14 Billion Dollars: The Devastating Losses of the Hezbollah-Israel Conflict
Christiane Tager 21/02 22:05 - Reading : 4 minute(s)
Hezbollah Israel European Union Gulf Damage War
$14 billion! That is the historic and no less colossal amount of damage caused by the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. This sum includes both material damage and economic losses. The reconstruction costs are estimated at around $12 billion. For Nassib Ghobril, chief economist at Byblos Bank, economic losses amount to at least $3 ...
After the Withdrawal Limit Increase: What About BDL Reserves?
Christiane Tager 20/02 22:30 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Lebanon Economy Banks Central Bank
In a highly anticipated move, Lebanon’s Central Bank (BDL) announced on Wednesday an increase in the withdrawal limits for Circulars 158 and 166, raising them to $500 and $250 per month, respectively, effective March 1. While the decision was welcomed by depositors, it has sparked concerns over its cost and potential impact on BDL’s reserves ...
End of the Road for the Bidding Process on Exploration of Blocks 8 and 10
Christiane Tager 19/02 20:50 - Reading : 4 minute(s)
Lebanon will close, on March 17, the third round of bidding for gas exploration in blocks 8 and 10 of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), located off its coast. This project could be a major breakthrough for the country in terms of energy security and economic development. These bids are seen as an opportunity to attract foreign investment and tap ...
Electricity: Why Is Lebanon on the Brink of a Blackout?
Christiane Tager 18/02 16:00 - Reading : 5 minute(s)
The country is now facing yet another major energy crisis. According to sources at Electricité du Liban (EDL), the available fuel will last only about eight more days, threatening a complete blackout by February 25. This fuel shortage comes amid significant delays in shipments, sparked by contested tests on the fuel. “Shady dealings” ...
Surge in Demand for Prefabricated Homes in Lebanon
Christiane Tager 16/02 10:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Since the ceasefire, the revival of economic activity and urgent need to shelter thousands of displaced people have led to a surge in prefabricated home orders. A supplier of prefabricated homes in Lebanon, who requested anonymity, revealed to This is Beirut that there is a 30% increase in demand. Businesses in this sector, which had seen a ...
Lebanon Claims a Strategic Position in Gold Reserves!
Christiane Tager 10/02 20:40 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
Despite its significant economic challenges, Lebanon maintains a prominent position in terms of gold reserves in the Arab world. According to the latest report from the World Gold Council (WGC), the country ranks second among Arab nations with the largest gold reserves, holding an impressive total of around 287 tons by the end of 2024, equivalent ...
Gold Soars While Silver Remains Steady
Christiane Tager 07/02 20:35 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
In 2024, gold surged by approximately 27%, setting new records, while silver, though up 27.5%, showed more moderate fluctuations. However, unlike gold, silver has yet to surpass its all-time high. The primary driver behind gold's meteoric rise is its long-established role as a safe-haven asset. In times of economic, political or geopolitical ...
Suspension of USAID: An Opportunity for China?
Christiane Tager 06/02 15:45 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
The Trump administration has suspended USAID, freezing billions of dollars in funding and humanitarian aid. The United States could offer China a real opportunity to expand its influence, particularly in Africa, Latin America and Asia — regions where American aid has always been essential. Since taking office on January 20, President Donald ...
Lebanon Reconnects with the World: Airlines Resuming Flights
Christiane Tager 05/02 09:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Middle East Beirut International Airport Hezbollah Israel Kuwait
From the onset of the escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, all international airlines suspended their flights to Lebanon. Among them, major carriers such as Air France, Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines halted their routes to Beirut, citing security concerns for passengers and crew amid ongoing bombardments and the inability to guarantee ...
Tariffs: Gold Shines and the Euro Crashes
Christiane Tager 03/02 22:30 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Donald Trump Gold currencies dollar euro
After a year marked by record highs, gold seems poised to continue its surge in 2025, as investors seek to shield themselves from global economic uncertainties. The trade policies of US President Donald Trump, particularly the new tariffs that could provoke a trade war, dampen economic growth and fuel inflation, will likely benefit gold. Gold ...
