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The Qatar Stock Exchange on Sunday opened the week weak with its key index losing as much as 16 points on selling pressure, especially at the banks and industrials counters.The local retail investors hurriedly squared off their position as the 20-stock Qatar Index fell 0.15% to 10,493.3 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,530 points.The foreign individuals were increasingly net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 3.11%.About 53% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation however saw QR0.75bn or 0.12% gain to QR616.83bn on the back of microcap segments.The foreign institutions were seen increasingly bearish in the main market, which saw 0.08mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.19mn trade across 23 deals.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Gulf institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The domestic funds were increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index was down 0.15%, the All Islamic Index by 0.06% and the All Share Index by 0.05% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index declined 0.24% and industrials 0.23%; while insurance gained 1.45%, real estate (0.73%), telecom (0.36%), consumer goods and services (0.16%) and transport (0.11%).Major shakers in the main bourse included Al Faleh Educational Holding, Beema, Qatar German Medical Devices, Estithmar Holding, Doha Bank, Qatari Investors Group and Industries Qatar.In the venture market, Al Mahhar Holding saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Ezdan, Zad Holding, Dlala and Qatar Insurance were among the gainers in the main bourse.In the junior market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.The Qatari individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR41.87mn compared with net buyers of QR2.11mn on October 10.The foreign individuals’ net selling increased marginally to QR12.59mn against QR11.8mn the previous trading day.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking strengthened perceptibly to QR5.36mn compared to QR4.31mn last Thursday.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened noticeably to QR1.83mn against QR2.74mn on October 10.However, the domestic funds’ net buying rose substantially to QR50.45mn compared to QR15.59mn the previous trading day.The Arab individuals were net buyers to the extent of QR6.85mn against net sellers of QR4.8mn last Thursday.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying grew marginally to QR0.68mn compared to QR0.46mn on October 10.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth straight session.Trade volumes in the main market grew 26% to 127.71mn shares, while value was down 1% to QR250.06mn and transactions by 22% to 7,985.In the venture market, trade volumes almost tripled to 0.14mn equities and value also almost tripled to QR0.46mn on a 70% surge in deals to 34.

Qatar registered a robust double-digit year-year-on-year growth in tourists’ inflow – especially from the Americas, Europe and Gulf regions this August; as its hospitality sector saw improved room yield, particularly in the four-star hotels and deluxe hotel apartment categories, according to the official estimates.The occupancy comes amidst 328,059 visitor arrivals in August 2024. On a yearly basis, the total inflow of visitors rose 24.5% and 3.3% year-on-year and month-on-month respectively in the review period, according to the National Planning Council (NPC).The visitors from the Gulf Co-operation Council or GCC were 133,319 or 41% of the total, Europe 70,600 (22%), other Asia (including Oceania) 65,634 (20%), Americas 28,219 (9%), other Arab countries 22,163 (7%), and other African countries 8,124 (2%) in August 2024.On an annualised basis, the visitor arrivals from the Americas surged 56.5%, Europe by 45%, other African countries by 38.9% and the GCC by 18.4%; while those from other Arab countries declined 29.8% and other Asia, including Oceania by 7.2% in the review period.On a month-on-month basis, the visitor arrivals from Europe shot up 29.7%, Americas by 23.3%, other African countries by 18.9% and other Arab countries by 8.7%; whereas those from the GCC were down 9.1% and other Asia, including Oceania, by 1.1% in August 2024.Qatar's hospitality sector saw a 3.64% year-on-year increase in revenue-per-available room to QR228 as occupancy improved by 7% to 60%, while average room rate fell by 8.7% to QR378 in August 2024.The four-star hotels saw a 13% higher occupancy to 63% and revenue per available room rose by 5.88% to QR126; whereas average room rate plunged 15.68% to QR199 in August 2024.The deluxe hotel apartments registered a 15% surge in occupancy to 70% and revenue per available room by 23.68% to QR235 although there was 2.89% shrinkage in average room rate to QR336 in the review period.However, the five-star hotels' room yield shrank 3.06% year-on-year to QR285 despite 4% rise in occupancy to 53% amid 8.74% contraction in average room rate to QR543 in the review period.The three-star hotels' occupancy shot up 6% to 77%; even as room yield was down 5.56% to QR119 and average room rate by 13.97% to QR154 in the review period.The two-star and one-star hotels' occupancy declined by 5% to 84%, room yield by 11.76% to QR120 and average room rate by 7.19% to QR142 in August 2024.In the case of standard hotel apartments, occupancy tanked 20% to 52%, room yield by 30.86% to QR112 and average room rate by 4% to QR216 in August 2024.

The Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority (QFCRA) has issued a warning to investors and the public about a fraudulent website operating under the domain “www.aaqinvestment.com”. This website falsely advertises financial services such as loans, banking products, and investments, and falsely represents itself as the official website of AAQ Investment, operating under the domain “https://aaqholding.com”, a legitimate licensed firm in the QFC. Despite claims on this fraudulent website that it is a Qatari company; the website has no connection to AAQ Investment, the QFC or Qatar. "The QFCRA advises the public to disregard this website, avoid clicking on any links, and refrain from providing any personal information," it said. AAQ Investment has no association with this website and does not provide financial services to the public. AAQ Investment is only licensed by the QFC Authority to provide the business of holding companies. The QFCRA strongly cautions against interacting with the representatives listed on “www.aaqinvestment.com” for financial services or with anyone claiming to offer financial services on behalf of AAQ Investment. “The QFCRA is committed to safeguarding consumers and takes every necessary action to combat fraudulent entities targeting investors and the public. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and always verify the identity of financial services firms and their representatives before engaging with them,” said Farah al-Muftah, Managing Director at the QFCRA. The QFCRA is an independent regulatory body established in 2005 by Article 8 of the QFC Law. It regulates firms that conduct financial services in or from the QFC. It has a broad range of regulatory powers to authorise, supervise and, when necessary, discipline firms and individuals. The QFCRA regulates firms using principle-based legislation of international standard, modelled closely on that used in major financial centres.

