Weekly Investor Update (May-WeekTwo-2025)

Monday

Weekly Markets Pulse: BRVM Shines as Global Stock Markets Rally

Global stock markets rallied this week on strong tech earnings, improving U.S.-China trade sentiment, and resilient labor data in the U.SBRVM Composite Index (BRVM-CI) moved up 2.45 (0.85%) points to close at 289.52, representing a 1-week gain of 0.57%Despite lingering concerns over inflation and economic slowdown, markets are betting on diplomacy, tech strength, and labor resilience

Despite lingering concerns over inflation and economic slowdown, markets are betting on diplomacy, tech strength, and labor resilience. With central banks holding steady and trade optimism back on the table, investors are embracing risk once more. A strong U.S. labor market and improving tone in trade talks propelled the S&P 500 to a rare nine-day winning streak. Tech stocks led the charge, with investors doubling down on the AI-driven momentum behind Microsoft and Meta’s earnings. The UK’s flagship index surged this week, climbing to its highest level in months. Positive sentiment from global markets and a rebound in commodity stocks helped the FTSE 100 end the week above 8,590. This marks its strongest weekly performance in over a year. In Europe, optimism over China-U.S. trade talks and solid corporate earnings added fuel to the rally. In Asia, Taiwanese and Japanese markets led gains, while Shanghai was closed for a holiday.

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IFC, TLG Capital Launch $75M Fund to Support African SMEs

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and TLG Capital have reached the first close of a new $75 million private credit fund to support distressed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa.The fund, TLG Africa Growth Impact Fund II (AGIF II), will offer tailored financing to up to 20 SMEs struggling with existing debt. IFC is committing up to $20 million through its Distressed Asset Recovery Program (DARP), alongside capital from Swedfund, Norfund, Bpifrance, and the UK’s FCDO via its Manufacturing Africa initiative.AGIF II will work with local banks to deploy flexible capital to businesses in key sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and telecoms. TLG Capital says the fund will not only offer financial relief but also provide strategic guidance through partnerships with McKinsey, BDO, ESS, and Ndarama Works.

The AGIF II fund signals growing recognition that traditional financing tools are not enough to support Africa’s SMEs, especially in the wake of macroeconomic shocks. Roughly 25% of SME loans in Africa are under stress, reflecting a broader liquidity gap for businesses that are often underserved by banks or constrained by foreign exchange challenges. Private credit has emerged as a vital alternative. Funds like AGIF II fill a financing gap between bank loans and venture capital, offering structured debt solutions for businesses in recovery or transition. The inclusion of advisory partners like McKinsey and BDO in the fund’s design reflects a shift toward blended support: capital and capacity-building. With SME resilience tied to job creation and community stability, funds like AGIF II may play a larger role in Africa’s next economic chapter.

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Silverbacks Nets 29x Return on LemFi Exit as Fintech Proves Resilient

Silverbacks Holdings has exited its investment in LemFi, the Nigerian remittance startup, during its $53 million Series B round in January 2025, TechCabal reported. The exit delivered a 29x return on capital, marking Silverbacks’ eighth profitable exit and its fourth from a Nigerian fintech company.The Africa-focused private equity firm, an early backer of Flutterwave and Moove, followed its strategy of partial exits to return capital to investors. Six of its eight exits have come from Nigerian tech-enabled companies. “This 8th profitable exit, which delivered 29x cash invested, is another testament to the quality of our portfolio’s founders,” said Ibrahim Sagna, executive chairman of Silverbacks Holdings.Private capital exits in Africa have slowed since 2022. AVCA said exits fell to 43 in 2023, down 48% from the previous year. By Q3 2024, only 31 had been recorded. Silverbacks’ portfolio spans sports, media, and tech. It holds stakes in Reliance, Gozem, Shuttlers, Carry1st, and the Cape Town Tigers. The firm also recently invested in African Warriors Fighting Championship and added Sanford Climan, CEO of Entertainment Media Ventures, to its advisory board.

