The Ghana Stock Exchange has been experiencing massive activity lately, with top stocks climbing steadily and investor confidence rising. For those already holding shares, this represents an opportunity to watch their investments grow and plan for profits or reinvestment. For individuals yet to enter the space, it’s an exciting moment, but it also brings a natural question: how do I start buying stocks in Ghana?
Investing in shares is one of the most practical ways to grow wealth over time. Each share represents a small ownership stake in a company, meaning your money works for you as the business grows. Profits for shareholders typically come in two forms: price gains, when shares rise in value, and dividends, periodic payments made from the company’s profits.
Tracking Market Gains on February 26, 2026
Yesterday, some of Ghana’s biggest companies recorded notable price movements, reflecting strong investor activity and optimism on the bourse:
- GCB Bank PLC (GCB) – opened at GH¢35.51 and closed at GH¢35.43, moving steadily throughout the session
- Access Bank Ghana PLC (ACCESS) – opened at GH¢31.90 and closed higher at GH¢35.05, a gain of GH¢3.15
- Ecobank Ghana PLC (EGH) – started at GH¢51.04 and closed at GH¢52.10, up GH¢1.06
- MTN Ghana (Scancom PLC, MTNGH) – opened at GH¢5.58 and ended slightly lower at GH¢5.56
These movements illustrate price movements, where a stock’s value rises or falls during trading, providing an opportunity for investors to make profits if they choose to sell. Price gains signal market confidence in the company’s performance, while continued upward trends suggest potential for further appreciation.
For investors, daily price increases signal market optimism and potential capital gains, while dividends provide steady income even when prices fluctuate.
How Investors Make Money: Price Gains and Dividends
1. Price Gain
Price gain occurs when the market value of a share rises above the price at which it was purchased. This is typically driven by strong demand for the stock, positive investor sentiment, or confidence in the company’s performance. For instance, yesterday’s trading saw Access Bank Ghana PLC (ACCESS) rise from GH¢31.90 to GH¢35.05, GCB Bank PLC (GCB) maintain solid movement around GH¢35, and Ecobank Ghana PLC (EGH) climb from GH¢51.04 to GH¢52.10.
When investors sell shares at these higher prices, they realize capital gains, translating market movements into actual profits. Consistent price gains, as observed in these stocks, signal robust investor confidence, often reflecting expectations of continued growth, strong earnings reports, or favorable market conditions.
However, it is important to note that price gains are not guaranteed. Share prices can fluctuate daily due to market dynamics, economic news, sector performance, or broader financial trends. An investor may experience paper gains (unrealized increases) if prices move up temporarily but could incur losses if the market reverses before selling. Therefore, careful monitoring and a long-term perspective are key to benefiting from price appreciation.
2. Dividends
Dividends represent a company sharing a portion of its profits directly with shareholders, usually paid quarterly or annually. Dividends provide tangible returns even if stock prices remain flat and can be reinvested to buy additional shares, accelerating wealth accumulation over time. For example, banks like GCB and Ecobank historically distribute dividends, rewarding shareholders while supporting confidence in their long-term growth.
By combining price gains with dividend income, investors can enjoy both short-term opportunities and long-term wealth building. While price gains capture market-driven profit potential, dividends offer a steady, less volatile return, balancing the inherent risk of equity investing.
Together, price appreciation and dividends form the twin engines of stock market wealth creation.
Steps to Buying Shares on the GSE
For anyone ready to start investing, here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
- Choose a licensed brokerage firm – You cannot buy shares directly from the Ghana Stock Exchange. Only SEC-approved brokers can trade on your behalf. A full list is available on the GSE and SEC websites.
- Open a Central Securities Depository (CSD) account – This account is like a bank account for your shares. You will need:
- A valid ID (Ghana Card, Passport, or Driver’s License)
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy agreement)
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Once set up, you receive a CSD number, which identifies you as a shareholder.
- Fund your brokerage account – Deposit money into your account via bank transfer, mobile money, or cheque. Some brokers allow you to start with as little as GH¢100.
- Select your shares – Research companies’ performance, profitability, and dividend history. Look for consistent growth and stable sectors like banking, telecoms, and consumer goods.
- Place your order – Instruct your broker to buy shares:
- Market order – buy at the current price
- Limit order – buy at a specified price
- You’ll receive confirmation once the transaction is complete, and your shares will appear in your CSD account.
- Monitor your investments – Track share prices, market summaries, and volumes, but avoid panic over minor daily fluctuations. Focus on long-term growth.
- Receive dividends and sell when ready – Dividends are paid directly to your bank account. When prices rise enough to meet your investment goals, instruct your broker to sell your shares for a profit.
- Seek guidance – If new to investing, start small and learn gradually. Attend broker workshops or GSE investment education programs to understand market trends and avoid common pitfalls.
Final Thoughts
The Ghana Stock Exchange is no longer an exclusive club for the wealthy. With rising stock prices in GCB, Access, Ecobank, and MTN, now is a prime time for both new and seasoned investors to participate. By combining careful research, long-term planning, and regular monitoring, anyone can begin building wealth through shares.
