PIF said to ready USD 40 bn play that would make it world’s biggest investor in AI

1

WHAT WE’RE TRACKING TODAY

Saudi’s PIF said to be pursuing USD 40 bn, world-scale artificial intelligence play

Good morning, friends. We have a reasonably busy issue for you this morning, starting with a late-breaking:

The Public Investment Fund may be cooking up a world-scale AI play, with officials said to be exploring the setup of a USD 40 bn fund to invest in artificial intelligence, the New York Times reports. The fund would make PIF the world’s largest investor in AI and it could start investing as early as the second half of this year.

Possibly on board: Andreessen Horowitz, also known as A16Z, long one of Silicon Valley’s highest-profile venture capital firms. Co-founder Ben Horowitz is said to be a friend of PIF Governor Yasir Al Rumayyan, with the two having reportedly spent time together socially last month in Los Vegas for the SuperBowl.

The fund would invest in everything AI, from chipmakers and AI companies to data centers, the Times says in its exclusive.

This means we all have two must-reads this morning. A16Z co-founder Marc Andreessen is a polarizing figure in some circles, but he’s been the clearest and most enthusiastic communicator on the notion that “software is eating the world,” an idea he first pushed in a seminal 2011 essay. It shouldn’t be a surprise, then, that he sees massive potential in AI.

GO DEEPER yourself in two Andreessen essays that made big waves last year — and that still resonate across the Valley:

HAPPENING TODAY-

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will land in Jeddah today for talks with officials here as part of his sixth trip to the Middle East since the crisis in Gaza erupted in October, the State Department said yesterday. Blinken travels to Cairo tomorrow.

Ceasefire top of the agenda: “the Secretary will discuss efforts to reach an immediate ceasefire agreement that secures the release of all remaining hostages, intensified international efforts to increase humanitarian assistance to Gaza, and coordination on post-conflict planning for Gaza … and a political path for the Palestinian people with security assurances with Israel,” the statement reads in part.

ALSO TODAY- The US Federal Reserve wraps its two-day meeting. Nobody expects it to announce a rate cut this evening (Saudi time), but pundits will be scouring its statement for hints of when it might start. A Moody’s analyst tells CNBC that “I expect them to reaffirm three rate cuts this year, so that would suggest the first rate cut would be in June.”

AND- Shares of Saudi Cables will resume trading on the main market today after Tadawul lifted a near two-year suspension imposed due to a delay in disclosing financial statements, according to a statement yesterday. Tadawul had permitted the trading of the company’s shares over the counter since August 2023. The company is back in the black with net income of SAR 33.5 mn in 9M 2023, after accumulating net losses worth SAR 117.5 mn in 9M 2022.

WEATHER- The gloomy weather saga continues: Brace for some moderate to heavy rainfall in some parts of Riyadh today, with a daytime high of 24°C daytime and an overnight low of 17°C.

The nasty weather looks set to continue for a while: We’re looking at scattered thunderstorms throughout the capital city from Friday through Monday, according to our favorite weather app.

In Jeddah, it’s shaping up to be a little windy, with a daytime high of 29°C and an overnight low of 23°C.

Meanwhile, Dammam is also in for clouds with temperatures oscillating between a daytime high of 24°C and an overnight low of 17°C. Expect showers on Friday.

So, when do we eat? Maghrib prayers are at 6:05pm in the capital city, and you’ll have until 4:38am tomorrow to hydrate and caffeinate ahead of fajr. It’s day 10 of Ramadan.

WATCH THIS SPACE-

#1- GCC wants to fast-track talks on Schengen visa waiver scheme: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Al Budaiwi stressed to members of the EU’s Political and Security Committee the importance of considering Schengen visa exemptions to GCC nationals, according to a statement by the GCC yesterday. Al Budaiwi said he hoped the meeting in Brussels would help fastrack the talks, which “requires a series of long procedures on the European side.”

BACKGROUND- GCC nations have been looking to strike an agreement with the EU that would see Gulf citizens exempted from Schengen visas. Al Budaiwi highlighted earlier this month Gulf nationals’ “positive presence” in Europe through tourism, education, healthcare, and trade exchange.

