Why is the market opening now?

The kingdom has been spending at a record pace. It’s fighting a war in Yemen and Syria, and is pursuing a stimulus plan to avoid political unrest at home.

Growth in the nation’s $752 billion economy may slow to 2.5 percent in 2015 from 3.6 percent last year, according to economist estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Citibank Inc. says the kingdom could become a net oil importer by 2030.

Who cares?

MSCI Inc., for one. The global index provider, which serves 98 of the world’s 100 largest money managers, said this month it will seek feedback on the market’s accessibility before considering it for potential inclusion in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index.

Al-Ghamdi said on Monday that the country aims to be part of the gauge by 2017.

What are the key statistics?

The 170-member Tadawul All Share Index fell 0.9 percent on Monday after posting its biggest increase in almost two months yesterday. The gauge has advanced 15 percent this year, the most in the Middle East, and is trading at about 15 times estimated earnings, compared with about 12 times for the MSCI Emerging Market Index.

Trading is open from Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. in Riyadh to 3:30 p.m.

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