Russian stocks fall dragged by pessimism on global floors

MOSCOW, Dec 18 (PRIME) -- Russian stocks decreased on Friday dragged by negative dynamics on Western floors, analysts said.  

The MOEX Russia Index fell 0.27% to 3,273.75 and the RTS decreased 1.18% to 1,402.50.

“The MOEX Russia Index and RTS remained in a correctional minus by the end of trading, but retreated from the session’s lows,” Veles Capital analyst Yelena Kozhukhova said.

The foreign background was mixed. Trading in the U.S. started with small growth of three main indices, which were losing 0.3–0.5% by the end of the Russian session. Moderately negative moods prevailed on European floors.

The nearest futures for Brent and WTI oil switched to growth by the end of the day and were adding around 1%.

Gas producer Novatek was among growth leaders, adding 3.42% on the company’s intention to raise the minimum target level of dividends.

Children goods retailer Detsky Mir dropped by 5.48%. Aluminum giant UC RUSAL fell 4.18% amid enhanced sanction risks on reports about Oleg Deripaska continuing to influence the company.

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

Company	Change, %	Last price, rbl	Trading volume, bln rbl
Gazprom	-0.11	214.28	26.830
Sberbank	-2.64	271.15	25.014
Lukoil	-0.75	5149.00	13.303
Norilsk Nickel	+0.43	23574.00	7.589
Polyus	+1.35	15493.00	5.175

(72.9781 rubles – U.S. $1)

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