Kenya’s equity and bond markets gain amid higher trading activity
By Faith Lagat, January 17, 2026Kenya’s equity and bond markets recorded gains during the week ending January 15, 2026, reflecting sustained investor activity, according to the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) update shared via X on January 16, 2026.
The report shows positive momentum in both domestic and international segments, underscoring growing confidence in Kenyan securities.
Equity market performance
Activity at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) saw upward movement across key indices. “At the Nairobi Securities Exchange, the NASI, NSE 25 and NSE 20 share price indices increased by 0.93 percent, 0.36 percent and 1.06 percent, respectively during the week ending January 15,” the CBK report stated.
Market capitalisation also rose by 0.93 percent, while equity turnover increased by 9.75 percent. Total shares traded declined slightly by 3.10 percent, reflecting selective trading activity amid rising investor interest.
Analysts noted that the gains in indices and turnover indicate confidence in listed companies and ongoing market participation.
Bond market trends
The domestic bond market experienced significant growth, particularly in secondary trading. “Bond turnover in the domestic secondary market increased by 148.11 percent during the week ending January 15,” the CBK noted.
On the international front, yields on Kenya’s Eurobonds fell by an average of 20.13 basis points, while the 10-year Eurobonds for Angola and Ivory Coast also recorded declines.
These movements point to favorable conditions for both domestic and foreign investors, with reduced yields making borrowing costs more predictable and encouraging investment in Kenyan securities.
Global developments
Domestic gains coincided with evolving global trends. Inflation concerns in advanced economies eased, with headline inflation in the United States remaining stable at 2.7 percent in November and December 2025, while core inflation stayed at 2.6 percent in December.
“The U.S. Dollar Index strengthened by 0.39 percent during the week ending January 15, 2026,” the report indicated.
Additionally, international oil prices rose, with Murban crude oil trading at USD 64.31 per barrel on January 15, up from USD 61.00 per barrel on January 8, “due to increased draw-down of US oil inventories, amid elevated oil market concerns arising from heightened geopolitical risks.”