, others are seeing potential bargains.
EFG-Hermes, the largest Arab investment bank picked five companies this week that it says were oversold after the bank downgraded the Saudi stock market on October 9.
Analysts say a combination of oil price falls, deeper uncertainty over an ageing leadership and worries about the impact of possible bad loans to the construction industry, are troubling some investors. However, amid the gloom, others are seeing potential bargains.
EFG-Hermes, the largest Arab investment bank picked five companies this week that it says were oversold after the bank downgraded the Saudi stock market on October 9.
Spending leaves Gulf states ‘vulnerable’ - FT.com
Strong economic growth forecasts across Gulf countries mask a set of swelling uncertainties linked to heavy government spending, wider Arab world politics and potential volatility in the international oil price.
While the six-nation Gulf Co-operation Council is well-cushioned by oil money, many economists say there are doubts about the sustainability of expansion based mainly on buoyant crude markets and booming state investment and individual consumption.
While the six-nation Gulf Co-operation Council is well-cushioned by oil money, many economists say there are doubts about the sustainability of expansion based mainly on buoyant crude markets and booming state investment and individual consumption.
UPDATE 1-Kuwait's Zain aims to float Iraqi unit in Q1/2013 | Reuters
Kuwaiti mobile operator Zain said on Wednesday it aims to list its Iraqi unit by the end of the first quarter next year pending receipt of regulatory approvals.
Zain Iraq, along with rival operators Asiacell - a unit of Qatar Telecom (Qtel) - and France Telecom affiliate Korek must sell a quarter of their shares to investors via an Initial Public Offering (IPO) to meet the conditions for their mobile phone licenses in Iraq.
The operators have already missed a deadline of August 2011 for the IPOs and been fined for doing so.
Zain Iraq, along with rival operators Asiacell - a unit of Qatar Telecom (Qtel) - and France Telecom affiliate Korek must sell a quarter of their shares to investors via an Initial Public Offering (IPO) to meet the conditions for their mobile phone licenses in Iraq.
The operators have already missed a deadline of August 2011 for the IPOs and been fined for doing so.
MENA stock markets close - October 31, 2012
| Exchange | Status | Index | Change | ||||
 | |||||||
 | DFM (Dubai Financial Market) | 1619.61 | -0.17% | ||||
| ADX (Abudhabi Securities Exchange) | 2672.43 | 0.03% | ||||
 | KSE (Kuwait Stock Exchange) | 5766.96 | -0.05% | ||||
 | BSE (Bahrain Stock Exchange) | 1057.91 | -0.21% | ||||
 | |||||||
 | QE (Qatar Exchange) | 8546.49 | 0.29% | ||||
 | LSE (Beirut Stock Exchange) | 1109.52 | -0.05% | ||||
 | EGX 30 (Egypt Exchange) | 5695.93 | -1.25% | ||||
 | ASE (Amman Stock Exchange) | 1917.87 | 0.24% | ||||
 | TUNINDEX (Tunisia Stock Exchange) | 4894.22 | 0.43% | ||||
 | CB (Casablanca Stock Exchange) | 9440.73 | 0.09% | ||||
 | PSE (Palestine Securities Exchange) | 458.84 | 0.59% | ||||
Abu Dhabi to meet Asian investors in mid-Nov -sources | Reuters
The Abu Dhabi government plans to meet fixed-income investors in Asia during the second week of November for three days of roadshows, although no new sovereign bond issue is in the works, three sources familiar with the plan told Reuters on Wednesday.
The non-deal roadshows will be organised by HSBC, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity as the information isn't public.
The meetings are part of Abu Dhabi's regular programme of updating and engaging with investors, the sources said. Abu Dhabi last issued a sovereign bond in 2009.
The non-deal roadshows will be organised by HSBC, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity as the information isn't public.
The meetings are part of Abu Dhabi's regular programme of updating and engaging with investors, the sources said. Abu Dhabi last issued a sovereign bond in 2009.
Qatar’s flowering relationship with Paris - FT.com
When plans for Qatar to create a €50m euro fund to invest in some of Paris’s poorest suburbs emerged last month, the French political right and left united in disapproval. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Front, denounced the move as a plot to stoke Islamism in Paris’s Muslim-dominated districts, while the left-leaning Libération railed against the French government allegedly subcontracting its sovereign duties to a Middle Eastern state whose motives were suspect.
Yet the reaction shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the way Qatar operates globally and what it is trying to achieve. The pattern of its international relations shows its investments are geared primarily to three things: profit, security and building a brand that appeals to its western allies despite not being a democracy. The investment in the banlieue – long a scar on France’s social conscience – looks no different.
Yet the reaction shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the way Qatar operates globally and what it is trying to achieve. The pattern of its international relations shows its investments are geared primarily to three things: profit, security and building a brand that appeals to its western allies despite not being a democracy. The investment in the banlieue – long a scar on France’s social conscience – looks no different.
STOCKS NEWS MIDEAST-Dubai's large-caps drag index; Kuwait ends flat - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Dubai bourse gives back early-session gains as investors sell heavyweights, while Kuwait's bourse ends flat.
Emaar Properties and Emirates NBD shed 0.8 and 0.7 percent respectively.
Small-caps dominate trade after a set of positive quarterly earnings.
Union Properties rises 3 percent after the developer posted a profit of 50 million dirhams ($13.6 million) in the third quarter, swinging from a loss in the year-earlier period.
Emaar Properties and Emirates NBD shed 0.8 and 0.7 percent respectively.
Small-caps dominate trade after a set of positive quarterly earnings.
Union Properties rises 3 percent after the developer posted a profit of 50 million dirhams ($13.6 million) in the third quarter, swinging from a loss in the year-earlier period.
