Make Money

Investing often means spreading your money across different assets to reduce risk. But buying multiple stocks, bonds or commodities can be costly and complex. Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) offer investors a simpler route by packaging several assets into a single investment product. In this Make Money episode, Richard Muriithi, Senior Portfolio Manager at ICEA Lion Asset Management, breaks down how ETFs work, who they are best suited for and the risks investors should understand before getting started.

As interest rates continue to fall, bond prices have risen, opening a window for investors to take profits. But is this the right time to sell?Christine Gatakaa, Head of Fixed Income Trading at Capital A Investment Bank, explains the relationship between interest rates and bond prices. She also breaks down how secondary bond markets work and what investors should consider before deciding whether to sell.

The first quarter of 2026 opened with a fresh external shock following the US-Israel war on Iran, adding to global market uncertainty.Despite this, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has continued its rate-cutting cycle, signalling a supportive environment for investors.In this episode of the Make Money podcast, Teddy Irungu, Head of Research at Rock Advisors Investment Bank, breaks down the Q1 2026 investing scorecard, examining market resilience, the outlook for the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) and where opportunities still lie.

Dividends are becoming a central pillar of wealth creation, beyond share price gains. As listed firms, particularly banks, ramp up shareholder payouts, Make Money explores how investors can position for steady dividend income.AIB-AXYS Africa Senior Research Analyst Joseph Muriithi breaks down the mechanics behind dividend investing

The initial buzz around the Kenya Pipeline Company's (KPC) initial public offer has faded, and the stock is now officially trading on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. But behind the scenes, the first IPO in over a decade revealed a changing investor landscape. Rina Hicks, Operations Director at Faida Investment Bank, the lead adviser to the KPC offer, joins Make Money to dissect the offering. We explore the signals of retail investor apathy, emerging opportunities in the secondary market and what this means for future deals.

Can you actually make money trading stocks or is buy-and-hold still the safest bet?For years, investors have been told to stick to long-term strategies, with frequent trading seen as risky and speculative. But recent market swings are challenging that thinking, showing how well-timed entry and exit can unlock value.In this episode, FourFront Management trading analyst Lilian Chege breaks down the realities of trading, the risks investors often overlook, and the opportunities that may be missed by relying solely on a buy-and-hold approach.

As plummeting interest rates erode the appeal of "vanilla" assets like money market funds, investors are aggressively pivoting toward Special Funds in search of yield. But does a higher return always signal a smart play, or are investors overlooking the fine print? Wanjiru Gichuru, CEO of Pergamon Investment Bank, joins the podcast to break down the surge in special funds, the mechanics of seeking higher returns, and the critical safeguards every investor needs to navigate this complex landscape.

As geopolitics fuels market uncertainty, investors are turning to gold and silver as safe-haven assets. In this episode, Tito Namu of Absa Securities outlines the investment case for precious metals, unpacks the key drivers of price movements and explains how investors can access gold through the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

Bitcoin, the world's largest cryptocurrency, is facing its most brutal credibility test yet. Prices have dropped by nearly half from the all-time high of $126,000 recorded in October 2025, rattling investors and reviving doubts about the durability of digital assets.Yet Bitcoin has survived several dramatic crashes before, each time staging a comeback that strengthened its supporters' belief in the technology. So, is this just another crypto cycle or a warning sign that the market may be entering a deeper downturn?In this episode of Make Money, we speak to techpreneur and crypto enthusiast Theo Mwangi about what is driving the latest sell-off, whether investor confidence is shifting and what the future may hold for Bitcoin and the wider cryptocurrency market.

In this episode, Theo Capital founder and chairman Eric Ruenji reflects on the first two years leading up to the launch of shares trading on the mobile money platform M-Pesa. He discusses the cold approaches to senior executives, the regulatory and operational hurdles, and the lessons learnt from developing the Ziidi Trader platform

After an 11-year listing drought on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) is finally breaking the ice. Its initial public offering (IPO) is here, but with a Sh9-per-share entry point, is it cheap, or just affordable? How do you discern a good deal from the "froth" in the market? In this special episode of Make Money, Wesley Manambo, Senior Research Analyst at Standard Investment Bank (SIB), breaks down the fundamentals of the KPC deal to help you separate the wheat from the chaff.

