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Scale Now, which enables Qatari founded technology companies to become global competitors, has secured deals valued at $12.9mn, positioning Qatar as a regional hub for digital innovation, according to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT).Of the $12.9mn in deals secured, as much as $7.2mn was in B2B (business-to-business) and $5.7mn in direct investments, said a MCIT presentation made recently after roping in four more partners – Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Invest Qatar, QDB (Qatar Development Bank) and Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council - for the programme."Scale Now is more than a programme; it is a coordinated national platform turning digital innovation into tangible economic impact," MCIT said.About $7.2mn in B2B (business to business) transactions; the presentation said it demonstrated strong market validation and confidence in Qatar’s scale-up ecosystem.The Cycle 1 had secured $5.7mn in direct investments through a mix of private funding, grants, and investor partnerships.The participating entities from Cycle 1 reported sustained growth, validating the effectiveness of the programme’s capability-building and market access model, it said, highlighting more than 50% average revenue growth and one successful international market expansion in Cycle 1.The Cycle 1 brought together six market-ready companies delivering solutions from digital payments and marketplaces to airport operations and immersive media.It saw Mzad Qatar, providing a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform that connects buyers and sellers; SkipCash, enabling businesses to implement secure online payment solutions through a streamlined digital platform; and EMMA Systems, delivering airport software that improves operational efficiency and data management.The Cycle 1 also saw ADGS, offering behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance powered by proprietary AI models; SPONIX, providing immersive video solutions and virtual advertising that enable engaging real-time content during live events; and ClassTap, offering flexible access to more than 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription platform.Scale Now contributes directly to Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030's national employment target by equipping founders and creating high-value digital roles across tech sectors, aiming more than 26,000 ICT (information, communication and technology) jobs by 2030."Through its collaborative model, Scale Now is enabling Qatari-founded technology companies to become global competitors, strengthening the nation’s economic resilience, export potential, and job creation capacity," it said.By providing tailored mentorship, strategic partnerships, investment readiness and facilitating access to pilot opportunities, the programme helps high-potential companies transform proven traction into sustainable growth. It strengthens Qatar’s digital economy, aligns with the Digital Agenda 2030 and positions the country as a global hub for innovation and expansion."We will refer high-potential companies from Startup Qatar to future Scale Now cohorts, support access to funding and grants, and help shape a connected, resilient ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive," Invest Qatar had said.Invest Qatar serves as the gateway for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, guiding them through each stage of their business journey — from exploration to expansion — by providing comprehensive insights, market knowledge and facilitating connections with key government and private sector stakeholders.

The US Federal Reserve rate cut and easing of the US-China trade tensions had their positive influence on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), where bullish sentiments prevailed for the second consecutive week. The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled 0.73% higher this week which saw the market heavyweight Industries Qatar (IQ) report QR3.4bn net profit in the first nine months (9M) of 2025. The telecom and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main bourse this week which saw Nakilat report net profit of QR1.31bn in January-September 2025. The Gulf retail investor turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw Ooredoo Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR3.1bn. The overall sentiments was seen upbeat in the market that otherwise saw shakers outnumber movers this week, which saw Aamal Company approved the sale of IMO Qatar to Frijns Structural Steel Middle East for QR6.5mn. The domestic institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse this week which saw Qamco report net profit of QR534mn in 9M-2025. The local retail investors were also increasingly bearish in the main market this week which saw Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding report a net profit of QR520mn in January-September 2025. The foreign individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.06mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.13mn trade across 23 deals. The foreign funds were seen net profit takers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.06mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QETF worth QR0.6mn trade across 54 transactions. The Islamic index was seen gaining faster than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. Market capitalisation added QR4.14bn or 0.64% to QR654.74n on the back of small and midcap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills. Trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes in the main market, while the junior bourse saw declines in turnover and volumes this week which saw the consumer goods, industrials and realty sectors together constitute more than three-fourth of the total trade volumes. The Total Return Index rose 0.73%, the All Share Index by 0.62% and the All Islamic Index by 0.81% this week which saw Meeza report net profit of QR42.4mn in January-September 2025. The telecom sector index surged 2.48%, insurance (2.32%), real estate (0.68%), industrials (0.52%), banks and financial services (0.48%) and consumer goods and services (0.44%), while transport was down 0.08% this week which saw Mekdam Holding Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR27.8mn. The market was skewed towards shakers with as many as 28 constituents reporting declines, while 22 gained and two were unchanged this week which saw Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance report net profit of QR93.08mn in 9M-2025. Major movers in the main market included QLM, Qatar German Medical Devices, Beema, Ooredoo, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Qatar Islamic Bank, Woqod, IQ, Qatar Insurance, Al Khaleej Takaful and Ezdan. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate this week. Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Baladna, Qamco, Qatar Oman Investment, Mannai Corporation, Alijarah Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water, Aamal Company, Mazaya Qatar and Gulf Warehousing were among the shakers in the main market this week. The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR191.29mn compared to QR36.59mn the week ended October 23. The Gulf individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.61mn against net profit takers of QR6.35mn the previous week. However, the domestic institutions’ net selling strengthened significantly to QR102.18mn compared to QR5.12mn a week ago. The Qatari individuals’ net selling expanded noticeably to QR78.59mn against QR63.59mn the week ended October 23. The foreign retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR7.85mn compared with net buyers of QR5.17mn the previous week. The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR2.53mn against net buyers of QR32.94mn a week ago. The Arab individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR1.75mn compared with net buyers of QR0.33mn the week ended October 23. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn the previous week. The main market saw 7% contraction in trade volumes to 551.21mn shares but on 14% jump in value to QR1.65bn and less than 1% in deals to 94,631 this week. In the venture market, trade volumes tanked 67% to 0.12mn equities, value by 68% to QR0.27mn and transactions by 65% to 45.

