
IPFS News Link • Economy - International
Saudi Arabia crushed by cheap oil - and the cuts are coming
• http://money.cnn.com
Saudi Arabia's finances are getting slammed by the crash in oil prices.
The government spent way more than it collected in 2015 -- leading to a budget deficit of nearly $100 billion.
Oil accounts for 75% of Saudi Arabia's revenue, and when crude prices were sky high, the country enjoyed frequent budget surpluses. Now oil has collapsed below $35 a barrel, compared to over $100 in mid-2014.
Saudi Arabia also said it spent more than expected on social security benefits and salaries for government workers and military members.
As a results, cuts are coming: The budget calls for a 14% reduction to 840 billion riyals ($224 billion), down from 975 billion ($260 billion).