DOHA: The annual HSBC Economist Roadshow kicked off in Doha this week. Stephen King, Group Chief Economist of HSBC, David Bloom, Global Head of FX Strategy and Simon Williams, Chief Economist of the Mena Region each shared their views on the themes shaping global economics with thought-provoking presentations.
“Why pump-priming is not working” was the title of King’s presentation, where he outlined the challenges facing the world economy. He also highlighted how low interest rates and high sovereign debt is leading to changes in the rules of normal economic behaviour, where the outcome of economic policy is less predictable.
David Bloom offered his views on trends in the FX market, which has moved on from the years of the carry trade, when the FX market offered a clearer framework for understanding and trading currencies, to a new and far less predictable era.
Simon Williams had an optimistic view about the signs of normalisation and the potential for strong growth in the Gulf. He emphasised the importance of productivity and the role of education in improving productivity growth and greater economic diversification.
“This annual event in Doha is part of global roadshow and is highly appreciated by our customers and business partners. In a constantly changing economic environment the analysis and insights that the economists bring give customers an understanding of the impact it might have on their businesses and lives. The economists are valued for their international perspective, and their ability to provoke discussions as well as the development of new ideas,” said Abdul Hakeem Mostafawi, CEO of HSBC in Qatar. The Peninsula
