by admin | Aug 29, 2025 | business, equities, financial markets, news, stocks
Kathmandu, August 19 – On Tuesday, the Nepal Stock Exchange (Nepse) saw a slight increase, gaining 6.51 points to finish at 2,776.90. The key index went up by 0.23% compared to the prior day.
The stock exchange data reveal that the share prices of 142 companies advanced while 107 declined.
A total of 131.24 million shares were exchanged via 61,784 deals, totaling Rs5.63 billion.
The turnover was less compared to Monday, when transactions amounted to Rs6.17 billion.
All sectoral sub-indices posted gains, with life insurance, production and processing, development banks, investment, others, and trade groups leading the upward movement.
by admin | Aug 21, 2025 | economics, financial markets, investing market news, news, politics
Asian markets were little changed Tuesday after Wall Street treaded water and US President Donald Trump held what he called “very good” talks with Ukrainian and European leaders on ending the three-year war.
Hopes for a breakthrough rose after Trump said he spoke by phone with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin — whom he met in Alaska last week — after hosting the Europeans and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
“At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky,” Trump said.
Oil prices, which have been volatile for several days — Russia is a major crude producer — fell back after gains on Monday.
Tokyo, Sydney, and Seoul saw minor declines, whereas Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore experienced gains.
Shares of SoftBank dropped by two percent following an announcement that the company plans to inject $2 billion into Intel, amid reports that the U.S. government may acquire a 10% ownership interest in the struggling American semiconductor firm.
A new boost for investors might arise from a speech this week by U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at the yearly gathering of international central bank officials in Jackson Hole.
Investors expect Powell to offer further insights into the Federal Reserve’s future decisions on interest rates during their upcoming meeting, following recent data that presented an inconsistent outlook on inflation.
“Even a nod to easing (by Powell) could be enough to trigger profit-taking, and a hint of caution could set off a scramble for the exits,” Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management said.
Prominent individuals at approximately 0300 GMT
Tokyo – Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.1 percent at 43,652.32
Hong Kong – Hang Seng Index: UP 0.1 percent at 25,195.36
Shanghai – Composite: Up 0.2% to 3,733.74
New York – Dow: UP 0.1 percent at 44,946.12 (close)
London – FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 9,157.74 (close)
Euro/U.S. Dollar: Decreased to $1.1652 from $1.1666 on Monday
Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.3498 from $1.3503
Dollar/Yen: Decreased to 147.78 yen from 147.89 yen
Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.33 pence from 86.40 pence
West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 0.5 percent at $63.12 per barrel
Brent crude oil from the North Sea: Decreased by 0.3% to $66.32 per barrel
by admin | Apr 17, 2025 | automotive industry, business, commerce, financial markets, international economics
U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested possible leniency regarding auto tariffs to provide automakers with “some breathing room” to relocate their manufacturing processes back to the United States. This statement came after he decided to grant a temporary reprieve for electronics from new levies, which represents another move away from the broad-ranging trade tariffs initially proposed earlier this month.
I’m seeking assistance for certain automobile manufacturers who are transitioning to components produced in countries like Canada and Mexico,” he stated at the Oval Office on Monday. “These companies require a short period as these items will be manufactured domestically.
On April 3rd, the Trump administration introduced 25% tariffs on imported automobiles. As reported earlier by Bloomberg, prominent automakers such as Ford Motor, General Motors, and Stellantis NV (the parent company of Chrysler) have been advocating for exceptions regarding specific inexpensive automotive parts. These components might otherwise be subjected to extra duties beyond the standard 25% tariff rate when they come from countries outside the United States.
In the meantime, the U.S. Department of Commerce issued an announcement indicating that they have launched inquiries into the semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries. These investigations are conducted under Section 232 of the national security investigation guidelines, which suggests the possibility of additional tariffs being imposed on these sectors. This development contributes to the growing ambiguity around President Trump’s tariff plans.
Following Trump’s statement that exceptions on electronic goods would be short-term and his assertion that “NOBODY will escape ‘being held accountable’ for the unjust trade deficits” on Sunday, these investigative alerts were issued.
The semiconductor review document stated its objective to “assess the impact on national security from imports of semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME), along with related goods.” Meanwhile, the pharmaceutical inquiry will focus on evaluating imports including “completed medications, medical countermeasures, essential components like active pharmaceutical ingredients, crucial raw materials, and associated derivatives of these items.”
European markets advance as automakers anticipate potential relief
Following President Trump’s remarks hinting at potential leniency regarding auto tariffs, European markets began the day marginally stronger. By approximately 9:30 am Central European Summer Time, share prices showed an overall uptick, with Germany’s DAX rising by 0.9%, the UK’s FTSE 100 climbing by 0.7%, and the STOXX 600 increasing by 0.6%. However, France’s CAC 40 saw a dip of 3%.
