Saudi budget deficit hits five-year high amid oil price rout
Saudi Arabia’s budget deficit in the fourth quarter grew to its highest in five years, as reduced oil prices continue to weigh on state revenues.
The kingdom's fourth quarter budget deficit rose to $25.3 billion (94.9 billion Saudi riyals) from $23.6 billion (88.5 billion Saudi riyals) recorded during the previous quarter and $15.3 billion (57.6 billion Saudi riyals) posted in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The budget deficit brought the year’s total shortfall to $73.6 billion (276 billion Saudi riyals), which Riyadh has entirely funded through borrowing.
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