Nigeria’s fintech sector has become the most consistent source of investor returns in Africa’s startup space. While broader exits in African private equity have declined since their 2022 peak of 82, the Nigerian fintech ecosystem has remained an outlier. Notable exits like Oui Capital from Moniepoint, Alitheia from Baobab, and now Silverbacks from LemFi, show a clear pattern: financial technology continues to offer liquidity opportunities, even in a tighter capital environment. The country’s large unbanked population, cross-border payment needs, and mobile penetration have attracted both local and international capital. LemFi, which provides remittance services to the diaspora, is part of a growing class of infrastructure-focused startups solving real payment and access gaps. These exits are vital to recycling capital in African ventures and provide track records for fund managers seeking to raise new funds. As IPOs remain rare, trade sales and strategic acquisitions—especially in fintech—are now critical for the continent’s venture maturity.

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Tuesday

BRVM-Listed Tractafric Motors Returns to Profit After Previous Loss

Tractafric Motors Côte d’Ivoire (BRVM: PRSC) reported a net profit of 2.35 billion FCFA ($4.1 million) for fiscal year 2024, rebounding from a 916 million FCFA ($1.6 million) loss in 2023. The Ivorian vehicle distributor posted this profit despite a 4.1% decrease in total assets to 45.2 billion FCFA ($78.3 million) from 51.2 billion FCFA ($88.7 million) a year earlier.Commercial margin improved dramatically to 13.1 billion FCFA ($22.7 million) from negative 167.3 million FCFA (-$289,800) in 2023. Improved inventory management contributed to this recovery, with a positive variation in merchandise stock of 3.2 billion FCFA ($5.5 million).The company will distribute dividends of 2.12 billion FCFA ($3.7 million), representing 207 FCFA per share, with 3.44 billion FCFA ($6 million) carried forward. Customer receivables decreased to 11.1 billion FCFA ($19.2 million) from 14.3 billion FCFA ($24.8 million), indicating improved collection efficiency.

Tractafric Motors, a subsidiary of the Optorg Group, is a major automotive distributor in West and Central Africa, specializing in Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, and other vehicle brands. The company operates in 23 African countries. The automotive sector in Ivory Coast faced challenges in recent years, including supply chain disruptions and economic headwinds. However, improved business conditions in 2024 helped stabilize operations for major distributors. Vehicle imports to Ivory Coast have been recovering after pandemic-related disruptions, with the premium segment showing resilience. Tractafric’s return to profitability reflects both operational improvements and a stabilizing market. The company’s focus on after-sales service and parts distribution, which typically offer higher margins than new vehicle sales, has likely contributed to its financial recovery despite ongoing challenges in the automotive supply chain.

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SMB Reports Revenue Drop as Bitumen Sales Volume Falls

Société Multinationale de Bitumes (BRVM: SMBC) reported a 22% drop in Q1 2025 revenue to 54.8 billion FCFA ($94.9 million) from 70.2 billion FCFA ($121.6 million) a year earlier. The Ivorian bitumen producer saw net profit decline 7% to 2.7 billion FCFA ($4.7 million), while operating profit fell 10% to 4 billion FCFA ($6.9 million).Total bitumen sales volume decreased 30% to 69.8 kilotonnes, compared to 99.7 kilotonnes in Q1 2024. Export sea market sales were particularly affected, falling 53% (33.45 kilotonnes), which the company attributed to “road project scheduling.”Despite lower sales, SMB’s refining margin improved to 6.56 dollars per barrel from 5.96 dollars per barrel in Q1 2024. The company expects improved performance as Ivory Coast’s infrastructure development accelerates under the 2020-2025 National Development Program, which includes new construction and renovation of existing road networks.

SMB, with capital of 4.87 billion FCFA ($8.4 million), is the largest bitumen producer in West Africa and supplies materials essential for road infrastructure development across the region. The company’s performance often reflects regional infrastructure investment cycles. The first quarter’s reduced volume suggests a temporary slowdown in project implementation rather than market contraction. Ivory Coast has committed significant resources to infrastructure development, with the transport sector receiving priority under the National Development Program. The government aims to improve connectivity through road rehabilitation and new construction, which should drive demand for bitumen products. Regional export markets, which typically account for approximately 40% of SMB’s sales, have seen fluctuating demand due to varying implementation timelines for road projects in neighboring countries.

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BOA Burkina Faso Profit Declines Despite Revenue Jump

Bank of Africa-Burkina Faso (BRVM: BOABF) reported net banking income of 14.2 billion FCFA ($24.6 million) in Q1 2025, up 2.3% from 13.9 billion FCFA ($24.1 million) a year earlier, driven by an 11.2% increase in banking margin.Despite revenue growth, net profit fell 16.6% to 5.2 billion FCFA ($9 million) compared to 6.2 billion FCFA ($10.7 million) in Q1 2024. Pre-tax profit declined 18.9% to 6 billion FCFA ($10.4 million). The bank reported customer deposits of 809.9 billion FCFA ($1.4 billion) and customer loans of 553.7 billion FCFA ($959 million) as of March 31.In its quarterly statement, the bank noted operations took place “in a national context marked by government efforts to reclaim territory and improve the business climate.”

