MUSCAT : According to unaudited statistical data released by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), the increase in investments reflects the expanding role of the insurance sector in supporting the national economy by channeling assets and savings into a range of investment vehicles that stimulate economic activity and enhance sustainable growth.
The investments are governed by the Investment of Insurance and Takaful Assets Regulations issued under FSA Resolution No. 76/2020, which require insurers to invest at least 70 per cent of their total assets within the Sultanate while setting limits for investments across bank deposits, equities, bonds and real estate to ensure financial sustainability and reduce investment risks.
The data showed that national insurance companies accounted for RO 588.8 million of the sector’s total investments, while foreign insurers contributed RO 287.5 million, underlining the industry’s role as a major institutional investor in the country.
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Both local and foreign insurers maintained a strong domestic investment focus, with national companies allocating around 80 per cent of their investments within Oman and foreign companies investing 85 per cent of their portfolios locally, reflecting growing confidence in the Sultanate’s investment environment.
Among national insurers, cash and bank deposits represented the largest investment category at RO 263.9 million, accounting for nearly 45 per cent of their total investments. This was followed by commercial bonds worth RO 87.2 million, government bonds at RO 79.4 million, and listed equities valued at RO 73.6 million, supporting liquidity in financial markets and strengthening local financing channels.
The first quarter also witnessed strong growth across several investment classes. Investments in listed shares surged by 90.6 per cent, while investment funds rose by 78.4 per cent, commercial bonds increased by 37.4 per cent, and unlisted shares grew by 32 per cent compared to the first quarter of 2025.
At the company level, the four largest insurers accounted for 44 per cent of the sector’s total investments. Gulf Insurance Group led the market with investments of approximately RO 106.8 million, followed closely by Dhofar Insurance with RO 106.4 million, Liva Insurance with RO 97.7 million, and Oman Qatar Insurance with RO 75 million.
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