Commercial banks are aggressively pursuing affluent investors, using their cross-market expertise to position themselves as wealth managers, not just lenders. In this episode presented by Standard Chartered Bank Kenya, Ouma Orero and Khushboo Dhutia explore what defines an affluent investor, why banks are winning over traditional fund managers and how aspiring wealthy Kenyans can access wealth management services earlier in their financial journey.

The year is coming to an end, but the market never rests. As the season wraps up, we turn our attention to the one question every serious investor is asking: Where exactly will the money be flowing in 2026?Macroeconomics analyst Stellar Swakei joins us to share a comprehensive, early outlook. In this episode, she will:• Explain the key macro-factors and risks that are about to redefine the investment landscape.• Share an early outlook on the most promising asset class for the new year.• Outline the non-negotiable strategies you must implement now to secure your wealth and maximise returns.

As 2025 wraps up, Make Money takes a look at the wins of the year. We break down the top-performing asset classes and sectors and analyse the macroeconomic forces, policy shifts, and global trends that propelled their success.We are joined by IC Group economist Churchill Ogutu.

November is synonymous with deep discounts, but the savings aren't just limited to electronics, appliances and groceries. For savvy investors, the 'Black November' season offers an opportunity to hunt for bargain investments.In this episode, Wesley Manambo, a Senior Research Associate at Standard Investment Bank (SIB), walks us through the essential process of identifying undervalued asset (a bargain) from a simply cheap one (a trap). Discover how to effectively bargain hunt in your investment portfolio.

The global market rally, largely fueled by Artificial Intelligence (AI), is showing classic signs of exuberance and over-valuation. Can this momentum in offshore markets like the US truly be sustained, or is a major correction on the horizon? For Kenyan investors, this is not just a foreign story — it affects an estimated Sh50 billion in local funds held in offshore securities. Jubilee Asset Management Portfolio Manager Dorcas Mwangi breaks down the critical stages of a market bubble, identifies the red flags investors must watch for, and advises on how to protect your portfolio before the panic begins.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries, boosting productivity while threatening to make some jobs obsolete. In this episode, we explore whether AI can truly replace human financial advisors. WealthPro Africa Founder and CEO Victor Marangu joins us to unpack how AI is reshaping investing, what it gets right, and where human insight still matters most.

Local stocks have emerged as the top-returning asset class of 2025 by a significant margin (an accounting mile), reigniting massive retail investor interest in the Nairobi Securities Exchange.This episode is we break down everything you need to know to capitalise on this boom – from opening a CDS (Central Depository System) and trading account, placing the first trade, and understanding how the system works.Joining us is Sheila Wambui, Research Analyst at AIB-AXYS Africa, who walks us through the process, answers the most common beginner questions and shares practical tips for navigating the market confidently.

The Nairobi Securities Exchange has recorded back-to-back gains of more than 30 percent in 2024 and again so far in 2025, buoying investor confidence and lifting portfolio values. But for those who stayed on the sidelines, is it too late to join the rally?In this episode, NSE Chief Executive Officer Frank Mwiti breaks down the key drivers of the market recovery, where fresh opportunities remain, and what investors should watch as the momentum continues.

Customers are no longer just looking for loans and savings anymore; they demand a one-stop shop for all their financial needs. This puts commercial banks under pressure to expand beyond their traditional roles and deliver a full suite of financial services. But can lenders evolve into true financial supermarkets?Moses Muthui, Director of Consumer Banking at Absa Bank Kenya Plc, joins us to discuss the future of banking and whether this all-in-one model is a customer dream or a business reality.

We all chase high returns, but what about the costs? Investment fees, commissions, and charges can quietly erode your gains. What's a reasonable cost of investing—and when do the charges start to hurt your portfolio?Lydia Muriuki, Senior Relationship Manager at Standard Investment Bank (SIB), joins us to pull back the curtain on these costs. She unpacks the different types of investment fees, how they impact your returns, and how to keep them in check.

Did you know government bonds can give you a pay cheque every month? While the Treasury papers typically pay out interest just twice a year, smart investors use the bond laddering strategy for steady income each month.In this episode, we're climbing the "bond ladder" with financial advisor and founder of Azara Wealth, Belinda Kiplimo. She breaks down how to build a bond portfolio — a "ladder"— where each step brings in reliable cash flow all year round.

