Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Production Index up 0.9%: GASTAT

Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Production Index up 0.9%: GASTAT
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Updated 10 July 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Production Index up 0.9%: GASTAT

Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Production Index up 0.9%: GASTAT

RIYADH: Manufacturing of chemicals and food items helped drive Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Production Index up 0.9 percent in May compared to the previous month, official data showed. 

According to the General Authority for Statistics, the 0.8 percent rise in this sector helped push the index to 106.3 points in the fifth month of 2024.

Compared to April, the manufacturing of non-metallic products also increased by 0.9 percent, while the production of coke and refined petroleum products decreased by 0.4 percent during the same period. 

Saudi Arabia’s growth in the manufacturing sector is crucial to achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2030, as the Kingdom is steadily diversifying its economy by reducing its reliance on oil. 

“In the manufacturing sector, Saudi Arabia will work toward localizing renewable energy and industrial equipment sectors,” according to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 website. 

The IPI is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes in the volume of industrial output. It is calculated based on production surveys.

However, Saudi Arabia’s overall IPI saw an annual decrease of 2.9 percent in May.

According to GASTAT, this decline in IPI was driven by a fall in mining and quarrying activities, which dropped by 9.7 percent year-on-year in May. 

This dip was attributed to Saudi Arabia’s decision to decrease its oil production to 8.9 million barrels per day in May 2024, aligned with an agreement by OPEC and its allies, known as OPEC+. 

To maintain market stability, the Kingdom reduced its oil output by 500,000 barrels per day in April 2023, and this cut has now been extended until December 2024.

“The index for oil activities in May 2024 decreased by 8.4 percent compared to the same month of the previous year due to the decline in oil production. While the index for non-oil activities increased by 12.8 percent, supported by an increase in all non-oil economic activities except for water activities,” said GASTAT in the report. 

The analysis revealed that manufacturing activities in the Kingdom witnessed a growth of 8.2 percent in May compared to the same month of the previous year, while electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply operations rose by 6.6 percent during the same period.


Oil Updates – crude falls on demand growth concerns, robust dollar

Oil Updates – crude falls on demand growth concerns, robust dollar
Updated 20 December 2024
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Oil Updates – crude falls on demand growth concerns, robust dollar

Oil Updates – crude falls on demand growth concerns, robust dollar

SINGAPORE: Oil prices fell on Friday on worries about demand growth in 2025, especially in top crude importer China, putting global oil benchmarks on track to end the week down nearly 3 percent.

Brent crude futures fell by 41 cents, or 0.56 percent, to $72.47 a barrel by 7:20 a.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell 39 cents, or 0.56 percent, to $68.99 per barrel.

Chinese state-owned refiner Sinopec said in its annual energy outlook, released on Thursday, that China’s crude imports could peak as soon as 2025 and the country’s oil consumption would peak by 2027 as diesel and gasoline demand weaken.

“Benchmark crude prices are in a prolonged consolidation phase as the market head toward the year end weighed by uncertainty in oil demand growth,” said Emril Jamil, senior research specialist at LSEG.

He added that OPEC+ would require supply discipline to perk up prices and soothe jittery market nerves over continuous revisions of its demand growth outlook. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, together called OPEC+, recently cut its growth forecast for 2024 global oil demand for a fifth straight month.

Meanwhile, the dollar’s climb to a two-year high also weighed on oil prices, after the Federal Reserve flagged it would be cautious about cutting interest rates in 2025.

A stronger dollar makes oil more expensive for holders of other currencies, while a slower pace of rate cuts could dampen economic growth and trim oil demand.

J.P. Morgan sees the oil market moving from balance in 2024 to a surplus of 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, as the bank forecasts non-OPEC+ growth increasing by 1.8 million bpd in 2025 and OPEC output remaining at current levels.

In a move that could pare supply, G7 countries are considering ways to tighten the price cap on Russian oil, such as with an outright ban or by lowering the price threshold, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.

Russia has evaded the $60 per barrel cap imposed in 2022 using its “shadow fleet” of ships, which the EU and Britain have targeted with further sanctions in recent days. 


