Closing Bell: Banque Saudi Fransi raises $810m in sukuk issuance to strengthen capital base

Closing Bell: Banque Saudi Fransi raises $810m in sukuk issuance to strengthen capital base
A view of the board at the Stock Exchange Market (Tadawul) bourse in Riyadh. Fille/AFP
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Updated 28 August 2024
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Closing Bell: Banque Saudi Fransi raises $810m in sukuk issuance to strengthen capital base

Closing Bell: Banque Saudi Fransi raises $810m in sukuk issuance to strengthen capital base
  • Tadawul All Share Index closed down 65.05 points to 12,117.15
  • Day saw a total trading turnover of SR6.85 billion, with 90 stocks advancing and 131 retreating

RIYADH: Banque Saudi Fransi completed the issuance of additional tier-one sukuk, raising SR3 billion ($810 million) under its SR8 billion capital program. 

The privately placed sukuk, denominated in Saudi Riyals, offers a 6 percent return per annum. 

According to a statement on the Saudi Stock Exchange, or Tadawul, each sukuk has a nominal value of SR1 million and is perpetual, with provisions for early redemption under specific conditions, such as a capital event or tax event. 

This issuance marks a strategic move to bolster the bank’s capital base and support long-term growth objectives, following initial disclosures made on Tadawul in August. 

Meanwhile, the Saudi Stock Exchange’s Tadawul All Share Index closed down 65.05 points, or 0.53 percent, at 12,117.15. The day saw a total trading turnover of SR6.85 billion, with 90 stocks advancing and 131 retreating. 

Red Sea International Co. emerged as the top performer, with shares rising 9.9 percent to SR45.50. Saudi Arabian Amiantit Co. and Saudi Real Estate Co. also saw gains, with share prices up 6.7 percent and 5.59 percent, respectively. 

In contrast, Jabal Omar Development Co. was the worst performer, with a 3.54 percent drop to SR25.9. 

On the announcement front, United Mining Industries Co. released its interim financial results for the first half of 2024. 

UMI reported a 5.5 percent increase in sales for the six months ending June 2024 compared to the same period last year. 

This growth is primarily attributed to a shift in the company’s sales mix and the successful implementation of new marketing strategies to enhance market penetration and customer engagement. 

However, the company’s net profit for the first half of the year declined by 36 percent compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. 

The decrease is largely due to provisions set aside in response to a legal claim involving the General Authority of Competition. 


BSF, Diriyah Co. ink $1.6bn financing deal to develop Wadi Safar project

BSF, Diriyah Co. ink $1.6bn financing deal to develop Wadi Safar project
Updated 46 sec ago
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BSF, Diriyah Co. ink $1.6bn financing deal to develop Wadi Safar project

BSF, Diriyah Co. ink $1.6bn financing deal to develop Wadi Safar project

JEDDAH: Banque Saudi Fransi has signed a financing deal worth SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) with Diriyah Co. to develop the Wadi Safar project, highlighting the private sector’s role in driving economic growth.

The development is a key cultural and tourism destination within the larger Diriyah area, which aims to attract over 50 million visitors by 2030 while supporting major initiatives, according to the bank, which rebranded as BSF in June after 48 years in the market.

During the signing ceremony, Bader Al-Salloom, CEO of BSF, and Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Co., emphasized the importance of this partnership in achieving sustainable development and enhancing Diriyah’s position as a prominent cultural and historical hub.

The agreement between the two parties aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of transforming the Kingdom into a global tourist destination. The Diriyah Gate Development Authority has set a precedent by blending respect for heritage with innovative, sustainable ventures, such as Al-Bujairi Terrace, which has become a major tourist attraction since its opening in 2022.

The deal is also part of BSF’s initiatives to back significant development projects that boost infrastructure, promote tourism, and drive economic growth in Saudi Arabia, the bank said in a statement.

The Wadi Safar project, introduced in December 2023 by the DGDA, is one of the three main initiatives under the Diriyah Co’s development plan.

