SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks 2024 Awards for Fifth Consecutive Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank, with direct presence in Bahrain, KSA, and UAE, was named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2024 Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks Awards for the fifth consecutive year. The award affirms SICO’s ability to deliver advisory services and execute complex transactions across a broad spectrum of sectors consistently and efficiently.

Gulf Tamin Acquires 13.85% Stake in Bahrain-listed Arab Insurance Group

Gulf Tamin Ltd, a consortium led by Lepercq, de Neuflize & Co, a New York based financial company, and Callaway Capital Management LLC, a U.S. based hedge fund, today acquired 13.85% of Arab Insurance Group (ARIG).

Gulf Tamin Ltd. was advised by SICO BSC (c), a leading GCC investment bank, and legal advisors Trowers & Hamlins and Zu’bi and Partners.

SCA launches new scheme to refund cash held in dormant accounts opened with brokerage firms

As part of its keen efforts to pay back to investors their unclaimed cash held in dormant accounts opened with brokerage firms, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has the pleasure to announce the start of receiving payback requests to ensure the delivery of fast services that meet investor needs and expectations. This will be done according to the following channels and procedures:
The payback request should be submitted to the brokerage firm, along with the following documents and information:

SICO Maintains First Place Ranking on the Bahrain Bourse for 25 Years

SICO, a leading GCC asset manager, investment bank, and brokerage with direct presence in Bahrain, KSA, and UAE, proudly announces its continued dominance as the Number One Broker on the Bahrain Bourse (BHB) for the 25 th consecutive year, securing a market share of 47.16%. SICO executed a total of 12,510 transactions throughout 2023, involving 736.4 million shares, with a total value reaching BHD 191.9 million, while capturing the bulk of block trades during the year. SICO remains the broker of choice for institutional and individual clients in the Bahraini market and the region, offering clients value-added services, including its online trading platform, SICO LIVE, and a research portal that provides regional insights and analyses for the majority of the region’s listed companies.

SICO Announces the Conclusion of the Sale and Transfer Agreement of Novotel Al Dana Resort to Gulf Hotels Group in Bahrain

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announces the completion of its advisory to Al Jazeera Tourism Company (AJTC) on their sale of 100% of Novotel Al Dana Resort in Bahrain to Gulf Hotels Group.

Bassam Abdulaziz Noor Appointed as New Chief Executive Officer of SICO Capital in Saudi Arabia

SICO, a leading GCC asset manager, investment bank, and brokerage with direct presence in Bahrain, KSA, and UAE is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Bassam Abdulaziz Noor as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its fully owned subsidiary, SICO Capital Company in Saudi Arabia, effective 1 January, 2024.

SICO Publishes Latest GHG Report

SICO announced today the release of the latest GHG (Greenhouse Gas) report, a crucial step in measuring and monitoring its impact on the environment. The report quantifies the carbon emissions resulting from the Bank’s daily activities and operations, providing valuable insights into its environmental footprint.

Beyon Money Launches Flexi Savings in Partnership with SICO

Manama, Bahrain: Beyon Money, part of the Beyon Group, and SICO, a leading regional asset manager and Investment Bank have partnered to launch Flexi Savings, a flexible Investment Product for Beyon Money customers, the first of its kind in Bahrain and MENA region.

SICO Publishes Its Third Annual Investor Returns Requirements in the GCC Report, Mapping Investor Expectations and Regional Outlook

The online survey kicked off in September this year, compiling data from C-Suite executives, investment and fund managers, business owners, and institutional investors representing a diverse mix of GCC enterprises, multinational companies (both listed and private), and government entities. The survey sought responses on the overall economic outlook and minimum unleveraged return requirements for various asset classes, including listed equities, government bonds, real estate, private equity, cash deposits and cryptocurrency for all six countries in the GCC. The survey also touched on the issues which are currently of the most concern to investors. This year, the survey gathered diverse viewpoints from 190 respondents across the GCC.

SICO Announces Appointment of Abdulla Ahmed Kamal as New Chairman of its Board of Directors

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today the appointment of Abdulla Ahmed Kamal as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors effective immediately, during the board meeting held on Monday, April 10, 2023. The move follows the resignation of Shaikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, who leaves his post after being appointed to a new role as the CEO of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, as per the royal directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2023 Euromoney Awards for Excellence

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it was named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2023 Euromoney Awards for Excellence for the fifth time

SICO and the Supreme Council of Women Announce the Winners of the “Trading in Financial Markets” Programme

SICO in collaboration with the Supreme Council of Women (SCW), announced today the successful conclusion of the "Trading in Financial Markets" programme empowering 44 Bahraini women with valuable knowledge and experience in global financial market trading. The programme covered trading fundamentals, various types of investment instruments, stock market analysis, developing trading strategies, and risk management.