Saudi Arabia drives MENA e-commerce growth during festive season: report

Saudi Arabia drives MENA e-commerce growth during festive season: report
Updated 19 December 2024
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Saudi Arabia drives MENA e-commerce growth during festive season: report

Saudi Arabia drives MENA e-commerce growth during festive season: report

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in driving a 44 percent increase in e-commerce orders across the Middle East and North Africa region during the 2024 festive season, according to a joint study by Flowwow and Admitad.

The surge was fueled by trends in mobile shopping, cultural celebrations, and gifting. Saudi Arabia led the way in mobile commerce adoption, with 62 percent of online purchases made via mobile devices.

The report also highlighted significant growth in the broader MENA e-commerce market, which is expected to reach $50 billion by 2025. During the holiday season, this market experienced a substantial uptick in activity.

Flowwow, a UAE-based gifting marketplace, reported a 62 percent rise in purchases, an 86 percent increase in sales turnover, and a 15.76 percent increase in average order value compared to the previous year.

Slava Bogdan, CEO of Flowwow, said: “The festive season is one of the peak shopping periods for Flowwow gifting marketplace. It’s a time when our customers focus on celebrating and sharing joy through thoughtful gifts for their loved ones.”

He continued: “Starting with White Friday in November and continuing through the Christmas and New Year festivities, this period represents a critical shopping time in the GCC region, especially with the growing expat population.”

According to the study, November emerged as the busiest month for e-commerce, driven by Black Friday sales and preparations for Christmas and New Year. Ramadan in March and International Women’s Day in January also contributed to sales growth, with increases of 11 percent and 14 percent, respectively.

Across the region, the average order value rose from $30 in 2023 to $36 in 2024, reflecting a shift toward higher spending on quality items.

The report further revealed that mobile commerce accounted for 44.6 percent of all orders in the region in 2024. Following Saudi Arabia’s lead, the UAE recorded 60 percent adoption, Bahrain had 59 percent, and Oman followed with 58 percent. Kuwait and Qatar also saw strong mobile commerce uptake at 57 percent and 54 percent, respectively.

Marketplaces continued to dominate, contributing to 67 percent of total sales. Key product categories included electronics, fashion, and home and garden, while high-value items like furniture and jewelry drove higher AOVs.

“This year’s surge in e-commerce activity demonstrates the evolving shopping habits in the MENA region, where mobile-first experiences and marketplace-driven sales have become the backbone of consumer behavior. Our data highlights how businesses can leverage these trends to optimize their strategies and grow significantly during peak seasons,” said Anna Gidirim, CEO of Admitad.

Among the countries in the region, Kuwait recorded the highest average order value at $127, followed by the UAE at $102, Egypt at $74, Saudi Arabia at $52, and Qatar at $50.

Pakistan saw the largest sales growth at 28 percent, with notable increases in Kuwait at 17 percent and Saudi Arabia at 8 percent, according to the survey data.

The report emphasized the importance of cultural celebrations in shaping consumer behavior and underscored the growing role of mobile commerce and marketplaces in the region’s e-commerce landscape.


Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 

Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 
Updated 19 December 2024
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 

Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index closed in red on Thursday, losing 68.61 points, or 0.57 percent, to settle at 11,892.44. 

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR10.9 billion ($2.9 billion), as 51 of the listed stocks advanced, while 185 retreated.  

The MSCI Tadawul Index also decreased by 8.95 points, or 0.60 percent, to close at 1,489.42. 

The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu gained 247.96 points, or 0.79 percent, to close at 31,444.21. This comes as 33 of the listed stocks advanced, while 49 retreated. 

The best-performing stock of the day was Savola Group, with its share price surging by 9.97 percent to SR36.95. 

Other top performers included Middle East Specialized Cables Co., which saw its share price rise by 5.14 percent to SR41.90, and Arabian Centers Co., which saw a 3.94 percent increase to SR21.62. 

Bawan Co. and Al-Baha Investment and Development Co. also saw a positive change, with their share prices surging by 3.64 percent and 3.23 percent to SR57 and SR0.32, respectively. 

The worst performer of the day was Fitaihi Holding Group, whose share price fell by 6.68 percent to SR4.05. 

Arabian Contracting Services Co. and AYYAN Investment Co. also saw declines, with their shares dropping by 4.17 percent and 14.42 percent to SR156.40 and SR3.87, respectively.  

