DUBAI - Here are some factors that may affect Middle East stock markets on Thursday. Reuters has not verified the press reports and does not vouch for their accuracy.

INTERNATIONAL/REGIONAL

* GLOBAL MARKETS-Asian shares retreat from rally, South Korea raises rates 

* Oil prices fall first day in four as virus concerns return

* PRECIOUS-Gold subdued as investor focus turns to Jackson Hole

* MIDEAST STOCKS-Most major Gulf bourses fall; oil lifts Saudi stocks 

 

EGYPT

* Egypt to open Rafah crossing with Gaza in one direction for 3 days -sources 

* Egypt taps banks for debt financing plans - sources 

* Egypt's Sodic Q2 Consol Profit Rises

* EGX Says Muhammad Faraj Muhammad Masoud El Muhairby Sells 5.304% Stake In Rowad Tourism

SAUDI ARABIA

* Saudi Arabia launches 2.5 bln riyals initiative to develop information technology - SPA 

* New Saudi-Chinese fund to support tech startups with 1.5 bln riyals -SPA

* Mohammed Hasan Alnaqool Sons Board Proposes Capital Increase

* Aramco Trading to join Platts oil pricing process in Asia

 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

* Abu Dhabi conglomerate IHC eyes investment opportunities in Turkey - CEO

 

KUWAIT

* Kuwait Real Estate Says Unit Sells Lands In A Real Estate Portfolio For 13.1 Mln Dinars

 

 

(Compiled by Dubai newsroom) ((dubai.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com))