BlackRock, the largest asset manager globally has been in the headlines after it submitted an application to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to register a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF). Following this application, atleast two investment firms have made similar
Global cryptocurrency exchange, FTX, has partnered with fintech company, AZA Finance, formerly BitPesa, to expand the adoption of Web3 and cryptocurrencies in Africa. AZA Finance is Africa’s biggest non-bank currency broker leveraging digital assets. In a press release on the AZA Finance
Kenya's government, under President William Ruto, plans a new digital identity scheme to replace the halted Huduma Number program, addressing concerns over data protection. The new plan includes a Unique Personal Identifier for various services, aiming for better integration while using blockchain for data security.
Ethiopia is stepping into the global spotlight for Bitcoin mining, becoming the first African country to support large-scale, state-backed operations. With the government signing agreements with 21 mining firms in 2024 – including UMINERS — the country is positioning itself as a major player in the
Umba, a fintech company that started operations in Nigeria, has recently launched its services in Kenya providing an opportunity for the firm to expand its market share. Umba’s introduction to the Kenyan market is a result of its purchase of a controlling stake in Daraja Microfinance Bank which
Nigerian fintech Raenest has raised $11 million in Series A funding to expand its services across Africa and beyond. Founded in 2022, it facilitates international payments and multi-currency management for over 700,000 users and 300 businesses.
MNT-Halan, an Egyptian fintech, raised $157.4 million in funding, led by the IFC, to support its expansion. Founded in 2018, it has grown significantly, serving over seven million users and disbursing $4.4 billion in loans, aiming to revolutionize financial services beyond Egypt.
Ten startups will compete in the Latitude59 Africa final for a chance to win EUR 1 million. The finalists, selected from 382 applications, will pitch on November 28, showcasing a shift toward agriculture and sustainability innovations in Kenya.