Gulf markets rise as investors assess Iran war, shipping risks

Gulf markets saw an overall rise on Wednesday, as investors weighed the potential for a lull in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran against concerns over shipping risks in the Strait of Hormuz. While signs of de-escalation helped, recent attacks on tankers and energy infrastructure in the region raised doubts about the stability of these markets.

Saudi Arabia's main index recovered from early losses, ending 1.4% higher, with the oil giant Saudi Aramco leading the charge by climbing 1.6%. Ranim Turfa, head of research and market analysis at MENA at Tickmill, noted that "Most Gulf markets inched up as investors assessed ongoing security risks and watched for progress in regional mediation efforts. While some headway was evident, worries about renewed escalation persisted."

The caution remained in the air, with sentiment tempered by the ongoing dangers to energy flows through critical shipping routes. Attention was focused on any credible diplomatic progress. Elsewhere, Abdullah Al Othaim Markets Co surged 7.1%, after the supermarket chain reported a smaller quarterly loss than the previous quarter. However, Advanced Building Industries Co saw a sharp drop of 6.5%, following a significant decline in third-quarter profits.

Dubai's main share index climbed 0.8% and the top lender Emirates NBD rose 4.3%. In Abu Dhabi, the index edged up 0.3%. The Qatari index, however, slipped 0.5%, pressured by a 1.4% drop in petrochemical maker Industries Qatar.

Outside the Gulf, Egypt's top index ended the day flat, with Eastern Company, the state-owned tobacco monopoly, jumping 4.2% after reporting a sharp increase in third-quarter profits. Meanwhile, regional markets saw gains after the Saudi-led coalition reportedly intercepted two missiles fired by the Houthis at Riyadh. The alerts led to civil defense alerts in the capital and southern cities of Abha and Khamis Mushait, though authorities later declared the threat had passed.