Between January and August 2026, the Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) posted a net positive foreign investment flow of Rs 206.38 million. The SEMDEX holds at 2,294.86 points and market capitalisation stands at Rs 322.3 billion — a resilience signal in a globally turbulent environment.
Foreign flows in positive territory for eight months running
Over the first eight months of the year, non-resident investors purchased Rs 1.63 billion worth of Mauritian equities, against Rs 1.43 billion in sales. This net positive balance of Rs 206.38 million signals persistent confidence from foreign investors in the Mauritian exchange. Month after month since January, the SEM has recorded net inflows — indicating that institutional fund managers are maintaining their exposure to the Mauritian market despite international volatility.
A mixed week for the SEMDEX
The week of September 8–12 saw a slight correction nonetheless. The SEMTRI (total return index) slipped 0.21% to 11,299.44 points, while the SEMDEX steadied at 2,294.86 points and the SEM-10 at 437.67. Weekly trading volumes reached Rs 195 million, driven almost entirely by MCB Group Limited (Rs 192.2 million traded), confirming the dominance of Mauritius's largest bank in market turnover.
Of 63 listed securities, 18 gained, 32 remained stable and 13 declined. Notable gainers: Automatic Systems Ltd (+11.05%) and National Investment Trust Ltd (+5.56%). Losers included Phoenix Beverages Ltd (-4.64%) and Lottotech Ltd (-3.06%).
A market digesting fiscal reforms
The Mauritian equity market is adjusting to the effects of the Finance Act 2026, including a new 35% top marginal tax rate on high earners and full tax exemptions for tech startups. These measures are gradually reshaping the relative attractiveness of different listed asset classes. Analysts are watching a sector rotation play out among financial, hospitality, and technology stocks.
Why it matters
A sustained positive net foreign flow — even a modest one — on the SEM is a barometer of Mauritius's attractiveness as a regional financial hub. As the island positions itself as Africa's trusted digital finance platform by 2030, maintaining non-resident investor confidence is strategically critical. Market capitalisation at Rs 322.3 billion remains a solid anchor for the archipelago's financial sector.
Source: Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) — week of September 9, 2026 data; allAfrica.com.