All Countries and All Sectors

Like bourses in many other emerging markets, the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has been on a downward trend since late May, as the US Federal Reserve has made clear that it will scale back its stimulus programme. However, authorities have taken steps to strengthen the market, including propping up the rupiah, and many of the IPOs scheduled for the coming months appear to be on track, suggesting that any difficulties could be short-lived.

With a strong existing market from business visitors, and a growing status among tourists from elsewhere in the Gulf, Qatar’s authorities are now focusing on developing a broader leisure industry.

While motor coverage is a low-profit line of business in many countries, Jordan has seen this segment of the insurance market make headlines in 2013, with industry players suggesting that without significant changes, the sector as a whole could face serious challenges.

After several years of rapid growth in Port Moresby’s residential real estate sector, the market is in consolidation mode. In response, investors are eyeing commercial and retail segments for new opportunities.

Industrial activity is on the rise in Abu Dhabi as the emirate’s drive towards sustainable economic diversification under Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 gathers pace. The recently opened Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is likely to be a key engine of growth for the emirate, while a recent multi-billion dollar merger between the UAE’s two aluminium manufacturers is also set to bolster plans for industrial expansion.

Sound fiscal management and healthy reserves have set Saudi Arabia on track for an upgrade of its key ratings, improving the Kingdom’s investment and growth prospects.