The Qatar Stock Exchange yesterday saw foreign funds turn bullish as its key barometer gained as much as 29 points, a day after the Qatar Central Bank reduced key rate, following the move by the US Federal Reserve. The telecom, insurance and transport counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,956.78 points. The market, which saw a rollercoaster ride throughout the session, had touched an intraday low of 10,925 points. The Arab individuals were seen bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 3.65%. The Gulf funds continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.62bn or 0.25% to QR654.74bn, mainly on small cap segments. The domestic institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main market, which saw as many as 230 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank) valued at QR530 trade across three deals. The local retail investors were also increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise. The Islamic index was seen outperforming the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills. The foreign retail investors were seen bearish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. The Total Return Index rose 0.26%, the All Share Index by 0.23% and the All Islamic Index by 0.32% in the main market. The telecom sector index shot up 2.68%, insurance (1.2%), transport (0.42%), real estate (0.27%) and banks and financial services (0.11%); while industrials declined 0.24% and consumer goods and services 0.09%. As many as 24 stocks gained, while 24 declined and four were unchanged. Major gainers in the main market included QLM, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Ooredoo, Al Khaleej Takaful, Qatar Insurance, Gulf International Services and Nakilat. Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Meeza, Inma Holding, Lesha Bank, Al Mahhar Holding, Industries Qatar and Qamco were among the shakers in the junior bourse. The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR30.79mn compared with net sellers of QR8.65mn the previous day. The Arab retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR1.77mn against net sellers of QR1.5mn on October 29. However, the domestic institutions’ net selling increased substantially to QR44.43mn compared to QR19.25mn on Wednesday. The local individual investors’ net selling expanded significantly to QR30.14mn against QR22.12mn the previous day. The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR7.86mn compared with net buyers of QR1.25mn on October 29. The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking increased marginally to QR0.28mn against QR0.06mn on Wednesday. The Gulf institutions’ net buying decreased marginally to QR50.17mn compared to QR50.33mn the previous day. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fifth straight session. The main market saw a 6% jump in trade volumes to 113.32mn shares, 22% surge in value to QR365.17mn and 27% in deals to 25,070. In the venture market, a total of 0.02mn equities valued at QR0.05mn changed hands across three transactions.

Global rating agency Moody's has assigned ‘(P)Aa2’ rating and "stable" outlook to Qatar's Global Sukuk Ventures’ issuance programme. The rating agency assigned a foreign-currency backed senior unsecured MTN (medium-term note) rating of ‘(P)Aa2’ to the trust certificate issuance programme of Global Sukuk Ventures, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) incorporated in Qatar and wholly owned by the government of Qatar. The trust certificates issued by the SPV will constitute direct, unconditional and unsubordinated obligations of the sovereign, which will rank pari passu with all current and future senior unsecured external debt of the Government of Qatar. The proceeds of the issuances are intended for general budget purposes. Proceeds from any green instrument issuances are intended to finance new or refinance existing projects eligible under the government's green financing framework. The rating mirrors the government of Qatar's Aa2 long-term issuer rating and stable outlook. "We note that our sukuk ratings do not express an opinion on the structures' compliance with Shariah Law," Moody's said. Qatar's Aa2 ratings are supported by its vast hydrocarbon reserves, exceptionally high per-capita income and the government's very strong balance sheet. These strengths provide significant shock-absorption capacity and mitigate the sovereign's high economic and fiscal exposure to declines in hydrocarbon demand and prices, longer-term risks related to global carbon transition, and risks arising from regional geopolitical tensions, the rating agency said. Highlighting that the stable outlook reflects a balance of risks at the current rating level; Moody's said a scenario where hydrocarbon demand and prices decline significantly and durably, "potentially as a result of a more rapid global carbon transition than we currently expect, would result in a material fiscal deterioration." On the other hand, potentially faster and more significant progress on economic and fiscal diversification poses an upside risk to the credit profile. "Longer-term risks related to carbon transition are also mitigated by Qatar's track record of policy effectiveness and access to ample financial buffers that the government can use to accelerate and sustain economic diversification," it said. Furthermore, demand for Qatar's hydrocarbon export mix, which is dominated by LNG (liquefied natural gas), is likely to peak considerably later than demand for other fossil fuels, allowing the sovereign more time to adjust, including by broadening its government revenue base. Near-term risks related to elevated regional geopolitical tensions are balanced by the government's very large stock of financial assets, which are available to buffer temporary declines in exports and government revenue even in a very low-probability scenario where maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted due to an escalating regional conflict, according to Moody's.

