Russian Stocks End Mixed as MOEX Index Closes Flat Amid Commodity Volatility

Russian stocks finished Saturday’s trading session slightly lower overall, with the MOEX Russia Index closing flat at 0.00% in Moscow. Market performance was mixed, as gains in select heavyweight stocks were offset by losses in telecommunications and energy shares, reflecting cautious investor sentiment amid movements in global commodities and currencies.

Among the top gainers on the MOEX Russia Index was Polyus PJSC, which climbed 1.85% to close at 2,417.40, supported by higher gold prices. OZON also posted a strong performance, rising 1.36% to 4,541.00 and reaching a new 52-week high, highlighting continued investor confidence in the e-commerce sector. OK Rusal MKPAO added 1.11% to end the session at 34.51, benefiting from interest in metal-related stocks.

On the downside, Rostelekom PJSC slipped 0.56% to 63.64, while TATNEFT n.a. V.D. Shashin declined 0.41% to 581.90. VK Company Ltd also closed lower, easing 0.36% to 304.40. Despite these losses, market breadth remained positive, with advancing stocks outnumbering declining ones by 143 to 81, while 24 securities ended unchanged.

Volatility remained stable, as the Russian Volatility Index (RVI) held steady at 27.46, suggesting no major shift in near-term market expectations. In commodities, gold futures for February delivery rose 1.11%, boosting sentiment in precious metal stocks. In contrast, oil prices moved sharply lower, with February crude oil falling 2.76% to $56.74 per barrel and Brent crude dropping 2.57% to $60.64, pressuring energy-related equities.

In the currency market, the Russian ruble strengthened against major currencies. The USD/RUB pair fell 0.58% to 77.56, while EUR/RUB declined 0.63% to 91.31. Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index futures edged up slightly, reflecting modest dollar strength globally.

Overall, Russian stock market performance reflected a balance between commodity-driven gains and sector-specific weakness, leaving the MOEX Index unchanged by the close.