#2- IPO WATCH- Nomu-listed Canadian Medical Center has appointed Al Rajhi Capital as its financial advisor to quarterback its transition to Tadawul’s main market, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul yesterday. The move is still subject to approval from the exchange.

#3- Mining giant Ma’aden said a key subsidiary is still securing regulatory approvals for its acquisition of a 10% stake in Brazilian miner Vale’s base metals unit, according to a disclosure to Tadawul yesterday. The transaction, which had been expected to close in 1Q 2024, is taking more time than projected because of “connections to multiple regulatory bodies in more than one country.”

BACKGROUND- Manara, a JV between the Public Investment Fund and Ma’aden, sealed an agreement with Brazilian miner Vale last year to grab a 10% slice of its base metals unit as it eyes a pivotal role in the global energy transition supply chains. The sale values Vale at USD 26 bn.

#3- The backlog at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam has begun easing after the General Ports Authority (Mawani) obliged shipping agents and tenants at storage yards in the port’s logistics zone to work around-the-clock, sources told Al Eqtisadiah yesterday. Mawani has handed fines to more than 17 shipping agents for not following its instructions to work 24/7 to help clear the backlog, spokesperson Khaled Al Ghaith said, without providing further details.

The Houthi crisis in the Red Sea is to blame: Congestion in King Abdulaziz Port came after most Jeddah-bound maritime traffic was directed to the port in Dammam in reaction to ongoing attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. The crisis saw container handling at Dammam growing by 41.3% y-o-y in February to reach a record high of 235.8k TEUs.

DATA POINTS-

The local Real Estate Market saw the execution of 31.2k transactions worth a combined SAR 35.2 bn since the beginning of 2024, Aleqtisadiyah reports citing an unnamed judicial source.

The details: Residential properties accounted for 85.1%, followed by commercial properties at 12%, then agricultural properties. Riyadh accounted for 46% of the transactions with 14.3k trades worth SAR 21.5 bn, followed by Makkah at 5.6k transactions worth SAR 6.3 bn, and the Eastern Province with 4.9k transactions worth SAR 4.5 bn.

PSA-

#1- TGA cracks down on unlicensed passenger transport: The Transport General Authority (TGA) has issued a warning that companies running unlicensed passenger transports will be slapped with fines of SAR 5k for each violation.

THE BIG STORY ABROAD-

Leading the front pages this morning:

In Gaza, starving children fill hospital wards as famine looms (Reuters)
The dilemma impeding an Israel-Hamas ceasefire (Wall Street Journal)
Israel’s ban on Palestinian workers is hurting both economies (Bloomberg)
In Hong Kong, China’s grip can feel like ‘death by a thousand cuts’ (New York Times)

Private is the new public — again? Calpers, the biggest pension fund in the United States, wants to see private equity and credit investments account for 40% of its AUM, up from 33% now. The move will see it pour some USD 30 bn or more into private equity after the fund said it thinks it cost up to USD 18 bn in returns by not piling into PE earlier.

Reports of the death of EV manufacturing are greatly exaggerated, if you’ll allow us to quote Mr. Twain this morning. German carmaker Audi is looking into the possibility of manufacturing EVs in the US of A, piggybacking on unused space at a plant owned by parent company Volkswagen. So maybe Saudi isn’t the only one sticking with EVs…

From Planet AI: Google is talking to Apple about becoming the baked-in provider of generative AI services on iPhones (it already has an agreement that makes it the default search engine of Safari) and Microsoft just hired the founder of DeepMind to run its consumer AI unit.

AND- Is the UAE seeking its own trade agreement with Europe, looking to bypass stalled GCC talks? That’s Reuters’ contention in an exclusive out overnight. A UAE official said the claim of separate talks was “baseless and unfounded.”

CIRCLE YOUR CALENDAR-

The four-day Townhall Expo is slated for Thursday, 2 May, at Holiday Inn Hotel in Riyadh, featuring over 200 projects from Saudi-Egyptian real estate developers and investors who are aiming to wrap up EGP 2 bn in real estate transactions during the expo.

The three-day Smart Future Expo will open its doors on Monday, 13 May, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center. The gathering will include execs, investors, startups, and exhibitors, offering insights into smart tech including AI, AR, digital twin, cybersecurity, cloud computing, blockchain, business intelligence, IoT solutions, big data, and 3D printing.