It covers an area of approximately 62 sq. km and is set to become an upscale residential community, including high-end hospitality facilities, recreational and sports venues, and advanced commercial and retail spaces.

The project will offer premium real estate units designed to cater to the needs of both investors and visitors. Moreover, Wadi Safar’s gated community will serve as an oasis within Riyadh, featuring three major resorts: Six Senses, Aman, and Oberoi.

It is also the location for the ongoing development of the Greg Norman-designed championship signature golf course and Royal Diriyah Golf Club.

The Diriyah development project aims to generate around 178,000 job opportunities and is expected to contribute SR18.6 billion to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product upon completion.


UAE joins dividend surge as global payouts hit record $1.75tn in 2024

UAE joins dividend surge as global payouts hit record $1.75tn in 2024
Updated 24 min 33 sec ago
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UAE joins dividend surge as global payouts hit record $1.75tn in 2024

UAE joins dividend surge as global payouts hit record $1.75tn in 2024

RIYADH: The UAE was among 17 countries setting new dividend records in 2024 as global payouts surged to a record $1.75 trillion, marking a 6.6 percent increase from the previous year, a new report showed. 

According to research by trading platform eToro, UAE-listed companies maintained steady dividend distributions, driven by strong performances in the banking, energy, and real estate sectors.  

This comes as Saudi-listed companies also made significant dividend moves in 2024, with energy firm Aramco declaring a total payout of $85.4 billion despite a drop in net profit, while Al Rajhi Bank’s total shareholder payments reached SR10.84 billion ($2.89 billion), combining a first-half cash dividend of SR5 billion and a second-half payout of SR5.84 billion. 

“The financial sector has been a standout performer, with UAE banks benefiting from higher interest rates and economic expansion. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, for instance, raised its dividend payout to 50 percent of its annual profit, reflecting the sector’s robust earnings growth,” said Josh Gilbert, a market analyst at eToro. 

Energy companies also played a significant role, with ADNOC Gas announcing a $3.41 billion dividend, supported by high oil prices and a commitment to 5 percent annual dividend growth. 

In the real estate sector, Emaar Properties doubled its dividend to 8.8 billion dirhams ($2.4 billion), backed by record property sales and strong market demand.  

For income-focused investors, dividends remain a core element of long-term strategies, providing consistent cash flow and potential for compounding returns.  

“While 2024 saw record dividend distributions, certain increases, such as Emaar’s 100 percent payout of its share capital, may not be repeated annually. These sectors are cyclical, and dividends could fluctuate with market conditions,” Gilbert added. 

Despite concerns about sustainability, UAE companies’ focus on shareholder returns highlights the market’s resilience. The country’s dividend growth outlook remains positive, supported by strong corporate earnings, favorable government policies, and continued investor interest. 

Whether targeting high yields or steady income, the UAE remains an attractive market for global investors. 


Lebanon finalizes 22 deals with Saudi Arabia ahead of high-level visit 

Lebanon finalizes 22 deals with Saudi Arabia ahead of high-level visit 
Updated 56 min 4 sec ago
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Lebanon finalizes 22 deals with Saudi Arabia ahead of high-level visit 

Lebanon finalizes 22 deals with Saudi Arabia ahead of high-level visit 

RIYADH: Lebanon has finalized 22 cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for a high-level visit next month to strengthen economic ties. 

The delegation could be led by President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, or both, according to Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri in an interview with Asharq. 

This comes as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted President Aoun at the Royal Court in Al-Yamamah Palace on March 3 — Aoun’s first foreign visit since taking office — where they discussed Lebanon’s ongoing crisis and regional developments. 

The agreements, covering sectors from agriculture to intellectual property, are seen as crucial to securing broader international aid for Lebanon’s struggling economy. 

“This is a legitimate approach, and we must earn the trust of Arab nations and the international community,” Mitri said, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia’s support is vital for unlocking further international aid. He confirmed that the 22 agreements are fully drafted and ready for signing. 

On his arrival, Aoun had expressed hope that his talks with the crown prince would pave the way for a follow-up visit to sign agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations. 