Dana Gas Drops as Debt Standstill Not Mentioned: Abu Dhabi Mover - Bloomberg
Dana Gas PJSC (DANA) shares were set for the biggest slump in almost two years after the fuel producer failed to confirm whether it had reached a so-called standstill agreement with bondholders for $1 billion of sukuk due today.
The shares tumbled 8.9 percent, headed for the biggest decline since January 2011, to 41 fils at 11:14 a.m. in Abu Dhabi. Dana Gas was the most traded by volume and the biggest decliner on Abu Dhabi’s benchmark ADX General Index. (ADSMI)
The Sharjah-based company said today it’s in talks to reach a consensual solution to restructure the sukuk, without providing details. A person familiar with the talks, speaking on condition of anonymity, said yesterday Dana Gas reached a standstill accord this month, under which creditors make no effort to collect debt payments thereby preventing a default.
The shares tumbled 8.9 percent, headed for the biggest decline since January 2011, to 41 fils at 11:14 a.m. in Abu Dhabi. Dana Gas was the most traded by volume and the biggest decliner on Abu Dhabi’s benchmark ADX General Index. (ADSMI)
The Sharjah-based company said today it’s in talks to reach a consensual solution to restructure the sukuk, without providing details. A person familiar with the talks, speaking on condition of anonymity, said yesterday Dana Gas reached a standstill accord this month, under which creditors make no effort to collect debt payments thereby preventing a default.
UPDATE 1-Dubai's Union Properties posts Q3 profit - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Union Properties posted a quarterly profit on Wednesday despite a decline in revenue, as the real estate developer stayed away from new projects to focus on existing developments.
The Dubai-listed firm made a third-quarter net profit of 50 million dirhams ($13.6 million) compared to a loss of 1.06 billion dirhams in the same period of 2011, according to a Reuters calculation.
The company, which reached a 3.8-billion dirham debt deal with major shareholder Emirates NBD earlier this year, did not provide quarterly figures. Profit for the nine months to Sept. 30 was 156 million dirhams versus a net loss 1.5 billion dirhams a year earlier, the firm said in a statement.
The Dubai-listed firm made a third-quarter net profit of 50 million dirhams ($13.6 million) compared to a loss of 1.06 billion dirhams in the same period of 2011, according to a Reuters calculation.
The company, which reached a 3.8-billion dirham debt deal with major shareholder Emirates NBD earlier this year, did not provide quarterly figures. Profit for the nine months to Sept. 30 was 156 million dirhams versus a net loss 1.5 billion dirhams a year earlier, the firm said in a statement.
Dana Gas says has been in talks on sukuk maturity - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Dana Gas has been in discussions with holders of its $920 million Islamic bond maturing Oct. 31 on a restructuring of the sukuk, the company said in a brief statement on Wednesday.
"Dana Gas confirms...it has been engaged in discussions with the Ad-Hoc Committee of Sukuk Certificate holders to reach a consensual solution to the restructuring of the sukuk, which it believes to be in the best interests of all stakeholders," it said without elaborating on how the talks had proceeded.
Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter, that Dana Gas was set to become the first United Arab Emirates company to fail to repay an Islamic bond on maturity.
"Dana Gas confirms...it has been engaged in discussions with the Ad-Hoc Committee of Sukuk Certificate holders to reach a consensual solution to the restructuring of the sukuk, which it believes to be in the best interests of all stakeholders," it said without elaborating on how the talks had proceeded.
Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter, that Dana Gas was set to become the first United Arab Emirates company to fail to repay an Islamic bond on maturity.
How to save for a happy retirement with gold, silver, oil, Dubai real estate, UAE stocks and more « ArabianMoney
The 32nd edition of the ArabianMoney investment newsletter is published today with a look at the macroeconomic impact of the US presidential election on investors. It’s a typically contrarian view. ArabianMoney believes in educating its readers to think for themselves and not to fall for the next sales pitch from an anonymous caller.
We get so many of them in a week that we sometimes lose count. It is supposed to be illegal to do this in the UAE and certainly is contrary to central bank rules. Of course some maybe offering genuine advice, then again we have little confidence in the recieved wisdom of experts. The consensus is usually wrong in investment.
We get so many of them in a week that we sometimes lose count. It is supposed to be illegal to do this in the UAE and certainly is contrary to central bank rules. Of course some maybe offering genuine advice, then again we have little confidence in the recieved wisdom of experts. The consensus is usually wrong in investment.
NMC Health lifted by medical sector gains - The National
NMC Health Group revenue jumped in the third quarter of the year, riding high on the growth of the country's burgeoning medical sector.
The healthcare division of the group made revenues of US$61.2 million between July and last month, a 17.5 per cent rise over the same period last year, the company reported. The market responded positively to the news with London-listed NMC shares trading at 187.40 pence at about midday, up 1.46 per cent.
The London-based investment banking group Numis Securities has a "buy" rating on the shares.
The healthcare division of the group made revenues of US$61.2 million between July and last month, a 17.5 per cent rise over the same period last year, the company reported. The market responded positively to the news with London-listed NMC shares trading at 187.40 pence at about midday, up 1.46 per cent.
The London-based investment banking group Numis Securities has a "buy" rating on the shares.
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
India frustrates Air Arabia - The National
Air Arabia's expansive ambitions in India are being held back by red tape preventing it from securing the rights it needs to launch more flights into the country.
The Sharjah-based low-cost airline already serves a significant portion of India, flying to 13 airports - including New Delhi, Mumbai, Goa and Jaipur.
"For the last two years we haven't grown in this market and we've been running at about 98 per cent seat factor, simply because we're not being granted any more rights into India," said Adel Ali, the chief executive of Air Arabia.