Shares of European automobile companies might see an upside due to changes in U.S. policies after experiencing significant declines over the last month. Specifically, stocks of key German automotive firms such as Volkswagen (VW), BMW, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz have dropped by approximately 15-18% within this timeframe. As of Tuesday morning, VW saw a rise of 3.7%, BMW surged by 3.8%, Porsche increased by 2%, and Mercedes-Benz jumped by 3.8%.
Nonetheless, European tech and pharma companies might encounter increased stress because of U.S. investigations into semiconductors and drugs. Notably, Denmark-based pharmaceutical heavyweight Novo Nordisk could come under greater examination since the United States represents its biggest individual market for its weight loss medication. The company experienced its sharpest drop-off over one month in March following several unsuccessful clinical trials. Additionally, investor worries have escalated due to President Trump’s warning about tariffs on pharmaceutical goods, potentially impacting profitability.
In the realm of technology stocks, ASML—which stands as Europe’s leading producer of semiconductor manufacturing equipment—is set to draw significant attention prior to the release of its financial outcomes on Wednesday. The company’s shares climbed by 2.8% during early trading on Tuesday.
The euro remains strong due to safe-haven demand.
During Tuesday’s Asian trading session, the euro remained robust above 1.13, reaching its highest position since 2022. As a safe-haven currency, the euro has gained traction due to Trump’s tariffs causing trade disruptions, leading to increased risk aversion across international markets throughout this last month. On Monday, the EUR/USD pairing peaked just over 1.14 before potentially continuing its upward trajectory fueled by ongoing economic instability.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is anticipated to announce its third successive reduction in interest rates this Thursday, further supporting the accommodating monetary policy of the Eurozone due to persistent threats.
On Tuesday morning, the euro increased slightly against the dollar, rising by under 1%.
by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, financial markets, financial services, investing company news, money
HFM has established a robust presence in Nigeria’s online trading sector. Could you discuss how trust and security have influenced your progress up until now?
Certainly. In Nigeria, trust and security have always formed the backbone of our expansion. Right from the start, we recognized that online trading, particularly with contracts for difference (CFDs), could be intricate and daunting for numerous individual investors. Therefore, we prioritized openness, adherence to regulations, and offering a safe environment. This approach helped establish our reliability. Additionally, we’ve made significant investments in customer education and tailored assistance, fostering confidence among many Nigerian traders who now rely on us.
As worries over fraud and financial scams in online trading continue to rise, what actions is HFM implementing to boost confidence and security, especially within CFD trading? Which particular safeguards have been put into effect to shield individual investors from dangers such as improper use of leverage, fraudulent activities, or weaknesses in the trading platforms?
At
HFM
At the heart of our operations lies client protection. We prioritize fraud prevention, ensure responsible leveraging, and safeguard funds with great seriousness. To achieve this, we’ve established several tiers of protective measures to foster a safe and open trading atmosphere.
From the outset of client engagement, we implement rigorous Know Your Customer/Anti-Money Laundering protocols to confirm identities and thwart illicit activities. Our platform features instantaneous trade surveillance mechanisms aimed at identifying and resolving dubious actions. Regarding leverage, clients have complete autonomy to modify it according to their personal risk appetite and trading approaches; additionally, we offer detailed risk data prior to initiating any trades.
To safeguard your funds, we keep all client deposits in isolated accounts at premier banks, distinct from our own operating capital. Consequently, regardless of market fluctuations, your money stays secure. Additionally, we collaborate with prominent liquidity suppliers to sustain a robust financial standing, which facilitates seamless and dependable trading experiences.
In terms of technological capabilities, we routinely evaluate our infrastructure through audits and stress tests, ensuring it remains secure with top-tier encryption methods. To further fortify user accounts, we provide two-factor authentication. Our leading-edge insurance scheme covers various threats such as fraud, human mistakes, and unexpected issues. Moreover, a specialized system continuously monitors potential risks round-the-clock to protect clients’ best interests.
Our aim is to create a secure and open setting where traders can concentrate on their tactics with complete assurance.
Protecting investors is essential, yet promoting innovation also holds significant value. Can you explain how HFM manages to uphold regulatory requirements while still encouraging development in CFD trading?
Achieving this delicate equilibrium has been successful for us. Instead of seeing compliance as an obligation, we regard it as the foundation that instills trust in our clientele when they engage in transactions. Concurrently, we persistently explore novel avenues such as advanced trading instruments, user-friendly designs, and accessible mobile platforms which make trading more inclusive. Both our product developers and compliance officers collaborate closely to guarantee each advancement adheres strictly to stringent regulatory guidelines while still providing customers with a smooth interaction.
In what ways is HFM working alongside regulatory bodies such as the SEC to guarantee adherence to regulations without compromising its competitive edge?
