Live Stock Market: Latest Indicators and Analysis of Saudi Market 2025

The Saudi Stock Market, known as 'Tadawul', is the official platform for trading securities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Under the supervision of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), this market includes more than 200 listed companies in the main market, in addition to companies in the Nomu market designated for small and medium enterprises. Following the stock market live enables investors to monitor prices in real-time, track index movements, and stay updated on the latest financial announcements and news affecting the market, which is crucial given the price volatility and the impact of global and local factors on market performance instantly. Official trading platforms and accredited financial websites provide real-time data on the performance of the general index 'TASI' and sector indices, along with financial details for each stock. The TASI index serves as a benchmark for measuring the overall market trend, reflecting the total market capitalization of listed stocks. Live monitoring is particularly essential during periods of volatility, economic crises, or the release of major companies' results, as prices react immediately to news. Therefore, relying on instant and reliable sources helps investors form an accurate picture of the market situation moment by moment.

The 'Live Stock Market' services are available through a range of licensed digital tools and platforms in Saudi Arabia. The most prominent is the official Tadawul website (www.saudiexchange.sa), which provides real-time data on every stock, indices, official announcements, and quarterly reports. Banking applications and brokerage firms' programs also offer the ability to monitor the market and execute real-time orders. Some specialized financial websites like 'Argaam' and 'Mubasher' provide real-time tracking of prices and major trades. This allows investors to review opening and closing times, daily high and low prices, trading volumes, and instantaneous change rates. These platforms rely on advanced technology to ensure data is updated in real-time, with graphical and historical display options to facilitate analysis. Some applications also provide instant alerts when significant movements occur or substantial news is released. It is important to ensure the use of platforms licensed by the Capital Market Authority to guarantee the accuracy of information and the safety of transactions. Following the live market allows for quick action and seizing opportunities, but caution should be exercised, and decisions should not be made hastily without thorough study of financial and economic data.

The main market index 'TASI' is the most comprehensive index for measuring the performance of the Saudi stock market, covering all listed companies in the main market except for the Nomu market. The index is calculated based on the market capitalization of the tradable stocks and is used as a benchmark for measuring the overall market trend. At the end of the first half of 2025, TASI closed at 11,163.96 points, down 4.41% from the same period in 2024. Sector indices reflect the performance of key sectors such as energy, banks, telecommunications, basic materials, and real estate. Monitoring these indices helps investors understand market dynamics and identify the most active or declining sectors. It also provides deeper insights into sources of strength or weakness in the market, as a rise in a specific sector index may indicate strong earnings from its companies or improved economic conditions. Sector indices are important for analyzing portfolio diversification, as market performance is not uniform across all sectors at the same time. Monitoring the general index is essential for assessing the risk appetite of local and foreign investors and overall liquidity trends.

Saudi Aramco (stock symbol: 2222) is considered the largest listed company in the Saudi market by market capitalization. By the end of 2024, the stock price was around 36 SAR, with a market capitalization estimated at about 7 trillion SAR. Aramco reported a net annual profit of 106.2 billion USD for 2024, down 12% from the previous year due to falling oil prices and some operational challenges. The company's price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio ranges between 15-17 according to estimates, while the annual dividend yield was about 5%, with a distribution of 0.48 SAR per share in the third quarter of 2024. Despite the relative decline in profitability, the company continues to grow revenues through expansion in energy and petrochemical projects. In the third quarter of 2025, Aramco saw relative stability in profits with a net profit of 28 billion USD. The financial data of Aramco highlights the importance of real-time monitoring of major companies' performance, as their results directly impact the general index and overall market trends. This case emphasizes the importance of reviewing key financial indicators: stock price, market capitalization, P/E ratio, dividend yield, and revenue growth when analyzing any Saudi stock.

The Capital Market Authority (CMA) is responsible for regulating and developing the Saudi financial market, ensuring the application of transparency standards and protecting the rights of all participants. The Authority sets the regulations governing the listing and disclosure process, imposes governance controls, and specific conditions for foreign and institutional trading. In 2024, the Authority issued amendments that enhance the speed of disclosure for major transactions and support market transparency. It also allowed for the expansion of participation by qualified foreign investors and approved new rules to improve stock liquidity. The Authority imposes strict penalties for any violations such as manipulation or disseminating misleading information and requires listed companies to publish their financial results on specific dates. This regulatory environment plays a pivotal role in enhancing market confidence and attracting local and international investments. It is important for every investor to stay informed about the Authority's decisions and regulatory updates, as they may directly affect investment opportunities and risk levels, while ensuring fairness and protecting small investors in the market.

The performance of the Saudi stock market is influenced by several local and global economic factors. The most prominent of these is global oil prices, as oil is the primary source of revenue for the Saudi government and the profits of major energy companies. Any change in oil prices is immediately reflected in the performance of the general index and the shares of companies like Aramco and SABIC. The monetary policies of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), such as fixing or raising interest rates, also affect liquidity levels in the market. Global factors such as inflation, economic growth in major markets, and fluctuations in emerging markets play a role in determining liquidity trends and investor confidence. Additionally, regional and geopolitical events, along with government programs like Vision 2030, impact growth and investment rates. In 2024 and 2025, the Saudi market experienced a relative decline due to falling oil prices and global market fluctuations; however, high dividends from major companies helped support local investor confidence. Real-time monitoring of these influences through reliable platforms aids in understanding market dynamics and anticipating investor reactions.