SICO Concludes Annual General Meetings; Approves 5% Dividends

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it concluded on 27 March 2023 its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the bank’s premises in the Bahrain World Trade Center with the presence of 97.24% of the share capital. All shareholders present, with the sole exception of the SICO employee share trust who abstained from voting, approved the items in the AGM agenda including the Board of Directors’ proposed distribution of the dividend of 5% of the share capital, aggregating to BD 2.207 million (USD 5.9 million) after completion of the necessary regulatory formalities.

SICO Partners with Wafra International Investment Company to Launch Elzaad Sukuk Fund

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has announced today the launch of Elzaad Sukuk Fund in partnership with Wafra International Investment Company, the wealth management provider . SICO will act as the fund manager and Wafra as the investment advisor, with the Central Bank of Bahrain as the regulator.

SICO’s Sovereign & Quasi Sovereign Fixed Income Strategy Wins Best MENA Fixed Income Fund Strategy

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has announced that its Sovereign & Quasi Sovereign Fixed Income Strategy has been named the Best MENA Fixed Income Fund Strategy by the Bonds, Loans & Sukuk Middle East Awards 2023.

SICO Launches Comprehensive Research App

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announces the launch of its comprehensive research app, which facilitates access to the bank’s extensive GCC research portfolio of stocks, providing clients with a seamless user experience. SICO’s sell-side research team has been actively researching GCC markets since 1995 and its recent app launch is a continuation of its commitment to enhance its service towards its brokerage clients.

SICO Shares Insights into Bahrain’s Economic Recovery and Fiscal Balance

This in-depth report objectively discusses Bahrain’s economic growth, fiscal position, debt trajectory, strategic investments, and projects aligned. It sheds light on the progress of the fiscal balance program against the targets set, as well as the risks and challenges that Bahrain might face.

SICO Appoints Maryam AlMohri as Acting Chief Risk Officer

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today the appointment of Maryam AlMohri as Acting Chief Risk Officer. This step underscores SICO’s commitment to developing its human capital and appointing the best qualified talents in senior positions in order to achieve the bank’s growth goals.

BLFC appoints SICO as an advisor for the potential M&A deal

Bahrain Family Leisure Company B.S.C (BFLC) and DGC Hospitality & Partners, the food and beverage investment arm of Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) have signed an MOU in October 2022 for a potential M&A transaction between the two companies. SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has been appointed as advisor to BFLC on the M&A deal. Grant Thornton has been appointed as the advisor to DGC Hospitality. The two leading players in Bahrain’s food & beverage (F&B) and hospitality sector have signed an MOU to explore the possibility of a potential consolidation between the companies, which would result in a powerful market player with improved efficiencies and an increased market share.

SICO Maintains First Place Ranking on Bahrain Bourse

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has maintained its position as the Number One Broker on the Bahrain Bourse (BHB) for the 24th consecutive year, with a market share of 50.89%.

SICO Announces the execution of the Sale Purchase Agreement for the Sale of Novotel Al Dana Resort in Bahrain

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announces the completion of a key milestone of its advisory to Al Jazeera Tourism Company (AJTC) on the execution of a sale and purchase agreement for 100% of Novotel Al Dana Resort in Bahrain to Gulf Hotels Group.

SICO Wins MENA’s Best Sukuk Manager and Bahrain’s Asset Manager and Broker of the Year 2022

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has been recognized for the exemplary performance of its asset management and brokerage teams by the Global Investor Group MENA Awards 2022. SICO was named MENA ’s Best Sukuk Manager, as well as Bahrain’s Asset Manager and Broker of the Year.

SICO Publishes Its Second Annual Investor Returns Requirements in the GCC Report, Mapping Investor Expectations and Regional Outlook

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank licensed as a conventional wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain “CBB”, published its second annual investor return assessment survey, offering an inside look into the economic and return expectations of investors across the GCC.

SICO ‘s Top-20 Portfolio Outperforms its GCC Benchmark by 67% generating returns of 152% in five years

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that SICO Top-20, its equally weighted diversified GCC Equities portfolio, has generated a cumulative return of 152% since its launch in November 2017.

SICO Completes 100% Acquisition of SICO Capital

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has acquired the remaining 27.29% stake held by Bank Muscat in SICO Capital, a Saudi based full-fledged capital markets services provider.

SICO shares Insights into Oman - Economic Developments in 2022

SICO shared insights into Oman’s current economic climate in a report analyzing progress in achieving targets set forth in Oman’s tenth five-year fiscal and economic plan covering 2021- 2025, including debt management, fiscal reforms, and attracting FDI.

Kuwait Finance House K.S.C.P. Shares Commence Trading on Bahrain Bourse

Bahrain Bourse, a self-regulated multi-asset marketplace, announced on 6th October, 2022 the cross-listing and commencement of trading of Kuwait-based Kuwait Finance House K.S.C.P., under the trading symbol ‘KFH’. To commemorate the commencement of trading of KFH shares, a ringing bell ceremony was held in the presence of Minister of Industry and Commerce & Minister in Charge of Bahrain Bourse, HE Mr. Zayed R. Alzayani, and Chairman of Kuwait Finance House (KFH), Mr. Hamad Abdulmohsen Al Marzouq and executive management of KFH along with CEOs of listed companies, representatives from the CBB, Board Members, and executive management of Bahrain Bourse.

