Russia Stocks End Flat as Key Blue Chips Post Mixed Performance

Russia’s stock market closed Saturday’s session on a steady note, with the MOEX Russia Index ending unchanged at 0.00%. Despite the flat finish, several major stocks showed notable movement, reflecting mixed sentiment across sectors.

PhosAgro PJSC emerged as the session’s top performer, gaining 0.38% to reach 6,595.00 rubles. The fertilizer producer’s steady climb highlights continued interest in commodity-linked equities. Close behind, NOVATEK PJSC advanced 0.31% to 1,170.00 rubles, supported by stable demand in the energy sector. The Moscow Exchange (MOEX) also saw a slight uptick of 0.31%, closing at 171.68 rubles as trading activity remained firm.

On the downside, Moskovskiy Kreditnyi Bank led the decliners with a 1.07% drop to 8.11 rubles. TATNEFT slipped 0.50% to 599.50 rubles, pressured by softer oil prices, while Rostelekom PJSC dipped 0.37% to 58.53 rubles.

Market breadth leaned positive, with 111 stocks advancing, 86 declining, and 34 finishing unchanged. The Russian Volatility Index (RVI) held steady at 37.67, signaling no major shifts in trader expectations.

In commodities, gold futures for February delivery rose 1.25% to $4,269.80 per troy ounce, reflecting stronger safe-haven demand. Crude oil for January delivery edged down 0.17% to $58.55 a barrel, while Brent for February dropped 0.78% to $62.38, extending pressure on energy-linked equities.

Currency markets also moved in favor of the ruble, with USD/RUB sliding 0.58% to 77.50 and EUR/RUB dropping 0.57% to 89.87. Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index futures eased 0.11% to 99.41 amid broader dollar weakness.

Overall, Russia’s market wrapped up the day with balanced sentiment, minor gains in key sectors, and ongoing global commodity and currency fluctuations shaping investor outlook.