Closing Bell: Saudi benchmark index rises 1.24 percent to close at 12,175

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR6 billion ($1.59 billion) as 143 of the stocks advanced, while 84 retreated. File
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR6 billion ($1.59 billion) as 143 of the stocks advanced, while 84 retreated. File
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Updated 28 July 2024
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Closing Bell: Saudi benchmark index rises 1.24 percent to close at 12,175

Closing Bell: Saudi benchmark index rises 1.24 percent to close at 12,175
  • MSCI Tadawul Index gained 22.36 points, or 1.49%, closing at 1,524.49
  • Best-performing stock of the day was Kingdom Holding Co.

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index ended the week’s first trading session on Sunday by gaining 149.22 points, or rising 1.24 percent, to close at 12,175.43.
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) as 143 of the stocks advanced, while 84 retreated.
The Kingdom’s parallel market, Nomu, also rose 82.97 points, or 0.31 percent, to close at 26,502.98. This comes as 36 stocks advanced while 34 retreated. 

The MSCI Tadawul Index gained 22.36 points, or 1.49 percent, closing at 1,524.49. 

The best-performing stock of the day was Kingdom Holding Co. The company’s share price surged 9.95 percent to SR8.95. 

Other top performers included Miahona Co. and Saudi Manpower Solutions Co. 

The worst performer was Almunajem Foods Co., whose share price dropped by 4.66 percent to SR98.20. 

Sabic Agri-Nutrients Co. announced its interim consolidated financial results for the period ending June 30. 

According to a Tadawul statement, the firm’s net profit stood at SR1.54 billion at the end of the first six months of 2024, down 5.26 percent when compared to the corresponding period in 2023. 

The decrease in net profit included a 6 percent drop in average selling prices, which was limited by a 2 percent increase in sold quantities. 

Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Services Group has also announced its interim financial results for the first six months of 2024. 

A bourse filing revealed that the firm’s net profits reached SR1.1 billion in the period ending on June 30, reflecting a 13.2 percent surge compared to the first six months of 2023. 

The rise in net profit was mainly attributed to the revenue growth following an increase in the number of patients. 

The company also announced a board of director’s decision to distribute SR409.5 million in cash dividends to shareholders for the second quarter of 2024. 

The total number of shares eligible for dividends amounted to 350 million, with the dividend per share standing at SR1.17, according to a separate Tadawul statement. 

It also revealed that the percentage of dividends to the share par value stood at 11.7 percent.

National Shipping Co. of Saudi Arabia, also known as Bahri, announced its interim financial results for the period ending June 30. 

A bourse filing disclosed that the firm’s net profit climbed 20 percent year on year to reach SR1.18 billion in the first six months of 2024. This surge was primarily linked to an increase in gross profit and finance income. 

“Bahri had a good first half of this year and delivered commendable operational performance across our divisions,” CEO of Bahri Ahmed Ali Al-Subaey said in a statement. “Our success was driven by optimized fleet management and route efficiency, supported by improved market conditions for VLCCs (very large crude carrier) and chemical tankers.”

The Capital Market Authority has issued its resolution approving Arabian Contracting Services Co.’s request to increase its capital from SR500 million to SR550 million. This will be done by issuing one bonus share for every 10 owned by the shareholders enlisted in the registry at the Securities Depository Center as of the closing of the second trading day after the due date, which will be determined later by the firm’s board. 

According to a statement, such an increase will be paid by transferring SR50 million from the “retained earnings” account to the company’s capital. 

Qualified investors can start subscribing to 750,000 shares of ASG Plastic Factory Co. on July 28. The firm is set to list on the Nomu parallel market at a price between SR40 and SR44 per share. 

The offered holdings represent 10.64 percent of the post-initial public offering capital of SR70.5 million or 11.90 percent of the pre-IPO capital, divided into 7.05 million shares at a par value of SR10 each.


Amman Chamber of Industry exports dip to almost 4% in 8 months

Amman Chamber of Industry exports dip to almost 4% in 8 months
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Amman Chamber of Industry exports dip to almost 4% in 8 months

Amman Chamber of Industry exports dip to almost 4% in 8 months
  • Chemical and cosmetic industries topped the exports list, totaling 1.10 billion dinars
  • EU nations exported 235 million dinars, while non-EU European countries received 96 million dinars

RIYADH: Exports from the Amman Chamber of Industry have decreased by 3.94 percent during the first eight months, reaching 4.55 billion Jordanian dinars ($6.42 billion), compared to the same period in 2023.

Three sectors experienced declines in exports, with the mining industries witnessing the greatest drop of 35.6 percent, according to the Jordan News Agency.

