Author

Reflecting the escalating geopolitical volatilities, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) Tuesday plunged more than 220 points and its key index settled below 9,500 levels and.text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}}**media[93591]**capitalisation eroded QR11bn.An across the board selling, particularly in the insurance, real estate and industrials counters, led the 20-stock Qatar Index knock off 2.27% to 9,499.43 points."On the negative side, only below the strong support line at 9,585 points could shift the tone to a deeper bearish move and lead to 9,000 points," a Kamco Invest technical analysis note had said.The foreign institutions were increasingly net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 11.06%, ahead of the US economic data.The domestic institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded 1.94% to QR562.3bn with large and midcap segments losing the most.About 88% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market, whose index however regained from an intraday low of 9,439 points.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices in the main bourse, which saw as many as 9,521 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.05mn trade across eight deals.The Gulf individual investors’ marginally increased net selling was visible in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.However, the local retail investors turned bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index tanked 2.27%, All Share Index by 2.06% and Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 2.76% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The insurance sector index plummeted 3.44%, realty (2.57%), industrials (2.52%), telecom (2.14%), consumer goods and services (1.88%), banks and financial services (1.69%) and transport (1.63%).Major losers in the main market included Qatar Islamic Bank, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qatar Insurance, Industries Qatar, Ooredoo, Commercial Bank, Qatari German Medical Devices, Gulf International Services, Baladna, Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Qamco, Ezdan, Mazaya Qatar, Gulf Warehousing and Mannai Corporation. In the venture market, Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Lesha Bank, Doha Insurance and Zad holding were the three gainers in the main bourse.The foreign institutions’ net selling increased noticeably to QR20.98mn compared to QR12.29mn on October 23.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking grew marginally to QR1.35mn against QR1.34mn the previous day.The domestic institutions’ net buying weakened considerably to QR3.74mn compared to QR11.29mn on Monday.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened perceptibly to QR5.08mn against QR5.27mn on October 23.However, the local retail investors were net buyers to the tune of QR8.51mn compared with net sellers of QR2.27mn the previous day.The Arab individuals’ net buying strengthened markedly to QR4.68mn against QR0.63mn on Monday.The foreign individuals turned net buyers to the extent of QR0.34mn compared with net sellers of QR1.24mn on October 23.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net profit takers to the tune of QR0.05mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market shot up 21% to 181.88mn shares, value by 19% to QR444.94mn and deals by 12% to 17,814.The venture market saw a 73% surge in trade volumes to 0.83mn equities, 70% in value to QR1.07mn and 38% in transactions to 73.

The Qatar Stock Exchange Monday settled marginally higher by two points despite six of the seven sectors experiencing moderate buying interests..text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}}**media[93081]**The Gulf institutions were seen net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.02% to 9,719.99 points.The Arab individual investors turned bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main market, whose year-to-date losses stood at 9.11%.The domestic institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR0.99bn or 0.17% to QR573.45bn with small cap segments gaining the most.More than 55% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main market, whose index however touched an intraday high of 9,783 points.The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices in the main bourse, which saw as many as 0.01mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.06mn trade across seven deals.The foreign institutions turned net profit takers in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The local retail investors were also net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index was up 0.02% and the All Share Index by 0.15%, while the Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) declined 0.11% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The telecoms sector index rose 0.63%, real estate (0.48%), transport (0.27%), industrials (0.15%), banks and financial services (0.12%) and insurance (0.05%); while consumer goods and services declined 0.14%.Major gainers in the main market included QLM, Beema, Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Dlala, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Oman Investment, Meeza, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and United Development Company.Nevertheless, Doha Insurance, Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, Inma Holding, Qatari German Medical Devices, Ezdan, Dukhan Bank, Widam Food and Qatar Electricity were among the losers in the main bourse.In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.The Gulf institutions were net buyers to the tune of QR5.27mn compared with net profit takers of QR21.89mn on October 22.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the extent of QR0.63mn against net sellers of QR5.03mn the previous day.However, the foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR12.29mn compared with net buyers of QR1.06mn on Sunday.The local retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR2.27mn against net buyers of QR14.16mn on October 22.The Gulf individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.34mn compared with net buyers of QR0.37mn the previous day.The foreign individuals’ net profit booking increased perceptibly to QR1.24mn against QR0.71mn on Sunday.The Arab institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR0.05mn compared with no major net exposure on October 22.The domestic institutions’ net buying weakened marginally to QR11.29mn against QR11.82mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market tanked 27% to 150.84mn shares, value by 24% to QR373.56mn and deals by about 1% to 15,856.The venture market saw a 70% contraction in trade volumes to 0.48mn equities, 75% in value to QR0.63mn and 75% in transactions to 53.

Qatar’s retail inflation is now below 2%, its lowest level since April 2021 as the price pressures in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) continue to moderate, according to Oxford Economics.Highlighting that the (Mena) regional price pressures continue to moderate; its report said September CPI (consumer price index) data for Qatar showed inflation slowed to 1.8%, marking the lowest reading since April 2021."The housing and utilities category made a negative contribution for the first time since early 2022," the report said, forecasting Qatar’s inflation to be 2.6% this year and 2.3% in 2024 compared to as high as 5% in 2022.Inflation also slid below 2% in Saudi Arabia, though higher oil prices contributed to inflation rising to 3.8% in Dubai, it said, adding in Kuwait, inflation remained sticky at 3.7%.In 2023, the average inflation in the Gulf Cooperation Council is forecasted to be 2.6% with Bahrain at 0.2%, Kuwait at 3.4%, Oman at 1%, Saudi Arabia at 2.5% and the UAE at 2.9%; whereas the world inflation is expected to average higher at 6%.In 2024, the average inflation in the Gulf region is expected to be 2.5% with Bahrain at 1.8%, Kuwait at 2.6%, Oman at 1.7%, Saudi Arabia at 2.7% and the UAE at 2.3%; while the world average was higher at 4.2%.Oxford Economics said the GCC gross domestic product is slated to grow by 1.2% and 3.8% this year and in 2024 against 7.6% in 2022 with Bahrain at 1.7% and 1.9% (4.9%), Kuwait 1.6% and 2.1% (7%), Oman 2.5% and 2.3% (4.3%), Qatar 1.5% and 2.5% (4.4%), Saudi Arabia 0.4% and 4.3% (8.7%) and the UAE 2.2% and 4.4% (7.9%).In the case of Mena region, the GDP growth is expected to average 1.8% and 3.1% in 2023 and 2024 respectively compared to 5.4% in 2022; and the world average is slated to be 2.5% and 1.9% (3.1%), the report said.The Gulf region is expected to show a fiscal surplus of 1.7% of GDP in 2023 with Qatar's level at 6.8% and the UAE at 5%; whereas Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Oman are expected to witness deficit of 1.6%, 1.4%, 1% and 0.3% respectively.In 2024, the regional fiscal situation is slated to improve with the GCC surplus expected to be 2.9% with Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia to show 8.5%, 5.4% and 0.5% respectively; while in the case of Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, they are slated to see deficit of 2.4%, 1.6% and 0.2%.

