Qatar

A strong outlook for corporate earnings and the broader economy in Qatar, combined with an easing of restrictions on foreign ownership of firms, is pointing to a positive investment environment this year.

A decision to defer extending a comprehensive state health insurance scheme to the expatriate community in Qatar means that private insurance companies will be able to tap into the segment for at least another 18 months. 

With the announcement of another milestone in Qatar’s satellite programme coming at the end of last year, the body of material evidence suggesting significant recent ICT sector development in the state grew in both size and quality. 

Higher income levels, together with greater choice for consumers and changes in shopping patterns, are set to drive growth in Qatar’s retail sector, despite mall operators finding themselves in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

It has been something of a tumultuous year for Qatar’s capital markets. The 12 months saw two major country upgrades, moves to change the rules on foreign ownership, a very successful IPO, a move towards dual listing, ETFs, margin trading and short selling – all underscored by some strong growth in securities, coupled with a bolstering of bonds.

Despite falling oil prices, the economy in Qatar maintained a steady rate of expansion throughout 2014, with targets of even more robust growth this year, fuelled by the non-hydrocarbon sector.