Final Results of Kuwait Finance House K.S.C.P. (KFH) Acquisition of Bahrain-Based Ahli United Bank (AUB) in USD 10.9 Billion Deal

The final results of the landmark USD 10.9 billion acquisition of up to 100% of Ahli United Bank B.S.C. (AUB) by Kuwait Finance House K.S.C.P. (KFH) were announced today. SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), acted as Bahrain receiving agent, Bahrain execution advisor, and cross-listing advisor on the deal, which was structured by way of a voluntary conditional offer by KFH to AUB shareholders to acquire up to 100% of AUB’s issued and paid-up ordinary shares.

SICO Signs Agreement with Bank Muscat to Acquire Remaining 27.29% Stake in SICO Capital for BD 1.9 Million

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has signed an agreement with Bank Muscat to acquire the remaining 27.29% stake held by Bank Muscat in SICO Capital, a Saudi based full-fledged capital markets services provider.

SICO Publishes its Inaugural Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Report

SICO is one of the first financial institutions in Bahrain to publish a GHG report, taking a step towards becoming more conscious of its carbon footprint in order to determine the areas that are most pressing and require more immediate attention.

CFA Society Bahrain & SICO launch “Women in Investment (WIM)” Programme

CFA Society- Bahrain, the local society of the CFA Institute, has partnered with SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), to launch a Women in Investment (WIM) Boot Camp Programme which marks the commencement of a new flagship programme focused on developing women in the investment management field.

SICO Announces Launch of eKYC Services for its Online Platform, SICO LIVE, in Partnership with The BENEFIT Company

Using the best in-class eKYC processes, SICO is revolutionizing its customer onboarding experience for users of its SICO LIVE online trading platform. SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announces that it has launched a simplified digital onboarding process for its SICO LIVE online trading platform, empowering customers in Bahrain to open an account using only two IDs and a selfie through eKYC service by BENEFIT.

SICO Advises on Fixed Income Investment Strategies Amid Current Market Conditions

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), highlighted in a recent note to investors the challenges facing emerging and GCC capital markets posed by high inflation and an aggressive US Federal Reserve rate hike schedule.

SICO Appoints New Chief Risk Officer and Head of Middle Office

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today the appointments of Owen Vallis as Chief Risk Officer and Nimita Nazer as Head of Middle Office.

SICO Concludes Annual and Extraordinary General Meetings Remotely; Approves 8% Dividends

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it concluded on 23 March 2022 its Annual General (AGM) and Extraordinary Meetings(EGM) where 94.48% of the shareholders approved

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks 2022 Awards for Third Consecutive Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), was once again recognized as the Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2022 Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks awards for the third consecutive year. The award stands as yet another affirmation of SICO’s ability to deliver advisory services and execute complex deals across a wide spectrum of sectors, consistently and efficiently.

SICO’s Bahrain Liquidity Fund Concludes 2021 with a return of 11.4%

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a conventional wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain “CBB”, announced today that the Bahrain Liquidity Fund (BLF), now in its sixth year, has continued to make a major impact on the average daily traded volume (ADTV) of the Bahrain Bourse. The Bahrain Bourse ADTV has reached BD 800,000 (USD 2.1 million) in 2021.

SICO Appoints Shaikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar as Newest Board Member

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has expanded the size of its Board of Directors to ten members from nine. Shaikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar, CEO of Bank Muscat, has been appointed as non-independent Executive Director of the Bank. Bank Muscat, which owns a 10.38% stake in SICO has nominated Shaikh Waleed Khamis Al Hashar as its representative in SICO’s Board after obtaining the approval from the regulator.

SICO Maintains First Place Ranking on Bahrain Bourse

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has been named the Number One Broker on the Bahrain Bourse (BHB), a position it has retained for 23 consecutive years, with a market share of 59.62%

SICO Wins MENA’s BestEquities Asset Manager and MENA’s Best Sukuk Asset Manager of the Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has won top honors in four categories at the 2021 Global Investor Group MENA Awards for the exemplary performance of the Bank’s asset management and brokerage teams. SICO was named the MENA region’s Sukuk Manager and Equities Asset Manager of the Year, as well as Bahrain’s Asset Manager and Broker of the Year. The recognition comes on the heels of multiple awards received by SICO in 2021 and attests to SICO’s solid track record and ability to deliver to its clients healthy risk-adjusted returns over the long term.

SICO Publishes its First Annual Investor Return Requirements in the GCC Report

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), has released the results of its inaugural investor return assessment survey, a first of its kind look into the economic and return expectations of investors across the GCC.

The BIBF and SICO to launch the Digital Ambassadors Programme

Manama: The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), signed an agreement with SICO BSC(c) (SICO) to deliver the ‘Digital Ambassadors’ programme aimed at providing Bahraini youth with the digital knowledge and skills they will need to tackle the professional challenges of the digital transformation.

