Closing bell: Saudi main index dipped to close at 11,702 

Closing bell: Saudi main index dipped to close at 11,702 
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR5.77 billion ($1.55 billion) as 110 of the listed stocks advanced, while 106 retreated.  Shutterstock
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Updated 20 December 2023
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Closing bell: Saudi main index dipped to close at 11,702 

Closing bell: Saudi main index dipped to close at 11,702 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index dipped on Wednesday, losing 10.56 points, or 0.09 percent, to close at 11,702.90. 

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR5.77 billion ($1.55 billion) as 110 of the listed stocks advanced, while 106 retreated.  

Similarly, the MSCI Tadawul Index dipped 4.95 points, or 0.33 percent, to close at 1,512.51. 

The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu also dropped by 187.98 points, or 0.79 percent, to close at 23,726.95. This comes as 27 of the listed stocks advanced while as many as 30 retreated. 

The best-performing stock of the day was Saudi Automotive Services Co., whose share price surged 10 percent to SR69.30.  

Other top performers include Aldrees Petroleum and Transport Services Co. and Saudi Co. for Hardware, whose share prices soared by 9.93 percent and 6.35 percent to stand at SR157.20 and SR36, respectively. 

In addition to this, other top performers included Middle East Specialized Cables Co. and Saudi Steel Pipe Co. 

The worst performer was Al-Baha Investment and Development Co., whose share price dropped by 7.14 percent to SR0.13. 

Other worst performers were Alamar Foods Co. as well as Elm Co., whose share prices dropped by 3.99 percent and 2.63 percent to stand at SR91.50 and SR800, respectively. 

Moreover, other worst performers also include Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Co. and Abdulmohsen Alhokair Group for Tourism and Development. 

On the announcements front, Red Sea International Co. has signed a four-year deal with Baker Hughes to design and operate modular buildings supporting oil exploration in the Eastern Province.  

According to a Tadawul statement, the fully furnished units, resilient to harsh conditions, will serve as offices, dining areas, gyms, and more.  

Beyond construction, RSI will provide ongoing support services, including catering and utilities. Revenues are expected from the fourth quarter of 2024.


Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in green at 12,023

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in green at 12,023
Updated 17 sec ago
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in green at 12,023

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in green at 12,023
  • Total trading turnover of the benchmark index was $2.13 billion
  • MSCI Tadawul Index increased by 2.93 points, or 0.20%, to close at 1,492.19

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index rose on Monday, gaining  41.63 points, or 0.35 percent, to close at 12,023.03.

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR8 billion ($2.13 billion), as 142 of the listed stocks advanced, while 81 retreated. 

The MSCI Tadawul Index increased by 2.93 points, or 0.20 percent, to close at 1,492.19.

The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu surged by 80.08 points, or 0.31 percent, to close at 25,792.09. This comes as 38 of the listed stocks advanced while as many as 29 retreated.

The best-performing stock of the day was Buruj Cooperative Insurance Co., with its share price surging 9.99 percent to SR22.02.

Other top performers included Red Sea International Co. and Al-Baha Investment and Development Co., with share prices rising by 9.97 percent to SR32 and 8.33 percent to SR0.13, respectively.

Saudi Reinsurance Co. and Ash-Sharqiyah Development Co. also recorded positive trajectories on Aug. 19.

The worst performer of the day was Riyadh Cement Co., with its share price falling by 4.30 percent to SR25.60.

The Company for Cooperative Insurance and Arabian Pipes Co. also saw significant declines, with their shares dropping by 2.01 percent and 1.70 percent to SR165.40 and SR139, respectively.

Other worst performers included Almarai Co. and Naseej International Trading Co.

On the announcement front, Thimar Development Holding Co. signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding on Aug. 18 with Madar Al Khair Trading Co. to acquire up to 50 percent of Madar Al Khair, which has over 50 years of experience in livestock trading, fresh meat, and related industries.

In a statement on Tadawul, Thimar Development Holding Co. said that this partnership aligns with its strategic goals and the Kingdom’s vision for food security. 

Funding for the acquisition will be sourced from an upcoming capital increase and other financing options. The memorandum will become binding pending the completion of due diligence. 

Thimar is focused on diversifying investments for high returns with low risks and will announce further developments as they arise.


Saudi perfume maker Al Majed Oud to offer 30% of shares in IPO on Tadawul

Saudi perfume maker Al Majed Oud to offer 30% of shares in IPO on Tadawul
Updated 15 min 11 sec ago
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Saudi perfume maker Al Majed Oud to offer 30% of shares in IPO on Tadawul

Saudi perfume maker Al Majed Oud to offer 30% of shares in IPO on Tadawul

RIYADH: Saudi perfume manufacturer Al Majed for Oud Co. plans to launch an initial public offering on the Kingdom’s main stock market, releasing 30 percent of its issued share capital. 