A decrease of 4.6 percent was also reported by the office supply, packaging, paper, and cardboard industries, while exports from the construction sector fell by 23.1 percent.

Other exports increased in seven areas, ranging from 2.4 percent for the food, agriculture, and livestock sectors to 22.1 percent for the chemical and cosmetics industries.

During this time, the US, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and India accounted for four major markets for more than half of the chamber’s exports, which totaled 2.90 billion dinars.

Compared to 782 million dinars during the same period in 2023, exports to the US saw a notable 53.2 percent increase, reaching 1.20 billion dinars in the first eight months of 2024.

This expansion established the US as the primary destination for Amman’s industrial exports.

Similarly, shipments to Iraq increased by 10.8 percent to 609 million dinars from 549 million dinars during the same period last year.

Exports to the Kingdom fell 5.5 percent to 521 million dinars, down from 551 million dinars during the same term in 2023. Exports to India also declined dramatically, by 37.6 percent, to 567 million dinars from 908 million dinars.

Arab countries dominated the geographical distribution of exports from the Amman Chamber of Industry, with exchanges of 2.01 billion dinars.

Non-Arab Asian nations followed with 833 million dinars, while African countries earned 23 million dinars in exports.

Exports to North America totaled 1.22 billion dinars, with South American countries importing goods worth 61 million dinars.

EU nations exported 235 million dinars, while non-EU European countries received 96 million dinars. Exports to other global markets totaled 66 million dinars.

The chemical and cosmetic industries topped the Amman Chamber of Industry exports list, totaling 1.10 billion dinars. The mining division followed with exports of 947 million dinars, while the engineering, electrical, and computer technology sectors accounted for 712 million dinars.

Other significant fields included the food, agricultural, and livestock industries, which exported products worth 521 million dinars. Medical and pharmaceutical exports reached 448 million dinars, and leather and textile exchanges totaled 350 million dinars.

Exports from the plastic and rubber industries amounted to 201 million dinars, while the packaging, paper, cardboard, and office supplies sector contributed 181 million dinars.

The construction division exported goods valued at 76 million dinars, and the wood and furniture industries added 14 million dinars in exports.

Founded in 1962, the Amman Chamber of Industry currently represents 8,600 industrial establishments, employing around 159,000 workers, with a total capital of approximately 5 billion dinars.


Oman’s credit grows to $81.6bn in July, up 3.8% yearly

Oman’s credit grows to $81.6bn in July, up 3.8% yearly
Updated 19 min 5 sec ago
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Oman’s credit grows to $81.6bn in July, up 3.8% yearly

Oman’s credit grows to $81.6bn in July, up 3.8% yearly

RIYADH: Oman’s total outstanding credit from other depository corporations reached 31.4 billion Omani rials ($81.6 billion) by June, reflecting a 3.8 percent year-on-year increase, according to official data.

The Central Bank of Oman’s latest bulletin reported a 2.3 percent rise in credit extended by traditional commercial banks during this period. Support for the private sector grew by 1.6 percent, totaling 20.5 billion rials by the end of June. Additionally, investments in securities by commercial banks surged by 22.4 percent, reaching approximately 5.6 billion rials.

These developments align with Oman’s Vision 2040, which focuses on diversifying revenue sources, improving financial inclusion, and boosting private sector engagement. The plan aims to enhance the financial sector’s contribution to gross domestic product, promote digital transformation, and increase foreign direct investment in key industries.

Despite the overall growth, investments in government development bonds declined by 8.3 percent year on year to 1.9 billion rials. In contrast, investments in foreign securities saw a significant increase of 67.9 percent, totaling 2.2 billion rials by the end of June.

On the liabilities side, total deposits at commercial banks grew by 10.9 percent, reaching 24.7 billion rials. Government deposits decreased by 0.9 percent to 5.3 billion rials, while deposits from public sector institutions increased by 12.1 percent to 1.8 billion rials. Private sector deposits rose robustly by 11.5 percent, reaching 16.5 billion rials, making up 66.8 percent of total deposits.

Parallel to the banking sector’s growth, Oman’s oil exports saw a slight increase despite reduced production. By the end of July, total crude oil exports amounted to approximately 179 million barrels, with an average price of $82.5 per barrel. Preliminary data from the National Center for Statistics and Information indicates that oil exports accounted for 84.5 percent of the Sultanate’s total oil production, which was 211.8 million barrels.

Vision 2040 seeks to balance maximizing energy revenues with long-term sustainability. The strategy emphasizes improving oil production efficiency, investing in advanced technologies, and expanding the role of renewable energy while gradually reducing the economy’s reliance on oil.

