SAN FRANCISCO: The Federal Reserve is considering raising near-zero interest rates this year even though this may slow the US recovery, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said.
The Federal Open Market Committee is now “giving serious consideration to beginning to reduce later this year some of the extraordinary monetary policy accommodation currently in place,” Yellen said in a speech in San Francisco, according to the prepared text.
Yellen emphasized that the FOMC was taking a “gradualist approach” as it weighs whether the economy is strong enough to weather higher rates.
Earlier this month, the Fed’s policy arm opened the door to a federal funds rate hike as early as midyear, dropping the word “patient” in its post-meeting statement.
But a string of weak economic data, particularly in consumer spending, housing and manufacturing, has muddied the outlook for an increase in rates pegged at the zero level for more than six years.
The central bank took note of the sluggishness in mid-March, saying that growth prospects were more muted than they were just three months ago.
The US central bank slashed 0.3 percentage point from its growth forecast for this year, to 2.3-2.7 percent, in part because American households had tailed back spending.
Still, the recovery from the Great Recession that ended in 2009 appeared on track enough to sustain a rate hike.
“With continued improvement in economic conditions, an increase in the target range for that rate may well be warranted later this year,” Yellen said at a conference sponsored by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
The Fed’s ultra-low rate has supported a sizable reduction in labor market slack over the past two years, she said, and appears to be leading to “further substantial gains.”
“A modest increase in the federal funds rate would be highly unlikely to halt this progress, although such an increase might slow its pace somewhat,” the Fed chief acknowledged.
“We view Yellen’s remarks as attempting to shift the debate from ‘when’ to ‘how fast’ and communicating a gradual tightening cycle,” Barclays analyst Michael Gapen said.
Her remarks came after the Commerce Department earlier in the day left unchanged its estimate of fourth-quarter gross domestic product growth at an annual rate of 2.2 percent.
The GDP number disappointed analysts, who expected a revision upward to a 2.4 percent pace that would show the economy had greater momentum going into 2015.
“The first quarter looks even softer, in part due to adverse weather, but abstracting from the vagaries of the quarterly data, real growth appears to be trending close to a respectable three percent pace,” said Scott Hoyt of Moody’s Analytics.
Federal Reserve weighs rate hike ‘this year’: Janet Yellen
Federal Reserve weighs rate hike ‘this year’: Janet Yellen
Saudi industry and mineral resources ministry launches new mining innovation program
- Initiative will support digital transformation in the industrial and mining sectors
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has said it will launch a new initiative dedicated to fostering innovation in the mining and industrial sectors, according to official statements.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources announced the Innovative Industrial and Mining Products Program, which is described as a significant undertaking to enhance developments and support the digital transformation of these sectors, it said on its official X account.
The authority added that the program represents “a key step toward fostering innovation in the industrial and mining sectors” and reflects its commitment to “developing innovative solutions that support the Kingdom’s industrial transformation and stimulate the growth and sustainability of the mining sector.”
Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef said the program seeks to “provide an integrated environment that enables innovators to transform their ideas into executable and competitive products locally and internationally.”
He added that the initiative will boost innovation, which is a key pillar of economic growth, and support digital transformation in the industrial and mining sectors, according to a tweet by the minister.
In August, the ministry said that the petrochemical sector received a boost after a digital platform delivered over 100,000 tonnes of raw materials to local factories.
Launched in mid-2023, the platform was designed to tackle challenges related to the surplus of locally available raw materials and to address competitiveness issues stemming from price disparities.
Giga-projects fueling real estate boom in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector underwent a major transformation in 2024, driven by the goals of Vision 2030. The market saw significant changes, fueled by unprecedented investments and key policy reforms. As a result, the Kingdom has positioned itself as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification within the real estate industry.
Vision 2030
Since its launch in 2016, Vision 2030 has served as Saudi Arabia’s roadmap for economic diversification, with real estate playing a central role. By 2024, the Kingdom had invested SR4.9 trillion ($1.3 trillion) in infrastructure, significantly boosting residential, commercial, and hospitality capacities. Notable projects aim to introduce over a million residential units, as well as expand retail and office spaces by 7 million sq. meters each.
