IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

In a recent conversation with IBS, the CIO of a multinational financial institution likened a core banking system conversion to a root canal treatment at the dentist: 'it is not something you would seek out, unless the pain is really bad'. And while there are some banks around the world that are prepared to go to a dentist, figuratively speaking, without waiting until the very last minute, the majority of financial institutions tend to attempt mending their IT ills by other, less drastic means. The Middle East market is no exception.

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

What has been happening in the core banking software market of the MENA region over the last year, and who is buying what? IBS investigates.

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

Iran's banking software market is, for obvious political reasons, not on the agenda of many international vendors at present, but as banks here are interested in international software, it creates an opportunity for those who are willing and allowed to try.

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

Burgan Bank Group is attempting to standardise its operations by rolling out the ICS Banks core banking platform from Jordan and UK-based vendor, ICSFS. The system is live in one of the six banks within the group, and projects at three more are scheduled for completion within the next year. The project has been challenging, but Ivan Jensen, CTO at Burgan Bank, says that progress has been made, and with forthcoming acquisitions, more ICS Banks projects could be on the agenda.

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

In the current financial climate, Turkey is a rare safe haven of banking industry growth, with nearly all types of banking – be it retail, investment, commercial or participation (Islamic) – on the rise. Still, the international suppliers are yet to make their mark here. Has the time finally come?

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

When the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) wanted to launch its new operation in Sudan, it placed its faith in regional supplier, International Turnkey Systems (ITS). Omer Sidahmed, the start-up's deputy general manager, shares the details of this challenging project.

IBS Journal | Middle East Supplement

Since the deployment of the ICS Banks core offering from ICSFS in 2010, Arab Jordan Investment Bank (AJIB) has not missed a beat. It has become a major reference site for the vendor, has migrated its operations in Cyprus and Qatar to the new system, and enhanced its services through the implementation of additional modules. IBS talks to the bank's assistant general manager, Wael Al-Qadi.