It has been one of the most reassuring factors in the Lebanese economy—some might be inclined to say nearly the only one—that local banks maintained their strong financial standings during the past years and have been perfectly assuming their role in financing the economy. Beyond their financial performance, which is highlighted in the analysis below, banks have also been implementing adequate corporate governance standards and nurturing good transparency and disclosure practices. The Lebanese have every reason to conclude that the robust financial fundamentals, rigorous adherence to standards under supervision by the central bank, and solid risk profiles put Lebanese banks in a good position to reap the benefits of an economic upturn locally and regionally. The analysis below is based on the consolidated performance of 26 banks that account for 97 percent of banking activities. Fifteen of these 26 banks are defined as comprising the Alpha banking group with deposits
