Asian Banks’ Gulf Lending Faces Uncertainty as Iran Conflict Escalates

Asian banks Gulf lending exposure is facing renewed uncertainty as escalating tensions linked to Iran raise risks for financing activity in the Middle East, Bloomberg reported.

Asian and Chinese banks extended more than USD15bn of loans to the region last year, triple the previous year, with most funding directed to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Analysts said some lenders may take a wait‑and‑see approach or demand higher pricing rather than exit deals if tensions remain contained, underscoring risks surrounding Asian banks Gulf lending.