Bloomberg Supports SICO's Digital Transformation Journey

Bloomberg announced today that SICO, a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker, and investment bank, has adopted Bloomberg’s Asset & Investment Manager (AIM) to increase efficiency and transparency across its order management workflow.

SICO Appoints Mohamed AlAbbas as Head of Distribution and Business Development

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today the appointment of Mohammed Abdulaziz Alabbas as its new Head of Distribution and Business Development.

SICO Unveils Newly Rebranded Saudi-based Investment Bank SICO Capital

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), today unveiled its newly rebranded subsidiary, SICO Capital, a full-fledged capital markets services provider based in Saudi Arabia.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at 2021 Euromoney Awards for Excellence for Third Consecutive Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it was named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2021 Euromoney Awards for Excellence for the third consecutive year.

SICO Prioritises Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), continues to champion the cause of diversity and inclusion with the successful completion of a 4-day interactive online diversity and inclusion training for members of its management team. The workshop, led by leadership, diversity and inclusion specialist Bushra Winter, is an integral component of SICO’s ongoing strategy to incorporate inclusive practices that empower and create equal opportunities for its employees.

SICO Concludes Annual General Meeting via Teleconferencing; Approves 5% Cash Dividend

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it concluded on 23 March 2021 its Annual General Meeting (AGM) after establishing 100 percent quorum . During the meeting the shareholders approved the items in the AGM agenda including the Board of Directors’ proposed distribution of BD 2.142 million in cash dividends for the financial year ended 31 December 2020 (5% of the nominal share value), representing 5 Bahraini fils per share. Shareholders also approved the transfer of BD 296 thousand to the statutory reserve, BD 40 thousand to charitable donations (Corporate Social Responsibility) and the remaining sum of BD 481 thousand to the retained earnings account.

SICO Successfully Completes Acquisition of Saudi-based Investment Bank Muscat Capital

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has completed the transaction to acquire a majority stake amounting to 72.7% in the Saudi-based Muscat Capital, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank Muscat after obtaining all relevant approvals.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks 2021 Awards for Second Consecutive Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), was named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2021 Global Finance World's Best Investment Banks awards for the second consecutive year. The prestigious recognition is the latest in a long list of accolades that SICO has received over the years for its consistent ability to adapt to challenging market conditions and deliver exceptional results.

SICO Plants 1000 Trees along the 16th December highway

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has successfully completed an initiative to plant 1000 trees along the 16th December highway in cooperation with the Southern Area Municipality and the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIADBH). The location of the project was selected due to its proximity to the main school district in Isa Town and will seek to increase the green areas, improve air quality, promote a healthier environment for the local community, and help combat climate change.

SICO Retains Number One Broker Status on Bahrain Bourse

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it had retained its status as the leading broker on the Bahrain Bourse (BHB) for the 22nd consecutive year.

SICO Named MENA Fixed Income Manager of the Year and Bahrain’s Asset Manager of the Year

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), was named MENA region’s Fixed Income Manager of the Year and Bahrain Asset Manager of the Year at the 2020 Global Investor Group MENA Awards. The accolades are the latest among numerous awards received by SICO and serve as testament to its operational excellence and solid track record across the GCC region.

SICO Signs Agreement to Acquire Majority Stake in Saudi- Based Muscat Capital

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has signed an agreement with Bank Muscat SAOG to acquire a majority stake amounting to 72.71% in Saudi-based Muscat Capital, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank Muscat.

SICO to embed IdealRatings ESG data, marking a new era for MENA investors

SICO BSC (c) a leading regional asset manager, broker, research house and investment bank, announced that it will begin embedding IdealRatings’ ESG data to be available as part of SICO’s research platform. This initiative by SICO is among the first in the MENA region to highlight ESG performance in company reports and comes as a response to the increasing demand for ESG data by clients.

SICO Perceives Strong Outlook for Major Players in Saudi Insurance Market

In the short-term, SICO perceives a positive outlook for the insurance market. Insurers in the healthcare sector should expect a temporary boost to their earnings owing to lower claims in 2Q20 as a result of less frequent hospital visits due to the coronavirus lockdown.

SICO Signs Agreement with Bahrain Bourse Offering New Sukuk-based Murabaha Service

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has signed an agreement to begin offering the Bahrain Bourse’s newly established sukuk-based Murabaha service, launched in collaboration with the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), when conducting Islamic commodity Murabaha financing transactions with sukuks as collateral. The announcement was made at a virtual signing ceremony held on 14 July 2020 between SICO, The CBB and The Bahrain Bourse.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank, Best Asset Manager and Best Securities Brokerage in Bahrain

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), received a number of prestigious industry awards from Euromoney, Global Finance, and Global Banking and Finance. Among the accolades received were

SICO Sponsors the 44th Annual ICA Conference

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), is a lead sponsor of the annual ICA Conference held this year in Bahrain on 24-25 October under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister of Bahrain.

