More disinvestment soon

The government is mulling over the possible launch of two more Initial Public Offerings (IPO) for two major companies in the near future, according to a minister. The IPOs for two major companies, Bahrain Duty-Free and Bahrain Airport Services could be launched in the next two years, according to Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Kamal Ahmed. Speaking about the possible IPOs for Bahrain Airport Services and the Bahrain Duty-Free, he said it could be launched in two years’ time if other investors get on board.

“We will work with the other investors and hopefully in two years we can have these two companies listed in Bahrain Bourse,” he told reporters. Commenting on the recent listing of APM Terminals Bahrain on the Bahrain Bourse, he said, “We are pleased to see this. I want to thank APM terminals, the company that is operating Khalifa bin Salman port as well as thanks to Bahrain bourse and SICO who has participated in this as well. All in all, we are very happy with it.” Mark Hardiman, CEO/Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain commented about the company’s IPO and listing says: “The fact that people have participated in this IPO in such great numbers is a testament to not only the public’s trust in us but also a ringing endorsement to all that is happening at the Kingdom at the moment.