Saudi banking outlook upgraded to positive amid economic growth
20/06/23
Saudi Arabia’s banking system has been upgraded from stable to positive by Moody’s Investors Service. This upturn is based on robust oil prices, an ambitious reform agenda and increased economic growth. The organisation also highlighted the Kingdom’s business confidence and government spending as other driving factors for the upgrade.
Furthermore, the non-hydrocarbon sectors of the economy, where Saudi banks primarily operate, are experiencing sustained growth due to this economic momentum. As a result, increased expenditure is expected to drive non-oil gross domestic product growth to an estimated 4.7% in 2023. Overall, the Kingdoms non-oil business activities improved in April, as strong domestic demand triggered an increase in new orders at the fastest rate since September 2014.
Moreover, demand for credit is high and loan performance is improving which is likely to translate into healthy profits for banks. Conversely, it is expected that Saudi banks will experience challenges with higher interest rates enticing depositors to switch to more costly term deposits. Another risk stems from their reliance on large single depositors, namely the government or public entities.
However, lending to the private sector is expected to grow by 10% this year, indicating a positive trajectory. Similarly, residential mortgage growth is predicted to continue, supported by a government initiative to increase home ownership and an optimistic employment outlook.
Business Start Up Saudi Arabia offers a network of experts and specialists within the lifecycle of a business. We can offer expertise in Market Research and Assessment Saudi, Saudi Business Case, Saudi Business Model Development, Feasibility Study and Business Plan Saudi, Organizational and Operational Structuring Saudi, Saudi Sponsorship and Partnership, Company Formation Saudi among others.
Please click on the link to learn more about opportunities and possibilities in Saudi Arabia as well as the initiatives of Business Start Up Saudi Arabia.