The Sharjah-based low-cost airline already serves a significant portion of India, flying to 13 airports - including New Delhi, Mumbai, Goa and Jaipur.
"For the last two years we haven't grown in this market and we've been running at about 98 per cent seat factor, simply because we're not being granted any more rights into India," said Adel Ali, the chief executive of Air Arabia.
Cairo property shows signs of life - The National
Cairo's property market is starting to experience signs of recovery after months of paralysis following the revolution.
According to the property agency Jones Lang LaSalle, life has begun to return to the Cairo market over the past three months as developers return to work on stalled projects.
The slight revival follows 18 months of political turmoil in which violence and street clashes forced companies to relocate office activities out of central Cairo, pushed foreigners out of the country and halted construction work.
According to the property agency Jones Lang LaSalle, life has begun to return to the Cairo market over the past three months as developers return to work on stalled projects.
The slight revival follows 18 months of political turmoil in which violence and street clashes forced companies to relocate office activities out of central Cairo, pushed foreigners out of the country and halted construction work.
Sinking ships on troubled waters - The National
The oil tanker industry is steaming into choppy economic waters.
A global glut in capacity has claimed two more major victims in the past week.
Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) is preparing to file for bankruptcy protection in the United States, while Euronav in Belgium is poised to sell off part of its fleet after posting a third-quarter loss.
A global glut in capacity has claimed two more major victims in the past week.
Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) is preparing to file for bankruptcy protection in the United States, while Euronav in Belgium is poised to sell off part of its fleet after posting a third-quarter loss.
Dubai Chamber looks to Syria’s future | GulfNews.com
While the devastating civil war is raging in Syria resulting in a human toll of 40,000, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry is looking to the future.
The Chamber announced on Tuesday that it will host a conference entitled ‘Partnership to invest in Future Syria’ under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs on November 21 in Dubai.
Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, said that this move was made to boost and unify the efforts to support and rebuild Syria’s future and its economy.
The Chamber announced on Tuesday that it will host a conference entitled ‘Partnership to invest in Future Syria’ under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs on November 21 in Dubai.
Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, said that this move was made to boost and unify the efforts to support and rebuild Syria’s future and its economy.
Iraq must tap potential of natural gas | GulfNews.com
Natural gas has been in relative decline in Iraq for a long time now. The highs of the 1980s when two large processing plants and associated pipelines were built were followed by years of wars and sanctions and almost lack of investment and minimum maintenance and rehabilitation. The situation intensified since 2003, where the focus was centred on upstream deals with international oil companies with little regard to the downstream sector.
In reading the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) ‘Iraq Energy Outlook’, one discovers the uphill battle to achieve a measure of success in utilising this vital resource and the limited time frame available to avoid further enormous losses.
The IEA estimates that the gas flared in June 2012 was 1043 million cubic meters (mcm) out of a production of 1988 mcm or about 52.5 per cent at a time when the power generation industry is using liquids in the form of fuel, crude oil and even imported gas oil. Most of the flared gas is in the south for the lack of proper maintenance and rehabilitation of the South Gas processing facilities and the unfinished national gas pipeline to Baghdad and further north.
In reading the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) ‘Iraq Energy Outlook’, one discovers the uphill battle to achieve a measure of success in utilising this vital resource and the limited time frame available to avoid further enormous losses.
The IEA estimates that the gas flared in June 2012 was 1043 million cubic meters (mcm) out of a production of 1988 mcm or about 52.5 per cent at a time when the power generation industry is using liquids in the form of fuel, crude oil and even imported gas oil. Most of the flared gas is in the south for the lack of proper maintenance and rehabilitation of the South Gas processing facilities and the unfinished national gas pipeline to Baghdad and further north.
Middle East Sovereign Funds Keep Looking Towards Morocco - OpEd Eurasia Review
Morocco has set its sights on becoming a model for regional reform different from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Libya. This bodes very well for its future prosperity. Tourism has historically been one of Morocco’s most important industries. These reforms will avert the kind of turmoil which has kept visitors away from such countries as Egypt and Tunisia. Moreover, at the same time that it is opening up its political system, Morocco is committed to continuing to invest in its tourism industry.
It seems that Middle Eastern based sovereign funds are more keen on investing in hospitality and resort developments compared to their Asian and European peers. This is good news for the Kingdom of Morocco. Tourism is a key source of diversifiable revenue for the North African Kingdom of Morocco. The tourism industry in Morocco employs just below 500,000 people. Cash-strapped Morocco still suffers from high unemployment, a reliance on material exports, and has a young demographic profile.
It seems that Middle Eastern based sovereign funds are more keen on investing in hospitality and resort developments compared to their Asian and European peers. This is good news for the Kingdom of Morocco. Tourism is a key source of diversifiable revenue for the North African Kingdom of Morocco. The tourism industry in Morocco employs just below 500,000 people. Cash-strapped Morocco still suffers from high unemployment, a reliance on material exports, and has a young demographic profile.
Oman’s economy to grow by 5% in 2012, says IMF - Muscat Daily
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that Oman's gross domestic product (GDP) growth will slow to five per cent in 2012 from 5.4 per cent last year. The Fund also anticipates that Oman's economic growth will slow further to 3.9 per cent in 2013.
In its report titled 'Economic prospects and policy challenges for the GCC countries', the Washington-based IMF has predicted Oman's fiscal surplus will be 7.1 per cent of GDP this year, down from 8.1 per cent in 2011. In line with other GCC countries, Oman's fiscal surplus is estimated to decline to 5.8 per cent of GDP in 2013.
