$84.5 billion in Investments Needed for Regional Energy Sector According to a study published by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), the regional energy sector should raise nearly $84.5 billion for future expansions. Up to end-2006, the gas industry is expected to account for the majority of investments at $43 billion. In addition, $21 billion should be allocated for boosting crude production capacity, $19bn for petrochemical industries and the remaining $1.5 billion for the oil refining sector. OAEPC expects that 42% ($35 billion) of needed funds would be financed by Arab and foreign commercial financial institutions, while 13% would be extended by commercial financiers.   Bahrain’s Ahli United Bank Reports 27% Growth in H1-2004 Profits Bahrain-based Ahli United Bank (AUB) released its first-half 2004 results, reporting a 27% year-on-year growth in net profits to $62.8 million. The bank’s net interest income rose by 15% over the same period, while