Oman’s OQ Gas Networks IPO Oversubscribed, Eyes Record-Breaking $771M, a Potential Milestone for the Country

Oman’s OQ Gas Networks IPO Oversubscribed, Eyes Record-Breaking $771M, a Potential Milestone for the Country

In a historic event, OQ Gas Networks SAOG, the gas pipelines unit of Omani state energy firm OQ SAOC, had its entire share offering snapped up just a day after the initial public offering (IPO) books were opened. The share sale, a part of Oman’s privatization drive, is projected to raise up to $771 million, potentially making it the largest listing in the country’s history. This would surpass the previous record set by Oman Telecommunications Co SAOG, which raised $748 million.

The Privatization Drive

OQGN is the second IPO in Oman’s privatization scheme, a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering state finances and nurturing the growth of its stock exchange. This follows a trend seen in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where similar initiatives have raised billions in recent years. The privatization program is Oman’s strategic move to diversify its economy, which has been traditionally reliant on oil revenues.

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Anchor Investors in the IPO

Key investors in OQGN’s IPO include Fluxys Belgium SA, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and the Qatar Investment Authority. Each of these entities is taking a 10 per cent stake of the offer, demonstrating their confidence in the potential of OQGN and the broader Omani economy. Other Middle Eastern companies, such as SAL Saudi Logistics Services Co. and Lumi Rental Co., have also experienced strong demand in their IPOs, reflecting a positive investment climate in the region.

Impacting the Omani Economy

The successful IPO of OQ Gas Networks is expected to have significant implications for the Omani economy. The funds raised through this listing will be used to bolster the company’s operations and contribute to Oman’s broader economic growth. The company holds a natural monopoly over Oman’s natural gas transport infrastructure and is the exclusive owner and operator of the company’s natural gas transportation network.

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Future Prospects

In addition to strengthening its current operations, OQGN has ambitious plans for the future. The company aims to expand its business and enter into hydrogen and become a player in the CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage). This move will position the company as a major player in the transportation of hydrogen. The IPO boom in the Middle East is a positive sign for the company and for the wider Omani economy, indicating a strong recovery from the economic slowdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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