Kenyan Wallstreet

How Kenya's $10B Crypto Surge Is Challenging the Dollar Shortage - Felix Macharia

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:03:00 GMT

Is Kenya's $10 Billion crypto market the silent solution to the nation's persistent dollar shortage?

In this technical deep dive, we sit down with Felix Macharia, CEO of Kotani Pay, to explore the massive institutional shift toward stablecoins in East Africa. While retail speculation often grabs the headlines, the real story lies in Kenya's manufacturing and trade sectors.

As the Kenyan Shilling faced historic volatility—moving from 122 to over 160 against the USD—traditional banking liquidity dried up. Felix explains how a $10 Billion "on-chain" surge (verified by IMF-style forensic blockchain data) allowed businesses to bypass bank queues and settle international trade using USDT and USDC.

In this episode, we substantiate:

The $10B Figure: Why forensic data proves the market is larger than traditional reports suggest.

The Institutional Pivot: How 60% of volume is now driven by corporate treasury management.

The Dollar Crisis: How blockchains provided a "Plan B" for manufacturers when USD liquidity vanished.

Regulation & 2026 Outlook: The impact of the VASP Act and Tether's strategic investment in Kenya's payment rails.

$2B in a day : Inside Invest Kenya's Strategy to Secure Regional Investment Dominance

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:57:00 GMT

Can Kenya secure $2 Billion in investment in a single day? In this exclusive business interview, we sit down with John Mwendwa, CEO of Invest Kenya, to break down the ambitious roadmap for the Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO) 2026.

As global capital markets shift, Kenya is positioning itself not just as a regional leader, but as a $75 Trillion market access hub. We explore the high-ticket deals in agriculture, tech, and renewable energy, and why the "Invest in Kenya" brand is seeing record-breaking FDI momentum.

Key Discussion Points:

The $2 Billion Milestone: How KIICO 2026 aims to close massive deals in under 24 hours.

Global Pivot: Why Kenya is looking "Forward"—tapping into Middle Eastern capital (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) and Japanese markets.

Priority Sectors: Deep dives into Agribusiness, ICT/BPO, and the $75 Trillion market access via EPA, AfCFTA, and AGOA.

Risk vs. Reward: A candid look at currency stability, political transitions, and Kenya's 93% renewable energy advantage.

Trading Bell Exclusive TownHall with KPC MD, Joe Sang

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:00:00 GMT

For this special Live Trading Bell Townhall, the spotlight will be on a deep-dive conversation with Joe Sang, Managing Director of Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), as we unpack the details behind one of Kenya's most anticipated listings.

This session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the man at the helm of KPC at a defining moment in the company's history — moving from a state corporation to a publicly traded entity — and to better understand how this transaction fits into Kenya's broader capital markets and privatization agenda

The Fastest Growing Ad Agency in Africa

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 02:18:00 GMT

TKWS founder Erick Asuma sits down with Former WPP Scangroup veteran Sandeep Madan, Co-founder & CEO of The Partnership Africa. In this exclusive interview, Sandeep shares his audacious strategy for challenging the status quo, the importance of human connection in the age of AI, and directly addresses the controversial "poaching" accusations regarding former WPP Scangroup clients. Sandeep also shares more on his journey of building a leading marketing services company in East Africa in just two years. Discover his insights on industry evolution, the future of marketing, and The Partnership Africa's ambitious global expansion plans

Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa Speaks on Ethiopia Progress, Stock Price, New Products and Potential Starlink Partnership

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:33:00 GMT

In this episode, our co-founder Eric Asuma sits down with Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa to discuss the company's recent half-year financial results and the impact of Ethiopia's recent currency devaluation on group earnings. Peter shares insights on how, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, Safaricom's net income would have been up 21% if not for the currency depreciation. Safaricom Ethiopia has adjusted its breakeven timeline, extending it by one year to 2027.

The discussion also highlights M-Pesa's impressive growth in Ethiopia, exploring emerging use cases that are driving market expansion.

Peter provides an honest take on Safaricom's stock performance on the Nairobi Stock Exchange, reflecting on factors like foreign investor flight and macro issues that have impacted share value despite recent market rebounds.

Peter also shares updates on Safaricom's upcoming products in wealth management, insurance, and other financial services designed to help their customers to save and build liquid wealth.

Finally, Peter shares insights on potential collaborations with SpaceX/Starlink, exploring new frontiers in satellite technology and connectivity. Tune in to hear firsthand how Safaricom navigates growth and challenges in both local and international markets.

Navigating Transformation: Insurance Industry Insights

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:24:00 GMT

In this episode, Reena Moonoosamy, Group Chief Services Officer at National Insurance Co., Ltd. in Mauritius, speaks to Ally Mwakaneno on the evolving landscape of the insurance sector and the trends shaping the industry. She highlights the impact of emerging hazards, such as the pandemic and climate change, on the insurance sector. Reena also explores the role of InsurTech in Mauritius and the challenges and opportunities it presents. She emphasizes the importance of balancing risk management with innovation and ethical business practices. Additionally, Reena discusses the challenges of insurance penetration, the adoption of new technology, and addressing climate risks. The conversation explores the impact of innovation, risk management, and the advancement of African women in the financial sector. It discusses the introduction of innovative insurance products like parametric insurance to mitigate climate-related risks. The rise of usage-based insurance and the promotion of catastrophe bonds are also highlighted. The conversation emphasizes the need for relevant skill sets, a high-performing workforce, and partnerships with academic institutions. It addresses the challenges of increased competition, market saturation, and the shift towards purchasing insurance when needed. The importance of balancing risk and innovation is discussed, along with examples of how to achieve this balance. The conversation concludes by highlighting the role of the Angaza Awards in empowering African women in the financial sector and driving policy reforms.

Key Takeaways

The insurance sector is facing significant changes due to emerging risks like the pandemic and climate change, emphasizing the need to balance risk management with innovation and ethical practices.
InsurTech is driving rapid digital transformation, with the adoption of cloud-based solutions and AI to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the customer experience.
Insurance penetration remains low, requiring efforts to close protection gaps, while partnerships with academic institutions are crucial for developing relevant skill sets.
Insurers are addressing climate risks by using predictive analytics, introducing parametric insurance, and promoting catastrophe bonds to cover economic losses from natural disasters.
Demand for usage-based insurance is rising, with accurate monitoring systems and a shift towards purchasing insurance as needed, including embedded insurance and bundled offerings.
Increased competition and market saturation are creating challenges for insurers, making innovation and testing new technologies in controlled environments essential.
Empowering African women through initiatives like the Angaza Awards could drive policy reforms and further impact the financial sector.

Following a successful gathering in Kigali last year, the Angaza Forum heads to Nairobi, Kenya, from October 16th to 18th, 2024, bringing together the 2024 Angaza Award winners and women in the financial sector from across the Continent. The Angaza Forum 2024 will feature a lineup of compelling speakers, knowledge presentations, and training sessions, alongside ample networking opportunities.

This episode features:

Reena Moonoosamy - Group Chief Services Officer, National Insurance Co. Limited

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Host and Producer, Angaza Podcasts

Women in Leadership

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:03:00 GMT

Jo-Ann Pohl, senior advisor at Kearney Africa, shares her insights on effective leadership and the experiences of being a woman in the financial sector. She speaks to Patricia Kamau on the importance of change agility, empathetic curiosity, creative compliance, and courage as key attributes for effective leadership. Joanne emphasizes the need for continuous learning, networking, and advocating for oneself in order to succeed in the financial sector. She also discusses the progress that has been made for women in the industry and the importance of representation and gender intelligence. Joanne offers advice to young women entering the sector, including being confident, building a strong network, staying curious, embracing technology, and showing compassion.

This episode features:

Jo-Ann Pohl - Senior Advisor, Kearney South Africa

Patricia Kamau - Secretariat, Angaza Forums

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Producer

Empowering Africa's future leaders

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 04:02:00 GMT

Yawa Hansen-Quao, founder of Leading Ladies Network, discusses the importance of empowering Africa's future leaders through ethical leadership, gender parity, and inclusive governance. She shares the inspiration behind her organization and the work they do to support young girls and women in their leadership journeys. Yawa emphasizes the need to meet women where they are, provide practical and actionable advice, and create a network of support. She also highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with inclusive governance and the importance of financial empowerment for women. Yawa's book, 'The Leading Lady Way,' offers practical leadership lessons for women and girls.

Key Takeaways.

Ethical leadership, gender parity, and inclusive governance are crucial for empowering Africa's future leaders.
Meeting women where they are and providing practical and actionable advice is essential in supporting their leadership journeys.
Inclusive governance faces challenges related to tradition, religion, and culture, but also presents opportunities for empowerment.
Financial empowerment is important for women to pursue their ambitions and goals.
Mentorship, coaching, and support networks are key in helping women succeed in leadership.
Yawa's book, 'The Leading Lady Way,' offers practical leadership lessons for women and girls.

This episode features:

Yawa Hansen-Quao - Founder, Leading Ladies Network

Patricia Kamau - Secretariat, Angaza Forums

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Producer.

The Leadership Journey: Fostering Growth and Inclusion

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 10:01:00 GMT

Mary Mulili, the Managing Director and CEO of UBA Kenya, shares her leadership journey and the key drivers of success in the banking industry. She emphasizes the importance of customer centricity, innovation, and strategic partnerships in driving growth and inclusion. Mary also discusses the challenges faced by women in finance, such as work-life integration and stereotypes, and suggests actionable steps organizations can take to reduce these challenges. She highlights the significance of investing in oneself, building professional networks, volunteering, and raising one's hand for opportunities.

Takeaways

- Customer centricity, innovation, and strategic partnerships are key drivers of success in the banking industry.

- Women in finance face challenges such as work-life integration and stereotypes, but organizations can take actionable steps to reduce these challenges.

- Investing in oneself, building professional networks, volunteering, and raising one's hand for opportunities are important for career growth in the financial sector.

Following a successful gathering in Kigali last year, the Angaza Forum heads to Nairobi, Kenya, from October 16th to 18th, 2024, bringing together the 2024 Angaza Award winners and women in the financial sector from across the Continent. The Angaza Forum 2024 will feature a lineup of compelling speakers, knowledge presentations, and training sessions, alongside ample networking opportunities.

This episode features:

Mary Mulili - Managing Director and CEO UBA Kenya

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Host and Producer

ESG as a Catalyst for Economic Growth in Africa

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:25:00 GMT

In this insightful episode, we delve into the critical role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in shaping sustainable development across Africa. Our guest, Catherine Musakali, co-founder of the Women on Boards Network Kenya, shares her expertise on how ESG has evolved into a vital boardroom agenda. We explore how integrating these factors into financial and governance decisions can drive better business performance, enhance risk management, and foster a more inclusive society. Join us as we discuss the challenges, opportunities, and practical steps organizations can take to implement effective ESG strategies, ensuring long-term sustainability and success in a rapidly changing global landscape.

This episode features:

Catherine Musakali - Co-founder, Women on Boards Network Kenya

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Host and Producer

Investing Like an Executive with Stephen Lokonyo, MD of First Assurance

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 08:07:00 GMT

Stephen Lokonyo gives us an exclusive look behind the scenes at First Assurance - one of Kenya's oldest companies In this first episode of Season Two of the Investing Like an Executive series, Andrew Barden sits down with Stephen Lokonyo, the MD of First Assurance, to learn more about Kenya's insurance industry, find out more about FA's new products, and hear the story behind Mr. Lokonyo's career which led him to where he is today.

Empowering Women in Finance: Bridging Insurance Literacy and Financial Inclusion

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 06:36:00 GMT

This episode focuses on the role of member-based organizations, like the Organization of Eastern and Southern Africa Insurance (OESAI), in promoting financial inclusion, particularly for women in the financial sector.

Key Takeaways:

Financial Education: Financial education plays a crucial role in boosting public understanding of insurance products. Initiatives such as radio shows and social media campaigns by insurance associations in Kenya and South Africa have effectively increased insurance literacy.
Manifesto for African Women in Finance: The manifesto outlines three primary objectives which include collaborating with strategic partners to foster inclusive financial services, leveraging the influence of women in leadership positions to enhance financial inclusion and resilience and prioritizing the development of women's leadership capabilities within the financial sector.
Intersectionality of Issues: Climate change and other issues disproportionately affect women, particularly in low-income groups. The lack of access to financial resources and information further deepens these challenges.
Insurance Industry and Women's Needs: Developing insurance products that cater specifically to women's needs, such as maternity and health insurance, can be more effectively driven by having more women in leadership positions.
Empowerment of Women: Empowering women through financial resources and leadership opportunities is key to achieving financial inclusion. Placing more women in financially rewarding positions helps address broader social issues and enhances economic empowerment.
Role of Data: An insurance industry truly focused on women will demonstrate this through its data, with a significant portion of its clientele consisting of women.

This episode features:

Rose Wanda - Secretary General, Organisation of Eastern and Southern Africa Insurers (OESAI)

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Host and Producer.

Emerging Trends and Lessons Learned in the Insurance Sector

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 07:46:00 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi and Patience Muvea discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer behavior in the insurance sector. They explore the shifts in preference and demand, such as the increased uptake of private health insurance and life insurance. They also discuss the scaling back of secondary insurance products like motor insurance. Patience highlights the importance of flexible and tailored insurance solutions, as well as the need for insurers to adapt to digital channels and technologies. They also delve into emerging risks in the insurance sector, including artificial intelligence, climate change, and geopolitical risks. Patience emphasizes the significance of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) factors in shaping the future of the insurance industry and provides advice for aspiring women in the field.

This episode features:

Nuru Mugambi - Angaza Forum Chairperson.

Patience Muvea - Chief Actuary, Liberty Life Kenya.

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli - Producer.

#CEOChat; Tusekelege Joune Executive Director, Tanzania Bankers Association

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:10:10 GMT

Tanzania Banking Association (TBA) Executive Director Tusekelege Joune shares insights on how East Africa member associations are undertaking capacity building as well as benchmarking, so as to facilitate cross-border trade and promote financial inclusion in the region. #CEOChat

CEO Chat With Dr. Habil Olaka CEO, Kenya Bankers Association

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 05:50:46 GMT

Dr Habil Olaka shares insights on Green Investment Opportunities for Households and Enterprises in East Africa.

CEO Chat; Mr. Wilbrod Humphreys Owor, Executive Director, Uganda Bankers Association

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 19:27:09 GMT

Mr. Wilbrod Humphreys Owor Executive Director, Uganda Bankers Association, shares insights on Strategies of Deeping Financial Inclusion in East Africa.

Investing Like an Executive with Samuel Kariuki of Mi Vida Homes

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 09:13:22 GMT

In this third edition of the Kenyan Wall Street's Investing Like an Executive series, we sit down with Samuel Kariuki, the CEO of Mi Vida Homes, to discuss the real estate developer's new Garden City development, the state of the affordable housing industry in Kenya, and concluding with some words of wisdom for young people looking to build a career in real estate.

The Global Peace Index 2023 (GPI 2023)

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 15:25:48 GMT

The Global Peace Index 2023 (GPI 2023) reveals sharp deterioration in peace last year with Sub-Saharan Africa witnessing an increase in levels of terrorism. Over 80,000 people have died in the Russia-Ukraine war which has also disrupted global food supply chain and hypothetical Chinese blockade of Taiwan likely to disrupt complex electronics supply.

The aftermath of Libya conflict, end of war in Syria, and ethnic tensions coupled with the effects of climate change is linked to an increase in the number of terrorism activities in the Sub-Saharan Africa putting the economies of region in danger. In this interview, we talk to Thomas Morgan, associate director of research at the Institute of Economics and Peace about the report and the economic impact of violence on the global economy.

Investing in African Tech: Insights from Nairobi

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 08:58:08 GMT

Investing in African tech startups is rapidly gaining momentum, with more investors recognizing the massive untapped potential in the continent's burgeoning tech ecosystem. Ventures Unknown, an organization whose mission is to build connections to and between emerging tech ecosystems and access to capital, recently made its first trip to Nairobi to explore the African tech ecosystem. We sat down with Ethan Appleby, the founder of Ventures Unknown, to explore some of the key lessons he learned during his visit.

Dr. Ophelia Inez Weeks on the Role Women in Africa Play in Building the Economy

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 20:38:31 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi interviews Dr. Ophelia Inez Weeks, Executive Director and Board Secretary, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (EJS) Presidential Center for Women and Development as they explore the role women in Africa play in building the economy.

The EJS Center aims to amplify the voice of women and girls in all spheres of life by increasing the representation of women in public service leadership roles in Africa.

Through a unique blend of programming, advocacy, archival research, and museum exhibitions, the EJS Center seeks to become a premier institution dedicated to advancing and sustaining women's political and social development on the continent.

The EJS Center (https://www.ejscenter.org) is a partner of the 2022 Angaza Awards happening on 8th June 2022.

Podcast Host: Ms. Nuru Mugambi, Founder Kaleidoscope Consulting

Guest: Dr. Ophelia Inez Weeks, Executive Director and Board Secretary, EJS Presidential Center for Women and Development

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Old Mutual's Tabby Tsengiwe on the Role Women in Africa Play in Building the Economy

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:58:15 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi interviews Tabby Tsengiwe, General Manager of Public Affairs & Communication at Old Mutual Limited as they explore the role women in Africa play in building the economy.

Old Mutual (www.oldmutual.com) is a sponsor of the 2022 Angaza Awards happening on 8th June 2022. In addition to sponsoring the awards, Old Mutual is supporting the Top 10 through mentorship and profile building.

Podcast Host: Ms. Nuru Mugambi, Founder Kaleidoscope Consulting

Guest: Tabby Tsengiwe, General Manager of Public Affairs & Communication at Old Mutual Limited

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Sanlam's Jacqueline Karasha on Global and Pan-African Trends in Insurance

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 08:37:22 GMT

In this episode, Ms Salome Mboya interviews Jacqueline Karasha, Head of Corporate Business, Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd. Kenya as they discuss:

global and Pan-African trends in insurance
what it takes to succeed in the insurance sector

Jacqueline Karasha is a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by Angaza Awards.

When Jacqueline Karasha joined Sanlam Kenya in 2016, she was tasked with turning around the Corporate Business's performance which had been on a steady decline in terms of revenue and profitability. The 2016 Full Year revenue stood at USD 17mn and the company's market position had declined from 1st to 8th. Through effective strategic planning, Jacqueline diversified the firm's distribution channels to include Bancassurance and Digital channels, and re-engaged key intermediaries in the market.

She revamped the client service model to enhance retention and implemented a high performance culture within the team, introducing goal setting, performance management and frequent feedback sessions. As at December 2020, the revenues of the Corporate Business reached USD 35mn, up from USD 22mn in December 2019. The remarkable performance helped cushion the Sanlam Kenya business from the economic shocks that were experienced in the market due to the COVID pandemic.

Podcast Host: Ms. Salome Mboya, Youth Programs Associate, Hisa Inc

Guest: Jacqueline Karasha – Managing Director, Head of Corporate Business, Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd. Kenya

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

World Remit's Sharon Kinyanjui on Global and Pan-African Trends in Cross Border Payments

Sun, 29 May 2022 10:58:52 GMT

In this episode Leah Wamugu interviews Sharon Kinyanjui as they discuss:

global and Pan-African trends in cross border payments
her career in digital payments
and what it takes to succeed as a regional business & technology leader

Sharon Kinyanjui is the first woman to direct WorldRemit's operations across 70 countries, of which 42 countries are in Africa. The region she is responsible for driving the strategic direction of, identifying new markets, and optimizing financial performance is one of the largest contributors to WorldRemit's global revenues and gross profit.

She has been instrumental in leading the charge and being the first International Money Transfer Organization (IMTO) to provide a completely new payout currency (USD pay-out) for customers sending payments to Nigeria.

Sharon serves on the board of five WorldRemit entities in South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya.

Podcast Host: Leah Wamugu, Finance Analyst and Writer, The Kenyan Wallstreet

Guest: Ms Sharon Kinyanjui, Regional Director - EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa), WorldRemit Ltd

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Fluent in Tax - Episode 1 - Implications of the Finance Bill 2022

Sun, 29 May 2022 10:32:50 GMT

Fleunt in Tax is a new show birthed out of a collaboration between Kenyan Wallstreet and Ushuru.co.ke.

In this episode Eric Jackson speaks to John, a tax expert from Ushuru.co.ke as they break down:

implications of the news Finance Bill 2022
how the new taxes will affect individuals and small businesses
the various timelines before the bill becomes and act and is potentially turned into law
what you can do to suggest changes to the bill

Ushuru.co.ke is a boutique tax consultancy firm that helps Kenyans, both in the country and in the diaspora, to understand and file their taxes. If you need help filing your taxes, please visit https://ushuru.co.ke and you will be assisted.

Podcast Host: Eric Jackson, co-founder Kenyan Wallstreet & Hisa

Guest: John, Tax Expert Ushuru.co.ke

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Faida Investment Bank's Rina Hicks on Democratizing Investment as a Financial Inclusion Priority

Wed, 25 May 2022 13:18:27 GMT

In this episode, Ms Marita Obare interviews Rina Hicks as they discuss:

democratizing investment as a financial inclusion priority
the role of financial literacy in growing Africas capital markets
what it takes to succeed as a woman in Investment Banking

Rina Hicks was named a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by the Angaza Awards.

Rina Hicks directs the Corporate Finance Advisory unit at Faida Investment Bank, and serves as the Operations Director responsible for firm-wide strategic planning and processes in Kenya and Rwanda. She has led the firm in carrying out several capital market transactions over the past five years, including cross listings, rights issues, fairness opinions, mergers and acquisitions, take over transactions and general capital raises in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.

She has led the firm's growth, garnering a seven-fold increase in revenues since 2017. Some notable transactions over the past two years under her steer include Nation Media Group's share buyback which was the first ever share buyback in East Africa; I&M Bank Rwanda's rights issue; and RH Bophelo's cross listing on the Rwanda Stock Exchange from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. In 2019, Faida served as the Independent Financial Advisors on the NIC Group PLC and CBA Group Limited merger, the largest merger ever in the country's banking industry.