Dividends are a portion of a company's net profits paid to shareholders either in cash or in the form of additional shares. Listed companies in the Saudi market announce their dividends quarterly or annually based on their results and realized profits. The dividend yield is an important indicator for investors seeking regular income, calculated by dividing the annual dividends per share by its market price. For example, Aramco announced dividends of 0.48 SAR per share in the third quarter of 2024, which equates to an annual yield of about 5% at a price of 36 SAR per share. A high dividend yield is viewed as an indicator of a company's stability and profitability, but it should not be the sole factor in evaluating a stock, as some high dividends may reflect future growth challenges. Investors should review the dividend policy and its history, considering growth indicators and the company's financial profitability, to ensure decisions are based on comprehensive criteria rather than solely on cash yield.

The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is one of the most prominent financial indicators used to evaluate a stock, calculated by dividing the current stock price by the annual earnings per share. This ratio indicates the number of years an investor needs to recover the stock price from its earnings if profits remain constant. In the Saudi market, the P/E multiples for major companies typically range between 10 and 20. For instance, Aramco's stock at a price of 36 SAR and an annual earnings per share of about 2 SAR results in a P/E of approximately 18. This indicator should be used alongside other indicators such as revenue growth, profit margin, and available liquidity. It is also preferable to compare it with the P/E ratio of competing companies in the same sector to determine whether the stock is valued above or below the average. A low P/E does not necessarily mean the stock is a good opportunity; it may be due to expectations of declining profits or higher risks, and vice versa. Comprehensive fundamental analysis requires reviewing quarterly and annual financial reports and understanding the company's sectoral and competitive environment.

The Saudi stock market consists of the main market (TASI) and the Nomu market designated for small and medium enterprises. The main market includes companies with high liquidity and strict listing requirements, making it more stable and less risky. The Nomu market, on the other hand, is aimed at growing companies and features greater flexibility in listing requirements, but carries higher risks due to profit volatility and lower liquidity. The Nomu market offers opportunities for investors seeking rapid growth, but price fluctuations can be significant. Monitoring both markets is essential to understand overall market dynamics, as activity in the Nomu market often reflects investment trends in startups. New investors are advised to study the characteristics of each market and assess their risk tolerance before investing in the Nomu market or the main market.

The companies listed in the Saudi market are distributed across several key sectors, each with its characteristics and dynamics. The energy sector leads, driven by Aramco, and includes petrochemical companies like SABIC. This sector is directly affected by global oil prices. The banking sector is the second largest by market weight, including National Commercial Bank, Al Rajhi, SAB, and Alinma, where monetary policies and economic stability play a crucial role in its performance. The telecommunications sector, led by STC and Mobily, is experiencing growth due to digital transformation and the expansion of technical services. The industrial sector includes companies in basic materials, chemicals, and cement manufacturing. The real estate sector is one of the growing sectors, driven by Vision 2030 and major urban development projects. Growth and profitability rates vary among sectors, so it is advisable for investors to monitor sector indices to identify diversification opportunities and reduce risks.

The end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 witnessed several impactful developments in the Saudi stock market. Major companies like Aramco announced annual and quarterly financial results reflecting a relative decline in profits compared to the previous year, while dividends saw a notable increase. The Capital Market Authority introduced regulatory amendments to enhance transparency and increase foreign investor participation, tightening disclosure on major transactions. New companies were also listed in both the main and Nomu markets, providing investors with broader options. At the same time, fluctuations in oil prices and global economic events affected investor confidence and trends. Some sectors like telecommunications and banking continued to perform relatively stable due to dividend distributions and stable monetary policy. Monitoring these developments through official market platforms helps investors understand key shifts and anticipate potential impacts on indices and stocks.

Oil prices play a pivotal role in the performance of the Saudi market due to the national economy's reliance on oil revenues. Rising oil prices support the profits of energy companies, enhance government spending, and increase liquidity in the market, positively reflecting on the TASI index. Conversely, falling prices lead to a decline in major companies' profits and lower investment expectations. Additionally, the monetary policy of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (the central bank) influences liquidity levels and borrowing costs by setting interest rates, where fixing or lowering rates increases liquidity and encourages investment in stocks, while increases lead to some liquidity exiting in favor of low-risk instruments. In 2024-2025, the Saudi central bank maintained interest rates at moderate levels, contributing to relative market stability despite global market fluctuations. Investors should continuously monitor these factors as they affect stock valuations and overall market movement.

In recent years, the Capital Market Authority has taken significant steps to open the market to foreign investors. Qualified foreigners can invest directly in Saudi stocks through the Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) program, provided they open a trading account with a licensed broker and submit an application to the Authority. They can also invest indirectly through global investment funds that include Saudi stocks. The Authority imposes limits on foreign ownership in certain stocks and requires compliance with local laws. Foreign participation adds depth and liquidity to the market and increases the competitiveness of listed companies. It is important for international investors to understand regulatory requirements and investment policy updates to avoid any violations that may affect their investments. Monitoring regulatory news through official sources ensures the safety of procedures and protection of rights.

Despite the availability of real-time data and advanced analyses, every follower of the live stock market should adhere to a set of guidelines to ensure safety and effectiveness. First, rely on official and licensed sources for information such as the Tadawul website and brokerage firm applications, avoiding rumors or unverified news. Second, understand key financial indicators and analyze company results accurately before making any decisions. Third, regularly review updates on regulations and laws issued by the Capital Market Authority. Fourth, diversify across sectors and stocks to reduce risks, without succumbing to momentary market movements without study. Finally, consult a licensed financial advisor before any significant investment decision, especially for beginners or investors who cannot follow daily details.