The Fund estimates that the combined GDP growth of all the GCC states will be 5.6 per cent in 2012, down from 7.5 per cent in 2011, while the combined fiscal surplus of GCC countries is projected to be 14.6 per cent of the GDP this year.
In its report titled 'Economic prospects and policy challenges for the GCC countries', the Washington-based IMF has predicted Oman's fiscal surplus will be 7.1 per cent of GDP this year, down from 8.1 per cent in 2011. In line with other GCC countries, Oman's fiscal surplus is estimated to decline to 5.8 per cent of GDP in 2013.
The Fund estimates that the combined GDP growth of all the GCC states will be 5.6 per cent in 2012, down from 7.5 per cent in 2011, while the combined fiscal surplus of GCC countries is projected to be 14.6 per cent of the GDP this year.
Saudis seek private court in London - FT.com
Saudi Arabia will lobby the UK government as early as November to set up a confidential court in London that would settle multimillion pound commercial disputes arising from the Middle Eastern kingdom.
The Saudis hope that a London-based arbitration centre would help counter investor concerns about the Saudi Arabian legal system and thus boost foreign investment into the kingdom.
If the plans are realised, the court could hear some of the most high-value and sensitive legal claims in the world.
The Saudis hope that a London-based arbitration centre would help counter investor concerns about the Saudi Arabian legal system and thus boost foreign investment into the kingdom.
If the plans are realised, the court could hear some of the most high-value and sensitive legal claims in the world.
FINANCE - Istanbul stock exchange reaches its historic high
The Istanbul bourse crowns its days-long march by breaking its historic record as the market expectations for a rating upgrade by one of the leading international agencies heat up
The main 100 index of the Istanbul Stock Exchange (İMKB) hit a historic high yesterday at 71.717 points, surpassing the Nov. 9, 2010 record, after a two-week long climb unaffected by a nearly one-week-long public holiday.
A relatively positive report by international credit agency Moody’s yesterday triggered the nearly 1.5 percent climb from Oct. 25, the day the bourse was closed before the Eid al-Adha, or Feast of the Sacrifice, holiday. The stock exchange was also closed on Oct. 29 for Republic Day.
The main 100 index of the Istanbul Stock Exchange (İMKB) hit a historic high yesterday at 71.717 points, surpassing the Nov. 9, 2010 record, after a two-week long climb unaffected by a nearly one-week-long public holiday.
A relatively positive report by international credit agency Moody’s yesterday triggered the nearly 1.5 percent climb from Oct. 25, the day the bourse was closed before the Eid al-Adha, or Feast of the Sacrifice, holiday. The stock exchange was also closed on Oct. 29 for Republic Day.
MENA stock markets close - October 30, 2012
| Exchange | Status | Index | Change | ||||
| |||||||
| DFM (Dubai Financial Market) | 1622.35 | 0.02% | ||||
| ADX (Abudhabi Securities Exchange) | 2671.69 | 0.03% | ||||
| KSE (Kuwait Stock Exchange) | 5769.84 | -0.01% | ||||
| |||||||
| |||||||
| QE (Qatar Exchange) | 8521.37 | 0.06% | ||||
| LSE (Beirut Stock Exchange) | 1110.02 | -0.29% | ||||
| EGX 30 (Egypt Exchange) | 5768.2 | -2.12% | ||||
| ASE (Amman Stock Exchange) | 1913.33 | 0.43% | ||||
| TUNINDEX (Tunisia Stock Exchange) | 4873.15 | -0.60% | ||||
| CB (Casablanca Stock Exchange) | 9393.45 | -0.78% | ||||
| |||||||
MIDEAST STOCKS-Dana Gas drops on sukuk news; Gulf mkts flat | Reuters
Shares in Abu Dhabi-listed Dana Gas tumbled on Tuesday to their lowest finish since Oct. 4 after sources familiar with the matter said the firm would not repay its sukuk on maturity. But Gulf stock markets finished near-flat in quiet trade, amid a post-holiday lull in activity.
Shares in Dana dropped 4.3 percent to 0.43 dirhams, having dipped 8.5 percent intra-day. Dana has reached a standstill agreement with bondholders on its $920 million convertible sukuk maturing Oct. 31, which is effective for up to six months, the sources told Reuters. Dana declined to comment.
"This is going to shake the faith of investors (in sukuk) big time," said a Dubai-based trader, who asked not to be identified. If the payment is not made on Wednesday, Dana will become the first UAE company not to repay a sukuk on maturity.
Shares in Dana dropped 4.3 percent to 0.43 dirhams, having dipped 8.5 percent intra-day. Dana has reached a standstill agreement with bondholders on its $920 million convertible sukuk maturing Oct. 31, which is effective for up to six months, the sources told Reuters. Dana declined to comment.
"This is going to shake the faith of investors (in sukuk) big time," said a Dubai-based trader, who asked not to be identified. If the payment is not made on Wednesday, Dana will become the first UAE company not to repay a sukuk on maturity.
Dana Gas’s $920m sukuk: confusion reigns on eve of maturity | beyondbrics
People close to Dana Gas, the Sharjah-based natural gas company, say creditors including funds Blackrock and Ashmore have agreed to a standstill that would allow talks over extending the maturity of its $920m sukuk to continue through the deadline of midnight on Wednesday.
But people aware of the creditors’ position “categorically deny” that a standstill agreement has been reached with Dana Gas, whose revenues have been interrupted in troubled operating environments including Egypt and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Under a standstill agreement, creditors generally agree not to seek to enforce their rights in the event of non-payment by a debtor.
But people aware of the creditors’ position “categorically deny” that a standstill agreement has been reached with Dana Gas, whose revenues have been interrupted in troubled operating environments including Egypt and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Under a standstill agreement, creditors generally agree not to seek to enforce their rights in the event of non-payment by a debtor.
