MUSCAT: Oman Arab Bank (OAB) saw its recent transformation into a public joint-stock company by listing its shares on the Muscat Securities Market (MSM) on July 6, 2020. This is the final step after the completion of its merger with Alizz Islamic Bank (AIB), which began nearly two years ago.
The ceremony saw the attendance of Khalid bin Mohammad al Zubair, Chairman of Oman International Development and Investment Company (OMINVEST), Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Balushi, Board Member of OAB, and Rashad bin Ali al Musafir, CEO of OAB. Also in attendance was Ahmed bin Saleh al Marhoon, Director General of Muscat Securities Market (MSM).
The total number of shares listed was 1,669,410,000, at a listing price equivalent to 213 baisas per share, with a total value equivalent to RO 355,584,330.
Commenting on this development, Rashad al Musafir stated, “We are proud to have the OAB shares listed on the MSM, following the success of our merger with AIB. The merger will see the creation of a major financial entity, comprising of both traditional and Islamic banking arms, allowing it to compete at local and regional levels. OAB’s decision to move forward with this important strategic step stems from our vision for the future of the national economy. This is built on stability and safety, thanks to the efforts of both the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, may his soul rest in peace, and the present leader of the Omani Renaissance, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The merger is also in line with efforts by the private sector to support the acceleration of the local economy.”
Al Musafir also extended his gratitude to the regulatory and supervisory entities for their efforts in supporting this project and playing an integral role in its success. Special thanks was given to the Central Bank of Oman, Capital Market Authority, Muscat Clearing & Depository, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, OAB, and AIB shareholders, who believed that this unifying decision is in the best interests of both banks.
The shareholders of OAB currently include Arab Bank (49 per cent), Oman International Development and Investment Company (OMINVEST) (31.63 per cent), with the remaining 19.37 per cent owned by AIB shareholders and others. After OAB’s shares were listed on the MSM, everyone will be able to continue the trade process as usual.
OAB has a rich and proud history as one of the first financial institutions established in the Sultanate. Today, the bank operates a nationwide network of 65 branches and representative offices with 152 ATMs spread across Oman. OAB provides a complete range of financial products and services for personal banking and corporate banking clients.
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