Arab Finance: The third week of September saw several notable developments across Egypt’s economy, including a 33.7% rise in the number of foreign companies established in the country during the first half (H1) of 2026.

Here are the top 10 stories that shaped the week:

1-Egypt sees 33.7% rise in newly established foreign companies in H1 2026

A total of 5,022 foreign companies were established in Egypt during the first half (H1) of 2026, up 33.7% from 3,757 companies in the same period in 2025.

2-Fed hikes rates for 1st time since 2023 amid geopolitical tensions

The US Federal Reserve has decided to raise its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 3.75% to 4%, marking its first increase since 2023.

3-Egypt-Saudi Arabia bilateral trade up 20.3% in H1 2026: CAPMAS

Trade exchange between Egypt and Saudi Arabia hit $7.1 billion in the first six months of 2026, 20.3% up from $5.9 billion a year earlier.

4-Egypt qualifies 7 consortia for Hurghada Airport PPP tender

Egypt has advanced the tender process for the management, operation, and development of Hurghada International Airport under a public-private partnership (PPP)

5-Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd to reroute 4 Gemini services via Suez Canal

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will shift four Gemini Cooperation services to the Suez Canal instead of sailing around the Cape of Good Hope.

6-Korra Energi EGM approves EGP 405M increase in issued capital

Korra Energi's extraordinary general meeting (EGM) has approved raising the company’s issued and paid-up capital by EGP 405 million through a rights issue for existing shareholders.

7-Entlaq, ED Ventures sign partnership deal to drive edtech innovation in Egypt

Entlaq and ED Ventures have entered a partnership to support Egypt’s entrepreneurship ecosystem and bolster innovation in the education technology sector.

8-Qalaa Holdings moves to raise indirect stake in ERC to 27.1%

Qalaa Holdings’ board has approved purchasing an additional stake in the Egyptian Refining Company (ERC) to raise its indirect stake in ERC to 27.1% from 13%.

9-Banque Misr UAE transferred $1.8B to Iran since 2025: US Treasury Secretary

Banque Misr UAE has transferred more than $1.8 billion to Iran since 2025, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said before the House Financial Services Committee.

10-FRA tightens consumer finance rules on gold, precious metals

The Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) has issued two circulars to consumer finance companies, introducing restrictions on the financing of precious metals and new rules governing return rates.