SICO Concludes Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting by Circulation; Approves 10% Cash Dividend

SICO BSC, announced today that it concluded on 24 March 2020 its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) where 94.80% of the shareholders approved the items in the AGM and EGM agendas including the Board of Directors’ proposed distribution of BD 3.899 million in cash dividends for the financial year ended 31 December 2019 (10% of the nominal share value), representing 10 Bahraini fils per share.

SICO Appointed as Bahrain Receiving Agent, Bahrain Execution Advisor, and Cross-Listing Advisor for Kuwait Finance House’s Offer to Acquire 100% of Ahli United Bank

The cross-border acquisition would create a USD104 bn regional banking powerhouse that is set to become the world’s largest Islamic bank in terms of assets.

SICO's Bahrain Liquidity Fund Ends 2019 with Boost to Liquidity and Performance on Bahrain Bourse

The Fund was established in 2016 with the aim of improving the Bahrain Bourse's average daily trading volume.

SICO Sponsors Simulation Training Program for University Students at BIBF

The five-day simulation program is conducted by the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) for 12 students from the University of Bahrain and Bahrain Polytechnic.

4 days left for submissions of acceptances for the NBB offer to acquire BISB

The voluntary acquisition of Bahrain Islamic Bank (BISB) by National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) will close this week on January 15, 2020.

National Bank of Bahrain offer to acquire Bahrain Islamic Bank receives the required minimum threshold of BISB shareholders acceptances and is now unconditional as to acceptances

An official announcement has been made that the National bank of Bahrain (NBB) offer to acquire Bahrain Islamic Bank (BISB) is now unconditional as to acceptances after 47.64% of Bahrain Islamic Bank shareholders have accepted the offer. Therefore, the condition of 70% ownership by NBB of the issued share capital of BISB has been met as confirmed by SICO the Issue Execution Advisor, Receiving Agent and Allotment Agent.

SICO Named Issue Execution Advisor, Receiving Agent, and Allotment Agent in National Bank of Bahrain Acquisition of Bahrain Islamic Bank

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that it has been recently appointed as issue execution advisor, receiving agent, and allotment agent in the proposed voluntary acquisition of Bahrain Islamic Bank(BISB) by National Bank of Bahrain (NBB). It is set to be one of Bahrain’s largest transactions to date and comes amid a raft of mergers and acquisitions throughout the banking sector in the GCC as banks look to cost savings, synergies, and efficiencies.

SICO Appoints Naser Obaid as New CEO for Subsidiary “SICO Funds Services Company BSC (c)”

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today the appointment of Naser Obaid as CEO of its wholly owned Bahrain-based subsidiary,“SICO Funds Services Company BSC (c) “(SFS). The appointment is part of SICO’s efforts to enhance its management team and bring industry veterans into the fold to help the company see out its growth plans. “We’re delighted to have someone with Naser’s capabilities and expertise join our team at SFS,” said Najla Al-Shirawi, CEO at SICO and Chairperson of SFS. “We are confident that his track record in leading trust and fund service providers, combined with his extensive experience in structured products and regional regulations will prove invaluable to transforming the company’s operations. We look forward to seeing our custody and other funds and portfolio services armthrive under his leadership.”

Saudi Capital Markets Authority Gives SICO Regulatory Approval to Offer Asset Management Services in the Kingdom

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), announced today that its Saudi subsidiary, SICO Financial Saudi Company (under formation) has received a license from the Saudi Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to manage private non-real-estate investment funds and sophisticated investor portfolios in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

SICO Appointed Investment Manager for Minors’ Estate Directorate’s Fixed-Income and Equity Portfolio

SICO announced that it has been appointed by the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs & Endowments as the investment manager for the fixed-income and equity portfolio of the Minors’ Estate Directorate. The deal was signed by the Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs & Endowments and Chairman of the Minors’ Estate Directorate His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa and SICO’s Chief Executive Officer Ms. Najla Al Shirawi.

Four Bahraini University Students Inducted into SICO’s Annual Summer Internship programme

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank, welcomed four students from University of Bahrain and University of Bangor, as well as a candidate from the Supreme Council for Women to its annual summer internship programme. The initiative forms part of SICO’s on-going corporate social responsibility efforts, which focus on educating youth as one of their central pillars.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2019 Euromoney Middle East Awards for Excellence

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), was named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain at the 2019 Euromoney Middle East Awards.

SICO Sponsors Fourth Annual Middle East Asset Management Forum

SICO’s Head of Fixed Income Asset Management, will join regional and international experts from prominent regional and international organizations on a panel to discuss the outlook on Fixed Income with a particular focus on Sukuk

SICO Kingdom Equity Fund Ends 2018 as the Best Performing Saudi Fund in the Region

The SICO Kingdom Equity Fund continues to outperform its benchmark index by a healthy margin ending the year as the top performing Saudi fund in the region with an annual return of 23% vs. an index return of 8.3%

SICO announces BD3.085 million cash dividend

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB), held an annual general meeting (AGM) on 25 March 2019 at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Bahrain after establishing a quorum of 100% representing 385,638,970 votes. At attendance were representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, the CBB, and the Bahrain Bourse.

