Gulf Stock Markets End Mixed Amid Geopolitical and Economic Developments

Impact of U.S. Policy Shift on Investor Sentiment

Gulf stock markets closed with mixed results on Thursday as investors reacted to U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest geopolitical statements. His proposal to take control of Gaza and develop it economically after resettling Palestinians elsewhere sparked diplomatic turmoil, influencing investor confidence in the region.

Saudi Market Gains on Mining Sector Strength

• Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index (.TASI) rose 0.2%.

• The gains were driven by a 4.1% surge in Saudi Arabian Mining Company (1211.SE).

Dubai Stocks Advance on Property and Infrastructure Strength

• Dubai’s main index (.DFMGI) increased by 0.5%.

• The rise was fueled by:

  • Emaar Properties (EMAR.DU) gaining 0.7%.

  • Parkin Company (PARKIN.DU) surging 3.3%.

• UAE’s foreign trade hit a record 3 trillion dirhams ($816.86 billion) in 2024, as announced by Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Abu Dhabi Market Dips Despite Strong Bank Earnings

• Abu Dhabi’s index (.FTFADGI) dropped 0.2%.

• First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB.AD) fell 1.5%, despite:

  • Posting a 4.2 billion dirhams net profit for Q4.

  • Seeing a 4% year-on-year increase but a significant drop from Q3’s 46% growth.

Qatar’s Market Declines on Banking and Utility Weakness

• Qatar’s index (.QSI) fell 0.4%.

• The decline was led by:

  • Qatar National Bank (QNBK.QA) dropping 0.9%.

  • Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC.QA) slipping 2.4%.

Egypt’s Market Sees Strong Gains Led by Tobacco Sector

• Egypt’s blue-chip index (.EGX30) climbed 0.9%.

• The rally was driven by:

  • Eastern Company (EAST.CA), the tobacco monopoly, surging 6.6%.

Conclusion

Gulf markets remained volatile amid geopolitical uncertainty and economic shifts, with Saudi Arabia and Dubai posting gains, while Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Egypt showed mixed trends. Investors are closely watching global and regional developments, including the U.S. policy stance and corporate earnings, for further market direction.