Although oil exports increased by 0.05 percent compared to the previous year, production decreased by 5.2 percent to 211.9 million barrels. Crude oil production saw a notable 7.1 percent decline, reaching 162.2 million barrels, while condensate production increased by 1.6 percent to 49.6 million barrels. Oman’s average daily oil production until July was 994,800 barrels.

China remained the largest importer of Omani oil, with total exports reaching 171 million barrels, a 4.8 percent increase from the same period in 2023. Japan followed with 3.456 million barrels, reflecting a sharp 40.9 percent decline, while South Korea imported 2.5 million barrels, a 28.1 percent increase over the previous year.


Saudi Arabia scraps export customs fees, cuts import charges

Saudi Arabia scraps export customs fees, cuts import charges
Updated 1 min 30 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia scraps export customs fees, cuts import charges

Saudi Arabia scraps export customs fees, cuts import charges

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia will eliminate fees for all customs services related to exports and cut import service fees to 0.15 percent of the goods’ value starting Oct. 6, according to an official release.

The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority announced these changes to simplify trade processes and support business activities. The new fee structure introduces a SR15 ($4) charge for customs declaration processing on individual shipments from online stores valued up to SR1,000.

Previously, import fees included SR100 for X-ray inspections per container, SR100 for information exchange services, and SR20 for customs declaration processing. Under the revised system, the maximum import fee will be capped at SR500, with a minimum fee of SR15.

These adjustments are designed to reduce financial burdens on exporters, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, and to enhance competitiveness. The updated fee structure will standardize costs across land, sea, and air transport, leading to more efficient trade facilitation and economic benefits.

ZATCA has detailed the expected impacts of its new customs fee waiver for Saudi businesses, noting that the changes will enhance the competitiveness and efficiency of the country’s export sectors. The adjustments are designed to reduce import costs and simplify trade procedures, aiming to support the growth of e-commerce.

The introduction of a SR15 flat rate for shipments purchased through online stores underscores ZATCA's commitment to advancing e-commerce and digital trade. This measure is expected to benefit Saudi Arabia’s growing e-commerce sector by lowering cross-border online shopping costs and increasing accessibility to global goods for Saudi consumers.

Recently, ZATCA has announced a series of new initiatives intended to improve trade operations and support the Kingdom’s economic growth, aligning with the nation’s Vision 2030. These initiatives include the Saudi Authorized Economic Operator Program, which aims to streamline customs clearance for trusted businesses. This program provides faster processing, fewer inspections, and priority handling at customs ports for businesses that consistently adhere to regulations.

The Authorized Economic Operator Program is anticipated to simplify international trade for these trusted operators and enhance overall efficiency.

In a major step toward digital transformation, ZATCA has also launched the National Single Window for Trade, known as FASAH. This platform consolidates all trade-related operations into a single digital interface, enabling businesses to manage import and export procedures electronically. FASAH simplifies document submission, approval processes, and shipment tracking, thereby reducing delays and improving transparency in trade operations.

Additionally, ZATCA has rolled out advanced e-tracking systems for shipments entering Saudi customs. This new system offers real-time tracking of goods, helping to minimize delays, reduce fraud risk, and boost logistics efficiency. The implementation of these e-tracking systems represents a significant advancement in Saudi Arabia’s supply chain management.

To encourage greater participation from SMEs in international trade, ZATCA has introduced supportive measures such as customs duty deferrals and simplified clearance procedures. These initiatives aim to ease financial and administrative burdens on SMEs, fostering their growth and engagement in global markets.

In June 2024, ZATCA relaxed the temporary admission regulations for heavy machinery and equipment. This policy change benefits international contractors working on major infrastructure projects by reducing customs duties on temporary imports and eliminating the need for frequent renewals, thereby facilitating smoother and more cost-effective project execution.

ZATCA invites customers and taxpayers to reach out with any inquiries through its unified 24/7 call center at (19993), its X account @Zatca_Care, email at [email protected], or via instant chat on the authority's website at zatca.gov.sa.


Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy grows 4.9% in Q2: GASTAT 

Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy grows 4.9% in Q2: GASTAT 
Updated 08 September 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy grows 4.9% in Q2: GASTAT 

Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy grows 4.9% in Q2: GASTAT 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s non-oil activities expanded 4.9 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2024, driven by gains in the financial and insurance sectors, official data showed.  

According to data from the General Authority for Statistics, the financial, insurance, and business services sectors surged 7.1 percent in the second quarter compared to the same period last year.  