Gazprom pushes on with South Stream | beyondbrics
Russian energy giant Gazprom is set to push ahead with its controversial South Stream gas pipeline which will run to the heart of Europe, while progress on an EU-backed rival project is, as usual, patchier.
On Monday, Srbijagas – a Serbian government-owned monopoly – announced that it would start work on the 470km, €1.7bn stretch of South Stream running through Serbian territory in December.
The statement came after the signing of an agreement with Gazprom, the project’s main backer. The pipeline is expected to carry Russian gas under the Black Sea through the Balkan Peninsula to termini in Greece, Italy and Austria. The Serbian section is expected to carry up to 40bn cubic metres of gas per year, generating €200m in transit revenue per year, according to Srbijagas chief Dusan Bajatovic. Bajatovic says that the pipeline should be complete by December 2015.
On Monday, Srbijagas – a Serbian government-owned monopoly – announced that it would start work on the 470km, €1.7bn stretch of South Stream running through Serbian territory in December.
The statement came after the signing of an agreement with Gazprom, the project’s main backer. The pipeline is expected to carry Russian gas under the Black Sea through the Balkan Peninsula to termini in Greece, Italy and Austria. The Serbian section is expected to carry up to 40bn cubic metres of gas per year, generating €200m in transit revenue per year, according to Srbijagas chief Dusan Bajatovic. Bajatovic says that the pipeline should be complete by December 2015.
Qatar Insurance approves $134.2 mln share sale to Qatar Holding - Yahoo! News Maktoob
The board of Qatar Insurance has approved the sale of shares worth 488.6 million riyals ($134.2 million) to state fund Qatar Holding, the insurer said in a bourse filing on Tuesday.
The fund purchased 7.76 million shares at 63 riyals each, raising its capital to 969.4 million riyals. The capital hike still requires the approval of the Ministry of Business and other regulatory authorities, as well as existing shareholders, the statement said.
Qatar Holding's presence as a strategic partner would strengthen the financial position of the company and help it to compete against major insurance companies at a regional and international level, the statement added.
The fund purchased 7.76 million shares at 63 riyals each, raising its capital to 969.4 million riyals. The capital hike still requires the approval of the Ministry of Business and other regulatory authorities, as well as existing shareholders, the statement said.
Qatar Holding's presence as a strategic partner would strengthen the financial position of the company and help it to compete against major insurance companies at a regional and international level, the statement added.
STOCKS NEWS MIDEAST-Dana Gas drops; Dubai ends flat in thin trade - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Abu Dhabi-listed Dana Gas tumbles to its lowest finish since Oct. 4 after sources said the firm will miss repayment of a sukuk, while UAE bourses end near-flat. Shares in Dana drop 4.3 percent to 0.43 dirhams, its lowest finish since Oct. 4, having traded down 8.5 percent intra-day. Dana has reached a standstill agreement with bondholders on its $920 million sukuk maturing Oct. 31, which is effective for up to six months, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Heavyweights limit declines on the bourse. Telecom operator Etisalat and First Gulf Bank gain 0.4 and 1
percent respectively.
Abu Dhabi's measure ticks up 0.03 percent to close at 2,672 points, a fresh 14-month high.
Heavyweights limit declines on the bourse. Telecom operator Etisalat and First Gulf Bank gain 0.4 and 1
percent respectively.
Abu Dhabi's measure ticks up 0.03 percent to close at 2,672 points, a fresh 14-month high.
WAM | Etihad Airways Welcomes Virgin Australia Equity Investment
Etihad Airways has welcomed the announcement by Virgin Australia that it is to acquire a majority stake in Tiger Airways and has reached an in-principle agreement to purchase Skywest Airlines.
Etihad Airways holds a 10 per cent stake in Virgin Australia Holdings.
James Hogan, President and CEO of Etihad Airways, said: "These investments by Virgin Australia consolidate its position today as Australia's most successful and fastest-developing airline. The addition of Tiger and Skywest into its portfolio can only help Virgin Australia's competitive position in the Australian market and across the Asia-Pacific region. We welcome this exciting move by Virgin." Etihad Airways and Virgin Australia have developed a highly successful, multi-tiered partnership that includes code-sharing on flights, joint marketing initiatives and reciprocal earn-and-burn on their respective frequent flier programs.
Etihad Airways holds a 10 per cent stake in Virgin Australia Holdings.
James Hogan, President and CEO of Etihad Airways, said: "These investments by Virgin Australia consolidate its position today as Australia's most successful and fastest-developing airline. The addition of Tiger and Skywest into its portfolio can only help Virgin Australia's competitive position in the Australian market and across the Asia-Pacific region. We welcome this exciting move by Virgin." Etihad Airways and Virgin Australia have developed a highly successful, multi-tiered partnership that includes code-sharing on flights, joint marketing initiatives and reciprocal earn-and-burn on their respective frequent flier programs.
Dubai Sept passenger traffic up 12.8 pct y/y | Reuters
Passenger traffic at Dubai International Airport climbed 12.8 percent from a year earlier in September, as a larger flow of European travellers offset a drop in traffic on some Middle Eastern routes due to turmoil in countries such as Syria.
The airport, one of the world's busiest, handled 4.78 million passengers in September, up from 4.24 million in the prior-year period, Dubai Airports said on Tuesday.
Year-to-date traffic grew 13.4 percent to 42.57 million passengers compared to 37.55 million recorded during the corresponding period last year.
The airport, one of the world's busiest, handled 4.78 million passengers in September, up from 4.24 million in the prior-year period, Dubai Airports said on Tuesday.
