Saudi market will launch a new generation of investment products, focusing on debt, derivatives, and data. The move aims to strengthen liquidity, support capital formation, and attract both domestic and international investors.
Khalid Al-Hussan, CEO of the Tadawul Group, said the Saudi market is experiencing its fastest growth phase in decades. He added that the exchange races to introduce new offerings while preparing for digital expansion using AI and blockchain technologies.
Over the past eight years, the Saudi market has grown significantly. The number of listed companies rose from 100 to over 380, and total market capitalization exceeded $2.5 trillion, reflecting strong investor demand and economic expansion.
Al-Hussan highlighted that IPOs since 2018 have raised more than $130 billion. The market has also developed debt instruments, exchange-traded funds, and derivatives. He noted that foreign investors now hold over $110 billion, with more than 4,400 registered participants.
He emphasized that the exchange aligns its indices with global standards. This alignment gives international investors confidence in the Saudi market’s regulations and technology infrastructure.
The upcoming products focus on three areas. First, debt instruments will provide financing for public and private sectors while deepening the secondary market. Second, derivatives will boost liquidity, offering investors new hedging and diversification options. Third, data becomes an investment asset, supporting market depth and global competitiveness.
Tadawul’s technology arm, Wamid, drives this transformation. The company invests in AI, blockchain, and digital assets, acquired Direct Financial Network Co., and signed 13 technology partnerships to strengthen market capabilities.
Al-Hussan stated that the Saudi market reflects the Kingdom’s economic growth. Since Vision 2030, capitalization has risen through higher prices and a larger volume of issuances. He highlighted the rapid inclusion in MSCI indices as proof of market maturity.
Finally, he pointed to global capital shifts. Investors increasingly move funds toward the Middle East and Asia, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront. Declining interest rates, geopolitical stability, and strong economic growth boost the Kingdom’s attractiveness.
The Saudi market expects these new investment products to expand market depth, stimulate innovation, and attract greater global participation.
