Russian stocks close mixed on mixed background, strong ruble

MOSCOW, Oct 4 (PRIME) -- The Russian stocks closed mixed on Friday as the external background sent conflicting signals and a strong ruble supported the RTS Index, analysts said.

The MOEX Russia Index fell 0.55% to 2,692.55 and the RTS increased 0.36% to 1,311.65.

“The MOEX Russia Index and the RTS Index traded differently today. The ruble-denominated indicator was under pressure from the external background, while the RTS Index received support from a strong ruble,” Yelena Kozhukhova, analyst at Veles Capital, said.

The oil prices climbed above U.S. $58 per barrel, but were still under pressure from market glut and prospects of a slowdown in demand, while the U.S. stock index futures were in the red prior to the start of trade in the U.S., Kozhukhova said.

Andrei Kochetkov, senior analyst at Otkritie Broker, said that exporters were the weakest performers hurt by the strong ruble.

Shares of metals giant Norilsk Nickel fell 4.26% to 15,894 rubles due to a dividend cut-off, Kochetkov said.

Kozhukhova also said that common shares of oil company Tatneft gained 0.77% to 681.50 rubles as the securities attempted a restoration from a multi-week minimum reached on Thursday.

Below are the MOEX Russia Index’ five most active stocks on Friday:

Company	Change, %	Last price, rbl	Trading volume, bln rbl
Sberbank	-0.59	222.76	7.229
Gazprom	-0.65	221.66	4.909
Lukoil	-0.51	5335.00	3.364
Norilsk Nickel	-4.26	15894.00	2.769
Tatneft	+0.77	681.50	1.293

(65.1312 rubles – U.S. $1)

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