Kenya’s Licensed Investment Banks: A 2025 Guide to Top Financial Institutions

Here’s a comprehensive overview of all licensed investment banks operating in Kenya as of May 2025, highlighting their key services and market focus, from securities trading to corporate finance advisory.

BUSINESS

Markloyd Mugambi

5/12/20252 min read

Top Licensed Investment Banks in Kenya (May 2025)

Kenya’s capital markets are supported by a diverse group of investment banks licensed by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA). These firms offer a range of financial services—from wealth management and securities trading to corporate finance and M&A advisory.

Below is a summary of the country’s 17 licensed investment banks and what they offer:

1. ABSA Securities Limited

A subsidiary of Absa Bank Kenya, ABSA Securities provides securities trading and corporate finance advisory services, with access to both local and global markets through the bank’s extensive network.

2. Dyer & Blair Investment Bank Limited

One of Kenya's oldest investment banks (established in 1954), offering asset management, brokerage, investment banking, and financial research.

3. Equity Investment Bank Limited

Part of Equity Group Holdings, it serves retail and institutional clients with services including securities trading and corporate advisory.

4. Faida Investment Bank Limited

Licensed since 1995, Faida offers private equity placements, corporate finance advisory, and recently served as the broker for Nation Media Group’s share buyback.

5. Genghis Capital Limited

Founded in 2008, Genghis provides corporate finance advisory, asset management, and trading services, known for its robust investor network.

6. KCB Investment Bank Limited

A KCB Group subsidiary offering a wide array of investment services including securities trading, corporate finance, and in-depth market research.

7. NCBA Investment Bank Limited

Specializes in brokerage, wealth management, and is a licensed NSE trading member, providing access to equities, fixed income, and derivatives markets.

8. Renaissance Capital (Kenya) Limited

The Kenyan arm of a global investment group focused on frontier markets. Offers M&A advisory, equity/debt capital markets services, and research.

9. SBG Securities Limited

A subsidiary of Stanbic Holdings, providing brokerage, corporate finance advisory, and market research for both retail and institutional clients.

10. Standard Investment Bank Limited

Operating since 1985, SIB leads in fixed income and equity trading, and also offers asset management and corporate finance advisory.

11. Sterling Capital Limited

Offers real-time online trading and customized investment products like Nawiri USD/KES, targeting both domestic and diaspora investors.

12. Dry Associates Investment Bank

Established in 1994, this firm focuses on corporate finance and private wealth, credited for shaping Kenya’s commercial paper industry.

13. Salaam Investment Bank Kenya Limited

Provides ethical and Sharia-compliant investment solutions with a strong focus on transparency, integrity, and customer-centric service.

14. Gulfcap Investment Bank Limited

Offers corporate finance and asset management services, aiming to deliver innovative financial solutions across Kenya’s markets.

15. Pergamon Investment Bank Limited

Provides a mix of securities trading, corporate finance, and personalized investment advisory services.

16. Investcent Investment Bank Limited

Tech-forward investment firm offering tailored services for both individual and institutional investors.

17. Capital A Investment Bank Limited

Formerly Securities Africa Kenya, this firm connects clients with opportunities across Africa via securities trading and corporate finance services.

Stay Updated

As of May 2025, these firms are officially licensed by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA). Due to potential regulatory or corporate changes, always refer to the CMA’s official directory for the most updated list of licensed institutions:
🔗 CMA Kenya Licensee Directory

Photo: Biz sasa