Step 1: Trade execution on the NGX
Your platform (Shares Saver) instructs its regulated broker partner to buy the specified number of shares on the Nigerian Exchange. The broker places and executes the order at the prevailing market price.
Once you have bought shares in a Nigerian company through a regulated platform, the transaction goes through several steps before the shares are fully yours. Here is what happens after you press "invest".
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Definition
The process that occurs after a share purchase on the NGX, including T+2 settlement, CSCS registration, and shareholder record updates.
Your platform (Shares Saver) instructs its regulated broker partner to buy the specified number of shares on the Nigerian Exchange. The broker places and executes the order at the prevailing market price.
The trade settles two business days after execution. During this window, CSCS processes the transfer of shares from the seller to the buyer (you). Payment is also transferred from your broker to the seller's broker.
After settlement, your CSCS account is credited with the purchased shares. This is the official record of your ownership at the depository level.
The company's registrar updates the shareholder register to include your name. This is what makes you a legal shareholder — eligible for dividends, corporate actions, and AGM voting rights.
As a registered shareholder, you will receive: dividends (if declared), AGM notices, rights issue offers, and any other corporate communications directed to shareholders. With Shares Saver, you can also monitor your portfolio directly in the app.
Shares are reflected in your CSCS account approximately two business days after the trade date (T+2 settlement). You may see the trade as pending in the Shares Saver app before settlement completes.
No. Nigerian shares are now held electronically in your CSCS account. Paper share certificates were phased out with the introduction of dematerialisation. Your CSCS account record is the equivalent.
Dividends are declared at the company's discretion — typically after annual or interim results. You will receive dividends for any shares you hold on the record date. Some companies pay annually, others pay interim dividends too.
No. When you buy through a regulated platform or broker, the registration process is handled automatically on your behalf. Your shares are credited to your CSCS account under your CHN number after settlement without any additional steps required from you.
You can check your shareholding through your investment app or platform dashboard. You can also contact the company share registrar directly or log in to the CSCS portal if you have direct access. Your CHN number is the primary reference for any ownership enquiries.
A portfolio is the full collection of shares you own across all companies. Your Shares Saver app displays your portfolio with the current market value and quantity of each holding. You can also track your holdings by contacting your stockbroker or by logging into the CSCS portal using your CHN number.
Important disclaimer
This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, investment advice, legal advice, or tax advice. The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Seek independent regulated financial advice before making any investment decision. Shares Saver does not provide financial advice.
Shares Saver lets you buy and own NGX-listed shares directly in your own name through regulated broker execution.
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