Active GCC markets closed on a mixed note today with 3 out of the 6 markets declining in line with the Asian markets. However European markets opened green, backed by positive news flow relating to European executive and consumer confidence and also lower German unemployment. The Saudi bourse declined 0.1% led by decline in petrochemicals sector which decreased 0.49%.

Kuwait Stock Exchange Index declined 0.2 percent led by decline in the insurance and real estate sectors which decreased 0.92% and 0.72% respectively. Doha Securities Market 20 Index increased marginally by 0.2% in today’s trade. Dubai shares were flat today on very low volumes; while Abu Dhabi's index decreased marginally by 0.1% led by weakness in Etisalat, which declined 0.5%. Bahrain’s gauge increased 0.2 percent led by AUB, Nass Corporation and ARIG. Muscat Securities Market 30 Index increased 0.5% on high volumes of 15 million shares.