Coming to Terms With Saudi Reform

Saudi Arabia is positioning itself to move forward with its Vision 2030 plans, the kingdom's recently announced long-term economic roadmap. A brief message from King Salman on May 7 announced a major government shake-up, making clear the Saudi leadership is serious about economic reforms. A total of eight economics-related portfolios were shifted, all closely in line with Vision 2030 imperatives. The king's message -- which announced the retirement of the internationally known Saudi oil minister as well as major changes to the kingdom's financial leadership -- made waves with an international audience, and indicated the kingdom is serious about its reforms....