Africa’s financial markets are entering a new phase, with central banks balancing inflation risks against growth, companies tapping deeper capital markets and banks reshaping their businesses around digital customers. From Egypt’s rate pause to Zambia’s IPO ambitions and Absa’s expansion plans, this week’s stories show where Africa’s money is moving — and why it matters.
Egypt pauses rate cuts for fifth straight meeting as inflation rises
Egypt’s central bank kept its key interest rates unchanged for a fifth straight meeting, leaving the deposit rate at 19 percent and lending rate at 20 percent as inflation and Middle East tensions weigh on the economy.
Why it matters: The decision shows how geopolitical risks and higher fuel costs are making African central banks more cautious about cutting rates.
Absa eyes Angola return, weighs Nigeria licence
