Qatar: Qatar Stock Exchange closed the week with a significant 2.06 percent decline, shedding 220.98 points to end at 10,493. This downturn was observed across most sectors, except for the insurance sector, which saw a rise of 0.87 percent.

According to Qatar News Agency, financial analyst Mubarak Al Tamimi stated that the market experienced considerable selling pressure primarily from foreign portfolios. This pressure has contributed to a year-to-date decline of approximately 2.5 percent. The decline is attributed to geopolitical tensions and the anticipation of the second-quarter corporate results for 2026.

Al Tamimi highlighted that technical corrections might occur in the index before Eid Al Adha, with potential support identified near the 10,227-point mark. This level is seen as a possible accumulation zone for investors. He also warned that ongoing external pressures could drive the index down to 9,735 points. Despite the current weak liquidity, an improvement in market activity is anticipated by the month's end as investors look for opportunities.

He further noted that blue-chip stocks, especially in the financial sector, remain under selling pressure despite having strong fundamentals. This situation has led investors to adopt more defensive strategies. Al Tamimi advised investors to concentrate on companies with solid fundamentals, stable earnings, and dividends while avoiding speculative trading. He suggested waiting for the second-quarter results, which are expected to influence market direction in the second half of 2026.

Al Tamimi explained that a cautious sentiment continues to prevail among investors. He emphasized the growing importance of carefully selecting stocks, focusing on companies with robust financial fundamentals and the capability to maintain stable profits amid volatility in global and regional markets.