Projects tracking and analysis platform Meed is hosting the Saudi Giga Projects 2024forum on Monday, 13 May, at Crowne Plaza Riyadh, convening contractors, suppliers and top industry execs. The summit will provide an overview of the USD 870 bn mega projects currently under development across the Kingdom including Qiddiya, Roshn, and Neom.

Meed will also be hosting its annual MENA Construction Summit 2024 on Tuesday, 14 May, at the same venue, where industry leaders will have a chance to network and discuss the challenges and potentials of construction tech, climate change resilience and sustainable development in the digital economy.

The two-day Future Projects Forum kick starts on Monday, 20 May, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh, where contractors and investors will be able to meet 40 project owners including Aramco, the PIF, Investment Ministry, Asir Municipality, Mawani, Modon, and the Transport General Authority. The forum is expected to feature projects worth SAR 1 tn where contractors and investors can access information about these projects and weigh their bidding success chances.

Cityscape Global is slated for 11-14 November 2024 in Riyadh. Last year the real estate event hosted 160k visitors, 380 speakers, 300 exhibitors and saw transactions worth a combined USD 30 bn close.

^^ Check out our full Calendar on the web for links to all of these conferences.

Almarai looks to expand in North Africa and Iraq, downplays Savola exit plans

Dairy giant Almarai is looking to expand in North Africa and Iraq as it looks to diversify outside of the Kingdom, its Chairman Prince Naif bin Sultan Al Kabeer told Al Arabiya in an interview (watch: runtime: 7:18). “A promising market for us is North Africa, it is among the markets we are currently assessing to enter, along with the market in Iraq,” he said, without specifying which North African markets the dairy manufacturer would be looking to tap. Outside of the GCC, Almarai currently operates Egypt (under the Beyti brand) and Jordan.

The Almarai chairman distanced the company from Savola’s decision last month to offload its full 34.5% stake in Almarai to existing shareholders. “We have nothing to do with Savola’s decision. Savola is a fraternal company, but Almarai is not concerned in any way. We’re focused on our [planned] expansion for now…,” he said. Savola is the dairy producer’s biggest shareholder, followed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which holds a 16% stake through one of its units.

BACKGROUND- Almarai unveiled earlier this week a five-year strategic plan seeing it pour SAR 18 bn to help maximize sales. It plans to ramp up investment in supply chain, development, sustainability, operational efficiency, and technology.

Miners exploring for copper, rare earths in Saudi Arabia could get access to SAR 685 mn incentive program

The Industry and Mineral Resources Ministry has unveiled a fresh incentives package worth SAR 685 mn to boost mineral exploration in the Kingdom, it said in a post on X yesterday. The program is being rolled out in collaboration with the Investment Ministry and aims to reduce early-stage risk for exploration companies.

Ironing out the details: Companies with valid exploration licenses of under five years could unlock up to SAR 7.5 mn for each license, according to the ministry. Each firm can qualify for up to 15 licenses in accordance with the program’s terms and conditions.

We knew this was in the works: The Industry and Mineral Resources Ministry announced plans for the mineral exploration incentive program earlier this year as part of efforts to expand the sector and tap reserves of gold, phosphate and others.

Who’s eligible: Companies prospecting for critical minerals including copper, lithium nickel and rare earth minerals (REE), according to the ministry’s mining platform Taadeen. Activities should also be focused on underexplored regions. Preference will go to companies that build local talent and that have track records in greenfield exploration.

The policy context: The nation’s untapped mineral resources are now worth as much as USD 2.5 tn, or 90% more than the last forecast in 2016, officials said earlier in January.

JEDDAH + LONDON METAL EXCHANGE

MEANWHILE- Jeddah could become a regional hub for trade in copper and zinc after the London Metal Exchange (LME) said it plans to list the city as a delivery point for the metals, according to a statement yesterday. The LME said the listing is subject to consultation on a technical change to its warehouse location framework. Jeddah would serve the Middle East, North and East Africa region, according to the statement.