Ahead of the US Federal Reserve meeting, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today edged up marginally higher amidst buying interests in four of the seven sectors.The foreign institutions’ weakened net selling was visible as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled three points higher at 10,928.23 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,878 points.The insurance, banks and telecom counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 3.38%.The domestic funds’ lower net profit booking also had its influence on the main bourse, whose capitalisation was largely flat at QR653.12bn, mainly on microcap segments.The local retail investors continued to be net profit takers but with lesser vigour in the main market, which saw as many as 1,276 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR9,243 trade across three deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be bullish but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The foreign retail investors were seen net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index was up 0.03% and the All Share Index by 0.04%, while the All Islamic Index was down 0.01% in the main market.The insurance sector index rose 0.2%, banks and financial services (0.16%), telecom (0.08%) and consumer goods and services (0.03%); while transport declined 0.35%, real estate (0.17%) and industrials (0.14%).As many as 18 stocks gained, while 27 declined and seven were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Meeza, Beema, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar National Cement, Al Mahhar Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank and Lesha Bank.In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, as much as 52% of the traded constituents were in the red with major shakers being Estithmar Holding, Gulf Warehousing, Mazaya Qatar, Aamal Company, Qatar Oman Investment, Vodafone Qatar and Nakilat.The foreign individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.25mn compared with net sellers of QR3.22mn on Tuesday.The foreign institutions’ net selling declined substantially to QR8.65mn against QR23.26mn the previous day.The local individual investors’ net selling shrank significantly to QR22.12mn compared to QR39.09mn on October 28.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking weakened markedly to QR19.25mn against QR26.87mn on Tuesday.The Arab retail investors’ net selling declined perceptibly to QR1.5mn compared to QR2.96mn the previous day.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR0.06mn against QR1.7mn on October 28.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying decreased drastically to QR50.33mn compared to QR97.09mn on Tuesday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth straight session.The main market saw an 18% contraction in trade volumes to 106.94mn shares, 38% surge in value to QR299.24mn and 3% in deals to 19,678.In the venture market, a total of 0.03mn equities valued at QR0.06mn changed hands across 13 transactions.

The outlook for Middle East and North Africa (Mena) IPOs (initial public offerings) remains "strong", with 19 companies and funds across various sectors intending to list on the region’s exchanges, according to Ernst and Young (EY). "With strong regulatory frameworks and a healthy pipeline leading into Q4 (fourth quarter) of 2025, the region is well-positioned for sustained, long-term growth which is likely to attract continued international participation," Brad Watson, EY-Parthenon Mena Leader, said. Saudi Arabia continues to lead with 13 entities, including Almasar Alshamil Education Company and Al Romansiah Company, having received approval from the Capital Market Authority (CMA), EY said in its latest report. In the UAE, ALEC Holdings was successfully listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) as of October 15, 2025. "In Q4-2025, we can look forward to a healthy pipeline, highlighting the region’s position as a hub for capital market activity," Gregory Hughes, EY-Parthenon Mena IPO Leader, said. With lower oil prices, he said, it continues to see economic diversification from non-oil revenues, and the sector focus for Saudi listings transitioned from healthcare and mobility in Q2-2025 to real estate, hospitality, construction and retail. Amid shifting market dynamics, performance in this past quarter reflects the increasing depth and maturity of Mena capital markets, supported by a steady pace of listings across multiple sectors and geographies, Watson said. "Companies are becoming increasingly strategic with market timing – carefully assessing investor sentiment and macroeconomic conditions before going public," he added. In the non-GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) countries, Diar Dzair from Algeria and Gharb Papier Et Carton from Morocco have announced their intention to list, pending regulatory approval. This trend is supported by sustained policy momentum, diversified market participation and a growing focus on the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects. These factors continue to position the region as a key destination for capital formation and investment. Highlighting that regulatory reforms in Mena are progressing as regional markets mature; it said in the UAE, updated governance rules now permit the combination of board chair and chief executive officer roles under defined conditions, while Saudi Arabia’s CMA initiated consultations on proposed amendments to market-making regulations and foreign ownership limits. "These steps are aimed at enhancing liquidity, transparency and access to capital," EY report said. According to the EY Mena IPO Eye Q3 (third quarter) 2025 report, the region continued to demonstrate healthy activity and investor interest, with 11 IPOs, raising $0.7bn in total proceeds. The number of listings increased by 120% compared with the same quarter last year, driven by mid-market activity.

Easing trade tensions between the US and China had its positive influence on the Qatar Stock Exchange, which today gained more than 28 points in index and about QR2bn in capitalisation.The Gulf institutions were seen robustly bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,924.78 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,886 points.The insurance and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 3.35%.More than 46% of the traded constituents returned gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.72bn or 0.26% to QR653.22bn, mainly on small cap segments.However, the local retail investors turned net profit takers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.01mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn trade across nine deals.The domestic institutions were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The foreign funds were increasingly bearish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 0.26%, the All Share Index by 0.22% and the All Islamic Index by 0.24% in the main market.The insurance sector index rose 0.75%, industrials (0.73%), transport (0.25%), banks and financial services (0.09%) and telecom (0.07%); while consumer goods and services declined 0.22% and real estate 0.03%.As many as 24 stocks gained, while 21 declined and seven were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Estithmar Holding, Industries Qatar, Doha Insurance and Commercial Bank.Nevertheless, Qamco, Baladna, Widam Food, Al Mahhar Holding and Dlala were among the shakers in the main bourse.In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The Gulf institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR97.09mn compared with net sellers of QR9.1mn the previous day.However, the local individual investors were net sellers to the extent of QR39.09mn against net buyers of QR12.08mn on Monday.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking strengthened significantly to QR26.87mn compared to QR0.57mn on October 27.The foreign institutions’ net selling expanded substantially to QR23.26mn against QR1.22mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR3.22mn compared with net buyers of QR2.19mn on Monday.The Arab individuals were net profit takers to the extent of QR2.96mn against net buyers of QR4.13mn on October 27.The Gulf individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.7mn compared with net buyers of QR2.49mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the third straight session.The main market saw a 32% jump in trade volumes to 130.62mn shares, 67% surge in value to QR479.51mn and 9% in deals to 20,291.In the venture market, a total of 0.01mn equities valued at QR0.03mn changed hands across nine transactions.