The deals cover a wide range of sectors, including intellectual property, consumer protection, and environmental management, as well as agriculture and water resources, Rabih El-Amine, chairman of the Lebanese Executives Council, told Arab News earlier this month. 

El-Amine also pointed to agreements involving the Ministry of Information, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, and Banque du Liban. 

Mitri further revealed that Lebanon is working on an independent fund — separate from government institutions handling refugee affairs — in partnership with international organizations to oversee post-war reconstruction efforts. This move aims to boost credibility with donors, especially in the wake of the recent Hezbollah-Israeli conflict. 

A World Bank report commissioned by the Lebanese government estimates the country needs roughly $11 billion for recovery and reconstruction. The report assessed damage across 10 key sectors, projecting infrastructure repairs at $3 billion to $5 billion in public sector funding, while housing, trade, industry, and tourism would require $6 billion to $8 billion in private investments. 

Mitri also noted that France has expressed willingness to host a conference to support Lebanon’s recovery. French officials have proposed preparatory meetings or merging them into a single event, though no date has been set. The conference would prioritize humanitarian aid and reconstruction, while a separate investment-focused event aims to attract international figures. 


Qatar to supply gas to Syria with US nod: sources

Qatar to supply gas to Syria with US nod: sources
Updated 13 March 2025
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Qatar to supply gas to Syria with US nod: sources

Qatar to supply gas to Syria with US nod: sources

BEIRUT: Qatar is set to begin supplying Syria with gas via Jordan to boost the nation’s meager power supply, three people familiar with the matter said, in a move that a US official said had Washington’s approval.


PIF-backed Scopely acquires Pokemon GO maker for $3.5bn

PIF-backed Scopely acquires Pokemon GO maker for $3.5bn
Updated 13 March 2025
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PIF-backed Scopely acquires Pokemon GO maker for $3.5bn

PIF-backed Scopely acquires Pokemon GO maker for $3.5bn

RIYADH: Scopely, a US-based firm backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has signed a deal worth $3.5 billion to acquire the video game division of Niantic Labs.

In a press statement, Scopely said that the team employed to make games such as Pokemon GO, Monster Hunter Now and Pikmin Bloom are included in the acquisition. 

This takeover aligns with the Kingdom’s ambitions to establish itself as a global gaming destination, with a national strategy aiming to ensure that the sector will contribute $13 billion to gross domestic product by 2030. 

In April 2023, Savvy Games Group, wholly owned by PIF, acquired Scopely for $4.9 billion.

“Few games in the world have delivered the scale and longevity of ‘Pokemon GO,’ which reached over 100 million players just last year. The experience also stands apart for its unique ability to foster in-person connections, with Pokemon GO live events attracting millions of attendees,” said Tim O’Brien, chief revenue officer and board member of Scopely. 

Despite being launched nearly a decade ago, Pokemon GO is still one of the most popular games in the world, with over 20 million weekly active players. 

O’Brien added: “After spending time with the Niantic team, it quickly became clear that this organization shares our inclination to create industry-leading outcomes and exceptional player experiences. We look forward to a bright future ahead.” 

The games business of Niantic Labs generated over $1 billion in revenue in 2024, according to the statement. 

In a separate release, the US-based firm said it would distribute an extra $350 million to its equity holders under the deal, yielding a total value of approximately $3.85 billion for the company’s shareholders. 

Niantic added that it will also spin off its geospatial AI business into a new firm named Niantic Spatial, under the leadership of its founder and CEO, John Hanke.

The company will be funded with $250 million of capital, including $200 million from Niantic’s balance sheet and a $50 million investment from Scopely. 

“I’m confident our games will thrive with Scopely. I’ve often talked about building ‘forever games,’ and I believe they will continue to be just that,” Hanke wrote on his LinkedIn page. 

Since the launch of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting the gaming industry, with PIF already holding stakes in major companies such as Nintendo, Electronic Arts, and Take-Two Interactive.

In 2024, the Kingdom also hosted the eSports World Cup, which carried a prize pool of over $60 million.