Stocks in Finland advanced markedly by the end of Thursday's session, propelled by strong performances in key sectors such as Basic Materials, Utilities, and Oil & Gas. The OMX Helsinki 25 index finished the day higher by 1.67%, reflecting overall market optimism in Helsinki.
Nokian Renkaat Oyj (HE:TYRES) emerged as the day's top gainer on the index, climbing 4.64% to close at 11.28 euros. This increase elevated the stock to a new 52-week high, marking a notable milestone for the company. Close behind, SSAB AB B (HE:SSABBH) also posted significant gains, rising 4.44% to 7.34 euros and similarly reaching a 52-week peak. Stora Enso Oyj R (HE:STERV) contributed robustly to the rally, advancing 3.64% to a closing price of 10.54 euros.
On the downside, Sampo Oyj A (HE:SAMPO) exhibited a slight decline of 0.20%, ending at 9.78 euros. TietoEVRY Corp (HE:TIETO) remained stable with no change at 19.20 euros, while Wartsila Oyj Abp (HE:WRT1V) edged up marginally by 0.03%, settling at 32.99 euros.
The market breadth was overwhelmingly positive, with 146 stocks advancing, 33 declining, and 11 remaining unchanged across the Helsinki Stock Exchange.
Commodity markets showed mixed signals; Brent crude oil for March delivery decreased by 1.93% to $63.98 per barrel, and US crude oil prices declined 2.06% to $59.37 per barrel for March delivery. Conversely, gold futures for February delivery increased 0.89%, trading at $4,880.54 per troy ounce. Currency movements included a 0.44% rise in EUR/USD to 1.17 and relative stability in EUR/GBP at 0.87. The U.S. Dollar Index futures dipped 0.37% to 98.20.