The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) has achieved a major milestone after being upgraded from Restricted to Pass on the Efficient Trading Mechanism criterion by the FTSE Russell Index Governance Board.
The upgrade follows the FTSE Equity Country Classification Interim Review conducted in September this year.
The FTSE Equity Country Classification process is globally recognized for its rigor, evaluating markets against comprehensive technical criteria and incorporating insights from leading institutional investors.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 14, the NSE said the upgrade marks a transformational leap for Kenya’s equity market.
“The Nairobi Securities Exchange Pic (NSE) has achieved a major milestone: an upgrade from Restricted to Pass on the Efficient Trading Mechanism criterion by the FTSE Russell Index Governance Board, following the FTSE Equity Country Classification Interim Review conducted in September 2025,” read the statement in part.
“This upgrade signals a transformational leap for Kenya’s equity market, affirming that securities listed on the NSE can now be traded in multiples of one share, effective August 1, 2025, a reform that dramatically enhances market accessibility and flexibility.”
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Win for Investors as NSE is Upgraded to Pass by FTSE Russell
While commenting on the development, NSE Chief Executive Officer Frank Mwiti said the FTSE Russell upgrade is a strong endorsement of the modernization and reform agenda championed by the NSE.
“It reflects our unwavering commitment to democratizing investment, boosting liquidity, and positioning Kenya as a globally competitive investment hub,” he said.
“We are building a market that is dynamic, transparent, and inclusive, one that attracts both local and international investors.”
Upgrade Puts Kenya on Global Investors’ Radar
The securities exchange stated that this upgrade places Kenya firmly on the radar of global asset allocators, reinforcing confidence in the country’s capital markets.
“FTSE Russell’s flagship equity indexes are trusted worldwide for portfolio construction, risk analysis, and asset allocation, making this development a strategic win for Kenya’s integration into global investment flows,” NSE stated.
It further noted that the upgrade serves as a catalyst for growth and inclusion in Kenya’s capital markets.
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By enabling trading in single-share multiples, the trading platform said it opens doors for retail investors, making participation more accessible than ever before.
The change also drives liquidity, creating deeper and more active markets that benefit all stakeholders.
“Most importantly, it aligns Kenya with global best practices, signaling to international investors that the country is ready for greater capital inflows and integration into the world’s leading investment ecosystems,” NSE said
“This is not just an upgrade; it is a signal to the world: Kenya is ready for the next era of investment.”
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