The Qatar Stock Exchange today shed more than 16 points on selling pressure especially in the telecom, industrials, transport and real estate counters.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled 0.15% lower at 10,896.08 points, but recovering from an intraday low of 10,850 points.The Gulf institutions turned bearish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 3.07%.About 73% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR2.24bn or 0.34% to QR651.5bn, mainly on small cap segments.The domestic funds continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 0.08mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.65mn trade across 56 deals.The local retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab individual investors turned net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.15%, the All Share Index by 0.15% and the All Islamic Index by 0.21% in the main market.The telecom sector index declined 0.78%, industrials (0.67%), transport (0.65%), real estate (0.38%) and insurance (0.06%); while banks and financial services gained 0.15% and consumer goods and services 0.04%.As many as 10 stocks gained, while 37 declined and four were unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included Ezdan, Qatar Electricity and Water, Inma Holding, Ahlibank Qatar, Estithmar Holding, Alijarah Holding, Dlala, Qatar German Medical Devices, Widam Food, Ooredoo, Vodafone Qatar and Nakilat.Nevertheless, QLM, Qatar Islamic Bank, Zad Holding, Doha Bank, Qamco and Barwa were among the gainers in the main bourse.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.22mn compared with net buyers of QR9.81mn on October 26.The Gulf institutions were net profit takers to the extent of QR9.1mn against net buyers of QR2.8mn the previous day.However, the local individual investors’ net buying increased substantially to QR12.08mn compared to QR0.67mn on Sunday.The Arab retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR4.13mn against net profit takers of QR3.18mn on October 26.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR2.49mn compared to QR1.16mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR2.19mn against net sellers of QR0.21mn on Sunday.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking weakened significantly to QR0.57mn compared to QR11.05mn on October 26.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second straight session.The main market saw 2% contraction in trade volumes to 99.02mn shares but on 32% surge in value to QR286.47mn and 69% in deals to 18,608.In the venture market, a total of 360 equities valued at QR824 changed hands across one transaction.

The Qatar Stock Exchange today opened the week on a stronger note with its key index gaining more than 35 points, reflecting the optimism in the market due to the US rate cut hopes.The real estate, industrials, consumer goods and telecom counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.32% to 10,912.44 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,873 points.The local retail investors turned net buyers, albeit at lower levels, in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 3.23%.About 56% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR3.14bn or 0.48% to QR653.74bn, mainly on small cap segments.The foreign funds continued to be bullish but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 0.02mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn trade across six deals.The domestic institutions were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The Islamic index was seen outperforming the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab individuals were increasingly bearish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.32%, the All Share Index by 0.27% and the All Islamic Index by 0.46% in the main market.The realty sector index shot up 0.98%, industrials (0.85%), consumer goods and services (0.68%), telecom (0.44%), transport (0.26%) and insurance (0.21%); while banks and financial services were down 0.03%.As many as 29 stocks gained, while 21 declined and two were unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Qatar General Medical Devices, Ezdan, QLM, Widam Food, Industries Qatar, Salam International Investment, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Aamal Company. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Qatar Oman Investment, Doha Bank and Medicare Group were among the shakers in the main market.The local individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.67mn compared with net sellers of QR17.17mn last Thursday.However, the domestic institutions’ net selling expanded perceptibly to QR11.05mn against QR8.78mn on October 23.The Arab retail investors’ net profit booking increased noticeably to QR3.18mn compared to QR0.58mn the previous trading day.The foreign individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR0.21mn against net buyers of QR1.56mn last Thursday.The foreign institutions’ net buying decreased significantly to QR9.81mn compared to QR16.02mn on October 23.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened noticeably to QR2.8mn against QR7.67mn the previous trading day.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying eased marginally to QR1.16mn compared to QR1.25mn last Thursday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn on October 23.The main market saw an 8% contraction in trade volumes to 101.4mn shares, 31% in value to QR216.94mn and 55% in deals to 10,986.In the venture market, a total of 0.05mn equities valued at QR0.12mn changed hands across 19 transactions.(Ends)

