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Most Gulf bourses fall on US tariff concerns, weaker oil

Most Gulf bourses fall on US tariff concerns, weaker oil

Arab News2 days ago
BENGALURU: Most Gulf stock indexes dipped on Tuesday, as investors worried about fading prospects of the EU's trade deal with the US ahead of a looming tariff deadline, with weak oil prices offsetting strong corporate earnings.
The EU is exploring broader counter-measures against the US as prospects of an acceptable trade agreement with Washington wane, according to EU diplomats.
US President Donald Trump's imposition of tariffs around the world risks hurting global economic growth, and with it oil consumption.
Dubai's main share index eased 0.3 percent, marking the third straight session of losses as investors remained cautious ahead of key earnings and locked in profits following a multi-year rally.
Index heavyweight Dubai Islamic Bank dropped 1.2 percent while budget carrier Air Arabia fell over 3 percent, ending a five-session winning streak.
In Abu Dhabi, the index was under pressure as a wave of earnings releases this week kept many investors on the sidelines.
Qatar's stock index reversed early losses to finish 1.1 percent higher, reaching its highest level in more than two and a half years, as nearly all sectors advanced.
Banking stocks led the advance, supported by strong earnings. Qatar Islamic Bank soared 6 percent, rising for a fourth straight session after reporting upbeat results.
Outside the Gulf, Egypt's blue-chip index declined 1 percent, pulling back from a record high.
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