MUSCAT: The introduction of the Promising Companies Market Regulations marks a significant step in the Financial Services Authority’s (FSA) incentive programme to develop the capital market, in line with Oman Vision 2040’s goals for economic diversification and a strong investment climate, said Ahmed bin Ali al Maamari, FSA Deputy CEO.
The new rules offer a flexible regulatory framework enabling private, family-owned, emerging, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access alternative financing in a transparent environment. This opens diverse funding options for corporate growth and expansion.
The incentive programme has three main pillars, including establishing the Promising Companies Market as a sub-market on the Muscat Stock Exchange. Combined with the new regulations, it offers easier access to finance and helps companies advance towards greater institutional maturity and sustainable growth.
The regulations outline clear listing requirements, including annual growth targets, minimum shareholder numbers, and fixed fees, reducing entry barriers and improving corporate transformation. Al Maamari urged eligible private firms to explore these opportunities.
Haitham bin Salem al Salmi, CEO of the Muscat Stock Exchange, said the new market is a structural milestone, providing a specialised financing channel for SMEs, family businesses, and private firms. It follows phased regulatory controls, enabling a smooth transition to the main market.
He added that the exchange will provide an integrated trading environment with advanced infrastructure, flexible disclosure models, and governance standards tailored to growth-stage companies, boosting investor confidence and market liquidity. The initiative supports the exchange’s strategy to broaden the investor base, diversify investment tools, and raise institutional maturity, strengthening Oman’s competitiveness and private sector development. — ONA
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