Qatar's venture capital (VC) ecosystem's outlook is "positive" this year and Qatar Sportstech Accelerator has invested as much as $40,000 to $250,000 in several startups at the seed and pre-seed stages, according to Pulsar VC, an international platform that supports entrepreneurs and investors to grow global technology leaders."Expectations for 2024 are more positive, especially with the launch of Qatar's first VC fund of $1bn, aimed at energising the regional startup scene," Pulsar VC said in its latest report.This fund plans to invest mostly through other VC funds while also engaging in select co-investments with those funds, it said, adding the country also introduced its Startup Qatar Investment Programme, supported by a $100mn fund managed by the Qatar Development Bank, further boosting the entrepreneurial environment.The Qatar Business Incubation Center and the QDB emerged as the most prominent investors of the year, actively participating in deals throughout 2023, it said, highlighting that the year also marked the debut of Rasmal Ventures, the first independent VC firm in Qatar.The country's biggest funding rounds in 2023 included Snnonu, which raised $12mn; else ($4.1mn); AT-HOME-DOC ($1.9mn); C-Wallet ($1.1mn); and Muallemi ($0.55mn), the report said, adding of the 2023 funding rounds, 37% went ton manufacturing, 15% to fintech or financial technology and 12% in healthcare.Terming 2023 as a "difficult" year for Qatar’s startup ecosystem with it experiencing the lowest venture investments in terms of deal numbers seen in the past four years; it said the 61% decline in Qatar reflects wider patterns as the Middle East and North Africa or Mena region saw a 23% drop in investment and the global VC environment faced a 42% reduction.Highlighting that Qatar's sports industry has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly as the host of 2022 FIFA World Cup, and is slated to reach a market size of $3.7bn by 2025; Pulsar said the country has introduced the regional first sports business district 'Aspire Zone' aiming to bolster its position as a burgeoning international hub for sports business.According to the available deal information, the Qatar SportsTech accelerator has invested in several startups at the seed and pre-seed stages, with investments amounts ranging from $40,000 to $250,000.The accelerator has reportedly invested in Golazzos, a social platform for football sports predictions; Fancision, a blockchain-based app to engage and monetise football fans with trivias and minigames; and Classtap, a platform that provides access to multiple gyms through one membership.Qatar has been progressively building a more inviting business environment, striving to attract investors by aligning its commercial and tax systems with global standards such as those of the OECD or the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.The report said similar to its Gulf Co-operation Council or GCC partners, Qatar aims to broaden its economic base and investing in cutting-edge economic sectors.As much as 37% of VC is allocated to the industrial and manufacturing sector with fintech and healthtech following as the second and third most favoured areas for capital investment respectively, it added.Qatar has significantly enhanced its appeal to foreign investors by developing specialised zones such as the Qatar Financial Centre, Qatar Science and Technology Park and Qatar Media City, which offer beneficial tax and labour conditions. Additionally, through the foreign investment law, overseas investors can avoid the typical 49% ownership restriction and requirement for minimum capital in limited liability companies with foreign involvement has been eliminated."These improvements aim to so simplify business operations and make Qatar a more attractive investment destination," the report said.

