IslamicFinance.de

King Salman has reorganised his cabinet, removed princes from government roles, merged ministries and realigned succession since ascending to the throne in January. Half a year into his reign, Saudi companies have yet to market a single security in 2015, making it the country’s quietest start for Islamic sales in nine years. The inactivity in Saudi Arabia comes as more financial centres seek to compete in the sukuk market. Saudi Arabia is pursuing a $130 billion spending plan to diversify its economy away from oil, and has vowed to invest in major infrastructure projects. King Salman’s changes will impact many areas, especially financial markets. The country’s economy may expand 2.5 per cent this year, after growing at an average rate of 5.4 per cent in the previous four years.