What they said: “Saudi Arabia is an increasingly important global metals hub, and Jeddah fully meets with the operational and logistical criteria for new warehouse locations – such as being an important area of net consumption and having an effective transport network,” LME CEO Matthew Chamberlain said.

What’s next: Consultation on the proposal which would see relevant stakeholders amending a general clause in the LME’s policy on the approval of locations as delivery points related to warehouse insolvency. It aims to clarify “that some jurisdictions may require a court order to allow the withdrawal of metal” in case of warehouse operator insolvency. If passed, Jeddah will become an active delivery point after three months of approval for setting up the first warehouse company in the site.

Cabinet approves agreement to set up IMF regional office in Riyadh

The Cabinet has approved a headquarters agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that will see the Washington-based lender make Riyadh its regional headquarters, state news agency SPA reported yesterday. No further details were provided.

And an official day for the Saudi Green Initiative: The Cabinet has set 27 March of each year as an official day for the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI). Launched in 2021, the SGI outlines three targets for a sustainable long-term climate action through emissions reduction across key sectors, greening the nation and bolstering biodiversity.

Also approved at yesterday’s Cabinet meeting:

Mandating the Tourism Ministry to discuss and sign a MoU for tourism promotion between the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and South Korean counterparts;
Mandating the Culture Ministry to discuss and sign a MoU in the cultural field with Turkey;
Mandating the Environment, Water and Agriculture Ministry to discuss and sign a MoU in fisheries and aquaculture with Algeria;
A MoU between the Finance Ministry and Egyptian counterparts to establish a high-level financial dialogue;
A MoU with Sierra Leone in air transport services;
A MoU between the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH) to ensure the quality of halal products.

How Tadawul, Nomu fared in 2023. Plus: Listing requirements

Tadawul is the largest stock market in the MENA region with a market capitalization of SAR 11.3 tn at the end of 2023 with a 14% y-o-y increase, according to the latest Tadawul figures (pdf). Tadawul was followed by the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), and Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE).

Last year saw 35 companies debut on the local exchanges — eight on the main market Tadawul and 27 on Nomu, the report reads. Tadawul topped the list of MENA exchanges in terms of the number of IPOs in 4Q 2023 accounting for 14 out of 19 regional offerings, according to an EY report.

A 2023 snapshot: The main market saw SAR 1.3 tn worth of shares traded by the end of last year — a 22% y-o-y increase. Brokers had some 94 mn opportunities to generate trading fees. Meanwhile, Nomu closed 2023 with a market cap of SAR 48 bn. Some 638 mn shares were traded last year with a combined value of SAR 8 bn through the execution of 679k transactions.

Tadawul and Nomu have strong pipelines in place for 2024, including Aramco’s potential blockbuster secondary sale.

On the main market: eXtra, Modern Mills, and Smasco all (or will soon have) live transactions, while Singapore’s Olam Group, hypermarket operator Lulu, and Aster DM Healthcare are exploring listings here.
On Numu: Yaqeen Capital and Al Taqat Mineral have said they’re eyeing IPOs

FAST FACT– MBC, which went public earlier this year with a USD 222 mn share sale, is the world’s top performing this year.

SOUND SMART- Nomu is Tadawul’s version of London’s AIM, offering lighter listing and financial reporting requirements in a bid to attract companies at earlier stages of development, including smaller businesses and startups. There is no profitability requirement to list on Nomu, which is open only to qualified investors (read: most day-trading retail investors need not apply). Want to go deeper?Tap or click here.

Wondering what requirements companies must meet to list on Tadawul or Nomu? Here’s the list:

Corporate structure: Issuers on Tadawul and Nomu must be joint-stock companies, ensuring a structured and regulated corporate entity;
Operational history: Tadawul issuers must have engaged in a primary business activity for at least three consecutive financial years under consistent management, while Nomu issuers need only one year;
Size: Tadawul issuers must meet a minimum market capitalization of SAR 300 mn, while that figure is only SAR 10 mn for Nomu companies;
Minimum float: Tadawulissuers must float at least 30% of issued shares, while Nomu issuers must float at least 20% of their issued shares or SAR 30 mn worth of shares— whichever is lower;
Profitability track record: Unlike the main market, no profitability track record is required of Nomu issuers, enabling newer companies to access the capital market;
Public shareholders: Tadawul issuers must have at least 200 public shareholders at the time of listing — ensuring a broad investor base — while Nomu issuers can have only 50 shareholders;
Financial transparency: Tadawul issuers must have published audited financial statements covering a minimum of the previous 3 financial years. This rule isn’t applicable to Nomu issuers;
Restructuring period: If the Tadawul issuer has undergone restructuring, a waiting period of one financial year post-restructuring completion is necessary before listing. This rule isn’t applicable to Nomu issuers;