“Saudi Arabia’s policy reforms and investment under Vision 2030 have transformed the Kingdom’s real estate landscape, making it one of the most dynamic markets in the region,” said Tarek Lotfy, president of Mercer in India, Middle East, and Africa, in an interview with Arab News.
He emphasized that these reforms have accelerated the sector by aligning with broader initiatives to increase homeownership, improve livability, and attract foreign investments. This has been achieved through eased ownership regulations and the creation of Special Economic Zones.
FASTFACTS
By 2024, the Kingdom had invested SR4.9 trillion ($1.3 trillion) in infrastructure, significantly boosting residential, commercial, and hospitality capacities.
A 38 percent increase in real estate transactions during the first half of 2024, valued at SR127.3 billion, highlights the sector’s dynamic growth.
Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah have seen rising property prices, with Riyadh expected to reach a population of 10 million by 2030.
According to Sally Menassa, partner at Arthur D. Little Middle East, these reforms have included “easing foreign ownership restrictions, enhancing transparency in real estate transactions, introducing incentives for green building practices, and establishing a national framework for smart city development.”
The establishment of a real estate transaction registry has been a particularly significant step in boosting market confidence, as it reduces the risks of fraud and increases investor trust.
Menassa further highlighted the role of mega-projects in fostering investor confidence: “The involvement of the PIF in major development projects such as the Diriyah Gate Development reassures investors of the Kingdom’s commitment to high-quality, sustainable development and the stability of such developments.”
Lotfy added that alongside these advancements, the rapid pace of development has also created challenges, including increasing competition for skilled labor in construction and smart city infrastructure.
Recruitment and retention will be key themes in 2025, as companies will need to focus on developing long-term talent strategies, investing in training, and fostering a culture that attracts and retains top-tier talent, according to Lotfy.
Catalysts for transformation
Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, led by the Public Investment Fund, underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to large-scale innovation and ambitious transformation. High-profile projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Global are set to redefine urban living, culture, and tourism.
NEOM alone spans 28,000 sq. km and is envisioned as a smart city powered by renewable energy and cutting-edge technology. Menassa emphasized the uniqueness of NEOM, pointing to initiatives like Oxagon, a floating industrial complex designed for sustainability and advanced technologies. “This is expected to attract high-tech industries and global talent, driving demand for residential and commercial properties,” she said.
Meanwhile, Qiddiya is being developed as a world-class entertainment hub, featuring theme parks, cultural centers, and sports complexes. Menassa added that Qiddiya’s growth as a major cultural and entertainment destination would further boost tourism and the hospitality sector, creating demand for mixed-use assets that combine retail, leisure, and residential components.
The Red Sea Project is another transformative initiative focused on sustainable tourism. According to Menassa: “Focusing on eco-friendly concepts and incorporating sustainable practices in its development, starting from construction, it (The Red Sea Project) will set new standards for regenerative and sustainable tourism and real estate development.”
Residential market
Saudi Arabia’s residential sector saw substantial growth in 2024, driven by government-backed initiatives and strong demand. Programs like Sakani and the National Housing Program have been essential in advancing the Vision 2030 goal of achieving 70 percent homeownership.
Menassa underscored the significance of these efforts: “The addition of over a million homes as part of Saudi Arabia’s residential expansion efforts, aligning with the goal of achieving a 70 percent homeownership rate under Vision 2030, is expected to significantly impact homeownership rates and affordability, creating a big socio-economic shift in the nation.”
A 38 percent increase in real estate transactions during the first half of 2024, valued at SR127.3 billion, highlights the sector’s dynamic growth. Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah have seen rising property prices, with Riyadh expected to reach a population of 10 million by 2030.
Hospitality and tourism
Tourism, a cornerstone of Vision 2030, has already surpassed expectations. The Kingdom achieved its target of 100 million visitors in 2023 and now aims to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030.
“The 2034 FIFA World Cup will play an instrumental role in shaping the future of the short-term rental market in Saudi Arabia over the next 10 years,” said Anna Skigin, CEO of Frank Porter, in an interview with Arab News. “We will see a significant increase in the number of properties being developed as savvy investors look to capitalize on the announcement. We will also see more people buying properties and converting these into short-term rentals,” she added.
