Tadawul’s growth has been bolstered by a rising influx of qualified foreign investors It is also expanding its footprint in data innovation and commodity markets RIYADH: Saudi stock exchange operator Tadawul Group is poised to accelerate the growth of its fixed-income market in 2025, with a strong focus on sustainable finance, following a record year for the group. Speaking at the 5th Capital Markets Forum in Riyadh, Tadawul chairperson Sarah Al-Suhaimi highlighted 2024 as a transformative year for the exchange, with more than 50 listings across its main and parallel Nomu markets, reflecting a surge in market activity. Tadawul’s growth has been bolstered by a rising influx of qualified foreign investors, which now number nearly 4,200 and represent 25 percent of total equity capital market trades. This influx aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader economic goals of diversifying its financial sector and attracting international capital. “A strong capital market extends beyond equities,” Al-Suhaimi said. “We are making significant strides in our diversification strategy. With over 45,000 investors, our fixed-income market is poised to gain further momentum in 2025, especially in sustainable finance.” Looking ahead, Al-Suhaimi forecasted continued momentum across multiple asset classes in 2025. “2024 was a milestone year for the group and its subsidiaries,” she said. “We saw greater interest from international investors than ever before, with nearly 4,200 QFIs, who account for 25 percent of our total ECM trades, and a more diverse range of sectors.” Tadawul is also expanding its footprint in data innovation and commodity markets. Through its acquisition of Direct FN and a stake in the Gulf Mercantile Exchange, the group aims to broaden its market offerings and enhance its competitive edge. “These strategic steps align with our diversification strategy, broadening opportunities and reinforcing our position across multiple financial segments,” Al-Suhaimi said. The CMF, as the world’s largest capital market event, continues to serve as a premier platform where Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving capital market intersects with global finance. Al-Suhaimi expressed confidence that the forum will spur new partnerships and innovations, paving the way for further collaboration and growth within the Kingdom’s financial ecosystem. “CMF is an opportunity to forge meaningful partnerships and spotlight potential venues through which we can leverage synergies for a long-lasting impact,” she said. With an eye on 2025, Tadawul is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Middle East’s capital markets.