The increasing geopolitical volatilities had its repercussions in the regional markets, including the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), whose key index plummeted 318 points and capitalisation eroded QR19bn this week.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net sellers as the 20-stock Qatar Index plunged 3.15% this week which saw Qatar Islamic Bank report net profit of QR3.06bn in the first nine months (9M) of this year.An across the board selling – particularly in the transport, real estate and telecom counters – weakened the sentiments in the main market this week which saw Commercial Bank report 9M net profit at QR2.36bn.The local retail investors turned net profit takers this week which saw Nakilat register net profit of QR1.19bn in January-September 2023.About 92% of the traded constituents in the main bourse were in the red this week which saw Milaha’s 9M net profit at QR870mn."The index remains within the negative territory as it closes below all moving averages on the weekly chart. The first improvement sign would happen once the bulls manage to overcome 10,430 points, also found here the upper end level of the one-year descending trend line, which will then increase the chances of targeting 11,215 point," a Kamco Invest technical analysis note had said.On the negative side, only below the strong support line at 9,585 points could shift the tone to a deeper bearish move and lead to 9,000 points, it said, adding medium-term and long-term investors can re-enter the market at levels higher than 11,150 points and 11,270 points, respectively.The Arab individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse this week, which saw Ahlibank Qatar’s 9M net profit at QR615mn.The Arab institutions were seen increasingly into net profit booking in the main bourse this week which saw Lesha Bank register net profit of QR66.8mn in January-September 2023.The Islamic index declined slower than the other indices in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.04mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.08mn trade across 14 deals.The Gulf individuals continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.08mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.75mn change hands across 39 transactions.Market capitalisation eroded QR18.8bn or 3.15% to QR578.54bn on the back of large and midcap segments this week which saw the industrials and banks together constitute about 59% of the total trade volume in the main bourse.The Total Return Index tanked 3.15%, the All Share Index by 3.08% and the All Islamic Index by 2.95% this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The transport sector index plummeted 6.56%, realty (5.06%), telecom (3.67%), banks and financial services (3.35%), consumer goods and services (2.16%), industrials (1.49%) and insurance (1.21%) this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Major shakers in the main market included Alijarah Holding, Qatari Investors Group, Qatari German Medical Devices, Mazaya Qatar, Ezdan, Commercial Bank, QNB, QIB, Doha Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Ooredoo, Nakilat, Qamco, QLM, Milaha, Baladna and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value this week Al Khaleej enter into pact with the US-based Cigna Healthcare for providing health insurance in Qatar.Nevertheless, Zad Holding, Meeza and Qatar Islamic Insurance were the gainers in the main bourse this week which saw an Ernst and Young report that said high prices of liquefied natural gas led Qatar's banking sector register a 22% growth in net earnings to QR2.8bn in 2022.The Gulf institutions’ net selling increased substantially to QR43.39mn compared to QR17.23mn the week ended October 12.The local retail investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR23.06mn against net buyers of QR16.27mn a week ago.The Arab individual investors’ net profit booking grew substantially to QR21.58mn compared to QR0.36mn the previous week.The Arab institutions turned net selling rose marginally to QR0.13mn against QR0.09mn the week ended October 12.However, the foreign funds’ net buying strengthened considerably to QR59.92mn against QR40.92mn a week ago.The domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR37.35mn compared with net sellers of QR14.15mn the previous week.The Gulf individuals’ net selling decreased drastically to QR5.343mn against QR21.04mn the week ended October 12.The foreign individuals’ net profit booking shrank markedly to QR3.78mn compared to QR4.33mn a week ago.The main market witnessed 21% shrinkage in trade volumes to 716.63mn shares, 13% in value to QR2.13bn and 2% in deals to 84,756 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes more than doubled to 8.61mn equities and value more than doubled to QR12.4mn on more than doubled transactions to 864.

