The tie up between Masraf Al Rayan and Al Khalij Commercial Bank could be the first of many as cost cutting and profitability top the banking agenda.

Profit pressure is a threat to every bank, says Qatar Islamic Bank’s group CEO Bassel Gamal, discussing how Qatar’s robust and well-capitalized banking sector is navigating the twin shocks of lower oil prices and coronavirus.

The Qatari bank is investing at home and abroad, growing its loan book and building strong operations in Egypt and Turkey.

Here’s how to make an entrance at a conference.

Regional difficulties have tested QNB’s resilience, but the bank has managed to consolidate its position at home and maintain its international strength.

In the most difficult circumstances, QNB's international strategy has paid dividends

Qatar’s financial sector might not be the only one to struggle under a blockade imposed on the country since June by a coalition of Middle Eastern states.

Banks in Qatar have been hit hard by its powerful neighbours’ unexpected blockade, but finance, just like other sectors of the Qatari economy, is finding ways to cope with this sudden realignment of regional alliances.

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One year ago, Abdul Kadir Qadi, director of financial affairs to the state of Qatar, telexed 40 international banks inviting them to tender for the management of a $300 million loan, the state's first. The telexes did not mention any individual borrower or project, but they began what was to be one of the most toughly contested fights ever for a Eurocredit mandate. By Nigel Bance