Podcast Host: Ms. Marita Obare, Co-founder Ngazi, an on-transit advertising platform for small businesses in Kenya

Guest: Rina Hicks, Operations Director, Faida Investment Bank Ltd

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Equity Group's Gakii Mwongera on Global and Pan-African Trends in Cross Border Payments

Mon, 23 May 2022 13:22:52 GMT

In this episode, Ms Nuru Mugambi interviews Gakii Mwongera, Group Head of Internet Banking, Equity Group Holdings as they discuss:

global and Pan-African trends in cross border payments
what it takes to succeed as a regional business & tehcnology leader

Gakii Mwongera is a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by Angaza Awards.

Since joining Equity Group in 2012, Gakii Mwongera has directed the bank's digital channel portfolio which has witnessed tremendous growth in transaction volumes, from USD 9 million in 2012 to over USD 10 billion in 2021.

She has championed the training of more than 6,000 bank employees on features and benefits of digital transaction banking platforms, thus improving product uptake and achieving a return on digital channel investment within two and a half years – two years ahead of the projected date.

Recently following Equity Group's acquisition of Banque Commerciale du Congo, she managed the bank's successful migration and digitization in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has seen Equity Bank DRC become the second best-performing subsidiary in internet banking in less than a year.

Podcast Host: Ms. Nuru Mugambi, Founder Kaleidoscope Consulting

Guest: Gakii Mwongera, Group Head of Internet Banking, Equity Group Holdings

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

AFDB's Dr. Millicent Omukaga on Africa's Untapped She Economy

Fri, 20 May 2022 08:48:52 GMT

In this episode, Ms Marita Obare interviews Millicent Omukaga, Advisor to the AFDB President on Women Empowerment and Affirmative Finance as they discuss:

Africa's untapped She Economy
case studies of how financial sector (including AfDB programs) has helped unlock value for women on the continent
learnings from her experience

Dr. Millicent Omukaga is a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by Angaza Awards.

Dr. Millicent Omukaga is a policy advisor in development programming and finance with expertise in investment projects and portfolio management and market development for rural and agricultural communities across Africa.

In her current position at African Development Bank (AfDB), she guides on financial inclusion through policy engagements at corporate and country levels, and provides technical assistance through access to finance and markets programmes targeting women entrepreneurs across the Continent.

Some of her recent achievements include contribution to the establishment of the Bank's 10-year Gender Equality Trust Fund, which is the first thematic fund on gender in the Bank Group's history; $250M Risk Share Mechanism; and $25m Technical Assistance project.

Podcast Host: Ms. Marita Obare, Co-founder Ngazi, an on-transit advertising platform for small businesses in Kenya.

Guest: Dr. Millicent Omukaga - Office of the President Advisor – Women Empowerment and Affirmative Finance, African Development Bank Group, Côte d'Ivoire

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa on 2022 Earnings, Ethiopia, M-PESA and the Future

Thu, 19 May 2022 08:52:23 GMT

In this episode, we sit with Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa to discuss the following sub-themes:

2022 full-year earnings
Progress of Safaricom Ethiopia
Network Partnership Deal with Ethio Telecom
M-PESA in Ethiopia
Views on M-PESA Hitting close to $1 Billion in Revenues, Separating it from Telco
The future of Safaricom from a Mergers and Acquisitions perspective

Podcast Host: Erick Asuma, Co-Founder and CEO, Hisa

Guest: Peter Ndegwa, CEO and Board Member of Safaricom

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Rahel Musyoki on Pan-African Trends in Pay As You Go Health Insurance

Mon, 16 May 2022 12:11:41 GMT

In this episode, Ms Marita Obare interviews Rahel Musyoki as they discuss:

Pan-African trends in pay as you go health insurance
recent innovations in health fintech
what it takes to succeed in fintech space/what every fintech entrepreneur should know.

Rahel Musyoki was named a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by the Angaza Awards.

Rahel Musyoki was responsible for the growth of CarePay's revenue and portfolio through its disruptive health e-payments technology solution dubbed M-TIBA. By leveraging partnerships with private and public sector organizations, as well as, donors and philanthropic organizations, Rahel has led the company in co-creating sustainable solutions that enable citizens in vulnerable and marginalized communities to have access to affordable healthcare services and financing across a wide network of medical service providers. Her unit has built a network of 1,000 plus healthcare facilities with negotiated costs where individuals with low incomes and the working poor, as well as their families, can access and receive quality healthcare.

Podcast Host: Ms. Marita Obare, Co-founder Ngazi, an on-transit advertising platform for small businesses in Kenya.

Guest: Rahel Musyoki, healthcare consultant, formerly M-TIBA

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Njeri Jomo Explores Global and Pan-African Trends in Insurance & What it Takes to Succeed

Wed, 11 May 2022 19:06:49 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi interviews Njeri Jomo, General Manager - Retail Business Development, Britam Group as they explore the global and pan-africana trends in insurance and what it takes to succeed.

Njeri Jomo was named a 2022 Top Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance by Angaza Awards. She is General Manager of Britam Group's retail and commercial segments. She leads the insurance agency's business development strategy and is also responsible for the distribution strategy and channel management of Britam's Financial Advisory unit.

Podcast Host: Ms. Nuru Mugambi, Founder Kaleidoscope Consulting

Guest: Ms Njeri Jomo, GM Retail Business Group, Britam

Production: Rawlins Hamisi

Marjorie Mayida on Democratising Investments as a Financial Inclusion Priority

Fri, 06 May 2022 07:21:15 GMT

In this episode, we sit with Marjorie Mayida, Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer, Old Mutual Investment Group Zimbabwe and one of the 2022 Top 10 Woman to Watch in Banking and Finance.

The episode explores the following sub themes:

Overview of Zimbabwe Economy
Developments in Banking Sector
Democratizing Investment as a financial inclusion priority
Role of financial literacy in growing Africas capital markets
What it takes to succeed in a Chief Investment Officer role & in banking

This episode features:

Marjorie Mayida – Jaggwe – Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer, Old Mutual Investment Group Zimbabwe

Ms Nuru Mugambi – Founder, Kaleidoscope Consultants (https://www.kscopeafrica.com)

My Chat With a Bank CEO - Rafiki Microfinance Bank CEO Joseph Njuguna

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 06:53:15 GMT

The third session of Kenya Banker's my chat with a bank CEO online event was hosted by Joseph Njuguna, CEO of Rafiki Microfinance Bank.

Joseph Njuguna shares insights on how intellectual property can be used under the Moveable Property Registry to access credit. On the back of the rapid growth of the creative industry and ICT sector in Kenya, the need to accommodate Intellectual Property as collateral has expanded. The ICT sector has also expanded, extending Intellectual Property items that can be used as collateral.

This edition of my Chat with a Bank CEO, therefore, aims to shed light on ways by which Intellectual Property—particularly developed by the youth— can be leveraged to facilitate access to credit.

My Chat With a Bank CEO - DIB Bank Kenya CEO Peter Makau

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 07:21:15 GMT

Peter Makau, the CEO of DIB Bank Kenya hosted the second session of my chat with a bank CEO online event by Kenya Bankers Association.

Islamic finance was introduced in Kenya more than a decade ago following the introduction of Sharia-Compliant banking in the country. Since its inception the banking model has grown rapidly, making Kenya a leading regional market for Islamic banking. Various banks have entered the market, leveraging on investment opportunities presented by the financing option.

Peter Makau shares insights on how Kenya is one of the countries that have the largest potential for growth of Islamic banking and debt securities (sukuk).

Currently, there are three fully-fledged Islamic banks in Kenya. To keep pace with demand, some banks have set up an Islamic banking desk, a specialised operational entity.

My Chat With a Bank CEO - Bank of Africa (K) Managing Director Ronald Marambii

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 07:30:35 GMT

Ronald Marambii CEO Bank of Africa hosted the first session of the quarterly "My chat with a Bank CEO" online events by the Kenya Bankers Association. In this episode, Ronald explores opportunities moveable assets present in facilitating further access to credit, particularly for SMEs.

The CEO says that the MPSR sought to facilitate the use of the moveable property as security by both individuals and corporates, introducing new types of collateral that can be used to secure credit.

In summary, the MPSR Act operates as a law governing secured transactions between a creditor and a lender where, in return for a loan advanced, the borrower gives Moveable property as security or collateral.

KCB's Called Off Acquisition, Centum's Results and Tesla Concerns Rocking US Markets

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:41:04 GMT

Last week, Centum released fair results. However, investors are still wary of Kenya's real estate sector especially after COVID-19 ravaged footfall in malls. KCB called off the acquisition of Tanzania's BancABC, citing regulatory headwinds and Tesla's valuation and volatility in US markets is getting investors concerned. Locally, the NASI fell by 2.88% closing the week at 160.03 bp. The NSE 25 fell by 3.66% closing the week at 3533.74 bp whereas the NSE 20 fell 2.49% to end the week at 1839.46 bp showing a decline in the mood of the market. Equity turnover fell by 40.2% closing the week at Ksh 3.5 billion worth of shares traded down from 5.96 billion in the previous week. Volumes in the bonds fell by 50.14% with about 9.4 billion worth of bonds traded compared to 18.96 the previous week. The primary auction in the bonds market by CBK could have sparked the decline in both the equity and the bonds market. Safaricom, Equity Group, and KCB, stocks which account for most of the market activity on the NSE for the week, declined by 2.5%, 6.16% and 9.5% closing at Ksh 37.50, Ksh 41.15 and Ksh 46.60 respectively. In global markets, the S&P 500 continued to take a drop of more than 1% for the fifth consecutive week. The index fell 1.2% closing the week at 4538.43 bp. The Dow fell by 0.9% closing the week at 34580 bp while the Nasdaq was down 2.6% to end the week at 15085.47 bp.

Tune in to learn how the fears of Tesla's volatility and the Fed's direction towards tapering is affecting US markets, how CBK's recent auction is sparking a decline in local bond and equity markets and some of the things to look out for in Centum's results and future.

Trade US stocks from Kenyan via the Hisa App on Android or iOS. Subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast on spotify wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa
Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli.

How Markets are Reacting to Omnicron, Bloodbath at the NSE and The Last Stretch of Banking Sector Results

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 06:39:44 GMT

Last week, Markets were shaken following the discovery of Omnicron by South African Scientists, evident in Dow's Dip by 800 bp on Friday, one of the highest since the pandemic began. The Dow dipped by 2.01% for the week, whereas the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 fell by 3.5% and 2.2% respectively. Locally, the NASI shed 3.66 basis points settling at 164.77 bp while the NSE 20 shed 7.3 bp closing the week at 1886.35 bp. We also recorded mixed results from I&M, Stanbic, DTB and HF.

Tune in to learn how Omnicron is pushing investors to safer bets, why Safaricom's decline could have been led to lower indices, and how small-cap stocks took the crown last week on the NSE.

Watch out for the debut of trading on the Hisa App on Android or iOS. Subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa
Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli.

The KQ/SAA Partnership, The Auditor's Qualified Opinion on KenGen and The Curious Case of Uber Delivering Cannabis

Sat, 27 Nov 2021 10:56:20 GMT

In this episode, we discuss the partnership between Kenya Airways and South Africa Airlines, and what it means for both parties, share investor concerns on Kengen, and touch on Uber eats venture into creating and curing munchies.
Listen to this episode to understand why the KQ/SAA partnership might not fly, hear KenGen response to the Auditor's qualified opinion and some things that investors could still be worried about, and learn why Uber Eats still faces the smoke of illegal supply in Canada's marijuana market.

Binge on all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa
Hamisi Rawlins - Cofounder, Culture Capture

Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Building Affordable Agricultural Insurance Using Blockchain and Smart Contracts

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 10:54:50 GMT

In this episode, we talk to Jan and Michiel from Etherisc on the use case of blockchain in agricultural insurance. We discuss the use cases and benefits and use cases of parametric insurance and smart contracts in the agricultural insurance in East Africa such as bridging affordability and speeding payouts. Listen to this podcast to learn how parametric insurance could unlock inclusive insurance for farmers, the upside of automating insurance contracts and potential use cases of blockchain in agriculture.

Binge on all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Jan Stockhausen - Chief Legal Architect, Etherisc
Michiel Berende - Chief Inclusive Officer, Etherisc

Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Day Trading Debut at the NSE, KCB& Co-Op Results, and BABA Q2 Numbers

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 12:27:17 GMT

Last week, market indices were on the red, KCB, Cooperative Bank, and Alibaba reported their earnings and investors on the NSE held their breath for November 22, the debut of day trading at the NSE. Tune in to catch up on the debut of Day trading at the NSE, what ailed the markets last week, and why Alibaba missed analysts' revenue expectations.

Binge to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

The AfCFTA Intra African Business Opportunity

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:12:43 GMT

In this episode, we talk to Pramod Bagalwadi, CEO DHL Global Forwarding for Sub Saharan Africa on how the African Free Continental Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) will boost intra African trade. We break down how receptive national borders under the AfCFTA could benefit African MSMEs through freer movement of people, goods, and resources, allowing them to target the entirety of the 1.2 billion population. We also talk about the impediments to the agreement such as varying divestment in infrastructure among member countries and conflicting national interests and how they could shape the success of the agreement.

Tune in to learn:

How Covid-19 pushed innovation in the logistics space.
How optimizing member country regulations such as tax policies could help more SMEs reach customers regionally.
How improvements of infrastructure will boost trade between Africa and the world by bringing multinationals closer to their consumers.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Pramod Bagalwadi - CEO, - DHL Global Forwarding, Sub Saharan Africa
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer/Host, Hisa and The Kenyan Wallstreet
Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Gender Representation as a Core Driver of Sustainable African Capital Markets

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 02:59:16 GMT

In this podcast, we talk to Mutomboi Mundia, Director, Market Supervision and Development at the SEC in Zambia on the role of equality and gender representation in developing sustainable African capital markets, in the case of Zambia. Join us as we tackle issues that are key to boosting both participation and representation of women in African capital markets such as creating a pipeline of deserving women for board positions, leveraging their ability to multitask and multiskill, and setting individual goals that contribute to the bigger communal agenda. Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.
This episode features:
Mutomboi Mundia - Director, Market Supervision and Development at the SEC in Zambia
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer/Host, Hisa and The Kenyan Wallstreet
Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Breaking Down the MTN Uganda IPO with CEO Wim Vanhelleputte

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 07:06:38 GMT

23 Years and 15 million subscribers later, MTN Uganda is IPOing on the Uganda Securities Exchange. Join Eric Jackson and Wim Vanhelleputte as they break down the IPO, detailing the incentives, the opportunities, the risk factors and the onboarding process for investors.

Listen to this podcast now to learn why the Telco operator chose to list now, how MTN is planning to rope retail investors through the m-IPO platform and why low internet penetration and mobile money are key of focus for MTN Uganda's radar.

Highlights:

MTN Uganda is offering 20% of its total 96% shareholding to the public. This is 4.47 billion ordinary shares at UGX 200 per offer share.
The offer opened on 11 October 2021 and closes on 22 November 2021. Trading will start on 6 December 2021.
MTN is offering prospective East Africa investors a 5% free share incentive, and an additional 5% for Ugandan investors who participate in the IPO via the m-IPO platform.
The telco has made a commitment to maintaining the 60% dividend payout ratio post-listing.
MTN Uganda is taking the low internet penetration opportunity through demand-driven 4G deployment, device financing and leveraging on-demand for localized digital content.
The company sees the m-IPO process as key to addressing liquidity concerns on the USE through creating trading opportunities in the secondary market.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Eric Jackson - Co-founder and CTO, Hisa
Wim Vanhelleputte - CEO, MTN Uganda
Produced by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Suspended Negative CRB Listing, Safaricom and Equity Group Earnings and Curious Case of the Tesla Shares Dip

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 04:33:21 GMT

In this episode we discuss Central Bank of Kenya's Directive to suspend the listing of negative information of borrowers with loans under Ksh 5 million that were previously performing but went under from 1 October 2021, the suspension of clearance certificates as a requirement for job application, the shining results of Safaricom and Equity Group and the mechanics behind Elon's share sale and the following dip.

Tune in now to learn why suspending CRB listing and adopting cost based lending could democratize access to credit and increase its cost for some, how suspending clearance documents is a respite for job seekers that would benefit even more from zero pricing of background check documents, the gaps in results of the giants, and why the Twitter poll did not in fact influence Elon's decision to sell some of his Tesla Shares.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Host and Producer, Kenyan Wallstreet/Hisa

Produced and Directed by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Leveraging Partnerships, Value Creation and Impact Focus Investment Process in Building Valuable Africa Businesses

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:43:07 GMT

In this episode, we host Takudzwa Mutasa, a partner at DPI to discuss the opportunity for investment in Africa, the role of impact and sustainability in building valuable businesses and exit options for investors in the continent.

Join us as we break down the importance of partnership, value creation expertise, and impact-focused investment processes in driving value creation in investments and improving portfolio businesses in Africa. Taku also touches on the key trends that make Africa a very attractive investment destination: a young population and a growing workforce, strong demographics, the rapid wave of urbanization, technology and digital transformation and natural resource endowment of the continent.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:

Takudzwa Mutasa - Partner, Development Partners International
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host, Kenyan Wallstreet and Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Developments in Safaricom's Entry Into Ethiopia

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:42:15 GMT

In this episode, Eric Asuma talks to Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa and CFO Dilip Pal on the developments in Ethiopia following the state of emergency, the shifting conflict and delays in the US DFC $500 million loan.

Tune in to understand why Safaricom is still optimistic about launching in Ethiopia in mid-2022 despite the shifting conflict, its Capex commitment so far, and its investment in the market for the short and mid-term.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:

Peter Ndegwa - CEO, Safaricom

Dilip Pal - CFO, Safaricom

Eric Asuma - CEO, Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Weekly Markets Update | Jump in Equity's Q3 Profit, Safaricom's Decline and Uber's First Ever EBITDA Adjusted Profit

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 10:04:36 GMT

Last week, the Safaricom stock took a beating, declining by 6.07% to Ksh 40.20 following worsening conditions in Ethiopia and US DFC's delay in disbursing the $500million to finance its Ethiopia entry. Equity Group reported an 85% jump in Q3 profit before tax to Ksh 36.6 Billion from Ksh 19.7 billion in Q3 2020. Globally, Uber reported its first-ever EBITDA adjusted profit of $8 million.

Listen to this episode to find out what's dragging Safaricom's share price, the details behind Equity's Profit jump and why BK Group is trailing, despite the positive Q3 results.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa
Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Tightening Rules for Real Estate Collateral, The Safaricom Dominance Row and the Curious Case of The Squid Game Crypto Scam

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 16:32:42 GMT

In this weekly episode of We Are Curious, we discuss banks' decision to request additional security in case the value of collateral like land depreciates, explore the push to declare Safaricom as a dominant player in Kenya's Telco space, and take notes from the plunge of the Squid Game Crypto.

Get all your podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Host and Producer, The Kenyan Wallstreet
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Special appearances:
Hamisi Rawlins
Enock Aguera

Weekly Markets Update 40| Underwhelming Kengen Results, Microsoft as the Most Valuable Company, and Apple's Results

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:17:25 GMT

Last week, Kengen reported a 94.6% decline in net profit to Ksh 1.2 billion following higher tax expenses. Revenue was up 4% to Ksh 4.5 billion attributed to geothermal, hydro and diversification projects. Kenya Power bounced back to profitability reporting a Ksh 1.5 billion net profit, a 216% jump in pretax profit and 17% dip in operating expenses. Apple results were slightly underwhelming following supply chains woes, and now Microsoft is the most valuable company on earth by market cap.
Listen to this episode to find out what could happen to Kenya Power's stock after the positive results, and how changes in payments for developers and supply chain woes are affecting apple.

Tune in to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa
Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Building a Business Case for Agriculture in Africa with Khula CEO Karidas Tshintsholo

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:49:11 GMT

In this episode, Eric Jackson talks to Khula Co-founder and CEO Karidas Tshintsholo on making a business case for agriculture in Africa through availing inputs that allow subsistence farmers to try commercial agriculture, building a marketplace that connects farmers to bulk buyers and establishing platforms for farmers to raise funds for their operations. This episode also covers the net positive effect of COVID-19 in agriculture and agritech, and why telling African startup stories benefits Africa's entrepreneurship.

Listen to all our podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:
Karidas Tshintsholo - Co-founder and CEO, Khula
Eric Jackson - Co-founder, Hisa
Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli.

We Are Curious 33| Day Trading at the NSE, Cash Transaction Reporting Limits, DHL Closing eShop and the Curious Case of Meta

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 08:59:35 GMT

Last week, the NSE announced that it will introduce day trading in November, allowing investors to trade on a security multiple times a day. The president, upon lifting the curfew, ordered the National Treasury to raise the threshold for cash transaction reporting to favour MSMEs. Regionally, DHL announced that it is closing its e-commerce site eShop and Facebook is now Meta.
Listen to this episode to understand why day trading, a great initiative to deepen the markets, still needs support infrastructures like lower fees to trigger retail activity, why removing barriers to digital transactions would a better tool to fight money laundering and terrorism finance than large cash transaction reporting requirements, and why Facebook's new name Meta isn't enough matte to cover up its privacy violations.

Get all your podcasts directly through the Hisa App on Android or iOS, or subscribe to the Kenyan Wallstreet podcast wherever you listen from.

This episode features:

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Host and Producer, The Kenyan Wallstreet
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Deepening Kenya's Domestic Markets Through Improving Capacity of Retail Investors

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:09:10 GMT

In this episode, we talk to Anthony Kirui on the status of Kenya's capital markets, specifically looking at improving access for retail investors, heading against foreign outflows and moving away from safe bets like government securities. This episode follows the release of the 2021 Africa Financial Markets Index, where Kenya's market attractiveness fell to 11th position in Africa, scoring especially poorly in its local investor capacity. We explore possible remedies such as breaking barriers for retail investors, adoption of global master agreements, and how day trading and margin trading could help private individuals flourish in the domestic markets.

Access finance podcasts and the latest news on markets directly through the Hisa App available on Google Playstore and the Apple Store.

