NGX All-Share down 1.35% to 239,351 as insurance sector leads weekly losses
The Nigerian Exchange All-Share Index fell 3,268.04 points, or 1.35%, to close at 239,351.16 points, extending a two-week correction. Market capitalisation slipped 1.33% to N154.534 trillion, pulling month-to-date returns to -2.42% while quarter-to-date remains +4.33% and year-to-date holds at +53.81%. Trading activity weakened, with volume plunging 48.62% to 6.24 billion shares and value down 10.40% to N157.76 billion; financial stocks dominated trades, accounting for 89.6% of volume.
Insurance stocks bore the brunt, making up four of the top ten losers led by International Energy Insurance (-27.26%). The NGX Insurance Index is now the only major sector negative for 2026, down 8.65% year-to-date. Conversely, consumer goods edged up 0.05%, signalling selective bargain hunting. Notable movers: Haldane McCall surged 32.30% to N3.85, while Universal Insurance shares were suspended after NAICOM revoked its licence and appointed a liquidator. Veritas Kapital added 15 billion shares via a N1.00 private placement, and dividend adjustments trimmed Presco, Custodian Investment and MTN Nigeria prices.
For investors, the broad pullback suggests caution despite strong yearly gains. Consider reviewing exposure to insurance, monitoring dividend-adjusted stocks for true value, and watching consumer names for potential value plays. With thin trading volumes, large moves may be driven by fewer participants—check liquidity before entering or exiting positions.