Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s (MBS) 2016 announcement of Saudi Vision 2030, commentators and analysts have maligned the plan’s “unrealistic” goals and time lines. Vision 2030 is called a vision because it is conceptual: a broad canvas of goals and aspirations that are intended to guide the reform process. As I explained in my April 14 article in Forbes, the objective of the Aramco IPO is primarily strategic. Viewing the Aramco IPO in its proper context, one may appreciate why the government has not committed to a set course of action. Listing Aramco on a foreign exchange like London or New York is hardly the only option available.

Source: Forbes October 30, 2017 02:03 UTC