The Qatar Stock Exchange on Thursday plummeted more than 153 points to drive the key index below 9,900 levels, and its capitalisation eroded QR9bn amid increasing geopolitical concerns in the region.The transport, real estate and telecom counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 1.54% to 9,801.75 points.The foreign institutions were seen net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened further to 8.23%.The local retail investors were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR8.57bn or 1.46% to QR578.54bn with large and small cap segments losing the most.About 78% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market, whose index however touched an intraday high of 9,944 points.On the negative side, only below the strong support line at 9,585 points could shift the tone to a deeper bearish move and lead to 9,000 points, a Kamco Invest analysis note had said, adding medium-term and long-term investors can re-enter the market at levels higher than 11,150 points and 11,270 points, respectively.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the main barometer in the main bourse, which saw as many as 0.07mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.54mn trade across 28 deals.The Gulf individuals turned net profit takers in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The foreign retail investors continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index shed 1.54%, the All Share Index by 1.4% and the Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 1.49% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The transport sector index plummeted 3.39%, realty (2.56%), telecom (.211%), banks and financial services (1.31%), industrials (1.3%) and consumer goods and services (0.37%), while insurance gained 0.64%.Major losers in the main bourse included Doha Insurance, United Development Company, Nakilat, Qatari Investors Group, Qatari German Medical Devices, Commercial Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Dukhan bank, Baladna, Qatari Investors Group, Gulf International Services, Estithmar Holding, Qamco, Ezdan, Ooredoo, Milaha and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, Mahhar Holding saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar Insurance, Meeza, Widam Food, Qatar Islamic Bank and Al Meera were among the gainers in the main market.In the junior bourse, Al Faleh Educational Holding saw its shares appreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR18.62mn compared with net buyers of QR13.96mn on October 18.The local retail investors’ net profit booking increased substantially to QR14.05mn against QR0.97mn the previous day.The Gulf individuals turned net sellers to the extent of QR3.08mn compared with net buyers of QR0.05mn on Wednesday.However, the Gulf institutions were net buyers to the tune of QR19.79mn against net profit takers of QR9.97mn on October 18.The domestic institutions’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR18.97mn compared to QR14.21mn the previous day.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the extent of QR0.11mn against net profit takers of QR0.03mn on Wednesday.The Arab individual investors’ net selling weakened substantially to QR2.74mn compared to QR14.52mn on October 18.The foreign individuals’ net profit booking eased markedly to QR0.39mn against QR2.74mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market soared 12% to 169.34mn shares and value by 11% to QR480.5mn, while deals were down 8% to 18,749.The venture market saw a 27% contraction in trade volumes to 1.03mn equities and 1% in value to QR1.55mn but on 28% jump in transactions to 137.

Qatar has been ranked ninth globally in electric vehicle (EV) readiness, signifying its sustainable transportation with Doha positioning as a burgeoning leader in the EV landscape and more consumers preferring an EV.The country achieved this position in the Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index (GEMRIX) 2023, released by Arthur D. Little (ADL), an international management consulting firm.While Norway maintains its position as the global leader in EV readiness, China emerges as a close contender. Following these market leaders, countries like Qatar are laying the groundwork for increased EV adoption.The Qatari government has been proactive in promoting EV adoption, evident through initiatives like achieving 25% electrification of its public transit bus fleet by 2022, it said, adding the Ministry of Transport aims to switch 35% of the total vehicles in its fleet and 100% of its public transport buses to electric by 2030.One key aspect of this effort was the agreement between Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) and fuel retailer Woqod. They have committed to deploying 37 DC fast-charging units for electric vehicles at Woqod stations, with plans for further expansion."Qatar's ambitious EV vision is supported by strong policy frameworks, and the growing charging infrastructure is fuelling the growth of EVs on the country's roads. With Qatar aiming to transition to a sustainable, innovation-driven economy, the government's emphasis on EV adoption is crucial," said Joseph Salem, Partner and Travel and Transportation Practice Lead at Arthur D Little Middle East.Finding that a significant 74% of individuals in Qatar have expressed their willingness to purchase an EV as the next vehicle, the report said this response demonstrates the increasing comfort and acceptance of EVs among the population, creating a favourable environment for the further development of the EV market."The recent FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of electric vehicles in the country. The event served as a catalyst for EV adoption, significantly raising awareness among tourists and locals," said Andreas Schlosser, Partner and Global Lead of the Automotive Group at Arthur D Little.The abundant use of electric buses and taxis during the World Cup not only showcased the capabilities of these vehicles but also encouraged consumers to consider choosing electric vehicles for their own use, he said.Financial institutions in Qatar are responding to the growing consumer interest by offering specialised green financing options to increase the financial attractiveness and facilitate the acquisition of electric and hybrid vehicles.Qatar's robust policy frameworks and consumer willingness are setting the stage for a transformative shift towards electric Mobility, according to the report.The government's commitment to sustainable transportation is further solidified by its ambitious targets and collaborative efforts with the private sector.These include the expansion of charging infrastructure and the promotion of personal EV-charging units for private use. "Together, these efforts not only meet the current demand but also position Qatar as a burgeoning leader in the EV landscape," it said.With continued focus and investment, Qatar is well-positioned to meet its national vision 2030 and set a benchmark for sustainable innovation in the region.

The escalating geopolitical tensions continued to weaken the sentiments in the Qatar Stock Exchange, whose key index lost more than 78 points to settle below the 10,000 mark..text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}}**media[91045]**An across the board selling – particularly in the realty, transport, insurance and industrials sectors – led the 20-stock Qatar Index knock off 0.79% to 9,954.96 points.The Arab individuals were seen increasingly into net selling in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 6.8%.The foreign individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR3.29bn or 0.56% to QR587.11bn with small and microcap segments losing the most.More than 85% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market, whose index however touched an intraday high of 10,052 points.On the negative side, only below the strong support line at 9,585 points could shift the tone to a deeper bearish move and lead to 9,000 points, a Kamco Invest analysis note had said, adding medium-term and long-term investors can re-enter the market at levels higher than 11,150 points and 11,270 points, respectively.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices in the main bourse, which had no trading of exchange traded funds.The Arab institutions turned net profit takers in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened substantially in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index shed 0.79%, All Share Index by 0.67% and Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 1.1% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The real estate sector index tanked 1.98%, transport (1.85%), insurance (1.69%), industrials (1.02%), consumer goods and services (0.88%), telecom (0.39%) and banks and financial services (0.16%).Major losers in the main bourse included Qatari Investors Group, Alijarah Holding, Dlala, Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Mazaya Qatar, Doha Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Inma Holding, Qatari German Medical Devices, Salam International Investment, Widam Food, Mannai Corporation, Industries Qatar, Gulf International Services, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qamco, QLM, Ezdan, Barwa and Nakilat. In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, QNB, Qatar Electricity and Water, Beema, Commercial Bank and Vodafone Qatar were among the gainers in the main market.The Arab individual investors’ net selling increased substantially to QR14.52mn compared to QR0.17mn on October 17.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR2.74mn against net buyers of QR9.02mn the previous day.The local retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR0.97mn compared with net buyers of QR5.64mn on Tuesday.The Arab institutions turned net profit takers to the extent of QR0.03mn against net buyers of QR0.03mn on October 17.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened drastically to QR13.96mn compared to QR34.87mn the previous day.However, the domestic institutions were net buyers to the tune of QR14.21mn against net sellers of QR11.97mn on Tuesday.The Gulf individuals turned net buyers to the extent of QR0.05mn compared with net sellers of QR0.32mn on October 17.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking decreased significantly to QR9.97mn against QR37.07mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market soared 32% to 150.96mn shares, value by 14% to QR433.1mn and deals by 25% to 20,395.The venture market saw a 34% contraction in trade volumes to 1.42mn equities, 1% in value to QR1.56mn and 6% in transactions to 107.

