The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) has received the green light from the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to amend its Equity Trading Rules, in a move expected to make investing in shares more accessible to ordinary Kenyans.
Starting August 1, 2025, investors will be able to buy and sell shares in any quantity, including just one share, through the main trading board.
Previously, those looking to trade small quantities of shares had to use a separate system known as the Odd Lot Board, which will now be phased out.
The change is part of the NSE’s 2025–2029 strategic plan, which focuses on revitalising the market and encouraging more participation from retail investors, ordinary individuals, especially first-time or small-scale investors.
NSE Approves Trading of Single Shares
This means investors will be able to buy and sell individual shares, rather than being limited to trading in multiples of a set number as was previously the case with the Odd Lot Board.
Closing prices will now require a minimum of 100 shares traded in a session.
The NSE has urged all trading participants, including brokers and system operators, to inform investors.
“Trading participants are requested to inform their investors and adjust their systems accordingly. These changes will take effect from 01 August 2025,” the statement read.
Also Read: NSE Announces First Listing by Packaging Company with 50.5 Million Shares
Strategies for Investor Growth
In its 2025–2029 strategic plan, the NSE identified key gaps in retail investor participation, financial literacy, and access to inclusive investment opportunities.
The key focus areas include:
- Growing Retail Investor Participation
The goal is to increase the number of active retail investors to 9 million. This will make investing in capital markets more accessible to ordinary Kenyans. Efforts will include improving financial literacy, simplifying the investment process, using digital platforms, and deploying at least 500 NSE agents across the country to reach underserved areas. - Attracting More Listings
NSE aims to list 40 new companies, including both large firms and SMEs. This will improve market liquidity and provide investors with more options. The plan includes awareness campaigns and regulatory reforms to make it easier for smaller companies to join the exchange. - Boosting Operational Efficiency
NSE is targeting a 40% cost-to-income ratio. This will be achieved by streamlining operations, investing in new technologies, and aligning staff roles and processes to better serve different market segments.
Also Read: Ruto Confirms Listing of Kenya Pipeline on NSE
- Becoming a Top Employer
The NSE wants to rank among Kenya’s Top 20 Employers of Choice. This will be done by focusing on leadership development, enhancing corporate culture, and engaging employees to attract and retain top talent. - Diversifying Investment Products
The exchange plans to introduce 50 new investment funds, such as Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). This will help investors build more diverse portfolios and cater to different risk preferences. - Building a Strong Brand
NSE aims to become one of the Top 10 Most Loved Brands in Kenya by living its values: Integrity, Excellence, Leadership, Boldness, and Innovation. The focus will be on building trust, delivering value, and leading with transparency.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
