Black Friday or the Day of Great Deals!

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

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

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

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!

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?

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?

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

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 ...

Trump 2024 Sparks Optimism in Financial Markets

Global markets responded enthusiastically to Donald Trump’s victory as President of the United States. The US 10-year Treasury yield spiked above 4.4%, climbing 15 basis points overnight, while Wall Street opened with strong gains after the Republican win. Dow Jones futures surged 1,100 points pre-market, and Bitcoin broke past the $75,000 mark, ...

Rage and Despair: Lebanon's Missed Opportunities

Lebanon, a country with undeniable economic potential, has been experiencing a period marked by conflicts and socio-economic crises for several years. Beyond the human and material losses resulting from these events, it is essential to reflect on the missed opportunities that could have transformed the country's landscape and repositioned it on ...

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Lebanon's Staggering Loss Figures

Since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah on October 8, 2023, Lebanon has endured significant human and economic losses, further weakening a country that faces serious political and economic challenges. The impact of the persisting conflict is felt across all sectors. In an interview with This is Beirut, financial and ...

In Numbers: The Endangered Sectors

Lebanon, already grappling with severe economic and political crises, is now facing the devastating impact of the ongoing military conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. This war has plunged nearly every sector of the country into a critical state, from infrastructures, the private sector, and agriculture to energy, water, and trade. The ...