Overview:
The General Authority for Statistics released structural business data for 2025 showing operational revenue growth of 2.3% alongside operating expenses of 2.462 trillion riyal. Employee compensation rose 6% to 624 billion riyal. Separately, Saudi Arabia maintained its fourth consecutive year as the world's largest date exporter by value, recording 1.938 billion riyal in shipments—a 14.3% increase from 2024—reflecting sustained expansion in the agricultural sector.
Details:
Large enterprises continued to command the majority share across most business indicators, according to the statistics authority's report. Operating revenue growth of 2.3% reflects moderate expansion in the non-oil business economy, while employee compensation gains of 6% signal persistent wage pressure and hiring activity across sectors.
The date export achievement underscores Saudi Arabia's competitive position in global agricultural markets. Exports have climbed from 1.215 billion riyal in 2021 to their 2025 peak, marking a cumulative increase of 59.5% over five years. This sustained growth trajectory reflects both domestic production improvements and international demand for premium Saudi dates.
Gold prices declined 0.7% to $4,039 per ounce in Asian trade as investors evaluated Federal Reserve communications following the central bank's decision to hold interest rates within the 3.75–4% range. US crude oil inventories fell 2.03 million barrels during the week ending October 23, while gasoline and distillate stockpiles rose.
Outlook:
Investors are monitoring US inflation data for signals on future Federal Reserve monetary policy direction. Gold's price sensitivity to dollar strength and rate expectations remains a key watch point as markets price in potential policy adjustments.