MUSCAT : Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) has issued Administrative Decision No. 64 of 2026 regarding the transfer of public joint stock companies between market segments, marking a significant step in the ongoing development of Oman’s capital market. The move reflects the market’s accelerating progress, supported by improved corporate financial performance and strengthened regulatory and operational frameworks.

According to the decision, 19 companies have been transferred from the Parallel Market to the Regular Market, effective 7 May 2026, after meeting the approved listing criteria. This development represents a notable advancement in market structuring and confirms the readiness of these companies to operate under the higher requirements of the Regular Market, in line with Article (39) of the Listing Rules under the Executive Regulations of the Capital Market Law.

The transfer reflects a clear improvement in the financial and operational performance of the companies concerned. Key indicators include stronger shareholders’ equity positions, improved average return on investment, as well as higher share turnover and trading activity. These factors underscore the growing efficiency of these companies and their ability to deliver sustainable returns while attracting increased interest from investors.

The list of transferred companies includes prominent entities across key sectors such as energy, financial services, industry, and logistics. Among them are OQ Exploration and Production, OQ Base Industries, Asyad Shipping, Bank Dhofar, Sembcorp Salalah, Phoenix Power, and Musandam Power, among others that have demonstrated compliance with the Regular Market requirements.

In contrast, one company has been transferred from the Regular Market to the Parallel Market due to non-compliance with the average return on investment criterion, reaffirming MSX’s commitment to maintaining clear and transparent listing standards that ensure the quality and sustainability of listed companies. Additionally, other companies have been moved from the Under Monitoring Market to the Parallel Market after meeting relevant regulatory requirements.

This development comes as part of MSX’s broader efforts to enhance market liquidity and efficiency through continuous updates to regulations, rules, and trading mechanisms in line with international best practices. It also reflects MSX’s active approach to strengthening listing pipelines and encouraging companies to improve their financial and operational performance.

The decision highlights a clear strategic direction toward building a deeper, more resilient, and more attractive market. Expanding the number of companies in the Regular Market contributes to broadening the pool of listed investment opportunities improving price discovery, and reinforcing investor confidence both locally and internationally.

Through this initiative, MSX reaffirms its commitment to advancing Oman’s capital market and strengthening its role as a key driver of economic growth, aligned with national sustainability objectives and economic diversification goals.

The transfer of this number of companies to the Regular Market stands as a strong indicator of the success of the Exchange’s ongoing reforms, particularly in enhancing the investment environment and improving the overall quality and performance of listed companies—supporting the development of a more integrated and sustainable capital market.