The Qatar Stock Exchange Tuesday declined 12 points on the back of selling pressure, particularly in the transport and banking sectors..text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}} **media[90469]**The Gulf institutions were increasingly net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shrank 0.12% to 1,033.94 points Tuesday.The domestic institutions were seen increasingly bearish in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 6.06%.The foreign institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR1.23bn or 0.21% to QR590.4bn with microcap segments losing the most.However, more than 51% of the traded constituents extended gains in the main market, whose index however touched an intraday high of 10,076 points."The index remains within the negative territory as it closes below all moving averages on the weekly chart. The first improvement sign would happen once the bulls manage to overcome 10,430 points; also found here the upper end level of the one-year descending trend line, which will then increase the chances of targeting 11,215 point," a Kamco Invest technical analysis note said.On the negative side, only below the strong support line at 9,585 points could shift the tone to a deeper bearish move and lead to 9,000 points, it said, adding medium-term and long-term investors can re-enter the market at levels higher than 11,150 points and 11,270 points, respectively.The Islamic index reported gains vis-à-vis declines in the other indices in the main bourse, which had no trading of exchange traded funds.The foreign individuals were increasingly net buyers in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The local retail investors turned bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index shed 0.12% and All Share Index by 0.23%, while the Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) rose 0.25% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The transport sector index lost 1.04% and banks and financial services 0.69%; while real estate gained 1.06%, insurance (0.65%), telecom (0.65%) and industrials (0.47%). The consumer goods and services index was rather unchanged.Major losers in the main bourse included Dlala, Beema, QNB, Milaha, Nakilat, Widam Food and Gulf International Services.In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Meeza, Barwa, Zad Holding, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Ooredoo, Industries Qatar, Qamco, QLM and Qatar Insurance were among the gainers in the main market.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking increased noticeably to QR37.07mn compared to QR28.74mn on October 16.The domestic institutions’ net selling strengthened significantly to QR11.97mn against QR2.76mn on Monday.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened markedly to QR34.87mn compared to QR44.61mn the previous day.However, the foreign individuals’ net buying expanded considerably to QR9.02mn against QR0.34mn on October 16.The local retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR5.64mn compared with net sellers of QR4.87mn on Monday.The Arab institutions’ net buying grew marginally to QR0.03mn against QR0.02mn the previous day.The Arab individuals’ net selling decreased substantially to QR0.17mn compared to QR7.14mn on October 16.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking eased perceptibly to QR0.32mn against QR1.45mn on Monday.Trade volumes in the main market fell 26% to 114.26mn shares, value by 19% to QR379.08mn and deals by 5% to 16,325.The venture market saw 78% contraction in trade volumes to 1.06mn equities, 79% in value to QR1.54mn and 79% in transactions to 101.

The enduring geopolitical crisis had its dampening effect on the regional bourses, including Qatar Stock Exchange, which Monday saw its index dip 81 points and capitalisation.text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}}**media[90082]**erode QR5bn. A higher than average selling pressure, especially in the real estate, consumer goods and industrials sectors, drove the 20-stock Qatar Index down 0.8% to 10,045.6 points.The Gulf institutions were seen bearish in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 5.95%.About 81% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR4.93bn or 0.83% to QR591.63bn with mid and small cap segments losing the most.The Arab retail investors were seen net profit takers in the main market, whose index however touched an intraday high of 10,114 points."The index remains within the negative territory as it closes below all moving averages on the weekly chart. The first improvement sign would happen once the bulls manage to overcome 10,430 points, also found here the upper end level of the one-year descending trend line, which will then increase the chances of targeting 11,215 point," a Kamco Invest technically analysis note said.The Islamic index fell faster than the other indices in the main bourse, which saw a total of 3,980 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn changed hands across four deals.The domestic institutions turned net sellers in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Gulf individuals were increasingly into net profit booking in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index shrank 0.8%, All Share Index by 0.78% and Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 0.85% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The realty sector index plummeted 1.86%, consumer goods and services (1.56%), industrials (0.87%), banks and financial services (0.78%), insurance (0.69%) and telecom (0.31%); while transport gained 0.42%.Major losers in the main market included Alijarah Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Mazaya Qatar, Ezdan, Inma Holding, Commercial Bank, Lesha Bank, Qatari German Medical Devices, Salam International Investment, Baladna, Industries Qatar, Estithmar Holding, Barwa and Gulf Warehousing.Nevertheless, Dlala, Gulf International Services, Milaha and Nakilat were the gainers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares appreciate in value.The Gulf institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR28.74mn compared with net buyers of QR12.6mn on October 15.The Arab individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR7.14mn against net buyers of QR2.98mn the previous day.The domestic institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR2.76mn compared with net buyers of QR18.91mn on Sunday.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking rose perceptibly to QR1.45mn against QR0.53mn on October 15.However, the foreign funds were buyers to the extent of QR44.61mn compared with net sellers of QR14.88mn the previous day.The foreign individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.34mn against net sellers of QR10.02mn on Sunday.The Arab institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR0.02mn compared with net sellers of QR0.26mn on October 15.The local retail investors’ net profit booking weakened markedly to QR4.87mn against QR8.8mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market rose 19% to 153.38mn shares, value by 36% to QR465.65mn and deals by 41% to 17,137.The venture market saw trade volumes jump almost 17-fold to 4.81mn equities and value by more than 17-fold to QR7.34mn on more than 12-fold growth in transactions to 480.

