Banking

Growth in the banking sector has maintained an upward trajectory in recent years, with banking assets growing and investors taking note of the favourable and robust regulatory environment. This, combined with the sector’s profitability, high penetration rates and investment in financial technology, has strengthened Bahrain’s position as a regional leader in banking. Bahrain’s proximity to Saudi Arabia, combined with the availability of an experienced banking workforce, the ease of recruiting expatriates and respect for the Central Bank of Bahrain, have seen it maintain a role as a regional, and in particular Saudi-focused, centre for financial services. This chapter contains an interview with Jean-Christophe Durand, CEO, National Bank of Bahrain.