Bank of Africa-Burkina Faso, part of Morocco’s BMCE Group, continues operations amid Burkina Faso’s complex security situation. The country has been battling an Islamist insurgency since 2015, with the military government that took power in 2022 focusing on territorial recovery. Despite security challenges, Burkina Faso’s economy has shown resilience. The government’s efforts to stabilize regions previously affected by insurgent activity have created pockets of improved business conditions, particularly in urban centers. The banking sector faces continued pressure from regional economic uncertainty and global inflation. However, Bank of Africa’s modest revenue growth indicates stabilization in core banking operations despite higher costs impacting overall profitability. The BMCE Group operates across 18 African countries and has maintained its commitment to the Burkinabe market despite regional challenges, positioning itself to benefit from economic recovery efforts.

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Wednesday

Coris Bank Net Profit Rises in Q1 After Mixed 2024 Performance

Coris Bank International (BRVM: CBIBF) posted net banking income of 28.7 billion CFA francs ($49.7 million) in the first quarter of 2025, up 2.8% compared to the same period last year, following a challenging 2024. Net income reached 17.6 billion CFA francs ($30.5 million) in Q1, showing a 5.9% increase on a rolling basis. This comes after the bank reported a 25.4% decline in 2024 annual net profit to 47.9 billion CFA francs ($83 million) from 64.2 billion CFA francs in 2023.The bank’s 2024 performance showed mixed results, with net banking income increasing 1.4% to 131 billion CFA francs ($226.9 million), while operating expenses rose 17.6% to 42.8 billion CFA francs ($74.1 million). Risk costs surged 72.5% to 40.5 billion CFA francs ($70.1 million) due to portfolio cleanup actions.Despite these challenges, customer deposits grew 14.8% to 1,754.5 billion CFA francs ($3.04 billion) in 2024, while net loans increased 3.7% to 1,258.9 billion CFA francs ($2.18 billion). The Burkina Faso-based bank maintained its leadership position in the national banking sector despite security and political challenges affecting economic activity.

Coris Bank operates as one of West Africa’s major regional banking groups with headquarters in Burkina Faso and operations across the West African Economic and Monetary Union region. The bank’s 2024 results reflect broader economic trends in the region, where security concerns have hampered growth. The IMF forecasts stable global growth of 3.3% for 2025-2026, providing a potentially favorable backdrop for regional banking. CBI’s strategic pivot toward portfolio quality improvement in 2024 appears to be bearing fruit in early 2025 results. The bank cites intensified commercial initiatives, recovery efforts, technological innovation, and risk management improvements as key drivers for future growth. The positive Q1 2025 performance suggests the bank’s cleanup efforts may be creating a foundation for more sustainable growth, though regional security concerns remain a factor in the bank’s operating environment.

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Ivorian Water Utility Sodeci to Distribute Over $6M in 2024 Dividends

Société de Distribution d’Eau de la Côte d’Ivoire (BRVM:SDCC) posted net income of 3.6 billion XOF ($6.2 million) for 2024, the company said in a statement. The Ivorian water utility reported improved operational metrics despite inflation pressures, with water production up 8% to 378.5 million cubic meters.Revenue reached 172.2 billion XOF ($298.2 million), with operating income at 6.2 billion XOF ($10.7 million). Cash position improved significantly, with net treasury deficit shrinking to 24.9 billion XOF ($43.1 million) from 64.6 billion XOF ($111.9 million) in 2023. This recovery stems from partially collecting sector receivables and optimizing cash flow management.SODECI plans to pay shareholders dividends of 3.6 billion XOF ($6.2 million). For 2025, the company will focus on operational optimization, digital innovation for network supervision, infrastructure development to support universal water access goals, and sustainability initiatives. Côte d’Ivoire’s economy grew 6.1% in 2024, maintaining resilience despite global inflation pressures.

