In a landmark development for Ethiopia’s financial sector, Wegagen Capital Investment Bank S.C. has officially become the first institution to receive a Trading Membership Certificate from the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX). This milestone follows the company’s recent investment banking license granted by the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA), placing Wegagen Capital at the forefront of the country’s emerging capital market.
By becoming a licensed trading member, Wegagen Capital is now empowered to facilitate investor access to the ESX, execute trades on behalf of clients, and contribute to the development of a transparent and liquid market. This step marks a major advancement toward the operationalization of Ethiopia’s capital market and the broader goal of building an inclusive and modern financial ecosystem.
The membership award ceremony was held in the presence of H.E. Hana Tehelku, Director General of ECMA, and Sunil Benimadhu, CEO of the Mauritius Stock Exchange.
Wegagen Capital’s recognition comes shortly after its parent company, Wegagen Bank, made history by becoming the first company to list its shares on the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. This dual role—both as a listed entity and as a licensed market intermediary—positions Wegagen as a pioneer in Ethiopia’s capital market evolution.
The firm’s entry into the trading ecosystem is expected to boost investor confidence, support liquidity, and set a precedent for other institutions preparing to participate in the new market. It also reflects the increasing readiness of Ethiopia’s financial institutions to align with regulatory reforms and tap into capital market opportunities.
As Ethiopia takes concrete steps to activate its capital market, milestones like this highlight the momentum behind the country’s financial modernization and its commitment to fostering investment, transparency, and sustainable economic growth.
