Turkiye’s lira bonds set to yield promising returns, central bank governor says /node/2427281/business-economy
Turkiye’s lira bonds set to yield promising returns, central bank governor says
Turkish Central Bank Gov. Hafize Gaye Erkan indicated that while the stringent monetary policies have started to influence consumer prices, she does not anticipate inflation dropping to single digits until at least 2026. AFP
Turkiye’s lira bonds set to yield promising returns, central bank governor says
Updated 17 December 2023
Arab News
RIYADH: Turkiye is urging foreign investors to consider government bonds that offer yields in Turkish lira as the country approaches the end of its tightening monetary cycle, according to the central bank’s chief.
Turkish Central Bank Gov. Hafize Gaye Erkan stated that the country is currently approaching economic stability and Turkish lira bonds will yield significant returns, Bloomberg reported, citing Erkan’s interview with Turkish daily newspaper Hurriyet.
“At this time next year, we will be in a more moderate environment in terms of inflation and monetary tightening. I advise foreign investors to seize the opportunity now, as the yields will be lower after this time,” she said.
She indicated that while the stringent monetary policies have started to influence consumer prices, she does not anticipate inflation dropping to single digits until at least 2026.
Following Erkan’s appointment in June, the central bank has implemented a substantial interest rate hike, raising rates by over 30 percentage points to 40 percent.
This announcement comes after a decade where foreign investors largely sidestepped lira-denominated bonds in response to a series of unconventional economic strategies deployed by Ankara aimed at curbing the short selling of the lira.
Highlighting a positive development, the governor pointed out the recent uptick in interest from foreign investors, especially from the US, in Turkish government bonds over the last month.
However, Erkan expressed a preference for direct investments over swap contracts, noting their limited impact on the country’s reserves.
Erkan’s comments come in the backdrop of the Monetary Policy Committee’s announcement last month, suggesting a slowdown and imminent end to the ongoing monetary tightening cycle.
She noted a decrease in the price hikes across various sectors, including automotive, electronics, and furniture. However, she acknowledged that more time is needed to see similar trends in transportation and food.
Erkan also touched upon the persistently high inflation in sectors like education and housing. She highlighted the supply shortages impacting the housing market’s pricing dynamics and shared her personal experience with Istanbul’s increased rental costs.
As of the end of November, Turkiye’s annual inflation rate stood at 62 percent, with the apex bank projecting it to climb to 65 percent by the year’s end and then fall to 36 percent by the end of the following year.
Closing Bell: Saudi main index slips to close at 12,271
Updated 40 sec ago
Reem Walid
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index rose on Sunday, gaining 102.53 points, or 0.83 percent, to close at 12,271.77.
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR6.20 billion ($1.65 billion), as 81 of the stocks advanced and 142 retreated.
The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu gained 83.19 points, or 0.33 percent, to close at 25,610.66. This comes as 39 of the listed stocks advanced, while 24 retreated.
The MSCI Tadawul Index lost 16.57 points, or 1.07 percent, to close at 1,532.20.
The best-performing stock of the day was BinDawood Holding Co., whose share price surged 6.01 percent to SR7.94.
Other top gainers were Thimar Development Holding Co. as well as Americana Restaurants International PLC - Foreign Co.
The worst performer was Dallah Healthcare Co., whose share price dropped by 4.98 percent to SR160.40. Halwani Bros. Co. and Astra Industrial Group also saw their shares decline.
Riyad Bank has announced the completion of the $750 million offer of its US dollar-denominated additional tier 1 capital sustainable sukuk under its international additional tier 1 capital Sukuk program.
The program refers to a type of Islamic financial instrument designed to meet regulatory capital requirements while adhering to Shariah principles. These sukuk are issued by banks and financial institutions to raise capital, specifically classified as Tier 1 capital, which is crucial for maintaining solvency and supporting growth.
According to a Tadawul statement, the total number of sukuk stands at 3,750 based on the minimum denomination and total issue size at a par value of $200,000 and a return of 5.5 percent per annum and a maturity of perpetual, callable after five years.
The sukuk may be redeemed in certain cases as detailed in the offering circular in relation to the sukuk. It will be listed on the London Stock Exchange’s International Securities Market.
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group Co. has announced that it has signed a Shariah-compliant banking facilities agreement with Al Rajhi Bank worth SR1.3 billion for 13 years.
