ADX records 261% market cap ratio to lead Arab exchanges

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) recorded a market capitalisation-to-GDP ratio of 261.7% for the 2025 fiscal year, more than doubling the Arab regional average of 129.9%. The data, released by the Arab Federation of Capital Markets (AFCM), confirms Abu Dhabi’s position as the leading regional hub for capital depth relative to economic output. ADX outpaces regional average The ranking was announced on Wednesday, 30 September, at the AFCM Annual Conference and Gala Dinner hosted in the capital. The federation’s data indicates that the ADX now holds a capital-to-GDP density significantly higher than its peers, reflecting a rapid increase in listings and institutional participation over the past 24 months. The event brought together 600 participants, including global exchange heads, regulators, and institutional investors. Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group Chief Executive Officer of ADX Group, stated that the recognition would accelerate the exchange's plans to attract overseas issuers and enhance liquidity. Alnuaimi noted that the exchange intends to expand listings across diverse asset classes to maintain its role as a primary gateway for global capital in the Middle East. Expansion of institutional access The surge in market capitalisation is attributed to a series of high-profile Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and the integration of advanced trading technologies that have drawn international fund managers. The exchange is currently implementing initiatives to broaden…