The government of Sharjah aims to raise approximately AED1bn ($272mn) through an auction of five-year Islamic bonds, or sukuk, according to a banking document seen by Reuters on Wednesday.
The outcome of this sukuk issuance could provide insights into investor appetite for Gulf debt and Sharjah's creditworthiness in particular, often being one of the weaker performers in the confederation.
The Central Finance Department of the emirate has set the maximum profit rate for the debt instruments at 6%, according to the document issued by one of the arranging banks.
The final yield and issuance size are expected to be announced later today.
On Tuesday, the Sharjah government appointed a consortium of banks to manage the auction. These include Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Bank of Sharjah, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD Capital, First Abu Dhabi Bank, HSBC, Invest Bank, Mashreq and Sharjah Islamic Bank.
This move comes as Gulf governments increasingly turn to debt markets to bolster their finances amidst economic challenges and fluctuating oil prices.
Gulf Cooperation Council states have expressed concern over European Union corporate sustainability legislation, warning that continued implementation could prompt Gulf companies to withdraw ... more
The 166th Gulf Cooperation Council ministerial meeting convened in Manama to prepare for the 46th session of the Supreme Council, with Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi ... more
TA’ZIZ has announced the signing of two-product sale agreement term sheets with India’s Sanmar Group, a global manufacturer of specialty chemicals. ... ... more