Banking and Capital Markets
10 articles
Tunisia's offshore banks abandon local lending as profits and purpose fade
Tunisia's non-resident banks, once intended to channel foreign capital into the domestic economy, now account for just 3.5% of sector assets and are shifting their focus abroad, with declining profits and minimal impact on local financing.
UBCI accelerates asset and profit growth in Tunisia banking sector
UBCI has posted double-digit growth in assets, loans, and deposits for H1 2026, with net profit up nearly 10 percent. The bank's expansion signals renewed confidence in Tunisia's financial sector and its role in supporting economic activity.
North Africa Bank to enable direct Alipay payments from Libya to China
Libya's North Africa Bank is set to launch a direct payment service to China via Alipay, allowing Libyan account holders to make mobile transactions for Chinese goods and services. The move signals a new phase in Libya's financial connectivity with Asia.
Libya's E-Payment Surge: LD 765 Billion in Digital Transactions Reshapes Banking
Libya's banking sector processed nearly LD 765 billion in electronic payments in just eight months of 2026, as the Central Bank pushes for digital transformation and tighter oversight amid liquidity and currency access challenges.
Mauritania Caps Financial Transfer Tax at 200 MRU for All Transactions
Mauritania's tax authority has set a maximum limit of 200 new ouguiyas on the tax applied to financial transfers, regardless of the transaction amount. The measure, effective by 1 September, aims to standardise costs for bank clients and ensure regulatory compliance.
Libya's Foreign Currency Usage Rises 4.2% to Nearly $16 Billion by July
The Central Bank of Libya reports that banks used US$ 15.987 billion in foreign currency from January to July 2026, a 4.2% increase over the previous year, raising concerns about reserve depletion and the political sensitivity of currency allocation.
Algerian Banks Cut Fees and Expand Online Use for €750 Travel Allowance
Algerian banks have reduced international card issuance fees and now allow the €750 annual travel allowance to be used for online payments abroad, aiming to modernise banking services and ease access for travellers.
CPA Launches New Financing Scheme for Algeria's Ageing Bus Fleet
The Crédit populaire d'Algérie (CPA) has introduced a new financing offer for collective transport operators, aiming to accelerate the replacement of buses over 25 years old and support the modernisation of Algeria's public transport sector.
Egypt's Central Bank Expected to Hold Rates as Inflation Rises
The Central Bank of Egypt is widely expected to keep its key interest rates unchanged for a fourth consecutive meeting, as policymakers weigh persistent inflationary pressures and a resilient external position amid regional uncertainties.
Egypt issues regulatory framework for short selling on EGX
Egypt's Financial Regulatory Authority has approved a comprehensive framework for short selling on the Egyptian Exchange, introducing new risk controls and operational requirements as part of broader capital market reforms.