Most Important News

• Business Environment in Saudi Arabia Improves on AI, Digital Transformation: Microsoft;
• Cenomi Centers Earns SAR 202.5M in Q1 2026;
• SPIMACO Sees Revenue Drop Amid Private Sales Decline in Q1 2026;
• ADES Secures Offshore Drilling Contract in Nigeria with Seplat Energy;

At the close of 30/04/2026, the Tadawul All Shares Index(TASI.SA) dropped by 0.45%, closing at 11187.66 points; the Parallel Market Capped Index (NomuC)(NOMUC.SA) rose by 0.03%, closing at 22882.14 points. 

The S&P 500 index(SPX.US) closed up 0.29% at 7230.12 points, marking a weekly gain of 0.91% and the longest five-week rise since October 2024. The Dow Jones Industrial Average(DJI.US) fell 152.87 points, or 0.31%, to 49449.27, yet managed a 0.44% weekly rise. Meanwhile, the NASDAQ(IXIC.US) climbed 0.89% to 25114.443, with a weekly increase of 1.12%. 

Business Environment in Saudi Arabia Improves on AI, Digital Transformation: Microsoft

Microsoft Corporation(MSFT.US) Arabia President Turki Badhris noted significant improvements in Saudi Arabia's business environment, driven by AI and digital transformation. The Kingdom is enhancing its infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, with a focus on cloud computing and cybersecurity. Vision 2030 reports highlight a SAR495 billion digital economy and nearly 99% internet penetration. Microsoft is committed to supporting this growth through partnerships and AI skill development.

Iran Proposes 14-Point Plan to End Conflict

Iran has submitted a 14-point proposal to the US, focusing on ending the conflict rather than extending a ceasefire. Key demands include US troop withdrawal, lifting sanctions, and establishing peace across all fronts. President Trump expressed dissatisfaction, stating he finds it hard to imagine the plan being accepted, though he will review it. Iran awaits a formal US response, emphasizing a clear roadmap to end the imposed war.

KSA Stocks

SAL Profit Rises 2% to SAR 156.6M in Q1 2026

SAL Saudi Logistics Services Co.(4263.SA) announced its interim financial results for Q1 2026, revealing a 16.1% increase in revenue to SAR 445.8 million compared to the same period last year, driven by a 19.3% growth in the Cargo Ground Handling Division. Despite geopolitical disruptions, net profit rose 2.3% to SAR 156.6 million. However, revenue decreased 12.5% from the previous quarter due to seasonal factors.

SAL's board has approved distributing SAR 117.6 million in cash dividends for Q1 2026, equating to SAR 1.47 per share. The dividend represents 14.7% of the share par value. Shareholders owning shares by May 18, 2026, will receive payments on June 11, 2026. 

Cenomi Centers Earns SAR 202.5M in Q1 2026

Arabian Centres Co.(4321.SA) announced Q1 2026 results, with revenue slightly down by 1.4% to SAR 582.5 million year-on-year, but up 3.3% from the previous quarter. Net profit decreased 6.6% to SAR 202.5 million due to higher finance costs and utility expenses. Strong leasing and media sales boosted operating profit by 10.3%. New developments in Jeddah and Riyadh are set to enhance future performance significantly.

SPIMACO Sees Revenue Drop Amid Private Sales Decline in Q1 2026

Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries and Medical Appliances Corp.(2070.SA) announced a 12.6% decline in Q1 2026 revenue to SAR 423.8 million, primarily due to a 33% drop in private sales. Net profit fell by 8.05% to SAR 65.1 million, impacted by higher impairment provisions and increased tax expenses. However, government sales surged by 103% from the previous quarter. Shareholders' equity rose by 13.8%, reflecting financial stability. The auditor's report was unmodified.

Masar Q1 2026 Net Profit Falls 72% to SAR 44.9M

Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Co.(4325.SA) posted a sharp 84% drop in Q1 2026 revenue to SAR79.65 million, citing reduced land sales. Net profit fell 71.86% to SAR44.93 million. Despite challenges, shareholders' equity rose 5.79% year-over-year to SAR15.91 billion. The external auditor issued an unmodified report. 

NADEC Acquires Full Ownership of Al Raie National Livestock Company

National Agricultural Development Co.(6010.SA) (NADEC) has signed an agreement to acquire Anaam Saudi for Trading Company's 49% stake in Al Raie National Livestock Company for SAR 23.69 million. This move will give NADEC full ownership of the joint venture, which focuses on livestock farming and meat production in support of Saudi Vision 2030's food security goals. The acquisition, financed internally, aims to enhance governance, streamline operations, and boost local red meat production. Regulatory approvals are pending for transaction completion.

Alinma Bank Launches SAR-Denominated Tier 1 Sukuk Offering

Alinma Bank(1150.SA) has commenced its offer of SAR-denominated Additional Tier 1 Capital Sukuk through a private placement. The offering, part of a SAR 5 billion program, targets institutional and qualified clients. Alinma Capital Company and HSBC Saudi Arabia are joint lead managers. The minimum subscription is SAR 1 million, with terms subject to market conditions. 

ADES Secures Offshore Drilling Contract in Nigeria with Seplat Energy

Ades Holding Co.(2382.SA) has signed a contract with Seplat Energy for offshore drilling services in Nigeria, valued at approximately SAR 347.6 million (USD 92.7 million). The contract spans a firm two-year period, with options for two additional one-year extensions. This deal strengthens ADES' presence in Nigeria, aligning with its strategy for regional leadership and international diversification. Operations are set to begin in H2 2026.

MIS Secures SAR 190.5M Contract with NCM

Al Moammar Information Systems Co.(7200.SA) (MIS) signed a SAR 190.52 million contract with the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) to provide IT systems services across Saudi Arabia. The three-year deal, including VAT, was awarded on Nov. 17, 2025, and signed on April 30, 2026. MIS anticipates positive financial impacts from Q2 2026 to Q2 2029.

USA Stocks

Berkshire Hathaway Reports Record Cash Reserves in Q1 2026

In Q1 2026, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Class A(BRK.A.US) / Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Class B(BRK.B.US) reported an 18% rise in operating profit to US$11.346 billion. Despite a net investment loss of US$1.24 billion, cash reserves hit a record US$397 billion under new CEO Greg Abel. The company sold US$8.1 billion in stocks, boosting reserves. Insurance float stood at US$176.9 billion, with 61% of equity investments in major firms like Apple Inc.(AAPL.US) and Coca-Cola Company(KO.US).

Storage Chip Stocks Surge Amid Strong Earnings Reports

On May 1st, storage chip stocks soared, with Sandisk Corporation(SNDK.US), Seagate Technology Holdings PLC(STX.US), and Micron Technology, Inc.(MU.US) reaching record highs. Western Digital Corporation(WDC.US) also hit a new high before retreating. Analysts raised Sandisk's target price, with Susquehanna boosting it to $2000. Sandisk's FY26 Q3 revenue jumped 251% year-over-year, driven by AI data center demand. 

Apple Surges on Strong Earnings Report

Apple Inc.(AAPL.US) closed up 3.24%, with trading volume reaching US$22.38 billion. The company reported second fiscal quarter results exceeding expectations. Revenue hit US$111.8 billion, a 17% increase, surpassing the forecast of US$109.6 billion. Earnings per share were US$2.01, above the anticipated US$1.94. Apple also announced a positive revenue outlook and approved a stock buyback plan of up to US$100 billion.