A bourse filing revealed that the amount will be utilized in financing the following projects of the group: Sehat AlHamra Hospital, Women’s Health Hospital, and Sehat Alkharj Hospital as well as the Medical Centers affiliated with Al-Marakez Al-Awwalyah for Healthcare Co.
Saudi Arabia calls for global action on climate and land degradation at UN General Assembly
Updated 13 min 36 sec ago
Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has called for decisive global action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation during the UN General Assembly.
The appeal was made at a Rio Trio Initiative event in New York City, where the incoming presidents of the three Rio summits outlined their goals for the UN environmental meetings scheduled for the remainder of 2024, according to a press release.
Saudi Arabia is set to host the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP16 from Dec. 2-13, with a key target of restoring 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land by 2030. The Kingdom’s COP16 presidency is pushing for concrete commitments to reach this goal.
The Saudi Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Osama Faqeeha, who is also an advisor to the incoming UNCCD COP16 president, said: “Climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation are interconnected aspects of the same planetary crisis, which are most effectively addressed in an integrated way.”
He added: “This year presents a unique opportunity to unite with our colleagues in Azerbaijan and Colombia to rally the international community to address these interrelated global environmental challenges, which are having a devastating impact on the planet and all of its inhabitants, including its people.”
The Riyadh event is expected to be the largest and most inclusive UNCCD COP to date, bringing together the private sector, civil society, and the scientific community to share solutions for land degradation, desertification, and drought.
Azerbaijan will preside over the 29th Conference of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, while Colombia will chair the 16th Conference of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
At the Rio Trio Initiative event, Saudi representatives underscored the importance of land health for people and the planet, stressing the significant economic, social, and environmental repercussions of land degradation and drought — all of which jeopardize biodiversity, elevate greenhouse gas emissions, and worsen food and water insecurity.
The incoming president of the CBD COP16, Susana Muhamad and Colombia’s minister of environment and sustainable development, said: “We need a joint agenda implemented on the ground, and we are ready to establish a working group to promote articulation and coherence.”
She further emphasized that the just transition addressed in relation to climate change must foster collaborations to prevent the degradation and harm of natural ecosystems.
“On the other hand, we have a great opportunity to plan the land with a more integrated approach: decarbonizing, restoring, and generating better conditions for human lives. COP16 is the space for deepening the understanding of these synergies,” she said.
COP29 President-Designate Mukhtar Babayev stated that by strengthening collaboration among the three Rio Conventions, they seek to unlock alliances, improve efficiency, and achieve tangible outcomes that benefit both people and the planet.
“This is about recognizing that the goals of the respective conventions are intrinsically linked and that progress in one area can catalyze advances in others,” Babayev said.
The Rio Trio Initiative is named after the pivotal 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where nations united to form a framework addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, desertification, and biodiversity loss. The initiative aims to enhance collaboration across the three major international environmental conventions.
RIYADH: Qatar’s private sector exports increased by 3.5 percent quarter-on-quarter, reaching 2.62 billion Qatari riyals ($719 million) in the second quarter of 2024, the latest industry data showed.
A recent report from the Qatar Chamber highlighted varied performance among exports based on the type of certificates of origin, with shipments under the General Model rising by 2.2 percent and those through the Unified Gulf Cooperation Council Model increasing by 15.3 percent. In contrast, exports via the Unified Arab Model experienced a decline of 24 percent compared to the previous quarter.
These models serve as frameworks to enhance understanding of economic integration and cooperation among countries, analyzing trade based on various monetary theories, including trade barriers, tariffs, and financial synergies among member states.
The increase aligns with the goals of the Third National Development Plan 2024-2030, which aims to boost private sector growth and raise the share of Qataris in the private workforce to 20 percent.
The report also indicated that fuel exports in the second quarter totaled 435 million riyals, marking a 17.7 percent drop from the first quarter. Aluminum exports similarly declined by 31 percent, reaching 302 million riyals.
Additionally, essential and industrial oils amounted to 427.6 million riyals, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 9 percent. However, steel exports fell by 20.8 percent to 218.18 million riyals.
Exports of industrial gases and lotrene recorded declines of 20.6 percent and 66.1 percent, respectively, reaching 200.3 million riyals and 44.42 million riyals.
Chemical substance exports reached 90.1 million riyals in the second quarter, reflecting a decrease of 3.4 percent, while petrochemical exports totaled 52.9 million riyals, down 41.7 percent on a quarterly basis.
Paraffin exports amounted to 29.5 million riyals, a 4.9 percent decline compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, whereas chemical fertilizers surged to 339.5 million riyals, a significant increase of 3,139 percent compared to the first quarter.
