This week, global markets carefully navigated challenges.
In the United States, Congress caused the first government shutdown in six years over healthcare funding.
Economists warned that a prolonged shutdown could dent consumer confidence, slow growth, and make temporary furloughs permanent.
Nevertheless, the S&P 500 rose to 6,748.81 points, reflecting investors’ hope for a quick resolution, though some sectors remain vulnerable.
Inflation Eases In West Africa
Meanwhile, in West Africa, Ghana reported a welcome slowdown in inflation.
The CPI fell to 9.4% from 11.5% in August.
Food prices dropped sharply, and non-food inflation eased, showing gradual improvement, although the rate remains above the Bank of Ghana’s target.
Turning to Nigeria, the Central Bank announced a phased reform of fixed-income and FX markets, starting in November 2025.
Testing will begin in October, followed by pilot operations, as the bank assumes direct control of settlement and trading platforms.
The reform aims to enhance transparency, improve efficiency, and strengthen regulatory oversight while ensuring a smooth transition for participants.
Read Also: Liquidity Boost Drives Naira To Weekly Gain Of ₦14.98
Energy, Finance, And Markets
In energy, NNPC signed a two-year crude supply deal with Dangote Refinery, settling 60% of payments in naira.
The agreement will support the local currency, relieve foreign reserve pressure, and bolster domestic energy security simultaneously.
Meanwhile, PenCom revised capital requirements for pension funds, linking them to assets under management to strengthen stability and encourage consolidation.
Consequently, the Nigerian equities market extended its winning streak, with the NGX-ASI climbing 1.02%, led by oil & gas and banking stocks.
Fixed-income markets remained bullish, and Eurobond prices edged higher, reflecting cautious optimism across Nigeria and the broader region.
Overall, from Washington to Accra and Lagos, investors actively monitored developments, aware that calm markets can quickly turn turbulent.