This episode features:
Anthony Kirui - Director, Head of Global Markets, Kenya and Africa Regional Operations at Absa Bank Kenya PLC
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Journalist/Podcast Host, The Kenyan Wallstreet and Hisa

Weekly Markets Update 38| New Appointments at HF Group, Dips in NSE Indices and Jittery Global Tech Stocks

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:17:44 GMT

Last Week, HF Group announced the appointment of Olive Mugenda, a known reformist and chairperson at the Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital. Benchmark indices ended the week lower as major stocks on the exchange went red, including Safaricom. However, the overall market activity was high. Equity turnover was up 53.2% to Ksh 3.2 billion traded while volume rose by 33.4% with 73.2 million shares traded. NBV's YTD performance has dipped from top position to 10th, pointing to its continuing high volatility.

Globally, tech stocks were jittery. Shares of Twitter, Alphabet, Microsoft and Snapchat were all down. Snap Inc, the company behind Snapchat released positive results but failed to meet analyst expectations. Revenue was up by 57% to $1.7 billion, a shortfall of 93 million dollars from what analysts expected, which is why the stock plummeted on Thursday and Friday, closing the week at $55 after shedding 27%. Facebook will be releasing its results today.

Listen to this podcast to understand what happened in local markets last week, and what to expect from global tech stocks following changes in Apple's privacy policy that is spelling doom giants like Snap and Facebook.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.
This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

The Role of Women in Driving Macroeconomic Growth in Africa

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 06:11:29 GMT

In this episode, we sit with Joanita Lunkuse - Jaggwe to discuss the role of women in spearheading macroeconomic growth in Africa through taking leadership roles in sectors like Finance and Agriculture, and how increasing access to opportunities and proper succession planning could be the bridge to tapping into the benefits of having women in top leadership.

Apply for an opportunity to be recognised among Top Women in Africa in Banking, Co-Operatives and SACCOs, Development Finance institutions, Fintech, Fund Management and Investment Banking, Insurance, Microfinance, Public Sector Finance and Private Equity at https://www.angazaawards.com/ Applications close on October 31.

This episode features:

Joanita Lunkuse - Jaggwe - Expert Financing, Office of the Prime Minister, Uganda

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host, The Kenyan Wallstreet Podcast

Embedding Gender Equality in Policy in Capital Markets

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:34:24 GMT

In this episode, Mwakaneno chats with Luke Ombara, Director Policy and Market Development at the Capital Market Authority Kenya on the representation and participation of women in Kenya compared to other African markets. We discuss the role of policies like the corporate governance code and the 2/3 gender rule in bridging gender parity on boards and platforms for mentorship in grooming the next generation of women to join leadership boards of listed companies.
Apply for an opportunity to be recognised among Top Women in Africa in Banking, Co-Operatives and SACCOs, Development Finance institutions, Fintech, Fund Management and Investment Banking, Insurance, Microfinance, Public Sector Finance and Private Equity at https://www.angazaawards.com/
Applications close on October 31.

Weekly Markets Update 37| Investor Uncertainty Over Inflation, DTB, Global Oil Prices, and the Kenya Power & KQ Bailout

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:16:37 GMT

Last week, we saw investor uncertainty across global markets, following the rise of inflation across the globe that could last for long. On the NSE, the NASI was up 3.04 points, the NSE 25 was 32.37 basis points. The NSE 20 share index dropped 1.13%.

Highlights:

Limuru Tea was the top gainer last week, up 10% to Ksh 330 shillings, following an earlier announcement by Unilever to move their shareholding.
The volume of shares was down 31.2%, closing the week at 54.8 million shares traded. Turnover for the week also fell to Ksh 2.09 billion compared to Ksh 2.88 billion traded a week earlier.
Top companies trading on the NSE accounted for 94% of market activity.
Safaricom was up closing at the week at Ksh 43.10 up from Ksh 41.65 at the opening of the week.
DTB announced that it hopes its ROE would go back to 13% or higher, acknowledging the recent actions by investors, and the complaints in dividend non-payment.
NBV has completed its acquisitions of Delta International's 4 businesses. The acquired companies have a valuation of about Ksh 3 billion. It's a curious case of how the subsidiaries will impact NBV's performance on the exchange.
Oil prices continue to rise, with Brent hitting $85 and WTI hitting $83 on Monday. This is good news for investors who went long on oil. However, it could further worsen ongoing inflation.
Last week, the Dow Jones was up 1.3%, S&P 500 and the Nasdaq were also up 1.3%. YTD, the Dow Jones is 15.3%, S&P is up 19% while the Nasdaq is up 15.5%.
Kenya Power, KQ bailout require intensive audits to make sure the resources are utilized correctly, and that the revenue holes, including integrity issues, are plugged.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.
This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Building Affordable and Resilient Housing in Africa

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:27:55 GMT

In this episode, Maurice Makoloo, Senior Director-Africa Hub at the Habitat of Humanity discusses what it takes to build resilient housing in Africa, while still following the tenets of affordability and maintaining cultural sensitivity. Mwakaneno and Maurice break down the multifaceted roles which houses play, from serving as educational centres, workstations and health centres, and how these functions shape the procurement process. Finally, we close the episode discussing tenure security, its pivotal role in supporting access to housing in Africa.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:
Maurice Makoloo - Senior Director - Africa Hub at the Habitat for Humanity
Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Producer and Podcast Host, Hisa

We Are Curious 32| The High Court Case Against Uber and the Curious Case of the Kenya-Somalia ICJ Ruling

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 06:04:08 GMT

This week, the high court ruled that there is an intricate link between Uber BV and Uber Kenya, a decision that could allow uber drivers in Kenya to sue both companies for fare reductions on the platform. Join Mwakaneno and Nicole as they travel back to 2016, the genesis of the court case against uber, to break down the different arguments in the case and what it could mean for drivers and riders. We also talk to Rimah Mogiri about the events around the Kenya-Somalia maritime, Kenya's elusiveness, the possible economic impact of the ruling, and what next after the ICJ.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:

Nicole Omaya - Community Manager, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Producer and Podcast Host, Hisa

Rimah Mogiri - Partner, Sisule and Advocates.

Interview with Uganda and Kenya Celo Leads

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 15:41:23 GMT

In partnership with BitcoinKe, we recently interviewed Umar Bukenya, Uganda Ecosystem lead at cLabs and Daniel Kimotho, Kenya Ecosystem Lead at cLabs, a member of the Alliance for Prosperity and part of the community working on Celo. cLabs has built an open, decentralized platform, designed to support stable coins and tokenized assets, which are optimized for mobile phones.

In the interview, we asked Daniel and Umar about their thoughts on the future of cryptocurrency, the state of the crypto market and Celo's ongoing and upcoming plans in Africa.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:

Daniel Kimotho - Kenya Ecosystem Lead, cLabs

Eric Asuma - CEO, Kenyan Wallstreet

David Gitonga - Founder, BitcoinKe

Umar Bukenya - Uganda Ecosystem Lead, cLabs

We Are Curious 31| Of a Sky High 6.91% Inflation, the Petroleum Levy, TikTok's NFT and the Curious Case of the eNaira

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 09:56:09 GMT

This week, we saw Kenya's monthly inflation skyrocket to a 19 month high of 6.91% largely driven by higher fuel costs and fuel, grew ecstatic of the Presidential directive for lower electricity tariffs, watched legislators circle the unpopular petroleum levy and held our breaths for Nigeria's eNaira.

Listen to this episode to find out what's driving higher inflation, how our hopes for lower electricity tariffs died in Presidential fine print, and why we need the Petroleum Levy. In this podcast, you will also hear why Nigeria is launching a CBDC, after a long crypto ban and what to expect from TikTok NFT.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Nicole Omaya - Community Manager, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Producer and Podcast Host, Hisa

How Gender Sensitive Policies Could Boost Gender Parity in African Finance

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 10:29:49 GMT

In this episode, Catherine Musakali breaks down the role of company policy in creating inclusive workspaces and nurturing spaces for women to rise to board levels. Catherine and Mwakaneno discuss how gender-sensitive policies like job share, and telecommuting allow women to grow their careers while still addressing other responsibilities in their lives, and how mentorship helps grow the female talent at an individual level.

Apply for an opportunity to be recognised among Top Women in Africa in Banking, Co-Operatives and SACCOs, Development Finance institutions, Fintech, Fund Management and Investment Banking, Insurance, Microfinance, Public Sector Finance and Private Equity at https://www.angazaawards.com/

This episode features:

Catherine Musakali - Founder and Chairperson of the Women on Boards Network

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host at Hisa

Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Weekly Markets Update 36| Impact of Evergrande's Fall, Nike and Vietnam Closures, a Dip in NSE Giants and the Crypto Ban in China

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 09:43:39 GMT

Last week, we watched Asia come to the reality of Evergrande's fall, which is dragging Asian markets. In the US, investors grapple with anticipation as the US Central Bank Tapering process approaches its end mid next year, and Nike takes a blow from Vietnam's shutdown. Locally, NSE giants bowed down slightly, and the indices went blood red.
Listen to this episode to learn how Asia is fairing after Evergrande defaulted its payments to offshore investors, why Nike cut its revenue forecasts as Vietnam and Indonesian closures affect supply, and how a dip in the giant stocks on the NSE is affecting the overall performance of the exchange.

Highlights:

The impact of the current financial crisis is slowly biting China and Asia after Evergrande defaulted on payments for offshore investors, estimated at $83 billion in interest payments. Evergrande's YTD performance is down 83%.
Global markets closed on a positive edge. The Dow Jones was up 0.6% at 34.798 points, while the S&P 500 rose 0.05% closing at 4455 points. The Nasdaq was flat 0.001% ending the week at 15.048 basis points.
Nike is bracing for shortages and trims revenue forecast as Vietnam shutdowns, costing the company 10 weeks of production.
Safaricom, Equity, EABL, and KCB took a dip on the NSE. The NSE All-share index (NASI) decreased by 2.7% to close the week at 177.81 points from last week's 182.75 points. Similarly, the NSE25 and the NSE20 share indices were similarly down by 2.41% and 1.05%, respectively.
Ghana's benchmark index fell 4.1% last week. Similarly, Egypt fell, eroding its YTD gains.

Listen to previous episodes of the Weekly Markets Update on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli.

Growing Women as Key Business Resources in African Finance Space with Hedwige Nuyens

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 10:53:53 GMT

In 2017, the World Economic Forum noted that female talent remains one of the most underutilized business resource. In this podcast, Nuru Mugambi and Hedwige Nuyens explore whether and how much that has changed in the past 4 years in the role women play in the financial service sector. The duo recap Hedwige's non-traditional path to becoming the Managing Director at the International Banking Federation, reflecting on the role of support, mentorship, collaboration, role of recognition and having an impact as key to helping more women rise in the African Finance Space. Nuru and Hedwige also touch on some of the lessons Europe can learn from Africa in mobile money, and analyse how the successes of women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-general of the World Trade Organization could inspire African women to show up purposefully and embrace diversity.

This episode features:

Nuru Mugambi - Director of Public Affairs at Kenya Bankers Association
Hedwige Nuyens - Managing Director at International Banking Federation

Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli, Podcast Producer and Host at Hisa.

How Digital HR Solutions are Changing HR in East Africa With WorkPay CEO Paul Kimani

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 09:17:50 GMT

In this episode, Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Paul Kimani about his experience building a Digital HR solution, the hard questions that helped the company find product-market fit, and how the startup faced off with legacy systems. We then break down how digital HR systems are solving everyday problems like payments, and how they could cut wastages like ghost workers and inefficiencies of cash payment systems endemic in the informal sector. Finally, we discuss how COVID-19 is shaping the HR space, opening up cross-border hiring, and changing how managers engage teams as they work from home.

Listen to this and other episodes directly through the Hisa App, available on the App Store and the Google Playstore or stream via podcast.kenyanwallstreet.com or any major podcast platform.

This episode features:

Paul Kimani - Founder and CEO, WorkPay

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa.

Weekly Markets Update 35| Higher NSE Turnovers, Mixed US Markets, and Evergrande's Spreading Woes Across Asia

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:56:38 GMT

Last week, Equity turnover rose 24.6% to Ksh 2.51 billion despite a 1% decline in the top five companies on the exchange. Safaricom accounted for Ksh 1.4 billion traded, whereas the top five counters accounted for 89.62% of the activity on the market. Listen to this podcast to understand how the NSE faired last week, African markets to watch, and how Evergrande's downfall could affect a series of Asian markets.

Highlights:

Co-op Bank recorded a decline in activity from 3.1% of the total market activity in the previous week to 2.7% last week.
Longhorn Publishers recorded low activity on the exchange despite bouncing back profitability, reporting a profit of Ksh 7.48 million in profit for 2021 H1.
The All-share index was up 1.45%
The NSE 25 is back to 4000 basis points, standing 4015.08 basis points at the end of last week, signalling a lot of positive activity.
The 20 share index was down 0.1% closing at 2061.45 basis points.
Regionally, Ghana has led SSA in YTD performance, topping the chart at +43.3%. Zambia is up +21.3%. while the NSE is third at +20%.
Evergrande mentioned last week that it will not be able to repay its dollar-denominated debts, as their real estate wing takes a hit. The effects of the group's downfall are likely to have a ripple effect in other markets in Asia like South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.
the S&P 500 was down 0.6% week on week while its YTD performance was up 18%. The Nasdaq was up 16.7% YTD and down 0.5% week on week. The Dow was down 0.1% week on week and up 13% YTD.

Listen to previous episodes of the Weekly Markets Breakdown on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli.

The Innovators Ep 1 | Building One of Kenya's First Ventilator

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 07:03:28 GMT

On March 12, 2020, the Ministry of Health confirmed Kenya's first case of COVID-19, triggering a series of lockdowns orders, a curfew and an unforeseen strain on the country's healthcare system. In April, a team of 15 students from Kenyatta University took up the challenge to build one of the country's first locally-made ventilators, promising an MVP in 7 days. Listen to our debut episode of The Innovators, to learn how the team of engineering and medical students raced against time to deliver an MVP, marshalled resources and networks to win regulatory approval for a market-ready product, impress manufacturers, both local and globally with a ventilator that costs a mere fraction of global ventilator prices, and what they want to build next. Listen to all our podcasts exclusively on Hisa App available on the Appstore and Google Playstore. This episode features: Fidel Makatia - CEO, AFECS Cynthia Thuo - COO, AFECS Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist and Podcast Host, Hisa Podcast Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Making it Possible for Women to Occupy Board Seats in Corporate Africa with Maxwell Pirikisi

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 10:05:38 GMT

While Africa has made giant steps towards gender parity in leadership boards in companies, there are still gaping differences in representation across subregions and sectors. Join Mwakaneno Gakweli and Maxwell Pirikisi as they break down the inequalities in women representation on boards across the continent, the hurdles to achieving gender equality globally, and the role of awareness campaigns and awards like the Angaza Awards in bridging the gender gap in corporate Africa.

Submit your application now on www.angazaawards.com to be recognized among Top Women in Africa in Banking, Co-Operatives, Development Finance Institutions, Insurance, and Private Equity.

This episode features:

Maxwell Pirikisi - Director, South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SACCI); President: South Africa-Nigeria Business Chamber (SA-NBC)

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa.

We Are Curious EP 30| Of Safaricom's Smart Meters for Kenya Power, Commercially Viable Turkana Oil, and the Curious Case of WhatsApp Business Directory

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 07:50:55 GMT

Last week, Safaricom proposed smart meters for Kenya Power at a rather skewed revenue split, Tullow Oil confirmed just how much oil is commercially viable in Turkana at higher costs, US announced sanctions over the conflict in Tigray and Zuckerberg announced yellow pages like features for businesses on WhatsApp.

In the latest episode of We Are Curious, we put to test Safaricom's proposition for smart meters, and whether Kenya Power is likely to accept the 75%/25% revenue sharing split favouring Safaricom. We also ask important questions with regards to the viability of the oil project in Turkana, given only 585 million barrels out of the total 2.85 million barrels is commercially viable (at least at the moment), at a higher cost. We close the episode looking at what's happening in global markets, with the US issuing sanctions against parties involved in the Tigray war, and Zuckerberg launching a directory-like feature for small businesses on WhatsApp.

Listen to all our podcasts directly on the Hisa App available on the App Store and Google Playstore.

This episode features:
Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Nicole Omaya - Community Manager, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Producer and Podcast Host, Hisa

Weekly Markets Update 34| Scangroup, Theranos, and Global Indices on Red

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 10:29:41 GMT

Last week, the trial of Theranos Founder Elizabeth Holmes kicked off, a 13-week long journey to test her innocence against 10 counts of wire fraud and two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Locally Scangroup is soaring, despite a 22% dip in revenue and a Ksh 1.732 Billion loss in 2020. US stock indices were bloody red. Listen to this episode to find out why investors are buying ScanGroup, lessons to learn from investors who bled after Theranos' failed tests, and why Global indices fell last week.

Binge on all our podcasts on markets, tech, and policy on the Hisa App available on the Google Playstore and the Apple Apple Appstore.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa.

We Are Curious EP 29| Of the KAA Bailout Request, KNBS Job Loss Data, Ukraine Legalizing BTC and the Curious Case of Bolt's Expensive Female Driver Category

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 14:42:43 GMT

This week, Kenya was downgraded from the list of high-risk areas for piracy after 12 years, KNBS finally released the 2021 Economic Survey, Bolt introduced a more expensive category of female drivers, Tanzania finally ratified the AfCFTA and Ukraine joins the list of countries to legalizeBTC. Listen to our latest episode of We Are Curious to find out how Kenya's redesignation could board well for the shipping industry, alternatives for Bolt to still guarantee the safety of its clients without introducing expensive categories, and why Eritrea remains the only country yet to ratify the AfCFTA.

Listen to this and our other podcasts directly from the Hisa App available on Google Playstore and the Apple app store.

This episode features:

Felix Ochieng - Chief Financial Analyst, Hisa

Nicole Omaya - Community Manager, Hisa

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa

What it Takes to Have More African Women at a Global Leadership Stage with Esohe Denise Odaro

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 11:06:45 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi talks to Angaza Awards Judge Esohe Denise Odaro, breaking down her career journey to becoming the Head of Investor Relations, International Finance Corporation, including some of the lessons she learnt along the way, and how she defines success. Nuru and Esohe then shift gears to why it is important to focus on gender equality, what women in finance can do differently, and what it takes to have more African women on a global leadership stage, mirroring the success of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Finally, the duo closes the discussion with the opportunity in sustainable finance, and how professionals can look beyond the technicalities of their role to impact the lives of others by focusing on the human interest in their work.

This episode of features:

Nuru Mugambi - Director of Public Affairs at Kenya Bankers Association
Esohe Denise Odaro - Head of Investor Relations, International Finance Corporation
Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli - Podcast Producer and Host, Hisa.

Weekly Markets Update 33| Uptick in Small Cap Counters, Scangroup Results, Developments in NBV and How Guinea's Coup is Pushing Bauxite Prices

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 09:00:57 GMT

Last week, small counter stocks on the exchange recorded an uptick, evidenced by the rise in Week on Week activity, unlike the decline in large counters. In this episode, we break down why small counters stocks surged while large counter stocks dipped, and how that affected the performance of the exchange, analyse Scangroup results, and weigh how events in Guinea could affect bauxite prices globally.

NASI was down 4.1%, closing at 179.47 points due to the decline in large-cap stocks like Equity and Kakuzi, which fell 8% and 7.6%, respectively. The NSE-20 fell by 0.44%, closing at 2025.37 points, while the NSE-25 fell by 3.9%, closing at 3932.50. Equity Turnover fell by 15.6%, with Ksh 1.89 billion traded down from Ksh 2.5 billion worth of shares on the previous week.
Scangroup reported a loss of Ksh 1.7 billion for 2020. Group revenue was down 22% to Ksh 2.24 billion, while billings fell to Ksh 6.34 billion from Ksh 9.28 billion in 2019. The company's operating expenses rose by 26% to Ksh 3.4 billion. However, investors were bullish despite the dim performance.
Tech stocks were the top gainers globally. Nasdaq was up 21.6%, S&P 500 rose by 21.4% while the Dow 16.4% YTD. Week on Week, the Nasdaq was up 1.4%, S&P 500 up 0.7%, while Dow Jones was down 0.1%.
We await GME results on Wednesday this week to see how they will affect other stocks like AMC.
Guinea's coup led to the country closing its borders, which would affect bauxite going to China given that news of the coup already pushed Bauxite prices up.

We Are Curious 28| Regulation of Medical Fees, The Game Leaving Kenya, Tanzania's Mobile Levy and the Curious Case of Apple's Digital Driver's Licence

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 11:11:01 GMT

This week, we explore the proposals in the Health Amendment Bill of 2021, including the regulation of medical fees and restricting the bandwidth for hospitals to seek deposits before offering emergency services a how that could impact hospitals. We also talk about Game's announcement to leave the Kenyan market, following the list of South African businesses that find Kenya a waterloo. We close the episode discussing development in Apple's digital drivers' licence and how the world is moving towards more digital access and identification keys.

The Role of Financial Literacy in Encouraging Sound Financial Decisions With Equiti CEO Brian Myers

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 09:42:22 GMT

In this episode, Brian Myers and Mwakaneno Gakweli break down the importance of financial literacy in shaping investment decisions, avoiding scams and improving participation in investment products. We also talk about the role of different stakeholders in the finance space, like investment companies, trading brokerages, and regulators, in democratizing investor education to build trust in the sector. Finally, we highlight the various resources investors could consider in building their knowledge base around the subject, detailing the importance of time and experience as the ultimate guide to making better long-term investment decisions.

This episode features:

Brian Myers - CEO, Equiti Capital

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist, Producer and Podcast Host, Hisa

We Are Curious EP 27| Of UON School Fees Hike, Laikipia County Bond, SA's Cannabis Commercialization and the Curious Case of Vice Capital

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 02:57:17 GMT

This week, we discuss the hike in tuition fees for postgraduate and select undergraduate courses at the University of Nairobi following lower admission rates for self-sponsored students in recent years. On one hand, the university is stuck with debt and unpaid statutory fees. On the other hand, increasing tuition will likely scare off some potential students, feeding into the already dwindling admission rates. Is it time public universities in Kenya consider other sources of revenue beyond thinning tuition? We also break down the Laikipia County Infrastructure bond, a one of a kind instrument and whether some guests on the show would put their money in it.

