Investors on the NASD Over-the-Counter Securities Exchange recorded a N1.90tn gain last week as the market capitalisation rose by 1.86 per cent.

According to the NASD weekly report for the week ended May 30, the NASD OTC market capitalisation increased from N1.87tn in the previous week to N1.90tn, while the NASD All-Share Index rose from 3,188.76 to 3,248.00 points.

The report showed that the oil and gas sector dominated the week’s trading activity, accounting for 81.37 per cent of the total transactions. A total of 506.19 million shares worth N4.18bn were exchanged in 21 deals in the sector.

Trailing the oil and gas sector was the consumer goods sector, where 15.77 million shares, valued at N638.94 m, were traded in 48 deals.

Overall, a total of 551.01 million shares worth N5.14bn were traded across 133 deals during the week, representing a significant increase in volume and value compared to the preceding week.

Top traded securities for the week included Air Liquide Plc and FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria.

Market analysts attributed the bullish trend to improved investor confidence, citing the federal government’s favourable policy direction and relative economic stability. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s decision to retain the Monetary Policy Rate at 27.5 per cent also contributed to the positive sentiment.

The report added that the Monetary Policy Committee stated the decision to hold the rate was based on signs of moderating inflation, particularly food inflation, and relative stability in the foreign exchange market.

The PUNCH reported that the market capitalisation of the NASD Over-the-Counter Securities Exchange rose to N1.90 tn at the close of trading on Friday, May 30, 2025, marking a notable increase from N1.87 tn recorded the previous week.