Last week brought mixed performances across African equity markets, highlighting distinct regional dynamics. While Kenya and Nigeria posted notable gains, Zimbabwe and Tanzania faced significant challenges. Ghana continues to lead as the top-performing market of the year in local currency, with a stellar YTD return of +51.22%, while Kenya takes the lead in USD and EUR terms, with YTD gains of +57.12% and +64.98%, respectively. Let’s explore the key trends and stories shaping the markets this week.

This week brought mixed results across African equity markets, with notable winners and significant declines. While Kenya's stock market continues to surge, reflecting strong investor confidence, Zimbabwe faced sharp setbacks, highlighting ongoing economic instability. South Africa also showed remarkable resilience, adding to its steady year-to-date gains. Let’s dive deeper into the week's standout performances and challenges.

The sentiment was relatively bearish on African equity markets this week. Among the 17 markets we cover, ten retreated while seven advanced. The Lusaka Stock Exchange led the pack as Zambian equities gained 3.35%. Conversely, the Nairobi Securities Exchange was the laggard. Kenyan equities dropped 4.13% this week, the most on the continent.

The sentiment was mainly positive on African equity markets this week. Among the 17 markets we cover, twelve advanced while four retreated and one remained flat. The Namibian Stock Exchange led the pack as equities in Windhoek rallied 4.23%. Conversely, the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange was the laggard. Zimbabwean equities shed 1.24% this week, the most on the continent.