Saudi Stock Exchange looks to woo Wall Street investors

The Saudi Stock exchange and SEDCO Capital, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest asset management firms, is on a field trip to the United States to pitch the Kingdom’s exchange to American investors.

High-level delegates from the exchange and SEDCO are currently traveling as part of a three-week international roadshow to promote the new investment opportunities available since the Saudi Stock Exchange (SSE) opened up to foreign investors in June.

The SSE represents one of the most liquid stock exchanges in the world’s emerging markets. The trip to Wall Street is one step in the SSE’s strategy to internationalize the exchange while helping to cement good institutional practices.

Wall Street was chosen alongside the exchanges in Singapore and London as the major financial hubs to start the SSE’s networking efforts. Wall Street is a highlight of the trip as American investors are renowned for their interest in trading with emerging markets.

"This international roadshow marks a very important milestone in the journey of both the Saudi economy and The Saudi Stock Exchange," Hasan Al Jabri, SEDCO Capital CEO, said. "Saudi Arabia plays a vital role in the global financial system. The depth of the Saudi market, evolving corporate governance standards, strong local economy and a solid financial system are undoubtedly the Saudi Stock Exchange's core strengths.”

Saudi Arabia is the world’s 19th largest economy, and its $2.3 billion daily liquidity makes it the seventh largest global emerging market. The opportunities offered by those numbers mean the Saudi Stock Exchange will likely prove tempting to American investors.