We take a highly proactive approach in this area and have maintained continuous discussions with the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the critical necessity of regulating CFD trading in Nigeria.
HFM
, we see regulation not as a hurdle but as a competitive advantage, it filters out bad actors, raises industry standards, and builds long-term trust. As a global brand regulated in multiple jurisdictions, including South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Dubai, the United Kingdom, and Cyprus, we bring deep regulatory experience to the table.
Our interaction with the SEC aims at facilitating the creation of straightforward, actionable regulations for CFD trading. These rules should safeguard investors’ interests while also fostering innovation. We strive to maintain an environment where trades occur under a clear, organized structure ensuring secure assets, stringent performance criteria, and adherence to international best practices. An effectively regulated marketplace encourages greater involvement from various players, enhances reliability, and promotes steady expansion throughout the financial sector.
Given our substantial and expanding clientele in Nigeria, we understand the duty we bear. Therefore, instead of merely backing regulations, we are proactively collaborating with the SEC to develop equitable and robust rules that promote honesty, safeguard investors, and raise the bar for the CFD trading sector in Nigeria. We aspire ultimately to become the foremost transparent and reliable CFD brokerage within the nation.
What internal measures does HFM employ to identify and stop misconduct involving traders, third-party brokers, or malicious entities on the platform? In what ways do HFM’s security protocols concerning CFDs contribute to enhancing Nigeria’s standing as a secure and appealing market for international investors?
Internally, we maintain a specialized compliance and risk management team that keeps watch over activities round the clock. Additionally, we employ sophisticated algorithms designed to identify unusual trading behaviors or patterns, which could include instances of insider misuse or actions taken without authorization by external parties. Any detected problems are promptly elevated for comprehensive investigation. Such preventive measures ensure the security of our clients’ interests.
Given the tighter restrictions on CFDs, could this lead to traders moving to non-regulated venues instead? What strategies will HFM employ to keep their user base while maintaining regulatory adherence and safety?
This is indeed a legitimate worry. Certain traders might be drawn to non-regulated platforms that provide substantial rewards with minimal transparency. However, we think that many customers, particularly under current conditions, prioritize security and reliability more than quick profits. We aim to inform users regarding the hazards associated with unlicensed brokerages and keep delivering top-notch assistance, clear cost structures, and specialized regional knowledge. Ensuring adherence to regulations alongside maintaining customer loyalty becomes seamless when individuals recognize that their enduring prosperity is what matters most to us.
Does HFM require explicit risk warnings, leverage restrictions, or increased transparency measures for CFD traders? Are there intentions to reinforce these protective guidelines?
Certainly. All our CFD products require mandatory risk warnings, which we present in straightforward, jargon-free terms specifically designed for Nigerian users. Additionally, we have introduced adjustable leverage limits that consider both the user’s level of expertise and their account type. Our policies undergo regular reviews, particularly with changes in regulations. Furthermore, we plan to incorporate advanced AI-powered risk assessment tools to personalize trading restrictions and alert systems according to individual clients’ behaviors and risks they undertake.
Apart from CFDs, are there other high-risk financial products like cryptocurrency derivatives that HFM plans to subject to stricter regulation for better investor protection?
Yes, CFD regulation should cover all CFD products, including crypto CFDs. While they offer opportunities, they also carry significant risks, especially for retail investors who may not fully understand the volatility involved. We want to continue to make these products accessible, but only within a framework that puts investor protection first.
In what ways does HFM’s strategy for regulating Contract for Difference (CFD) align with Nigeria’s overarching objective of expanding capital markets and at the same time safeguarding financial stability?
We see ourselves as a bridge between retail traders and the broader capital market ecosystem. By championing safe, regulated CFD trading, we’re helping introduce new participants to financial markets, many of whom may eventually graduate to equities, ETFs, or even direct capital market investments. Our compliance-driven model aligns with Nigeria’s financial stability goals while expanding access to wealth-building tools. It’s about growing the market responsibly.
In the future, we plan to offer Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on selected Nigerian-listed company stocks. This move aims to provide local investors with an option to protect their conventional equity holdings through stock CFDs, which aren’t presently available locally. Introducing these instruments not only enhances the functionality of CFDs for Nigerian traders but also bolsters the broader financial ecosystem by providing advanced risk management options. We believe this aligns well with Nigeria’s goals of expanding capital markets and drawing in greater numbers of individual investors.
Thank you for dedicating your time. It’s evident why
HFM
leads in the field of financial trading.
I appreciate your time. It was nice talking with you.
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).
by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, finance news, financial markets, investing, money
Following its robust financial performance in 2024, the bank has suggested a dividend of N1.00 per share.
Wema Bank has reported a profit before tax of N102.51 billion, indicating a rise of 135 percent from the N43.59 billion noted in the previous year.
