The archive
Analysis
Everything this desk has published, newest first.
DSX Emerging Dynamics: How Liquidity Bottlenecks Restrict Cameroonian Corporate Debt Issuances
The Douala Stock Exchange remains the smallest of Central Africa's listed markets, and thin secondary trading is now the binding constraint on how much corporate debt issuers can realistically raise there. Here's why liquidity — not appetite — is the real ceiling on Cameroon's bond market.
Cocoa Rebounds: What Higher Prices Mean for West and Central African Producers
Cocoa prices climbed around 3.18% to approximately $5,719 per tonne, bringing fresh attention to the economic impact on West and Central Africa's major producing countries. But the key question is not simply whether cocoa prices are rising — it is who ultimately captures the gains.
Oil Falls More Than 5% This Week: What Lower Crude Prices Mean for African Economies
Brent crude fell more than 5% this week, creating contrasting consequences across Africa. Oil-producing economies face pressure on government revenues and foreign exchange, while importing countries could benefit from lower fuel and transport costs.
Dangote Refinery's $5bn IPO: The Crude Supply Problem Investors Are Watching
Dangote Refinery is targeting a landmark $5 billion IPO, potentially making it Africa's largest-ever stock market listing. But as investors assess the opportunity, the refinery's reliance on imported crude remains a critical issue for margins and valuation.
Evans Kongnyuy and the Rise of Data Analysis Training in Cameroon
Since 2023, Evans Kongnyuy has trained more than 50 students in data analysis and supported over 100 students with research, academic writing and mentorship, combining statistical tools with emerging AI technologies.
Cocoa & Agricultural Exports: West Africa's Supply Crisis Reshapes Global Trade
Cocoa prices surged 9.44% after Ghana projected lower production for the 2026/27 season, raising fresh concerns over global supply. The developing supply crisis in West Africa is increasing pressure on manufacturers, exporters and agricultural supply chains.
African Forex Watch: Naira Stabilises, Rand Under Pressure, Shilling Steady
African currencies showed divergent trends in early August, with the Nigerian naira stabilising, the South African rand facing pressure and the Kenyan shilling remaining relatively steady. Here's what the latest currency movements mean for businesses, trade and investors across Africa.
Nairobi NSE Market Brief: Kenyan Stocks Steady Ahead of CBK Decision
Kenya's stock market traded mixed in early August as investors prepared for the Central Bank of Kenya's monetary policy decision. The NASI gained 0.50%, while the NSE 20 and NSE 10 indices declined.
African Central Banks Hold the Line as Inflation Shapes Rate Decisions
Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya kept their benchmark interest rates unchanged as policymakers balanced inflation risks against economic growth. The decisions highlight the different pressures facing three of Africa's largest economies.
African Commodities Focus: Oil Falls, Gold Holds and Cocoa Surges
African commodity markets moved sharply in early August as Brent crude fell 5.26%, gold remained above $4,000 per ounce and cocoa surged 9.44%. The contrasting moves highlight the growing importance of commodity prices for African exports, currencies and fiscal revenues
BRVM Market Brief: West Africa's Regional Exchange Holds Steady Amid Consolidation
The BRVM Composite Index rebounded to 485.43 points in early August after a period of profit-taking. Telecommunications and public services remain among the strongest-performing sectors as investors reassess valuations across West Africa's regional exchange.
JSE Market Brief: Rate Hold, Oil Pressure and Resource Stocks
South Africa's JSE All Share Index fell 1.79% in July as investors responded to rate uncertainty, higher oil prices and rising inflation. The SARB's decision to hold its repo rate at 7% has added another layer of uncertainty for investors and businesses.