A company statement revealed that the IPO will offer a maximum of 7.5 million shares. Of these, 2.25 million will be allocated to public funds.

The shares, which will be listed and traded on the Main Market of the Saudi Exchange, include 20 percent — or 1.5 million shares — reserved for retail investors. 

This move will help the firm raise capital, enhance share valuation, and reduce capital while maintaining corporate identity and improving its reputation to attract and retain employees. 

This comes as the fragrance market is expanding rapidly due to rising consumer preferences, higher disposable incomes, tourism growth, and increased digital adoption. 

According to a market study by Euromonitor International, the Saudi fragrance market is projected to increase at an 11.3 percent compound annual growth rate from 2023 to 2027, reaching SR13.4 billion ($3.57 billion) by 2027. 

This will be driven by increasing disposable incomes, women’s empowerment, and tourism, including Hajj and Umrah. 

Majed Ali Othman Al-Majed, chairman of Al Majed for Oud, said: “For over six decades, Al Majed for Oud has grown to become a major player in the regional oud and perfume industry. Our dedication to tradition and quality has allowed us to earn the trust and loyalty of our customers.” 

He added: “As we prepare to list on the Saudi Exchange, we are poised to begin a new chapter that integrates our rich legacy with innovation and strategic expansion.” 

One of the leading players in the Kingdom’s oud and perfume market, the company is expanding within the Gulf Cooperation Council region and offers over 650 products across 132 brands through 286 stores as of Dec. 31, 2023. 

It reported a 30.4 percent revenue increase in 2023, with revenues rising from SR442.5 million in 2021 to SR767 million in 2023, reflecting a 31.7 percent CAGR. Its profit margin improved to 66.6 percent in 2023, up from 61.7 percent in 2021. 

“This listing is driven by a strategic ambition to diversify our investor base and strengthen our business operations to accelerate our growth and expansion strategy both locally and internationally,” said Waleed Al-Majed, managing director and CEO at Al Majed for Oud. 

The intention to list Al Majed for Oud Co. on the Saudi Exchange comes as the Kingdom’s IPO market continues to expand. 

A PwC report from May highlighted Tadawul’s leading role in GCC IPOs, with the primary market hosting three offerings that raised $667 million and the secondary market generating $57 million from six deals. 


Riyadh Air partners with FIFA’s Concacaf as official airline

Riyadh Air partners with FIFA’s Concacaf as official airline
Updated 13 min 32 sec ago
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Riyadh Air partners with FIFA’s Concacaf as official airline

Riyadh Air partners with FIFA’s Concacaf as official airline
  • Deal aims to enhance airline’s presence in global sports
  • Also aims to. support Concacaf’s national and club competitions across the Americas

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air has secured a multi-year agreement to become the official airline partner of Concacaf, the FIFA Confederation for North, Central America, and the Caribbean. 

The deal aims to enhance the airline’s presence in global sports and support Concacaf’s national and club competitions across the Americas. 

Under the partnership, the Public Investment Fund-owned carrier will be involved in Concacaf’s men, women, and youth football events, reinforcing its role in the football community. 

The collaboration supports Riyadh Air’s goal of enhancing connectivity and contributing to football’s development. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions, including its bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, further establishing the Kingdom’s prominence in global sports and beyond. 

Osamah Al-Nuaiser, senior vice president of marketing and corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, said: “Our partnership with Concacaf will bring passionate football fans closer to thrilling games and action in countries and territories in the Concacaf region.” 

He also underscored the airline’s commitment to supporting football through its partnership with Concacaf. As the “Official Airline Partner,” the airline emphasizes its role in promoting and advancing the sport’s growth. 

The partnership increases the national carrier’s visibility and supports its goal of enhancing travel experiences through digital integration. It also expands Riyadh Air’s involvement in football, building on its earlier sponsorship with Athlético de Madrid, announced in August 2023. 

“This partnership with Riyadh Air marks an exciting new chapter for Concacaf. Their global vision will support us in elevating all aspects of football in Concacaf, from grassroots programs to our world-class tournaments,” said Philippe Moggio, general secretary of Concacaf. 

He continued: “We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will create, connecting fans across continents and inspiring them to passionately follow the beautiful game.” 

The Saudi carrier is set to begin operations in 2025 and plans to serve over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, aiming to enhance Saudi Arabia’s role as a key global travel hub. 