Advisory appointment: While appointing a financial advisor is mandatory, the appointment of a legal advisor is optional for Nomu issuers;
Direct listing: Nomu Issuers can opt for a direct listing without offering new shares through selling shares owned by existing shareholders directly on the exchange once the stock begins trading;
Earnings results: Upon listing, Tadawul issuers are required to consistently publish quarterly results within 30 days of the close of each quarter and they have three months to publish full-year results. Nomu issuers are required to publish 1H results within 45 days of the end of the period; they, too, have three months to release FY figures.

Healthcare group Al Hammadi sees net income up as it delivers on expansion strategy

Healthcare group Al Hammadi Holding’s net income rose 17.9% y-o-y to SAR 303.3 mn in FY 2023, according to its earnings release (pdf). Its revenues were up 4.8% y-o-y to SAR 1.2 bn. On a quarterly basis, Al Hammadi’s net income fell 10.9% y-o-y in 4Q 2023 to SAR 65.2 mn, and its top line recorded a 11.4% y-o-y decrease to SAR 303.7 mn.

Deep dive: The medical facilities operator and owner attributed the rise in net income during the year to strong revenue growth, lower sales, general, and administrative expenses, and a 65% y-o-y decline in expected credit loss provisions. Higher revenues throughout the year came on the back of growth in medical services and in-house pharmacies. Although its inpatient admissions declined 10% y-o-y in 2023, revenues “remained robust” as it introduced strategic price hikes and admitted more complex cases.

Inpatient and outpatient services accounted for 81% of revenues: Al Hammadi’s medical services — which comprises inpatient and outpatient operations at its Al Nuzha and Al Suwaidi hospitals — generated SAR 951 mn in revenues last, accounting for 81% of the healthcare operator’s consolidated revenues. Its pharma segment raked in SAR 226 mn in revenues, accounting for the remaining 19%.

Dividend: Al Hammadi will distribute SAR 56 mn in dividends for 4Q 2023 at SAR 0.35 per share, it said in a separate isclosure to Tadawul. A distribution date is set on Thursday, 4 April.

Al Hammadi delivered on its expansion strategy last year, adding 20 inpatient beds at Al Suwaidi hospital and 20 new clinics as part of its first phase of its outpatient expansion in the hospital. Some 20 new clinics are set to be added this year. It also unrolled 20 new outpatient clinics at its Al Nuzha hospital last year.

Looking ahead: The company plans to open two new hospitals in the next few years in Riyadh. A planned Olaya hospital facility is expected to be inaugurated in 2026, while Al Narjis hospital would open its doors in 2028.

A flurry of earnings

Strap in for a long list of earnings results.

AWPT-

Alkhorayef Water and Power Technologies’ net income increased 30.3% y-o-y to SAR 140 mn in 2023, and revenues doubled y-o-y to SAR 1.7 bn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul. The company attributed its top line growth to improved performance in its water, wastewater and integrated water solutions segments.

KEC-

Knowledge Economic City’s net losses doubled y-o-y to SAR 45.6 mn in 2023 on the back of rising expenses. Meanwhile, revenues increased 18% y-o-y to SAR 66.9 mn as the company closed more residential sales, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

RIYADH CEMENT-

Riyadh Cement’s net income remained basically unchanged, inching down 0.6% y-o-y to SAR 188.8 mn in 2023 as expenses rose, while revenues were up 8% y-o-y to 643.4 mn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

BAAZEEM-

Baazeem Trading’s net income dipped 0.6% y-o-y to SAR 21.7 mn in 2023, and revenues were down slightly by 2.4% y-o-y to SAR 257 mn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul. The company’s BoD decided to distribute SAR 11 mn in dividends for 2H 2023 at SAR 1.1 per share, it said in a separate disclosure.