Qatar needs national innovation talent scorecard: Startup consultant reportA National Innovation Talent Scorecard and a centralised internship placement scheme for innovation firms and research centres are among the suggestions made to close the “growing” innovation talent “gap” in Qatar, according to a research report.Qatar stands at a "pivotal inflection" point as it has invested deeply in infrastructure, policy, and institutional programmes to prepare for a knowledge-based economy; but strategically aligned innovation talent pipeline remains incomplete, said an article prepared by Rayane Fodil, an innovation strategist and a startup consultant.Analysing more than 20 national datasets and institutional sources to forecast Qatar’s innovation talent supply and demand between 2025 and 2030; she said "Qatar faces a growing innovation talent gap, one that could reach 1,200 missing hires per year by 2030 if current trends continue."Highlighting that the scale of Qatar's innovation talent challenge becomes clear when examining supply and demand projections through 2030; the report said under current trends, Qatar's universities will produce approximately 1,800 innovation-aligned graduates annually by 2030, while sectoral demand will reach 3,000 positions per year."This creates a growing talent shortage that could reach 1,200 missing hires annually by 2030 without intervention," it added.Through targeted policy interventions, including curriculum realignment, expanded internship programmes, and retention mechanisms for non-Qatari graduates, Qatar can completely close the talent gap by 2030, it said, adding "the critical intervention window is 2025-28, requiring immediate coordinated action across education and employment policy."Stressing that the shortfall is not merely a workforce issue; she said it is a "strategic bottleneck" that directly affects the national diversification goals, the realisation of Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council's 2030 priorities, and the broader ambition to localise critical capabilities across sectors.Under an ambitious but realistic scenario, where targeted talent initiatives are scaled, internships in innovation firms become the norm, and universities align outputs with national economic needs."Qatar could fully close this gap by 2028 and become a net producer of innovation talent by 2030," the report said, finding that Qatari youth aged 18–24 will grow modestly, but participation in high-demand innovation fields remains low.Innovation-aligned graduates (both Qatari and non-Qatari) currently number around 1,500 per year, short of the 2,300–3,000 needed annually by 2025–2030, it said.Highlighting that national internship and placement schemes remain limited in scope, with fewer than 500 students annually gaining exposure to real innovation work; it said without intervention, talent retention; particularly among high-performing non-Qataris will continue to lag due to unclear career pathways post-graduation.Outlining three strategic levers Qatar must activate by 2027; it suggested aligning education funding models with innovation-aligned output KPIs (key performance indicators).The report recommended establishing a centralised national internship placement scheme for innovation firms and research centres and launching a National Innovation Talent Scorecard to unify university, government, and private sector efforts."With aligned, measurable, and sustained action across education, labour, and innovation policy, Qatar can become a global benchmark for smart, inclusive innovation talent strategy," the research report said.Current graduation patterns in engineering, ICT, and entrepreneurship fall "significantly" short of projected demand; it said, adding under an ambitious scenario, innovation-aligned graduate output could increase 165% by 2030, driven primarily by expanded enrolment in engineering, ICT, and design programmes.

Oil price strength imparts bullish momentum to QSE; Gulf and foreign funds resort to buying; M-cap adds QR1.31bnOil price strength had its positive reverberation in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which closed this week on a higher note, mainly on Gulf institutions’ stronger buying support.The industrials, transport and consumer goods counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.24% this week which saw Qatar Islamic Bank report net profit of QR3.46bn in the first nine months (9M) of 2025.The foreign funds were seen net buyers in the main bourse this week which saw Aamal Company report net profit of QR327.27mn in 9M-2025.The Gulf individuals’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main market this week which saw Baladna’s January-September net profit at QR381.35mn.The domestic institutions’ lower net profit booking had its marginal impact on the main bourse this week which saw United Development Company report net profit of QR222mn in third quarter ended September 2025.The foreign retail investors continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market this week which saw Lesha Bank report a net profit of QR140.1mn in 9M-2025.The Arab individuals also continued to be bullish but with lesser vigour in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.42mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.96mn trade across 97 deals.The local retail investors turned net profit takers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.02mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.22mn trade across 21 deals.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation added QR1.31bn or 0.2% to QR650.6bn on the back of small and microcap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease in the main and junior markets this week which saw the realty, industrials and consumer goods sectors together constitute about 77% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index rose 0.24%, the All Share Index by 0.2% and the All Islamic Index by 0.03% this week which saw Mannai Corporation achieve a group net profit of QR101mn in January-September 2025.The industrials sector gained 0.78%, transport (0.69%), consumer goods and services (0.39%) and banks and financial services (0.04%); while real estate declined 1.2%, insurance (0.29%) and telecom (0.02%) this week which saw Doha Bank and PayTabs enter into strategic partnership to empower Qatar’s digital commerce sector.The market was however skewed towards shakers with as many as 27 constituents reporting declines, while 22 gained and four were unchanged this week which saw Aamal Company commence negotiations to sell its subsidiary, IMO Qatar to an associate, Frijns for Steel Structures Middle East Qatar.Major movers in the main market included Meeza, QLM, Salam International Investment, Dlala, Qamco, Ahlibank Qatar, Industries Qatar, Inma Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Qatar Electricity and Water, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Nakilat this week.Nevertheless, about 51% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Qatar German Medical Devices, Aamal Company, Qatar Insurance, United Development Company, Mekdam Holding, Estithmar Holding, Barwa and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased drastically to QR36.59mn compared to QR1.47mn the week ended October 16.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR32.94mn against net sellers of QR33.92mn the previous week.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking weakened noticeably to QR6.35mn compared to QR10.64mn a week ago.The domestic institutions’ net selling eased marginally to QR5.12mn against QR5.3mn the week ended October 16.However, the Qatari individuals turned net sellers to the extent of QR63.59mn compared with net buyers of QR24.8mn previous week.The foreign individual investors’ net buying declined perceptibly to QR5.17mn against QR10.86mn a week ago.The Arab individuals’ net buying shrank considerably to QR0.33mn compared to QR11.46mn the week ended October 16.The Arab institutions’ net buying shrank markedly to QR0.02mn against QR1.28mn the previous week.The main market saw 10% contraction in trade volumes to 590.41mn shares, 20% in value to QR1.45bn and 8% in deals to 94,311 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes tanked 59% to 0.36mn equities, value by 60% to QR0.85mn and transactions by 38% to 128.(Ends)

