Economics
Brent crude slipped toward US$109 a barrel on Thursday, on rising oil stockpiles and weaker fuel demand in the United States, while fears that the world's largest economy might miss a deadline for next year's budget kept bulls in check.
Gold dropped about 1 percent on Thursday after the Federal Reserve linked its monetary policy to unemployment, raising concerns that future economic stimulus could be limited.
Lebanon's Higher Council for Urban Planning has expressed deep reservations about Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s proposal to introduce taxes on the cost of newly constructed apartments.
The delay of a crucial International Monetary Fund loan amid widening political turmoil is a major blow to Egypt's teetering economy. It is also a sign of the enormous difficulties ahead for reforms that experts say are necessary for a democratic transition.
Tunisia's main labor union, the General Union of Tunisian Workers (UGTT), has called off a nationwide general strike convened to protest against what it said had been an attack on its offices by allies of the ruling Ennahda party.
Companies
Saudi Arabian budget carrier Nas Air will be profitable next year for the first time since it started operations in 2007, the CEO of parent company National Air Services (Nas Holding) has said.
A joint venture between a Saudi-based construction firm and a unit of Drake & Scull has been awarded a SR2.7bn ($720m) contract to build the next phase of a mega project in Mecca.
