Fitch Ratings has upgraded Egypt’s credit outlook to positive, reflecting growing confidence in the North African nation’s economic prospects following an international bailout of $57 billion.
The upgrade comes as Egypt secured a landmark bailout package to bolster its cash-strapped economy and provide much-needed relief amidst economic challenges exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and the global pandemic.
Fitch affirmed Egypt’s credit rating at B-, positioning it six notches below investment grade. However, the shift in outlook to positive shows the country’s progress in addressing external financing risks and implementing crucial economic reforms.
The positive outlook follows Egypt’s recent agreements, including a $35 billion investment deal with the United Arab Emirates as well as additional support from international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
According to Fitch Ratings, the reduction in near-term external financing risks can be attributed to the significant investment pledges from the UAE, coupled with Egypt’s adoption of a flexible exchange rate regime and the implementation of monetary tightening measures.
These measures have enabled Egypt to navigate its foreign exchange challenges and mitigate the impact of years of managed currency policies.
The recent jumbo interest rate hike has also facilitated the devaluation of the Egyptian pound, addressing one of the country’s most pressing economic issues.
Egypt has faced mounting economic pressures in recent years, including foreign exchange shortages exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the region.
Challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and security threats in the Israel-Gaza region have further strained the country’s economic stability.
In response, Egyptian authorities have embarked on a series of reform efforts aimed at enhancing economic resilience and promoting private-sector growth.
These efforts include the sale of state-owned assets, curbing government spending, and reducing the influence of the military in the economy.
While Fitch Ratings’ positive outlook signals confidence in Egypt’s economic trajectory, other rating agencies have also expressed optimism.
S&P Global Ratings has assigned Egypt a B- rating with a positive outlook, while Moody’s Ratings assigns a Caa1 rating with a positive outlook.