High prices of liquefied natural gas (LNG) led Qatar's banking sector register a 22% growth in net earnings to QR2.8bn in 2022, according to Ernst & Young (EY).Additionally, the banking sector will benefit from Qatar’s commitment to fiscal discipline and its goal of becoming a regional financial hub, EY said in a report.The government has implemented numerous measures to stimulate the country’s economy, including an ambitious infrastructure investment programme, and these investments are expected to result in increased demand for banking services, it said.The Qatar Central Bank is enabling the transformation of the banking sector by supporting the growth of the country’s fintech and payments scene, according to EY.According to the EY Middle East and North Africa H1 (first half) 2023 Banking Report, the region experienced a remarkable year-on- year growth with a 30% surge in net profits and a 12.2% increase in net assets.Meanwhile, the year-on-year returns on equity recorded a rise of 6.18%, and the net interest margin grew by 0.2%.This robust performance extended to the region's banks, which witnessed an 18.8% growth in operating income. Total deposits have increased by 6.08% and the loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR) by 5.43%.Non-performing loans (NPLs) are expected to remain at the current levels in 2023, with banks adopting a selective approach to lending.The outlook for the region has been strengthened by robust oil and gas prices and a major boost in non-oil activity, which has also supported credit demand.Other prominent trends dominating the banking sector include robust fiscal condition, government investments, an anticipated improvement in the global economic landscape and technological advancements."With limited effect to the ongoing banking industry crisis in the US and Europe, the GCC banking sector has undergone a fundamental transformation and is now pursuing a strong upward trajectory, boosted by an increasing demand for lending. This development is playing an increasingly important role in the region’s overall economic growth amidst ongoing economic diversification drives," said Charlie Alexander, EY MENA Financial Services Leader.Another positive trend is the pursuit of net-zero roadmaps by most GCC countries, which has led to a rise in the demand for sustainable finance, a key enabler of the transition to clean energy, according to him.Highlighting that digital banking solution is on the rise to meet evolving consumer needs; EY said artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the financial services industry in the region, bringing faster and more personalised banking services through chatbot.The report said front-to-back modernisation, cloud migration and robotic process automation can help banks establish connections between customer-facing operations and back-end servicing, minimising inefficiencies."Over the past six months, we have seen an accelerated adoption of growth of digital transformation and implementation of robust risk management practices in the region, which should not be forgotten in the frenzy of growth. Financial institutions are also increasing their transparency and disclosure of environmental and social risks and impacts," said Houssam Itani, EY Mena Banking and Capital Markets Leader.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) Sunday opened the week with a rollercoaster ride as its key index finally settled six points higher despite 65% of the traded constituents extending losses to investors.The industrials, consumer goods and real estate sectors witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index was up 0.06% to 10,126.46 points.The domestic and Gulf funds were increasingly into net buying in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated further to 5.19%.The Arab individuals were seen bullish in the main bourse, whose capitalisation however shrank QR0.78bn or 0.13% to QR596.56bn with microcap segments losing the most.The local retail investors’ weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market, which however touched an intraday high of 10,165 points.The Islamic index outperformed the other indices in the main bourse, which saw a total of 0.02mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Doha Bank) valued at QR0.09mn changed hands across 10 deals.However, the foreign institutions were seen bearish in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The foreign individuals turned net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index was up 0.06% and Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 0.18%, while All Share Index was down 0.04% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The industrials sector index shot up 1.25%, consumer goods and services (0.64%) and realty (0.18%); while telecom declined 1.53%, transport (0.84%), banks and financial services (0.45%) and insurance (0.12%).Major movers in the main market included Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Industries Qatar, Zad Holding, Barwa and Woqod.Nevertheless, Qatari German Medical Devices, Ooredoo, Meeza, Ezdan, Milaha, Masraf Al Rayan, QNB, Gulf Warehousing and Nakilat were among the losers in the main bourse. In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.The domestic institutions’ net buying increased noticeably to QR18.91mn compared to QR4.39mn on October 12.The Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened considerably to QR12.6mn against QR2.88mn the previous trading day.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.98mn compared with net sellers of QR8.7mn last Thursday.The local retail investors’ net profit booking decreased substantially to QR8.8mn against QR19.93mn on October 12.The Gulf individual investors’ net selling weakened markedly to QR0.53mn compared to QR8.8mn the previous day.However, the foreign institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR14.88mn against net buyers of QR28.08mn last Thursday.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR10.02mn compared with net buyers of QR2.08mn on October 12.The Arab institutions were net profit takers to the extent of QR0.26mn against no major net exposure the previous trading day.Trade volumes in the main market declined 15% to 128.69mn shares, value by 23% to QR369.44mn and deals by 32% to 12,150.The venture market saw a 67% plunge in trade volumes to 0.29mn equities, 75% in value to QR0.42mn and 69% in transactions to 39.

The Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) Sunday suggested a seven-point agenda for the global leaders to ensure ethical and sustainable economies."To advance an ethical and sustainable economy, we must take actions on several fronts," Musa Kulaklikaya, Assistant Secretary-General for Administration and Finance, OIC, told the 6th International Conference on Islamic Finance, jointly organised by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC).Asserting that the first and foremost was the sovereign policies and regulations; he said the government must implement and enforce policies that incentivise ethical and sustainable conduct.Ethical business practices, supply chain transparency and sustainability initiatives should be central for the corporate sector, he said.Kulaklikaya said consumers have a great role to play as they could choose from companies that follow and practice ethical and sustainable standards.There should be investment in innovation as there is a need to improve ethical standards through the use of technology, according to him.Highlighting that education and awareness, Kulaklikaya said they are important to raise the importance of ethics and sustainability.He emphasised on the need for international collaboration in addressing the global issues like climate change, inequality and poverty."An ethical and sustainable economy is not just an option but more a survival strategy for our planet," he said, adding there was a need to build sustainable practices at leverage level of the society.The conference is of the view that the Islamic finance has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. In the light of the global financial instabilities and socio-economic challenges, it has become imperative to redirect the focus of Islamic finance towards addressing contemporary issues, which can be achieved by integrating emerging technologies and remaining steadfast in upholding the ethical and moral principles of Islamic finance.Sheikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary-General, Al-Baraka Islamic Economics Forum, Saudi Arabia, and Board Member, Al-Baraka Group; talked about the ethical and sustainable strategies for the Islamic finance, while Dr Recep Şentürk, Dean, HBKU’s College of Islamic Studies gave a welcome note.Islamic finance offers a distinctive perspective by prioritising ethical and moral values, including social responsibility and distributive justice, the conference committee said adding by incorporating these values into practices, Islamic finance can contribute to building a more stable and equitable global economy, according to the conference.

Islamic finance can prove to be a persuasive tool for addressing the global sustainable development goals, according to a top official of Qatar Financial Centre (QFC).Addressing the sixth International Conference on Islamic Finance, Nasser al-Taweel, deputy chief executive officer and chief legal officer, QFC, said the world is confronted by important issues that demand urgent attention, such as the growing gap between rich and poor countries and the return of extreme poverty.Furthermore, the ongoing climate challenges are rapidly approaching a critical threshold, leading to concerning impacts on the earth's ecological balance and stability, according to him."In these critical times, Islamic finance can be a compelling tool for addressing the global sustainable development goals, propelling us toward the sustainable and equitable socio-economic condition we all desire," he said at the conference, jointly organised by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and QFC.Islamic finance principles are inherently aligned with sustainable and equitable financial practices, discouraging investments that harm the environment or exploit vulnerable populations, he added.Through the promotion of ethical and socially responsible financial activities, facilitation of financial inclusion, and support for sustainable projects, Islamic finance institutions can make substantial contributions to global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) endeavours, according to him.The QFC official highlighted that the United Nations' recent report on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development paints a clear picture of reversed progress across a number of its 17 goals, owing to a number of crises taking place in different parts of the world.“This sobering assessment is echoed by the World Economic Forum, which likewise signals a concerning reversal of progress in critical areas,” he said.Exploring ways to harness Islamic finance' s vast potential to address pressing environmental and socio-economic issues; he said "we will delve into emerging technologies as pivotal drivers of financial innovation, unearthing substantial opportunities for Islamic finance to expand its reach, enhance accessibility, and streamline processes, all while upholding its unwavering ethical foundations.""Furthermore, we will explore ways to make Islamic financial services accessible to a broader spectrum of society in order to promote financial inclusion. At the same time, we will look into strategies that ensure Islamic finance instruments are employed judiciously in funding sustainable and socially responsible projects that align seamlessly with these principles," he added.He said the QFC and HBKU share a common vision for the advancement of Islamic finance and this shared commitment is evident in its partnership to bring this annual event to fruition."Our dedication extends to creating an environment conducive to the flourishing of Islamic finance, one that fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and exposure to novel ideas and technologies that drive industry growth," he said.

The easing of the US rate concerns and higher oil prices extended a strong buying support this week to the Qatar Stock Exchange, which overcame the negative sentiments owing to the changed geopolitical situation.The foreign institutions were seen bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index gained 0.57% this week which saw QNB report net profit of QR11.87bn in the first nine months of this year.The banking sector alone saw its index surge in the main market this week which saw QNB successfully refinance $2bn unsecured term loan.Nevertheless, more than 66% of the traded constituents in the main bourse were in the red this week, which saw Industries Qatar subsidiary Qatar Steel completes acquisition of Al Qataria for Production of Reinforced Steel for QR346mn.The local retail investors continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse this week, which saw the International Monetary Fund forecast that Qatar’s real gross domestic product growth is projected to be 2.4% this year and 2.2% in 2024.The Gulf individuals were seen increasingly into net selling in the main bourse this week which saw the country's hospitality sector report lower (year-on-year) rooms’ yield this August despite a 78% jump in visitor arrivals.The Islamic index declined vis-a-vis gains in the other indices in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.04mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.08mn trade across 14 deals.The Gulf institutions turned net profit takers in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.12mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR1.15mn change hands across 52 transactions.Market capitalisation added QR3.85bn or 0.65% to QR597.34bn on the back of midcap segments this week which saw the industrials and banks together constitute more than 52% of the total trade volume in the main bourse.The Total Return Index rose 0.57% and the All Share Index by 0.68%, while the All Islamic Index lost 0.64% this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The banks and financial services sector index surge 2.14%; while transport declined 1.85%, consumer goods and services (1.32%), telecom (0.88%) and insurance (0.77%). The index of industrials was rather unchanged this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Major gainers in the main market included QNB, Dlala, Commercial Bank, Industries Qatar, Mekdam Holding, Beema, Qatar National Cement and Qatar Industrial Manufacturing this week which saw Qatar’s automobile sector see a robust month-on-month growth in August 2023.Nevertheless, Inma Holding, United Development Company, Mazaya Qatar, Baladna, Doha Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Estithmar Holding, Qamco, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, QLM, Ezdan, Ooredoo, Milaha and Nakilat were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value this week.The foreign funds were net buyers to the tune of QR40.92mn compared with net sellers of QR90.99mn the week ended October 5.However, the Gulf individuals’ net profit booking increased noticeably to QR21.04mn against QR5.24mn a week ago.The Gulf funds turned net sellers to the extent of QR17.23mn compared with net buyers of QR37.43mn the previous week.The domestic institutions were net profit takers to the tune of QR14.15mn against net buyers of QR14.47mn the week ended October 5.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the extent of QR4.33mn compared with net buyers of QR6.99mn a week ago.The Arab individual investors were net sellers to the tune of QR0.36mn against net buyers of QR1.32mn the previous week.The Arab institutions turned net profit takers to extent of QR0.09mn compared with no major net exposure the week ended October 5.The local retail investors’ net buying weakened substantially to QR16.27mn against QR36.04mn a week ago.The main market witnessed a 1% jump in trade volumes to 907.97mn shares, 10% in value to QR2.45bn and 15% in deals to 86,107 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes shrank 14% to 3.16mn equities, value by 20% to QR4.88mn and transactions by 23% to 366.

