As Oman pushes forward with its Vision 2040 agenda, alternative financing mechanisms — from leasing and factoring to private equity and capital markets — are helping to diversify funding channels, support SMEs, and reduce pressure on traditional banking. This evolution isn’t just about financial innovation — it’s about enabling entrepreneurship, investment, and a more resilient economy. OBG’s
Interview: Khalid Jamal Al Kayed How do you see the banking sector’s role evolving to support the long-term economic diversification efforts outlined in Oman Vision 2040? KHALID JAMAL AL KAYED: The sector plays an important role in supporting the realisation of Oman Vision 2040 by mobilising resources and providing financial solutions for sectors such as logistics, tourism, manufacturing and renewables.…
Interview: Said Abdullah Al Hatmi How do banks support the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)? SAID ABDULLAH AL HATMI: Oman’s banking sector recognises SMEs as vital to the country’s economic growth and diversification efforts. Banks are taking steps to support SMEs by offering specialised financial products, mentorship programmes and bespoke advisory services. One development…
Interview: Khalid Al Balushi In what ways have financial technology (fintech) and digital banking trends influenced opportunities for investors within financial services? KHALID AL BALUSHI: The financial sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by a fintech framework designed by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) to foster innovation. One key indicator of this shift is the sultanate’s…
Interview: Haitham Al Salmi In what ways does the Vision 2040 roadmap impact capital markets and investor confidence in the face of global economic uncertainties? HAITHAM AL SALMI: Despite global uncertainties like oil price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions, the GCC’s strategic investment has made the region a beacon for investors. In particular, Vision 2040’s strategic push to reduce dependency…
Interview: Abdulaziz Al Balushi How are capital markets well positioned to attract investment both regionally and internationally? ABDULAZIZ AL BALUSHI: Oman’s capital markets are distinguished by attractive valuations and a strong growth trajectory, bolstered by improved credit ratings that have boosted investor confidence. The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has implemented progressive reforms,…
Interview: Tariq Sulaiman Al Farsi In what areas do the most significant opportunities lie for non-banking financial institutions (NBFIs) to innovate their service offerings? TARIQ SULAIMAN AL FARSI: The most promising avenues for NBFIs are found in improving access, speed and personalisation across financial services. As customer expectations evolve, namely among underserved segments such as small…
Interview:Abdullah Al Salmi To what extent can capital markets contribute to the diversification goals of Oman Vision 2040? ABDULLAH AL SALMI: Capital markets are pivotal in financing economic diversification under Oman Vision 2040. We have seen significant progress in recent years in channelling funds from the capital markets to help support economic projects, with financing provided by these…
Interview: Sheikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar How is the banking sector adapting to promote economic diversification and sustainable growth? SHEIKH WALEED KHAMIS AL HASHAR: Banks in Oman are developing strategies to support the sultanate’s economic diversification and foster sustainable growth. This shift is driven by Oman Vision 2040, the long-term development strategy to create a more balanced and…
