Prime Highlights:
- Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury holdings jumped $14.4 billion in November, marking the largest monthly increase since 1974.
- Most of the Kingdom’s holdings are in long-term securities, reflecting a focus on safety and steady returns.
Key Facts:
- Saudi Arabia’s total US Treasury portfolio reached $148.8 billion in November, moving the country up to 17th among global holders.
- Long-term securities make up 72% of the portfolio, while short-term securities account for 28%.
Background:
Saudi Arabia significantly boosted its holdings of US Treasury securities in November, marking the largest monthly increase since data tracking began in 1974, according to official figures.
The Kingdom’s US Treasury portfolio reached $148.8 billion in November, up $14.4 billion from October, representing a 10.71 percent rise. Following the increase, Saudi Arabia moved up one position to 17th place among the world’s largest foreign holders of US government debt.
Experts say countries like Saudi Arabia invest in US Treasuries because they are safe, easy to sell, help spread risk, and support trade ties with the United States. Compared with January 2025, the Kingdom’s holdings were 17.25 percent higher in November.
Saudi Arabia’s US Treasury holdings are mostly in long-term securities, which make up $106.8 billion or 72 percent of the total. Short-term US Treasury holdings are $42 billion, or 28 percent of Saudi Arabia’s total.
The strong trade relationship between Saudi Arabia and the US supports these investment choices. In October, Saudi exports of non-oil goods to the US totaled SR5.20 billion ($1.39 billion), according to the General Authority of Statistics.
Economic experts say US Treasuries are important for Saudi Arabia’s financial stability. US Treasuries give Saudi Arabia a safe income and help pay for imports, handle debt, and guard against changes in oil revenue. The recent increase shows the Kingdom is managing its money carefully, investing in different places, and keeping steady returns.
