Key Economic News – Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Global and Arab markets are witnessing active trading today, driven by interest rate developments, energy markets, and geopolitical shifts.

Oil and Energy Markets

- Resumption of oil pumping via the East-West pipeline: Saudi Arabia announced the gradual resumption of pumping through the East-West pipeline toward Yanbu on the Red Sea. This development eased supply concerns and led Fitch to forecast downward pressure on Brent crude prices.

- Developments in the Strait of Hormuz: Geopolitical tension persists regarding maritime corridors and shipping, amidst reports and diplomatic discussions that are helping to temper the surge in crude oil prices.

Monetary Policies and Central Banks

- U.S. Federal Reserve: There is a sense of anticipation regarding speeches by Federal Reserve officials following the decision to hold or adjust the interest rate range, as investors focus on signals concerning the future path of interest rates and inflation levels.

- Interest Rate Hold in Morocco: Morocco’s central bank (Bank Al-Maghrib) announced it is maintaining its key interest rate at 2.25%, noting that inflation rates remain at low levels.

Financial and Commodity Markets

- Gold: Gold is experiencing a phase of volatility and sideways movement, lacking clear directional momentum as it is influenced by a balance between expectations regarding US interest rates and geopolitical tensions.

- Artificial Intelligence and the Technology Sector: Shares of major technology companies continue to rise, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and the announcement of new models and digital products (such as those announced by Chinese and US tech firms).