Sustaining the bullish run for the third straight session, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today rose as much as 27 points, reflecting the positive momentum in the global markets in view of oil price strength.The transport and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.25% to 10,877.05 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,838 points.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 2.89%.About 60% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.1bn or 0.17% to QR650.6bn, mainly on microcap segments.The Arab funds were seen bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main market, which saw as many as 0.02mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.18mn trade across 15 deals.The local retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab individuals’ lower net profit booking had its marginal impact on the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.25% and the All Share Index by 0.2%, while the All Islamic Index was down 0.02% in the main market.The transport sector index shot up 1.19%, insurance (0.58%), banks and financial services (0.19%) and industrials (0.13%); whereas consumer goods and services declined 0.35%, real estate (0.19%) and telecom (0.17%).As many as 31 stocks gained, while 20 declined and one was unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Inma Holding, Commercial Bank, Qatar Oman Investment, Salam International Investment, Dlala, Mannai Corporation, Meeza, Gulf International Services and Nakilat.Nevertheless, Woqod, Baladna, Gulf Warehousing, Vodafone Qatar, Mazaya Qatar, Barwa and Qatar Electricity and Water were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased noticeably to QR7.67mn compared to QR3.2mn the previous day.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn against no major net exposure on October 22.The local retail investors’ net selling weakened markedly to QR17.17mn compared to QR24.34mn on Wednesday.The Arab individual investors’ net selling shrank perceptibly to QR0.58mn against QR1.18mn the previous day.However, the domestic institutions’ net selling expanded significantly to QR8.78mn compared to QR5.98mn on October 22.The foreign institutions’ net buying decreased notably to QR16.02mn against QR23.34mn on Wednesday.The foreign individuals’ net buying declined markedly to QR1.56mn compared to QR2.56mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying eased significantly to QR1.25mn against QR2.4mn on October 22.The main market saw a 10% contraction in trade volumes to 110.01mn shares but on less than 1% jump in value to QR313.76mn and 18% in deals to 24,351.In the venture market, a total of 0.06mn equities valued at QR0.14mn changed hands across 23 transactions.

Doha's healthcare expenditure is slated to touch $13bn by 2030, showing a 14% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and molecular diagnostics market is to reach $19.2mn by 2030, at a 4.4% CAGR, as the country shows a "solid" growth potential for the biotechnology sector, according to Invest Qatar.Estimating healthcare expenditure to rise from $6bn in 2024 to $13bn by 2030; Invest Qatar said healthcare expenditure in Qatar is vital for the biotech sector as it supports research, innovation and the development of advanced medical solutions.Highlighting that molecular diagnostics is a powerful engine for biotech sector growth because it directly links scientific innovation to clinical impact; the report said it is expected to reach $19.2mn by 2030 in Qatar.Qatar’s drug market is poised for growth with strong efforts put in place to expand local production, it said, forecasting 3.1% CAGR to $1.8bn between 2024 and 2030."Pharmaceutical demand drives biotech growth by creating a need for advanced therapies, precision medicine and bio-manufacturing solutions that traditional drugs alone cannot fulfill," it said.In the case of Medtech, Invest Qatar report said it is expected to show a 5.6% CAGR between 2024 and 2030 to touch $332mn."Medtech fuels biotech by enabling research, diagnostics and advanced treatment delivery. Qatar's Medtech sector is growing rapidly, driven by expanding medical devices and implants markets," it said.Stressing that four factors drive Qatar's biotechnology sector; it said long-term national development plans prioritise science and technology as key pillars for future growth. Financial incentives and favourable business regulations are attracting both local and international investors to the biotech sector in Qatar, it added.Another aspect was innovation and global partnerships as collaborations with international institutions and firms are enhancing local capabilities and technology transfer.Stressing about talent ecosystem; the report said Qatar’s emphasis on knowledge-based industries is accelerating biotech progress supported by a high-quality talent pool.The fourth angle was infrastructure development as expanding healthcare and research facilities, labs and industrial zones are providing the physical foundation needed for biotech activities, it said.Qatar's biotechnology sector is experiencing "significant" growth, bolstered by strategic global partnerships that enhance local capabilities and facilitate technology transfer; it said.Qatar Biomedical research Institute partners with both key local entities and international entities including – the King Hussein Cancer Centre, the University College of London, the Silverstein Foundation, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Sultan Qaboos University, Cleveland Clinic Foundation and Lundbeck – to advance biomedical research, it highlighted.Qatar has launched an investment package worth QR20bn to support investments in biotechnology, artificial intelligence and future technologies, in parallel with stimulating joint investments with venture capital firms and promoting public-private partnerships.The country has been fostering its biotechnology sector through strategic collaborations facilitated by key entities such as the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ).QSTP supports biotech firms like Prorenata Biotech, GPTBots.ai and GE Healthcare to drive innovation and QFZ partners with BIOCAD and Evonik to boost biotech manufacturing and R&D (research and development) in Qatar.Elaborating on the infrastructure development, it said Qatar Precision Health Institute -- an umbrella entity that brings together existing strengths in health sciences and genomics within Qatar Foundation’s Qatar Biobank and Qatar Genome Programme -- has supported 508 projects involving hundreds of researchers from 20 healthcare institutions in Qatar.(Ends)

