A higher financial inclusion ranking for Saudi Arabia, and a stronger brand valuation for Aramco

Saudi Arabia climbed three places to 27th in the 2026 Global Financial Inclusion Index, with its score rising to 48.6 from 45.0, according to the Principal Financial Group and the Centre for Economics and Business Research report (pdf). The Kingdom ranked second globally for SME growth support, fifth for AI governance, and eighth for employer support. It also scored highest among the 42 markets assessed for its fintech strategy, placing it among five “Next Gen Leaders” with the potential to become future global fintech leaders.

MEANWHILE- Aramco retained its position as the world’s second most valuable oil and gas brand in 2026, with its brand value rising 14% y-o-y to USD 47.3 bn, according to Brand Finance. This marks its strongest brand value growth in four years. Shell held the top spot for the 12th consecutive year, with a brand value of USD 51.8 bn.