Nigerian Exchange foreign inflows reach N288 billion in March
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Foreign portfolio participation on the Nigerian Exchange Limited saw a significant recovery in March 2026, with total foreign transactions increasing by 107.74 percent to N288.82 billion. This surge in foreign inflows, from N72.32 billion in February to N181.77 billion in March, suggests that international investors are increasingly finding value in Nigerian equities due to recent market re-ratings and improved foreign exchange liquidity. Despite this, domestic investors continue to dominate the bourse, accounting for 83.44 percent of total transactions, with institutional investors outperforming retail participants. The increase in foreign inflows comes amid aggressive fiscal and monetary reforms aimed at stabilizing the naira and attracting foreign direct investment. Total market transactions for the first quarter of 2026 reached N4.148 trillion, an 85.87 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025, reflecting a broader market rally. Over a 19-year period, domestic transactions have increased significantly by 160.83 percent. Market observers expect institutional investors to maintain their leading role, while foreign participation is projected to remain sensitive to macroeconomic indicators, particularly inflation data and Central Bank of Nigeria interest rate decisions.
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