Oman pushes markets to help fund local growth

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MUSCAT, NOV 11 Oman’s capital market must expand its role in financing projects and business growth, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) said,...

Oman’s capital market must expand its role in financing projects and business growth, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) said, as trading on the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) exceeded RO 10.29 billion in the first ten months of 2026.

Market capitalisation reached RO 38.59 billion, according to figures highlighted by the authority alongside remarks by its Executive President, Abdullah bin Salim al Salmi, at the Ubhar Capital Investment Dialogue 2027.

Al Salmi said stronger financial intermediaries, diversified investment products and broader investor participation were needed to channel savings into long-term investment and strengthen the market’s contribution to economic growth.

“We need to see the market used as a means of financing for projects,” he said.

Recent listings, market makers and liquidity providers had improved trading conditions, but the next phase should encourage businesses to raise fresh capital, including for green projects, rather than primarily allow existing shareholders to sell stakes.

Bonds and sukuk could help finance investment in the Sultanate of Oman, alongside equity offerings, he said, broadening funding options in an economy heavily reliant on banks.

The FSA also identified financing for small and medium enterprises, an expanded range of investment products and greater investor participation as priorities supporting Oman Vision 2040.

Al Salmi said the securities framework required investment banking activities to be housed in entities separate from commercial banks, although commercial banks would be permitted to own those businesses fully.

Strengthening investment banks, brokers, asset managers and other intermediaries would help connect companies seeking financing with investors. The authority highlighted market liquidity and transparent pricing as essential to investor confidence and market efficiency.

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