Heightened geopolitical tensions in the region notwithstanding, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) was in the positive trajectory with its key index gaining as much as 44 points and capitalisation adding QR2.75bn this week.The domestic institutions were seen increasingly into net buying as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.42% this week which saw QNB report net profit of QR12.71bn in January-September 2024.The banking and transport counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main this week which saw Milaha win a long-term contract valued at QR792mn from North Oil Company.The Gulf institutions’ weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market this week which saw Gulf International Services’ subsidiary Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance plan to get listed on the local bourse.The Arab funds continued to be bet buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse this week which saw Qatar Steel, an Industries Qatar subsidiary, receive a non-binding offer for the acquisition of its entire equity holding in Bahrain-based Foulath Holding.The foreign funds were seen increasingly bearish in the main market this week, which saw Lesha Bank complete the acquisition of Bereke Bank in Kazakhstan.The local retail investors turned net profit takers in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.45mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.98mn trade across 115 deals.The foreign individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.01mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.06mn change hands across six transactions.The Gulf individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw the banking, consumer goods and industrials sectors together constitute more than 73% of the total trade volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices in the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation added 0.45% to QR616.08bn on the back of small and microcap segments this week, which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decline in the main market this week, which saw Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC), in cooperation and Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation, plan to build, own and operate peak units with a production capacity of 500 megawatts.The Total Return Index gained 0.42% and the All Share Index by 0.51%, while the All Islamic Index fell 0.31% this week, which saw Ooredoo raise $500mn through its oversubscribed bonds.The banks and financial services sector index shot up 1.1%, transport (0.64%), industrials (0.17%) and insurance (0.09%); while real estate declined 1.76%, consumer goods and services (0.93%) and telecom (0.37%) this week which saw QNB commence its buyback scheme.Major gainers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Al Faleh Educational Holding, QIIB, QNB, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Lesha Bank, Baladna and Nakilat. In the junior bourse, Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares jump in value this week which saw Qatar Financial Centre view that a sustained growth in business conditions in Doha’s non-energy private sector led employment reach a record high in September 2024 as companies boost capacity.Nevertheless, about 61% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Qatar German Medical Devices, Medicare Group, Barwa, Al Khaleej Takaful, Vodafone Qatar, Masraf Al Rayan, Dukhan Bank, GIS, Estithmar Holding, Qamco, QLM and Mazaya Qatar this week.The domestic funds’ net buying increased substantially to QR156.01mn compared to QR57.77mn the week ended October 3.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking decreased substantially to QR5.09mn against QR36.62mn the previous week.However, the Qatari individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR65.98mn compared with net buyers of QR9.16mn a week ago.The foreign funds’ net selling strengthened considerably to QR49.95mn against QR11.83mn the week ended October 3.The Arab individuals’ net profit booking expanded markedly to QR17.54mn compared to QR7.76mn the previous week.The foreign individual investors’ net selling was up marginally to QR17.11mn against QR16.7mn a week ago.The Gulf retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR0.51mn compared with net buyers of QR4.54mn the week ended October 3.The Arab institutions’ net buying eased perceptibly to QR0.16mn against QR1.43mn the previous week.The main market witnessed a 12% contraction in trade volumes to 841.72mn shares, 12% in value to QR1.95bn and 9% in deals to 71,222 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes tanked 75% to 0.38mn equities, value by 70% to QR1.05mn and transactions by 45% to 32.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) on Tuesday entered the second day of bullish run with its key index gaining as much 61 points to cross the 10,500 levels and capitalisation add about QR5bn.A higher than average demand, especially at the transport, telecom, banks and real estate counters lifted the 20-stock Qatar Index 0.58% to 10,512.2 points, although it touched an intraday low of 10,440 points.The foreign institutions were seen net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated to 2.94%.More than 84% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR4.7bn or 0.77% to QR616.34bn on the back of midcap segments.The Gulf retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main market, which saw 0.05mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.11mn trade across 14 deals.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The local individuals’ substantially weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The domestic institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.58%, the All Islamic Index by 0.31% and the All Share Index by 0.73% in the main market.The transport sector index shot up 1.31%, telecom (1.29%), banks and financial services (0.98%), real estate (0.69%), insurance (0.34%) and industrials (0.07%); while consumer goods and services declined 0.05%.Major movers in the main bourse included Al Faleh Educational Holding, Inma Holding, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Gulf International Services, Qatari Investors Group, QNB, Doha Bank, Lesha Bank, Mazaya Qatar, United Development Company, Ooredoo and Nakilat.In the venture market, both Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Beema, Woqod, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qatar Islamic Bank and Industries Qatar were among the losers in the main market.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.55mn compared with net sellers of QR11.32mn on October 7.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying increased marginally to QR0.78mn against QR0.68mn the previous day.The Qatari retail investors’ net profit booking declined noticeably to QR25.11mn compared to QR34.59mn on Monday.The Gulf institutions’ net selling weakened perceptibly to QR2.28mn against QR11.32mn on October 7.However, the foreign individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR9.84mn compared with net buyers of QR1.02mn the previous day.The domestic institutions’ net buying declined drastically to QR29.55mn against QR46.62mn on Monday.The Arab individual investors’ net buying fell notably to QR4.34mn compared to QR8.73mn on October 7.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.16mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market were up less than 1% to 188.52mn shares, value by 2% to QR448.94mn and transactions by 7% to 17,443.In the venture market, trade volumes almost tripled to 0.08mn equities and value more than doubled to QR0.19mn on 67% jump in deals to 15.

Notwithstanding the rising geopolitical tensions in the region, the Qatar Stock Exchange on Monday gained more than 39 points on the back of buying interests, especially at the consumer goods, real estate and industrials counters.The Arab retail investors turned net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.38% to 10,451.34 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,379 points.The foreign individuals were seen bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated to 3.5%.More than 82% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR2.65bn or 0.44% to QR611.04bn on the back of small cap segments.The Arab institutions were seen net buyers in the main market, which saw 0.15mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.35mn trade across 37 deals.The Islamic index outperformed the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The foreign institutions’ weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf individuals were seen increasingly net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.38%, the All Islamic Index by 0.56% and the All Share Index by 0.36% in the main market.The consumer goods and services sector index shot up 1.44%, realty (1.12%), industrials (0.62%), telecom (0.36%), transport (0.28%) and banks and financial services (0.13%); while insurance declined 0.37%.Major movers in the main bourse included Al Faleh Educational Holding, Beema, Aamal Company, QLM, Alijarah Holding, QIIB, Lesha Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Salam International Investment, Woqod, Widam Food, Qamco, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Mazaya Qatar and Ezdan.In the venture market, techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar Insurance, Qatar National Cement, Doha Insurance, Qatar Islamic Bank and Dukhan Bank were among the losers in the main market.In the junior bourse, Al Mahhar Holding saw its shares depreciate in value.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR8.73mn compared with net sellers of QR22.43mn on October 6.The foreign retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR1.02mn against net sellers of QR1.63mn the previous day.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying increased marginally to QR0.68mn compared to QR0.29mn on Sunday.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.16mn against no major net exposure on October 6.The foreign institutions’ net selling decreased substantially to QR11.32mn compared to QR31.25mn the previous day.However, the Qatari retail investors’ net profit booking expanded significantly to QR34.59mn against QR10.89mn on Sunday.The Gulf institutions’ net selling strengthened noticeably to QR11.32mn compared to QR2.34mn on October 6.The domestic funds’ net buying weakened markedly to QR46.62mn against QR68.26mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market rose 11% to 187.84mn shares, value by 10% to QR440.92mn and transactions by 16% to 16,354.The venture market saw 25% contraction in trade volumes to 0.03mn equities and 10% in value to QR0.09mn but on 29% jump in deals to 9.

