HSBC Egypt hosted nearly 300 clients, business leaders, and industry experts at its annual Economist Roadshow, where leading economists discussed key developments in global markets, the regional outlook, and their implications for Egypt's economy. Janet Henry, HSBC's Global Chief Economist, and Simon Williams, Chief Economist for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, shared insights on growth prospects, risks, and emerging opportunities in a complex global environment.
The event opened with remarks from Todd Wilcox, Deputy Chairperson and CEO of HSBC Bank Egypt, who stated that Egypt is entering a new phase of stability and opportunity as economic reforms begin to produce tangible results.
"Egypt is entering a new chapter of stability and opportunity. The reform programme is starting to crystallise into real economic improvements," Wilcox said. "With clearer policies and a more flexible operating environment, we are seeing renewed investor confidence across sectors and trade corridors. Our role as business leaders is to accelerate this momentum and turn confidence into sustainable, long-term growth."
On global economic trends, Janet Henry warned that markets may be underestimating inflationary pressures. "With sticky inflation and a relatively resilient economy supported by fiscal stimulus, markets still appear to be pricing in too many interest-rate cuts in 2026," she said.
Focusing on Egypt's macroeconomic outlook, Simon Williams noted that while challenges persist, the ongoing rebalancing process is laying the groundwork for recovery. "It is too soon to relax, but the rebalancing now under way opens the door to a proper recovery next year," he said. "Over the longer term, structural reform will be critical. If Egypt gets it right, it could become an 8% growth story. Failure to deliver, however, would cap growth and leave the economy vulnerable to fresh shocks."
The Economist Roadshow continues to provide a platform where global insights meet local opportunities, helping clients and partners navigate economic changes, anticipate market shifts, and identify pathways for sustainable growth. The event also reaffirmed HSBC's role as a trusted partner supporting Egypt's long-term vision for economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable development.