Riyadh Air’s deal with Concacaf follows the announcement of the governing body’s multi-year partnership with PIF signed on Aug. 15. This agreement aimed to enhance football across North and Central America and the Caribbean. 

The partnership will support football development at all levels and improve Concacaf’s tournaments for men, women, and youth. 

It aligns with major upcoming events, including the Concacaf Champions Cups, the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US. 

The agreement emphasizes strengthening football development initiatives and expanding access to the sport for youth across all 41 Concacaf member federations.


Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury bond holdings rise to $140.3bn in June

Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury bond holdings rise to $140.3bn in June
Updated 19 August 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury bond holdings rise to $140.3bn in June

Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury bond holdings rise to $140.3bn in June

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s holdings of US Treasury bonds increased to $140.3 billion in June, reflecting a 26.73 percent year-on-year rise. 

Data from the US Treasury Department showed the Kingdom maintained its position as the 17th largest holder of these securities, which are known for their stability and liquidity.

Saudi Arabia and other nations invest in these bonds for their safety, diversification benefits, and alignment with their economic relationships with the US. 

The Kingdom is the only Arab nation among the top 20 holders of US Treasury securities.  

Saudi Arabia’s June holdings were also up month on month, with the May figure standing at $136.3 billion.

This increase highlights Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence in global financial markets and its strategic use of sovereign wealth to bolster its economic standing. The rise in US Treasury holdings aligns with the Kingdom’s financial strategy to diversify investments beyond oil revenues. 

This growth in Saudi Arabia’s holdings reflects a broader pattern seen across the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, where other member states have also maintained substantial investments in US Treasury securities.  

The UAE held $65.2 billion in US Treasury bonds as of June, demonstrating a slight decrease from the $66.5 billion it held in May. 

Kuwait has maintained a steady presence in the US Treasury market, with its holdings standing at $50.8 billion in June.  

This figure is consistent with previous months, indicating a stable investment strategy that prioritizes steady returns and minimal risk exposure. 

Oman and Qatar, though smaller in scale compared to their GCC counterparts, also contribute to the region’s collective investment in US Treasury bonds.  

Oman’s holdings were recorded at approximately $7.6 billion in June, while Qatar’s holdings reached around $7.4 billion during the same period. 

Bahrain also participated in this trend, though its holdings are more modest. As of June, its investments in US Treasury bonds were valued at $1.2 billion. 

The data collected is primarily from US-based custodians and broker-dealers. Since American securities held in overseas accounts may not be attributed to the actual owners, the department said, the data may not provide a precise accounting of individual country ownership of treasury securities.


Saudi Arabia to sign real estate deals with US during minister’s visit 

Saudi Arabia to sign real estate deals with US during minister’s visit 
Updated 19 August 2024
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Saudi Arabia to sign real estate deals with US during minister’s visit 

Saudi Arabia to sign real estate deals with US during minister’s visit 

RIYADH: Multiple US-Saudi real estate agreements are set to be signed during a five-day visit by a leading official from the Kingdom to the North American country.

Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail began his tour on Aug. 18, engaging in high-level meetings with government officials and industry leaders, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The visit is focused on attracting leading American companies to the Saudi market, particularly in real estate development, financing, and supply chains as well as modern construction technologies, and urban infrastructure.

This comes as Saudi Arabia aims to improve access to affordable, quality housing through its national housing strategy, targeting a 70 percent homeownership rate by 2030.

In a post on his X account, Al-Hogail said: “In the state of Virginia, we opened a Sakani exhibit at the Saudi Cultural Mission, establishing a new point of contact for our citizens in the US to access the housing and financing options provided by the Sakani Program.” 

He added that this initiative reflects their deep commitment to supporting the aspirations of younger generations and enabling them to build their futures with confidence and peace of mind.

In an additional post, the minister said he also met with Saudi students in the US who attended the housing exhibit, adding that the discussions shed light on his ministry’s empowerment initiatives in engineering, financial management, and artificial intelligence.
 
He added: “I assured the students that our homeland eagerly awaits their return with pride and honor for their achievements.”
 
During his visit, the minister will explore successful US urban development projects and assess opportunities to implement similar initiatives in the Kingdom, as reported by SPA.
 
In July, Saudi Arabia’s Housing Program, part of Vision 2030, released its 2023 analysis. The report revealed that the homeownership rate among the Kingdom’s households reached 63.74 percent by the end of 2023, a 16.7 percentage point increase since 2016. This rate also surpassed the 2023 target of 63 percent.
 
The analysis also indicated that over 96,000 households benefited from accommodation support in 2023 through the same program, which helped cover housing costs. Additionally, more than 20,000 homes were assisted through ownership pathways via developmental housing.