Standard Chartered Introduces Global Investment Products for Kenyan Investors

Read Time:1 Minute, 56 Second

Standard Chartered Bank has introduced a range of foreign currency investment products designed for investors seeking to diversify beyond local markets. The bank has added US Corporate Bonds, USD Government Bonds, and its proprietary Signature CIO Funds to its portfolio.

The introduction of these global investment products complements the bank’s existing offerings, such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) funds, USD Money Market Funds (MMFs), and mutual funds in various denominations.

This move comes at a time when many investors are exploring alternative avenues to grow their wealth amid fluctuations in local markets.

Standard Chartered aims to democratize access to investment solutions for a new era of well-informed Kenyan investors by leveraging its comprehensive digital infrastructure.

Through its digital platform, clients can explore and invest in global opportunities, including US Treasuries, Foreign Currency Money Market Funds (FCY/MMFs), and the bank’s CIO Signature Funds. The digital platform also allows investors to seamlessly buy, track, and sell investment products.

Chumba Edith, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking for Kenya and East Africa at Standard Chartered, emphasized the importance of financial education in the bank’s strategic plan:

“At Standard Chartered, we believe that an informed investor is an empowered investor. Recent surveys indicate that 60% of new investors feel inadequately prepared to make investment decisions on global platforms. We are responding by enhancing our educational initiatives and digital offerings to build confidence and competence in the investment sector.” she stated.

Read: Standard Chartered Kenya Q1 2024 Profits Climb to Ksh 5.6 Billion

Research shows a growing trend among Kenyan investors toward foreign currency assets, such as US Treasuries and Foreign Currency MMFs, as a means of diversifying their portfolios. This shift highlights a rising appetite for stable and secure investments, particularly in light of local market fluctuations.

“Our investment offering is underpinned by a structured advisory framework and research to ensure our clients are well equipped when making financial decisions.” Edith noted.

At the core of Standard Chartered’s investment offering is the SC Wealth Select framework, which follows a “Today, Tomorrow, Forever” approach to financial planning.

This method draws on over 100 years of the bank’s experience, combining historical knowledge with real-time market insights. It provides clients with a structured plan that addresses their immediate, short-term, and long-term financial goals.