NGX Surges with N279bn Gain as Investors Show Renewed Interest
The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) kicked off the week on a high note, recording a significant gain of N279 billion in its market capitalisation on Monday.
This uptrend was driven by increased investor interest in key stocks across various sectors, resulting in a boost to the overall market sentiment.
At the close of trading, the market capitalisation rose to N74.83 trillion, up from N74.55 trillion on Friday.
The All-Share Index also appreciated by 441.43 points, or 0.37 per cent, to close at 118,579.65. This positive performance was largely attributed to the gains recorded by large and mid-cap stocks, including Presco Plc, Beta Glass, Champion Breweries, and Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals, which all posted a maximum gain of 10 per cent.
Presco Plc, in particular, saw its share price surge to N1,210, while Beta Glass closed at N303.60. Champion Breweries and Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals also recorded significant gains, closing at N9.02 and N4.07 per share, respectively. FTN Cocoa Processors, another top gainer, rose by 10 per cent to close at N3.08 per share.
Legend Intercontinental also performed well, rising by 9.97 per cent to close at N8.71.
On the other hand, some stocks experienced declines, with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc leading the pack with a 7.48 per cent drop to close at N117.50. Chams Holdings Plc and Secure Electronic Technology Plc both fell by 5 per cent, closing at N2.05 and N0.57, respectively. Multiverse Mining & Exploration Plc declined by 4.66 per cent to N9.20, followed by Red Star Express Plc, which lost 3.85 per cent to close at N7.50. ABC Transport Plc also dipped by 3.70 per cent to N2.60.
The NGX’s positive start to the week is a welcome development, as it suggests that investor confidence is returning to the market. The gains recorded by key stocks across various sectors indicate a renewed interest in the Nigerian economy, which could potentially lead to increased investment and growth in the coming days. As the week progresses, market watchers will be keenly observing the performance of the NGX, hoping that this upward trend will be sustained.