The IMF revised its global growth forecasts for 2018 and 2019 to 3.9 percent, 20 basis points higher than the previous forecast. At the heart of external risks is the US Federal Reserve’s normalization of its monetary policy. Further, other major central banks are also considering exit from expansionary monetary policy. Geopolitical tensions and rising protectionist sentiments further complicate the global operating environment.
The CBB strives to be an even-handed, transparent regulator and we are open to suggestions from the industry. Maintaining a regulatory environment that is, at once, business-friendly and adheres to international best practice is, undoubtedly, one of the success factors in Bahrain’s development as an international financial centre of repute over the past 35 years.