These ten commodities accounted for 81.6 percent of the total value of private sector exports, according to the certificates of origin issued by the Qatar Chamber during the second quarter.
In terms of economic blocs, Asian countries, excluding the Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab nations, topped the list, receiving exports worth 1.2 billion riyals, or 45.6 percent of total exports.
GCC countries followed with 625.62 million riyals, or 23.9 percent, while the EU received 543.43 million riyals, or 20.7 percent.
Arab countries, excluding GCC, received 145.96 million riyals, and other European countries accounted for 76.82 million riyals. African countries collectively received 21.06 million riyals, or 0.8 percent of total exports.
The report indicated that Qatar exported to 105 countries in the second quarter, with the African grouping comprising 27 nations.
India emerged as the leading destination for private sector exports, totaling 475.5 million riyals, or 18.1 percent, followed by the Netherlands with 354.5 million riyals, a share of 13.6 percent, and the UAE with 251.55 million riyals, or 9.6 percent.
SPARK attracts over 60 investors with $3bn in investment
Updated 29 September 2024
Nadin Hassan
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Energy Park has attracted more than 60 investors, amassing over $3 billion in investments to date.
In a recent statement on X, SPARK announced that seven factories are currently operational, with an additional 14 under construction. Established in 2018 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, SPARK is a fully integrated industrial ecosystem located in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia.
The initiative serves as a regional center for the energy sector, providing a range of integrated solutions to support companies throughout the Kingdom.
As a megaproject, SPARK aims to create an energy city that will become a global hub for energy, industry, and technology, housing approximately 300 industrial and service facilities.
Dedicated to producing clean and sustainable resources, SPARK stands out as the world’s first and only industrial city to receive a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver certification in 2020 for its energy and environmental practices.
Saudi Aramco, in collaboration with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones, is responsible for the development, operation, management, and maintenance of the project’s infrastructure.
Located between Dammam and Al-Ahsa, SPARK will be developed in three phases, covering a total area of 50 sq. km.
During the inauguration ceremony, Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih announced that SPARK will function as a special economic zone, providing tenants with regulatory, fiscal, and non-fiscal support.
Emphasizing SPARK’s pivotal role in unlocking Saudi Arabia’s energy resources in line with the country’s economic transformation plan, Al-Falih stated: “SPARK is one of the country’s most ambitious projects, affirming the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030 by creating thousands of high-skilled jobs, serving as an economic catalyst, and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s strong position in the global energy sector.”
In 2022, SPARK signed a contract with a subsidiary of Abdullah M. Bin Saedan and Sons Real Estate Group to develop a $150 million residential complex and workers’ village.
The residential complex will be constructed in two phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2025 and covering an area of 30,000 sq. meters.
FHS World 2024: Leading the charge for sustainable hospitality practices
Updated 29 September 2024
Miguel Hadchity
RIYADH: The Future Hospitality Summit World is returning to Dubai from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 at Madinat Jumeirah, promising three days filled with insights, networking, and announcements for the hospitality and tourism sectors.
As the largest edition to date, FHS World will gather over 1,500 industry leaders and feature more than 110 distinguished speakers, facilitating dynamic discussions and networking opportunities.
Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench and organizer of FHS World, told Arab News: “The Future Hospitality Summit has grown year on year since its inception, evolving from what was once a purely Middle East-focused event — the much-loved Arabian Hotel Investment Conference — to a world-leading summit that attracts over 1,500 international delegates and puts the global industry in the spotlight.”
He added: “As our biggest and boldest event to date, FHS World 2024 reflects the continued growth of the hospitality and tourism sector and the evolution of FHS as the leading event of its kind.”
Under the theme “Invest in Our Future,” the summit will address critical issues shaping the global hospitality landscape, with a particular focus on innovation, sustainability, technology, and investment opportunities. Worsley emphasized the significance of investment and partnerships, stating, “This year’s theme emphasizes investment, innovation, and sustainability.”
Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench and organizer of FHS World.
He elaborated: “Each year, we work alongside our highly experienced advisory board who guide us on topics, speakers, and event format to ensure we bring in the right people to discuss the most important factors affecting the hospitality industry and add the most value to industry players attending.”
This year’s agenda is packed with over 40 sessions across 20 conference tracks on four dedicated stages: Summit, Future, Exhibition, and Innovation. Topics will encompass environmental, social, and governance issues, sustainable development, human capital, real estate, technology, branding, and culture.
