Ziad Daoud

Saudi Arabia's first-quarter budget deficit, the largest since late 2018, reflects both the impact of the Iran conflict and deliberate policy choices to accelerate investments in alternative trade routes. The government increased capital spending by 56% and defense outlays by 26% to support the non-oil economy amid war-driven uncertainty, while still potentially achieving a lower full-year deficit than the previous year's 5.8% of GDP.

Ziad Daoud analyzes the potential impact of a war with Iran on the Gulf region, highlighting strategic and geopolitical consequences. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route, is mentioned as a key area of concern.