A. SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)
The UAE stock markets reported flat trading on Monday after recovering some of the losses incurred during the recent bear run.
The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) General Index (FADGI) edged down 0.009% to 9,987, slipping below the 10,000 mark. Trading remained active, with 17,730 trades involving 204 million shares and a total value of Dh834 million. Total market capitalisation of ADX-listed stocks stood at Dh3.153 trillion.
Gains in technology, real estate, healthcare and energy stocks offset losses elsewhere. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) and ADNOC Distribution gained 1% each on a day of muted trading. Presight, the artificial intelligence company of G42, rose 2.96%, while ADNOC Gas added 0.867% and Aldar gained 0.45%.
Invictus, which is listed on the secondary market known as the Growth Market, surged 10% after International Holding Company (IHC) increased its stake to 40%. On the downside, Dana Gas slipped 5.3%, while Abu Dhabi Ship Building fell 1.2%.
Abu Dhabi equities have shown relative resilience, supported by energy-linked companies, sovereign backing and a steady pipeline of listings, Milad Azar, market analyst at XTB MENA, told Aletihad.
“Foreign investor interest remains healthy, helping to cushion downside risks. Going forward, the ADX is expected to maintain stable performance, with moderate upside potential tied to earnings growth and broader economic stability,” Azar said.
In Dubai, the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) General Index (DFMGI) declined 0.133% to close at 6,089.38. The session recorded 11,902 trades, with 181 million shares traded at a total value of Dh559 million. Market breadth showed 17 gainers, 29 decliners and seven unchanged stocks.
Ajman Bank was the star performer, rising 3% after the Ajman government increased its stake in the bank. Most DFM blue-chip stocks recorded muted trading, with marginal gains or losses.
“While short-term volatility persists, overall sentiment is underpinned by solid economic growth, strong tourism activity and rising international investor interest,” Azar said.
“IPO activity and continued capital inflows could support further gains, though markets remain sensitive to regional and global developments,” he added.