Oman regulates investment banking activities

BUSINESS REPORTER
MUSCAT, AUGUST 17
In a new regulatory advancement aimed at further developing specialised capital market services, enhancing market efficiency and expanding its capacity to provide diverse financing and investment channels, the licensing of investment banking activities in the Sultanate of Oman forms part of an integrated licensing and regulatory framework that supports the further development of the financial ecosystem.
The Executive Regulation of the Securities Law, issued pursuant to Financial Services Authority (FSA) Decision No (E/11/2026), reinforces this framework and provides the necessary enabling environment, contributing to the optimal allocation of financial resources and savings and enhancing the circulation of funds within Oman’s economy.
Entities licensed to conduct investment banking activities provide specialised financial services in the capital market, including assisting companies and other entities in raising capital and providing investment services and advisory services. This is in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040 towards advancing the development of the financial sector, expanding financing and investment options; and enhancing the Sultanate of Oman’s ability to attract capital.
During the period from 2021 to 2025, financing provided through the capital market sector exceeded RO 7 billion, which sheds light on the role of the capital market as one of the financing channels in the Sultanate of Oman and its growing contribution to providing diverse financing options for companies and economic projects.
Operating within a clear regulatory framework, entities conducting investment banking activities will serve as a link between companies seeking financing and local and international investors. This will be achieved through developing issuance arrangement services and product structuring, broadening the investor base, enhancing institutional investor participation; and connecting companies and projects seeking financing with local and international sources of capital.
The presence of entities specialising in investment services can also contribute to improving the efficiency of issuance processes, developing financial products and increasing the range of options available to companies and investors.
Accordingly, the Regulation defines the scope of investment banking activities to comprise five activities conducted collectively: investment management, product structuring, securities portfolio management, research and advisory services related to investment in listed securities and issue management. It also permits entities licensed to conduct investment banking activities to act as underwriters for issuances approved by the FSA.
The issuance of the Executive Regulation of the Securities Law coincides with the continued improvement in the Sultanate of Oman’s credit standing. In March 2026, S&P Global Ratings affirmed Oman’s sovereign credit rating at BBB- with a stable outlook, placing the Sultanate of Oman within investment grade.
The continued advancement of the regulatory and institutional environment of the capital market, alongside greater diversification of financing and investment instruments, supports an enhanced investment environment in Oman and strengthens the market’s ability to attract local and international capital, contributing to a more effective financial market that supports inclusive economic growth.