Lower oil prices, global demand key risks for GCC banks: Fitch

Fitch Ratings said lower oil prices and weaker global demand are the main risks facing banking environments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The agency noted that government spending continues to shape bank-operating conditions in most GCC countries.

In a recent report, Fitch warned that any additional decline in oil prices would weaken its 2025 loan growth forecasts, which are currently aligned with 2024 levels.

US tariffs are unlikely to have more than a modest direct impact on GCC banking environments. It explained that non-hydrocarbon exports were relatively less exposed, limiting the direct economic effects of tariffs on GCC economies and their banks.

Credit conditions for GCC banks could also deteriorate if corporates operating in affected sectors experience weaker profitability and cash flows due to higher operating costs and inflation resulting from the tariffs. 

It also said corporates could face higher debt costs, given the uncertainty around interest rates and the possible delay in rate cuts. This pressure may dampen overall credit demand and eventually lead to higher credit risk and non-performing loans.

Still, GCC banks are generally well-positioned to weather any operating environment deterioration. Many have built up capital buffers in recent years, supported by strong profits from high oil prices, elevated interest rates, solid liquidity, robust economic activity, and favorable credit conditions.

Fitch identified Bahrain as the most at-risk banking environment in the GCC, due to weak public finances, high debt levels, and the highest fiscal breakeven oil price in the region.

Banking environments in other GCC countries have stable outlooks, with Oman rated positively.

Fitch said the UAE and Saudi Arabia have the most favorable banking conditions, recording the highest operating environment scores in the region.