Regionally, we head down south, detailing South Africa's record 34.4% unemployment rate for 2020 Q2 and how its citizens are now moving to sectors like manufacturing and construction, later outlining th potential to grow jobs through the country's cannabis sector as details in its national strategy.

Globally, we talk about the role of Vice Capital in enabling businesses considered "bad", such as firms in the adult content sector, building upon OnlyFans' decision to ban explicit content, and a later announcement reversing the move.

One in a Million: The Biography of Dr Manoj Shah

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:07:49 GMT

In this episode, Eric Asuma, Dr Manoj Shah, Dr Manilal Dodhia, and Sandeep Malu break down the success story of Dr Manoj, detailing his lessons, attributes, and principles that contributed to his success as a businessman and turnaround artist. We travel back to his early days in business, breaking down his core elements of success such as teamwork, mentorship, onward planning and global focus enabled him to build and scale Kingsway Group, MP Shah and Lions Sightfirst Eye Hospital. Finally, we talk about his biography "One in a Million" and why upcoming business people should read this encyclopedia for success.

This episode features:

Eric Asuma - CEO, Hisa Technologies

Dr Manoj Shah - Vice Chairman, Lions Sightfirst Eye Hospital and Chairman of Kingsway Group and MP Shah

Dr Manilal Dodhia - Chairman, Lions Sightfirst Eye Hospital

Sandeep Malu - Author, One in a Million

Weekly Markets Update 31| Banking Sector Results, The Opportunity in DRC and OnlyFans' Content Changes.

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 07:19:20 GMT

This week, we break down banking sector results and how investors on the NSE reacted to the different counters. We also discuss the opportunity in DRC, which banks like Equity and KCB are looking into, and the hurdles like instability and poor infrastructure could affect businesses eyeing the market. We close the episode talking about activity in global markets, focusing on the OnlyFans' changes in content, following pressure from banking partners, and what that would mean for investors and creators on the platform.

Role of Credit Data in Improving Lending Post COVID-19 with TransUnion Kenya CEO Billy Owino

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 15:20:20 GMT

In this episode, Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Billy Owino on how Kenya's credit sector has evolved with the COVID-19 pandemic, and how best lending institutions, policymakers and credit reporting agencies can leverage data to improve lending post-COVID. We discuss the power of alternative data sources to build credit scores, and what building bespoke lending terms could improve access to loans for clients with poor credit scores.

This episode features:

Billy Owino - CEO, TransUnion Kenya

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist and Podcast Host, Hisa

Episode Artwork by Munyigu Njoroge - Creative Designer, Hisa

Focusing Investment in Local Founders With Uncap CEO Franziska Reh

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:55:02 GMT

In this episode, Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Franziska Reh on why it is important to focus investment on founders, especially local founders and how that can make a large difference given their knowledge and experience in the market. We also discuss Uncap's investment strategy, leveraging ticket sizes between 10K - 50K USD to early-stage founders through a tech-enabled platform that helps build a portfolio that they can use in future funding rounds, as well as what fund managers can do to bridge funding gaps in regions and gender.

Personal Finance 102: How to Avoid Failed Investments

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 09:31:56 GMT

In this episode, Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Rina Hicks, founder of Money-Wise and Valentine Njoroge, Co-Founder and CEO of Africa's Pocket, recounting their experiences in losing money through failed investments and how it informed them to build Investable, an online course that gives you the confidence to make an investment plan that empowers you to be in control of your financial security. Rina shares her story of losing over $5000 to a scam packaged as a bitcoin mining company. In contrast, Valentine lost her finances to a fish farm after failing to streamline her operations.

Some of the key takeaways on avoiding failed investment from the podcast include:

Conducting due diligence on the investment, the management team behind it, and how it generates revenues.
Having clear goals before investing.
Diversifying an investment portfolio.
Making investment decisions in light of an individual's personal circumstances, such as cash flows, liquidity requirements, and debt.
Understand the true opportunity cost of every investment decision.

Investable will help you learn how to make smart investment decisions so that you are better equipped to avoid failed investments.
Gain the confidence to take control of your financial future, and learn more about the course by downloading this free guide to investing below.

Your free guide to investing: https://africaspocket.ck.page/7711988375

Weekly Markets Update 30| CIC's 2021 H1 Performance, Local Investor Dominance on the NSE and How Unrest in Afghanistan Could Affect Commodity Prices.

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 11:31:50 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team looks at CIC's performance for the half-year ended June 2021, analyse how local investors on the NSE outpaced foreign investor activity for the first time in a long time and weigh in on how unrest in Afghanistan and the Middle East could affect global commodity prices.

Highlights:

CIC reported a net profit of KSh260 million for H1 ended June 2021. Gross written premiums rose by 15% to 10.8 billion, while net earned premium rose by 0.5%.
The counter rose by 47% YTD and 54% YoY, ranking at 3rd on the exchange in YTD performance.
Local investors accounted for 65.65% of the total market activity on the NSE, overtaking foreign investors at 34.35%. Most of the investment went into Safaricom, Equity, KCB and Cooperative bank, while foreign investors mostly focused on EABL.
NASI was up by 1.5%, closing at 181.18 basis points. The NSE 25 rose by 0.84%, closing the week at 3950 basis points. The NSE 20 fell by 0.68%, closing at 1961.07 points.
Equity turnover was up 64.3%, closing the week at Ksh 2.45 billion trade in terms of trade. The bond market was also up 2.9%, with Ksh 21.9 billion worth of bonds traded. The total shares traded rose by 142%, with 110 million shares traded in the week.
Bank of Kigali was the top gainer for the week, up by 18%, closing at Ksh 38.25.
NBV was the top loser, shedding 14.8% and closing at Ks 5.92.
Ghana was the top-performing sub-Saharan African exchange for the week, with its all share index gaining 40.5% YTD. Zambia, Kenya and Uganda followed, gaining 19.2%, 19.1%, and 18.3%.
A destabilised Middle East would not board well for commodity prices starting with oil, likely affecting other markets.

We Are Curious EP 25| Of Ethiopia's Tigray War, Dip in Savings Culture, and The Kenyan Shilling Losing Streak

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 11:49:08 GMT

In this episode of We are Curious, the Hisa Team discusses how Ethiopia's Tigray war affects prospective investments in the country, following MTN's decision to pull out of the second licence bid. Could this affect Safaricom Ethiopia's prospects should the conflict stretch to 2022? We also question the incentives that should drive savings in Kenya, as the country battles with job losses thanks to COVID-19 and grapples with high living costs. Finally, we close the episode chatting on the weakening Kenyan shilling, and how that is likely to affect dollar-denominated debts.

Weekly Markets Update 29| The Uchumi Share Uptick, Reducing Kenya Power's Electricity Costs and Unga Group's Recent investment Plan.

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 03:29:37 GMT

In this episode, we inquire about the drivers behind Uchumi's rally and analyse Ormat's offer to reduce Kenya Power's electricity cost and improve its margins. We also break down Kenya Re's Revenue decline and the performance of various properties in Nairobi's real estate space.

How Africa Built This: Tech Giants.

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Untapped Global Founder Jim Chu hosts Melvyn Lubega (CEO OF South Africa's First Unicorn, Go1), Toyin Bajomo (CEO of rising Nigerian eCommerce company BabyBliss), and Falgu Shah ( BizOps and Expansion at Paystack), breaking down the criteria for long term expansion plan across the continent. Jim and the panel discuss how the startups navigate challenges like local competition, bridge developing and developing markets, and benchmark from ecosystems with similar challenges, users, or infrastructure.

Exploring Expansion Opportunities in the Lifestyle Segment with Winelife CEO Yoeal Haile

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 07:18:55 GMT

In this episode, Winelife Founder and CEO Yoeal Haile talks to Mwakaneno Gakweli on his journey into entrepreneurship, reflecting on his learnings on navigating the startup ecosystem in Africa from his as a former MD of Aspira and Founder of Winelife. Yoeal tells the story behind founding Winelife, breaking down the opportunity in the lifestyle sector, challenges when navigating regulation and why startups should consider expanding into tier 2 cities.

This episode features:

Yoeal Haile - Founder and CEO, Winelife

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist & Podcast Host, Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

We Are Curious EP 24| Of the NHIF Cash Crunch and its Relevance, M-Pesa Greenlight for Ethiopia's Mobile Money Licence and the Curious Case of Crypto Taxes

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 16:30:05 GMT

Each episode of We Are Curious breaks down the week's events in policy and tech in Kenya, Africa and the world. In this episode, the Hisa team discusses the current NHIF cash crunch thanks to massive job losses, weighing whether it is justifiable for the insurer to review premiums every five years. We then talk about the CBK's move to lower capital requirements to back mortgages from 53% to 50%, and its effect on liquidity. We then break down ECA's green light for M-Pesa's licence for financial services, what it means for Ethio, and how MTN's absence from the bidding pool could potentially leave leeway for Safaricom Ethiopia. Finally, the episode touches on proposed taxes on Crypto and what to expect from retail investors.

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Anchoring Sectoral-Level Growth Amid Fragile Post-Covid Recovery - A Chat with Moezz Mir

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 11:03:01 GMT

In this episode, CEO Moezz Mir shares with Mwakaneno Gakweli how the banking sector has supported businesses weather the pandemic through initiatives like restricting loans, and how new variants could shape similar initiatives in the future. We also discuss ways in which SBM has worked closely with its customers to drive recovery for both the bank and the clients and brainstorm on what it takes to bring back the worst-hit sectors in the Kenyan economy on their feet.

This episode features:

Moezz Mir - CEO, SBM Bank Kenya

Mwakaneno Gakweli - Business Journalist & Podcast Host, Hisa

Audio Production by Mwakaneno Gakweli

Weekly Markets Update 28| NBV's Volatility, Centum Financial Results and Amazon's Decline After $887M EU Privacy Data Privacy Violation Fine

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team analyses the decline of NBV, which fell 8.6% Week on Week, showing exceptionally high volatility on the exchange. NBV, the 13th most traded stock, still holds a record YTD performance, rising 93% for the period. We also look at the negative impact of the pandemic that led to Centum's Ksh 1.37 billion loss and what the selling part of the Two Rivers Development stake could do for the company. Lastly, we close the episode touching on events in global markets, including Amazon's decline after paying a hefty fine of $887 million for breaching EU Data Privacy Regulations, and highlight what investors can expect from Robinhood's listing on the Nasdaq.

Weekly Markets Update 27| The NBV Dip, Crackdown on Chinese Tech Companies and Asian Markets on the Red

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 10:26:50 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa Team discusses the bear trend in Asian markets following the DiDi crackdown, events around the NBV stock and things driving the local stock market.

Highlights:

The Chinese government is intensifying the fight against tech companies, alleging that they have misused their clients' data, running Chinese markets red. The low Chinese markets follow an earlier crackdown on DiDi post listing.
The Shanghai Composite index fell by 2.55% at market open, Shenzen component down 3.53% and the China A50 down 4.89%.
Investors filed a class-action suit against didi for defying the Chinese Cyberspace administration after losing money in the IPO. Didi has declined by 52% since IPO, losing up to $2 billion in market valuation.
NASI gained 0.12%, closing at 178.98 bp. NSE 20 and NSE 25 gained 0.49% and 0.17%. YTD gains for the two indices are 6.08% and 19.9%, respectively.
Turnover rose by 0.36%, with Ksh 1.84 billion worth of shares traded. Volumes declined by 13.4%, with 48.7 million shares traded.
NBV was the top loser decline 17.2% closing the week at Ksh 9.60. Express Kenya fell 8.4%, closing at Ksh 4.03.
On the gainer's side, Liberty Kenya rose 22.5%, while EAPC rose to 8.68 Ksh.
Total Kenya will pay its dividends on 31 July.

We Are Curious EP 23| Of Skewed Startup Funding, Bank of Uganda Taking Over Mobile Money, and the Curious Case of the B-Word Conference

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 12:50:14 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses startup funding in Kenya, exploring the skew towards foreign founders compared to native counterparts. We also talk about the bank of Uganda taking over mobile money regulation, how it will affect mobile money players and the potential partnerships it opens for banks and mobile money operators to develop new products. Finally, we close the episode by touching on the B-Word conference, and how Elon Musk's testimony pushed BTC.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Andrew Bourne on How Enhancing Data Protection Through Transparency and Privacy-Centric Regulation

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 12:19:08 GMT

In this episode, we talk to Andrew Bourne, Regional Manager for Africa at Zoho, on how best businesses can approach data privacy for their clients, which is an even more significant concern following the accelerated digital migration because of COVID-19. Some of the main points in this discussion include the importance of tracking tools like cookies and how businesses can responsibly handle data from cookies, seeking consent before sharing customer data and using less invasive tracking tools like first-party trackers. Andrew also shares insights on how best regulation could enhance data protection, alternatives to third party trackers, and how companies could operate in a pro-privacy regulatory environment.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

Using Cybercafes to Improve Business Penetration in Peri-urban Areas

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 11:11:18 GMT

In this episode, Ally Mwakaneno talks to Tania Ngima, Managing Director of DijITali at Digital Divide Data on how businesses can use the popularity, rural penetration, national footprint, and digital capabilities of cybercafes to drive product penetration in peri-urban populations, helping businesses validate their products and price point and test their distribution. Tania and Ally also discuss how the pandemic affected cybercafes and how tools such as capacity building and asset financing are helping these youth-led businesses expand and create employment for young people.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update 26| Safaricom and the NSE Indices' Uptick, Crown Paints Rights Issue, and Xiaomi Overtaking Apple in Global Phone Market share

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:04:16 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses how Safaricom's 3.27% uptick last week affected turnovers, dives into the Crown Paints rights issue, and what it will mean for the company and the global smartphone outlook with Xiaomi as the second-largest smartphone maker by market share.

Highlights:

There was positive activity in all indices, with the All-share index gaining 17.5% YTD and 1.9% week on week closing at 178.65 basis points. The NSE 20 added 20 basis points, closing at 1972.33 basis points, while the NSE 25 gained 37.01 points, closing at 3902.04 basis points.
The performance of the indices is likely driven by Safaricom, the top mover, whose counter rose by 3.27% following the licenced granted in Ethiopia and the subsidiary's announcement. Safaricom traded 855 million shares for the week.
DTB traded 5.2 million shares valued at 306 million, while Equity Group traded 4.5 million shares valued at 219 million.
Overall market turnover fell by 32.38% to close the week at 56.25 million, compared to 83.18 million recorded in the previous week.
Zoom is planning to acquire five9, a cloud-based service for $14.7 billion
Xiaomi is the second-largest smartphone exporter, overtaking apple by 3%, 17% of the global market share for the last quarter.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

734Coffee Founder Manyang Reath Kher on Bringing African Coffee Back Home and Rewriting the African Story

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 09:02:26 GMT

In this episode, 734Coffee Founder Manyang Reath Kher chats with Ally Mwakaneno on his experience building an African Coffee company in the US and the challenges of setting up export operations. He also shares his progress in setting 734Coffee back in South Sudan, the company's genesis and its coffee source, what the homecoming means for him and how it will benefit the people in the value chain amidst massive regional integration efforts like the AfCFTA. Manyang shares the importance of connecting coffee farmers to the products they inspire, why it is important for him to provide world-class quality coffee in Sudan as he does in Washington DC, and how the company's experience with the refugee crisis has given it the resilience to face political risk in South Sudan. Finally, Ally And Manyang close the episode chatting on why African businesses and media need to rewrite the African story to the world and put the continent back on the map for its great products.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

Demystifying Impact Investment: Balancing Impact and Business Metrics When Investing in SMEs

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 09:22:12 GMT

In this episode, Ally Mwakaneno chats with Vital Capital Managing Partner Nimrod Gerber on why it is crucial for investors to equally weigh the potential impact and the business case of a venture before investing. Nimrod talks about the different impact and finance metrics such as ESG and profitability, the relationship between profitability and impact sustainable businesses and how businesses can work with governments through tools like blended finance in areas of mutual concern. Nimrod closes the episode recounting Vital Capital's experience in lending to companies in Sub-Saharan Africa on the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lessons the company learnt, which will enhance collaboration with more SMEs beyond the COVID-19.

Highlights:

Impact investors should analyse the impact of a business as if there are no financial metrics and weigh the financials of a company as if there is no impact, only investing in businesses that check both boxes.
There is no positive, sustainable impact if a business is not financially sound. A profitable business is likely to attract investors, making it easier to create a sustainable, scalable impact.
Setting clear rules and definitions and availing all information creates an ideal environment for partnerships between governments and businesses.
It is easier to invest in areas where investors, authorities and investees have a financial stake and where information is readily available and easy to access.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update 25| The Virgin Galactic Space Launch, Risen Indices and Kenya Power Transformers Auction.

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:31:44 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team and family discuss Richard Branson's launch into space and how it might affect Virgin Galactic Stocks. We also talk about the ongoing events with KRA announcing that it will auction Kenya Power Transformers, currently at the port for 7 years following unpaid dues, and detail the story behind risen indices in the last week.

Highlights:

CIC was the Top gainer, up 41.3%, closing at Ksh 3.39 following the changes in the board, a sign of optimism among the investor community.
Crown Paints was the top loser for the week, shedding 27%. This comes after the rights issue, which affects the liquidity of the company.
There were declines in volumes of shares traded to 83 million from 89 million. The Week on Week turnover grew to Ksh 2.7 billion, up from Ksh 2.5 billion.

Citibank Kenya CEO Martin Mugambi on How the Role of Banking Sector in Supporting Economic Recovery From the Pandemic

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 11:03:37 GMT

In this episode, Citibank Kenya CEO Martin Mugambi chats with Ally Mwakaneno on the role banks play in supporting businesses and the economy to recover from the pandemic through restructuring loans, extending credit down the supply chain through last-mile financing, and creating digital-first banking. Martin delves deeper into the role of digitization in changing how banks operate, touches on the opportunity cost of missing out on digital channels, and mentions some key events to watch out for in the 2021 H2.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

We Are Curious EP 22| The Cost of Starting a Business, Defunct Parastatals and the Curious Case of Income Tax Exemption For Family Trusts

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:05:27 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team breaks down the World Bank Report on the Cost of Starting a Business, detailing where Kenya sits in the continent and why the relatively lower costs mean little to entrepreneurs if they still encounter high regulatory running costs. We further discuss the next step for parastatals following the IMF call to restructure state corporations and close the episode with a pro-con analysis on the income tax exemptions for family trusts.

Bulls, Bears and Whiskey Ep 11 | DiDi's Regulation Troubles, High Crypto Volatility Index and New taxes Affecting Kenya's Businesses.

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 14:00:49 GMT

In this episode, The Hisa Family discusses how privacy concerns about DiDi brought the transporting company in crosshairs with the Chinese regulators, detailing the difference in terms of how liberal and communist markets view privacy. They further discuss the silence in cryptocurrency activity after China's crackdown and how the new taxes on utilities like Airtime will affect businesses in Kenya.

Kwehnui Tawah on Supporting Underbanked Dukas Through Working Capital Credit

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 15:28:03 GMT

In this episode of the Startup Show, Head of Special Projects at Sokowatch Kwehnui Tawah chats with Mwakaneno Gakweli on Sokowatch's experience in lending to underbanked Dukas within East Africa, detailing the importance of working capital credit, challenges in the space, and the role of data and emerging tech in creating customer-centric loan products for small scale retailer.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update 24| Banking Sector Performance, Effects of the NMG Buyback, Centum Results and Developments in Global Semiconductor Manufacturing

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:37:37 GMT

Last week we had news of various taxes that are likely to affects markets this week. In this episode, we discuss the performance of various sectors on the NSE, analyse Centum's results and how the pandemic affected the real estate sector, and look at how the semiconductor shortage and TSMC's announcement give Apple and Intel first access to chips will mean for global markets.

Highlights:

The All-share index came down at 0.41 points, 0.24pc closing at 171.21.
Centum reported a 71.7% decline in net profit for FY ended March 2021 due to reduced demand in residential units.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company said Apple and Intel would be the first companies to adopt their semiconductors, currently undergoing testing.

CDSC CEO Nkoregamba Mwebesa on the State of Capital Markets in Kenya and Innovations to Boost Investor Uptake

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 05:59:59 GMT

In this episode, Central Depository & Settlement Corporation CEO Nkoregamba Mwebesa discusses the state of capital markets in Kenya, including investor uptake on the CDSC, changes brought by the pandemic and initiatives the corporation to cut dormancy and boost investor uptake, targeting to double the number of active accounts in the next 3 years. He also shares various innovations by the corporation, including the upcoming launch of API endpoints, which will allow users to connect directly to the CDSC and partnerships that will allow mobile money lenders to lend to customers using shares as security.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu - Graphics Designer, Hisa Technologies

We Are Curious EP 19| Of Excise Duty on Airtime and Loans, Tax Refunds, China's loan Freeze and the Curious Case of Rwanda's EV Charging Systems

Sat, 03 Jul 2021 13:14:59 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team explores how the new excise duty on airtime, LPG, and loans will affect people's lives. We also discuss IMF's conditions for loans for the country, and China's move to stop lending to Kenya and what the country needs to do to access more funding. Finally, we close the episode highlighting Rwanda's rollout of public EV charging stations, Elon's Dogecoin song and dive into the benefits of NFTs.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

AVCA CEO Abi Mustapha-Maduakor on Bridging the Funding Gap and Attracting Commercial Funding to Africa's Investment Ecosystem.

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 08:20:44 GMT

In this episode, Ally Mwakaneno talks to African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (AVCA) CEO Abi Mustapha-Maduakor on why global investors should invest in Africa, detailing the opportunities, gaps, and challenges in the continent. Abi talks about bridging the funding gap by providing data on different markets in the continent through providing data that allows investors and fund managers to make informed investment decisions. Abi and Ally close the episode by discussing investment trends in Africa for the past five years and some of the things AVCA looks forward to in 2021.