Moreover, Raydan Food Co. and East Pipes Integrated Co. for Industry also saw declines in today’s session, with their share prices dropping by 3.32 percent and 3.30 percent to SR22.10 and SR135, respectively. 

On Nomu, the top performer was Leaf Global Environmental Services Co., with its share price surging by 13.29 percent to reach SR110. 

In second place was Intelligent Oud Co. for Trading, which saw an 8.92 percent surge in terms of share price to SR48.25, followed by National Environmental Recycling Co., which saw a 6.71 percent surge in its share price to reach SR8.11. 

Saudi Azm for Communication and Information Technology Co. and Gas Arabian Services Co. also fared well with 6.16 percent and 4.67 percent increases, respectively. 

On the announcement front, United Electronics Co., also known as eXtra, has recommended repurchasing up to 3 million ordinary shares to be held as treasury shares, according to a filing with the Tadawul. 

The board highlighted that the current market price of the company’s stock is below its fair value, prompting the buyback proposal. 

The repurchase will be financed through eXtra’s internal resources, including proceeds from the successful initial public offering of its subsidiary, United International Holding Co. 

Currently, 4.4 percent of eXtra’s share capital is held as treasury shares. The company highlighted that repurchased shares will not carry voting rights at shareholders’ meetings. 

The proposed buyback is subject to approval by the extraordinary general meeting. It will also require compliance with financial solvency requirements outlined in the executive regulations of the Companies Law governing listed joint-stock companies. 

ACWA Power Co. has also submitted a request to the Capital Market Authority to increase its capital through an SR7.13 billion rights issue, according to a bourse filing. 

The company stated that further updates regarding the capital increase will be disclosed in due course. 

Red Sea International Co.’s subsidiary, Fundamental Installation for Electric Work Co., has signed an agreement to increase its credit facilities with Saudi Awwal Bank by SR100 million, according to a statement to Tadawul. 

As a result, the total value of the facilities will rise to SR296.11 million, with the financing period extending until Dec. 18, 2025. 

The agreement includes a promissory note of SR296.10 million signed by Fundamental Installation for Electric Work, Red Sea International, and MSB Holding, as well as Fares Esamet Al-Saadi and Zeyad Al-Sayegh. 

Personal guarantees of SR14.50 million and SR29.01 million were also provided by Al-Sayegh and Al-Saadi, respectively, while MSB Holding and Red Sea International issued corporate guarantees of SR101.56 million and SR151.01 million, respectively. 

The additional credit facilities aim to increase the limit of letters of credit to support the import and procurement of goods for one of the company’s projects. 

United Electronics Co.’s share price increased by 3.05 percent in Thursday’s trading session to reach SR98. 

ACWA Power Co. Saw a 2.13 percent drop in its share price to close Thursday’s trading at SR377.60.

Red Sea International Co.’s share price dropped 1.06 percent to settle at SR0.60 by Thursday’s end.


NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation

NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation
Updated 19 December 2024
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NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation

NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation

RIYADH: NEOM has entered into a joint venture agreement with Samsung C&T Corp. to advance the development and deployment of construction automation technology in Saudi Arabia.

This strategic partnership will unlock an initial investment exceeding SR1.3 billion ($350 million) in construction robotics. The agreement comes just a week after NEOM signed a separate deal with GMT Robotics to fast-track the delivery of its ambitious projects.

According to the statement, the collaboration with Samsung C&T will focus on automating rebar cage assembly using advanced robotic welding and tying techniques. This innovation aims to enable the creation of large, pre-manufactured reinforcement cages, a key component in construction.

Rebar cages are critical tension devices used in concrete to form reinforced structures, providing strength to infrastructure projects. “Sustainability is a core principle at NEOM, driving not only what we build but how we build it. By automating labor-intensive processes through robotics, we are pushing the boundaries of construction innovation,” said Majid Mufti, CEO of the NEOM Investment Fund.

The automated rebar assembly technology is expected to reduce manual labor by up to 80 percent, minimize material waste, enhance safety and quality, and lower rebar cage assembly costs by up to 40 percent.

