Saudi Index Record a 158-Point Increase

Investors talk as they monitor a screen displaying stock information at the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Reuters)
Investors talk as they monitor a screen displaying stock information at the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Reuters)
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Saudi Index Record a 158-Point Increase

Investors talk as they monitor a screen displaying stock information at the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Reuters)
Investors talk as they monitor a screen displaying stock information at the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Reuters)

The Saudi index recorded an increase of 158-point last week, a 2.24 percent, driven by the positive atmosphere and general optimism after authorities resumed economic activities in the Kingdom and eased measures imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Over the past two days, the Saudi stock succeeded in reducing the severity of inflation of some indices, as the market recorded strong gains during eight consecutive trading sessions.

This indicates that it is possible for the operations to gain profit which will, in turn, drive the index upwards targeting levels beyond last Sunday's record.

The Saudi index closed this week’s tradings on levels above 7200 points, supported by strong gains achieved on Sunday and Monday.

Saudi stocks will start Sunday the week’s trading amid expectations that the index will maintain a level above 7129 points.

Meanwhile, the period for the listed companies to announce their financial results ends on June 22, as the performance of listed companies varied. About 90 companies are expected to announce their financial results soon, which will affect the general performance of the market index.

Until now, 108 companies have announced their financial results for Q1 of 2020, which saw an improvement in the financial performance of 57 companies.

Meanwhile, oil prices did not affect the Saudi market during the past few days. Brent crude recorded levels of $40 a barrel for the first time in three months, however, the Saudi index fell by about 70 to 80 points.

Saudi stock continued its positive performance despite the oil price crisis, which will soon end. However, the effect of OPEC and OPEC+ meetings remains a stimulus that will benefit the market especially with the agreement to extend oil production cuts.

OPEC, Russia, and allies agreed on Saturday to extend oil production cuts until the end of July, prolonging a deal that has helped crude prices double in the past two months by withdrawing almost 10 percent of global supplies from the market.



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.