The banking industry has had a tough year, especially in oil-producing regions like the GCC where surpluses have shrunk and deposits diminished, placing pressure on lending activity and causing problems for corporates seeking business financing. Lending attitudes have become more conservative as banks focus instead on diversification and profit growth – so where should businesses look for funding in these tightened times? Unsurprisingly, Islamic banks are proving to be a bright spot, and their rapid growth and strong capital buffers....