Highlights

Investors should consider Africa because seven out of the world's ten fast-growing economies are in Africa, a testimony of the continent's elasticity and opportunity. Africa is has a growing youthful population set to double by 2050, with many young people turning to entrepreneurship, presenting an opportunity to invest in them and their ideas.
Data on the funding ecosystem in the market, thriving sectors, and deals guide investment pathways into new jurisdictions.
Africa's young ecosystem offers challenges developing infrastructure, varying regulations across the continent and currency devaluations. Investors respond to currency volatility by investing in businesses that are generating revenue in foreign currency.
There are gaps in regulation across the continents. However, governments are increasing their commitment to creating a more enabling environment for both business and investment through fiscal policy, among other measures to attract FDI.
Businesses in Africa could position themselves to be more investable by giving investors more confidence in how their finances would be used through separating personal and business finances and aligning back end operations through proper tracking of expenses.

Weekly Markets Update 23| The NBV Rally, Total's share Ex Dividend and Last Week's Overall Market Activity

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 14:27:35 GMT

Last week, the NSE recorded a market turnover of Ks 3.3 billion achieved by 112 million shares traded on the exchange. The NASI and the NSE 20 both declined, likely attributed to Safaricom's 1.21% dip week on week to Ksh 40.75. In this episode, our in-house Financial analyst explores the performance of different sectors for the week, specifically looking at why Kenya's energy sector lags. The episode also touches on some of the stellar stock performances on the exchange, such as NBV's impressive 94% YTD growth and the effect of corporate actions like Total trading ex-dividend and NMG's buyback.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Sharon Kinyanjui on Remittances During the Pandemic and Scaling Career in Fintech

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 18:05:47 GMT

In this episode, Sharon Kinyanjui, EMEA Director at WorldRemit, talks about the status of remittances during the pandemic and how being a digital-first company has driven the growth in remittances through WorldRemit. She also describes her career journey, opportunities for women in Fintech and books that inspire her. Finally, Sharon shares tips on the transition through various fields in career, networking, and building transferable skills.

This episode features:

Sharon Kinyanjui - EMEA Director - Europe, Middle East & Africa, Receive Markets at WorldRemit

Eric Asuma - Co-Founder & CEO; Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Bulls, Bears, and Whiskey EP 9 | A Deep Dive into The Volatility and the Regulation of Crypto

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 11:12:58 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team and family discuss volatility in cryptocurrency assets and some crypto assets' rise (and fall). The podcast delves into the difference between cryptocurrencies and crypto assets, the basics of crypto assets, and why the existence of various cryptocurrencies poses a challenge to regulation. We also explore the effect of China's offensive standpoint towards crypto investors and miners and the adoption of cryptocurrencies in smaller jurisdictions like El Salvador, Tanzania and South Africa toward cryptocurrencies and how it might affect investors in the space. Finally, we look at how risk-averse investors not ready to dive into cryptocurrency portfolios could invest in crypto-related industries such as listed mining companies.

Highlights:

The El Salvador adoption is less about making cryptocurrencies legal tenders and more about giving more room for innovation around the assets.
Investors who cannot afford older assets like bitcoin could consider more recent assets like altcoins.
China's standpoint could be its posterchild model of developing its own systems similar to their approach towards search engines and application stores. Nevertheless, its crackdown on crypto is likely to affect prices in the future, given the population and influence of the country.
Regulation targeting crypto platforms could reduce risks like scamming and offer reprieve to investors.

Weekly Markets Update EP 22 | Turnover Decline on the NSE, A Shift from Equities to Fixed Income Securities and Govt Plans to Allocate Ksh 5B to Kenya Power

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 10:34:42 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses the decline in turnover on the NSE by 50% to 66 million shares valued at Ksh 2.3 billion, mainly because in the week before, we had a lot of activity in the banking sector which declined last week. NASI rose slightly upwards 0.05%, while the NSE 20 share index was down about 10.71%. Most of the contracts on the derivatives markets expired last week, with 300 hundred contracts traded on the exchange, valued at Ksh 10.4 million. Finally, we discuss why the shift from Equities to Fixed Income as fund managers and investors look for stable returns, closing with discussions on what to expect in the government's plan to allocate Ksh 5 billion to Kenya Power, the Jubilee-Allianz deal, which kicks in today, and Centum following last week's changes.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Joanita Lunkuse-Jaggwe on the Importance of Recognizing the Achievements of Women, and Investing in the Women Agenda

Sat, 19 Jun 2021 09:00:37 GMT

In this episode, Expert Finance at Office of the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit in Uganda and Angaza Awards Top 10 Finalist Joanita Lunkuse-Jaggwe shares her experience in risk and policy towards shaping the women agenda, women who inspire her and investing in women. She also reflects on her journey in applying for the Angaza awards and why it is essential to recognize the achievements of women.

This episode features:

Joanita Lunkuse-Jaggwe - Expert Finance at Office of the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit in Uganda

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Elizabeth Wasunna-Ochwa on Supporting Women in Business Beyond Access to Finance, Scaling the Career Ladder and Exploring Opportunities Abroad

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 09:12:32 GMT

In this episode, Director of Business Banking at Absa Bank Kenya Plc and Angaza Awards Top 10 Finalist Elizabeth Wasunna-Ochwa shares her experiences in scaling her career, the challenges she faced and how she overcame them. She further delves into the challenges women face in business and how improving market access, supporting young ventures and business continuity plans complement offering access to finance. Elizabeth closes the episode with words of advice on the importance of recognizing the achievements of women and creating a support system that allows women to seek opportunities both in and outside the country.

This episode features:

Elizabeth Wasunna-Ochwa - Director of Business Banking at Absa Bank Kenya Plc

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Weekly Markets Update EP 21 | The Transcentury 5:1 Rights Issue, Williamson Tea Profit Warning and and Positive Indices for the Week

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:34:50 GMT

In this episode of the weekly markets update, the Hisa team and community discuss details of the Transcentury rights issue, looking to raise about Ksh 600 million from the action. We also discuss the Williamson Tea profit warning, following blows of COVID, and the depressed property market. Finally, we close the discussion with other movers and gainers in the market and the week's indices performance.

An Interview With Jukka Blomberg, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at LocalBitcoins

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 13:16:04 GMT

In this episode, we chat with Jukka Blomberg, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at LocalBitcoins, the oldest and the largest P2P bitcoin marketplace in the world serving users in more than 190 countries.

Jukka Shares insights on the growth of the platform across Africa, emerging opportunities and trends as well as crypto use cases in the continent.

We Are Curious EP 18| Of Safaricom's e-Sim, Resumed Flights to Somalia, World Bank's Global Economic Prospects and the Curious Case of the Kenyan Budget

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 03:40:14 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses the details of Safaricom's recently launched e-Sim and developments following President Uhuru's discussion with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy on opening Ethiopia's mobile money market and how that could open doors for Kenyan banks and fintechs to explore the new market. We also talk of the rocky Kenya-Somalia relationship, the resumed flights across the two countries and its possible impact. Finally, we discuss Tanzania's waiver for VAT on mobile devices and World Bank's mildly optimistic prospects for Sub-Saharan Africa for 2022, as different countries recover from blows of COVID-19 on manufacturing, tourism and agricultural exports.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Moses Muthui on the Role of the Banking Sector in Spearheading Economic Recovery from COVID-19

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:43:15 GMT

In this episode, Hisa CEO Eric Asuma chats with Absa Kenya Chief Strategy Officer Moses Muthui on how Kenyan banks can play an active role in driving the economy's recovery from COVID-19. Moses details Absa's steps to be part of the solution through its lending efforts despite the subdued environment, among other initiatives like payment holidays. He further talks about what to expect in terms of Absa's results after normalization in light of rising economic activity.

This episode features:

Moses Muthui - Chief Strategy Officer & FD, Corporate & Investment Banking at Absa Kenya

Eric Asuma - CEO, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update EP 20| Safaricom Writing Off Telcos' Debt, Jubilee's Share Buyback and A Review of Last Month's Market Performance

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:49:21 GMT

For the first time in a few weeks, Safaricom did not emerge as the leading stock trading on the exchange. In this episode, we discuss how the market performed last week, touch on Jubilee's plans for the buyback awaiting its AGM and review top gainers and losers for May 2021.

We Are Curious EP 17| The Ban on Humanitarian Flights to Somalia, Spikes in May Inflation and the Curious Case of the Ghana's E-Cedi

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 08:53:06 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa Team explains the reasons behind the ban of humanitarian flights to Somalia and other things fueling the deteriorating relations between Kenya and Somalia. We also discuss the risen May inflation and how June is likely to record higher rates, with the Ksh 3.6T budget waiting around the corner. Finally, we close the discussion with highlights on Ghana's planned digital currency and how the E-Cedi, backed by the Central Bank, could finally inspire African regulators to adopt crypto.

#CEOChat MOriental Bank CEO Alakh Kohli Harnessing Digital Banking Opportunities For Business Continuity

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode, MOriental Bank CEO Alakh Kohli talks of harnessing digital banking opportunities for business continuity, going into detail about how mobile banking changing the Kenyan banking space through innovations like Pesalink and why USSD banking is important for the financial sector deepening. He also talks of the importance of initiatives like Kaa Chonjo, promoting a two-way approach towards protecting banks and clients against cybersecurity threats like phishing and identity theft. Finally, Kohli talks about cryptocurrencies in the banking space and the need of adopting the right framework which protects clients, banks and stakeholders over the proclivity to be the first mover.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Bulls, Bears, and Whiskey EP 7 | A Deep Dive of Safaricom's Entry Into Ethiopia and Tidbits of Equity and KCB Results

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 12:29:56 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team and community discuss the details of Safaricom's entry into Ethiopia, including the investments, possible risks, costs, and short and midterm outlook. We also talk about Equity and KCB's Q1 results and Equity's regional expansion.

Highlights

The consortium led by Safaricom has committed $8.5 billion over ten years in one of the largest single foreign direct investment into Ethiopia.
The capital outlay is likely to weigh down on the company's free cash flows, as Safaricom is likely to include the Special Purpose Vehicles' books into its books, given that it owns more than 50% share.
Without a Mobile money licence at present, Safaricom will have to reduce its telephony charges to compete favourably with Ethio Telecom as it is not a market leader in the Ethiopian market, which could incur losses from voice, data and messaging, likely to be borne by the parent entities of the SPV.
At early stages, Safaricom needs to increase its market share significantly to obtain pricing power in a market likely to be price competitive.
Operations in Ethiopia are slated to begin in 2022, awaiting final clearance from the Ethiopian government.
The Ethiopian market is, however, a massive opportunity given its population estimated at 112 million.

Lami Technology CEO Jihan Abass On Bridging the Access and Distribution Gap in Africa's Insurance Sector Through Technology

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 06:58:02 GMT

In this episode, Lami Technology Insurance CEO Jihan Abass talks to Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli on the gaps in access to insurance in Africa and how the Lami's embedded insurance technology solves the distribution problem in Kenya and Africa. She also discusses the pandemic's challenges and how COVID-19 pushed insurance companies towards digital distribution channels and challenges and milestones the company has made since its founding. The Founder further explains how efficient collection and verification of KYC documents fasten the claim process and mitigates fraud.

Jihan closes the episode sharing her experience in fundraising and some tips that could improve access to funds for female business, including encouraging more women to start businesses at a young age and what startups can consider before picking investors.

This episode features:

Jihan Abass - Founder and CEO of Lami Technology Insurance

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update EP 20 | What to Expect from the NMG Buyback, KenGen's Decline, Bank of Kigali's Stellar Performance and China's Crypto Crackdown

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:16:22 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team shares details on the NMG Share Buyback Plan, the terms, and what investors can expect. We also talk about KenGen's decline in light of the announcement of beginning of the Djibouti power project in June and the Kenya power debt, and the impressive performance by the Bank of Kigali in Q1.

Highlights.

NMG's buyback is pegged at a maximum of Ksh 25 per ordinary share, with plans to purchase the shares through an open market, subject to shareholder approval.
Repurchased shares, which is 10% of the total shares, will be classified as tertiary stocks and will therefore have no voting rights or dividends.
Safaricom was still the top perfomer at 52.09% of the week's traded value.
Kengen announced the begininng of the Djibouti power project in June . However, its share still dipped in the week. While the company has various projects outside the country, the returns from Ethiopia and Djibouti are a pale comparison to the Kenya Power debt, and the perfomance of Kenya Power, which weighs on its counter.

Interview with Yellow Card CEO Chris Maurice

Mon, 31 May 2021 20:34:08 GMT

In this episode, we interview Chis Maurice, the CEO of Yellow Card, a digital currency exchange for the cash market.

Chris talks about his background and the beginnings of Yellow Card.
The adoption of crypto across Africa
How Yellow Card is different from other Crypto players in Africa
Yellow Card's approach to crypto education and regulation
New Products from Yellow Card

You can also listen to this podcast on Hisa App.

Judith Sidi Odhiambo on The importance of Sustainability in Banking, Highlighting the Achievements of Women and Telling an Impact Story

Mon, 31 May 2021 13:02:46 GMT

KCB Group Head of Corporate Affairs and Anganza Awards Finalist Judith Sidi Odhiambo speaks on importance of sustainability the banking sector in improving access to green climate funds, how highlighting the achievements of women creates role models, building inclusive work spaces though mentorship and training and why giving an impact story helps to unlock opportunities.

This episode features:

Judith Sidi Odhiambo - KCB Group Head of Corporate Affairs

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

#CEOChat Caritas Microfinance Bank CEO David Mukaru on Enhancing SME and Household Access to Credit

Mon, 31 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the KBA CEO Chat, Caritas Microfinance Bank CEO David Mukaru talks about what it takes to improve access to credit for MSMEs, including the importance of formalization and registration and using a data-driven approach to determine creditworthiness. David speaks of the challenges institutions face when lending to small businesses, such as poorly formed business plans and lack of separation between family finances and business finances. He closes the episode touching on how microfinance institutions leverage customer service, social collateral, and a savings culture to grow the Kenyan SME space.

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Podcast Host, Hisa Technologies

Snippet Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

CBK Rate, Expected Funds for Budgetary Support, MGM Acquisition and the Curious Case of Aliko Dangote

Sun, 30 May 2021 07:27:18 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa teams talks about Equity Bank's and Family Bank's performance for the quarter, why the Central Bank maintained the lending rate at 7% and Aliko Dangote's renewed investment drive in Tanzania. We also discuss expected funding from the AfDB and World Bank, investment in startup sectors beyond fintech and the MGM acquisition by Amazon.

Highlights:

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

APA Life Insurance CEO Catherine Karimi on the Challenges in Scaling her Career and The Importance of Highlighting Women

Thu, 27 May 2021 09:59:45 GMT

In this episode, APA Life Insurance Chief Executive Office and Angaza Awards Finalist Catherine Karimi discusses the challenges she faced in rising in her career, overcoming gender stereotypes insurance, and winning the Angaza awards. Catherine also speaks on the importance of celebrating the achievements of women, initiatives to make insurance more accessible to women, and making an impact on the community.

Highlights:

Catherine Karimi - CEO and Principal Office, APA Life Insurance company

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Episode Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Maelis Carraro on Empowering Startups in Underserved Markets to Drive Financial Health

Thu, 27 May 2021 09:57:18 GMT

In this episode of Meet the Investor, Maelis Carraro, Catalyst Fund Managing Director, explains the work the fund does in empowering startups in underserved markets to deepen financial access and financial health.

She further explains the why the fund's model of working with an investor board and offering grants of unto $100,000 to early stage startups is critical to helping those companies scale up their operations and impact and even ready them for further funding.

However, she is quick to note that a lot needs to be done in emerging markets and specifically in Africa to drive financial health in underserved populations especially women, poor, rural and unbanked customers.

We also discuss on what the Catalyst Fund looks for in startups when investing and finish off with a call to action for startups wishing to join the June 2021 cohort.

This episode features:

Maelis Carraro – Managing Director, Catalyst Fund

Eric Jackson – Co-Founder & CTO, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Dario Giuliani on The Role of Media and Visual Intelligence in the African Startup Ecosystem

Thu, 27 May 2021 06:24:23 GMT

In this episode of The Startup Show, Briter Bridges Founder Dario Giuliani takes us through their growth from one innovation map on a Friday evening in 2018 to a full-scale business intelligence startup covering emerging markets and specifically Africa.

Dario further breaks down the themes from their recent reports titled The State of Fintech in Emerging Markets and The State of Technology and Investment in Francophone Africa.

We talk about the funding landscape in Africa and try to understand why M&As are more prominent while seed rounds as still quite low in ticket size despite the increase in number. We further discuss the growing need for startups to look at underserved markets like women, rural, poor and unbanked populations in their apps.

On what we can expect from Briter Bridges, Dario promises us more maps and more deep-dive reports :)

This episode features:

Dario Giuliani – Founder, Briter Bridges

Eric Jackson – Co-Founder & CTO, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Weekly Markets Update EP 19 | Safaricom's Entry Into Ethiopia, Unga and Bamburi Cement Declines and Banking Sector Q1 Results

Wed, 26 May 2021 08:46:50 GMT

Last week, the NSE experienced a flat activity on the NASI, with other market indices declining. The NSE 20 was down 4.38 points, closing the week at 1858.87 basis points, while the NSE 25 was down by 0.18 points to close the week at 3586.44 points following a decline in some companies trading flat like Bamburi Cement and Unga Group.

Highlights

News of Unga group internal restructuring dropped its share price by 11.95% for the week.
Bamburi cement decline could be a market correction but also a result of a few corporate actions. The company had its book closure on May 16 and announced a first and final dividend on Ksh 3 per share. The payment for the dividend will be due on July 15 2021.
We had a price gain on NMG 10.6% closing the week at Ksh 16.65.
Safaricom winning the Ethiopia telecom licence bid drove its share at the beginning of this week. However, the Ethiopian expansion will raise its liabilities, and returns might take up to 5 years.
StanChart's net interest income fell by 2%, while loan and advances dipped by 6%. Its profit after tax grew by 19%.
Co-op bank Profit after tax fell by 3.7% to 3.5 B attributed to higher provisioning.
Absa profit after tax grew by 23.7% in Q1, which pushed activity for the week. Interest income fell by 0.3%, while income from govt securities fell by 1.8%. Loan loss provisions grew by 24.9% to 1.4 billion.

We Are Curious EP 16| Of the Lamu Port, Safaricom's Controlling Stake in Licenced Ethiopia Consortium, CBZ's Upcoming Listing and the Curious Case of Twitter Verification

Sun, 23 May 2021 09:33:58 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa Team discusses what the Lamu port launch means for trade and how the project faces questions tied to the precarious pipeline and the dead-end that is the coal plant. We then delve into matters Safaricom, its dominant stake in the consortium, Vodacom's weighing to sell part stake in M-Pesa and high transaction charges. Finally, were close the episode with a conversation on compulsory contributions to the NHIF, looming CBZ Holdings Bank Listing on the Victoria Stock Exchange and developments on Twitter verification.

This episode features:

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Equity Bank Group Executive Director Mary Wamae on the Need for Concerted Effort to Bring Women to the Top Level Management

Sat, 22 May 2021 12:21:22 GMT

In this episode, Group Executive Director at Equity Group Holdings PLC and Angaza Awards Finalist Mary Wangari Wamae talks about the importance of coordinated effort to encourage more women to occupy top management positions. She reflects her transition from law to banking, spearheading the group's listing in various countries in the region and growing the bank's balance sheet from Ksh 4 billion in 2004 to Ksh 1.1 trillion in 2021. Finally, we wrap the episode with a discussion on what it takes to scale the career ladder, the importance of integrity creating networks, and how receiving accolades and recognition inspires others.

This episode features:

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies
Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli
Episode Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Elsie Mbugua on Boosting Sustainable Investments in the Energy Sector

Thu, 20 May 2021 22:12:24 GMT

In this episode, Leadwood Energy Founder and Managing Director, Elsie Mbugua explains the shift in the energy trading industry over her 15 year career spanning stints in Goldman Sachs, J.P Morgan and in different continents from US to London and now Africa. She further talks about the shift in investments from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the increasing need for environmental, social and corporate governance in companies. We then wrap up the discussion with some of the innovations to look forward to in the energy sector in Kenya and Africa at large.

This episode features:

Elsie Mbugua – Founder and Managing Director, Leadwood Energy

Eric Jackson – Co-Founder & CTO, Hisa Technologies

Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli

Episode Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

How Recognition Drives Motivation, The Importance of Mentorship, and How Celebrating Achievements of Women Inspires Younger Generations

Thu, 20 May 2021 06:54:34 GMT

In this episode, Quantainsure and Quantarisk co-founder and Angaza Awards Finalist Pooja Bhatt highlights the importance of reflecting and documenting achievements, making her mark in the insurance industry and mentoring young people. She also talks about how recognizing the accomplishments of women gives younger women a chance to aspire for greatness and mentions women that inspire her.

This episode features:

Pooja Bhatt – Co-founder and CEO, Quantarisk and Quantainsure
Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies
Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli
Episode Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Aisha Pandor Tells the Story of SweepSouth's Founding, Fundraising and Revolutionizing Africa's Cleaning Services

Wed, 19 May 2021 06:48:25 GMT

A nanny search, a random pitch, and a cleaning service platform. SweepSouth Co-founder Aisha Pandor tells the story of how her nanny's holiday break and a convoluted journey of finding a short-term replacement inspired her to build a platform that connects homeowners with home service providers offering cleaning, among other services. Aisha chats with Mwakaneno Gakweli on the early days of scaling the startup, how Aisha and her husband and SweepSouth CTO Alen Ribic bootstrapped their way through their savings, pensions, and selling personal items, meeting their first investor in an unexpected pitch, and scaling the business across Africa.

SweepSouth bridges the trust and convenience gap for homeowners while solving the unemployment and underemployment problem in the informal sector.