Short-term rentals are reshaping the tourism landscape, creating new opportunities for various types of travelers. Skigin noted: “There is the opportunity for larger groups to travel — potentially multi-generational family travel and other large groups of family and friends.”
She further explained, “Short-term rentals can cater to a variety of different budgets while offering more space than hotel rooms. These rentals also provide more privacy for travelers.”
Menassa also highlighted the Kingdom’s focus on luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and eco-friendly accommodations as part of its broader tourism strategy. Developments like Jeddah Al-Balad, Diriyah, and Qiddiya are generating demand for integrated, mixed-use assets, boosting both tourism infrastructure and the overall quality of life, she explained.
Proptech boom
Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation has positioned proptech as a key component in the evolution of its real estate sector. Innovations such as digital mortgages, AI-driven property recommendations, and virtual tours are revolutionizing the home-buying experience.
“Digital mortgages will allow streamlined processes, expediting the buying process by automating many of the steps involved, enhancing accessibility, and increasing transparency. Buyers can now compare rates, get pre-approved for loans from their homes, and explore homeownership opportunities with greater ease,” said Menassa.
She also highlighted the integration of smart city infrastructure like NEOM’s, which incorporates advanced technologies to enhance urban living.
“This also extends to urban planning and management, including advanced surveillance systems, smart street lighting, emergency response, traffic forecasting, and energy consumption management,” Menassa added.
Outlook
Despite its rapid growth, the Saudi real estate sector faces challenges such as economic volatility and rising project costs. Lotfy warned that as the Kingdom moves towards smart cities and sustainable development, the demand for advanced technical skills will increase.
However, the opportunities outweigh these challenges. Skigin concluded: “The Kingdom has been significantly pushing tourism for both international and domestic tourists,” and these efforts will continue to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector in the coming years.
Closing Bell: Saudi indices start week in green closing at 11,892
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index started the week with a 0.28 percent increase, or 33.28 points, to reach 11,892.75 points on Sunday.
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR3.5 billion ($942.7 million), as 140 of the listed stocks advanced, while 86 retreated.
The MSCI Tadawul Index increased by 4.26 points, or 0.29 percent, to close at 1,494.56.
The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu also increased, gaining 166.10 points, or 0.54 percent, to close at 31,052.81 points. This comes as 42 of the listed stocks advanced while as many as 34 retreated.
The index’s top performer, Buruj Cooperative Insurance Co., saw a 9.96 percent increase in its share price to close at SR20.10.
Other top performers included Arriyadh Development Co., which saw a 9.34 percent increase to SR34.55, while Wataniya Insurance Co.’s share price rose 8 percent to SR23.22.
The Mediterranean and Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance Co. also recorded a positive trajectory, with share prices rising 7.66 percent to reach SR26.70. Retal Urban Development Co. also witnessed positive gains, with 6.16 percent reaching SR16.20.
Al-Baha Investment and Development Co. saw the steepest decline on TASI, with its share price slipping 4 percent to SR0.48.
Saudi Cable Co. followed with a 2.94 percent decline to SR99.20. Almarai Co. also saw a drop of 2.46 percent to settle at SR55.50.
Saudi Industrial Development Co.’s share also fell by 2.41 percent to settle at SR28.40, and Anaam International Holding Group’s decreased by 2.31 percent to sit at SR1.27.
In Nomu, Miral Dental Clinics Co. was the best performer, with its share price rising by 7.47 percent to reach SR112.20.
Among the gainers, United Mining Industries Co. saw its share price rise by 6.08 percent, reaching SR41.90, while Aqaseem Factory for Chemicals and Plastics Co. recorded a 5.65 percent increase, standing at SR8.41.
Meyar Co. also fared well, with a 5.58 percent increase, and Arabian Plastic Industrial Co. rose by 4.65 percent.
Alhasoob Co. shed the most in Nomu, with its share price dropping by 8.68 percent to reach SR61.
Arabian Food and Dairy Factories Co. experienced a 7.71 percent decline in share prices, closing at SR85, while Bena Steel Industries Co. dropped 7.61 percent to settle at SR38.25.
Lana Medical Co. and Arabian United Float Glass Co. were also among the top decliners, with Lana Medical Co. falling 4.07 and Arabian United Float Glass Co. declining 3.80 percent.
