Abstract:Merger and acquisition of banks could be for good or ill, depending on whether or not they promote competition and improve performance. This paper assesses the Egyptian experience over the past two decades and makes policy recommendations in light of international experience. It discusses the rationale for bank mergers and acquisitions and reviews their impact […]
Abstract: This paper reviews historical developments of monetary policy in Egypt over the last two decades and offers a new vision for the future. The analysis covers the monetary regime prior to the reforms of the early 1990s, as well as the post-reform era until now. The main features of the new monetary policy involve […]
Abstract: This paper assesses alternative strategies for achieving economic prosperity in Arab countries. The analysis considers not only shallow integration scenarios but also the scope for deeper integration through the coordination of regulatory procedures and the liberalization of barriers to trade in services.Using computable general equilibrium (CGE) models of Tunisia and Egypt to determine potential […]
Abstract:This paper explores the effectiveness of education and training programs in providing the human capital needed for economic development in Arab countries. It reviews educational attainment and the pattern of expenditures on education in these countries. Further, it assesses the rate of return on investment in education as well as the impact of education on […]
Abstract:This paper compares European Community (EC) ‘trade fundamentals’ that prevailed in the 1960s with those that apply in Arab countries today. These fundamentals differ significantly – Arab countries trade much less with each other than EC members did, and the importance of such trade in GDP varies greatly. This suggests that a viable Arab integration […]
Abstract:This paper starts by reviewing the population and labor migration record of the GCC. It then outlines four scenarios concerning the prospects of Arab worker migration to the region, and examines the factors that will shape the direction of the migration trends in the near to medium runs. It concludes that slow Arab out-migration over […]
Abstract:The inability of debtors to meet their obligations is a problem facing both developing and developed countries alike, particularly during financial crisis or periods of liquidity lightening. The experiences of the United Kingdom, Korea, and Mexico, reveal that financial restructuring avoids unnecessary liquidation of viable companies, an upsurge in unemployment, and a loss of productive […]
Abstract:This paper analyzes the status of Egypt’s postal services and explores options to recommend a reform package to enhance the sector’s efficiency and competitiveness. The study compares performance indicators of Egypt’s postal services to those in other countries, and concludes that a vicious circle of low demand, low investment, and low quality of service characterize […]
Abstract:Providing good employment opportunities is perhaps the greatest challenge facing the MENA region. Unemployment rates in the region are among the highest in the world and the magnitude of the problem is overwhelming. This paper analyzes the major developments in the MENA region during the 1990s and examines the reasons growth has failed and investment […]
Abstract:The debate on employment and unemployment in Egypt has been a major feature of public policy for the last few years. With unemployment reaching double-digit figures, the social actors have realized that it is time to confront the problem. This paper argues that the implementation of unconventional policies and the creation of institutions are necessary […]