Across the Gulf, stock indices ticked upward in early trading due to renewed optimism over potential U.S. Federal Reserve rate cuts. Saudi’s benchmark rose 0.3%, driven by strength in financials like Al Rajhi Bank (+0.6%). Dubai’s index also climbed 0.3%, with Emaar Properties up 1.4% and Emirates NBD gaining 1%. Qatar’s index was buoyed by a 0.6% gain in Qatar National Bank. This momentum comes despite a 1% dip in oil prices, ahead of the OPEC+ meeting and the U.S. non-farm payroll report. 

Source: reuters