Categories » Country Profile
The gateway to the African continent
South Africa has emerged as one of the leading emerging economies today on the back of its strong manufacturing, services and agricultural sectors. The country’s successful transition to democracy in 1994, with the election of Nelson Mandela as president, saw South Africa re-enter the global economy and achieve impressive growth levels. In December 2010, South Africa became an official member of the BRICS nations, the group of major emerging economies such as China and India, in recognition of its economic strength and regional status.
Be the first to comment | December 2011
For treasurers, visibility over cash has never been more vital. To truly gain this visibility, the relationship that the corporate has with its banking partners is critical. But challenges exist in areas such as fees and regulation.
Be the first to comment | October 2011
Oil-rich and rapidly diversifying
The seven Trucial States of the Persian Gulf – as they were then known – gained their independence from Britain in 1971. The states subsequently adopted a federal constitution, referring to themselves as the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Be the first to comment | August 2011
The Federal Republic of Germany is Europe’s largest economy. A major exporter of machinery, vehicles and chemicals, the country has established itself as the continent’s foremost economy over the past 50 years. The advent of the EU and the euro has helped to cement its place at the heart of Europe both politically and economically.
Be the first to comment | May 2011
Turkey – a bridge between East and West
A dynamic emerging market economy, Turkey sits at a geographical crossroads between southeast Europe and southwest Asia. Among the world’s 20 largest economies, it is experiencing rapid growth, with year-on-year real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth from 2009 to 2010 averaging around 5.5% and expecting to have 8% growth rate at 2010.
Be the first to comment | April 2011
Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is generally considered to be the financial services hub of Central and East Africa. The country is a key member of the East African Community (EAC), alongside Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. The aim of the EAC is to enhance co-operation between the member states in political, economic and social terms, for the benefit of all. This initiative has led to the establishment of a Customs Union in 2005, a Common Market in 2010 and will see the inauguration of a Monetary Union by 2012.
Be the first to comment | November 2010
Landlocked and mountainous, Switzerland has long held a reputation for stability, both politically and financially. Given its long history of neutrality, and in spite of its position at the centre of Europe, Switzerland is not a member of the EU, and did not become a member of the UN until 2002. Switzerland has developed relations with the EU through a series of bilateral agreements, and has largely brought its economic policies into line with those of the EU in order to aid the country’s competitiveness at an international level.
Be the first to comment | October 2010
The recently improved security environment in Iraq, and the corresponding decline in insurgent attacks, has helped to stimulate economic activity in the country. Longterm economic growth, however, depends on the government’s ability to pass major policy reforms and develop Iraq’s substantial oil reserves.
Be the first to comment | July 2010
France is the fifth-largest economy in the world, and the second-largest in Europe. A key participant in several European organisations, France joined other EU members to launch the euro on 1st January 1999.
Be the first to comment | May 2010
The largest country in the world, Russia is an economic power with which to be reckoned. Russia’s leading industry sectors are oil and gas. Over 10% of international oil production takes place in Russia and more than 70% of Russia’s crude oil is exported. Russia is also responsible for about 20% of the world’s natural gas production.
Be the first to comment | March 2010