Qatar Raises $3 Billion from Public Bond Sale Amid US-Iran War Turmoil
Qatar's government has raised $3 billion from its first public international bond of the year, amidst economic turmoil caused by the US-Iran war. The Gulf state sold five- and 10-year bonds to investors, with more than $7.7 billion in orders at the peak before bids eased to around $6.8 billion. This was Qatar's first public market entry since November.
The country has been struggling with a significant decrease in liquefied natural gas exports and a rising fiscal deficit due to the conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The government sold the bonds at prices 30 basis points tighter than initially guided, with the shorter debt priced at 55 basis points over US Treasuries and the longer bonds at 65 basis points.
This bond sale is a part of Qatar's efforts to manage its finances during these challenging times. By raising $3 billion from this deal, the government aims to reduce its fiscal deficit and stabilize the economy.