Senegal's Bonds Pare Losses as Fiscal Probe Spooks Investors
TLDR
- Senegal's bond market experienced a selloff following the new government's investigation into the previous administration's fiscal accounts.
- Yields on Senegal's 2048 sovereign notes increased by 34 basis points, reaching 9.68% before a partial recovery.
- Analysts remain optimistic about the long-term outlook for Senegal's bonds despite concerns over financial transparency and public debt ratios.
Senegal's bonds faced a selloff on Friday after the new government announced a probe into the previous administration’s fiscal accounts, raising concerns about the country’s financial transparency.
Yields on the country's 2048 sovereign notes rose by 34 basis points before partially recovering to 9.68%. Despite the initial reaction, analysts see long-term optimism for Senegal’s bonds.
The review aims to determine whether the previous administration presented an unrealistic fiscal picture, especially regarding public debt, which Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko revealed to be 76.3% of GDP—significantly higher than the 65.9% reported under former President Macky Sall.
Key Takeaways
Despite the fiscal concerns, analysts like Mark Bohlund of REDD Intelligence expect the outlook to improve if Senegal adheres to orthodox economic policies and secures IMF support. Senegal raised $750 million in Eurobonds in June, signaling international confidence in its economic prospects, which are buoyed by oil and gas development and strong institutions.
Next Frontier
Stay up to date on major news and events in African markets. Delivered weekly.
Pulse54
UDeep-dives into what’s old and new in Africa’s investment landscape. Delivered twice monthly.
Events
Sign up to stay informed about our regular webinars, product launches, and exhibitions.