LEEJAM-

Leejam Sports Company’s net income increased 40% y-o-y to SAR 356 mn in 2023, and revenues were up 24% y-o-y to SAR 1.3 bn, it said in an earnings release (pdf). On a quarterly basis, net income increased 23% y-o-y to SAR 129 mn in 4Q 2023, and revenues were up 18% y-o-y to SAR 398 mn. The company’s BoD decided to distribute SAR 69.7 mn in dividends for 4Q 2023 at SAR 1.3 per share, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul. Eligible shareholders can cash out starting Wednesday, 3 April.

ALSAGR INS-

Al Sagr Cooperative Ins. turned into the black with a net income of SAR 42.3 mn in 2023, and revenues were up 2.7% y-o-y to SAR 486 mn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

BAHRI-

National Shipping Company of SA’s net income increased 55% y-o-y to SAR 1.6 bn in 2023, and revenues rose 2.3% y-o-y to SAR 8.8 bn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul. The company’s BoD recommended a dividend payout of 406 mn for 2023 at SAR 0.55 per share, it said in a separate disclosure.

ALDAWAA-

AldawaaMedical Services’ net income increased 8% y-o-y to SAR 329 mn in 2023, and revenues were up 7% y-o-y to SAR 5.7 bn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

GULF GENERAL-

Gulf General Cooperative Ins. turned into the black with a net income of SAR 3.5 mn in 2023, and revenues remained unchanged at SAR 315.6 mn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

RIYAL-

Rental car company Riyal Investment and Development’s net income dipped 4.5% y-o-y to SAR 18.3 mn in 2023, and revenues were down 35.8% y-o-y to SAR 121.7 mn, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

Mawani is set to establish a new SAR 175 mn logistics hub in Jeddah

LOGISTICS-

Mawani + Medlog partner to establish logistics center at Jeddah Islamic Port: Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has inked an agreement with MSC logistics arm Medlog to establish a SAR 175 mn integrated logistics park at Jeddah Islamic Port for the handling and storage of empty containers, it said in a press release. The 100k sqm hub will also feature an integrated service site for the upkeep and inspection of full and empty containers. No timeline for the project was disclosed in the statement.

Building on the 2023 momentum: The port authority inked SAR 6 bn agreements in 2023 to establish nine logistics hubs at Jeddah Islamic Port, King AbdulAziz Port in Dammam, and King Fahd Industrial Port in Yanbu, the statement explained.

MEANWHILE- Mawani has added a new shipping service, dubbed IMS, to its King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam expanding connections to Southeast Asia and India, according to a statement. The new service will link the port to Kelang, Malaysia, Surabaya, Indonesia, Nhava Sheva, India, and Jebel Ali, UAE, offering a capacity of 1.8k standardized containers. VASI Shipping will operate the route via weekly voyages.

INVESTMENT WATCH-

The Investment Ministry (MISA) has inked 21 MoUs with the likes of Liverpool FC, China’s Goldenport, Adidas and others on the sidelines of the Formula One Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, according to a post on Linkedin. Those include:

A MoU with Liverpool International Academy to set up new sports training academies here;
A MoU with Beijing-based Goldenpor t develop motorsport circuits here;
A MoU with British car manufacturer BAC to host BAC motorsport championships.
A MoU with Adidas to scale up its sports retail outlets here.

AUTOMOTIVE-

Chery Automotive is launching two new brands in KSA — Omoda and JAECOO — by the end of 3Q 2024, Lucy Aziz, regional head of PR and communication, told Gulf Business.

WATER TREATMENT-

Alkhorayef Water and Power Technologies has landed a SAR 1 bn sewage treatment project for three plants in Manfouha under a 15-year operation and maintenance agreement with the National Water Company, it said in a filing to Tadawul. Rehabilitation works on the plants are expected to wrap up in 2027.

REAL ESTATE-

Mulkia Investment negotiates a better agreement with Al Rajhi Bank for its REIT fund: The fund manager of the REIT fund has agreed with Al Rajhi Bank to raise the fund’s credit limit to SAR 750 mn, up from SAR 600 mn, and to reduce the interest on credit by 22.2%, according to a statement to Tadawul. The higher credit limit will allow the fund to finance its capital expenditure and buy into new positions.