Qatar's banking system is slated to see a reduction in net external debt in the next 12-24 months and the concerns over its external funding stability is mitigated by non-resident deposits' linkage to long-term investments in the country, according to Standard and Poor's (S&P), a global credit rating agency."We expect the reduction in net external debt to continue in the next 12-24 months, driven by the same factors as in 2022 and supported by a reduced need for external funding," S&P said in its report.In early 2022, the Qatar Central Bank changed regulations, aimed at reducing the use of external debt to grow domestic balance sheets. That, alongside rising interest rates, led to a "significant unwinding" of non-resident deposits, and has somewhat changed the overall structure of the country’s external debt, the rating agency said.Over 2022, non-resident deposits fell by more than $20bn, equal to about one third of their value at the end of 2021; while interbank deposits increased by more than 13%, leading to an overall $17bn decline in net banking system external debt.An increase in resident deposits of $23.2bn (up 12.3%) - 41.5% from the public sector and 58.5% from the private sector - offset the decline in non-resident funds.Highlighting that the rationale for Qatar’s development of an external debt imbalance was the desire to secure low-cost funding for significant domestic expenditures; S&P said with the completion of some major infrastructure developments, and due to increased government revenues, "we expect spending (and funding pressures) will ease."Moreover, the credit rating agency said its concerns on Qatar’s external funding stability are mitigated by its understanding that a significant portion of the non-resident deposits are linked to longer-term investments in Qatar.Reportedly, the funds also include deposits from Qatari companies abroad and possibly from entities partly owned by Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund.Also, "we expect funding support would be available from the government and central bank if needed," it said.In this regard, S&P noted that in 2017, the banking system experienced outflows of about $20bn, which were more than compensated by a more than $40bn deposit injection from the government and its related entities."Indeed, one of Qatar’s strengths is its external finances, which are in a strong net asset position, bolstered by the government’s substantial wealth fund," the report said.Qatar’s banking system, which still carries a "significant" amount of net external debt, is unlikely to expand much this year 2023, implying a lower need for external funding, it said.Although Qatari banks benefit from geographical funding diversification, some of these external sources are less stable. As on March 31, 2023, the equivalent of almost two-thirds of the domestic funding gap was covered by capital markets and due to branches and head offices, while the remainder was covered by interbank deposits.Amid scarcer and more expensive global liquidity, "we expect Qatari banks to continue mobilising domestic resources to meet future growth", the rating agency said.However, S&P do not expect the latter to materially pick up until a major new investment programme is implemented by the government.

Reflecting easing global concerns about the US interest rates, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) Wednesday saw its index jump more than 171 points to surpass 10,000 and.text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}}**media[87751]**capitalisation add QR11bn. The foreign institutions turned bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index shot up 1.74% to 10,023.13 points.The banking sector witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated further to 6.16%.The Gulf institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR11.21bn or 1.93% to QR592.77bn with large and midcap segments gaining the most.The Arab individuals were increasingly net buyers in the main market, which touched an intraday high of 10,072 points.The Islamic index rose slower than the other indices in the main bourse, which saw a total of 0.04mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.15mn changed hands across 12 deals.The Gulf retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.More than 68% of the traded constituents extended gains in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index gained 1.74%, the All Share Index by 1.97% and the Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 0.88% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The banks and financial services sector index shot up 3.36%, insurance (1.39%), transport (0.85%), real estate (0.62%), consumer goods and services (0.53%) and industrials (0.46%); while telecom was down 0.04%.Major gainers in the main market included Dlala, Al Khaleej Takaful, QNB, Doha Insurance, Qatari German Medical Devices, Commercial Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Salam International Investment, Qatari Investors Group, Qamco, QLM, Ezdan, Gulf Warehousing and Milaha. In the venture market, Mahhar Holding saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Inma Holding, Widam Food, Estithmar Holding, Medicare Group and Qatar Islamic Insurance were among the shakers in the main market.In the junior bourse, Al Faleh Educational Holding saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR50.73mn compared with net sellers of QR1.13mn on October 10.The Gulf institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR12.31mn against net sellers of QR33.49mn on Tuesday.The Arab individual investors’ net buying increased marginally to QR5.62mn compared to QR4.97mn the previous day.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking weakened markedly to QR1.67mn against QR9.52mn on October 10.However, the domestic institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR36.19mn compared with net buyers of QR12.61mn on Tuesday.The local retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR23.72mn against net buyers of QR22.58mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors turned net profit takers to the tune of QR7.09mn compared with net buyers of QR4mn on October 10.The Arab institutions continued to have no major net exposure for the third straight session.Trade volumes in the main market shot up 12% to 224.43mn shares, value by 31% to QR674mn and deals by 37% to 23,586.The venture market saw a 21% surge in trade volumes to 0.8mn equities, 49% in value to QR1.27mn and 9% in transactions to 71.

