Hi there👋 Last week was eventful, especially in finance, with the banking sector making significant moves. The forex shortage seems to be easing as banks are providing more liquidity to the market. There were also notable developments, such as the EU grant and progress on debt relief. On the global stage, President Trump made waves
Eid Mubarak 🌙As we begin the week, we’d like to extend warm wishes to all observing Eid al-Fitr. May this season bring peace, reflection, and renewed purpose. This week’s stories highlight the pulse of Ethiopia’s financial, governance, and reform landscape. From digital partnerships and capital market advances to deeper questions of public accountability and fiscal
Ethiopian Capital Market Expands with New Licenses The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) has granted licenses to five new capital market service providers (CMSPs), bringing the total number of licensed providers to nine. The new licensees include: This move reflects the growth and diversification of Ethiopia’s capital market, which is now more accessible to both
Ethiopian Airlines Secures AfDB Support for Mega Airport Project Ethiopian Airlines has signed a deal with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to develop the Bishoftu International Airport, a $7.8 billion project aimed at boosting Ethiopia’s airport capacity to handle 60 million passengers annually by 2040. The agreement, signed by Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew and
CBE Adjusts Loan Interest Rates to Ensure Sustainability The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has announced adjustments to its loan interest rates, effective March 7, 2025, as part of its ongoing transformation and the government’s market-oriented policies.Key changes include reductions in agricultural loan rates (short-term: 11.5%, medium-term: 12%, long-term: 12.5%) and unchanged rates for residential
Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed Visits Somalia for Talks with President Mohamud Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Mogadishu on February 27, 2025, to hold discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, marking a step toward easing tensions between the two nations. Relations had soured in early 2024 over Ethiopia’s deal to lease a coastline in Somaliland,
ECMA Grants Securities Investment Advisor License to Ethio Capital Solutions The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) has licensed Ethio Capital Solutions PLC as a Securities Investment Advisor, further expanding Ethiopia’s capital market. The firm met regulatory requirements under Directive No. 980/2024 and is now authorized to provide investment advisory services to issuers, investors, and market
38th African Union Summit Concludes The 38th African Union Summit, held in Addis Ababa, brought together African heads of state, diplomats, and institutional leaders to discuss key issues, including AU reforms, restorative justice, Africa’s push for a UN Security Council seat, peace and security, AfCFTA implementation, climate change, human rights, and youth empowerment. On the
Ethiopian Securities Exchange to Add Five Listings in Six Months The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) is now fully operational, with the necessary infrastructure and legal framework in place. CEO Tilahun E. Kassahun confirmed that one bank has already entered the market, with plans to list at least five more companies within six months and up
EIH & Puma Energy Explore Investments in Ethiopia’s Energy & Aviation Sectors Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) and Puma Energy are in discussions to boost Ethiopia’s energy and aviation infrastructure. The talks focused on strategic partnerships to meet rising demand and position Ethiopia as a global hub. EIH CEO Brook Taye emphasized the need for world-class
IMF Approves $248 Million for Ethiopia Under ECF Program The IMF has completed the second review of Ethiopia’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF), releasing $248 million to support the country’s balance of payments. This is part of a $10.7 billion package aiding Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda (HGER). Total disbursements now stand at $1.611 billion. Ethiopia
This week’s newsletter marks the first edition following the historic launch of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), a milestone our platform has long awaited. With the bell now rung, we are embarking on an exciting new chapter. As we begin this journey, our commitment to progress and innovation remains unwavering. Get ready for a fresh
Yesuf Hadji
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Monday Breakfast Stories lands every week — the capital market, banking, and startup news that moved.