Year-to-date traffic grew 13.4 percent to 42.57 million passengers compared to 37.55 million recorded during the corresponding period last year.
UAE govt approves 2013 federal budget, no deficit | Reuters
The United Arab Emirates government approved a 2013 federal budget with expenditure of 44.6 billion dirhams ($12.1 billion) and no deficit, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum said on Tuesday.
"There was a meeting of the Council of Ministers. We approved the draft budget for 2013 with total spending of 44.6 billion dirhams, without a deficit," Sheikh Mohammed, who is also Dubai's ruler, wrote on his official Twitter account.
"The government's plan over the coming three years is to spend 133 billion dirhams for strategic plan development," he also said.
The UAE federal budget accounts for only around 11 percent of overall fiscal spending in the UAE, with individual emirates accounting for the rest.
"There was a meeting of the Council of Ministers. We approved the draft budget for 2013 with total spending of 44.6 billion dirhams, without a deficit," Sheikh Mohammed, who is also Dubai's ruler, wrote on his official Twitter account.
"The government's plan over the coming three years is to spend 133 billion dirhams for strategic plan development," he also said.
The UAE federal budget accounts for only around 11 percent of overall fiscal spending in the UAE, with individual emirates accounting for the rest.
Credit Suisse, Qatar Said to Start Asset-Management Venture - SFGate
Credit Suisse Group AG and a unit of Qatar Investment Authority, the Persian Gulf emirate’s sovereign-wealth fund, plan to start an asset-management joint venture, three people with knowledge of the matter said.
The unit will be based in Doha and focus on Middle East and North African investments, according to one of the people, who asked not to be named and declined to give more details on the venture, citing the sensitivity of the talks. The venture may be announced this year after 12 months of negotiations between Zurich-based Credit Suisse and Qatar, two people said. It will also solicit third-party funds, according to one of the people.
Qatar and Credit Suisse are boosting ties after the nation took a 6 percent stake in the bank and bought its London headquarters. The country, which has the world’s third-largest gas reserves, is snapping up assets across the globe as it seeks to reduce its energy dependency and has $30 billion to invest this year, QIA board member Hussain Al Abdulla said in April.
The unit will be based in Doha and focus on Middle East and North African investments, according to one of the people, who asked not to be named and declined to give more details on the venture, citing the sensitivity of the talks. The venture may be announced this year after 12 months of negotiations between Zurich-based Credit Suisse and Qatar, two people said. It will also solicit third-party funds, according to one of the people.
Qatar and Credit Suisse are boosting ties after the nation took a 6 percent stake in the bank and bought its London headquarters. The country, which has the world’s third-largest gas reserves, is snapping up assets across the globe as it seeks to reduce its energy dependency and has $30 billion to invest this year, QIA board member Hussain Al Abdulla said in April.
UAE's Dana Gas will not repay $920 mln sukuk on maturity-sources | Reuters
Dana Gas, the United Arab Emirates' largest listed natural gas firm, will not repay a $920 million convertible Islamic bond when it matures on Wednesday and has reached a standstill agreement with bondholders, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Sharjah-based Dana, hit by payment delays from Egypt and Iraq's Kurdistan region, had a $1 billion sukuk maturing on Oct. 31. It repurchased about $80 million of the sukuk in 2008, leaving $920 million outstanding.
The five-year sukuk, which was issued with a 7.5 percent coupon, has gained international interest as a large chunk of the debt is owned by large investment firms including BlackRock Inc, Ashmore Group and Spinnaker Capital.
Sharjah-based Dana, hit by payment delays from Egypt and Iraq's Kurdistan region, had a $1 billion sukuk maturing on Oct. 31. It repurchased about $80 million of the sukuk in 2008, leaving $920 million outstanding.
The five-year sukuk, which was issued with a 7.5 percent coupon, has gained international interest as a large chunk of the debt is owned by large investment firms including BlackRock Inc, Ashmore Group and Spinnaker Capital.
UPDATE 1-DP World's terminal volumes drop slightly - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Dubai port operator DP World, which recently disposed of stakes in some non-core assets, reported a slight decline in its consolidated terminal volumes for the third quarter.
The world's third-largest port operator said on Tuesday that terminals in which it owns majority stakes recorded a 0.7 percent year-on-year fall to 6.94 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in the third quarter.
This was because the Asia-Pacific and Indian subcontinent region and the Europe, Middle East and Africa region reported lower volumes.
The world's third-largest port operator said on Tuesday that terminals in which it owns majority stakes recorded a 0.7 percent year-on-year fall to 6.94 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in the third quarter.
This was because the Asia-Pacific and Indian subcontinent region and the Europe, Middle East and Africa region reported lower volumes.
BRIEF-Abu Dhabi's ADIB eyes capital boost through sukuk sale - leads | Reuters
ABU DHABI ISLAMIC BANK:
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank to hold investor meetings ahead of potential sukuk sale - leads
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank picks HSBC Morgan Stanley National Bank of Abu Dhabi, StanChart and itself for potential deal
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank plans to sell Tier 1 perpetual sukuk instrument;
roadshows start October 31
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank to hold investor meetings ahead of potential sukuk sale - leads
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank picks HSBC Morgan Stanley National Bank of Abu Dhabi, StanChart and itself for potential deal
* Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank plans to sell Tier 1 perpetual sukuk instrument;
roadshows start October 31
Kuwait's Gulf Bank Q3 net profit rises 5.6 pct | Reuters
Gulf Bank, Kuwait's fourth-largest lender by market value, reported a 5.6 percent rise in third-quarter net profit, the bank said in a bourse filing on Tuesday.