This episode features:

Aisha Pandor – Co-founder and CEO, SweepSouth Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli – Business Writer & Host, Hisa Technologies Audio Production by Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli Episode Artwork by Muteti Munyambu – Hisa Technologies

Weekly Markets Update EP 18 | Of Banking Sector Activity on the NSE, Scangroup's Decline and What Israeli-Palestine Clashes Mean for Investors

Mon, 17 May 2021 12:10:39 GMT

Last week, the All-share index dropped by 3.12%, 5.3 basis points likely backed by the decline of Safaricom, a market mover whose price fell by 3.43% week on week, closing at Ksh 39.40 on Friday. Banks accounted for 60.92% of the market activity while Safaricom did 32%. NBV and Crown Paints topped the gainers list, moving 12.1% and 8.89%, respectively. On the losers side, Scangroup dropped by 8.85% because of the statement announcing delays on their financial statement.

Some of the matters moving markets this week include the mounting clashes between Israel and Palestine, which could pull in other countries like Iran, affecting things like oil prices. The involvement of countries like the US could affect local markets, as foreigners dominate the NSE.

NCBA Bank Rwanda CEO Lina Higiro Talks of Being Intentional on Structural and Soft Changes Needed to Create Inclusive Workspaces

Mon, 17 May 2021 08:01:00 GMT

NCBA Bank Rwanda Chief Executive Office and Angaza Awards Finalist Lina Higiro chats with Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli on her career journey, the challenges she faced, and her milestones. In the podcast, Lina highlights the different forms of acknowledging the contributions of women in companies and how highlighting the achievements in public inspires other capable women. Lina closes the episode by discussing initiatives she has co-led to create a pipeline for leadership and institutions that women would love to work for by focusing on mental health, career development and sexual harassment.

Highlights:

Organisations need to revise interview processes to define attributes of job in favour of gender inclusivity.
Encouraging women in public, both internally and in more prominent forums, develops a pipeline of capable women who can pursue achievements and opportunities at the workspace.
Competence and expertise do not automatically generate recognition and advancement. It is essential to speak up for yourself, cultivate a sponsor or a supporter who will advocate for your ideas at work, be vigilant for new opportunities, and give people a good reason to remember.

4G Capital CEO Discusses SME Lending During COVID-19 and Policies to Boost Access to Credit in the Informal Sector

Fri, 14 May 2021 12:50:12 GMT

4G Capital CEO Wayne Hennessy-Barrett discusses the Neobank's experiences in extending working capital credit to small businesses during COVID-19 and how partnerships with Citi and Mastercard provided the necessary raft for small businesses. Wayne says it is essential for the government to offer a protective framework for creditors and a favourable tax policy for businesses. Finally, he highlights the company's milestones for the year, including recent funding round and a Series C on the horizon.

Safaricom's FY 2021 Results, Integrating M-PESA into Amazon, Agile Plans and A Reflection of Peter Ndegwa's First Year at the Helm

Thu, 13 May 2021 13:50:03 GMT

In this episode, Peter Ndegwa talks about the transition to a fully fledged technological company and how it will impact its employees. He also reflects on his one year at the CEO seat and talks about moving the company beyond connectivity. Safaricom Chief Customer Officer Sylvia Mulinge talks of Integrating M-PESA into Amazon and a possible content partnership with the e-commerce giant.

Dr. Millicent Omukaga on Highlighting the Achievements of Women Changing the Finance Sector, and Policy Changes for a Gender Inclusive Management

Thu, 13 May 2021 08:51:25 GMT

In this episode, Angaza Awards Finalist Dr Millicent Omukaga, an Advisor-Women Empowerment and Financial Inclusion at African Development Bank Group, talks to Ally Mwakaneno on the importance of highlighting the achievements of women and how to bring to the surface women who are changing industries in the background. Millicent also shares how her career experiences brought the conscious need to interrogate the gender gap in management and how it inspired her to venture into mentorship for women and girls to draw attention to opportunities. Millicent shares the gaps in policy, including the need for better workplaces practices and policies addressing succession and pay and benefits management.

Read more on Dr Millicent's work on bringing gender equality on boards on her PhD Thesis: Women on Corporate Boards: Navigating Gender Hurdles to Access Corporate Boards in Kenya.

Bulls, Bears, and Whiskey EP 5 | Prospects of Rising Interest in US Markets, Crypto Regulation, Doge FOMO and Ethiopia's Risk Profile for Safaricom

Tue, 11 May 2021 10:06:03 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa Team discusses implications of higher interests in US markets on companies and investors. They also share their insights on the need for regulation in cryptocurrency, and how regulation could promote use cases for crypto as large corporations venture into the space. Finally, the team shares their sentiments on the two sides of Safaricom's entry into the Ethiopia market, including the market potential and the risks awaiting the consortium, should they secure the licence for Ethiopia.

Bulls, Bears and Whiskey EP 4 | Bamburi Cement's 2020 Results and Kings of the African Cement Market

Mon, 10 May 2021 11:41:04 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses the Bamburi cement results for 2020. Bamburi's numbers look good, but it could still do better, compared to its Tanzanian counterparts. Cement demand grew by 23%, but the company's revenues dipped 5.2%, showing higher competition in Kenya, especially in pricing, which has dropped its market share in Kenya. The cement market is likely to continue its price wars because of excess capacity of close to 42%.

The conversation touches on regional players in the African market like Dangote, and how their micro and macro environment is affecting their performance.

Weekly Markets Update EP 17 | Rising Optimism in the Banking Sector, Crown Paints Rights Issue, and Returns in Regional and Global Markets

Mon, 10 May 2021 10:06:42 GMT

In this episode, the Hisa team discusses developments in local markets last week, including the performance of banking sector stocks, and the Crown Paints rights issue. They also talk about commodity prices, and returns in other markets in Africa and the world.

Banks had good results for Q1 and an optimistic outlook going forward, buffered by low NPL deterioration where banks were adequately provisioned. Good results going forward assuming no uptick of deterioration of loans could be the market catalyst the NSE needs.
I&M completed the 90% acquisition of Uganda's Orient Bank LTD and today closes the books for the bonus of a ratio of 1:1. The transaction will lower EPS, and increase equity. Its share price is expected to fall after the bonus issue.
Regionally, returns from African markets like Zimbabwe are bringing YTD returns of 81% in local currency and 75% in USD.
In the US markets, S&Ps are trading at a PE of up to 35X with an average of 16 to 19 times, with investors taking into account possible underperformance given stocks are heavily valued and future growth already accounted for.

We Are Curious EP 15| Of Improving EAC Relations and Negotiating as a Bloc, Mitumba Imports, an 18% VAT, Twitter tips and the Curious Case of the MFB

Fri, 07 May 2021 18:36:51 GMT

Kenya is improving its relations with its neighbors, evident in the talks with Somali and Tanzania. The infrastructure initiatives, especially with Tanzania could be a nice way to make up for the lost SGR connection to DRC through the Northern Corridor. Africa could have a better chance negotiating with US and the UK as a bloc, but that would require addressing internal inconsistencies in trade policies within individual countries. The 2021 budget is likely to come with higher taxes. However, Yattani's bid to have absolute mandate over the VAT is unlikely to receive a parliamentary nod. Finally, Branch's acquisition of Century Microfinance Bank could be a leeway to obtain licences, and might spur growth of the bank if Branch follows its rapid growth strategy.

Building Back Better, HMTC Emma Wade-Smith Discusses Initiatives of Improving UK-Africa Trade During the Pandemic

Fri, 07 May 2021 10:49:39 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Her Majesty's Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa Emma Wade-Smith on what it will take to rebuild trade between Africa and the United Kingdom in the pandemic and post-Brexit. Emma also highlights initiatives in place by governments from both regions to boost trade relations, UK's support for African entrepreneurs, and mechanisms to include women in the African informal sector in the finance and trade space.

Bitzlato Chief Marketing Officer Oleksandr Honcharenko Why the Company is Exploring the African Cryptocurrency Market

Thu, 06 May 2021 14:26:28 GMT

Bitzlato Chief Marketing Officer Oleksandr Honcharenko talks about expanding into the African Crypto market, why Africa is ripe for Crypto and creating communities of cryptocurrency enthusiasts.

Weekly Markets Update EP 15| Safaricom's Worrying Dominance on the NSE, Allianz's Acquisition of Jubilee, County Infrastructure Bonds, and the NSE All Share Index

Wed, 05 May 2021 12:12:01 GMT

Last week, the All-share index gained 2.4% in the wake of regulation seeking to ease listing. However, there are risks like a looming capital gains tax hike that will push the cost of investing and political risks with the upcoming election. Safaricom's dominance on the NSE is bordering a threat, where a suspension of trading due to material announcement would likely affect the whole exchange.

Britam's share performance is because of losses from the fair value of property, and the Kshs 5 billion provision in their wealth management fund. Some of the company's prospects include looking for a strategic partner to boost capital in HF and help the bank recover.

Absa has had an oversupply in the market, with investors holding fort on both demand and supply.

Meet The Investor EP 2 | TLcom Capital Founder Maurizio Caio Discusses What Makes a Startup to Invest In, and Why the Africa Ecosystem Needs More Investment

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 08:14:39 GMT

In this episode, Ally Mwakaneno talks to TLcom Founder and Managing Partner Maurizio Caio on the algorithm of a great investment, why Africa's young startup ecosystem needs more venture capital, what is likely to be the next giant after fintech. Maurizio also tells the story behind TLcom's founding, its investment in portfolio companies like Autochek, Twiga, and uLesson.

Highlights:

A great investment opportunity would be a company operating in an attractive market, with a team with a compelling ability to articulate and execute a strategy, and have an entrepreneur willing to embrace the VC model of giving up sole ownership and leadership to accept the role of someone else on the board.
Africa faces the challenge of a lack of enough capital, especially for fast-growing companies that need huge funding at early stages. The ecosystem also young and fragile, facing the challenge to become like Silicon Valley. On the other hand, Africa has advantages like little technology risk than other ecosystems and large private equity funds that almost guarantee its with PE funds, unlike other ecosystems. Unlike other ecosystems, Africa has minimal legacy systems, allowing founders to design companies of the 21st century pegged on values like sustainability and equality, offering a sandbox for VCs of the future.
Fintech is an African giant because it is the most immediate application of tech, moving money, contracts, and lending. It shows the potential of technology outside the tech sector, extending the application of technology to other walks of life. The next opportunity after fintech will be dictated by great entrepreneurs, challenging investors to be more entrepreneur centric than sector centric.

Weekly Markets Update EP 14 | ARM Cement and Investor Protection, Safaricom Entry Into Ethiopia, Banking Stocks, and Liaison Group's Listing

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:06:13 GMT

Safaricom today announced that it is part of a consortium bidding for the telecommunications licences in Ethiopia, a high risk, high reward move since it only targets the telecommunication market. The move could drive its earnings in the short and mid-term, extrapolating Safaricom's growth in other markets.

Athi River Mining Cement is calling it quits, following its debt-fueled expansion and miscalculations in Tanzania. Its downfall is likely going to hurt many retail investors, calling for understanding of what it means to be a shareholder, the liability that comes with it and the necessary safety nets for investors.

Liaison Group listing is a test of the NSE's power to raise funds for companies, as Liason is looking to raise funds for Africa's expansion through the IPO. Investors await the company's prospectus.

We Are Curious EP 14| Of the Minimum Tax Pause, Coca-Cola and MTN Listing and the Curious Case of the Crypto Slump

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 09:52:24 GMT

In this episode, the minimum tax pause is a good break for small businesses. However, the conservatory orders only bar KRA from collecting the tax, which could change given that the agency appealed the ruling. The MTN and Cocacola listing on the RSE and JSE could present an opportunity for investors to look into regional markets. It also challenges other exchanges in the region like the Nairobi Securities Exchanges in the region to up their listings. Biden's tax policy on capital gains tax hike above $1 million was expected, dropping prices of all major cryptocurrencies. While it is likely to affect companies that hold crypto balance sheets like Microstrategy and Tesla, the currencies will likely peak in the long term.

Recognizing the Achievements of Women and Breaking in the Gender Glass Ceiling in Top Leadership

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 10:08:03 GMT

In this episode, Nuru Mugambi shares her experience in rising ranks in the banking sector, the importance of recognizing women who are shaping their financial institutions and the financial sector and taking up opportunities like the Angaza Awards. Nuru also speaks of how remuneration, strategic opportunities, leading task forces, and promotions are key to recognizing women and overall talent in companies.

Weekly Markets Update EP 13 | BAT's ex Dividend, Jubilee's Deal with Allianz, and Prospects of Safaricom's Climbing Share in Light of Upcoming Regulation.

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:41:58 GMT

BAT's decline could augur well for investors willing to buy the stock for the long term. Jubilee's underwriting business mimics the underwriting business across the industry, which is not as profitable. Jubilee's premium investment in government securities differentiates it from the industry, which largely invests premiums in equities, making it an outlier. However, the company's dividend payout ratio is low, at around 10%, which would not give investors the dividends they expect. Investors could consider holding, as we wait to see the outcome of selling its general insurance to Allianz. African Hair's listing is still a wait and see as investors recount on burns on previous IPOs. Safaricom's upclimb is good for the long term. However, possible legislation requiring the company to share infrastructure would shed the company's market share. Similarly, discussions on the Airtel/Telkom merger could boost its capacity in major towns countrywide, making it a stronger competitor.

We Are Curious Episode 13| Of EPRA's Hold on Pump Prices, the 30% Local Ownership Requirement, Rwanda's e-mobility Incentives, and the Curious Case of Turkey's Crypto ban

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 12:52:00 GMT

The government's requirement for international ICT Companies to have at least 30% local ownership could be interesting for investors and give the government more control over the data they obtain and how they use it. EPRA's decision to maintain pump prices hit retailer's margins, although the regulator attributed the move to a weaker dollar. This is likely to affect lower-scale Oil Marketing Companies in the sector. A stabilization fund would help lower fuel prices, protecting the country from direct shocks from changes in global oil prices. Rwanda is making bold steps in e-mobility following its announced incentives in the cost of energy, taxes, and infrastructure. Nigeria's FX ban on sugar and wheat is another stance to protect the Naira, which would benefit from internal sustainability. As for the case of Turkey, the country is looking to control illicit flows of funds as investors await the presence of a regulator across crypto assets. However, like many other hitches to crypto, the ban is likely to follow a better comeback for Crypto as an asset.

We Are Curious EP 12| Of IMF Loans, Govt Stake on Listed Companies, a Weaker Dollar, Nigeria's Cracking Down on Offshore Investments, Upcoming Coinbase Listing, and the Curious Case of Kipchoge's NFT

Sat, 10 Apr 2021 09:38:00 GMT

Kenya's COVID debt would receive more public support if the funds could be accounted for, and have visible impact to people and small businesses. While IMF loans are receiving backlash, they are cheaper alternatives to other lenders,and serves as a form of refinancing. There is the option of the government selling its stake on listed companies, which will generate upwards of Ksh 800 billion. The dollar losing ground means that Kenya can make savings on dollar denominated loans, and expect slight dips on oil prices. However, there have been cases in the past when the dollar came back stronger.

Nigeria's SEC is hitting on platforms for offshore investments, and it is a classic case of African regulation failing to catch up with innovation, similar to the failure of regulators across the continent taking a backseat stance on cryptocurrency.

Finally, Kipchoge's 2 NFTs trailblaze a path for athletes, and brand ambassadors to explore the NFT space, giving them opportunities to make more money.

Weekly Markets Update EP 12 | Equity Bank's Share After Results, Expectations on the MPC, NCBA Results, EABL After Another Lockdown, Homeboyz Entertainment and the Suez Blockage

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 11:53:09 GMT

Equity Bank's share dipped by 8.29% after the bank failed to declare a dividend. This, however, is a short term reaction given its strong financials and picking digitization strategy. The MPC is likely to maintain status-quo interest rates, as reducing the rates would not favour banks as much as it would favour borrowers. NCBA reported a 41% profit decline with a significant hit in earnings per share, declaring a dividend nonetheless. The new measures in five counties are likely to affect EABL. However, the effects will be negligible given that the lockdown affects five counties only, and EABL has taken steps to promote online sales. Changes in leadership outlook in Tanzania and the discovery of a new variant could change its COVID-19 measures, affecting EABL's performance in the country. EABL and UNFPA have cancelled their affiliation with Homeboyz Radio, a subsidiary of Homeboyz Entertainment but the effects are likely to be short term.

We Are Curious EP 11| Of Movement Restrictions, COVID-Stricken Insurance Sector, Safaricom's 5G, Tesla Accepting Bitcoin for Cars and the Curious Case of the the Suez Canal

Sat, 27 Mar 2021 10:10:24 GMT

In this episode, the Kenyan Wallstreet and HIsa Team talk about how the new movement restrictions in response to COVID-19 are necessary to protect lives but highly inconsiderate for businesses facing high taxation and students who just resumed schools. While Safaricom's 5G's launch means well for the future, it was a rushed decision, given that as of last year, only 16% of mobile devices countrywide supported 4G. The insurance sector is still taking blows from the pandemic, evident in CIC and Sanlam results. Elon Musk is a genius for trading depreciating teslas for appreciating bitcoin.

Esther Ndeti on the Status of Startup funding in Kenya, Women in Startups and VC and the Importance of Recognizing the Achievements of Women

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 12:35:27 GMT

Esther Ndeti shares her experience transitioning from a business founder to an Executive Director at EAVCA, a representative organization for private equity and venture capital funds in East Africa. She also talks about Kenya's venture capital space compared to other African countries, her experience with women in VC in East Africa, gender representation in both funding and startups, and the importance of celebrating and showcasing the work of women in the finance and banking space.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 11: Britam Offloading HF Stake, KQ's Halted Nationalization, Kenya's Retail Business, CBN's Crypto Position and Commodities Perfomance.

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 12:47:07 GMT

HF is up by 9.94% after Britam announced plans to sells part of its stake in the business to a bank, which could help its long term recovery depending on the buying bank. However, the rally is driven by speculation as the details of the transactions are still in the works. Parliament has halted the bill seeking to nationalize KQ, which faced numerous challenges last year because of the pandemic likely to affect its results. Carrefour's success in Kenya rides on proper management of agreements with suppliers and direct sourcing. Quickmart's PE investment could point out to its strength as a business.

We Are Curious EP 10| Of Rising Fuel Costs, Banking Sector Results, Airtel Selling its Mobile Money Arm and John Pombe Magufuli

Sat, 20 Mar 2021 09:05:40 GMT

Fuel prices are on aiming for the moon, banks have reported less profit and Tanzania lost a sitting president. Listen to the team explain why the high prices are not a tax issue as most of us think, shed light at the end of the dark tunnel of COVID hit banks, say a word about the late Magufuli, and write their wishlist for Samia Suluhu.

How Do you Decide to Invest in a Startup? Takuma Terakubo, CEO Uncovered Fund Explains

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 11:56:54 GMT

In February 2021, Uncovered Fund launched a $15 million fund to invest in early-stage startups in Africa. Ally Mwakaneno talks to CEO of Uncovered Fund CEO Takuma Terakubo on why they chose Africa, their areas of interest and why he started the venture capital.

Weekly Markets Update EP 10: Gains in NSE Indices, Impact of the Stimulus Check, NMG Week on Week Decline, and how COVID-19 Measures will Further Impact EABL

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 13:37:55 GMT

In this episode, the Kenyan Wallstreet and Hisa Team discuss how foreign investors are exiting local markets, hoping that banking sector results will turn the tide. We are likely to see an increase in bond buying, which will reduce interest rates after the stimulus check caused asset price inflation. Investors fear that the next stimulus check will fuel inflation, hence outflows from emerging markets. NMG week on Week decline is a result of profit-taking, despite long term prospects in its digital strategy. The team also discusses KCB's partnership with Huawei for a decentralized digital banking product.

We Are Curious EP 8| Mobius' Tax Tussle, NMG's Stock, Funding in African Startups, the Flutterwave Unicorn, and the Curious Case of NFTs

Sat, 13 Mar 2021 05:44:26 GMT

In this episode, the squad discusses KRA's demand for Ksh 73 million in taxes from Mobius Motors, what to expect in NMG"s stock after results announcements, what the Flutterwave unicorn means for African startups, and how NFT's could benefit digital creators.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 9: Stanbic Results, Expected Banking Financials, Expected Profit Warnings, Safaricom Interim Dividend and Impact of the Stimulus Package

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 12:10:33 GMT

Stanbic's income dropped by 18.6% to Ksh 5.2 billion with a notable reduction in net interest income, which fell by 4.8% while loan loss provisions rose by 54% following reliefs and restructured due to COVID-19. However, the bank grew its deposits, loans and investments. There are 18 profit warnings, with more expected to come.

The banking sector is expected to be more resilient compared to other sectors, despite more profit warnings from the sector.
Safaricom declined by 3.7%, a profit-taking by investors given the recent gains. Investors a taking a wait and see approach given the expected Ethiopian licence.
The recently passed US Stimulus package is likely to lead to asset price inflation.

Eva Mattheeussen on How the Pandemic is Affecting Women Differently, and Having More Women on Boards

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 06:00:00 GMT

Eva Mattheeussen, HR Head at DHL Global Forwarding MEA and Global Project Lead of 'Women at DHL Global Forwarding talks about how the COVID-19 Pandemic has affected women differently in their careers, the journey to achieving 1 out of 3 women in the leadership Boards, the Women in DHL initiative and where she imagines gender diversity in 5 years. She also shares her experiences on internal networks, partnerships and mentorship is opening more opportunities for women.

We Are Curious EP 8| Kenya's Lower Business Confidence, Hurtful Minimum Taxes, Tanzania's Economic Growth and the Curious Case of Square and Jay Z

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 08:43:31 GMT

In this episode, the squad analyzes the impact of the Minimum taxes on manufacturers and startups, takes stock of the lowering business confidence in the country and explains why Tanzania's economy outgrew peers in the EAC in 2020. It also looks at what Google's new privacy push means for advertisers and how Square is leveraging creators in the new Tidal Acquisition.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 8: EAPC, KPLC and Unga Financials, A Net Selling Position by Foreign Investors, What to Expect from Banks Results and The Inflation

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 11:29:13 GMT

Kenya Power's rising financial costs are expected to be higher in FY2021. Its operating expenses for FY2020 ate up all its gross profit.

