The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has achieved a historic milestone, as its market capitalisation soared to ₦75.58 trillion, reflecting a 20.4 per cent year-on-year growth from ₦62.76 trillion recorded at the close of 2024. The surge was driven by a bullish equities rally, adding N764 billion in portfolio value amid sustained investor interest.

The NGX All-Share Index (ASI) rose by 1,211.17 basis points, or 1.02 per cent, to close at a record high of 119,790.82 points, extending gains from previous sessions.

The year-to-date return now stands at 16.4 per cent, powered by strong demand for medium- and large-cap stocks such as DANGSUGAR, OKOMUOIL, WAPCO, and ELLAHLAKES.

Trading activity showed robust increases, with total trade volume jumping 37.6 per cent and trade value climbing 10.86 per cent compared to the prior session. According to Atlass Securities Limited, a total of 854.77 million units, valued at US$23.48 billion, were exchanged in 21,933 deals.

ROYALEX led in trade volume, accounting for 13.71 per cent of total shares traded, while OKOMUOIL topped in trade value with 14.04 per cent.

Market breadth was broadly positive, as 61 stocks recorded gains against 22 decliners. Leading the gainers were DANGSUGAR, OKOMUOIL, UPDC, and BETAGLAS, each appreciating by 10.00 per cent. On the flip side, DAARCOMM was the worst performer, shedding 7.81 per cent.

Sectoral performance was equally strong, with the industrial sector gaining 3.13 per cent, consumer goods rising 2.01 per cent, banking improving by 0.94 per cent, and insurance edging up 0.06 per cent. The oil and gas sector, however, dipped by 1.51 per cent.

Market analysts credit the exchange’s robust performance to resilient investor confidence, ongoing policy reforms, and heightened interest in blue-chip stocks. Despite macroeconomic headwinds including high inflation and currency pressures, the NGX continues to serve as both a hedge against inflation and an attractive destination for domestic and foreign investors.

Looking ahead, analysts foresee sustained growth, underpinned by initiatives like the NGX Invest digital platform—launched in 2024 to deepen retail participation. However, challenges such as high transaction costs and low liquidity levels remain, according to Proshare’s 2025 market outlook.

With a market capitalisation now at US$45.04 billion as of February 2025—up from US$43.79 billion in January—the NGX further cements Nigeria’s position as a leading capital market hub in Africa.