The Nigerian equities market began the week on a bullish note, with the NGX All-Share Index climbing 1.12% to close at 246,183.96 points. Investor wealth surged by N1.76 trillion, pushing total market capitalization to N158.81 trillion. Trading activity intensified, with volume, value, and deal counts rising significantly. First HoldCo was the session’s standout performer, gaining 9.95% to close at N105.50, following a strong half-year profit report of over N653.5 billion. Sustained demand for banking and industrial stocks, including significant gains from Custodian Investment, NEM Insurance, and BUA Cement, drove the market’s positive momentum.

A new analysis of Google Play Store data as of July 2026 highlights the top 10 most downloaded banking applications in Nigeria, reflecting the sector’s shift toward digital-first service delivery.

Access Bank’s "Access More" leads the market within the 10 million-plus download bracket, boasting over 746,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating. It is followed by UBA Mobile Banking and FirstBank’s FirstMobile, both also commanding 10 million-plus downloads with 4.5-star ratings. Zenith Bank’s app also resides in the 10 million-plus tier, holding a 4.2-star rating.

In the 5 million-plus download category, Guaranty Trust Bank’s GTWorld stands out with a 4.5-star rating, while FCMB Mobile holds a 4.3-star rating. Other notable apps in the 1 million-plus bracket include Fidelity Online Banking (4.2 stars), Stanbic IBTC Mobile (4.2 stars), KeyMobile (4.0 stars), and ALAT (3.9 stars). The ranking methodology prioritized cumulative download thresholds, followed by user ratings and review volume.

The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) continues its bullish momentum, with the All-Share Index consolidating near record highs and yielding a 56% return year-to-date. Institutional demand is heavily concentrated on Tier-1 banks—specifically FBN Holdings (FIRSTHOLDCO) and United Bank for Africa (UBA)—as these institutions execute aggressive capital base expansions to meet regulatory requirements. FBN Holdings has notably surpassed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s N500 billion capital threshold, with Chairman Femi Otedola targeting a N1 trillion base. Meanwhile, stabilizing Naira rates and growing FX reserves are bolstering foreign investor confidence, despite competition from high-yield money market instruments. Beyond blue-chip banks, market interest is broadening into mid-cap and small-cap stocks, as investors seek value in sectors like transportation and agribusiness.