The Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc (NSE) has temporarily halted trading of East African Breweries PLC (EABL) shares for the remainder of the trading day, citing the release of market-sensitive information.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the NSE said the suspension was effected after EABL issued a cautionary announcement during market hours, alongside the circulation of information that could significantly influence investor decisions.

“The Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc (NSE) informs investors and market participants that trading in the ordinary shares of East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has been halted for the remainder of the trading day,” read the Nairobi Securities Exchange X statement in part.

The exchange noted that the move was necessary to promote orderly trading and ensure that all investors have equal access to material information.

“The measure has been taken to promote orderly trading and ensure equitable access to information among all market participants. Trading in the EABL counter will resume on the next trading day,” the NSE said.

Trading in the EABL counter is expected to resume on the next trading day, in line with standard exchange procedures.

According to the NSE release, the halt follows the release of a cautionary announcement by the issuer during trading hours, accompanied by the prior circulation of market-sensitive information.

The halt coincided with the disclosure of a major corporate transaction involving EABL’s majority shareholder, Diageo Plc. The British multinational beverage company announced that it had agreed to sell its 65 percent stake in EABL to Japan’s Asahi Group Holdings Ltd. The transaction is expected to yield Diageo’s net proceeds of about $2.3 billion after tax and transaction costs.

Regulatory oversight

The NSE said the temporary suspension underscores its role in safeguarding market integrity, particularly when significant corporate developments emerge during active trading sessions.

Such halts are a common regulatory tool used to prevent disorderly trading and excessive speculation when material information is released without sufficient time for investor assessment.

“NSE plays a vital role in the growth of Kenya’s economy through mobilisation of domestic resources and international capital.”