Rula Shunnar: “Palestinian investor relief following certain political reforms”
Al-Quds Index surges 9% since the beginning of this month
Nablus, 21 May 2025
The Palestine Exchange’s Al-Quds Index has recovered, rising approximately 12% from its lowest point since the start of the aggression on the Gaza Strip. Most of this gain has occurred recently, with the index climbing about 9% since the beginning of this month, breaking through the 500-point barrier after a prolonged period below that level.
Commenting on this development, Rula Shunnar, Chairwoman of the Palestine Exchange, said: “These rises have come at this time due to Palestinian investors’ relief over certain political reforms, most notably the appointment of Hussein al-Sheikh as Vice President of the Palestinian Authority, President Mahmoud Abbas.” She also affirmed that the financial results of companies during the first quarter provide clear evidence of the resilience of Palestinian companies and their ability to adapt and respond quickly even to the toughest fluctuations.
Listed companies recorded profits of approximately $79 million in the first quarter—an increase of 50% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
Shunnar further commented on the recent distribution of cash dividends and shares by listed companies, stating: “Distributing over $100 million in dividends this year is highly significant in injecting liquidity into the Palestinian market, which is in dire need of it during these difficult times, especially for small shareholders.”
Moreover, the share of Palestine Development and Investment Company (PADICO) topped the market, rising 55% since the beginning of the year, following the company’s completion of a deal to sell shares held by its subsidiaries and the full subscription of a $120 million bond issuance. However, the stock sharply declined after a lawsuit was filed against PADICO in the United States over a month ago, related to the events of October 7, 2023, which the company dismissed as baseless. The share price soon rebounded, reaching its highest level in eight years, closing at $1.55, up 29% since the lawsuit was disclosed.
Shunnar praised the role of investors in the local stock market, who have repeatedly proven their commitment to Palestine and their trust in the Palestine Exchange and its publicly listed companies despite ongoing systematic attacks aimed at undermining it as a pillar of the Palestinian national economy—whether through the ongoing blockade or baseless lawsuits filed intermittently in U.S. courts. She confirmed that these challenges have only strengthened their confidence in the listed companies’ management and their ability to grow, face challenges, and remain resilient.
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