SODECI’s improved financial performance comes amid Côte d’Ivoire’s push to expand water access nationwide. The country faces growing water demand from rapid urbanization and population growth, with the government working to reach 100% water access in urban areas by 2030. The utility maintains a critical role in managing water resources in a region increasingly affected by climate impacts. Côte d’Ivoire’s annual rainfall patterns have shown greater variability, challenging water resource management. SODECI’s investment in digital technologies aligns with sector trends, as African water utilities increasingly adopt smart metering and remote monitoring systems to reduce losses and improve service delivery. The company’s reduced treasury deficit signals progress in addressing a persistent challenge in the African water sector – the gap between service costs and revenue collection. This improvement could strengthen SODECI’s position to secure financing for future infrastructure projects required to meet growing national demand.

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Kenya Economy Grows at Slowest Pace Since 2020

Kenya’s economy is expected to grow by 5.4% in 2025, recovering from a slowdown that saw GDP expand just 4.7% in 2024, the slowest rate since the COVID-19 contraction of 2020, Finance Minister John Mbadi said during a press briefing in Nairobi.The 2025 Economic Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) attributed the 2024 slowdown to tight fiscal conditions, high interest rates, June 2024’s protests, and extreme weather events. Mbadi said that falling interest rates this year will support economic activity and boost investor confidence.Despite the challenges, key sectors recorded positive growth in 2024. Agriculture grew by 4.6%, financial services by 7.6%, real estate by 5.3%, and information and communication by 7.0%. Public administration and food services saw strong rebounds, expanding 8.2% and 25.7% respectively. However, construction and mining sectors contracted by 0.7% and 9.2% due to reduced demand and lower mineral output.

Kenya’s economy showed resilience in 2024 despite global and local headwinds, including policy tightening and political unrest. While growth dipped, recent forecasts suggest a recovery in 2025, supported by easing monetary policy and improving macro fundamentals. The International Monetary Fund projects GDP growth at 4.8% in 2025, slightly below the government’s 5.4% forecast, but still a notable uptick from 2024’s pace. The forecast reflects expectations of stronger domestic demand, increased investment, and renewed fiscal reform momentum aimed at narrowing deficits and stabilizing debt. The Central Bank of Kenya began reducing rates in early 2025 after inflation pressures cooled, helping unlock credit for businesses and households. Investor sentiment is also improving, with treasury reforms, digitized tax systems, and energy sector investments contributing to confidence. However, risks remain. Climate shocks, debt servicing costs, and political pressures could undermine recovery efforts. Sustained structural reform and improved execution of public spending will be key to maintaining momentum in East Africa’s largest economy.

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Thursday

Ghana Inflation Eases for Fifth Straight Month to 21.2% in April

Ghana’s inflation slowed to 21.2% in April 2025, its lowest level in eight months, as the strengthening of the cedi helped reduce the cost of imports, according to Government Statistician Alhassan Iddrisu.The year-on-year inflation rate eased from 22.4% in March, marking the fifth consecutive month of disinflation. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose by 0.8%. Both food and non-food categories contributed to the decline. Food inflation dropped to 25.0% from 26.5% in the previous month, while non-food inflation slowed to 17.9% from 18.7%.The Ghanaian cedi has been one of the world’s best-performing currencies in 2025, strengthening against the dollar and helping to ease import-related price pressures in a country heavily reliant on foreign goods.

Ghana’s monetary and currency policies are showing early signs of effectiveness. The cedi’s appreciation in 2025 has helped reduce inflationary pressure by lowering the cost of imported goods, especially food and fuel. This follows tight monetary policy implemented by the Bank of Ghana in late 2023 and 2024, which included aggressive interest rate hikes to stabilize prices. The moderation in both food and non-food inflation is a positive signal for consumers and businesses. It also offers the central bank room to consider easing rates if the trend continues, potentially stimulating credit and growth. However, risks remain, including potential currency volatility, global commodity price shifts, and fiscal slippages ahead of the 2026 election cycle. Ghana’s government aims to bring inflation within its medium-term target band of 6%–10%, though that remains a longer-term goal. The recent slowdown indicates progress but underscores the need for continued macroeconomic discipline to consolidate gains.

