Russia Stocks Close Higher as Mining, Energy Shares Lead MOEX Gains

Russian stocks ended Monday’s trading session higher, with the MOEX Russia Index posting moderate gains as strong performances in the mining, oil and gas, and power sectors supported overall market sentiment. By the close of trading in Moscow, the benchmark MOEX Russia Index advanced 0.60%, reflecting improved investor appetite for commodity-linked and energy stocks.

Leading the rally were major mining companies. AK ALROSA PJSC climbed 2.08% to close at 42.29, benefiting from renewed interest in raw material producers. Polyus PJSC followed closely, gaining 1.91% to finish at 2,610.00, while MMC Norilsk Nickel PJSC added 1.51% to end the session at 158.70. Notably, Norilsk Nickel shares reached a new 52-week high, underscoring strong momentum in the metals sector.

On the downside, real estate and technology stocks faced selling pressure. PIK SHb PJSC fell 1.89% to 462.50, making it one of the weakest performers of the day. VK Company Ltd declined 1.58% to 292.60, while Rostelekom PJSC dropped 1.42% to close at 63.20. Despite these losses, advancing stocks significantly outnumbered declining ones on the Moscow Stock Exchange, with 161 gainers versus 80 losers, indicating broadly positive market breadth.

Market volatility continued to ease, as the Russian Volatility Index (RVI) slipped 0.79% to 22.61, marking a fresh 52-week low. In commodities, gold futures surged 1.77% to $4,676.70 per troy ounce, supporting mining stocks. Oil prices were mixed, with March crude oil rising 0.15% to $59.43 per barrel and Brent crude edging up to $64.15.

In currency markets, the Russian ruble strengthened against major currencies, with USD/RUB falling 0.63% to 77.51 and EUR/RUB down 0.24% to 90.23. Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index futures declined 0.36%, adding support to emerging market assets, including Russian equities.