Muscat: The Qatar Stock Exchange closed the week sharply higher, with its benchmark index rising 2.16 percent, or 226.34 points, to 10,714 points, driven by strong gains in the industrial sector and banking stocks.

According to Qatar News Agency, financial market analyst Youssef Buhulaiqa said the market's improved performance, particularly in the final trading sessions of the week, was fueled by stronger investor sentiment amid growing political signals favoring de-escalation between the United States and Iran.

He noted that Qatar's market benefited directly from easing concerns over regional energy supplies and maritime trade routes, especially with rising expectations of a resolution to tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the continued normal flow of oil tankers and commercial shipping.

Buhulaiqa said the ongoing rally reflects a gradual return of investor confidence, supported by strong liquidity levels and renewed institutional buying in fundamentally solid stocks.

He added that Qatar's market remains well-positioned for sustained growth, backed by a resilient banking sector, continued infrastructure spending, strong sovereign credit ratings, and stable macroeconomic indicators, making the Qatari Stock Exchange one of the region's most attractive investment destinations.