Tension Between Ministry of Energy and TotalEnergies
Christiane Tager 31/01 10:40 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
The relationship between the Lebanese Ministry of Energy and the French oil giant TotalEnergies seems to be on the brink of collapse. The issue lies in a report on the drilling of Block 9 that has not been submitted to the Lebanese authorities. In 2023, TotalEnergies announced the start of drilling in Block 9, off the Lebanese coast, as part of ...
Agriculture Facing Mild Winter and Conflict Repercussions
Christiane Tager 29/01 10:00 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
Agriculture Economy Lebanon War
The Lebanese agricultural sector, already weakened by a complex economic situation, is now facing two major challenges. On one hand, an unusually mild winter threatens agricultural yields, and on the other, the repercussions of the war are affecting not only infrastructure but also production resources. The agricultural sector is navigating ...
Lebanese-Saudi Economic Ties: A Fresh Start?
Christiane Tager 25/01 15:00 - Reading : 4 minute(s)
Lebanon Economy Saudi Arabia KSA
Saudi Arabia has traditionally been a key economic partner for Lebanon. Before the 2021 decline in relations, largely driven by the Hezbollah issue, Lebanese exports to the Kingdom were substantial, particularly in agriculture, food products, textiles, and handicrafts. These exports were a vital source of foreign currency for Lebanon's economy. ...
Trump Launches His Own Cryptocurrency!
Christiane Tager 22/01 11:10 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
It was only a matter of time before Donald Trump had his own cryptocurrency, and now it’s finally here. Just two days before being inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, Donald Trump launched his personal crypto. Trump has entered the cryptocurrency world with a "meme coin" bearing his likeness. The coin features Trump with a ...
Hospital Fees: When Healthcare Becomes a Privilege
Christiane Tager 20/01 20:35 - Reading : 4 minute(s)
Hospitals Insurance Fees medical coverage
The 2019 economic crisis has had a profound impact on Lebanon’s healthcare system, driving costs to alarming levels. Health insurance companies have been forced to adjust premiums in response to the devaluation of the Lebanese pound, making access to adequate healthcare coverage increasingly difficult, especially for the middle and lower ...
If Lebanon Were to Buy Back Its Debt...
Christiane Tager 15/01 19:20 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
In 2023, Lebanon’s public debt reached around $100 billion, representing approximately 200% of its GDP. This makes Lebanon one of the most indebted countries in the world in relation to its economy. It ranks second behind Japan (260% of GDP) and ahead of Greece (180% of GDP), Italy (150% of GDP) and Sudan (176% of GDP). This debt results from ...
Exchange Rate Stability: Lebanese Pound Withstands the Surge
Christiane Tager 11/01 13:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Banks Central Bank of Lebanon Lebanese Pound Dollar Joseph Aoun
For some time now, rumors have suggested a drop in the exchange rate from 89,500 pounds per dollar to 50,000. However, Nassib Ghobril, Chief Economist at Byblos Bank, dismisses such claims as “not serious.” “The Lebanese pound has experienced a frenzied demand since the ceasefire and Thursday’s presidential election. Speculators started ...
End-of-Year Celebrations Under the Shadow of War
Christiane Tager 10/01 18:10 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Hezbollah Israel Beirut Tourism
Lebanon is traditionally renowned for its vibrant year-end celebrations and ski resorts. However, its tourism sector was severely impacted by the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. Foreign tourists were entirely dissuaded from visiting the Land of Cedars, and many Lebanese expatriates canceled their trip. The ceasefire between Hezbollah and ...
Rising Tensions Between Hospitals and Insurers
Christiane Tager 03/01 11:10 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
A heated conflict has erupted between the Syndicate of Hospital Owners in Lebanon and the Association of Insurance Companies. The Syndicate of Hospital Owners in Lebanon, led by Sleiman Haroun, has announced that, starting February 2, 2025, hospitals will increase the rates agreed upon with insurance companies by 15%. This increase is aimed at ...
TGS Secures 3D Seismic Survey License for Block No. 8
Christiane Tager 2024-12-11 10:49 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
The license granted by the ministry allows TGS to conduct a comprehensive 3D seismic study spanning 1,300 square kilometers, making Block No. 8 the only block among Lebanon's ten offshore blocks to undergo such a survey for the first time. In his address, caretaker Minister of Energy Walid Fayad described this development as a pivotal milestone ...
