The platform will enable unlisted commercial banks, cooperative societies and private companies access the benefits of an efficient over the counter market anchored on leading technology capabilities and resources.

Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 1.94-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 1.92-to-1 ratio favored advancers

Secondary bond market on the Nairobi Securities Exchange posted a decline in activity during Thursday's session with bonds worth Kes 2.30 billion traded in 102 deals during today’s session

Oil prices were higher in the afternoon of Asia trading hours, with international benchmark Brent crude futures up 1.23% to $51.71 per barrel. U.S. crude futures gained 1.34% to $48.46 per barrel.

Southwest Airlines Co fell 1.5% after flagging a higher cash burn in the fourth quarter, as well as increased trip cancellations in December.