RIYADH: The Saudi Exchange is proving resilient amid a global initial public offerings downturn, highlighting the strength and dynamism of its diverse issuer base.
While traditional financial centers struggle, the Kingdom continues to attract listings, underscoring a potential shift in how and where global capital is deployed.
Across the US, Europe, and much of Asia, 2025 has seen subdued IPO activity, affected by volatile macroeconomic indicators, persistent inflation, and shifting investor sentiment. Could Saudi Arabia’s divergence signal a broader reshaping of investor priorities and market leadership?
Equity markets showed early signs of recovery in the first quarter, but geopolitical tensions and tariff shocks in April disrupted momentum, prompting issuers to delay offerings and adopt a cautious stance, according to Haitham Aljabry, capital markets consulting partner at PwC Middle East.
In contrast, the Saudi Exchange is charting its own path. As of August 2025, 33 new listings have been completed across its main market, Nomu – parallel market, and sukuk and bonds market, bringing the total number of listed securities to more than 460.
