October 17, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) closed the week on a positive note as renewed investor interest in select mid- and large-cap stocks lifted the benchmark index higher on Friday, October 17, 2025.
The All-Share Index (ASI) advanced by 0.42%, moving from 148,355.04 points to 148,977.64 points, while the market capitalisation appreciated from N94.16 trillion to N94.56 trillion, representing a gain of approximately N395.18 billion.
The stock market had a good day, showing a positive momentum that means more stocks went up than went down: 39 companies saw their share prices rise compared to only 23 that fell. This “buy signal” happened because investors were snapping up shares in smaller and medium-sized companies, betting on two things: that the rising cost of living will soon slow down, and that the financial health of businesses is getting stronger.
• EUNISELL led the chart with a 10.00% rise (from N44.00 to N48.40).
• UPDC appreciated by 9.92% (N6.35 to N6.98).
• SOVRENINS gained 9.51% (climb from N3.26 to N3.57).
• UNIVINSURE advanced by 9.09% (N1.10 to N1.20).
• DAARCOMM rose 8.74% (N1.03 to N1.12).
Top Losers: LIVINGTRUST led the decliners’ chart, shedding 10.00% (N5.00 to N4.50). INTENEGINS dropped 8.39% (from ₦2.98 to ₦2.73).
CONHALL depreciated by 6.29% (N4.97 to N4.47).
STERLINGNG fell 4.88% (N8.20 to N7.80).
WAPIC slipped 4.55% (a dip from N3.30 to N3.15).
Equities that closed flat include SEPLAT Energy Plc, Custodian Investment Plc, John Holt Plc, Julius Berger Plc, and DN Tyre and Rubber Plc.
The market recorded mixed performance across sectors, with the insurance and real estate indices leading the gainers, driven by buying interest in SOVRENINS, UNIVINSURE, and UPDC, while the banking index posted mild losses amid profit-taking in STERLINGNG and other tier-two lenders.
Investor sentiment remained positive, reflecting growing confidence following Nigeria’s moderating inflation trend and recent macroeconomic reforms. Analysts believe the upbeat performance could persist into next week, buoyed by improved liquidity, stable FX conditions, and expectations of stronger Q3 corporate earnings releases.
In summary, the NGX closed the week on a strong footing, with sustained buying momentum suggesting renewed market optimism as investors position ahead of the next earnings cycle.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze
