By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, May 28, 2026 - The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has approved the grant of three new investment bank licences in a broader effort to expand the country’s full-service capital markets capacity.
In a statement, the regulator confirmed that the firms granted the licenses include Cinemark Consult Limited, Fintrust Securities Limited, and AIB-AXYS Africa Limited.
The authority has maintained that the move will be fundamental in elevating access to professional financial services and issuers and investors, as well as supporting innovation and diversification of the market.
“CMA notes that these approvals will contribute to increased market depth, improved product diversity, enhanced issuer and investor choice, and strengthened confidence in Kenya's capital markets,” the authority stated.
“ The Authority remains committed to maintaining high regulatory standards while supporting innovation and responsible market development,” it added.
An investment bank license allows a financial firm to offer a wider range of capital markets and corporate finance services beyond ordinary stock trading or security dealing.
Firms licensed as investment banks by the CMA have the capability to advise companies on raising capital, manage share and bond issuances, offer underwriting services, conduct securities trading, manage wealth and assets for clients, and provide corporate finance advisory services.
Cinemark Consult Limited, which was previously operating as an Authorised Securities Dealer, will now provide other services, including corporate advisory, securities dealing, underwriting, fund management, and market-making under a single licensed entity.
The authority has said that the firm aims to target institutional investors, corporates, retail investors, diaspora clients, and high-net-worth individuals.
Previously licensed as an Authorised Securities Dealer, Fintrust Securities Limited will expand its operations to include corporate finance advisory, underwriting, debt and equity capital raising, wealth and asset management, research services, and enhanced fixed-income trading.
On the other hand, AIB-AXYS Africa, which has been operating as a stockbroker, has been promoted to an Investment Bank, meaning that it will continue offering brokerage services in equities and fixed income while adding services such as corporate finance advisory, capital raising, wealth management, underwriting and syndication, alternative investments, and sustainable finance advisory.
CMA has also said that the firm will provide digital access for retail and diaspora investors through its trading platform.
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