Oman’s capital markets have welcomed a new investment vehicle as the Oman Gateway Fund officially listed on the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) following an initial public offering that raised more than RO26mn, marking the largest public subscription for a mutual fund in the country’s history.
Managed by United Securities, the fund introduces a new structure to Oman’s financial ecosystem by combining the features of an open-ended mutual fund with the flexibility of exchange trading. Investors can buy and sell fund units on the MSX during regular trading hours, similar to listed equities, while benefiting from professional portfolio management and net asset value (NAV)-based pricing.
The Oman Gateway Fund is the first investment vehicle in the sultanate to adopt this hybrid structure, aiming to improve liquidity and provide investors with easier access to diversified investment opportunities within Oman’s capital markets.
United Securities will apply the same disciplined, research-driven investment approach it uses in managing Omani discretionary portfolio management (DPM) mandates. The firm says its experience managing local portfolios positions it well to deliver strong investment performance for the new fund.
According to Haitham Al Salmi, Chief Executive Officer of the Muscat Stock Exchange, the listing represents a significant step in expanding the range of investment instruments available in the market.
“The listing of the Oman Gateway Fund represents a milestone in deepening the Omani capital market and diversifying the investment instruments available to investors,” Al Salmi said. “Introducing traded fund structures enhances liquidity, improves pricing efficiency and expands the investor base.”
Mustafa Ahmed Salman, Chief Executive Officer of United Securities, said the strong demand from institutional and retail investors reflects growing confidence in Oman’s capital markets.
“Combining the discipline of a mutual fund with the accessibility of an MSX-listed security is a first for Oman,” Salman said. “We remain committed to bringing institutional-grade investment products to Omani investors.”
The listing of the Oman Gateway Fund marks another step in strengthening the liquidity and dynamism of the Muscat Stock Exchange, aligning with Oman’s broader strategy to develop its financial sector and attract regional and international capital.
