Microfinance Turned Bank Embarks on Securities Exchange Investment


Microfinance Turned Bank Embarks on Securities Exchange Investment

Siinqee Bank has taken a significant step towards the realisation of the inaugural securities exchange by making a 50 million Br equity investment in the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX). The agreement was signed last week between Neway Megerssa, president of Siinqee and Tilahun Kassahun, CEO of Exchange, at the Bank's headquarters on Tito St. Siinquee Bank, which transitioned from a microfinance institution to a full-fledged bank, has rapidly expanded its branch network, reaching 530 branches across the country in less than two years. As part of the deal, it becomes a five percent stakeholder in the paid-up capital of ESX, with the minimum equity investment set at 10 million Br. The equity investment in ESX follows a broader trend, with Zemen Bank being the first private commercial bank to invest in the exchange with a 47.5 million Br purchase last month. An initial 275 million Br was raised from four state-owned enterprises under Ethiopia's sovereign wealth fund, Ethiopian Investment Holdings and FSD Africa. Neway Megerssa highlighted the opportunity presented by the launch of capital markets, emphasising its potential to boost savings, increase capital, and enhance overall efficiency. He also noted that the establishment of capital markets would contribute to increased competitiveness among financial institutions.


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Dashen Bank Rolls Out Mobile Payment Solution

Dashen Bank has introduced a new digital payment service that allows customers to pay for fuel with ease using the Dashen Super mobile app. The service was officially launched on May 13 and is now available at every fuel stations. According to the bank, the Dashen Super app enables users to make payments in just three clicks, offering a fast and convenient alternative to traditional payment methods. Dashen Bank announced that it plans to expand the service across all fuel stations in the coun...


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Four Key Agreements Passed in Parliaments 29th Regular Session

In its 29th regular session of the fourth year, Ethiopia's 6th Parliament approved four key agreements: two loan deals, the establishment of a finance corporation, and an air transport agreement. Assistant Minister of State for Finance, Meseret Haile, introduced the proposed loan agreements and requested they be sent directly to a second reading for discussion and approval. Parliament accepted the request and proceeded with a detailed discussion on the draft proclamations. Members of Parli...


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New Pact Targets Rural Road Links, Food Security Goals

The Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure has signed an agreement with several federal institutions to launch a major project targeting rural connectivity and food security. At the signing ceremony, State Minister Yetmegeta Asrat represented the Ministry alongside officials from the Federal Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Federal Public Procurement and Property Authority, the Environmental Protection Authority, and Helvetas Ethiopia. A separate agreement was also signed...