Senior officials of financial intelligence units, law enforcement and financial and non-financial regulatory bodies in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) gathered on Monday in Doha for the ninth edition of Mena Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) meeting in view of emerging threats, especially the violation, non-implementation or evasion of the application of targeted financial sanctions related to terrorist financing.Hamad Ahmed al-Mulla, Assistant Governor for Supervision at the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), inaugurated the four-day meeting, themed 'Typologies and Building Capacity Workshop', which falls within the framework of implementing the decisions of the 37th meeting of the MENAFATF in December 2023 in Nouakchott, Mauritania."Our countries face complex patterns of money laundering and terrorist financing, which undermine their governments' efforts to combat them, make the measures they take towards them less effective, and pose challenges that require applications to understand them," al-Mulla said in his opening address.Highlighting the need to exchange experiences for better understanding the various and advanced methods used to launder money, finance terrorism, and finance the proliferation of weapons, and to provide decision-makers and policy experts with practical information to develop strategies to combat these challenges and to be able to address them efficiently; he said the private sector, a key partner in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing, has also been involved to ensure the effective implementation of and adherence to international standards."We cannot overlook the role of civil society organisations, which play a significant and effective part in enhancing policies and practices to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. This also contributes to strengthening the safety and security of the global financial system,” he said.Essa al-Hardan, Secretary of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing in Qatar and Head of the Technical Assistance and Typologies Working Group at MENAFATF, said the application framework is based on the process of collecting and analysing information and individual case studies."As for capacity building, special emphasis will be placed on the importance of technology and data analysis systems in detecting money laundering and terrorist financing and on the role of civil society in enhancing the effectiveness of parallel financial investigations," he said.The National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing attaches utmost importance to this aspect in the context of implementing the measures recommended in Direct Outcome 5 of the Mutual Evaluation Report of Qatar issued in May 2023 and its ongoing work to align its legislation with the latest amendments to Recommendations 24 and 25 of the FATF recommendations, according to him.

Golden Gate Ventures' $100mn Mena Fund I, the first global venture capital fund to be established and managed within Qatar, is looking at investing in at least a dozen local entities as it finds potential, especially in B2B fintechs, according to its top official.The Mena (Middle East and North Africa) Fund 1, which is expected to be closed for subscription early next year, is aiming at robust double-digit returns to its investors, as has been the case with its Asia funds, its partner Michael Lints told Gulf Times in an interview.Referring to its maiden Mena Fund 1 for which $20mn came from bigwigs in Qatar, he said: "We are very much on track at the moment" (to hit the target).The first close of its $100mn Mena Fund I backed by the pillars of Qatar’s private business community represents a major step forward in Golden Gate Ventures’ ambitions to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.Al Khor Holding, Al Attiya Group and Sheikh Jassim bin Jabor al-Thani are the anchor investors for the fund, which has on-boarded a few of Golden Gate Ventures’ investors from its Asia funds.Asked about the present status of the fund, Lints said: “We are closing it early next year, but we are already investing from it (the fund)."The fund, which was unveiled at this year's Qatar Economic Forum, focuses on powering startups in key sectors such as alternative energy, green technology, B2B Artificial Intelligence, and energy-related deep tech. Other strategic sectors that the fund will cover include fintech, healthtech, and edtech, which will further Qatar’s economic diversification agenda.Appreciative of the supportive (Qatar) government and the willingness of family offices to cooperate and invest; he said: “It has become a very conducive environment to not only be here, but put capital to work and then starting to invest.”Golden Gate already has about nine companies (in its portfolio) that have expanded in the Mena region and two companies (from the portfolio) are now expanding in Qatar, according to him.Although it is seeing slightly less companies now, he said, adding the situation ought to improve over the next few years."We are looking (at) at least a dozen companies that are coming from Qatar itself," he said, adding the fund combines the aggregate regional influence of its investors and the deep startup ecosystem development experience of Golden Gate Ventures spanning Silicon Valley and Asia.Finding similarities in Mena and Southeast Asian regions; he said, "We do see a lot of opportunity. For us, it is a very natural expansion to be here in terms of the opportunity that we are seeing in the ecosystem."Asserting that the group was prudent on the investments it makes; Lint said, "We always have IRR target that sits between 20% and 30% on each fund. That translates to about a 3 to 4 (times) on the money that people invest in the fund."Asked within Mena region, which market it sees higher IRR potential; he said: "We want to be very evenly split across the market.""There is a lot of potential for deals in the Mena region. Being in Qatar, we spend a lot of time in developing the market here as well. So hopefully we will see a few good deals in our portfolio from here," he added.Highlighting that 10% of the fund will be invested in Qatar-grown startup companies; he said: "We are working very actively with the ecosystem here and trying to back those really good entrepreneurs."

The heightened geopolitical tensions continued to weaken sentiments as the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) on Sunday opened the week weak with its key index losing 53 points on an across the board selling pressure.The Arab retail investors were seen net sellers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.51% to 10,412.01 points, but recovering from an intraday low of 10,334 points.The real estate, consumer goods, insurance and industrials counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened to 3.87%.More than 86% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR4.34bn or 0.71% to QR608.99bn on the back of small and microcap segments.The local retail investors were seen net profit takers in the main market, which saw 0.16mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.36mn trade across 39 deals.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease.The foreign individual investors turned bearish in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the domestic institutions were increasingly into net buying in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index shed 0.51%, the All Islamic Index by 0.84% and the All Share Index by 0.62% in the main market.The realty sector index plummeted 2.26%, consumer goods and services (1.92%), insurance (1.19%), industrials (0.7%), banks and financial services (0.35%), telecom (0.33%) and transport (0.19%).Major losers in the main bourse included QLM, Alijarah Holding, Dlala, Medicare Group, Mazaya Qatar, Lesha Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Salam International Investment, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Aamal Company, Gulf International Services, Estithmar Holding, Al Khaleej Takaful, Ezdan and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, both Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Commercial Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Ooredoo and Industries Qatar were among the gainers in the main market.The Arab individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR22.43mn compared with net buyers of QR5.93mn on October 3.The Qatari retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR10.89mn against net buyers of QR25mn last Thursday.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.63mn compared with net buyers of QR3.64mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying weakened marginally to QR0.29mn against QR0.99mn on October 3.However, the domestic funds’ net buying expanded significantly to QR68.26mn compared to QR36.16mn last Thursday.The foreign institutions’ net selling decreased substantially to QR31.25mn against QR68.2mn the previous trading day.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking shrank noticeably to QR2.34mn compared to QR4.06mn on October 3.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.54mn last Thursday.Trade volumes in the main market fell 14% to 169.45mn shares, value by 17% to QR402.45mn and transactions by 20% to 14,152.The venture market saw 76% contraction in trade volumes to 0.04mn equities, 76% in value to QR0.1mn and 77% in deals to 7.

