Emmanuel OchayiThe Nigerian Exchange (NGX) experienced a remarkable surge in the first week of 2025, gaining N1.25 trillion. The All-Share Index rose by 1.42%, closing at 103,586.33 points, while the Market Capitalisation increased by 2.02% to N63.166 trillion. This performance marks a positive start for the year.
Trading Activities Highlight Growth
Investors witnessed a busy week, with a turnover of 2.618 billion shares valued at N69.742 billion across 47,953 deals. This activity was spread over four trading days, as the Federal Government declared January 1st a public holiday. Compared to the previous week’s 1.387 billion shares worth N52.023 billion, the recent figures represent a significant increase.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Financial Services Industry led the trading activities, contributing 66.88% of the total volume and 24.49% of the total value. Notable performances were observed in the Services and ICT Industries, with substantial shares traded in each sector.
Top Stocks and Market Trends
Key equities like Royal Exchange Plc, Chams Holding Company Plc, and Universal Insurance Plc accounted for 23.38% of the total turnover volume, highlighting their active trading week. Market breadth improved, with 82 equities appreciating, 18 declining, and 52 remaining unchanged.
Decliners and Gainers in the Stock Market
Among the decliners, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc led with a 13.79% drop, closing at N25.00 from N29.00. Other notable decliners included CWG Plc, Union Dicon Salt Plc, Nigerian Exchange Group, and Cadbury Nigeria Plc.
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Conversely, Prestige Assurance Plc topped the gainers chart, appreciating by 46% to close at N1.46 from N1.00. Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc and Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc also posted impressive gains, alongside Coronation Insurance Plc and Universal Insurance Plc.
Sector Performance and Bond Listings
While the Oil and Gas and Sovereign Bond indices dipped by 0.45% and 3.28% respectively, other indices saw gains, indicating a mixed but generally positive market sentiment.
Additionally, the Federal Government’s December 2024 Savings Bonds were listed on the NGX. The two tranches, with maturities in 2026 and 2027, offer attractive coupon rates of 17.483% and 18.483% respectively, and have already drawn investor interest.
Outlook for the Stock Market in 2025
The Nigerian stock market’s early performance in 2025 suggests a strong year ahead. The NGX’s gain of N155 billion, as reported by The PUNCH, underscores a positive start with a 0.25% appreciation in the All-Share Index. Investors remain optimistic about sustained growth in the coming weeks.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
