Key Takeaways From The 22nd Alpha Morgan Economic Review

The 22nd edition of the bi-monthly Alpha Morgan Economic Review held on Wednesday 23rd September 2026.

With Nigeria’s interest-rate landscape taking a significant turn from the last MPC, Alpha Morgan Bank brought together industry leaders and investors at the 22nd edition of its Alpha Morgan Economic Review to examine what the latest policy shift means for the economy, markets and investment decisions.

The zoom session featured economic analyst Bismarck Rewane, who discussed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s 350-basis-point reduction in the Monetary Policy Rate from 26.5% to 23%, and its implications for savers, borrowers, businesses and investors.

The discussion covered the outlook for inflation, the naira and investment markets, interest rates, exchange rate stability, declining fixed income yields and growing interest in equities and IPOs, including the Dangote Petroleum Refinery public offer.

The Alpha Morgan Economic Review reflects Alpha Morgan’s commitment to fostering informed conversations on developments shaping Nigeria’s economy and financial markets.

While the economic landscape continues to evolve, the economic conversation continues in November 2026.

The economic review webinar holds bi-monthly and the 23rd edition is scheduled for 25th of November 2026.

Watch the Webinar Recording here – /ReplayAMER22

Get the Webinar Presentation here – /PresentationAMER22

41-Year-Old Ronaldo Leads Portugal Against Wales in Nations League Opener—-At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo remains at the heart of Portugal’s plans as Jorge Jesus begins his reign with a Nations League clash against Wales.

Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal into their 2026/27 UEFA Nations League campaign when the reigning champions face Wales in Lisbon on Thursday night.

At 41, the veteran forward has been confirmed as a starter by new head coach Jorge Jesus, continuing his remarkable international career as Portugal begin a new chapter under their former Al-Nassr manager.

The clash at the Estádio José Alvalade is Jesus’ first competitive match as Portugal manager following his appointment in July. The experienced coach previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and has made it clear that selection will be based on performance rather than reputation.

“His performance is what matters. The past doesn’t count,” Jesus said when Ronaldo was included in his first Portugal squad.

Ronaldo enters the new Nations League campaign following Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they were knocked out by eventual champions Spain in the Round of 16.

The defeat prompted Ronaldo to consider his international future, but the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has not announced his retirement. Ahead of the Wales match, he said he still believes he can contribute to the national team and would only stop when he feels he is no longer making an impact.

“I still believe that I’m able to help the national team,” Ronaldo said.

The Portugal captain is also chasing another remarkable milestone. He currently has 979 career goals, leaving him 21 short of the 1,000-goal landmark he has openly targeted. Ronaldo said he would like to reach the milestone with Portugal, describing it as a potential “beautiful story.”

Jorge Jesus Begins Portugal Reign

Jesus takes charge of Portugal for the first time in a competitive fixture after replacing Roberto Martínez following the country’s World Cup exit.

The 72-year-old coach knows Ronaldo well from their time together at Al-Nassr and has given the veteran captain another opportunity to lead the national team.

However, Jesus has stressed that Ronaldo will not receive preferential treatment. His place in the starting lineup will depend on his performances, just like every other player in the squad.

Jesus will now look to begin his tenure with a strong Nations League campaign as Portugal attempt to defend the trophy they won in 2025.

Wales Provide Opening Test

Wales arrive in Lisbon for their opening Group A4 fixture, with Portugal, Norway and Denmark completing the group.

The Welsh side will face a Portugal team packed with experience, including Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias.

For Portugal, the objective is to make a strong start to their Nations League title defence, while Wales will look to produce an early statement against the reigning champions.

The match also brings back memories of Euro 2016, when Ronaldo scored as Portugal defeated Wales 2-0 in the semi-finals before going on to win their first European Championship.

Ronaldo’s International Journey Continues

At 41, Ronaldo remains one of the central figures in Portuguese football.

Although he has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup was his final World Cup appearance, he has not set a retirement date for international football. His immediate focus remains on contributing to Portugal and helping the team compete for another Nations League trophy.

With a new coach in charge, a new Nations League campaign beginning and the 1,000-goal milestone within reach, Ronaldo’s Portugal story continues.

For now, the captain remains focused on the present — and another opportunity to lead his country on the international stage.