QNB advances regional capital markets connectivity at Oman forum

At the Network Forum Middle East 2026 in Oman, QNB Group emphasized its role in advancing regional capital market connectivity. The forum gathered financial institutions, exchanges, central asset managers, and other market players to discuss developments in the region's capital markets and post-trade landscape. Key topics included improving market access, attracting international investment, and enhancing digital innovation.

Discussions stressed the importance of ensuring that market reforms provide tangible benefits for investors. While progress has been made in enhancing access and modernizing systems, challenges persist in simplifying investment processes and enabling more efficient border-crossing transactions. These insights underscore the need for enhanced collaboration between financial institutions and market participants to boost regional market growth.

QNB Group's strategy aligns with this goal, combining local market insights with global capabilities to assist clients in multiple jurisdictions. The Group's custody and securities services cater to global custodians, financial entities, asset managers, and government bodies, aiding in facilitating investment opportunities across the region.

Oman holds a significant place in this regional connectivity. With a long-standing presence in the Sultanate since 2007, QNB Oman offers corporate banking, trade finance, cash management, and treasury solutions that support both local businesses and institutional clients. The forum's emphasis on market modernization was especially pertinent to Oman, given its recent shift to a T+2 settlement cycle in September 2026.

Leveraging its local presence and international network, QNB Oman facilitates trade, investment, and financial activities between the Sultanate and both regional and global markets.

The Group's recent strategic partnership with State Street further underscores its dedication to advancing custody services and deepening international investor connectivity. This collaboration aims to create a new custody servicing model in Qatar, merging QNB's regional expertise with State Street's global reach. This approach reflects a broader industry priority highlighted at the forum: merging local market access with international service expertise to streamline investment flows and bolster market accessibility.

Speaking on the significance of regional market development, Abdulla Hashim Al-Sada, Senior Executive Vice President for Group Asset and Wealth Management at QNB Group, stated, "As capital markets across the region continue to evolve, their ability to attract international investment will increasingly hinge on the strength of the infrastructure and services that link investors to opportunities.

Robust custody infrastructure, efficient post-trade services, and streamlined cross-border connectivity are crucial for bolstering confidence in regional markets and enhancing their international competitiveness." At QNB Group, we leverage our deep regional market knowledge, institutional banking expertise, extensive international network, and strategic alliances to meet the growing demands of institutional investors.

Through these strengths, we aim to enhance cross-border investment, promote capital market development, and generate long-term value for our clients."