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today sustained bullish run for the second straight session as its key index gained more than 28 points on the back of foreign funds’ buying interests.The consumer goods and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,850.33 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,784 points.The foreign individuals were seen net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 2.64%.About 51% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.52bn or 0.23% to QR649.5bn, mainly on small and microcap segments.The Gulf retail investors were increasingly bullish in the main market, which saw as many as 0.03mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.08mn trade across 10 deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The local individuals were seen increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.26%, the All Islamic Index by 0.22% and the All Share Index by 0.21% in the main market.The consumer goods and sector index gained 0.78%, industrials (0.68%), banks and financial services (0.15%) and telecom (0.01%); while transport declined 0.49%, real estate (0.32%) and insurance (0.25%).As many as 27 stocks gained, while 21 declined and five were unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Meeza, QLM, Medicare Group, Qatar National Cement, Commercial Bank, Inma Holding, Woqod, Industries Qatar, Gulf International Services, Qatar Electricity and Water and Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Qatari Investors Group, Milaha, Al Mahhar Holding and Barwa were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR23.34mn compared to QR5.47mn the previous day.The foreign individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.56mn against net sellers of QR1.03mn on October 21.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying expanded significantly to QR2.4mn compared to QR0.32mn on Tuesday.However, the local retail investors’ net selling strengthened noticeably to QR24.34mn against QR15.59mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR5.98mn compared with net buyers of QR4.03mn on October 21.The Arab individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.18mn against net buyers of QR2.88mn on Tuesday.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined marginally to QR3.2mn compared to QR3.93mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth consecutive day.The main market saw an 11% contraction in trade volumes to 122.05mn shares but on 12% jump in value to QR313.21mn and 20% in deals to 20,699.In the venture market, a total of 0.15mn equities valued at QR0.35mn changed hands across 45 transactions.

Qatar and the UK today explored opportunities for joint cooperation and knowledge exchange to strengthen the international efforts in combating terrorism financing.This was underscored by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Assistant Governor for Supervision Hamad Ahmad al-Mulla in his opening remarks at the workshop on combating terrorism financing, organised by the National Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Committee (NAMLC), in cooperation with the British Embassy, Doha.The NAMLC assumes a prominent role in coordinating between various State authorities concerned with combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing; communicates and cooperates with regional and international peers to unify anti-money laundering efforts.He said the workshop serves as a valuable opportunity for national entities to enhance their acquisition of best practices used in the UK and to establish direct communication channels with their counterparts there, contributing to the development of national policies and procedures, improving the efficiency of work teams, and enhancing coordination among various concerned bodies.The workshop discussed several important topics, including the nature of threats and general trends in terrorism financing, public-private partnership models, joint prosecutions and investigations, the role of law enforcement authorities and regulatory bodies in combating terrorism financing, as well as the UK's global strategy and approach to international sanctions, in addition to the use of crypto assets and crowdfunding as potential tools for illicit financing.Alastair Totty, Director of the Counter-Terrorism Department in the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, highlighted the cooperation with the Qatari side in combating terrorism financing, pointing to the importance of exchanging expertise between both parties.The UK "is firmly committed to disrupting terrorism financing, with its current focus within the UK is on detecting and preventing self-financing and the misuse of legitimate sectors, whereas its focus internationally is on targeting the financial infrastructure that supports major terrorist organisations", he said."The UK is working on updating its international counter-terrorism strategy to ensure its integration with the broader counter-terrorism strategy," he added.Highlighting that the use of new technologies continues to challenge traditional detection and disruption tools like Bitcoin; he said this evolution means the response also needs to adapt."We will work more closely with our priority countries across regions, notably the Gulf, East Africa, South and Southeast Asia. The foreign office, alongside the home office, Ministry of Defence and the UK intelligence agencies will continue to coordinate our efforts to disrupt these networks and strengthen our partners' capabilities," according to him.

Reflecting the ease in the US-China trade tensions, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today gained more than 13 points despite the market skewed towards shakers.The foreign funds were seen bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.12% to 10,821.85 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,793 points.The domestic institutions turned net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 2.37%.The Gulf individuals were seen bullish in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR0.85bn or 0.13% to QR647.98bn, mainly on microcap segments.The telecom, insurance and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, which saw as many as 0.33mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.74mn trade across 53 deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen gaining on par with the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab retail investors continued to be bullish but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.12%, the All Islamic Index by 0.12% and the All Share Index by 0.14% in the main market.The telecom sector index shot up 1%, insurance (0.58%), banks and financial services (0.26%) and consumer goods and services (0.11%); while real estate declined 1.04%, transport (0.2%) and industrials (0.17%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 27 declined and three were unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Medicare Group, QIIB, Ooredoo, Estithmar Holding, Salam International Investment, Industries Qatar and Vodafone Qatar.Nevertheless, about 52% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Qamco, Commercial Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Aamal Company, Gulf International Services, Mannai Corporation, Inma Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Widam Food, Al Mahhar Holding, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Mazaya Qatar, Ezdan, United Development Company, Nakilat and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR5.47mn compared with net sellers of QR12.1mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR4.03mn against net sellers of QR0.52mn on October 20.The Gulf retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.32mn compared with net sellers of QR5.1mn on Monday.However, the local retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR15.59mn against net buyers of QR4.41mn the previous day.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.03mn compared with net buyers of QR0.19mn on October 20.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined noticeably to QR3.93mn against QR7.49mn on Monday.The Arab individual investors’ net buying shrank markedly to QR2.88mn compared to QR5.62mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the third consecutive day.The main market saw an 11% jump in trade volumes to 136.86mn shares but on 7% fall in value to QR279.6mn and 2% in deals to 17,259.In the venture market, a total of 0.07mn equities valued at QR0.15mn changed hands across 22 transactions.

