The Saudi Central Bank says its net foreign assets grew to $431 billion in March

The Saudi Central Bank says its net foreign assets grew to $431 billion in March

The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) said its net foreign assets grew by about $21 billion in March. The total reached $431.1 billion (SAR 1.617 trillion), up from $409.8 billion (SAR 1.537 trillion) in the previous month, according to data released on Wednesday.

Central Bank’s Assets

Investment in foreign securities in March reached $260.17 billion (SAR 975.87 billion), down from $264.44 billion (SAR 991.92 billion) in February, according to SAMA data.

Deposits with banks abroad increased to $110.86 billion (SAR 415.82 billion) in March, up from $88.99 billion (SAR 333.78 billion) the month before.

Microfinance Operations

SAMA also announced that it has given Nayla Finance a license to operate in microfinance. This brings the total number of licensed finance companies in Saudi Arabia to 66.

This move is part of SAMA’s larger plan to strengthen the kingdom’s financial sector, improve financial services, and encourage innovation. It also helps improve financial inclusion by making sure services are available to everyone.

Digital Brokerage

On Monday, SAMA granted Tamawal a license to provide digital brokerage services to financing institutions. This increases the total number of licensed companies in this area to six.

This is part of SAMA’s broader plan to improve the financial sector, promote innovation, and make financial services more accessible and flexible. It also supports financial inclusion by ensuring services are available to all parts of society.

Boosting Digital Payments

In January, SAMA signed an agreement with Google to make Google Pay available in Saudi Arabia in 2025 through the Mada payment system. This is part of SAMA’s efforts to improve the digital payments system in the country.

Also in January, SAMA launched the eSAMA portal, allowing individuals, businesses, and government agencies to access SAMA’s services online. This is part of SAMA’s digital transformation plan.

Published: 1st May 2025

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