Zenith Bank Nears N2trn Valuation Ahead of Dividend Pay

Zenith Bank Plc has edged closer to the coveted ₦2 trillion market valuation mark on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), buoyed by a rally that lifted its market worth by 5.7% ahead of the anticipated release of its first-quarter financial results and the payment of dividends.

Data from the Exchange indicates that the bank’s share price climbed to ₦46.50 on Friday, following the trade of 22.935 million shares valued at ₦1.045 billion. The significant volume of transactions, especially those attributed to foreign investors via open transactions, signalled a strong vote of confidence in the bank’s prospects.

The renewed investor interest, driven by positive sentiment and the search for value, resulted in a robust four-day rally that pushed the market value of Zenith Bank’s 41.069 billion outstanding shares to ₦1.909 trillion. Despite this impressive rally, the share price still trades at a discount compared to its 52-week high, suggesting further upside potential.

Zenith Bank is scheduled to hold its 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, 29th April 2025, where shareholders are expected to approve the group’s proposed dividend payment of ₦4 per share. The Nigerian Exchange had earlier marked down Zenith Bank’s share price to reflect the final dividend declaration following the bank’s strong earnings performance.

The market is keenly awaiting the release of Zenith Bank’s first-quarter financial statements for 2025, which are due in compliance with regulatory requirements. Analysts expect the results to reinforce the bank’s reputation for resilience and profitability, further boosting investor appetite.

The consistent interest in Zenith Bank shares highlights the enduring appeal of the lender to both local and foreign investors, particularly as the bank maintains a strong balance sheet, robust earnings growth, and a generous dividend policy.

As the dividend payment approaches and the earnings report looms, market watchers anticipate continued momentum in Zenith Bank’s stock, with the possibility of a breakthrough above the ₦2 trillion valuation threshold in the days ahead