The Saudi stock market closed marginally lower, reflecting cautious investor sentiment despite several upbeat corporate announcements. The Tadawul All Share Index declined 6.92 points, or 0.07 percent, finishing the session at 10,427.06.
Trading activity remained steady, with turnover reaching SR6.55 billion ($1.74 billion). Moreover, 160 stocks advanced, while 89 recorded losses, highlighting a mixed performance across sectors. The MSCI Tadawul 30 Index also retreated, slipping 3.90 points, or 0.29 percent, to 1,358.14.
In contrast, the Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu edged higher. It gained 37.71 points, or 0.15 percent, to close at 24,950.56. Market data showed 39 gainers against 35 losers, suggesting selective interest in smaller-cap names.
Among leading performers, Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co. surged 9.95 percent to SR26.08. Saudi Ceramic Co. climbed 6.65 percent to SR29.20, while the National Shipping Co. of Saudi Arabia rose 6.36 percent to SR23.90. United International Holding Co. advanced 5.26 percent to SR156, and Gulf General Cooperative Insurance Co. improved 4.03 percent to SR4.65.
On the downside, Saudi Real Estate Co. slipped 2.53 percent to SR15.79. Furthermore, Al Moammar Information Systems Co. dropped 2.23 percent to SR131.50, reflecting mild profit-taking pressure.
Meanwhile, telecom operator Zain KSA made headlines by signing a SR5.5 billion Murabaha facility agreement. The deal, announced Monday, involves a consortium of five regional and local banks: Al Rajhi Bank, Arab National Bank, Saudi National Bank, Riyad Bank, and Gulf International Bank.
The agreement, signed on September 14, carries a five-year term with a one-year grace period. Full repayment is scheduled by September 30, 2030. According to Zain KSA, the funding will refinance SR4.7 billion in existing Murabaha loans and clear SR500 million in receivables financing, both maturing later this month.
SR300 million from the facility will support operational and investment requirements. Company executives stated that the deal enhances liquidity and gives the firm flexibility for future strategic projects. The facility, secured by a promissory note, is set to take effect on September 30.
Despite the financing announcement, Zain KSA shares declined 1.64 percent, ending at SR10.18. Analysts noted that investors often book profits after major disclosures, even when fundamentals remain solid.
Looking forward, market experts expect the Saudi stock market to remain stable, supported by ongoing economic reforms and healthy corporate activity. They believe fresh financing deals, along with infrastructure growth, may continue attracting regional and international investors to the Kingdom’s capital markets.