SICO Announces New Management Appointments

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker and investment bank (licensed as a conventional wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain “CBB”), announced today the appointment of Haitham Haji and Jithesh Gopi as the newest members of its management team. The appointments are part of an ongoing effort to enhance the management team and introduce fresh perspectives as SICO moves forward with its growth plans.

SICO sponsors a simulation training programme for university Students at BIBF

Sponsored by SICO a leading regional asset manager, broker and investment bank, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) recently held a specialised trading simulation course entitled ‘Bank Management Simulation’ for 12 students from the University of Bahrain (UoB) and Bahrain Polytechnic.

The SICO Fixed Income Fund Ends 2018 as Best Performing GCC Bond Fund

The SICO Fixed Income Fund manages to outperform peers delivering positive returns of 1.9% in most challenging year for emerging markets fixed income in over a decade.

Batelco Announces the Appointment of SICO as Market Maker on its Shares

Batelco Group (ticker : BATELCO) today announced the appointment of SICO BSC (c) as the designated market maker for Batelco with respect to the company’s ordinary shares listed on the Bahrain Bourse

SICO’s Bahrain Liquidity Fund Ends 2018 with a Boost to Liquidity and Performance on the Bahrain Bourse

BD42.5 million Bahrain Liquidity Fund was established with the aim of improving the average daily trading volume of the Bahrain Bourse—since inception in 2016 the Fund has contributed to a sustainable increase in trading volumes.

APM Terminals Shares Commences Trading on Bahrain Bourse

Bahrain Bourse announced on 9th December 2018 the listing of APM Terminals Bahrain (‘APMT”) under the trading symbol APMTB

SICO Announces Final Statistics on Highly-Successful Oversubscribed APM Terminals Bahrain IPO offered shares

Statistics indicate that the BHD 11.880 million initial public offering attracted a broad investor base and strong demand from reputed family offices, international and regional asset managers.

APM Terminals Bahrain Announces the Provisional Results and Allotment Basis of IPO with an Oversubscription on Both Retail and Institutional Tranches

IPO was met with strong demand resulting in an oversubscribed offer with funded applications totaling an overall oversubscription resulted from funded applications 5.4 X the offer size.

6 days left until the application deadline for APM Terminals Bahrain Initial Public Offering (IPO)

Manama, Bahrain. The Initial Public Offering of APM Terminals Bahrain, offered at BHD 0.660 per share for a total of 20% of the company’s issued share capital, will culminate this week on November 24th.

Institutional and Retail Investor Sentiment is Positive as Offer Period for APM Terminals Bahrain IPO Commences

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker and investment bank (licensed as a conventional wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain “CBB”), announced today that indications thus far show positive investor appetite for Bahrain’s BHD 11.880 mn APM Terminals Bahrain IPO which opened for subscriptions on November 8th.

APM Terminals Bahrain announces its BHD 11.8m Initial Public Offering (IPO)

Bahrain Bourse, Bahrain. APM Terminals Bahrain, the exclusive operator of Bahrain’s Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), has announced the initial public offering (IPO) of 18,000,000 of its shares.

IPO Summary Prospectus

Initial Public offering of 18,000,000 existing shares , equivalent to 20% of APM Terminals Bahrain B.S.C. (c)’s issued share capital , at an offer price of BHD 0.660 per share

SICO Hosts Workshop in Collaboration with Bahraini CFA Society

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank (licensed as a wholesale bank by the CBB) organized a workshop for local media entities, in collaboration with the Bahraini CFA Society, on the analysis of financial statements and the impact of pressing issues in capital markets on company performance. The workshop was delivered by Mahmoud Nawar, president of the Bahraini CFA Society, on Saturday October 13th at the Capital Club in Bahrain.

GCC Inclusion in JP Morgan EMBI Index is Expected to Bring in USD 30-60 bn in Inflows to the GCC Sovereign Credit Market by the End of 2019

The GCC fixed income market is expected to benefit from inclusion in the renowned JP Morgan EMBI Index according to SICO’s latest investment strategy report. Starting 31st January 2019, sovereign bonds and Sukuks from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar will gradually gain inclusion on the JP Morgan EMBI Index, which already includes Oman.

Kuwait equity market set to woo investors and outperform peers

The Kuwaiti equity market is catching the eye of global investors following its FTSE upgrade to emerging market status and its expected reclassification in MSCI’s Emerging Markets Index.

Dubai Financial Market accredits SICO as market maker and liquidity provider

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, market maker and investment bank, has been accredited to provide liquidity and act as market maker for companies listed on Dubai Financial Market (DFM).