A sustained growth in business conditions in Doha’s non-energy private sector led employment reach a record high in September 2024 as companies boost capacity, according to Qatar Financial Centre (QFC).Accordingly, wage inflation reached a record high as the overall cost pressures were the highest in over four years, but charges for goods and services fell sharply, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) survey data from the QFC compiled by S&P Global.The PMI eased to 51.7 in September, from 53.1 in August, signalling a sustained overall growth in business conditions in the non-energy private sector economy. It was slightly below the long-run trend level of 52.3 (since April 2017)."There was a series-record increase in employment during the month as firms sought to expand capacity to address rising backlogs," QFC Authority chief executive officer Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida said.The Qatar PMI indices – compiled from survey responses from a panel of around 450 private sector entities – covers manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail, and services sectors, reflecting the structure of the non-energy economy according to official national accounts data.The headline PMI, a composite single-figure indicator of non-energy private sector performance, is derived from indicators for new orders, output, employment, suppliers’ delivery times and stocks of purchases.The non-energy private sector workforce expanded at the fastest rate on record, easily surpassing the previous peak set in January 2019. Efforts to boost staff numbers partly reflected a build-up of outstanding business for the first time in eight months and at the fastest rate since mid-2022 in the lead-up to the football World Cup.This occurred as new business expanded for the ninth month running in September, but total business activity softened.Sub-sector data revealed that the pause in output growth reflected the construction sector, as activity rose in the manufacturing, services and wholesale and retail sectors.The rate of increase in new business moderated in September, but confidence regarding the next 12 months strengthened again to the highest since March 2023.Positive sentiment among Qatari firms was attributed to economic development, a rising population and investment in key sectors including construction, real estate and tourism.Rising demand for staff drove up wage pressures in the non-energy sector with the seasonally adjusted staff costs index rising to a new high of 59.4. Non-staff cost pressures also intensified in September, with purchase price inflation the fastest in over four years.Overall input price inflation was the highest since July 2020. In contrast, prices charged for goods and services fell at the fastest rate since February 2019, linked to high competition.Although new business rose and the outlook improved, purchasing activity softened slightly as firms reported broadly stable inventory holdings, it said, adding this easing of pressure on supply chains was reflected in another reduction in average input lead times.There was also a further acceleration in the growth of demand for Qatari financial services in September. The seasonally adjusted financial services new business index rose to 64.1, from 62.8 in August, signalling a rapid improvement in demand conditions with the fastest growth since August 2022. Growth of total activity was maintained (53.2).Companies were also increasingly optimistic regarding the 12-month outlook, with sentiment at the highest level since February 2023 (78.1). There was also a notable boost to employment growth, which was the strongest in over five years and among the best on record (61.8)."The 12-month outlook continued to brighten, as firms mentioned investment in key sectors such as construction, real estate and tourism. September data also showed a record increase in wages, which should boost consumer demand," al-Jaida said.

Qatar Tourism and Baladna are among the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) brands that have been shortlisted for the 2024 edition of Mena Digital Awards (MDA).The digital awards showcase the most groundbreaking and innovative digital campaigns from across the Mena region. These shortlisted campaigns highlight creativity, innovation, and excellence in digital marketing, demonstrating the profound impact digital transformation is having across industries.Qatar Tourism has been shortlisted under the category Best Application (Mobile/Tablet) for its 'Visit Qatar Pass: Your gateway to exclusive savings'.Qatar Tourism has also been shortlisted under the category Best Web Platform for its 'The Qatar Tourism Awards'. It has also been shortlisted for its brand Visit Qatar for UEFA trophy tour.Qatar Tourism had received three awards in 2023 version. Its Visit Qatar mobile application presents the destination in innovative formats such as 360-degree videos, while offering data-driven, catalogued and inspirational experiences for its users.The Visit Qatar website and mobile application are available in eight languages: English, French, Italian, Arabic, German, Turkish and Spanish, and Mandarin.Baladna has been shortlisted for 2024 MDA under three categories 'Best Integrated Digital Campaign', 'Best Use of Video' and 'Best Creative Campaign'.The International Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha Qatar, which concluded a successful note, has been shortlisted for 'Best Integrated Digital Campaign' for MDA 2024.Nissan Qatar has been shortlisted under the category 'Best Use of Digital by Sector' for MDA, a bespoke, first-of-its-kind digital awards program, launched in 2014.This year's MDA attracted a record number of entries, with submissions from agencies, brands, and creative professionals competing in categories ranging from ‘Best Use of Social Media’ to ‘Best Performance Campaign’.The shortlisted entries are a testament to the region’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, highlighting how agencies, brands, and organisations are pushing the boundaries of digital marketing."The MDA continue to serve as the benchmark for digital marketing excellence in the region. Every year, we see new heights of creativity and innovation, and the 2024 edition is no exception. We are proud to showcase the best digital talent the region has to offer, inspiring others to push the boundaries of what’s possible in digital marketing," said Najla Semaan Mazboudi, founder of MDA.With categories spanning sectors various sectors, the awards reflect the diversity of industries that have embraced digital transformation in the Mena region. The competition recognises entries for their creativity, execution, and the results they deliver, making the MDA a significant platform for recognising the brightest minds in the digital sphere.The MDA 2024 jury comprises a panel of digital marketing professionals, handpicked for their expertise and insights into the latest industry trends. The MDA 2024 winners will be announced at the awards ceremony, which will take place in Dubai in December, bringing together over 200 industry leaders, influencers, and creative talents from the region.

