All Countries and All Sectors

The Thai bond market is seeing a flurry of new offers as companies seek to raise new capital, while at the same time central bank issues are experiencing increased demand on the expectation of lower interest rates.

Though built on strong foundations, and with expansion plans in the pipeline, the cement industry of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) could be facing leaner times as the global economic crisis puts pressure on the construction sector in the Middle East.

The Bahamas government is looking at a mix of caution and capital expenditure to mitigate the effects of the global financial crisis on the island nation's economy, though some opposition and business leaders have called for more extensive relief to assist the private sector and the disadvantaged in the community.

Dubai's retail sector is pushing forward with the launch of several large new shopping centres, though there are concerns that the ongoing global economic crisis, combined with fears of an oversupply of outlets, could see retailers come under pressure as they compete for trade in a tightening market.

Abu Dhabi is making strides to enhance its healthcare infrastructure by building several new medical facilities, most of which involve private sector participation.

Investors in Indonesia's capital markets are carefully monitoring and awaiting the finalisation of a corporate deal that they hope will result in an end to the nearly month-long speculation and turmoil surrounding the suspension of trading in the shares of Bakrie & Brothers, the country's largest company by stock market capitalisation.