SICO CEO Najla Al Shirawi makes Forbes 2018 list of Most Influential Women in the Middle East for the fourth consecutive year

SICO proudly announces that CEO, Najla Al Shirawi has been included on the Forbes 2018 List of 100 Most Influential Women in the Middle East. 2018 marks the fourth consecutive year that Al Shirawi has made the list which includes accomplished female leaders from both the public and private sectors in diverse fields such as finance, technology and oil & gas.

Abu Dhabi securities exchange (ADX) admits SICO as first none-UAE-based registered market maker

In line with its strategy to enhance the UAE’s investment structure and support its sustainable economic growth, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), the region’s leading financial market, has awarded SICO with the first non-UAE license to serve as Market Maker, making it the fifth registered Market Maker on the Exchange. The announcement came at a bell-ringing ceremony on ADX’s trading floor, which was attended by members of ADX and SICO executive management.

Five Bahraini University students inducted into SICO's annual summer internship programme

SICO BSC (c), a leading regional asset manager, broker, and investment bank, welcomed five students from University of Bahrain and Manchester Metropolitan University to its annual summer internship programme. The initiative forms part of SICO’s on-going corporate social responsibility efforts, which focus on educating youth as one of their central pillars.

SICO launches premier issue of Radius

SICO's first corporate newsletter of 2018 displays the bank's new corporate identity and presents news and financial information in a more user-friendly manner that achieves greater transparency with both clients and the general public.

SICO appointed as market maker for Bank ABC

Central Bank of Bahrain approves Bank ABC’s market making arrangement to support liquidity in ABC share price

Investors anticipate significant surge in Saudi equity market. Focus on index inclusion, reform and rising corporate profitability

The Saudi equity market is gaining momentum as it heads for possible inclusion in MSCI’s influential emerging market index in 2018, following the FTSE upgrade as an emerging market last month.

Bahrain announces $1 billion energy project fund

Bahrain has announced the launch of a new energy fund, a first-of-its-kind in the GCC that will provide institutional investors with access to portfolio of energy projects.

SICO appointed lead manager and underwriter for IPO by APM Terminals

The Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications’ His Excellency Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed announced that APM Terminals Bahrain B.S.C. (c), the exclusive port operator of the Kingdom’s Khalifa Bin Salman Port, has appointed SICO BSC (c), a leading asset manager, brokerage and investment bank, as its lead manager and underwriter for the company’s initial public offering (IPO). The IPO, which is expected to be launched in late October, will offer 20% of the company’s paid up capital to investors and list on the Bahrain Bourse.

SICO Annual General Meeting Approves BD 1.928 Million Cash Dividend

SICO is the first broker in the region to connect online trading with real-time electronic cash management. SICO LIVE now provides clients with immediate access to funds deposited with all retail banks in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

SICO Unveils New Corporate Identity

SICO announced the rollout of its new name and brand identity. More than just a visual overhaul, the rebranding marks a new chapter in SICO’s history and delves deeper into its core reflecting the Bank’s heritage as well as its new reality.

SICO LIVE Becomes the First Regional Online Platform to Offer E-settlement and Electronic Cash Transfer Facilities

The leading regional asset manager, broker and investment bank, became the first broker in the region to connect its online trading with real-time electronic cash management and FAWATEER settlement services through clients’ accounts with all retail banks on a national level. SICO’s online trading platform SICO LIVE provides clients with immediate access to their funds deposited with all retail banks in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which allows for seamless securities trading on the Bahrain Bourse and all other regional stock exchanges. This is a major enhancement to the previous method of settling trading transactions, whereby clients had to pre-fund their investment accounts before they could begin trading.

SICO Appoints Chief Capital Markets Officer and Head of Brokerage

The leading regional asset manager, broker and investment bank (licensed as a conventional whole sale bank by the CBB), today announced the appointment of Fadhel Makhlooq as Chief Capital Markets Officer, a newly created role in which Fadhel will be developing and managing the capital market business for SICO which encompasses brokerage, sell-side research and treasury.

SICO LIVE to Offer Online Real-Time Trading

In line with the Bourse's efforts to facilitate accessibility of trading, Bahrain Bourse (BHB) announced the joining of SICO to the “Bahrain Trade” network, offering its SICO LIVE online trading solution. SICO LIVE is an innovative online trading platform that enables clients of retail banks to trade on Bahrain Bourse (BHB) via the “Bahrain Trade” platform.

SICO UAE Becomes Member of NASDAQ Dubai’s Equity Derivatives Market to Offer Clients New Investment Tools

Securities & Investment Company UAE (SICO UAE) has joined Nasdaq Dubai’s derivatives market as a Member, in order to provide its clients with new opportunities to take positions on regional share markets.

SICO Named Best Investment Bank in Bahrain

SICO BSC (c ), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, was named ‘Best Investment Bank in Bahrain’ at both the World Finance Banking Awards 2017 and the Global Finance 18th annual World’s Best Investment Banks 2017 Awards.

