The guide was presented to a gathering of corporate customers of SABB, businessmen and executives, financial and economic experts from the public and private sectors at a recent event.

The increasing need for expert trade and cash management solutions by the private sector across the Middle East during the current world economic turmoil is the core theme running through the important new edition.

The 228-page book addresses essentials of business in Saudi Arabia and the region, comprises detailed chapters on risks and liquidity management in the Middle East, electronic banking, automated clearing house, payment systems in Saudi Arabia, e-connectivity, international trade risk and credit insurance, Islamic finance, and banks’ role in helping Saudi companies do international business.

It also comprises detailed essays and case studies by a wide range of international authorities, SABB and HSBC specialists, as well as prominent Saudi companies and regulators, covering the full spectrum of cash management, trade, supply chain and treasury issues that corporations operating within and outside KSA need to consider.

In the country analysis section, the economic situation, prospects and relevant regulatory regimes of 14 countries across the Middle East and North Africa are analyzed and discussed.

On launching the guide, Adel Al-Nasser, deputy managing director of SABB commented:  “We have tried to anticipate the issues and opportunities that may arise, and the guide is an effort from our side in helping customers and the industry in this respect. Prudent cash, supply chain and treasury management can radically improve a company’s profitability and hence it requires a specialized guide that is regularly updated to meet customers’ needs and expectations. Keeping this in mind, we hope that this latest edition of the guide will become an indispensable reference for businesses in Saudi Arabia and the region.”