The Sultanate of Oman has officially launched its first Alternative Investment Market, a new platform operating under the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) designed to unlock new financing and investment opportunities for the nation’s private sector. This strategic initiative aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and family-owned businesses by providing them with access to capital through a simplified regulatory framework.
he launch, held under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham al Said, is a key component of a broader capital market incentive programme intended to enhance competitiveness, attract investment, and expand private sector participation in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040.
A New Avenue for Capital
The Alternative Investment Market will function as a secondary market within the MSX, specifically tailored for high-growth companies. By offering flexible listing models and investor-friendly mechanisms, the platform is expected to diversify funding sources beyond traditional avenues, improve corporate governance standards, and enhance transparency.
This new market will help promising Omani firms progress toward future public listings on the main market, ultimately boosting investor confidence and contributing to the nation’s economic diversification goals.
A Strategic Vision for Growth
Haitham bin Salem al Salmi, CEO of MSX, described the launch as a “defining moment in Oman’s capital market journey.”
He emphasized, “This market reflects our confidence in the potential of high-growth Omani companies and underscores our commitment to facilitating their growth. With flexible listing models and investor-friendly mechanisms, the platform will diversify funding sources, enhance governance standards, and support promising firms in progressing toward future public listings.”
Abdullah bin Salem al Salmi, Executive President of the Financial Services Authority, added that the initiative is a “transformational step” in strengthening Oman’s business environment by opening new financing channels and accelerating the readiness of national companies for public markets.
First Movers and Future Listings
As part of its initial phase, Bawarq Nizwa International Investment has been directly listed on the Alternative Investment Market.
Several other companies are also preparing for indirect listings through offerings to qualified investors, including Nafath Renewable Energy, Mays Cars, and Oman Pesticides & Air Fresheners Company. The incentive programme will be rolled out over five years, allowing for a phased deepening of the market to build sustained investor confidence.
About The Alternative Investment Market
The Alternative Investment Market is a new platform under the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) created to provide SMEs, startups, and family-owned businesses access to capital with simplified listing requirements. It is a collaborative initiative between the National Programme for Fiscal Sustainability and Financial Sector Development (Estidamah) and key government bodies, including the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Financial Services Authority, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority. The market aims to enhance transparency, improve governance, and empower private-sector growth in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
Source: Zawya