The second cycle of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology's (MCIT) Scale Now – a growth programme designed to equip Qatar’s digital entrepreneurs achieve success on local, regional, and global levels and featuring as many as 13 high-potential firms from Qatar and beyond – is scheduled to conclude on November 15, 2025.The Cycle 2 – currently in the capacity building phase, with pilot and expansion plans in progress – has entities driving innovation across AI (artificial intelligence), Healthtech, EdTech, Gaming, Cybersecurity, ERP (enterprise resource planning), Retail, and Sustainability; said MCIT in a presentation made recently.The Cycle 2 has two AI companies Bilby, which provides AI-driven data analytics that evaluate public statements to predict future behaviour; and Khadoom, an on-demand AI-powered personal assistant platform that helps users outsource daily errands through messaging apps.It saw SEK Games, a Turkish game development studio specialising in free-to-play mobile games in the idle, arcade, and simulation genres; Adeer, offering a business management app that simplifies sales, inventory, finance, and tax operations for small and micro businesses; and ENABLE, providing an AI-driven retail platform that boosts revenue through customer loyalty and operational optimisation.On Cybersecurity, Cytomate delivers automated threat assessment and cyber defence solutions that reduce human error and enhance protection.The Cycle 2 has two Edtech firms as Ynmo, which offers a bilingual AI-powered platform that helps educators create personalised learning plans for children with disabilities; and Kamkalima, which develops Arabic literacy through interactive learning tools, AI features, and a comprehensive digital content library.The Cycle 2 has four Healthtech firms as Rhazes, providing a generative AI clinical assistant that supports doctors with real-time patient care guidance; and Dieture, offering a personalised meal subscription service that delivers customised, health-focused meals.It also had PhysioHome, connecting patients with licensed rehabilitation professionals for home-based therapy and care; and Shezlong, operating a secure mental health and psychotherapy platform for Arabic-speaking users in the Middle East and North Africa.On environment and sustainability, the Cycle 2 has Nafas, which offers AI-driven air quality management through hardware-as-a-service, helping buildings maintain healthy indoor environments efficiently.The Cycle 2 companies are currently participating in an intensive capability-building phase, combining specialised mentorship with targeted business acceleration.This phase focuses on four core areas such as Strategy, which encompasses growth mapping, market positioning, and competitive differentiation; Product (product-market fit, feature refinement, and scalability engineering); Operations (key performance indicators alignment, process efficiency, and resource optimisation), and Finance (forecasting, capital structure, and investor readiness).The programme’s capability modules turn ambition into execution, equipping founders not just to grow, but to lead sustainably."Following the capability-building stage, Cycle 2 will progress into pilot development and regional expansion planning, partnering with local enterprises and government entities to co-develop solutions, validate business models, and prepare companies for global scale," MCIT said.The Cycle 1 brought together six market-ready companies delivering solutions from digital payments and marketplaces to airport operations and immersive media.It saw Mzad Qatar, providing a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform that connects buyers and sellers; SkipCash, enabling businesses to implement secure online payment solutions through a streamlined digital platform; and EMMA Systems, delivering airport software that improves operational efficiency and data management.The Cycle 1 also saw ADGS, offering behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance powered by proprietary AI models; SPONIX, providing immersive video solutions and virtual advertising that enable engaging real-time content during live events; and ClassTap, offering flexible access to more than 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription platform.

Mirroring the trends in the regional markets due to weak oil prices, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today continued bearish run for the second straight session as its key index fell about 29 points.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.26% to 10,808.5 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,855 points.The domestic institutions turned bearish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 2.25%.About 58% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation shed QR2.17bn or 0.33% to QR647.13bn, mainly dragged by small cap segments.The insurance, telecom and industrials counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure in the main market, which saw as many as 0.06mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.14mn trade across 26 deals.The Gulf institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The foreign retail investors’ lower net buying had its marginal impact on the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.26%, the All Islamic Index by 0.23% and the All Share Index by 0.25% in the main market.The insurance sector index tanked 1.24%, telecom (0.77%), industrials (0.42%), banks and financial services (0.15%), transport (0.09%) and real estate (0.01%); while consumer goods and services were up 0.08%.As many as 17 stocks gained, while 30 declined and five were unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included QLM, Qatar Insurance, Ezdan, Qatar German Medical Devices, QIIB, Medicare Group, Industries Qatar, Gulf International Services, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Electricity and Water, Aamal Company, Estithmar Holding, Ooredoo and Nakilat.Nevertheless, Qamco, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Mazaya Qatar, Vodafone Qatar, Barwa and Meeza were among the gainers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR12.1mn compared with net buyers of QR0.21mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR0.52mn against net buyers of QR6.14mn on October 19.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined noticeably to QR7.49mn compared to QR14.3mn on Sunday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying weakened perceptibly to QR0.19mn against QR1.87mn the previous day.However, the Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR5.62mn compared with net sellers of QR6.41mn on October 19.The local individual investors were net buyers to the extent of QR4.41mn against net sellers of QR10.9mn on Sunday.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR5.1mn compared to QR5.21mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second consecutive day.The main market saw 26% jump in trade volumes to 123.39mn shares, 25% in value to QR301.7mn and 21% in deals to 17,540.In the venture market, a total of 0.07mn equities valued at QR0.18mn changed hands across 32 transactions.