The rising risks of a wider geopolitical conflict in the region had cast its spell on the Gulf bourses, including the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which closed this week 116 points lower.The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly into net profit booking as the 20-stock Qatar Index plunged 1.1% this week which saw QNB receive node from the Qatar Financial Market Authority for its share buyback programme.An across the board selling - notably in the real estate, telecom, transport and insurance counters – dragged the main bourse this week which saw Alijarah Holding launch its QR55mn residential project in Jeddah.About three-fourth of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market this week which Dukhan Bank’s $800mn sukuk oversubscribe more than three times.The foreign individuals were net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw Commercial Bank Financial Services start market making for Qamco, Masraf Al Rayan, QIIB, Milaha and Gulf Warehousing.The foreign funds were also seen bearish in the main market this week, which saw Moody’s, a global credit rating agency, find that a "significant" lending to the low-risk Qatari government and public-sector organisations and personal loans to nationals helped Qatar's banks maintain asset quality.The Arab retail investors continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.07mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.15mn trade across 35 deals.The domestic funds turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.02mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.28mn change hands across 24 transactions.The Gulf individuals were increasingly bullish in the main bourse this week which saw the realty and banking sectors together constitute more than 57% of the total trade volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices in the main market this week, which saw as many as 0.11mn sovereign bonds valued at QR1/08bn trade across two deals.Market capitalisation eroded QR4.74bn or 0.77% to QR613.33bn on the back of small and microcap segments this week, which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes in the main market this week, which saw Mekdam Holding seek withdrawal of credit rating from Standard and Poor as the company, having successfully strengthened its financial position and financed most of its operations through operating profits and capital increases, no longer intends to go for long-term borrowing.The Total Return Index tanked 1.1%, the All Share Index by 0.96% and the All Islamic Index by 1.49% this week, which saw the rejig of the QSE indices.The telecom sector index plummeted 2.96%, realty (2.58%), transport (1.85%), insurance (1.26%), banks and financial services (0.84%), consumer goods and services (0.39%) and industrials (0.31%) this week which saw Qatar’s trade surplus at QR19.81bn in August 2024.Major losers in the main market included Qatar German Medical Devices, QIIB, Mazaya Qatar, United Development Company, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Commercial Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Lesha Bank, Alijarah Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Baladna, Qatari Investors Group, Aamal Company, QLM, Ooredoo and Nakilat. In the juniour bourse, both Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares depreciate in value this week which saw Qatar ports witness higher vessel calls, cargoes and container movement in September 2024.Nevertheless, Gulf Warehousing, Ezdan, Al Meera, Medicare Group and Mannai Corporation were among the gainers in the main market this week which saw the International Monetary Fund managing director Kristalina Georgieva held that the Gulf region remains a bright spot despite the numerous shocks over the past few years and its growth is slated to rebound this year and strengthen to close to 4% in 2025 as oil production cuts are gradually unwound.The Gulf institutions’ net selling increased substantially to QR36.62mn compared to QR3.88mn the week ended September 26.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR16.7mn against net buyers of QR0.92mn the previous week.The foreign funds were net profit takers to the extent of QR11.83mn compared with net buyers of QR157.26mn a week ago.However, the domestic funds turned net buyers to the tune of QR57.77mn against net sellers of QR53.63mn the week ended September 26.The Qatari individuals were net buyers to the extent of QR9.16mn compared with net sellers of QR76.09mn the previous week.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying strengthened noticeably to QR4.54mn against QR0.88mn a week ago.The Arab institutions’ net buying expanded perceptibly to QR1.43mn compared to QR0.47mn the week ended September 26.The Arab individuals’ net profit booking weakened substantially to QR7.76mn against QR25.95mn the previous week.The main market witnessed a 3% contraction in trade volumes to 956.18mn shares but on 7% jump in value to QR2.22bn and 3% in deals to 78,555 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes were up 9% to 1.53mn equities, value by 8% to QR3.52mn and transactions by 19% to 149.

The foreign institutions were seen increasingly bullish on the Qatar Stock Exchange, which on Monday gained more than 28 points to close above 10,600 levels.The telecom, banking and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.27% to 10,614.09 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,576 points.The domestic institutions were seen increasingly into net buying in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated further to 2%.The Gulf individuals continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.89bn or 0.31% to QR620.08bn on the back of small and microcap segments.The local retail investors were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main market, which saw 460 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan) valued at QR1,033 trade across two deals.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The Arab individual investors turned bearish in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 0.27%, the All Islamic Index by 0.21% and the All Share Index by 0.3% in the main market.The telecom sector index rose 0.7%, banks and financial services (0.59%), insurance (0.44%) and industrials (0.26%; while real estate declined 1.16%, transport (0.65%) and consumer goods and services (0.22%).Major gainers in the main bourse included Al Meera, Mannai Corporation, Medicare Group, Qatar Islamic Bank, QLM, Industries Qatar, Vodafone Qatar and Ooredoo.In the venture market, Al Mahhar Holding saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, about 54% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Alijarah Holding, Barwa, Qatari Investors Group, Baladna, Commercial Bank, Lesha Bank, Aamal Company, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Mazaya Qatar and Nakilat.The foreign institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR46.26mn compared to QR8.94mn on September 29.The domestic institutions’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR5.48mn against QR2.17mn the previous day.The foreign individual investors’ net selling declined marginally to QR1.54mn compared to QR1.93mn on Sunday.However, the Qatari retail investors’ net profit booking grew significantly to QR31.43mn against QR7.13mn on September 29.The Arab individuals turned net sellers to the extent of QR10.1mn compared with net buyers of QR2.84mn the previous day.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking expanded markedly to QR9.05mn against QR6.39mn on Sunday.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying shrank noticeably to QR0.39mn compared to QR1.5mn on September 29.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the third straight session.Trade volumes in the main market soared 33% to 225.8mn shares, value by 78% to QR597.06mn and transactions by 62% to 19,329.In the venture market, trade volumes grew more than seven-fold to 0.22mn equities and value by more than five-fold to QR0.5mn but on 13% contraction in deals to 14.