NEOM also emphasized that the agreement would establish rebar cage assembly factories in the region, creating over 2,000 skilled local jobs. This move is crucial to meet the extensive construction needs for THE LINE and other key developments within NEOM.

“Developing an advanced industrial manufacturing economy at NEOM is a significant step in accelerating modern construction methods across our flagship projects,” said Bandar Ashrour, sector head of design and construction at NEOM.

“This agreement will not only boost local talent but also align with Saudi Arabia’s vision to transform the Kingdom into a leader in advanced industries, ensuring long-term economic resilience and global competitiveness.”

NEOM’s partnership with Samsung C&T marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing development of the giga-project, positioning it as a leader in advancing construction technologies.

The JV will help NEOM leverage emerging technologies and forge strategic collaborations with industry giants to revolutionize construction practices in the region. “Together, we aim to revolutionize the construction industry by incorporating cutting-edge robotics and automation solutions, which will redefine how projects within NEOM are delivered,” said Hojin Jung, president and head of corporate new business at Samsung C&T Corp.

This joint venture underscores NEOM’s commitment to transforming the construction sector and highlights its role as a frontrunner in integrating innovative technologies within large-scale infrastructure projects.


Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh

Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh
Updated 19 December 2024
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Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh

Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh

RIYADH: Women’s leadership and achievements were the focus of a dynamic summit in Riyadh, where a series of panel discussions and workshops highlighted empowerment, career success, and navigating the changing business landscape.

The Forbes Middle East Women’s Summit, a two-day event held at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, concluded on Dec. 19, celebrating the significant contributions of women across the region.

The summit featured two primary stages: the Empowerment Arena and the She Leads Hub. Discussions at the Empowerment Arena explored vital topics, including advancing healthcare as part of Vision 2030, promoting women’s leadership, and redefining entrepreneurship.

At the She Leads Hub, panels delved into strategies for professional success, enhancing well-being and sustainability, and empowering women in leadership positions.

Notable attendees included Princess Doaa bint Mohammed, CEO of Al Mohra Education Co. and former supreme president of the Arab Women’s Authority, and Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud Al-Saud, secretary-general and board member of Alwaleed Philanthropies.

Princess Doaa bint Mohammed, CEO of Al Mohra Education Co. and Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud Al-Saud, secretary-general of Alwaleed Philanthropies attended the event. AN photo

Mishaal Ashemimry, the first female aerospace engineer in the Gulf Cooperation Council and founder of MISHAAL Aerospace, delivered an inspiring open mic session titled “The Hard Decisions You Have to Make to Pursue Your Passion.” She urged attendees to take bold steps in their careers, despite the obstacles they may face.

Speaking to Arab News, Ashemimry shared that her passion for space began during a family trip to the desert of Unaizah, a governorate in Al-Qassim.

“I looked up to the sky. I was called upon by the stars because I was very curious about them. I couldn’t get enough answers about the stars, so I decided, well, I gotta go to space to understand this stuff, and the only way to go to space is to make a rocket,” she said.

Ashemimry, who overcame numerous challenges from people who doubted and underestimated her, emphasized that resilience, determination, and perseverance are essential for success in business.

“You will fail and you will stumble. You will face people who will be against you. You need to believe in yourself and be determined enough to achieve what you want,” she added.

American-Jordanian abstract artist Aida Murad, one of the summit’s featured artists, presented a colorful collection of paintings. In an interview with Arab News, Murad shared her experiences as both an artist and entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia.

“I feel very empowered here. It’s a high-value-based culture, so when your values align, things become much easier. People and companies are also highly accessible here — more so than in other countries where I’ve done business. I think it’s because there’s a genuine eagerness to invite value-aligned individuals to Saudi Arabia,” she said.

Murad also highlighted the importance of adaptability and building connections as key strategies for business expansion.

She added: “Create a target list. It sounds simple, but it’s often the most basic things that people overlook. Take the time to read your audience. There are moments when they’re overwhelmed and others when they’re more available — timing is everything.”

Furthermore, she underscored the significance of understanding Saudi Arabia’s unique business culture. “There are countless events here for networking — attend them. It’s straightforward, but here, business isn’t conducted over emails as much as it is in person or through WhatsApp. Understanding how people communicate and conduct business here is crucial to building meaningful connections.”