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.

ABC Transport Plc has officially launched a group-wide fleet renewal program aimed at enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency. The initiative has kicked off with the deployment of 2026-model luxury coaches equipped with modern safety and comfort features, including real-time GPS tracking, high-definition CCTV, and USB ports. These vehicles are primarily designated for high-demand routes such as Lagos-Abuja and Lagos-East.

Beyond passenger coaches, the company has also placed orders for new-generation Toyota Hiace minibuses and has recently expanded its logistics subsidiary with modern trucks, including CNG-powered vehicles, to support nationwide cargo distribution and lower operating costs. This broad investment across its transport and logistics divisions marks a significant push by the company to modernize its assets and solidify its leadership in the regional mobility sector.

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.