Q.    What is the expected role that Arab Bank can play in the capital market?

A.    With the new Banking Law in force, banks are now allowed to take an active role within the capital market through underwriting stock and bond issues, deal in capitl market instruments & provide financial leasing.

       In addition to its dominant role in the syndicated loan market in Jordan, Arab Bank, with its large base of resources and high liquidity surpluses, can be a major contributor to the development and deepening of the capital market.

Q.    How has being a listed company contributed to the development of Arab Bank?

A.    As a listed company, the bank enhances the liquidity position of the shareholders.  Its stocks have been available to a wider base of investors.  This status also has allowed for easy capital raising and funding.

Q.    What attracts investors to invest in Arab Bank?

A.   

³      Long history of profitability & growth.

³      Strong financial position & historical growth record.

³      High rating (Thomson Bank Watch: Short: TBW-1 / Senior: AA- & Moody’s: Deposits Baa1 / Prime – 2).

³      High liquidity of the share.

Q.    Please comment on the last five years in the Jordan investment community and your outlook for the future investment in Jordan.

A.    The investment environemnt has been subject to a broad overhaul and reform process.  The investment law & regulations have been drastically amended to promote and enhance the investment climate through providing various incentives to investors.

       The country wide opens its doors for international trade.  Hence, several steps have been initiated in this regard; i.e., Aqaba Special Economic Zone, Qualifying Industrial Zones, US-Jordan Free Trade Agreement, EU partnership agreement & finally WTO membership, in addition to some other free trade agreements with neighboring countries.  These agreements will open the largest two world markets: USA & Europe in addition to other neighboring markets for the Jordanian exports.

       Such steps, which represent the future gorwth engines to Jordan, are expected to broaden the market for Jordanian exports and, and have already been targeted by local as well as foreign investors, leading to a brighter investment future outlook.