MUSCAT: Trading value on the Muscat Stock Exchange climbed sharply to RO 3.5 billion in the first quarter of this year, compared with approximately RO 434.1 million in the corresponding period last year and RO 2.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The first quarter saw stronger liquidity flows into the bourse from domestic institutional investors and individuals, supported by improving economic indicators, higher earnings among listed public shareholding companies and stronger financial disclosures. Activity was further underpinned by dividend distributions and the announcement of new projects across several firms.
Monthly trading values reflected a steady upward trajectory, beginning at RO 836.8 million in January, rising to RO 1.2947 billion in February and reaching RO 1.4264 billion in March. The number of executed transactions surged to around 335,000 during the quarter, compared with 57,000 transactions recorded in the same period of 2025.
The benchmark index posted three record highs over the quarter, crossing 6,000 points on January 5, 7,000 points on February 11 and 8,000 points on March 29. It closed the quarter at 8,168 points, representing a gain of more than 2,300 points over three months.
Foreign ownership in public shareholding companies stood at 14.2 per cent at the end of March. Non-Omani investors recorded purchases worth RO 418.7 million, accounting for 11.7 per cent of total trading value, while sales reached RO 395.2 million, or 11.1 per cent.
In terms of trading activity, Sohar International led with RO 656.3 million, followed by Bank Muscat at RO 575.8 million. OQ Exploration and Production ranked third with RO 522.5 million, ahead of OQ Base Industries at RO 472.4 million, while Omantel recorded RO 333.3 million.
The bond and sukuk segment registered trading worth RO 31.3 million, including RO 11.2 million from the sixth sovereign sukuk issuance, RO 8.1 million from the third issuance and RO 4.8 million linked to Sohar International’s unsecured subordinated perpetual bonds. Total transactions in this segment reached 749.
Brokerage activity was led by United Securities with a 19.3 per cent share of total trades, followed by Ubhar Capital at 15.6 per cent. Another market maker at Ubhar Capital accounted for 14.6 per cent, while the Liquidity Development Fund held 12.4 per cent. United Securities also featured among the top five with a 10.7 per cent share. — ONA
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