Non-oil activity also rose 2.1 percent compared to the previous quarter, reflecting the Kingdom’s efforts to broaden its economic base. 

The non-oil sector's growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic plan aimed at reducing the country's reliance on oil revenues. 

The report further revealed that Saudi Arabia’s seasonally adjusted gross domestic product increased by 1.4 percent in the second quarter compared to the first.  

However, GDP saw a slight year-on-year decline of 0.3 percent in the same period, largely due to an 8.9 percent drop in oil activities following the Kingdom’s decision to cut crude output in line with OPEC+ agreements. 

To stabilize the market, Saudi Arabia reduced oil production by 500,000 barrels per day in April 2023, a cut that has been extended until December 2024. 

GASTAT also noted that the Kingdom’s GDP at current prices reached SR1.02 trillion ($270 billion) in the second quarter.  

“Crude oil and natural gas activities achieved the highest contribution to the GDP at 23.2 percent, followed by government activities at 16 percent, and wholesale and retail trade, restaurants, and hotels activities with a contribution of 10.1 percent,” stated GASTAT.  

Government activities increased by 3.6 percent year-on-year and by 2.3 percent quarter-on-quarter.  

Meanwhile, electricity, gas, and water activities saw an 8.9 percent rise year-on-year, while wholesale and retail trade, restaurants, and hotels grew by 6.8 percent. 

The report also highlighted that government final consumption expenditure rose by 10.9 percent year on year and 4.3 percent quarter on quarter.  

In the second quarter, gross fixed capital formation increased by 3.2 percent compared to the same period last year. 

With continued investments in key sectors such as financial services, infrastructure, and energy, Saudi Arabia remains focused on achieving the goals set out in its Vision 2030 blueprint. 


Emaar The Economic City launches $2.32bn capital optimization plan 

Emaar The Economic City launches $2.32bn capital optimization plan 
Updated 08 September 2024
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Emaar The Economic City launches $2.32bn capital optimization plan 

Emaar The Economic City launches $2.32bn capital optimization plan 

RIYADH: Saudi master developer Emaar The Economic City, the firm behind King Abdullah Economic City, has unveiled a SR8.7 billion ($2.32 billion) capital optimization plan aimed at restructuring its financial framework.  

The move, approved by the board, includes restructuring SR3.8 billion in bank debts, converting SR4.0 billion of debt owed to the Public Investment Fund into equity, and introducing a SR1 billion convertible shareholder facility from PIF, according to a press release. 

The plan also involves a capital reduction to offset accumulated losses, with the goal of stabilizing EEC’s financial position and setting the stage for long-term value creation.  

This comes as EEC strengthens its focus to key sectors, including industrial and logistics, tourism, and real estate. 

KAEC, designated as a Special Economic Zone, is set to attract more businesses and residents, further advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives. 

Fahad Al-Saif, chairman of EEC, said: “The implementation of the COP, which underpins EEC’s Board-approved strategy, will enable the company to capitalize on available opportunities to align its direction with Saudi Vision 2030.”  

He added: “It also provides the blueprint for a stable platform for growth, focused on unlocking the full potential of KAEC and enhancing the sustainability of our business. We are setting the stage for a transformation that will not only drive value creation, but also redefine our role in the Kingdom to achieve the goals of Vision 2030.” 

The restructuring will consolidate bilateral credit facilities from lenders including Alinma Bank, Saudi Awwal Bank, Banque Saudi Fransi, and Saudi National Bank into a single Shari’a-compliant syndicated facility.

“This carefully devised plan does more than fortify our balance sheet; it sets the stage for us to seize opportunities with greater agility. As we undertake the strategic rebalancing of our financial framework, our objective is clear: to improve our leverage ratios and bolster overall financial health,” said Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al-Nowaiser, CEO of EEC. 

In parallel, he revealed that the company is evaluating a series of structural and functional measures aimed at restoring EEC to full financial health, while also strengthening key relationships with stakeholders.  

Additionally, it plans to periodically refresh its “long-term strategy to establish a clear roadmap” for reviving the company's ability to fulfill its core mission of developing the property and delivering shareholder value. 

King Abdullah Port, a major maritime hub, is expected to drive growth, while KAEC’s infrastructure projects, including a new stadium and multiple hospitality ventures, are aimed at boosting the city’s appeal as a tourism and business destination. 

In the first half of 2024, EEC made progress by attracting investors and implementing cost optimization measures, supporting the company’s turnaround efforts. 

Moelis & Co. serves as an independent advisor on the debt restructuring, with SNB Capital as financial advisor for the capital decrease and debt conversion, the release added.