Saudi Arabia Plans to Sell First International Bond

The transcript discusses the upcoming Saudi bond issue, expected after the Fed meeting on September 21st. A roadshow is anticipated by the end of September, with terms and pricing finalized in early October. The issue could exceed $10 billion, depending on investor interest. The discussion highlights the quiet summer in the bond market and questions whether investor appetite remains strong, especially given Saudi Arabia's economic challenges and reforms. The Middle East bond market is seeing a buildup of issuance, with countries like Bahrain, Egypt, and Kuwait planning to raise funds to address funding gaps caused by lower oil prices.

When is the Saudi government expected to finalize the terms and pricing of their bond issue?

• After the Fed meeting in November

• In the first couple of weeks of October

• In the last week of October

• By the end of September

What was the outcome of Qatar's bond market activity in May?

• They raised $9 billion instead of $5 billion

• They raised $10 billion

• They postponed the bond issue

• They raised $5 billion as planned

What factors are challenging Saudi Arabia's bond issuance?

• A comprehensive economic reform program and low oil prices

• A quiet summer with little activity

• High oil prices

• Strong investor confidence

Which countries have already mandated banks for bond issuance?

• UAE and Jordan

• Saudi Arabia and Qatar

• Bahrain and Egypt

• Kuwait and Oman

What is driving the large pipeline of bond issuance in the Middle East?

• Strong economic growth

• Government incentives

• Weaker oil prices creating a funding gap

• High investor demand