Hitachi Data Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hitachi, is looking to develop new partnerships in Bahrain.

By creating a strong local presence through local partners, Hitachi aims to expand its regional business to provide closer support to its customers.

'Bahrain has the region's first-mover advantage in terms of a mature finance market, but it's now facing competition as neighboring countries are building up competitive counterparts,' said general manager and sales director for Middle East, North Africa, Turkey and Pakistan Tony Ward.

'To remain in the lead and enhance its competitive edge, Bahrain's finance institutions will need a solid, reliable technology infrastructure, data protection and management, as regulatory compliance will become necessary, and not optional.

'This will require investment of time and effort, as well as capital, if Bahraini businesses are to face competition and meet global standards. The need to manage robust amounts of data in an efficient manner is key to a company's organisation and in turn their success.'-TradeArabia News Service