TOURISM-

ACES is bringing ultra-fast internet to Red Sea Global’s tourism destinations:Advanced Communications & Electronic Systems (ACES) has inked a cooperation agreement with PIF-owned Red Sea Global (RSG) that would see it implement advanced 4G and 5G networks in RSG’s luxury travel locations, they said in a joint statement. The neutral host operator and RSG have previously collaborated on implementing a zero-carbon 5G IBS network at Turtle Bay Hotel, as well as the Red Sea International Airport — making it the Kingdom’s first airport with the technology, said RSG’s Group Head of Technology, Ahmed Alsohaily.

Telcos become “techos” in strategic shift for GCC telecom providers

GCC telcos want to rebrand themselves as growth slows: GCC telcos are rebranding as “techos” (doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, does it?) in a shift towards more digital-focused revenue streams, S&P said in a recent report. With mobile penetration rates already high at 130%-210%, growth is slowing: Core revenues are expected to increase a modest 1-3% between this year and the next.

Enter digital services: GCC government’s digital agendas to boost the telecom sectors’ revenues, stimulating the e-commerce, fintech, streaming, and gaming sectors. Non-telecom sectors could contribute 18%-25% to telcos’ revenues over the next three years — and increasing M&A activity could spur growth further.

Background: Etisalat rebranded as e& in 2022, spinning off its telecom operations from its other tech businesses. Bahrain Telecommunications also launched four digital ventures during the same year, rebranding to Beyon, while Qatar’s Ooreedoo spun off its fintech arm, Ooreedoo Money as a standalone company and carved out its data center unit.

Competition and margin volatility will remain, S&P Global says: GCC telecoms benefit from regulations and government relationships, but face competition from smaller players and global tech giants. However, they can collaborate with these giants and leverage local regulations favoring domestic data storage, while acting as integrators or building data centers as local partners for hyperscalers.

THE MARKET THIS MORNING-

It looks a lot like the start of most trading day before the Fed speaks: Asian shares are mixed slipped at the opening bell and have since made up their losses, with all four major benchmarks we track (the Nikkei, Hang Seng, Shanghai Composite, and Kospi) in the green at dispatch time. US and European futures were down slightly at dispatch time this morning as traders wait to for the Federal Open Markets Committee to wrap up its two-day meeting.

TASI	12,804	+0.3% (YTD: +7%)
MSCI Tadawul 30	1,610	+0.2% (YTD: +3.8%)
NomuC	27,146	-0.2% (YTD: +10.7%)
USD : SAR (SAMA)	3.75 Sell	3.75 Buy
Interest rates	6.5% repo	5.5% reverse repo
EGX30	28,676	-1.4% (YTD: +15.2%)
ADX	9,259	-0.3% (YTD: -3.3%)
DFM	4,273	-0.1% (YTD: +5.3%)
S&P 500	5,179	+0.7% (YTD: +8.6%)
FTSE 100	7,738	+0.2% (YTD: +0.1%)
Euro Stoxx 50	5,008	+0.5% (YTD: +10.8%)
Brent crude	USD 87.4	+0.56%
Natural gas (Nymex)	USD 1.75	+0.57%
Gold	USD 2,183	-0.1%
BTC	USD 64,673	-4% (YTD: +133%)

THE CLOSING BELL: TADAWUL-

The TASI rose 0.3% yesterday on turnover of SAR 9.9 bn. The index is up 7% YTD.

In the green: Chubb (+8.7%), Fitness Time (+8%) and Sisco Saudi REIT (+8%).

In the red: Alkhorayef Water & Power (-9.3%), AlBaha (-6.7%) and AlDawaa (-6.6%).

THE CLOSING BELL: NOMU-

The NomuC fell 0.2% yesterday on turnover of SAR 25.4 mn. The index is up 10.7% YTD.

In the green: Mobi Industry (+14%), Knowledge Net (+6.9%) and Leen Alkhair (+6.6%).

