Iraq

Although we remain very cautious, we note that the yield on Iraq's US$ 2028 bond has bounced off support in the 11% area twice in recent weeks, and we take this as a potentially positive... 2007-07-04

BMI View: Strengthening relations between China and the Middle East look set to remain mutually beneficial, offering new opportunities in terms of investment and trade.

We are forecasting real GDP growth of about 12.5% for 2007, based on oil production rising to 2.15mn b/d and oil prices falling only slightly to US$54.5/bbl. An improvement in oil... 2007-05-24

The recent Chatham House report, which warned that Iraq was in danger of becoming a failed state with the distinct possibility of collapse and fragmentation, chimes with our own view,... 2007-05-22

BMI View: The monetary authorities' attempts to curb inflationary pressures are having some effect. The CPI is headed to decline by around half from last year's levels, in line with... 2007-05-21

BMI View: A draft petroleum law, proposals for structural reforms and foreign investment in the Kurdish area suggest improvement, but are insufficient to provide a sustained uplift... 2007-05-21

Iraq's travails are set to intensify over the forecast period, with a proliferation of conflicts between sectarian, ethnic and tribal groups - all pursuing divergent goals as they... 2007-05-21

BMI View: The authorities will need to monitor spending, in order to keep the fiscal deficit within our forecast 20% of GDP range. The removal of subsidies is a positive sign of... 2007-05-21

BMI View: Iraq has managed to stabilise oil exports, but unless it secures the investment to grow its production to its full potential - estimated at near 4mn b/d - Iraq's economy... 2007-05-21

BMI View: Baghdad has failed to engage its neighbours in supporting its rehabilitation, relying instead on US and increasingly Iranian backing. Signs of engagement between Washington... 2007-05-21