SICO and BENEFIT Partner to Offer Payment and Settlement Services for Equities Online Trading

SICO BSC (c), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, and BENEFIT Company, the Kingdom’s conduit for all electronic financial transactions, announced that retail investors will soon have seamless trading access to the Bahrain Bourse through the state-of-the-art sicolive online platform.

Investors Anticipate Saudi Market Bonanza Focus on Index Inclusion, Reform and Rising Corporate Profitability

The Saudi equity market is set for a boost as it heads for possible inclusion in MSCI’s influential emerging market index in 2018. “In the meantime, active investors could reap early gains as corporate earnings should start increasing this year,” said Shakeel Sarwar, Head of Asset Management at SICO BSC.

Bahrain Development Bank Signs Custody Agreement with SICO Funds Services

Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) announced today the signing of an agreement with SICO Funds Services Company (SFS) to provide custody, fund administration and registrar services for their new fund, Al Waha Venture Capital Fund Company.

Trading in Eskan Bank REIT Is Now Open for Expatriates and Foreign Investors

The Eskan Bank Realty Income Trust announced today that following approval by the Central Bank of Bahrain, expatriates and foreign investors are now eligible to purchase and trade in units of the Trust on the Bahrain Bourse. The Trust, which is Bahrain’s first Sharia-compliant retail real estate investment trust (REIT), is the first to be listed on the Bourse and also the first unleveraged listed REIT in the GCC.

SICO Launches MENA-Wide Online Trading Platform

Securities & Investment Company (SICO), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, announced today the launch of a MENA-wide online brokerage trading platform – ’sicolive’. This seamless and secure multi-functional service will enable clients to trade in real time across all the region’s key markets from a single account that can be managed through their desktop computers, laptops and mobile devices.

Bahrain ‘At the Forefront’ of GCC Markets Development

Bahrain’s pioneering contribution to the on-going development of GCC capital markets during 2016, came under the spotlight yesterday at the 2nd Annual Middle East Asset Management Forum, which took place at the Gulf Hotel, Kingdom of Bahrain.

SICO Recognised as Leading Broker on Bahrain Bourse for 2016

Securities & Investment Company (SICO), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, announced today that it has maintained its status as the leading broker on the Bahrain Bourse for the 18th consecutive year.

GCC Debt Capital Markets Raised Record US$69 Billion in 2016

According to Securities & Investment Company (SICO) Fixed Income – Asset management market outlook , issuances from GCC debt capital markets set a new record in 2016, dominated by megadeals out of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Regional sovereigns raised total debt of US$ 69.1 billion during the year, outpacing the previous record set in 2014 by US$ 35.6 billion, as governments sought to plug their annual budget deficits amid a low oil price environment .

New General Manager for SICO Funds Services Company (SFS)

Securities & Investment Company (SICO), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) as a conventional wholesale bank, announced today the appointment of Mr. Sreenivasan Konnat as General Manager of SICO Funds Services Company (SFS), following confirmation by the CBB.

SICO Distributes BD 2.14 million Cash Dividend for 2016

The shareholders ofSecurities & Investment Company (SICO), which is licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, have approved the distribution of a cash dividend of BD 2.142 million for 2016, which represents 5 per cent of the paid-up capital. The dividend was recommended by SICO’s board of directors and approved by the shareholders at the Bank’s annual general meeting (AGM) held on Thursday 30 March 2017 at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Bahrain. The quorum at the AGM was 100 per cent.

SICO UAE Becomes Member of NASDAQ Dubai’s Expanding Market to Trade Equities

Securities & Investment Company UAE (SICO UAE) has joined Nasdaq Dubai as a Member to trade equities, in order to provide its clients with new investment opportunities on the region’s rapidly expanding international exchange.

Bahrain Liquidity Fund Significantly Boosts Bourse Turnover

Securities & Investment Company (SICO), licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, announced today that since its launch in June 2016, the US 100 million Bahrain Liquidity Fund has contributed to a substantial increase in volumes traded on the Bahrain Bourse.

Eskan Bank REIT Units Commence Trading on the Bahrain Bourse

Bahrain Bourse (BHB) announced on Monday 2nd January 2017 the listing and commence of trading onUnits of the Eskan Bank Realty Income Trust (under the symbol ‘EBRIT’. Marking the occasion of this historic listing, Eskan Bank General Manager Dr. Khalid Abdulla rang the opening bell at the Bourse in the presence of BHB Chief Executive Officer Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Securities & Investment Company (SICO) Chief Executive Officer Ms. Najla Al Shirawi, and other officials.

SICO and Trucial Sign a Strategic Partnership

Securities & Investment Company (SICO), licensed as a conventional wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain, announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Trucial Investment Partners, a specialist asset management and advisory firm based in the Dubai International Finance Centre.

SICO Sponsors a Simulated Training Programme for University Students at BIBF

Sponsored by Securities & Investment Company (SICO), the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) recently delivered a specialised trading simulation course entitled ‘Bank Management Simulation’ for 13 university students from the University of Bahrain and Bahrain Polytechnic.