Muscat: The Economic and Financial Committee of the Shura Council held its fifth meeting of the second annual session (2024–2025) of the tenth term, under the leadership of Ahmed Saeed Al Sharqi. The session included participation from committee members and discussions with experts from the Oman Investment Authority (OIA) and the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) to evaluate the effects of recent initial public offerings (IPOs) by government-owned enterprises.
During the meeting, the committee reviewed the current state of the MSX, with a particular emphasis on the trading performance of recently listed government entities.
Key topics of discussion included the underperformance of certain IPOs, the effects on market liquidity, and the inflow of both foreign and local capital, as well as the overall influence of global financial markets on the MSX.
Representatives from the OIA delivered a visual presentation detailing the authority’s divestment strategy, which aims to bolster the private sector through both primary and secondary offerings.
This strategy is designed to direct proceeds into priority sectors that align with Oman’s economic diversification objectives.
The presentation also covered past divestments and outlined future initiatives, including an IPO for ASYAD Shipping.
Furthermore, officials from the MSX provided insights into the overall performance of the stock market and discussed the exchange’s role in preparing the market, investors, and brokers to facilitate the success of upcoming listings.
The meeting wrapped up with comprehensive discussions among committee members regarding OIA’s future IPO initiatives, targeted sectors, and anticipated financial and economic outcomes.
Members also considered strategies to further enhance the performance of the MSX, building on its positive market trajectory in recent years.