We are still watching how EAPC's restructuring will mean for the company but hopes are low whereas there is hope for the long term prospects for Unga Limited despite blows from higher commodity prices and high finance costs. Foreign investors are taking a net selling position on counters such as KCB and Equity, awaiting the financials in March following the impact of COVID-19 on Non-Performing Loans.

We Are Curious EP 7| The NMG Buyback, Spotify's Debut in Kenya, the Australian Media Law and the Curious Case of the Coinbase Direct Listing

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 04:22:01 GMT

In this episode, the squad discusses KenGen, KPLC and Unga Limited's results and discusses what the Nation Media Group 10% ordinary share buyback means for investors. NMG's paywalled platform is still in its early stages, with a lot of room to grow to offer sustainable revenue. The Bank of Ghana's sandbox will benefit startups in the country, opening a window for players in the blockchain, and by extension, cryptocurrency to test innovations. There are high hopes for the Coinbase Direct Listing, which is expected to attract investors, given it will be the only listed crypto platform. However, the share faces volatility risks from bitcoin price fluctuations.

Equiti CEO Brian Myers on the Status of Financial Literacy in Africa, Understanding Interest and Navigating Borrowing

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 10:02:40 GMT

The crux of financial literacy in Kenya and Africa will be when organizations use the widespread internet and mobile penetration to educate young people on creating financial freedom, understanding taxes and fees and exploring different avenues of investment. Brian Myers and Hisa CEO Eric Asuma talk about harnessing social media to grow financial literacy, navigating high risk and high return investments and handling compound interest and debt.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 7: Rising Equity Turnover, EABL's Slight Decline, BAT Gains and Dividends, and Kenya Re Hold Recommendations.

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 10:39:47 GMT

In this episode, Hisa Chief Financial Analyst Felix Ochieng discusses the performance of different Indices, global markets, and top counters for the previous week. Equity turnover rose by 21.69%, with KSh 2.47 billion worth of stock traded last week, while the bond market fell by 22.1% with KSh 17.37 billion worth of bonds traded. NASI gained about 0.93%, closing the week at 165.55 bp, the all-share index fell by 0.07%, closing at 1888 bp, while the NSE 25 gained by 0.73%, closing at 3638.57 bp. The gains in NSE 25 and NASI is because of activity, such as declines in EABL by 2.29% due to upward market correction.

Highlights

BAT's gained 14.06% following the 2020 results and the 34.3% YoY increase in dividend
Sameer topped the gainers list, gaining 20% in price activity, closing at Ksh 3.60.
NBV YTD gains stand at 8.4%, declining 10% last week.
Gold faced downward pressure because of gains in counters like Bitcoin.
Genghis and Faida Investment maintains its long term hold on Kenya Re.

We Are Curious EP 6| COVID-19 Vaccine, Africans Appointed to Lead Global Organizations, Brain Drain, Crypto Acceptance and the Curious Case of Tidjane Thiam

Sat, 20 Feb 2021 08:47:22 GMT

In this episode, the squad and guests talk about the ongoing vaccine roll out in Africa and how governments tackled the pandemic from different fronts, what it means to have Africans leading multilateral bodies, the concept of brain drain in the continent, the averseness of African governments towards cryptocurrencies at a time where corporates are accepting it as an asset class and SPACs.

Derivatives | Episode Two: Types of Derivatives Contracts, The Difference Between Equities and Derivatives, and Making Money Through Derivatives

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 07:02:02 GMT

In this episode, Rufus Gitau discusses the different type of derivatives including forward contracts, futures, options, and swap contracts. Rufus points out the difference between trading derivatives and equities, and how individuals can make money through derivatives through the two-way market, when the market goes up or down.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 6: Safaricom Ksh 39 All-time High, Gains in the EABL and NSE Indices and Last Week's Bond Tap Sale

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 08:35:14 GMT

Int his Episode, Chief Financial Analyst Felix Ochieng discusses the Safaricom rally which saw the share hitting Ksh 39, a new all-time high, after the interim dividend announcement. The NSE all share index had a good week, gaining 4.4% in activity. NSE 20 and NSE 25 were also up gaining 1.28% and 3.87% respectively. The uptick in indices follows global trends where markets which had taken a toll are waking up. KCB, Equity and Safaricom all trading within the Ksh 35-40 range.

We are likely to see more price action on the positive edge on markets as we approach the earning period for most counters.

Volatility on global markets is pushing activity in emerging markets, hence the uptick in foreign activity locally.

Faida issued a hold recommendation while Genghis Capital issued a buy recommendation for Kenya Re.

What Do you Need to Know About Derivatives?

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 10:19:40 GMT

NSE Derivatives Risk Manager Geoffrey Radier talks to the Hisa team on the New NSE Derivatives, the nature of the derivative contracts and the value of derivatives compared other asset classes. Geoffrey expounds the relationship between a derivative and its underlying asset what you need to trade derivatives. He also explains why some prefer buying a derivative contract and a stock of the same stock.

We Are Curious Episode 5: The Nigerian Crypto Ban, KenGen Goodies, Rebecca Miano, Bitcoin and The Curious Case of Kenya Power

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:59:52 GMT

In this episode, the squad talks about Central Bank of Nigeria's Crypto Ban and how African countries need to take a friendlier stance on crypto. We also discuss KenGen's dividends and Rebecca Miano's leadership and Kenya Power's entry into the solar power space.

Weekly Markets Update | EP 5: The NSE Indices, Appetite for Safaricom and the BOC-Cabarcid Buyout

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 10:56:40 GMT

The NSE turnover will continue to increase driven by foreign investment. The new broker connectivity network will improve how fast trades are settled locally which is positive to the market and the NSE. EABL was the top gainer week-on-week. EABL rallied because of corporate investors after the price release, driven by a buying rush after price drop because of its strong fundamentals. The Carbacid-BOC buyout will form a significant player in East and Central Africa but faces numerous hurdles. The coming week will come with significant activity in the banking sector as results come out. Earnings are expected to be lower, but the worst is behind us, with the hope of recovery.

Suprisingly Ingenious: Status of Kenya of Trade Between Kenya and Austria. A Conversation with Edith Predorf, Commercial Counsellor of Austria to Eastern Africa.

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 09:28:08 GMT

Edith Predorf talks about the different ways to promote trade between Kenya and Austria, how startups in Kenya can benefit from Austrian markets, and improving visibility of business in both countries.

Weekly Markets Update | Ep 4 : KenGen's Rally, Shilling's Perfomance Amidst Global Volatility, and EABL's Performance

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 10:18:23 GMT

KenGen's results and dividends drove its rally. The shilling is likely to come down during the week, driven by volatility in global markets which might increase foreign inflow in our markets. Safaricom was the top mover last week. However, we are waiting to see the effect of Citi's degrading on the stock due to its regulatory risk. Investor interest in the banking sector is likely to peek as the earnings session start.

We Are Curious | Episode 4: Democratizing Investment, Attracting Retail Investors on the NSE and the Curious Case of GameStop

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 19:45:13 GMT

In this episode, the squad explores the battle between WallStreetBets and Wallstreet Giants, what it takes to attract retail and millennial investors on the Nairobi stock exchange and how GameStop is a case of decentralizing investment likely to replicate itself.

MediaPal CEO Maurice Juma on Reaching Ad Audiences Through Data Driven Advanced Targeting

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 12:52:34 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Eric Asuma talks to MediaPal CEO Maurice Juma on the status of Adtech in Kenya, MediaPal's expansion plans to the rest of the continent, the MediaPal partnership with Twitter, and how programmatic advertising is changing the Adspace.

Peer-to-Peer Insurance Would Bring Transparency and Efficiency Needed in the Local Insurance Space

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 13:53:09 GMT

Mwakaneno talks to insurance experts from Zamara and AiCare on insurance lines that would benefit from Peer-to-Peer Insurance models in Kenya, successes and learnings from P2P insurance implementations globally and how tech can support and improve the delivery of P2P insurance models in Kenya.

KAM CEO Phyllis Wakiaga on Rising to Power, Supporting Women in Manufacturing and Recognizing the Achievements of Women

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 11:56:51 GMT

Kenya Association of Manufacturers CEO Phyllis Wakiaga talks to Ally Mwakaneno on journey of becoming the Associations' CEO, promoting women businesses in the manufacturing sector and the importance of recognizing the achievements of women.

Weekly Markets Update EP 3: Analysis of Kenya's Energy and Insurance Sectors, and How Biden's Tax Policies will Affect Global Markets.

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 10:55:07 GMT

Safaricom could be a case of profit-taking in the short term, while its long term prospect looks good, considering its previous performance over time and Ethiopian expansion. Kenya's energy segment is ambivalent, with optimism towards given KenGen's plans of selling directly to consumers. On the other hand, there are dim prospects of KPLC, which awaits tariff reviews and suffers huge debt.

Globally, Biden's new tax policies are likely to affect foreign companies' income in the US, which could bring back more foreign players in the foreign market. We are looking forward to a number of companies releasing their results this week.

We Are Curious Episode 3: The Oversubscribed Infrastructure Bond, Cleantech and The Curious Case of India's Sensex

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 17:07:59 GMT

In this episode, the Kenyan Wallstreet Squad Discussed :

The local and regional market.
The oversubscribed infrastructure bond.
Kenya's debt service deferment.
Cleantech and EVs.
BTC
BlackRock accepting Bitcoin in two funds
Biden's Inaguration on markets.

Koa Co-Founder Delila Kidanu on Leveraging User Behavior to Promote Savings Culture in Kenya

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 12:40:50 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to KOA co-founder Delila Kidanu on Kenya's savings culture and challenges in the regional savings space. Delila gives her insights on creating savings products for digital natives and how Koa promotes effortless saving in Kenya and Africa.

Weekly Markets Update| EP 2 : Bamburi Cement Prospects, and the Impact of Biden's Inauguration on Global Markets.

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 08:06:27 GMT

Inhouse Chief Financial Analyst Felix Ochieng talks to Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson on what to expect in this week's markets, including Safaricom's bullish prospects until March, gains in Bamburi Cement shares which had earlier declines because of COVID-19 and its performance. They also discuss opportunities in the construction industry, the impact of foreigners exiting KCB and how markets will react after Biden's inauguration.

We Are Curious Episode Two: Funding in Africa's Startups, Safaricom Rally, Censorship, and the Curious Case of Donald Trump

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 17:11:58 GMT

In this episode, the squad discusses
1. Briter Bridges Funding Report on startups in Africa
2. Safaricom bull run which hit an all-time high and its future
3. Big Tech censorship of Trump
4. Censorship by governments, case in point Uganda.

Weekly Markets Update| Episode 1 : The Dow Touched an All Time High and Oversubscribed Local Bond Markets

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 14:37:50 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Founder Eric Asuma and Chief Financial Analyst Felix talk about investor long term focus in the global markets, rising profit warnings in Kenyan companies and Safaricom's outlook for 2021.

How the COVID-19 Vaccine will Shape Global Markets, Stimulus Package, the Growing Role of Crypto and Currencies to Watch

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:00:00 GMT

Pepperstone Head of Research Chris Weston talks about how the COVID-19 Vaccine will speed up the service industry and drive economic recovery in 2021, how Biden's stimulus will repair the US labour market, and the need for education in Cryptocurrency. Chris shares some of the institutional adoptions of Cryptocurrency, the need for education and currencies to watch in the year.

Diversity at Board Level Should Mirror Diversity at Stakeholder Level - Catherine Musakali

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 11:09:50 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Founder Eric Asuma talks to Catherine Musakali, Founding Member at Dorion Associates and Advocate of the High Court on building the capacity of women for board positions, diversity and returns to stakeholders, promoting different voices in company leadership. Catherine also talks about how to recognize and are the achievements of women, and inspire the younger generations.

We Are Curious Episode One | Episode One: of the Bullish Crypto run, Digital Taxes, AfCFTA, and Elon Musk.

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:41:41 GMT

Ally, Eric and Eric sit at a table over wine and talk all things Africa, tech, business, economics and the world.

Storytelling Gives Consumer Influence on How to Consume a Product - Addlestone Founder Kendi Perpetual.

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:31:33 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to Addlestone PR Founder and CEO Kendi Perpetual on the importance of storytelling for brands, how COVID-19 has changed the public relations, leveraging tech for public relations and innovations for low-cost public relations communication in Africa.

Rina Hicks, Faida Investments Director on Investing During a Crisis and Asset Classes to Watch in 2021

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Founder Eric Asuma talks to Money Wise Founder and Faida Investments Director Rina Hicks, on the status of savings and investment in Kenya, how to invest at a time of crisis, mistakes when making investment decisions, picking out between different investment instruments, and some of the red flags investors can watch out for.

Leila Fourie, CEO, JSE – Growing Investor Confidence and Developing Pan African Investment

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 09:14:49 GMT

Our Chief Financial Analyst Felix Ochieng talks to Johannesburg Stock Exchange CEO Leila Fourie on promoting trust in exchanges, the challenges faced in running exchanges, developing avenues for Pan African investment, promoting sustainable development, and plans for the JSE to introduce a private market in the infrastructure and SME space as exchanges globally recover from the Coronavirus.

How ISO Certifications and Standards offer Competitive Advantage and Unique Selling Points to Businesses

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 09:12:11 GMT

Michael Koech, Manager responsible for Climate and Environmental Management at Safaricom, talks to Mwakaneno on how Safaricom's recent ISO Certifications help the company deliver quality services to its customers and protect the different products' reputation and how the ISO certifications translate to better product experience through fostering continuous improvement.

Telematics | Episode 2: Adopting Pay per Kilometer and Pay When You Drive in Motor Insurance

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno talks to AI Care CEO Arthur Mulwa on how pay per kilometre and Pay when you drive will cut claims for insurers, and premiums for clients, using Ai algorithms to detect accidents will automated ambulance dispatch and improve road safety.

Artificial Intelligence |Episode 3 : Promoting Symbiotic Relationships Between Humans and AIs

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 06:39:14 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to Caroline Gorski, Global Director at R² Data Labs on how to achieve a symbitoic relationship between humans and AI, attaining unsupervised learning and promoting global representation towards advancing AI

The Offshore Investor | Episode 3 - Channels to Invest in Offshore Stocks

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 13:22:45 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno talks to Bricklane Capital LLP Managing Partner Ibrahim Karuthiru on the various platforms to invest in offshore stocks, and the difference between managed accounts and individual accounts.

Equiti Capital CEO Brian Myers Talks Online Trading in Africa Amid Coronavirus

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 19:51:49 GMT

In this episode of the Kenyan Wallstreet Podcast, Eric Asuma from Kenyan Wallstreet chats with Brian Myers, who is CEO of Equiti Capital, which is part of the FCA regulated arm of global FX and CFDs brokerage Equiti Group.

In February 2018 the Equiti Group, through its Kenyan subsidiary EGM Securities, became the first online forex broker to receive a license from Kenya's Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and opened a full-service regional office in Nairobi, Kenya in July 2018, trading as FX Pesa.

Key highlights from this podcast;

- How the virus changed the world of financial markets

- Brian Myer's top trades for 2020

- 2020 Recap & how covid accelerated online trading in Africa

- Financial literacy

- Exciting things that Equiti has in store in 2021 including expansion into South Africa

- Brian's top trades that he will be keenly watching in 2021

A CRB chat with Carma's Ted Martynov

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:56:08 GMT

In Kenya and Nigeria, digital lenders have important decisions to make with very little data. So one of the things CARMA does is to convince these lenders to contribute their own data to its database. This way, all the lenders in a country can easily

Banking Industry Report Sets Roadmap Towards Inclusive Financial Services For PWD

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 14:44:21 GMT

The Kenya banking sector has today reaffirmed its commitment to enhance service delivery for Persons living With Disabilities (PWDs) as part of its long- term strategic objective to entrench financial services across the country. This follows the official release of the Persons With Disabilities (PWD) Pilot Project Report by the Central Bank of Kenya Governor, Dr. Patrick Njoroge, today during a virtual event that brought together banking industry players and partners.

Telematics | Episode 1 : Using Telematics to Customize Motor Insurance Premiums and Cutting Fraud

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 08:00:27 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno talks to AI Care CEO Arthur Mulwa on how AI Care telematics is reducing fraud and therefore losses in motor insurance, using telematics to customize pricing and improving accident response time using automated systems.

A Deep Dive Into IOT Solar Outdoor Workstations and how They Offer Alternative Workspaces in Rural Areas

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Africa's talent pool has yet again produced an innovation, Solar Workstations. Join Nyawira Thairu whose curiosity on Twitter landed her on Solar Pocha's innovation which utilizes one of Africa's rich resources, solar, to power a workspace of 8-10 people in an open space. The workspace is also creatively designed to be wheelchair accessible making it all-inclusive.

A Chat with GM Mövenpick Michael Flint on Partnership with Hennessy

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 14:00:00 GMT

Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi has partnered with the world's leading cognac maker, Hennessy to mark the beginning of the festive season at the Hotel's Kijani restaurant in an event to also celebrate and reflect on the unpredictable year 2020 has been. The collaboration with Hennessy is much anticipated as it will majorly feature new ways to make cocktails -a much-needed kind of culinary experience to not only entertain guests but also have them end the year in style. Movenpick on its side is also set to entertain guests with a series of feasts as the festive season kicks in, with celebrations such as the corporate end of year parties and Christmas eve celebrations at its unique one of a kind rooftop restaurant, The View. Other feasts on the line up to entertain guests include Christmas day brunch and New year's eve party

Re-imagining Business Operations through Behavioural Economics

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 08:06:25 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Resident Economist Prince Muraguri talks to Nate Peterson, Vice President of Partnerships at the Busara Center for Behavioral Economics on how businesses can leverage on behavioural economics to better understand the changing customer experience and customer journey in the COVID-19 era.

The Offshore Investor | Episode 2 - The Difference Between Investing Individually and Investing Through a Brokerage Firm

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 07:00:00 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to Bricklane Capital Managing Partner Ibrahim Karuthiru on whether on the differences between managing an investment directly and using a stockbroker, the pitfalls of savings and how investment portfolios reflect their owners.

The Offshore Investor | Episode 1 - Offshore Markets Provide Wider Variety of Investments, Better Returns.

Sat, 14 Nov 2020 10:24:31 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to Ibrahim Roy Karuthiru, Managing Partner at Bricklane Capital LLP on where to start if you want to invest offshore, how the domestic market compares to offshore markets, and the requirements for opening an offshore investment account.

Artificial Intelligence | Episode 2 Part 3 : How Humans Should Treat AI and Striking Balance Between AI Dependence and Human Ingenuity

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 07:39:24 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to Caroline Gorski, Global Director of R² Data Labs on how human beings should treat AI, balancing human ingenuity and creativity with the use of AI and potential areas of AI application in the African continent.

Artificial Intelligence | Episode 2 Part 1 : Fairness is Key in Building a Sound AI Ethics Approach

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 15:30:55 GMT

Why is it important to create a framework of AI ethics to guide AI decisions? Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to Caroline Gorski, Global Director of R² Data Labs on how to ensure fairness in Artificial Intelligences through mitigating possible biases in AI outcomes based on the transparency of data and models.

Artificial Intelligence | Episode 2 Part 2 : Bias in AI systems and how to prevent Algorithmic drift in AI systems.

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 12:01:51 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to Caroline Gorski, Global Director of R² Data Labs on the importance of promoting trustworthy Artificial Intelligence to offer assurance that self-taught algorithms behave as should throughout the life of an AI. Caroline further answers the question of how to prevent Algorithmic drift in the AIs.

A Podcast Interview with MultiChoice Talent Factory Director Njoki Muhoho on Investing in Local Film Talent, and Exporting Kenyan Films to International Audiences

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 08:37:57 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno talks to MultiChoice Talent Factory Director and 3 times Juror at International Emmy Awards Njoki Muhoho on what Multichoice and Kenya Film Commission (KFC) partnerships are doing to improve local talent in the film industry, the impact of investments in local film talent, why Kenyan films are missing out on international awards, and the future of the Kenyan film industry.

Interview with Facebook's Mercy Ndegwa on Facebook Marketplace Launch in Kenya and Ethiopia.

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 09:28:01 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to Mercy Ndegwa, Head of Public Policy, East and Horn of Africa at Facebook about the Facebook Marketplace, a C2C platform that allows individuals to discover, buy and sell goods online. Ally and Mercy discuss its benefits to small businesses in Kenya and Ethiopia, promoting trust on online shopping platforms and the possibility of partnering with local payments players with the platform.

#CEOChat with NCBA Group MD John Gachora

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:39:00 GMT

The Kenya Bankers Association #CEOCHAT forum kicked off early Friday morning under the theme Banking Industry Growth and Consolidation Trends Amid Heightened Uncertainty. My Chat with a Bank CEO is a forum by Kenya Bankers Association where Bank CEOs engage social media users on topical issues in the banking industry with today's forum hosting NCBA Group CEO John Gachora.

A Chat with IFC's Anne Kabugi on Gender Equality in Financial Services

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:42:14 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Wandiri Gitogo talks to Anne Kabugi, IFC's Regional Gender Lead in Africa on the status of Gender Equality in top leadership in Kenya's financial services, barriers to women businesses and what the IFC is doing to support female entrepreneurs.

DTB Group CEO Nasim Devji Speech at the Africa Women In Finance Conference

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 13:22:10 GMT

Group CEO and Managing Director at Diamond Trust Bank Nasim Devji Remarks at the Virtual Leading Women in Banking & Finance Conference on 16th October 2020. In this podcast;

- Nasim Devji shares her remarkable story of how she group up in Tanzania before going for studies in the UK

- Her career journey as she rose up to the ranks to become the CEO of DTB

- Her top tips to help women navigate the workplace

- How the pandemic has affected the Banking Industry and what the future looks like

Citi Kenya CEO Martin Mugambi and 4G Capital CEO Wayne Henessy Discuss a $3 Million Loan to Boost Working Capital for Small Businesses in Kenya

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 15:58:17 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet CTO Eric Jackson talks to the two CEOs on a recent $3 million loan for 25,000 small businesses in Kenya, how data analytics is supporting leading towards retailers in fast-moving goods, and partnerships, and providing customer-centric solutions through partnerships.

