馃嚥馃嚘MoroccoNorth Africa
Moroccan banks face major transformations driven by digital and competition, KPMG reports
via Le Matin3 min read
The Moroccan banking sector is undergoing a structural reorganisation, influenced by economic, technological, and competitive changes that challenge traditional retail banking models. This evolution occurs amid the gradual withdrawal of some international players, consolidation around national banking groups, and the emergence of new technological entrants, according to KPMG in Morocco. Mohammed Berrada, Advisory Director in charge of Financial Services at KPMG in Morocco, states that the sector is at a structural turning point, requiring increased adaptability from institutions. He views this reorganisation as a significant opportunity to enhance competitiveness, agility, and customer proximity. The disengagement of international groups creates strategic space for Moroccan banks, which are consolidating and expanding their regional ambitions, particularly in Africa, through investments in modernising offerings, infrastructure, and customer journeys. KPMG also notes an evolving competitive landscape, especially in electronic payment and acquisition activities, fostering new integrated and innovative payment solutions for merchants and individuals. Despite growing technological maturity, digitalisation has not yet led to widespread financial inclusion, even with a favourable environment driven by digital adoption, mobile penetration, and a developing fintech ecosystem. New models, such as 100% digital banks and embedded finance solutions, are beginning to redefine banking rela
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Moroccan referee Jalal Jiyed, assisted by compatriots Zakaria Brinsi and Mustapha Akerkad, has been appointed by FIFA to officiate the World Cup 2026 group stage match between Portugal and Uzbekistan. South African Tom Abongile will serve as the fourth official, assisted by Zakhele Siwela. This marks the second assignment for the Moroccan trio, who previously officiated the Germany vs. Cura莽ao match. Portugal drew their first match against the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-1, while Uzbekistan lost 3-1 to Colombia. The upcoming match is crucial for both Portugal and Uzbekistan's qualification hopes. Notably, an Uzbek referee, Ilgiz Tantashov, recently officiated a match involving Morocco's Atlas Lions against Scotland.
Following Morocco's 1-0 victory over Scotland, coach Mohamed Ouahbi assessed the team's performance in the 2026 World Cup, where they have accumulated four points from two matches against Brazil and Scotland. Ouahbi highlighted the team's collective control and improved offensive intentions compared to their draw against Brazil. He noted that while Scotland played more directly with long balls, Morocco effectively countered their strategy. Despite their strong position, Ouahbi emphasized that qualification is not yet secured and the team's objective is to defeat Haiti in the final group match to ensure qualification and potentially secure first place. He also stated that he would field the best possible team against Haiti, considering player freshness, opponent profile, and match context, rather than systematically rotating the squad. Ouahbi also publicly supported captain Achraf Hakimi, who is facing legal proceedings, stating that Hakimi was focused, motivated the team, and played an excellent match. Ouahbi praised the team's mental fortitude and expressed confidence in their ability to advance to the round of sixteen as group leaders.
Bank Al-Maghrib has issued a warning to all banks regarding a global surge in cybercrime campaigns exploiting public interest in the 2026 World Cup. The central bank notes that these threats include the distribution of malware via fake applications or match streaming platforms, as well as phishing campaigns designed to trick users into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials and banking details. Bank Al-Maghrib urges banks to enhance customer awareness efforts and emphasize key vigilance rules. These include exercising caution before installing match-streaming applications, avoiding links received via email, SMS, or social media that offer broadcasts or promotional deals, verifying website authenticity before entering personal or banking data, and immediately reporting any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions to the bank. The central bank also instructs banking institutions to relay these vigilance messages to their customers through appropriate communication channels.