MUSCAT - Trading activity on the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) remained robust in March 2026, with total turnover reaching RO 1.426 billion, driven largely by strong activity in banking and energy-related stocks.

Market data showed the benchmark MSX30 Index closed the month at 8,168.396 points, reflecting continued gains in the broader market. Total market capitalisation increased by RO 5.925 billion, while cumulative growth since the beginning of the year stood at 39 per cent, highlighting sustained investor confidence.

Banking stocks led trading by value, with Sohar International topping the list at RO 271,648,644, followed by Bank Muscat at RO 241,972,850. Energy and industrial counters also recorded significant activity, with OQ Base Industries reaching RO 210,815,475, OQ Exploration & Production at RO 197,949,272, and OQ Gas Networks at RO 165,469,858.

In terms of trading volume, Sohar International again led with 1,222,167,812 shares, underscoring strong liquidity in the banking sector. This was followed by OQ Base Industries with 797,328,750 shares, OQ Gas Networks with 654,109,323 shares, Bank Muscat with 533,755,679 shares and OQ Exploration & Production with 405,546,092 shares.

The exchange recorded its highest daily turnover of the month on March 9, when trading activity reached RO 112.7 million, indicating heightened investor participation during peak sessions.

Foreign investors also maintained a notable presence in the market, with total purchases amounting to RO 173 million, contributing to overall liquidity and supporting market performance.

The concentration of trading in a select group of banking and energy stocks reflects continued investor preference for fundamentally strong and high-liquidity counters. Analysts note that such concentration, while supporting volumes, also highlights the importance of further diversification in listings to deepen market breadth.

Overall, March’s performance reinforces the MSX’s position as a steadily strengthening market within the region, supported by solid trading volumes, capital inflows and sustained sectoral demand.

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