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BRVM-Listed Sode Cote d’Ivoire First-Quarter Profit Rises 17%

Société de Distribution d’Eau de la Côte d’Ivoire (BRVM: SDCC) reported first-quarter net profit of 604 million XOF ($1.05 million), up 17% from 504 million XOF ($873,000) a year earlier. Revenue rose 8% to 41.64 billion XOF ($72.1 million) from 38.25 billion XOF ($66.2 million) in the same period last year, the Ivorian water utility said in a statement.Operating income fell 27% to 1.09 billion XOF ($1.9 million), reflecting higher direct operating costs due to inflation and increased energy expenses. Financial loss widened 33% to 179 million XOF ($310,000). Income from ordinary activities decreased 39% to 915 million XOF ($1.6 million), while tax expenses dropped significantly by 162% to 237 million XOF ($410,000), boosting the bottom line.The revenue growth stemmed from increased water billing volumes, fraud prevention efforts, new production facilities coming online, and improved billing ratios across both Abidjan and interior regions. SODECI plans to continue focusing on collections, billing reliability, and cost control to strengthen performance in the second quarter.

SODECI’s mixed Q1 results highlight both opportunities and challenges in Africa’s water utility sector. The company’s ability to grow revenue despite economic pressures demonstrates the essential nature of water services and successful execution of its anti-fraud campaign. The operating income decline reflects persistent sector challenges, as utilities across the continent struggle with rising energy costs and inflation impacts on treatment chemicals. SODECI faces these pressures while maintaining infrastructure for Côte d’Ivoire’s 27 million citizens. The significant tax expense reduction likely stems from government support measures designed to strengthen utility financial sustainability amid rising operational costs. Similar approaches are emerging across West Africa as governments recognize water security as critical infrastructure. SODECI’s focus on billing improvements targets a common challenge for African water utilities, which typically face non-revenue water rates of 30-40%. The company’s progress on this metric suggests operational improvements that could yield long-term benefits beyond immediate financial results.

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Ivorian Lending BICI Reports 23% First-Quarter Profit Growth

Banque Internationale pour le Commerce et l’Industrie de la Côte d’Ivoire (BRVM: BICC) reported first-quarter net profit of 8.01 billion XOF ($13.9 million), up 23% from 6.51 billion XOF ($11.3 million) a year earlier. Net banking income rose 9.3% to 18.13 billion XOF ($31.4 million) from 16.59 billion XOF ($28.7 million) in the same period last year, the bank said in a statement.Pre-tax income increased 23.3% to 9.27 billion XOF ($16.1 million). Net loans grew 12.2% year-on-year to 547.78 billion XOF ($948.7 million), while customer deposits jumped 16% to 870.54 billion XOF ($1.51 billion).The improved performance stemmed from higher interest margins on the expanded loan portfolio and strong fee income growth. BICICI, part of the BNP Paribas Group, plans to maintain its commercial momentum while focusing on risk management and cost control in upcoming quarters.

BICICI’s strong quarterly performance reflects the robust growth of Ivory Coast’s banking sector, which continues to expand amid the country’s steady economic development. The banking industry has shown resilience despite regional economic challenges. The substantial 16% deposit growth indicates increasing financial inclusion and formalization in Ivory Coast’s economy, where banking penetration still has room for expansion beyond the current estimated 20% of the adult population. BICICI’s loan portfolio growth of 12.2% demonstrates the bank’s commitment to supporting economic activity across various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, and small business development, critical components of Ivory Coast’s economic strategy. The bank’s focus on risk management comes as the UEMOA (West African Economic and Monetary Union) banking sector faces pressure to maintain asset quality amid higher interest rates and inflation. BICICI’s performance suggests effective navigation of these challenges while supporting Ivory Coast’s economic growth, forecast at 6.2% for 2025.

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Friday

Airtel Partners SpaceX to Launch Starlink Internet in Nine Countries

Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to roll out Starlink’s satellite internet service across nine African countries to expand high-speed connectivity. The agreement, announced Monday, marks a major move to bridge the continent’s digital divide.The rollout will begin in Nigeria, Chad, Kenya, Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, Niger, Madagascar, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—targeting rural and remote communities with limited access to reliable internet. Starlink, currently licensed in 9 of Airtel’s 14 markets, will integrate with Airtel’s infrastructure to serve its 163.1 million subscribers.Africa remains home to over 600 million people without internet access. By using Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellites for last-mile connectivity and Airtel’s mobile network for reach, the companies aim to deliver faster, more stable internet to individuals, businesses, schools, and clinics. The partnership also explores using Starlink for cellular backhaul to extend Airtel’s mobile network in areas lacking fiber or tower infrastructure.

