JEDDAH, 31 August 2005 — Saudi businesswomen are finding the stock market very attractive. To some women, the stock market is a way to double their profits while others believes that it is a good way to occupy their spare time. Saudi businesswomen broadened their knowledge of stock market by searching for stock information and updates, and by benefiting from experiences of women who have previously invested in the stock market.
Ameerah Swaigh is a young Saudi investor that entered the stock market recently. She started investing in the stock market two years ago at a local bank. “My first attempts failed. There were many people standing in line but few employees to process the transactions,” said Swaigh. “Another problem is the bank’s stock market screen, which used to break down every few minutes delaying them further.” She thought that stock market should not be limited to men only as it was the type of business that did not need any permit. “We would not face any obstacle in it,” Ameerah said. “It is very important that the stock room at the bank is updated with the latest technologies. One minute can make a difference,” she added.
Saudi businesswomen stock market investors have established a reputation for asking questions about the stock market and following company announcements. They are becoming more familiar with market indicators and know exactly when to enter the market. The Saudi stock market has attracted more than 90 percent of Saudi businesswomen and they have participated heavily in many initial public offerings (IPOs) including Bank Albilad, Almarai and Etihad Etisalat. Women do not find investing in factories and shops as attractive as managing their own portfolios and trading stocks.
Capital Market Authority (CMA) played an important role in attracting women by regulating and organizing the stock market. This created confidence for women to invest in the stock market and attract many others. This drove many local banks to open female trading stock halls. The market indicator also played an important role after it reached records high. The Saudi stock market is growing very fast and it is expected that the stock market to reach the level of international stock markets.