Net profit for the three months ending September 30 was 9.62 million dinars ($34.1 million), compared with 9.11 million dinars in the same period a year ago, the bank said in the statement.
Arqaam Capital had forecasted Gulf Bank would make a 10 million dinars profit in the third quarter.
Net profit for the three months ending September 30 was 9.62 million dinars ($34.1 million), compared with 9.11 million dinars in the same period a year ago, the bank said in the statement.
Arqaam Capital had forecasted Gulf Bank would make a 10 million dinars profit in the third quarter.
Gulf investors raising stake in Turkish real estate market | A1SaudiArabia.com
Foreign buyers are increasingly attracted to Turkish property with a marked rise from overseas planning to buy, industry experts said.
Foreign investors are becoming aware of possibilities in Turkey, particularly in Istanbul, with a booming economy and relatively cheap prices, meaning there is the potential to pick up a bargain.
Traditionally, foreign buyers have focused on holiday homes along the country’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
Foreign investors are becoming aware of possibilities in Turkey, particularly in Istanbul, with a booming economy and relatively cheap prices, meaning there is the potential to pick up a bargain.
Traditionally, foreign buyers have focused on holiday homes along the country’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
Two-week suspension for trade of NBAD's ETF during restructuring - The National
National Bank of Abu Dhabi's exchange traded fund (ETF) of UAE equities will be suspended for trading for two weeks next month to complete a restructuring process.
When it resumes trading, the fund will buy equities directly through the market rather than derivatives.
The lender also plans to switch the fund's benchmark from Dow Jones to MSCI.
When it resumes trading, the fund will buy equities directly through the market rather than derivatives.
The lender also plans to switch the fund's benchmark from Dow Jones to MSCI.
Crescent will not bail out Dana Gas - The National
The top shareholder in Dana Gas has ruled out a bailout just days before a US$920 million (Dh3.37 billion) sukuk matures.
Crescent Petroleum, a Sharjah company that owns 21 per cent of Dana Gas, repeated a position first made public in May that it would not consider a cash injection.
"As far as a bailout from the shareholders, no, we ruled that out," said Majid Jafar, the chief executive of Crescent, which also shares concessions with Dana in Iraq and Egypt.
Crescent Petroleum, a Sharjah company that owns 21 per cent of Dana Gas, repeated a position first made public in May that it would not consider a cash injection.
"As far as a bailout from the shareholders, no, we ruled that out," said Majid Jafar, the chief executive of Crescent, which also shares concessions with Dana in Iraq and Egypt.
Arab roots a boon in Crescent Petroleum expansion - The National
Crescent Petroleum, the Sharjah oil producer, plans to move into post-Arab Spring countries that it believes will be friendly to regional investment.
It is renewing talks with Egypt to create an industrial cluster and is feeling out opportunities in Libya to take over concessions left behind by other foreign investors. Royal Dutch Shell was the latest major to abandon a Libya concession this year, citing geological prospects.
"The Arab Spring has increased the risk perception for foreign companies, and we see even the large western companies slowing down their investment or putting some projects on hold, and we see the medium-sized ones and smaller ones are just leaving altogether from these countries," said Majid Jafar, Crescent's chief executive.
It is renewing talks with Egypt to create an industrial cluster and is feeling out opportunities in Libya to take over concessions left behind by other foreign investors. Royal Dutch Shell was the latest major to abandon a Libya concession this year, citing geological prospects.
"The Arab Spring has increased the risk perception for foreign companies, and we see even the large western companies slowing down their investment or putting some projects on hold, and we see the medium-sized ones and smaller ones are just leaving altogether from these countries," said Majid Jafar, Crescent's chief executive.
Lawyer asks court to join former Deyaar CEO’s five graft cases | GulfNews.com
The lawyer of Deyaar’s former CEO American-Lebanese, Z.S, asked a court on Monday to club his client’s five graft cases into one because they are linked together.
“We, as defence, and the Public Prosecution agree on a major argument that my client [Z.S.] currently faces five court cases of corruption. The five cases are linked and that’s why we would like to ask the bench of judges to club the five cases in one.
“The fact that my client is being tried five times over the same charges is unfounded,” advocate Hassan Juma Al Raisi contended before the Dubai Court of First Instance.
“We, as defence, and the Public Prosecution agree on a major argument that my client [Z.S.] currently faces five court cases of corruption. The five cases are linked and that’s why we would like to ask the bench of judges to club the five cases in one.
“The fact that my client is being tried five times over the same charges is unfounded,” advocate Hassan Juma Al Raisi contended before the Dubai Court of First Instance.
Saudi retailer puts up strong second quarter results | GulfNews.com
Saudi fashion retailer Fawaz A. Alhokair and Co. recorded net profits of 252.4 million Saudi riyals in the three months to end September from a 25 per cent year-on-year gain. The retailer’s network includes stores for Zara, Marks & Spencer, Gap and Aldo, among others. There was also a network expansion — by more than 120 stores — brought on by the acquisition of the Nesk Group. “Our expansion strategy across brand acquisitions and new store introductions has allowed us to keep our offerings to our customers up to date with the latest fashions,” said Simon Marshall, CEO.
Business - Etihad Rail: Abu Dhabi-Dubai route confirmed
The UAE’s rail network project has made headway as the route between Abu Dhabi and Dubai has been agreed upon, a top official said.
According to Falah Al Ahbabi, who heads the Federal Government Committee on Etihad Rail, further confirmed that the required land has been completely allocated.
This information was revealed at the first meeting of the committee, which reviewed the route of stages two and three of the rail network and the process for ensuring the necessary land allocation to connect the country’s ports, industrial areas and urban communities.
