Nestle, Eterna, Fidson Drag Nigerian Exchange Down, Wiping Out N51bn

The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) opened the week in the red as Nestle Plc, Eterna, and Fidson Healthcare Plc closed lower to wipe out a combined N51 billion from the market capitalization.

Nestle Plc shed 10 percent to close at N990 per share while Eterna and Fidson Healthcare Plc plummeted by 9.97 percent and 9.82 percent to settle at N15.80 and N15.15 per share, respectively.

At the close of trading, the All-Share Index (ASI) dipped by 0.09 per cent to 101,995.53 points and the NGX market capitalization fell to N55.81 trillion.

This downturn reflects investors’ concerns about the stability of these key companies amidst broader economic uncertainties.

Analysts had anticipated a bearish sentiment as investors sought guidance from economic policymakers and corporate earnings reports.

With the NGX struggling to find solid footing, investors remain cautious about their portfolio allocations, especially with rising fixed-income yields and impending monetary policy decisions.

The trading session saw a marginal increase in transaction volume, rising by 1.14 percent to 294.32 million units.

However, the value of transactions surged by 12 per cent to N6.72 billion, indicating intensified trading activity despite the overall market decline.

Also, the number of deals rose by 29 percent to 9,957, showcasing heightened market participation.

While the banking sector recorded a modest 1.35 percent gain, driven by increased interest in FBN Holdings, JaizBank, and Sterling Financial Holdings Plc, other sectors faced challenges.

The consumer goods and oil/gas sectors experienced notable declines, contributing to the overall negative sentiment.

As market participants await corporate earnings reports and the outcome of the Monetary Policy Committee meeting, the NGX remains susceptible to volatility, highlighting the need for cautious investment strategies in the current economic landscape.