Arab Banker's Winter 2011 issue looks at the tumultuous developments across the Middle East and North Africa region and their current and perceived future impact on the banking and finance sector and financial markets in the region.

A rash of ratings actions, predicted in the last issue of Arab Banker, is explained in the context of investor anxieties, the rating agenicies' pragmatic drive and the situation on ground.

The momentous events in Sudan are examined from the financial perspective, with an outline of what it all means for inter-Arab investments.

The developing crisis in the eurozone and the holding pattern obtained by the Greek austerity programme is seen in this issue from a Middle Eastern perspective.

Plus, much, much more. Subscribe now to receive the print edition if you haven't done so already.

Arab Banker previous issue

The previous issue of Arab Banker offered a 'double bill' of focus on Egypt and Lebanon, with the latest updates on events in Tunisia. Our cover story looked at the fast-paced political developments in Egypt and how they impacted on the banking and finance sector, the regulatory environment and the economy as a whole.

One of the key questions addressed was whether ratings downgrades are relevant when banks with long track records of good governance and stability are affected by immediate-term developments. Should investors take the cue only from the ratings actions or hold their nerve and use instinct and information on ground as well?

There was, in this issue, a special analysis of the future direction of the banking and finance sector in Tunisia, now followed up in the new issue of Arab Banker.

The Lebanon Focus surveyed exemplary achievements of the Lebanese banking sector, celebrated in the ABA's Lebanese Banking Day in London, a template event to be followed with other events from member countries in the new year.

Download to read Arab Banker last issue.