By Market Overview: Bulls Dominate Friday Session
The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) closed the trading session on Friday, March 13, 2026, with an overwhelmingly positive sentiment, as bulls firmly gripped the trading floor across most counters. Market participants displayed renewed appetite for blue-chip stocks and dividend-yielding equities, driving a broad-based rally that pushed the main indices into the green. This surge reflects a growing confidence in the Kenyan macroeconomic environment, characterized by stabilized currency exchange rates and a favorable interest rate trajectory. Investors reacted positively to various corporate strategic announcements and full-year earnings expectations, particularly within the manufacturing, banking, and construction sectors. The cumulative valuation of the exchange saw a notable uptick, ending the week on a high note that bodes well for the start of the next trading cycle.
Top Gainers: Carbacid and BK Group Lead the Pack
Carbacid Investments (CARB) emerged as the star performer of the day, recording a significant 4.78% increase to close at KES 30.70. The carbon dioxide producer's stock has seen heightened interest as investors weigh in on its expanding export capacity and the strategic importance of its gas holdings in the regional industrial recovery. Following closely was the regional banking giant BK Group Plc (BKG), which gained 3.91% to reach a price of KES 47.80. BK Group's performance is often seen as a bellwether for the East African financial services sector, and today's gains suggest a strong institutional backing for the Rwandan-based lender. Agricultural firm Eaagads Ltd (EGAD) also secured a spot in the top three, climbing 3.33% to KES 31.00. Other notable performers included Centum Investment Company (CTUM), which rose by 3.14% to KES 14.80, and British American Tobacco Kenya (BAT), which gained KES 15.00 to close at KES 579.00.
Sector Performance: Manufacturing and Financials Power the Rally
The manufacturing and FMCG sectors were the primary engines of growth during this session. British American Tobacco (BAT) and East African Breweries Ltd (EABL) both posted impressive gains of 2.66% and 2.38% respectively. EABL, which closed at KES 269.25, continues to benefit from its dominant position in the regional beverage market and its aggressive pivot toward premium brands. The financial sector also demonstrated resilience and growth. Beyond BK Group, Standard Chartered Bank Kenya (SCBK) appreciated by 1.52% to KES 335.00, while I&M Holdings (IMH) rose by 1.50% to KES 50.75. The insurance segment was not left behind, with Liberty Kenya Holdings (LBTY), Sanlam Kenya (SLAM), and CIC Insurance Group (CIC) all recording gains between 1.62% and 1.98%. This collective movement suggests a sectoral rotation where investors are seeking refuge in well-capitalized financial institutions with a history of consistent dividend payouts.
Market Sentiment: Construction and Infrastructure Resilience
Sentiment within the construction and allied sectors remained buoyant, reflecting the ongoing infrastructural projects and a recovering real estate market in the Nairobi metropolitan area. East African Portland Cement (PORT) saw its share price rise by 1.52% to KES 83.75, while Crown Paints Kenya (CRWN) appreciated by 1.72% to KES 59.00. The rise in Crown Paints' valuation is particularly indicative of the increased demand in the finishing and renovation market as high-end residential projects reach completion. Home Afrika Ltd (HAFR), a key player in the mass-market real estate sector, also posted a gain of 2.41%, indicating that speculative interest is returning to the small-cap segment. Even the aviation sector showed signs of life, with Kenya Airways (KQ) gaining 1.48% to close at KES 5.48, possibly buoyed by improved tourism numbers and regional cargo demand. Overall, the market breadth was positive, with gainers significantly outnumbering losers, cementing a bullish outlook for the remainder of the quarter.
- Carbacid Investments (CARB) led the gainers with a 4.78% jump.
- The banking sector remains a favorite for institutional investors, with BK Group and I&M gaining ground.
- Manufacturing giants BAT and EABL provided heavy-duty support to the index.
- Real estate and construction counters like Home Afrika and Portland Cement showed steady recovery.
Comments