MUSCAT: His Excellency Abdullah bin Salim Al Salmi, Executive President of the Financial Services Authority (FSA), highlighted the importance of developing Oman’s capital market into a key source of financing for economic growth, beyond its traditional role in securities trading.

Speaking at the Ubhar Capital Investment Dialogue 2027, His Excellency Al Salmi said capital markets play an important role in connecting companies with investors and directing savings towards productive, long-term investments.

He emphasised that investment banks, brokerage firms and other financial intermediaries are essential to linking businesses with financing opportunities and broadening access to investment.

His Excellency also stressed the importance of developing diversified investment products to attract a wider range of investors and channel savings into long-term investments. He noted that market liquidity, transparent pricing and efficient trading mechanisms are fundamental to strengthening investor confidence and improving market performance.

He said expanding investor participation, improving financing opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and introducing a broader range of investment products would enhance the capital market’s contribution to Oman’s economic development objectives.

He also pointed out that the Muscat Stock Exchange trading exceeded RO 10.29 billion during the first 10 months of 2026, while market capitalisation reached RO 38.59 billion, highlighting the sector’s growing role in supporting economic development and attracting investment.