The Airtel–SpaceX partnership reflects a shift toward hybrid connectivity models in Africa, where mobile coverage alone has struggled to meet the needs of remote populations. Starlink’s satellite network offers low-latency broadband without dependence on traditional infrastructure, making it ideal for challenging terrains and dispersed communities. This deal gives Airtel a competitive advantage, enabling it to improve enterprise services and expand its rural footprint faster than rivals. It may force major players like MTN and Orange to rethink their digital inclusion strategies or pursue similar satellite partnerships. The integration of satellite internet also has broader economic implications. Access to reliable connectivity can unlock new opportunities in agriculture, healthcare, education, and digital finance, especially as sectors rely increasingly on cloud platforms and real-time data. Beyond rural reach, the partnership could deepen over time to include co-developed services, infrastructure sharing, or even regional innovation hubs. As expectations rise for seamless connectivity, operators able to blend terrestrial and space-based infrastructure will be best positioned to lead Africa’s next phase of digital transformation.

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Morocco Launches Derivatives Market as It Eyes Emerging-Market Status

Morocco has launched derivatives trading on its Casablanca Stock Exchange (CSE), introducing a futures contract based on the MASI 20 index, which tracks the 20 most liquid stocks in the market. The move is part of a broader strategy to deepen capital markets, attract more investors, and regain MSCI emerging-market classification after 12 years.The MASI 20 futures contract, approved by the Moroccan Capital Market Authority (AMMC), trades on a quarterly cycle and settles in cash. Each index point is worth 10 Moroccan dirhams, with a 1,000 MAD initial margin requirement. Trading is continuous and aligned with international standards to accommodate both institutional and professional investors.CSE CEO Tarik Senhaji said derivatives will boost liquidity and improve funding access for Moroccan companies. The bourse also plans to introduce additional instruments, including interest rate futures, single-stock futures, equity options, and listed REITs. Moroccan equities are up 36% year-to-date, outperforming the 7% average return in frontier markets.

The derivatives launch comes amid a broader transformation of Morocco’s financial ecosystem. Daily trading volumes rose nearly 70% to $37.5 million in 2024, and market capitalization jumped from $64.6 billion in December 2023 to $95.5 billion in March 2025. The CSE’s modernization is strategically timed. Morocco will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, a catalyst expected to drive major infrastructure spending. Senhaji believes the new derivatives market will help local companies raise capital more efficiently while offering investors new tools to manage risk and gain exposure. The government is also preparing to introduce interest rate derivatives, which would link the bond and equity markets, facilitating cross-asset trading. February’s approval for state-affiliated financial institutions to join the country’s central clearing system laid the groundwork for broader participation. While retail investors currently account for less than 1% of the market, and the exchange saw only one IPO in 2024, reforms are aimed at improving local engagement. With foreign investors holding about 30% of the market, Morocco is positioning itself as a regional hub for capital in both public and private sectors.

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Egypt’s Money Fellows Raises $13M to Expand Digital Savings Platform

Egyptian fintech platform Money Fellows has secured $13 million in a new financing round, bringing its total funding to over $60 million since launch. The company digitizes traditional rotating savings and credit associations (ROSCAs), locally known as “Gameya,” offering users a mobile-based alternative to informal savings systems.The latest investment round was co-led by Al Mada Ventures (AMV) and DPI Venture Capital via the Nclude Fund, with support from Partech and CommerzVentures. The funds will be used to enhance the platform’s technology and support regional expansion as the company scales beyond its current 8.5 million users and more than 350 local and regional partnerships.Money Fellows allows users to save, borrow, and manage financial commitments within trusted social circles, offering an accessible alternative to formal banking, particularly for underserved populations. The platform aims to strengthen financial inclusion by making savings and credit tools more secure, efficient, and culturally familiar.

Money Fellows taps into a long-standing financial practice rooted in community trust: the rotating savings group. These informal systems, known globally as ROSCAs, have enabled people without access to formal banking to pool resources, share financial obligations, and access credit. By digitizing this model, Money Fellows creates scalable infrastructure for financial inclusion, targeting regions where banking penetration remains low. With 8.5 million users, the startup demonstrates how fintech can modernize existing behaviors rather than replace them, offering users digital transparency, security, and incentives. Investors are betting on this hybrid of tradition and technology. As Africa and the Middle East continue to see growth in mobile connectivity and fintech adoption, platforms like Money Fellows are positioning themselves to redefine how people access and manage money.

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