Saudi-European Investment Relations Enhance Global Economic Stability

The Eiffel Tower and the financial and commercial district of La Defense, west of Paris (Reuters)
The Eiffel Tower and the financial and commercial district of La Defense, west of Paris (Reuters)
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Saudi-European Investment Relations Enhance Global Economic Stability

The Eiffel Tower and the financial and commercial district of La Defense, west of Paris (Reuters)
The Eiffel Tower and the financial and commercial district of La Defense, west of Paris (Reuters)

External financial bonds, including Eurobonds, constitute an important aspect of Saudi investments, experts told Asharq Al-Awsat.
This came after the Ministry of Finance denied, on Tuesday, that the Kingdom had threatened to sell Eurobonds, according to a statement attributed to the ministry and reported by Bloomberg.
The ministry stressed that Saudi relations with the G7 and other countries were based on mutual respect, pointing to ongoing discussions over matters that promote global growth and the flexibility of the international financial system.

Shura Council member Fadl Al-Buainain told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Kingdom has close and balanced relations with its partners in Europe and the world, adding that it adopts a policy of complete neutrality in issues to which it is not a party, and is committed to non-interference in the affairs of countries in general.
Financial Fluctuations
The Shura Council member stated that the Kingdom is keen on the stability of the global economy, through its global partnerships, its membership in the G20 and its strong relations with the G7, which enjoy mutual respect.
He added that Saudi Arabia, through its reliable management of its foreign investments and its oil policy, cannot take any decision that would negatively impact its international relations or the global economy.
Al-Buainain explained that financial investments in bonds constitute an important aspect of Saudi investments abroad.
For his part, Dr. Fahd bin Juma, economic export and former member of the Shura Council, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Kingdom always seeks to achieve its economic interests by diversifying its investment portfolio locally and internationally.
Business Relations
Bin Jumaa added that Saudi Arabia also invests in European countries and has good ties with the G7, stressing that there were no risks or indicators about changes in these strong relations.
The Kingdom is also keen on its diplomatic and economic relations with all friendly countries of the world, and does not interfere in the affairs of other countries, he underlined.
Bloomberg had reported that the Saudi Ministry of Finance had hinted that the Kingdom could sell some Eurobonds and French bonds if the G7 tried to seize Russia’s foreign frozen assets.

 



Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.