Most Important News

1. Trump Threatens Hormuz Strait Seizure if Iran Won’t Compromise;
2. Solutions Proposes 100% Capital Increase via Bonus Shares;
3. After “Big Short” Goes Short, Trump Publicly Endorses Palantir;

At the close of 12/4/2025, the Tadawul All Shares Index(TASI.SA) decreased by 0.25%, closing at 11314.64 points; the Parallel Market Capped Index (NomuC)(NOMUC.SA) rose by 0.57%, closing at 22800.07 points.

As of Sunday’s close, the S&P 500 index(SPX.US) decreased by 0.11%, the NASDAQ(IXIC.US) rose by 0.35%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average(DJI.US) decreased by 0.56%.

Trump Threatens: U.S. Will Seize Hormuz Strait to Crush Iran’s Economy if Tehran Refuses to Compromise

After U.S.-Iran talks collapsed, Trump warned that if Iran does not make concessions, the U.S. military will move to control the Strait of Hormuz and cut off Iran’s oil exports. Tehran, meanwhile, insists that passage through the strait requires its authorization, and both sides remain fundamentally opposed over control of the critical waterway. Currently, transit through the strait is extremely limited, with all vessels under close Iranian surveillance.

U.S.-Iran Talks End Without Breakthrough as Iran Blames American “Greed”—Vance Says U.S. Has Shown Flexibility, Returns Home

Iran stated it is in no rush to hold further talks with the U.S., blaming the lack of agreement on “American greed and ambition.” U.S. Vice President Vance said on April 12 that the American side had demonstrated considerable flexibility and goodwill during about 21 hours of negotiations, staying in constant communication with Trump and the national security team. The U.S. has put forward a “final proposal” and is now awaiting Iran’s response.

Saudi Tourism Sector Posts Strong Q4 Growth with 34% Jump in Licensed Facilities

Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry continued its rapid expansion in Q4 2025, with the number of licensed tourism establishments rising 34% year-on-year to 5,937. The sector also saw rising hotel occupancy rates and guest stays, while overall employment grew by 6.6% to over 1 million. Despite a drop in average daily rates, the Kingdom’s ongoing investments and Vision 2030 strategy are driving robust growth as Saudi Arabia aims for 150 million annual tourists by 2030.

KSA Stocks

Solutions Proposes 100% Capital Increase via Bonus Shares

Arabian Internet and Communications Services Co.(7202.SA) announced that its Board of Directors has recommended a 100% capital increase through a bonus share issue. The move would double the company’s capital from SAR 1.2 billion to SAR 2.4 billion by capitalizing retained earnings, granting shareholders one bonus share for each share owned. The proposed increase aims to fuel the company’s growth and expansion, enhance shareholder value, and strengthen its position in the regional IT sector. The plan is subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.

EDARAT Proposes Share Buyback and 50% Bonus Share Issue

Edarat Communication and Information Technology Co.(9557.SA) announced board recommendations to buy back up to 10,000 shares for its employee incentive plan and to increase capital by 50% through a bonus share issue, raising capital from SAR 50.4 million to SAR 75.6 million. Both proposals are subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

USA Stocks

After “Big Short” Goes Short, Trump Publicly Endorses Palantir

Trump posted that “Palantir(PLTR.US) has proven outstanding capabilities and equipment on the battlefield.” Shortly after Trump’s statement, famed “Big Short” investor Michael Burry published a blog post declaring he would not close his short position and remains bearish on the stock. Palantir maintains deep ties with the current administration, working closely with multiple U.S. federal agencies, and several former Palantir employees have taken positions in government.

Memory Shortage Drives Global Smartphone Shipments Down 6%, but Apple Defies Trend to Claim the Top Spot

According to Counterpoint Research, global smartphone shipments fell 6% year-over-year in Q1 2026, hit by memory component shortages and weak demand. Despite this, Apple Inc.(AAPL.US) led the market for the first time ever in a Q1 period, posting 5% year-over-year growth and capturing a 21% market share. The firm noted that Apple’s ultra-premium positioning and highly integrated supply chain helped it remain the least affected brand amid the global memory crisis.