Small and medium-scale investors on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) recorded mixed trading outcomes in the first week of December as overall transaction value dipped slightly, despite a strong rise in market capitalisation.
Data from the NGX shows that a total of 6.61 billion shares worth ₦113.22 billion were traded in 109,590 deals between December 1 and December 5. This represents a 2.29 per cent drop in turnover compared to the previous week’s ₦115.88 billion, signalling cautious investor activity among retail and SME-level participants.
Despite the slowdown in trading value, the market offered renewed optimism for small investors as total market capitalisation rose to ₦93.72 trillion from ₦91.28 trillion, driven by a 2.45 per cent growth in the All-Share Index (ASI). This upward movement reflects improving investor confidence and expanding opportunities for wealth creation among SMEs and retail traders.
The ICT sector emerged as the most active, recording 3.5 billion shares worth ₦17.75 billion in 11,184 deals. Strong ICT performance highlights growing interest in technology-driven companies, many of which support digital SMEs and online businesses. The financial services sector followed closely with ₦50.18 billion in trades, showing continued strength in banking and fintech-related equities that underpin SME financing.
Services firms also saw notable participation with over 104 million shares traded, indicating sustained engagement from service-based businesses and micro-investors.
Read also,
- NASENI innovation signals new business opportunities
- YMR fuels youth MSMEs nationwide with ₦24m growth grants
- Nigeria positions economy as SME gateway for Europe Africa trade
- Tax reforms committee engages Ombud to protect SMEs
- Cashew sector could unlock $10bn SME opportunity
Among the most traded stocks were E-Tranzact International, Cornerstone Insurance and Access Holdings, which together accounted for over 73 per cent of total trade volume. These companies remain key entry points for small investors seeking affordable and liquid stocks.
Several companies posted significant gains, delivering positive returns for SME investors. NCR Nigeria, UACN, Guinness Nigeria, Dangote Cement and Nigerian Breweries all recorded strong price increases, boosting portfolio values for small-scale traders.
However, some stocks recorded losses, including RT Briscoe, Legend Internet, Union Dicon Salt, Associated Bus Company and Cornerstone Insurance, reminding retail investors of the risks associated with market volatility.
Market analysts note that the continued strength in ICT, banking and services stocks presents fresh funding and investment opportunities for SMEs, especially those seeking capital growth, dividend income and long-term portfolio stability.
With rising market capitalisation and sectoral strength, the NGX remains a viable platform for Nigerian SMEs and small investors to grow wealth and explore future business expansion through capital market participation.