Saudi Arabia charts global leadership path with landmark deals in 2024
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda gained significant momentum in 2024, with the Kingdom securing a series of high-profile strategic partnerships that span multiple industries.
These deals, coupled with the country’s ongoing reforms, are positioning Saudi Arabia as a global economic and financial powerhouse. Experts emphasize that these agreements have long-term potential to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and reduce its dependency on oil revenues.
In the past year, Saudi Arabia signed key agreements with international governments and corporations in sectors including education, tourism, IT, finance, manufacturing, and renewable energy, according to Yaseen Ghulam, associate professor of economics and director of research at Al-Yamamah University in Riyadh.
Tourism sector takes off
The Saudi Tourism Authority reached a major milestone in May by unveiling the Kingdom’s unique summer destinations at the Arabian Travel Market. This initiative resulted in over 40 new agreements, including partnerships with Saudia, Riyadh Air, flyadeal, Noon, and China’s i2i Group.
“Tourism is expected to play a major role in the Kingdom’s economic transformation,” Ghulam said, underscoring the importance of these agreements in promoting the sector and creating new employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women. These efforts are in line with Vision 2030’s broader objectives. Saudi Arabia aims to develop year-round attractions and position itself as a top global destination. By blending traditional culture with modern experiences, the Kingdom is appealing to both domestic and international tourists, further strengthening its tourism strategy.
Strategic alliances
Abdullah Al-Maghlouth, a member of the Saudi Economic Association, pointed out that the Kingdom’s strategic alliances focus on diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investments, and boosting trade with international partners. These partnerships span regions, including the US, China, Europe, and Africa, and cover sectors such as technology, infrastructure, tourism, education, and renewable energy.
“These partnerships include collaborations with the US, China, European countries, and African nations, focusing on areas like energy, technology, infrastructure, tourism, education, and renewable energy,” he explained.
The agreements target key areas such as reducing reliance on oil, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation while supporting flagship projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project.
“These alliances will improve product and service quality, promote innovation, and help Saudi companies adopt modern technologies,” Al-Maghlouth added.
Education sector
2024 also saw significant strides in education. In November, top American universities visited Saudi Arabia, leading to an agreement aimed at strengthening academic and scientific cooperation. This partnership will increase exchanges between students and faculty, foster joint research projects, and introduce advanced academic programs.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Technical and Vocational Training Corp. launched a cooperation program with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, reinforcing the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a hub for international academic collaborations.
Another key development was a service agreement between the University of Strathclyde and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, signaling an open door for more British universities to establish partnerships in Saudi Arabia.
HIGHLIGHTS
These partnerships span regions, including the US, China, Europe, and Africa, and cover sectors such as technology, infrastructure, tourism, education, and renewable energy.
The agreements target key areas such as reducing reliance on oil, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation while supporting flagship projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project.
In November, top American universities visited Saudi Arabia, leading to an agreement aimed at strengthening academic and scientific cooperation.
Saudi Arabia signed a major agreement with NASA in 2024 to strengthen ties in space exploration, research, and education.
LEAP 24, a major tech event organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, resulted in agreements worth $24 billion to boost AI research and digital technology localization.
Space and digital transformation
In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia signed a major agreement with NASA in 2024 to strengthen ties in space exploration, research, and education. “This agreement has a huge significance and shall pave the way for further collaboration and related economic activities,” said Ghulam.
On the digital front, LEAP 24, a major tech event organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, resulted in agreements worth $24 billion to boost AI research and digital technology localization.
Highlights include Amazon’s $5.3 billion investment in training initiatives, including the AWS Saudi Arabia Women’s Skills Initiative, which aims to train 4,000 women. Additionally, Aramco Digital announced partnerships with US tech companies to build the world’s largest AI supercomputer center in Saudi Arabia.
“All these agreements are expected to generate employment opportunities and help diversify the economy greatly,” Ghulam said.
Construction, renewable energy sectors
In the construction sector, a notable partnership was formed between Saudi Arabia’s National Housing Co. and China’s CITIC Construction. The agreement focuses on developing industrial cities and logistics zones to support residential projects and strengthen the real estate sector. Ghulam emphasized that these zones would boost construction, support local industries, expand the domestic materials market, and improve housing quality.