Interview with Rekha Mhango - Deputy Governor Bank of Zambia

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 12:43:12 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Wandiri Gitogo speaks to Rekha Mhango, Deputy Governor Bank of Zambia ahead of the Africa Regional e-Conference for Leading Women in Banking and Finance. Register for the event: africaleadingwomen.com

IMF Director Dr. Nancy Onyango on Best Practices for Equality, Systemic Challenges to Gender Equality, Highlighting Career Achievements and Books She Enjoys.

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 05:16:39 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno engages Dr. Nancy Onyango, Director, Office of Internal Audit and Inspection at the IMF on global best practices for gender equality, books that she enjoys, the importance of highlighting impact and achievements, the flaws of gender neutrality and how societal norms fuel bias.

Equity Group Director Mary Wamae on Gender Equality on Boards and How Businesses can Thrive in a Crisis

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 07:50:14 GMT

The Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to Equity Group Holdings Director for Subsidiaries Mary Wamae on her experience as a female Director, balancing family roles, social life and careers, and how businesses take advantage of opportunities that come in crises.

Vision Boards are Key to Achieving Goals - A Podcast with Vision Board Coach and Hair Expo Founder Emily Kinuthia

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 06:14:49 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Mwakaneno Gakweli talks to Vision Board Coach, Brand Consultant and Entrepreneur Emily Kinuthia on why having a visual representation of goals works better than writing them down, how to create a vision board and its importance.

Emotions Drive Behavior- A Chat with Mucha Mlingo

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 08:23:28 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Wandiri Gitogo chats with Emotional Intelligence Coach Mucha Mlingo ahead of the Kenya Bankers Association e-conference. Register for the conference go to africaleadingwomen.com

Liquid Telecom Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer on How ISPs, Edtechs and Schools are Enhancing E-learning During the Pandemic

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 11:49:20 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno and Liquid Telecom's Ben Roberts discuss the status e-learning during COVID-19, partnerships between Schools Edtechs and ISPs and the future of e-learning after the pandemic.

Family Bank CEO Rebecca Mbithi- Personalized Services To Drive Women Inclusion In Financial Services

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 11:19:36 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Wandiri Gitogo speaks to Rebecca Mbithi ahead of the Leading Women In Finance e-conference. To register for the conference go to africaleadingwomen.com

The Psychology of Money by Abojani

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 13:52:46 GMT

Kenyan journalist Sharon Momanyi Chats with Morgan Housel, a partner at Collaborative Fund and a former columnist at The Motley Fool and The Wall Street Journal. Author of the book The Psychology of Money. Podcast by Abojani.

MasterCard to Power Digital Economy - A chat with Gaurang Shah Senior Vice President Digital Payment

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 15:12:50 GMT

A chat with Gaurang Shah Senior Vice President Digital Payments & Labs, MEA, Mastercard.

Engage Kenya Curator Agatha Juma "Women Leadership Requires Owning Your Story"

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 11:28:20 GMT

Interview with Agatha Juma ahead of the Africa Regional Leading Women in Finance and Banking by The Kenya Bankers Association. Ms Agatha Juma is an experienced coach and trainer on communication and storytelling for business. Visit https://www.africaleadingwomen.com/ for more information about the conference.

Podcast Interview with Renaissance Capital Economists: Charles Robertson & Yvonne Mhango

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 11:35:32 GMT

In this episode of the Kenyan Wallstreet Podcast, our Resident Economist Prince Muraguri holds an insightful discussion with two economists from Renaissance Capital: Charles Robertson(Global Chief Economist) and Yvonne Mhango (Head of Research - Sub-Saharan Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa Economist).

In this episode, you'll discover: 03:50: Africa has been less vulnerable to COVID-19 due to age dynamics.

08:28: East African countries perform well in the Renaissance Capital's composite resilience score ranking.

12:41: Higher bond yields in emerging economies in the new decade will likely attract investors to emerging markets.

17:10: Kenya's GDP projected to grow at 1.5%.

20:15: The link between fertility rates and domestic borrowing rates.

26:14: Kenya's trade balance dynamics.

29:37:The U.S. Presidential election and the KSH/USD exchange rate.

33:25: More on the Kenyan Shilling - is it misaligned from fair value?

35:43: Key take-aways from the macro panel discussion at the 6th Annual Virtual East Africa Investor Conference.

Notes

Learn more about Renaissance Capital on their website

Connect with Charles Robertson on Twitter

Connect with Yvonne Mhango on Twitter

Artificial Intelligence | Episode 1 : What is AI? Is Africa ready for AI?

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 06:07:10 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's CTO Eric Jackson hosts the Global Director at Rolls-Royce's R2 Data Labs, Caroline Gorski, as they explore the topic of Artificial Intelligence. What is Artificial Intelligence? And what learning can we take from over 30 years of power engines monitoring at Rolls-Royce to help solve problems during a Global Pandemic? They also explore how Africa can take advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Stay tuned for more episodes on AI.

Interview with Rose Ogega; MD Bloom Consultancy, on Women Rising in Leadership

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 07:35:51 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Senior Editor Miriam Wangui speaks to Rose Ogega on the status of women in leadership in Kenya, uplifting young women, female role models, leadership succession in Kenyan companies and corporate conflict resolution during remote working.

Stanbic Bank Kenya CEO Charles Mudiwa on How the bank is supporting women Entrepreneurs

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 20:36:20 GMT

Interview with Stanbic Bank Kenya CEO Charles Mudiwa ahead of the Africa Regional Leading Women in Finance and Banking by The Kenya Bankers Association. Visit https://www.africaleadingwomen.com/ for more information about the conference.

KBA's Public Affairs Director Nuru Mugambi on Gender Equality in Kenya's Finance Space

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 08:39:28 GMT

Ally Mwakaneno talks to KBA's Public Affairs Director Nuru Mugambi on the status of gender equality in leadership in Kenya's Banking space. Nuru also shares the immense benefits that banks and other financial institutions accrue from having more women in boards. She closes with advice to young women who want to scale the corporate career ladder.

Liquid Telecom CDO David Behr on Cybersecurity During COVID-19

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 13:08:40 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno talks to Liquid Telecom Chief Digital Officer David Behr on the status of cybersecurity in Africa, and how COVID-19 has accelerated threats to companies as people continue to work from home and the future of cybersecurity

Lindelwa Farisani, Head of Equity Advisory Sales at UBS South Africa on How to Promote Gender Inclusive Leadership

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 15:28:48 GMT

A conversation between Kenyan Wallstreet's Ally Mwakaneno and Lindelwa Farisani, Head of Equity Advisory Sales at UBS South Africa and Eisenhower Fellow on cultural and policy changes necessary to promote a gender-inclusive leadership in companies.

Women in the Cryptocurrency Space

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 06:46:58 GMT

In this podcast, we sit with Yvonne Kagondu, the Kenya Community Coordinator at Paxful. She sheds light on how women can plug into the cryptocurrency space, and career opportunities available for them in this field.

Interview With Hedwige Nuyens, MD at the International Banking Federation, UK on Promoting Gender Diversity in Leadership

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 14:17:14 GMT

Interview With Hedwige Nuyens, MD at the International Banking Federation, UK on Promoting Gender Diversity in Leadership and Reducing the Economic Gender Gap.

Kenya Bankers CEO Habil Olaka on the benefits of promoting gender diversity in leadership

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:48:34 GMT

Interview with Kenya Bankers Association CEO Dr Habil Olaka ahead of the upcoming Africa the Africa Regional e-Conference for Leading Women in Banking and Finance on 15th and 16th October 2020. For more information about the e-conference, please visit https://www.africaleadingwomen.com/

Africa Regional e-Conference for Leading Women in Banking and Finance Panelist Interview: Featuring Dr. Diane Karusisi - CEO, Bank of Kigali

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 13:21:08 GMT

In this episode, we sit with Dr. Diane Karusisi, the CEO of the Bank of Kigali. Dr. Diane will be one of the panelists participating in the Africa Regional e-Conference for Leading Women in Banking and Finance organized by the Kenya Bankers Association and will take place on the 15th and 16th October, 2020. Register here: https://www.africaleadingwomen.com/

Use Cases of Bitcoin in Africa

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 09:43:26 GMT

In this podcast, we had an interview with Modibe Matsepane, the Community Coordinator for Africa at Paxful. Modibe shared his insights on the use cases of Bitcoin that are most suited for the African continent.

Ndovu Investments Founder on Digital Investments

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 04:11:54 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Business Journalist Ally Mwakaneno Chats with Ndovu Investment Founder Radhika Bachu on digital investment and how Robo-advisory will change the retail investment scene in Africa.

Paxful CEO Ray Youssef On The Future Of Peer-To-Peer (P2P) Bitcoin Marketplaces In Africa

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 07:44:43 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet resident Economist Prince Muraguri speaks to Paxful CEO Ray Youssef

Podcast: Interview with AMCHAM CEO on What the FTA Means for Kenya

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 11:21:26 GMT

Interview with Maxwell Okello, AmCham CEO

Effects of COVID-19 on Kenya's Credit Market

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 11:31:15 GMT

Kenyan Wallstreet Business Dev Lead Erick Asuma Chats with Samuel Tayengwa, TransUnion Africa Product Director

Podcast: Press Release of Monetary Policy Committee held on 25th June

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 04:25:01 GMT

The Monetary Policy Committee of the Central Bank of Kenya met on June 25th to discuss the stance of the monetary policy in Kenya. This podcast reads out the official press release of the MPC Statement

Finance Bill 2020 Podcast with PWC Experts

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 06:17:56 GMT

In this podcast, we had an insightful discussion with four experts from PWC Kenya to unpack the 2020 Finance Bill. We held a multi-faceted discussion around the bill and conversed about the proposals contained therein. The panelists from PWC Kenya included Titus Mukora, Joseph Githaiga, Maurice Mwaniki and Edna Gitachu. The podcast was hosted by our resident economist Prince Muraguri.

FX Pesa Global Markets Weekly Outlook

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 16:33:27 GMT

In this episode, Gaurav Kashyap and Mark Lee discuss the week that was and give projections for the next week.

Interview with Nendo Founder Mark Kaigwa

Sat, 30 May 2020 13:30:19 GMT

Nendo, a digital growth consultancy, has released a report on the Impact of COVID-19 on consumers and corporates in Kenya. The report covered sectors including Retail, Financial services and payments, Connectivity, Education, Entertainment, Food and supplies, mobility, communications, healthcare and Income generation.

Takeaways of the Monetary Policy Committee Meeting

Thu, 28 May 2020 06:31:43 GMT

On Wednesday 27th May, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Kenya had a meeting to go over the monetary policy stance. This podcast goes over the press release of the Monetary Policy Committee meeting to highlight the key communications contained therein.

#CEOChat; Stanbic Kenya CEO Charles Mudiwa

Tue, 26 May 2020 05:46:25 GMT

Stanbic Kenya CEO Charles Mudiwa shares insights

#CEOChat; Citi CEO Martin Mugambi Interview

Fri, 15 May 2020 06:27:15 GMT

A chat with Citi CEO Martin Mugambi

Trading 101 Podcast: The Fundamentals of Stock Trading in Kenya

Fri, 15 May 2020 03:00:00 GMT

In this podcast, the Kenyan Wallstreet Resident Economist sat down with Felix Ochieng, an investment banker and stocks trader.

Islamic Finance Podcast; What Makes an Investment Islamically Acceptable?

Thu, 14 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

In Episode 3 of the Islamic Finance Podcast Series, Ali Mohammed delves into the necessary criteria that need to be fulfilled in order to make an investment Islamically acceptable.

EGM Global Markets Review; Turkish Lira Crisis, US China Tensions Rise

Tue, 12 May 2020 07:53:32 GMT

Turkish Lira Crisis, US China Tensions Rise

Key Takeaways from The World Bank Kenya Economic Update

Tue, 05 May 2020 06:25:33 GMT

In the recently released Kenya Economic Update, the World Bank reported that Kenya's Gross Domestic Product growth rate will shrink to 1.5 percent. In this podcast, our resident economist, Prince Muraguri, has constructed a summary of the Kenya Economic Update and discussed some of its key highlights

Islamic Finance Episode 2: Common Misconceptions About Islamic Finance

Fri, 01 May 2020 22:08:08 GMT

In Episode 2 of the Islamic Finance podcast series, Ali Mohammed tackles some of the most common misconceptions that people hold regarding Islamic Finance.

Interview with Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa & CFO Sateesh Kamath

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 11:56:40 GMT

The interview happens after Safaricom released 2019/2020 full year financials

Islamic Finance Podcast Series with Ali Mohamed Episode 1

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 23:21:22 GMT

Mohamed is the lead consultant at Kasada group, part of Qatar Investment Authority and ACCOR and a member of the incorporation committee of Power Bank

What do negative US oil prices mean? FX Pesa Global Markets Podcast

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 15:16:46 GMT

On this Episode, Equiti Global Analysts Gaurav Kashyap and Mark Lee discuss the recent negative oil price and give projections for the week

OPEC+ makes historic Oil cuts and the impact on the crude prices Equiti Global Markets Podcast

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 05:55:44 GMT

On this episode Gaurav and Mark discuss the recent OPEC+ approval of oil cut by 9.7 million barrels per day and projections for the week

Global Markets Show First Sign of Stability: Podcast with Equiti Global's Gaurav Kashyap & Mark Lee

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 11:28:06 GMT

In this episode Gaurav and Mark give their projections of the week.

Interview with Copia CEO - Tim Steel on COVID19 impact on supply chain and e-commerce

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 06:58:10 GMT

Copia was built to bring regular Africans quality goods at low prices, regardless of their income level, access to technology or location

KCB-MPesa Users to Access KSh 30 Billion Kitty

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 09:19:07 GMT

The Bank and Safaricom will also open their doors to customers who had been blacklisted with the Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs) but have since cleared their loans.

How COVID-19 Sparked Russia vs Saudi Arabia Oil War - Equiti Analysts Gaurav Kashyap and Mark Lee

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 14:27:13 GMT

How COVID-19 sparked Russia vs Saudi Arabia Oil War. Equiti Group Ltd is the parent company of some of the most progressive FX and CFD brands and prime brokerage providers in the industry.

Central Banks Come to the Rescue of Global Markets-Equiti Global Analysts Gaurav Kashyap & Mark Lee

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:29:24 GMT

Equiti Group Ltd is the parent company of some of the most progressive FX and CFD brands and prime brokerage providers in the industry.

Interview with Fred Waswa- Group Chief Executive Officer, Octagon Africa

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 12:30:02 GMT

Octagon Africa recently partnered with Alexander Forbes in a retirement benefit plan that could see people in the informal sector take up pension

Interview with Jared Getenga,Chief Executive Officer Credit Information Sharing Association of Kenya

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 07:38:11 GMT

Credit Information Sharing (CIS) is a process where credit providers (such as banks, microfinance institutions, saccos, etc.) exchange information on their outstanding loans and advances through licensed Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs). The CRBs are licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya. Through CIS, a lenders accesses reports from the CRB which informs them about the repayment patterns of a borrower. In other markets, CIS is also referred to as Credit Referencing or Credit Reporting, among other terms. In Kenya, as per the Credit Reference Bureau Regulations 2013, commercial and microfinance banks are mandated to share information on their entire loan books, meaning both up to date and late (overdue) repayment details of a borrower are shared. This data is submitted electronically on a monthly basis to the CRBs.

CMA Licenses Derivatives Trading Members

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 07:02:23 GMT

NSE launched Derivatives market in July 2019

Kenya's Central Bank Introduces Mobile based bonds

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 03:03:22 GMT

roll out of CBK-TMD designed to facilitate investment in government securities

Interview with Wycliffe Shamiah, acting CMA CEO

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 13:18:58 GMT

Mr. Shamiah took over the mantle from Mr. Paul Muthaura on 1st Jan 2020

Barclays Launches Kenya's First Vertical Card as Transition to ABSA gains pace

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 17:19:17 GMT

Kenya's first vertical card launched by Barclays

Kenya's Acorn Green Bond Starts Trading at LSE

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 10:00:00 GMT

This development comes days after the bond, worth KSh4.3 billion, started trading at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE).

Kenya Secures £1.3B From UK in Investments Deals

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

The investments will focus on housing, finance, renewables and entrepreneurship

One Year Treasury bills Oversubscribed

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:12:38 GMT

The CBK received bids worth Ksh 39.77 Billion and accepted Ksh 36.8 Billion

Yen falls to Eight month low as US-China Ties improve

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 08:00:22 GMT

The yen has weakened 1.4% versus the dollar this year

Acorn Green Bond starts trading on NSE

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 05:53:56 GMT

Acorn green bond raised Ksh 4.3 Billion representing an 85% subscription

KQ set to receive cash boost from the government

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 18:03:11 GMT

The airline made a net loss of Ksh 8.5 billion in the first half of 2019

Kenya's Tourism Earnings hit Ksh 163.5 Billion

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 17:40:27 GMT

In 2019 the number of tourists hit 2.04 million compared to 2.02 million in 2018

Interview with Jerioth Mwaura on capitalizing on GIG economy to solve unemployment

Sat, 11 Jan 2020 06:44:59 GMT

Gig economy is an ecosystem where freelancing is the primary or at least a major source of income

KCB injects Ksh 5 billion into recently acquired National Bank

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 10:48:40 GMT

This is to meet capital adequacy thresholds

Africa Oil to Earn from Kenya's First Oil Shipment

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 07:39:35 GMT

An independent firm estimates Kenya's oil reserves at 766 million barrels

Kenya to Refinance its Commercial Debt

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 04:45:43 GMT

Public debt is expected to reach 6.7 trillion by the end of this year

Kisumu port ships First Oil Consignment to Uganda

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 17:20:15 GMT

The consignment contained 22 wagons loaded with 894,000 liters of diesel

SGR Loan Repayments to China to double to Ksh 71 Billion

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 12:22:31 GMT

Taxpayers will shoulder part of the 130% increase due to revenue shortfalls from the project

Absa strikes $497 Million Deal to Boost Lending in Africa

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 07:58:45 GMT

The guarantee will shield Absa against political risk and assist expand financing across seven African Nations

International Oil Prices Jump to Seven Month high

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 17:00:26 GMT

The price hike is as a result of US-Iran tension

Kenya's Stock Market ranked sub-saharan Africa's best performer in the past decade

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 12:10:14 GMT

The MSCI index improved by 12% in the period starting from 1st January 2010 to 31st December 2019

NCBA Boss Calls for Higher Capital Requirements for Banks

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 09:34:16 GMT

The CEO recommends raising minimum core capital base to Ksh 10 billion from the current 1 billion

The World's Biggest Free Trade Area to Launch in July

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 17:48:25 GMT

The Continental Free Trade Area will comprise of 53 African Countries with an estimated GDP of $2.5 Trillion

Port of Mombasa hits 1.4 Million Containers in 2019

Sat, 04 Jan 2020 03:49:49 GMT

In 2020 the port expects to handle 1.5 million Total Equivalent Units

Kenya's Q3 Economic Growth Declined to 5.1%

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 13:10:05 GMT

This is in comparison to the 5.6% quarterly growth recorded in the 1st and 2nd quarters of the year

Interview With EGM CEO Samuel Kiraka on the State of Kenya's Online Forex (FX) Trading

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 06:57:47 GMT

EGM Securities Ltd is Kenya's first Non-Dealing Online Forex Broker licensed and regulated by Kenya's Capital Markets Authority

December Inflation Rises to 5.82%

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 17:13:05 GMT

Food and Transport costs rose significantly between November and December

Barclays Futures Begin Trading at the NSE derivatives Market

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 11:15:49 GMT

This brings the number of Single stock futures traded to 6. Safaricom,KCB,Equity, EABL and BAT

KRA re-introduces Turnover Tax from 1st January 2020

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 09:59:49 GMT

This is in line with the Finance act 2019

A Discussion on The Affordable Housing Program with Haggith Jepkoech

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 13:02:36 GMT

The Affordable Housing Programme is an initiative by government as one of the pillars under the 'Big 4 Agenda' which ensures that low and middle income households have access to decent and affordable housing units. More Information at bomayangu.go.ke

A chat with KBL Managing Director, Jane Karuku after Safaricom Partners with KBL to Connect Coolers

Sat, 23 Nov 2019 02:45:40 GMT

The partnership will see the coolers connected with sensors, which leverage on the Internet of things (IoT), responsible for collecting and exchanging data.

Interview with Kamal Bhattacharya CEO & Co-Founder Mojochat

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 16:14:17 GMT

Mojochat is a service focused on helping people to acquire second languages.

A chat with Miriam Tuerk CEO at Clear Blue Technologies

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Clear Blue Technologies International, the Smart Off-Grid company, combines green energy with the proven advantages of communications and cloud technology to power and control off-grid lighting, security and mobile solutions.

Eaagads Appoints New Director

Sat, 16 Nov 2019 08:00:28 GMT

In line with this appointment, the company's board has also announced the resignation of Mr. Andrew Rowell as a director of the company.

Amazon To Set Up Edge Location in Kenya

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 09:48:05 GMT

The new addition will be Amazon's third location in Africa

First Phase of Affordable Houses to be Completed by December

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 09:47:01 GMT

The second phase of the project is expected to be completed in mid 2020 and the final phase will be completed by the end of next year.

Unilever Appoints Nils Andersen as the New Chairman

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 10:07:53 GMT

Nils Andersen has previously served as CEO at Maersk and Carlsberg

Equity Group's Q3 Profits hit Ksh 17.3 Billion

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 04:51:36 GMT

at market close 11th Nov 2019, Equity Group Holdings shares traded at Ksh 48.50

Stanlib to sell Fahari I-REIT to ICEA Lion

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 19:36:16 GMT

The deal is expected to be completed by 29th February 2020

Kenyan Banks Ease Credit Access to SMEs

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 19:33:57 GMT

The banks are using Stawi – a digital platform – to improve access to credit and improve SMEs businesses.