The rejig of the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE)’s 20-stock QE Index will take effect from today, replacing Estithmar Holding with Baladna.The other constituents of the main barometer are QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, Industries Qatar, Masraf Al Rayan, Nakilat, Commercial Bank, QIIB, Ooredoo, Woqod, QIIB, Milaha, Qatar Electricity and Water, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Dukhan Bank, Barwa, Gulf International Services, Doha Bank, United Development Company, Vodafone Qatar and Qamco.Companies with a velocity less than 5% are excluded from the review, as are companies whereby a single shareholder can only own less than 1% of outstanding shares.Medicare Group and Meeza have found place in the QE Al Rayan Islamic Index, while Qatari Investors Group have been removed from the index group, whose other constituents include Qatar Islamic Bank, Industries Qatar, Masraf Al Rayan, QIIB, Ooredoo, Woqod, Qatar Electricity and Water, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Dukhan Bank, Barwa, United Development Company, Vodafone Qatar, Qamco, Al Meera, Qatar National Cement, Baladna, Estithmar Holding and Ezdan.Al Faleh Educational Holding will join the QE All Share Index as well as Consumer Goods and Services Index.The All Share Index - which covers all listed stocks with share velocity greater than 1% - acts as an overall benchmark of the market, with over double the number of component stocks versus those included in the QSE index.Under the new index practices, a review is carried out twice a year to ensure that the selection and weighting of the constituents continue to reflect the purpose of the index.The indices are calculated as weighted average of the constituent prices; the weight depends on methodology but the majority of indices are weighted by market capitalisation and reviews take place on a regular basis to ensure selected stocks as well as their weightings are correctly representing the underlying market, according to the QSE.All listed companies are ranked by giving free float market capitalisation with a 50% weight and average daily value traded also 50% weight. Companies with velocity less than 5% are excluded from the review, as are entities whereby a single shareholder can only own less than 1% of outstanding shares.Any qualifying component exceeding 15% weight in the index as of market close September 26, 2024 will have its weight capped at the 15% level and excess weight allocated to remaining stocks proportionately.The index free-float for a stock is total outstanding shares minus shares directly owned by government and its affiliates, those held by founders and board members and shareholdings above 10% or greater of the total outstanding (except those held by those held by pension funds in the country).The bourse has seven sectors – banks and financial services (with 13 constituents), insurance (seven), industrials (10), real estate (four), telecom (two), transportation (three) and consumer goods and services (12) in the ‘All Share Index’.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which intraday crossed the 10,600 level, finally closed almost flat despite the buying support from the domestic funds as well as Arab and Gulf retail investors.The insurance, consumer goods, transport and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled mere 0.03% higher at 10,585.3 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,623 points.The foreign institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated to 2.27%.The Gulf institutions turned net profit takers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation was up QR0.12bn or 0.02% to QR618.19bn on the back of microcap segments.The local retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence in the main market, which saw 0.05mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.14mn trade across 23 deals.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The Total Return Index was up 0.03%, the All Islamic Index by 0.02% and the All Share Index by 0.02% in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills and sovereign bonds.The insurance sector index gained 0.37%, consumer goods and services (0.36%), transport (0.15%), banks and financial services (0.11%) and telecom (0.06%); while industrials and real estate declined 0.4% and 0.23% respectively.Major gainers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Doha Insurance, Mannai Corporation, Ezdan, Medicare Group, Qatar Islamic Bank and Al Meera. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, QLM, Inma Holding, Aamal Company, Vodafone Qatar, Doha Bank, Industries Qatar, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qamco and Barwa were among the losers in the main market.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.84mn compared with net sellers of QR4.27mn on September 26.The domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR2.17mn against net profit takers of QR0.49mn last Thursday.The Gulf individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.5mn compared with net sellers of QR1.05mn the previous trading day.The Qatari individual investors’ net selling declined noticeably to QR7.13mn against QR19.75mn on September 26.However, the Gulf institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR6.39mn compared with net buyers of QR7.1mn last Thursday.The foreign retail investors turned net profit takers to the tune of QR1.93mn against net buyers of QR0.05mn last Thursday.The foreign institutions’ net buying decreased substantially to QR8.94mn compared to QR18.42mn on September 26.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second straight session.Trade volumes in the main market fell 36% to 169.79mn shares, value by 42% to QR336.71mn and transactions by 41% to 11,923.The venture market saw 90% plunge in trade volumes to 0.03mn equities, 87% in value to QR0.09mn and 54% in deals to 16.