Worsley noted that the emphasis on sustainability has intensified annually. The 2024 agenda includes dedicated tracks where expert insights will guide the development of sustainable business models that prioritize environmental stewardship while enhancing profitability.
The summit will also feature panels addressing urgent topics like scaling tourism with sustainable footprints, decarbonization, and achieving net-positive hospitality, aligning with the global movement toward responsible business practices.
A session “Greening Hospitality: ESG Law Compliance Impacting Hotel Real Estate Value” underscores the rising importance of environmental standards worldwide.
Hala Matar Choufany, president for HVS Middle East, Africa & South Asia.
Hala Matar Choufany, president for HVS Middle East, Africa & South Asia, remarked: “Sustainability compliance is one of the biggest challenges facing the hospitality industry, as governments and investors push for more stringent environmental standards.”
FHS World 2024 will delve into technology and innovation, with Worsley highlighting, “Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and automation are transforming our industry in profound ways. FHS World will showcase how technology enhances everything from operational efficiency to guest personalization.”
Choufany added: “Emerging technologies like AI and IoT are transforming hospitality operations by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing guest experiences. AI allows hotel operators to use predictive analytics to forecast occupancy, adjust staffing, and optimize inventory, while dynamic pricing algorithms help maximize revenue.”
Experts like Nicolas Nasra of Colliers will discuss AI’s transformative potential in hotel operations, and Piergiorgio Schirru of Blastness will emphasize the importance of revenue management systems in securing competitive market prices. Worsley further noted that “Robotics and Generative AI will also take centre stage as tools for creating more efficient systems; however, discussions to address ethics and data protection elements of these new technologies are essential.”
The summit will not only highlight technological advancements but also emphasize sustainability and pathways to achieving net-zero goals. Inge Huijbrechts, chief sustainability and security officer at Radisson Hotel Group, along with leaders from brands like Hilton and Accor, will explore how hotels can leverage data-driven platforms to track, report, and minimize their carbon footprints.
Worsley highlighted key presentations, including “Decarbonization and the Pathway to Net Zero,” “Net Positive Hospitality,” and “Leading with Purpose: Commitment to People, Planet, Profit.”
A key feature of FHS will be the Branded Residences Forum, presented by Accor One Living, focusing on the rising trend of branded residences in the Middle East and beyond. Worsley stated this forum is “set to be one of the biggest draws at FHS World,” providing attendees with insights into the intersection of real estate, branding, and hospitality.
He explained: “Investors are increasingly looking for diversified assets that can weather market fluctuations, and this is driving interest in branded residences and mixed-use developments.”
Choufany added: “The hospitality industry is witnessing several emerging trends that are shaping the future of investments. One notable trend is the rise of extended stay and co-living spaces.” She noted that as remote work and digital nomadism gain popularity, investments in these properties are expected to grow, blending home comforts with hotel-like amenities.
This year’s summit will also feature Country Pavilions exhibitions showcasing hospitality projects from Greece, Italy, Morocco, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
Worsley stated: “Our country pavilions are a platform for countries to showcase their hospitality projects and investment opportunities to a global audience, helping investors identify new markets.”
Innovation and creativity will be celebrated with several industry competitions, including the semi-finals of the UN Tourism Women in Tech Start-Up Competition and the new Sustainable Cook-Off, spotlighting top UAE chefs creating culinary masterpieces from locally sourced ingredients. The finals of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge, a student competition founded by Hotelschool The Hague, will also return, continuing the tradition of recognizing innovative practices in the sector.
Worsley remarked: “One of our most popular events is the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge, which enforces true sustainability through collaboration and is judged by world leaders in their field.”
FHS World will also tackle challenges such as labor shortages and sustainability compliance through solutions-based discussions. Worsley explained: “FHS World addresses these challenges by bringing together experts in green technologies, automation, and workforce development to provide attendees with a toolkit for tackling these issues while capitalizing on new growth opportunities.”
As FHS World expands, it continues to serve as a premier platform for industry leaders to connect, share ideas, and shape the future of hospitality and tourism. Worsley stated, “Our vision for FHS World is to continue to help shape the future of hospitality investment and provide a platform — one that bridges continents and drives innovation, where industry leaders gather to forge partnerships to advance their businesses sustainably.”
With more sessions, speakers, and features than ever before, FHS World 2024 promises to be a defining event for the global hospitality and tourism sector, offering attendees unparalleled insights, networking opportunities, and pathways to invest in the industry’s future.
