In a pioneering move for East Africa’s financial markets, Valour Inc., a global leader in crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs), has appointed GulfCap Investment Bank (GCIB) as its lead transaction advisor for the cross-listing of its digital asset ETPs on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE).

This strategic partnership, pending approval from Kenya’s Capital Markets Authority (CMA), marks a significant milestone in expanding regulated access to digital assets for Kenyan investors.

By enabling trading in Kenyan shillings, Valour aims to provide secure, compliant, and simplified exposure to leading cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based financial instruments.

This initiative aligns with Kenya’s growing reputation as a hub for fintech innovation and digital asset adoption in Africa.

With GulfCap’s expertise and Valour’s robust portfolio of over 65 fully hedged digital asset ETPs, this collaboration is set to redefine investment opportunities in the region.

Why This Partnership Matters for Kenyan Investors

Kenya is already one of Africa’s most active digital asset markets, with widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum among its tech-savvy population.

According to industry reports, Kenya ranks among the top African nations for peer-to-peer crypto trading and blockchain innovation. However, access to regulated digital asset investment products has been limited until now.

Valour’s cross-listing on the NSE will allow investors to trade digital asset ETPs directly in Kenyan shillings, eliminating the complexities of international crypto exchanges and currency conversions.

These ETPs, which are already listed on major European exchanges like Xetra (Germany), Spotlight (Sweden), and Euronext (Paris and Amsterdam), provide a secure and regulated way to gain exposure to digital assets without the need to manage private keys or navigate unregulated platforms.

By partnering with GulfCap Investment Bank, a CMA-licensed institution with deep expertise in cross-border capital markets, Valour ensures that this initiative adheres to the highest standards of governance and investor protection.

This move not only enhances financial inclusion but also appeals to Kenya’s digital-first investor generation, who are eager to explore alternative investment opportunities.

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The Role of GulfCap Investment Bank

GulfCap Investment Bank, led by founder and CEO Saud Shahbal, will spearhead the advisory process for the cross-listing. Their comprehensive support includes:

1. Regulatory Coordination: Ensuring compliance with CMA and NSE requirements.
2. Due Diligence: Conducting thorough assessments to meet regulatory standards.
3. Documentation: Preparing all necessary materials for a seamless listing process.
4. Investor Outreach: Engaging with local and regional investors to build awareness and trust.
5. Execution: Overseeing the successful implementation of the cross-listing.

GulfCap’s local expertise and proven track record in navigating complex regulatory landscapes make them the ideal partner for Valour’s entry into the Kenyan market.

Their commitment to compliance and investor protection ensures that this initiative will set a new standard for digital asset investments in East Africa.

Valour Inc.: Bridging Traditional and Decentralised Finance

Valour Inc., a subsidiary of DeFi Technologies Inc., is at the forefront of integrating blockchain technology with traditional financial markets.

DeFi Technologies, listed on Cboe Canada, is a fintech company dedicated to developing innovative financial solutions that bridge the gap between traditional and decentralised finance.

Valour’s expertise lies in creating fully hedged digital asset ETPs, which provide investors with exposure to cryptocurrencies and other digital assets while mitigating risks associated with volatility.

With a portfolio of over 65 ETPs covering major digital assets, Valour has established itself as a trusted issuer in Europe. The company’s mission is to make digital assets accessible, secure, and compliant for investors worldwide.

By expanding into Kenya, Valour is taking a significant step toward achieving this goal in emerging markets.

A Strategic Milestone: Valour’s Expansion in Africa

Valour’s partnership with GulfCap builds on its earlier efforts to establish a foothold in Africa. In August 2024, Valour signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Nairobi Securities Exchange and SovFi, a Kenyan fintech firm, to introduce digital asset ETPs to the Kenyan market.

This collaboration laid the groundwork for integrating blockchain-based financial instruments into traditional markets.

Building on this momentum, the NSE announced plans in April 2025 to launch a digital assets exchange and tokenisation platform.

Valour’s ETPs are expected to be listed on this platform before the end of Q3 2025, further solidifying Kenya’s position as a leader in fintech innovation.

Why Digital Asset ETPs Are a Game-Changer

Digital asset ETPs offer several advantages for investors, particularly in markets like Kenya, where demand for alternative investments is growing:

1. Regulated Exposure: Unlike direct cryptocurrency purchases, ETPs are traded on regulated exchanges, ensuring investor protection and compliance with local laws.
2. Simplified Access: Investors can buy and sell ETPs through their existing brokerage accounts, eliminating the need for crypto wallets or specialised platforms.
3. Diversification: Valour’s ETPs cover a wide range of digital assets, allowing investors to diversify their portfolios without the complexity of managing multiple cryptocurrencies.
4. Local Currency Trading: Trading in Kenyan Shillings makes these products more accessible and cost-effective for local investors.
5. Hedging Mechanisms: Valour’s fully hedged ETPs are designed to mitigate risks associated with the volatility of digital assets, providing a safer investment option.

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What’s Next for Valour and GulfCap?

As Valour and GulfCap work toward the cross-listing of digital asset ETPs on the NSE, the focus will be on ensuring a seamless and compliant process.

The partnership is expected to pave the way for further collaborations in the region, potentially expanding to other African markets with similar demand for regulated digital asset products.

Investors and market participants can look forward to the launch of these ETPs by Q3 2025, pending CMA approval.

In the meantime, GulfCap will continue to engage with regulators, stakeholders, and investors to build trust and awareness around this innovative investment opportunity.

Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.