UAE Non-Oil Business Activity Surges to Nine-Month High in December

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 The United Arab Emirates' non-oil private sector recorded its fastest expansion in nine months in December 2024, buoyed by strong domestic demand and increased business activity, according to the latest S&P Global Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. PMI Highlights Robust Growth The seasonally adjusted UAE PMI climbed to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, signaling robust growth well above the 50.0 threshold that separates expansion from contraction. This marked the third consecutive monthly increase, underscoring sustained recovery in the non-oil sector. Key drivers of growth included a notable rise in new business activity. The new orders subindex rose sharply to 59.3 in December from 58.0 in the previous month, reflecting strong domestic demand. Challenges Amid the Growth While domestic demand flourished, export growth slowed, with the export orders subindex dropping to a seven-month low. Additionally, businesses faced mounting backlogs due to capacity constraints,...

Citigroup's Middle East and Africa Business Set for Strong Revenue Growth Amidst Investment Banking Deals

 

Investments

Citigroup's Middle East and Africa business is poised for robust revenue growth this year, thanks to the continued momentum in investment banking deals and an upswing in debt capital market transactions. Ebru Pakcan, the head of the Middle East and Africa cluster at Citigroup, revealed in an interview with The National that the 29-market region is currently the fastest-growing for the US banking giant. Bolstered by its core business segments, including banking, markets, services, and wealth management operations, Citigroup is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory witnessed over the past five years.

Investment Banking Deals Driving Revenue Growth: Citigroup's Middle East and Africa business is benefiting from the sustained momentum in investment banking deals across the region. As economic activities thrive, companies are increasingly seeking financing and strategic advisory services, driving a surge in deal-making. This favorable environment positions Citigroup to capitalize on these opportunities and generate substantial revenue growth. With its expertise and global network, the bank is well-equipped to provide tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients.

Pick-up in Debt Capital Market Transactions: In addition to investment banking deals, the Middle East and Africa region are experiencing an upswing in debt capital market transactions. As governments, corporations, and institutions seek to raise capital, debt markets are becoming increasingly active. Citigroup's presence and experience in debt capital markets enable it to facilitate bond issuances, syndicated loans, and other debt-related transactions. This heightened activity is anticipated to contribute significantly to the bank's revenue growth in the region.

Steady Growth Trajectory: Citigroup's success in the Middle East and Africa region is not merely a result of short-term trends but a testament to its long-term growth strategy. By focusing on its core business segments and delivering exceptional client service, the bank has managed to maintain a positive growth trajectory over the past five years. The Middle East and Africa cluster has emerged as a key growth engine for Citigroup, leveraging the region's economic potential and the bank's extensive capabilities.

Citigroup's Middle East and Africa business is well-positioned for double-digit revenue growth this year, propelled by the sustained momentum in investment banking deals and the upswing in debt capital market transactions. With its strong presence, expertise, and commitment to client service, Citigroup is poised to capture the opportunities arising from the region's economic growth. The bank's focus on its core business segments and its ability to deliver tailored solutions will continue to drive its success and solidify its position as a leading financial institution in the Middle East and Africa region.

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