MSX records remarkable performance in first half of 2026
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Muscat Stock Exchange saw remarkable performance in the first half of 2026, with its main index rising 28 percent.
- This growth was driven by a strong national economy, increased liquidity from local funds, and improved company fundamentals and profits.
- Analysts expect the exchange to maintain momentum, anticipating further trading volume increases and potential credit rating upgrades for Oman.
The Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) delivered a standout performance in the first half of 2026, outperforming other Gulf stock exchanges and ranking among the best globally. The main index surged by 28 percent, fueled by a robust national economy and substantial liquidity injections from local investment funds and institutions. Adel Walid, Director of Brokerage at United Securities Company, attributed this success to improved fundamentals and strong profits reported by listed companies in the first quarter. The rise in oil prices, averaging around $89 per barrel during the period, also positively impacted listed stocks.
Liquidity levels saw a significant increase, with average liquidity reaching approximately OMR58 million, a substantial jump from OMR25 million in the previous year. The number of executed transactions also grew by over 200 percent, indicating a broader market participation base that includes individual investors alongside local, foreign, and Gulf institutions. This enhanced activity reflects growing confidence in the Omani market.
Looking ahead, market analysts predict the MSX will sustain its upward trajectory. Expectations are for continued growth in trading volumes during the second half of the year, especially with new listings like Omifco, which attracted over OMR4.6 billion in subscription requests โ a record for the exchange. This success underscores the increasing trust from both domestic and international investors.
Furthermore, forecasts suggest oil prices will remain stable above $70-$75 per barrel, ensuring a strong fiscal year for Oman's budget. The Sultanate is also anticipated to receive improved credit ratings from global agencies, which should further attract foreign investment. Despite its recent gains, the MSX remains attractively valued compared to regional markets, positioning it for continued growth and improvement.
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Originally published by Times of Oman. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.