Renewable energy also made waves in 2024. In January, ACWA Power, a Saudi company, led a $1.5 billion wind energy project in Egypt, one of the largest onshore wind energy projects globally. “This initiative will provide electricity to 1 million homes in Egypt and reduce carbon emissions by 2.4 million tonnes annually,” Ghulam pointed out.
This project not only supports Egypt’s energy needs but also solidifies ACWA Power’s position as a key player in the global renewable energy sector, alongside other leading Saudi brands like Aramco and the Public Investment Fund.
PIF’s expanding role
The Public Investment Fund continues to be a driving force behind the Kingdom’s economic transformation. Since 2017, PIF has created nearly 644,000 jobs and launched 94 new businesses. In 2024, PIF acquired a 15 percent stake in Heathrow Airport for $4.12 billion, signaling its intent to expand its influence in global infrastructure projects.
PIF also partnered with Google Cloud to establish an AI hub in Saudi Arabia, a project that is expected to contribute $71 billion to the country’s GDP over the next eight years.
“This cooperation seeks to strengthen the Saudi workforce and assist the country’s goal of a 50 percent increase in the information and communication technology industry in coming years,” Ghulam noted.
In the renewable energy sector, PIF has been instrumental in localizing the production of wind turbines, solar cells, and other renewable technologies. In partnership with Jinko Solar and Vision Industries, PIF is working to produce solar power ingots and wafers, further advancing Saudi Arabia’s green energy ambitions.
Additionally, in April, PIF joined forces with BlackRock to launch a multi-asset investment platform in Riyadh, aimed at expanding Saudi Arabia’s capital markets and attracting global investors.
A transformative year
The strategic partnerships and investments forged by Saudi Arabia in 2024 reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to economic innovation, diversification, and global collaboration. By focusing on developing human capital, cutting-edge industries, and sustainable growth, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leader on the world stage across multiple sectors.
Saudi Arabia’s flynas launches Dammam-Red Sea flights to boost tourism connectivity
- New service operates twice weekly, on Thursdays and Saturdays
- RSI is key in helping the Kingdom attract a significant amount of tourists by 2030
RIYADH: Saudi low-cost airline flynas has launched a new direct route connecting Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport to the Red Sea, enhancing access to the Kingdom’s premier tourism destination.
The inaugural flight, which landed on Dec. 26, marked the first direct connection between the Eastern Province and the Red Sea International Airport.
The new routes support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to make the Kingdom a global tourism hub by enhancing connectivity and infrastructure, while RSI is key in helping the nation attract a significant amount of tourists by the end of the decade.
The new service operates twice weekly, on Thursdays and Saturdays, and complements existing flights from Riyadh and Jeddah, strengthening RSI’s role as a domestic and international tourism hub.
Since September 2023, The Red Sea destination has hosted visitors at its five luxury resorts, supported by national carrier Saudia’s regular domestic services.
In 2024, RSI achieved another milestone by welcoming its first international flight from Dubai International Airport, operated by flydubai.
These developments highlight RSI’s growing role as a key gateway to Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings.
Once fully operational, RSI will run entirely on renewable energy generated by 760,500 photovoltaic panels and one of the world’s largest off-grid battery energy storage systems.
Current airside operations, including lighting, navigation, and meteorological equipment, are already exclusively powered by renewable energy.
Upon its completion in 2030, the expansive development will feature 50 resorts offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential units across 22 islands and six inland sites.
The development will also feature luxury marinas, golf courses, diverse dining options, and entertainment facilities, positioning it as a global leader in sustainable and luxury tourism.
In November, flynas added two new African destinations to its network beginning on Jan. 8.
The airline will operate three weekly flights from Riyadh to Uganda and three from Jeddah to Djibouti, according to the company’s statement.
The expansion is part of the airline’s “We Connect the World to the Kingdom” initiative and supports Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy, which aims to expand connectivity to 250 international destinations and reach 330 million passengers.
The routes to Uganda and Djibouti also align with Saudi Arabia’s goal of welcoming 150 million tourists annually by 2030 and advancing the Pilgrims Experience Program, which seeks to streamline travel access to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Red Sea International is strategically located to serve 250 million people within a three-hour flight radius, covering the Middle East, parts of Europe, and Africa.