Year-End Celebrations: Resilience Amid Echoes of War
Christiane Tager 2024-12-06 13:50 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Year-end festivities in Lebanon are expected to unfold in a gloomy atmosphere, driven by regional instability and the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. The war has cast a shadow over the country, where tension is still palpable. Despite the challenges and lingering echoes of war in southern Lebanon and in Syria, the Lebanese are holding on ...
Lebanese Exports: Top Products and Destinations
Christiane Tager 2024-12-04 17:10 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Lebanese exports remain a vital pillar of the national economy despite significant challenges. Renowned for its agricultural produce, jewelry and wines, Lebanon continues to maintain a foothold in international markets. Key trading partners include nations in the Middle East, Europe and Africa. However, economic instability and logistical hurdles ...
Black Friday or the Day of Great Deals!
Christiane Tager 2024-11-30 09:30 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Black Friday, held annually the day after Thanksgiving—an American holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November—marks the start of the Christmas shopping season. This event is characterized by significant discounts offered by both physical stores and online retailers. In Lebanon, some businesses began their promotions last Friday and ...
The Toll of a Devastating Conflict
Christiane Tager 2024-11-27 10:00 - Reading : 4 minute(s)
Lebanon Hezbollah Israel Destruction
Lebanon finds itself once again at the heart of an exorbitantly costly conflict. The war between Israel and Hezbollah is not limited to military confrontation; it inflicts colossal damage on a country struggling to recover. Destroyed infrastructure, a paralyzed economy, and displaced populations — this conflict’s repercussions far exceed the ...
20 Lebanese Among Forbes’ 30 Under 30: A Breath of Hope for the Youth
Christiane Tager 2024-11-20 14:45 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Twenty Lebanese have been named to Forbes Middle East’s list of influential people under 30 for the year 2024, among 153 laureates from 24 different countries who are notable for their inventiveness and impact in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) on the list. The 153 outstanding talents under 30 from 24 different countries were revealed ...
Freight Insurance: The Impact of War on Prices
Christiane Tager 2024-11-20 10:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Due to the ongoing war between Hezbollah and Israel, freight insurance premiums have surged, adding further pressure on Lebanese trade and, consequently, on consumers. Armed conflicts significantly increase the risks associated with maritime and land transport. Ships and cargo can be targeted or suffer collateral damage from hostilities. ...
The Shadow of War on the Holiday Season!
Christiane Tager 2024-11-14 22:43 - Reading : 2 minute(s)
Hezbollah Israel Middle East tourism
As the year-end holidays approach, Lebanese expatriates who usually rush home to celebrate Christmas and New Year's with their families are now facing a grim reality. The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel is profoundly affecting Lebanon, turning it from a place of festivities and celebrations into a war zone. This year, behind the ...
Trade Under Fire: How Are Imports Faring in Times of War?
Christiane Tager 2024-11-14 09:30 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
The import of essential goods during wartime presents a major logistical and economic challenge for Lebanon. Importing companies, already weakened by multiple successive crises, are now facing exorbitant costs and increased risks in transport. It's been around two months since the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified, bringing a ...
'America First': What Economic Strategies Under Trump?
Christiane Tager 2024-11-13 17:20 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
Donald Trump European Union Gulf Middle East Trade
Donald Trump’s return to the White House would likely reinforce a protectionist and economically isolationist approach under the "America First" slogan, heightening challenges across international trade relations and geopolitical balances. If Trump pursues a protectionist economic policy (America First) and adopts a more radical vision of ...
Corm Raises Alarm Over Internet Vulnerability
Christiane Tager 2024-11-12 09:30 - Reading : 3 minute(s)
Lebanon Internet Alfa Touch Starlink
As connectivity becomes a lifeline for everyone, Lebanon faces a serious threat to its internet network. Johnny Corm, the caretaker Minister of Telecommunications, has issued a stark warning, cautioning that the country's internet is at significant risk. Speaking to This is Beirut, he explained that “Lebanon’s airspace is open, allowing ...