In the red: Mulkia (-8.5%), Al Qemam (-6%) and United Mining (-5.2%)

CORPORATE ACTIONS-

#1- General Gulf Cooperative’s BoD has recommended a SAR 300 mn capital hike by way of rights issue, as the company pushes ahead with its expansion plan, it said in a filing to Tadawul. The move — which is still subject to regulatory approval — would also help the company boost its solvency and investment portfolio. No further details were provided.

#2- SNB Capital has distributed a SAR 34 mn dividend payout at SAR 0.25 a unit to AlAhli REIT Fund’s unitholders, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul.

#3- Saudi Arabian Refineries (Sarco) BoD has recommended withholding dividends for 2023 to allocate available funds towards new projects in a bid to bolster the company’s financial position, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul yesterday. Sarco’s general assembly is set to vote on the recommendation at the company’s next general assembly after obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.

#4- Dammam-based pipe maker Amiantit raised some SAR 70 mn in a rump offering that was 556.15% oversubscribed, it said in a disclosure to Tadawul yesterday. Trading on some 2.8 mn remaining shares from a rights issue last month ran last week. The rights issue came as the company aimed to raise its total capital by 4x or so to SAR 445.5 to help pay down debt and boost the company’s liquidity.

Crown Prince, UN SecGen Guterres discuss Gaza crisis

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed developments in the Gaza crisis during a phone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, state news agency SPA reported yesterday. They also discussed exerted efforts to achieve peace and stability. No further details were provided.

Speaking of Gaza: The Kingdom’s Ambassador to France and Monaco and its designated permanent representative to UNESCO Fahd Al Ruwaili urged the UN’s cultural agency to exert more efforts to stop Israeli attacks against Gaza, state news agency SPA reported. He highlighted the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts with regional and international partners to help end the suffering of civilians in the besieged strip during a UNESCO session in Paris.

CALENDAR

APRIL

8-11 April (Monday-Thursday): Saudi Super Cup, Abu Dhabi.

10 April (Wednesday): Eid al-Fitr

14-21 April (Sunday-Monday): IMF and World Bank spring meetings, Washington, DC

16 April (Tuesday): FEI World Cup Equestrian, Riyadh.

28-29 April (Sunday-Monday): World Economic Forum Special Meeting, Riyadh.

29 April-1 May: Future Hospitality Summit at Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh.

MAY

2-5 May (Thursday-Sunday): Townhall Expo, Riyadh.

6-9 May (Monday-Thursday): Saudi Smart Manufacturing, Riyadh.

6-9 May (Monday-Thursday): Saudi Smart Logistics, Riyadh.

13-15 May (Monday-Wednesday): Smart Future Expo, Riyadh.

13 May (Monday): Saudi Giga Projects, Riyadh.

19-21 May (Sunday-Tuesday): Saudi Energy Convention, Riyadh.

20-21 May (Monday-Tuesday): Future Projects Forum, Four Seasons Hotel, Riyadh.

21-23 May (Tuesday-Thursday): The Saudi Food Show, Riyadh.

Signposted to happen sometime in May:

Global Trade Review (GTR): KSA
Saudi Energy Convention

JUNE

4-7 June (Tuesday-Friday): Saudi Sports Show, Riyadh.

4-7 June (Tuesday-Friday): Aqarat Expo, Riyadh.

5 June (Wednesday): World Environment Day.

Signposted to happen sometime in June:

Eid Al-Adha (national holiday)

AUGUST

12-15 August (Monday-Thursday): The Saudi Food Expo, Riyadh

SEPTEMBER

11-12 September (Wednesday-Thursday): The Saudi Event Show, Riyadh.

17-19 September (Tuesday-Thursday): EV Auto Show, Riyadh.

24-26 September (Tuesday-Thursday) Saudi Infrastructure Expo, Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, Riyadh.

23 September (Monday): National Day (national holiday)

NOVEMBER

26-28 November (Tuesday-Thursday): Saudi Electricity Expo, Riyadh.

11-14 November (Monday-Thursday): Cityscape Global, Riyadh.

DECEMBER

2-13 December (Monday-Friday): Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, Riyadh.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2024:

The AFC Champions League Elite

2025

FEBRUARY

10-13 February (Monday-Thursday): Leap 2025, the Kingdom’s premier tech investment conference

Sections

About

Privacy & Support

Get EnterpriseAM daily