RIYADH – Investors from the Peopel’s Republic of China are reportedly increasing their holdings in Saudi Arabian equities, driven by expectations that a period of intense price competition within the Kingdom’s oil sector is nearing its conclusion.

The surge in investment activity comes following a recent period of reduced oil prices instigated by saudi Aramco, the state-owned petroleum and natural gas company, and other producers. This strategy, intended to regain market share and pressure competing suppliers, resulted in a significant decline in profitability for some industry participants.

Analysts suggest that Chinese investors view the current market conditions as a favorable entry point. They anticipate that as oil prices stabilize or increase, the value of Saudi Arabian energy stocks will rise accordingly. Saudi Aramco, headquartered in Dhahran, is the world’s largest proven oil reserves holder, with approximately 256.9 billion barrels as of 2023. The Tadawul All Share Index (TASI), the primary benchmark for the Saudi stock market, has experienced volatility in recent months, mirroring fluctuations in global oil prices.

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan,spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil revenue and attract foreign investment in sectors such as tourism,technology,and manufacturing. This initiative has created a more welcoming habitat for international capital, including that originating from China.

China is currently Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $87.3 billion in 2022, according to data from the General Authority for Statistics in Saudi Arabia. The increasing investment in Saudi equities represents a further deepening of economic ties between the two nations. The Saudi Public investment Fund (PIF) also has significant investments in Chinese companies, indicating a reciprocal flow of capital.

Experts indicate that the long-term outlook for Saudi Arabian oil stocks remains positive, contingent upon global economic growth and the continued demand for energy. However, geopolitical factors and the transition towards renewable energy sources pose potential risks to the industry’s future performance.

Dollar Weakens Against Egyptian Pound Amidst Key Trading

Currency Sees Slight Dip in Major Banks

Cairo – The U.S. dollar’s value against the Egyptian pound experienced a noticeable decrease in several banks today. Trading mid-session saw the dollar fall below the 49 EGP mark, continuing a downward trend observed since Wednesday, just before the anniversary of the July 23 revolution.

Bank-Specific Declines

Major financial institutions recorded the dollar’s depreciation. The National Bank of Egypt and Banque Misr both reported a 19 piasters drop for both purchase and sale, setting rates at 48.85 EGP for buying and 48.95 EGP for selling. The Commercial International Bank and Al Baraka Bank saw slightly larger declines of 21 piasters, with rates at 48.83 EGP for purchase and 48.93 EGP for sale.

The Suez Canal Bank also reported a 19 piasters decrease, aligning with the National Bank of Egypt and Banque Misr’s figures for dollar transactions.

Economic Context and Outlook

This fluctuation occurs as Egypt continues its economic reform program. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) data from May 2024, Egypt’s foreign exchange reserves stood at approximately $40.3 billion, reflecting a stable, albeit fluctuating, economic environment. Officials have indicated ongoing efforts to manage currency stability through various policy measures.

Further economic insights and news regarding Egyptian banks can be followed on various platforms, including their official Telegram and YouTube channels. Information regarding investment in the Egyptian Stock Exchange is also available.

A U.S. Representative has referred Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to teh Justice Department, a move occurring amidst pressure from former President Donald trump concerning interest rate policies.

The referral, initiated by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, targets Powell for alleged “crimes and misdemeanors.” While the specific details of the allegations are not fully elaborated in the initial report, the action is directly linked to TrumpS ongoing public criticism of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions. Trump has repeatedly advocated for lower interest rates, arguing that they would stimulate the U.S. economy and benefit his political agenda.

This growth highlights the contentious relationship between the executive branch, particularly under Trump’s influence, and the self-reliant Federal reserve. The Fed’s mandate includes maintaining price stability and maximizing employment, objectives that can sometimes lead to interest rate adjustments that are unpopular with political figures seeking immediate economic growth.

The referral to the justice Department, if pursued, would place Powell under scrutiny for his actions as head of the central bank. However, the practical implications and likelihood of any formal charges or investigations stemming from this referral remain uncertain. The Federal Reserve operates with a degree of autonomy designed to shield monetary policy decisions from short-term political pressures.