According to Falah Al Ahbabi, who heads the Federal Government Committee on Etihad Rail, further confirmed that the required land has been completely allocated.
This information was revealed at the first meeting of the committee, which reviewed the route of stages two and three of the rail network and the process for ensuring the necessary land allocation to connect the country’s ports, industrial areas and urban communities.
Dubai Oasis Drying Up as Property Rally Nears Edge: Arab Credit - Bloomberg
The rally that sent real estate company bond yields in Dubai to record lows risks petering out because the emirate’s property recovery may not be broad enough to justify further price gains.
Dubai Holding Commercial Operations’ January 2014 and February 2017 bonds were cut to hold from buy at Exotix Ltd. after yields fell to the lowest since 2007 this month. Emaar Properties PJSC (EMAAR)’s August 2016 note yields rose nine basis points to 4.44 percent yesterday since Oct. 23, when the company reported third-quarter profit that missed estimates. Property company Nakheel PJSC’s 10 percent sukuk, or Islamic bonds, due June 2016 have “little upside potential,” Exotix said.
A nascent real estate recovery in Dubai has been limited to a few areas in the emirate, which suffered a property slump in the past four years causing values to fall by as much as 65 percent. While the pick up is set to continue, opportunities in the bond market are limited at current prices, Exotix, National Bank of Abu Dhabi PJSC (NBAD) and Emirates Investment Bank PJSC (EIBANK) say.
Dubai Holding Commercial Operations’ January 2014 and February 2017 bonds were cut to hold from buy at Exotix Ltd. after yields fell to the lowest since 2007 this month. Emaar Properties PJSC (EMAAR)’s August 2016 note yields rose nine basis points to 4.44 percent yesterday since Oct. 23, when the company reported third-quarter profit that missed estimates. Property company Nakheel PJSC’s 10 percent sukuk, or Islamic bonds, due June 2016 have “little upside potential,” Exotix said.
A nascent real estate recovery in Dubai has been limited to a few areas in the emirate, which suffered a property slump in the past four years causing values to fall by as much as 65 percent. While the pick up is set to continue, opportunities in the bond market are limited at current prices, Exotix, National Bank of Abu Dhabi PJSC (NBAD) and Emirates Investment Bank PJSC (EIBANK) say.
Monday, 29 October 2012
Abu Dhabi's TAQA seeks new terms for Dutch gas transport tariffs | Reuters
Abu Dhabi National Energy Co (TAQA) said it is in talks with the Dutch government on changing the basis of gas transport tariffs to make the 4.1 billion cubic metre (bcm) Bergermeer storage facility competitive.
Bergermeer, along with a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Rotterdam, is an important part of the Netherlands' plan to become a European hub for distribution of imported natural gas once the country stops exporting its own gas output in 2025.
Jan Willem van Hoogstraten, managing director of TAQA's Dutch branch, said on Monday that at present a company wanting to use storage pays twice to enter the Dutch grid - once when gas crosses into the Netherlands and once when it comes out of storage.
Bergermeer, along with a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Rotterdam, is an important part of the Netherlands' plan to become a European hub for distribution of imported natural gas once the country stops exporting its own gas output in 2025.
Jan Willem van Hoogstraten, managing director of TAQA's Dutch branch, said on Monday that at present a company wanting to use storage pays twice to enter the Dutch grid - once when gas crosses into the Netherlands and once when it comes out of storage.
Kuwait's AA rating threatened by political protests-Fitch - Yahoo! News Maktoob
Fitch Ratings put Kuwait on warning that a further escalation of political protests there could put its AA sovereign credit rating under pressure for a downgrade despite the nation's strong balance sheet.
On Monday, the credit rating firm said recent popular protests over a change in the election law decreed by the ruling emir "suggests a radicalisation of the political scene."
"Prolonged political stalemate could also undermine Kuwait's rating through its impact on the economy," Fitch said in a statement.
On Monday, the credit rating firm said recent popular protests over a change in the election law decreed by the ruling emir "suggests a radicalisation of the political scene."
"Prolonged political stalemate could also undermine Kuwait's rating through its impact on the economy," Fitch said in a statement.
Egypt Exchange close - October 29, 2012
Abudhabi Securities Exchange close - October 29, 2012
Dubai Financial Market close - October 29, 2012
TEXT-S&P: ratings on 4 Abu Dhabi GREs unaffected by debt policy | Reuters
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said today that the ratings on four Abu Dhabi-based government-related entities (GREs) are unaffected by the recently publicized directive on public debt policy, endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The entities are:
-- Abu Dhabi National Energy Co. PJSC (TAQA) (A/Stable/--)
-- International Petroleum Investment Co. (IPIC) (AA/Stable/A-1+)
-- Mubadala Development Co. PJSC (AA/Stable/A-1+)
-- Tourism Development and Investment Co. P.J.S.C. (TDIC) (AA/Stable/A-1+)
In our view, the public debt policy does not change the government's perception of the role for and link to the government of these four entities. The policy does not change our current view of the government's capacity or willingness to support these GREs in the event of their financial distress. Hence, our ratings on these entities are unaffected by the public debt policy.
-- Abu Dhabi National Energy Co. PJSC (TAQA) (A/Stable/--)
-- International Petroleum Investment Co. (IPIC) (AA/Stable/A-1+)
-- Mubadala Development Co. PJSC (AA/Stable/A-1+)
-- Tourism Development and Investment Co. P.J.S.C. (TDIC) (AA/Stable/A-1+)
In our view, the public debt policy does not change the government's perception of the role for and link to the government of these four entities. The policy does not change our current view of the government's capacity or willingness to support these GREs in the event of their financial distress. Hence, our ratings on these entities are unaffected by the public debt policy.
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