Qatar is fast emerging as the Middle East and North Africa’s (Mena) retail destination, cashing in on the mammoth infrastructure built up in the run up to 2022 FIFA World Cup, as the 880,000sq m of new retail area built has further contributed to Qatar’s tourism attractiveness, according to Knight Frank, a London-based global real estate advisory firm.Moves by the government to capitalise on the $330bn infrastructure spend in the 10 years leading to the 2022 FIFA World Cup are paying dividends, Knight Frank said in a report, citing the increased inflow of tourists."Qatari authorities have channelled their efforts into transforming Qatar into a modern state, complete with a plethora of and growing number of tourist attractions, including the recently announced $ 5.5bn Simaisma Project," said Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, Middle East and North Africa, Knight Frank.Aside from the incredible tourist attractions that are emerging around the country, the luxury retail sector is fast emerging as a key magnet to prospective visitors, he said.It has found that the not only is the sector the second most popular investment asset class for GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) nationals and GCC-based expats, but 79% of regional visitors are keen to visit the country purely to go shopping."This suggests that the 880,000sq m of new retail built in Qatar since 2011 has not gone unnoticed and is further contributing to Qatar’s attractiveness as one of the world’s most exciting new tourist destinations,” he said.Knight Frank’s research reveals that for the GCC nationals aged 18-45, the retail sector was the second most popular investment asset class, behind branded residences. For Saudis and Emiratis, the retail sector is also the second most popular asset class in Qatar at 40% and 36%, respectively, behind branded residences.The sector is held in even higher regard for GCC-based expats, with 44% of Saudi-based expats and 34% of UAE-based expats naming it as their target asset class, hinting at the authorities' success in fostering a vibrant and attractive retail landscape.Overall, nationals and expat residents in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have the strongest desire to travel to Qatar for shopping at 85% each. The UAE (76%) and Kuwait (75%) show moderate interest. In comparison, Oman exhibits a lower interest rate of 63%.The appeal of Qatar to those living in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as a place for a shopping holiday likely stems from their relative proximity and cultural similarities, it said, adding strong historical and economic ties are also likely factors, according to Knight Frank. Saudi Arabia emerged as the top source market for tourists in 2023, while Bahrain ranked seventh, ahead of the UAE (ninth place).This interest in travelling to Qatar to shop is particularly strong among the higher income brackets, irrespective of country of residence or origin, it said, highlighting that 88% of those earning QR22,500-25,000 per month and 86% of those earning above QR25,000 per month showed interest in Qatar for a shopping holiday.Highlighting that Qatar's strategic location, world-class retail offerings, and unique shopping experiences make it a premier destination for the GCC visitors; Jonathan Pagett, Partner – Retail Advisory, Middle East and North Africa, Knight Frank, said its survey reveals a robust interest across various demographics, particularly among younger adults and those in higher income brackets, indicating strong market potential."The appeal of Qatar's luxury brands, modern malls, and cultural affinity with neighbouring countries like Saudi Arabia and Bahrain further enhance its attractiveness. By continuously improving the retail experience and hosting major events like Shop Qatar, Qatar is well on its way to emerging as the region's latest retail destination," he added.Finding that the appeal of luxury and international brands is "especially strong", with cultural activities and local products adding to the shopping experience; he said this could serve as a model for mall operators and developers seeking to take advantage of the increasing interest from the region in traveling to Qatar for a shopping holiday.

The proposed Chinese stimulus package brightened the prospects in global bourses, including the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which closed this week with a 118-point jump in key barometer and QR9.51bn addition in capitalisation.The foreign institutions were seen increasingly net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shot up 1.12% this week which saw Ooredoo sign QR2bn financing pact with QNB, Doha Bank, and Masraf Al Rayan.An across the board buying, notably in the real estate and telecom counters, lifted the sentiments in the main bourse this week. About 58% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main market.The Arab institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse this week which saw QIIB issue a $300mn additional Tier-1 sukuk.The Gulf individuals continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market this week, which saw Commercial Bank issue largest ever Green CHF-denominated bond.The local retail investors were seen increasingly into net selling in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.03mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.06mn trade across 15 deals.The domestic funds turned net profit takers in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.02mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.24mn change hands across 13 transactions.The Gulf institutions were increasingly bearish in the main bourse this week which saw the realty and banking sectors together constitute about 58% of the total trade volumes.The Islamic index was seen outperforming the other indices in the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation added 1.56% to QR618.07bn on the back of large and midcap segments this week, which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes in the main market this week, which saw Al Faleh Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Qatar Industrial Manufacturing in a local consortium to establish industrial and table salt project.The Total Return Index rose 1.12%, the All Share Index by 1.09% and the All Islamic Index by 1.4% this week, which saw international credit rating agency Fitch say the issuance in Qatar’s debt capital market is slated to be broadly stable.The real estate sector index zoomed 5.49%, telecom (1.54%), banks and financial services (1.09%), insurance (1.02%), consumer goods and services (1.01%), transport (0.76%) and industrials (0.46%) this week which saw Baladna’s move to establish an integrated dairy and poultry project in Algeria.Major gainers in the main market included Ezdan, Alijarah Holding, Mazaya Qatar, Aamal Company, Barwa, Commercial Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Qatar Oman Investment, Salam International Investment, Woqod, Qatari Investors Group, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qamco, Ooredoo and United Development Company.In the venture market, both Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares appreciate in value this week.Nevertheless, Inma Holding, QLM, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Doha Bank, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Meeza and Gulf International Services were among the losers in the main bourse this week.The foreign funds’ net buying increased substantially to QR157.26mn compared to QR11.26mn the week ended September 19.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.47mn against net profit takers of QR0.38mn the previous week.However, the Qatari retail investors’ net selling grew significantly to QR76.09mn compared to QR56.3mn a week ago.The domestic funds were net sellers to the extent of QR53.63mn against net buyers of QR47.37mn the week ended September 19.The Arab individuals’ net profit booking strengthened noticeably to QR25.95mn compared to QR10.49mn the previous week.The Gulf institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR3.88mn against net buyers of QR0.18mn a week ago.The foreign individuals’ net buying weakened perceptibly to QR0.92mn compared to QR6.79mn the week ended September 19.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying eased marginally to QR0.88mn against QR1.56mn the previous day.The main market witnessed a 7% jump in trade volumes to 983.92mn shares but on 3% fall in value to QR2.06bn amidst 17% growth in deals to 776,583 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes soared 28% to 1.4mn equities, value by 25% to QR3.27mn and transactions by 4% to 125.