In this Economy Bites episode, we highlight the pressure on markets as OPEC+ supply outpaces demand and discuss what this means for GCC fiscal planning. We also spotlight the strength of the non-oil economy and the region’s growing trade links with Asia and Africa. 

In this October Economy Bites episode Partner, Jing Teow discusses the current US-China trade tensions as they continue to shape the global economic landscape — from new port fees and export rules on rare earths to halted soybean imports and tighter control over critical minerals.  
Amid these shifts, GCC economies remain resilient — with growth projected around 3.5%, supported by diversification and steady non-oil momentum. 
As global supply chains recalibrate, strategic diversification and regional collaboration will be key to sustained growth and stability. 

In our September Economy Bites episode, Partner and Middle East Chief Economist Richard Boxshall examines the decline in oil prices, with Brent crude potentially dropping to $60 per barrel in the next quarter and even $50 by 2026. 

 Despite these shifts, both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are experiencing steady GDP growth of around 4%, supported by both oil and strong non-oil sectors.  Across the region, non-oil private sectors remain resilient, with PMI scores consistently above 50, indicating healthy expansion.

In this July edition of  Economy Bites, Partner Jing Teow discusses how US tariffs under President Trump have altered global trade patterns and raised inflation concerns, and what this means for the region. Importers are rerouting goods through ASEAN and the GCC as we now rapidly position ourselves as a strategic re-export hub, which carries risks and opportunities. In addition, Jing also focus on the implications of OPEC+ bringing forward planned increases in production quotas, and why this hasn’t had a huge impact on oil prices.

In our June edition of Economy Bites – our Director of Economics, Jing Teow highlighted the economic implications of the recent conflict, noting that the equity market rally halted following the attacks on Iran and significance of the Strait of Hormuz for global oil trade. Jing also discussed the short-term impact on the GCC, including temporary airspace closures and disruptions to regional travel and tourism, which are expected to be temporary. Additionally, she emphasised the potential risks of re-escalation, including impacts on tourism, inflation, and investor confidence.

 | In this episode of Economy Bites, Director of Economics, Jing Teow discusses recent tariff agreements between the US, China, and UK, mentioning temporary relief but ongoing challenges. The discussion also highlights the impact on GCC nations, with lower GDP growth forecasts from the IMF, challenges for the oil sector, and fiscal pressures on Gulf economies. Also covered are President Trump's US$700 billion AI and technology deals during his recent visit to our region.

In this edition of Economy Bites, Jing Teow our Director of Economics, examines Trump's trade policy, its impact on global markets, and investor confidence. With a forecasted 1% drop in global trade volumes, the IMF predicts a half percentage point lower GDP growth. Jing also addresses the GCC countries' exposure to tariffs and risks from lower oil prices and dollar depreciation 

In this month’s episode of Economy Bites, PwC’s Middle East Global Chief Economist Richard Boxshall delves into the impact of Trump's tariffs and how US economic policies are reshaping global trade dynamics. He highlights the global reaction to these shifts and in addition provides an analysis of the latest data from Saudi Arabia.

In this special edition of Economy Bites, Global Chief Economist Richard Boxshall shares the latest economic trends in the region from our recently launched Middle East Economy Watch: GCC strong growth and ambition, balanced with fiscal prudence.  

In this episode we share the five key themes shaping regional trends as we explore the forces set to define our evolving geoeconomic landscape in 2025. With a focus on fiscal prudence, tax reforms, AI innovation and urban transformation, the GCC is ready to navigate key economic shifts in the year ahead.