Doha's outskirts displayed opportunities for the real estate and construction sectors as Al Shamal, Al Shahaniya, Al Daayen and Al Rayyan municipalities saw double-digit month-on-month growth in building permits issued this September, even as the general trend was on the decline at the national level, according to official data.The country saw as many as 655 building permits issued in September 2023, which however shrank 2% month-on-month and 26% year-on-year in the review period, according to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA).Al Rayyan, Doha and Al Daayen municipalities together constituted 68% of the total building permit issued in September 2023.The building permits data is of particular importance as it is considered an indicator for the performance of the construction sector which in turn occupies a significant position in the national economy.Al Rayyan constituted 180 permits or 27% of the total, Doha 138 permits (21%), Al Daayen 130 permits (20%), Al Wakra 112 permits (17%), Umm Slal 37 permits (6%), Al Khor 30 permits (5%), Al Shahaniya 18 permits (3%), and Al Shamal 10 permits (1%) in the review period.On a monthly basis, the total building permits issued in Al Khor saw a 27% plunge, Umm Slal (23%), Al Wakra (16%), and Doha (9%); whereas those in Al Shamal, Al Shahaniya, Al Daayen and Al Rayyan witnessed 43%, 29%, 19% and 12% increase respectively in September 2023.Total building permits issued in Doha fell 39% year-on-year this September, Al Shamal (38%), Al Wakra (32%), Al Rayyan (28%), Umm Slal (27%), Al Khor (25%), and Al Shahaniya (10%); while those in Al Daayen rose 12%.The new building permits (residential and non-residential) constituted 226 permits or 35% of the total building permits issued, additions 407 (62%) and fencing 22 (3%) in September 2023.Of the new residential buildings permits, villas topped the list, accounting for 75% (134), dwellings on housing loans 13% (23), and apartments 8% (14).Among the non-residential sector, commercial structures accounted for 28% or 13 permits, other unspecified non-residential 25% or 12 permits, and the industrial buildings as workshops and factories 19% (nine permits).Qatar saw a total of 346 building completion certificates issued in September 2023, of which 279 or 81% was for the new buildings (residential and non-residential) and 67 or 19% for additions.Al Wakra constituted 109 certificates or 32% of the total number of building completion certificates issued in the review period, Al Rayyan 76 (22%), Doha 64 (18%), Al Daayen 45 (13%), Umm Slal 22 (6%), Al Khor 16 (5%), Al Shahaniya 10 (3%) and Al Shamal four (1%) in September 2023.The total building completion certificates issued in the country saw a 10% month-on-month fall in September 2023 with Al Shamal registering 67% plunge, Umm Slal (51%), Al Daayen (37%), Al Rayyan (34%), and Al Shahaniya (17%).However, Al Khor, Al Wakra and Doha reported 60%, 49% and 39% increase respectively in the review period.The total building completion certificates issued in the country tanked 39% on an annualised basis in September 2023 with Al Shamal reporting 73% contraction, Al Daayen (55%), Al Rayyan (52%), Doha (41%), Umm Slal (19%) and Al Wakra (17%). Nevertheless, those issued in Al Khor and Al Shahaniya was unchanged in the review period.Of the 204 residential buildings completion certificates issued this September, as many as 155 or 76% were for villas, 28 or 14% dwelling on housing loans, 8% or 16 for apartments, and five others.Of the 155 villas completion certificates issued in September 2023, as many as 36 were in Al Rayyan, 32 in Al Daayen, 31 in Al Wakra, 25 in Doha, 13 in Umm Slal, 12 in Al Khor, four in Al Shahaniya and two in Al Shamal.In the case of 16 apartments, Doha issued eight completion certificates; four in Al Daayen, two in Al Wakra, and one each in Umm Slal and Al Khor.

The domestic institutions’ net buying support Tuesday helped the Qatar Stock Exchange snap four consecutive days of bearish run and its key index added 16 points. .text-box { float:left; width:250px; padding:1px; border:1pt white; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 20px;}@media only screen and (max-width: 767px) {.text-box {width: 30%;}} **media[87185]**The real estate, industrials, telecom, consumer goods and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.16% to 9,851.97 points.More than 51% of the traded constituents extended gains in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated to 7.76%.The Arab retail investors were seen net buyers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.81bn or 0.31% to QR581.56bn with midcap segments gaining the most.The foreign individuals were increasingly bullish in the main market, which however touched an intraday high of 9,944 points.The Islamic index rose faster than the main index in the main bourse, which saw a total of 0.06mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.59mn changed hands across 21 deals.The foreign institutions’ weakened net selling had its influence in the main market, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The local retail investors continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index gained 0.16%, All Share Index by 0.2% and Al Rayan Islamic Index (Price) by 0.2% in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The realty sector index rose 0.9%, industrials (0.73%), telecom (0.29%), consumer goods and services (0.25%) and banks and financial services (0.21%); while transport and insurance declined 1.34% and 0.79% respectively.Major gainers in the main market included Lesha Bank, Qatari German Medical Devices, Inma Holding, Beema, Al Khaleej Takaful, Dlala, Industries Qatar, Aamal Company, Mazaya Qatar, Gulf International Services and Ezdan.Nevertheless, Gulf Warehousing, Nakilat, Qatari Investors Group, Qatar Insurance, Doha Bank, Alijarah Holding and Qatar Islamic Bank were among the shakers in main bourse. In the venture market, both Al Faleh Educational Holding and Mahhar Holding saw their shares depreciate in value.The domestic institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR12.61mn compared with net sellers of QR1.16mn on October 9.The Arab individual investors were net buyers to the extent of QR4.97mn against net sellers of QR1.7mn on Monday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying increased perceptibly to QR4mn compared to QR1.32mn the previous day.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking decreased substantially to QR1.13mn against QR31.97mn on October 9.However, the Gulf institutions’ net selling increased significantly to QR33.49mn compared to QR6.95mn on Monday.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking expanded markedly to QR9.52mn against QR0.95mn the previous day.The local retail investors’ net buying weakened considerably to QR22.58mn compared to QR41.42mn on October 8.The Arab institutions continued to have no major net exposure for the second straight session.Trade volumes in the main market shot up 10% to 200.18mn shares, value by 12% to QR515.98mn and deals by 3% to 17,192.The venture market saw a 65% surge in trade volumes to 0.66mn equities to more than double value to QR0.85mn on 41% jump in transactions to 65.