GULF MARKETS MIXED AS INVESTORS JUGGLE EARNINGS & TRADE THREATS

Gulf stock markets closed mixed on Sunday, caught between Q2 earnings reports and renewed U.S. trade threats under Donald Trump. The former president is pushing for 15–20% tariffs on EU goods, with potential reciprocal hikes above 10%, raising global market tension.

Saudi Arabia:

The Tadawul index slipped 0.4%, extending its losing streak to nine sessions — the longest in nearly two years. Losses were widespread across banks, mining, and retail sectors.

• Saudi National Bank dropped 0.8%.

• Ma’aden fell 1.3% after its CFO announced retirement.

• Fawaz Al Hokair & Co. plunged 10% following its 49.95% stake sale to Al Futtaim Retail for 2.5B riyals ($666M).

Qatar:

Qatar’s index rose 0.2%, driven by a 1.2% gain in Industries Qatar, pushing the market closer to a two-year high. The absence of corporate drama kept sentiment upbeat.

Egypt:

The EGX30 surged 0.7% to a record high, fueled by optimism around an $8B IMF deal.

• Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk expressed confidence in wrapping up IMF negotiations by Sept/Oct.

• Bonyan Development’s IPO was 33x oversubscribed, triggering further buying.

• Rumors of a $4B international bond issue added to the momentum.

Europe & ECB Outlook:

The Stoxx 600 is under pressure to post positive earnings, with banks taking center stage.

• Unicredit posts earnings Wednesday amid legal roadblocks to its Banco BPM acquisition.

• ECB is expected to hold rates at 2% Thursday. While policymakers downplay Trump’s tariff threats, a 30% U.S. tariff on EU imports could force a rate cut post-summer.

Deutsche Bank warns that markets are underestimating inflation risks and the potential fallout from failed U.S.-EU talks, with an August 1 deadline looming.

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