The bank
has suggested a dividend of N1.00 per share following its robust financial performance in 2024.
As stated by the bank on Sunday, its balance sheet continues to be well-structured, varied, and robust, with total assets increasing by 60 percent to reach N3.585 billion in 2024.
The total assets were at N2.240 billion in 2023. Additionally, the bank increased its deposit base year-over-year by 36 percent to reach N2.523 billion from N1.860 billion.
Loans and advances rose by 50 percent, totaling N1.201 billion in 2024 from N801.10 billion in 2023. The non-performing loans ratio was at 3.86 percent by the end of the year.
The bank reported enhanced yearly performance, showing a 92 percent increase in gross earnings to N432.34 billion from N225.75 billion in the previous year.
The interest income surged by 92 percent year-over-year to N353.54 billion from N184.48 billion, whereas the non-interest income saw an increase of 91 percent to reach N78.80 billion.
The bank announced a Return on Equity of 43.60 percent, a Return onAssets of 2.96 percent, and maintained a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 19.67percent.
The cost-to-income ratio was at 56.23 percent, underscoring the commercial bank’s robustness and fiscal stability.
The robust performance in 2024 was credited to effective strategy implementation in areas such as risk control, client engagement, and online banking services by Managing Director Moruf Oseni.
“We continue to be dedicated to assisting Nigerian businesses and individuals through our cutting-edge banking products and services,” he stated.
He pointed out ALAT, the leading digital platform of the bank, as being at the forefront of digital banking usage amongst Nigeria’s youth demographic.
Mr. Oseni mentioned one instance as ALAT XPlore, which is Nigeria’s premier authorized banking application tailored for teens between the ages of 13 and 17, aimed at fostering financial acumen and accountability.
Despite facing a difficult operational landscape, the bank keeps expanding across all financial metrics, highlighting the team’s strength and proficiency.
“The most impressive result is from Profit Before Tax, which jumped by 135 percent,” he noted.
Mr. Oseni pointed out that the 92 percent increase in gross revenue, along with a 60 percent expansion in total assets and an earning of 483.20 kobo per share, significantly bolstered the balance sheet strength.
“The cost-to-income ratio of 56.23 percent has notably enhanced compared to the prior period,” he mentioned.
He further declared that the financial institution’s Capital Raise Initiative was scheduled to commence in April 2025 through a N150 billion rights offering.
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by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | business, financial markets, mobile technology, money, news
By Stanley Senya
Accra, March 30, GNA – MTN Ghana reported a significant increase of 34.5 percent in their service revenue. This growth was fueled by higher mobile data consumption, an extended reach of 4G and 5G networks, as well as a surge in mobile money activities.
At the 7th Annual General Meeting, CEO Mr. Stephen Blewett unveiled MTN Ghana’s 2024 Annual Report, underscoring the key strategies that drove the company’s success.
He stated, “Our service revenue rose by 34.5 percent compared to the previous year, surpassing projections. This achievement can be attributed to the expansion of our data services, the success of Mobile Money (MoMo), and ongoing digital innovations.”
“By aggressively investing in our network growth, especially in 4G technology, we have notably boosted customer acquisition and engagement,” Mr Blewett noted.
MTN Ghana experienced a significant rise of 53.8 percent year-over-year in their data revenue, amounting to GHS9.0 billion, thanks to enhanced network facilities and an increasing number of customers. Additionally, Mobile Money revenue saw a growth of 54.4%, totaling GHS4.4 billion, highlighting the essential part this service plays within Ghana’s evolving digital finance landscape.
In spite of its robust financial performance, MTN Ghana continued to approach the broader economic environment with caution.
The CEO admitted that inflationary pressures and currency devaluation might pose challenges in 2025.
“We expect ongoing economic hurdles such as inflationary pressures and exchange rate volatility, which could affect consumer expenditure and overall economic expansion. Nonetheless, we are dedicated to maintaining cost efficiencies and making strategic investments to uphold our growth path,” he stated firmly.
Mr. Ishmael Yamson, the Chair of the Board at MTN Ghana, declared a final dividend of 24 pesewas per share, scheduled for payment on April 16, 2025, acknowledging the firm’s strong financial standing.
Considering our robust performance, Mr. Yamson announced that the Board of Directors has approved recommending a final dividend of 24 pesewas per share for shareholder approval.
The aggregate dividend for the fiscal year 2024 amounts to 30.5 pesewas per share, which includes an earlier interim distribution of 6.5 pesewas per share back in September 2024.
This equates to a dividend payout of GH₵4.0 billion, which constitutes 80 percent of MTN Ghana’s GH₵5.0 billion post-tax profit, indicating a significant 35.6% rise in dividends per share compared to 2023.
MTN Ghana committed to maintaining its progress by investing in digital strategies, improving financial services, and expanding its network further.
GNA
GRB
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