The windfall returns of 2024 from Treasury bills, government bonds, and money market funds appears to have ended. With yields drifting lower, investors are being forced to rethink how they position their portfolios.Naomi Atera, a corporate finance analyst at Rock Advisors, says this means leaning into riskier asset classes, particularly equities listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

From being primarily consumers of global goods and services, Kenyans are increasingly seeking a stake in international capital markets. Ndovu Wealth Management Co-Founder and CEO Radhika Bhachu explains the growing appetite for offshore investments and how fund managers are adapting to this shift.

Fund Managers Association chief executive officer Fred Mburu introduced the first Money Market Fund to Kenya back in 2003, 22 years later, MMFs which are part of collective investment schemes have nearly Sh600 billion assets. The industry pioneer reflects on what it has taken to grow the asset class and looks forward to the future

Disenfranchised and bruised by a decade with little to no listings and falling share prices, many investors have chosen to stay out of the NSE and do not regard the stock market as a place to make money, but can one still make a return? Standard Investment Bank (SIB) Snr. Research Associate Wesley Manambo takes on the dilemma.

Description: Your home will likely be the most valuable asset held over a lifetime. Steep land and property prices have however turned home ownership to be aspirational rather than a realistic goal. RentScore Africa Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Christabel Ojuok presents affordable home loans as the hack to home ownership.

Jaza Retail Founder Willy Kimani details his journey jumping the ship from working for nationwide retailers Uchumi, Tuskys & Naivas to creating his own retail business. He shares his highs and lows founding and running a business after full-time employment

Shrinking formal jobs and the desire for personal freedoms has pushed more Kenyans into starting their own businesses. More Kenyans are now founding their own businesses while starting an enterprise, ranks as the top financial goal. Tala Kenya General Manager Ann Stella Mumbi offers a deep dive of the entrepreneurial savvy Kenyan on this episode of the Make Money podcast

Alfred Mathu, a lifelong financial advisor, discusses the place of insurance in investing including whether insurance equals investing and why insurance has traditionally been sold and not bought.

Over seven million Kenyans have placed their trust in the Sacco movement relying on it for savings and credit. The Kuscco scandal has however shocked the system as Saccos stare at losses in the billions of shillings. This episode looks at the State of the Sacco movement from the lenses of Harambee Sacco chief executive officer Dr. George Ochiri.

Returns from unit trusts popularly known as MMFs have fallen over the last six months, testing the appeal of the asset class. But will investors stay in or seek alternatives? Etica Capital Co-Founder Kenneth Maina discusses the changing landscape for MMFs and fund managers

How can you ensure that the wealth you create outlasts your lifetime? Head of Affluent Banking at Stanbic Bank Kenya, Doreen Ratemo discusses wealth management including strategies to deploy and common pitfalls​.

Discover how Samsung Galaxy AI is setting the trend with the new Galaxy S25! Dive into our exclusive interview to explore the future of AI technology and how it's redefining the smartphone experience.

March presents the opportunity for NSE stocks owners to reap big from expected higher earnings in key sectors such as banking and enhanced dividends. What's on the cards? Wesley Manambo who completes a hattrick of appearances on the Make Money podcast chats-earnings season.

Capital A Investment Bank Senior Research Analyst Ronny Chokaa discusses the allure of infrastructure bonds (highest returns, zero taxes) in detail ahead of the close of February's IFB auction as Make Money the podcast returns for a fourth season

Africa's construction industry is on the rise, yet challenges like skilled labor shortages, safety risks, and low electrification continue to hold it back. In this episode, Kepha Muiruri sits down with Umair Shahzad, Commercial Director at Stanley Black & Decker, to discuss innovative solutions powering the industry's growth. Discover how DEWALT's cutting-edge technologies are redefining productivity, efficiency, and safety on job sites across the continent. Tune in to explore the transformation shaping Africa's construction future.

From Alikiba's Mac Muga to Jay Z's Story of O.J. music has proven to go beyond just entertainment to dissertations on money and wealth creation. This episode brings out some of these lessons alongside guest DJ Kyembo

In this special episode of the Make Money podcast, Zeynab Wandati, Nation Media Group's Sustainability Editor, engages in an insightful conversation with Charles Wokabi, Absa's Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs. Together, they unpack Absa's sustainability journey, highlighting the bank's ambitious commitment to planting 10 million trees by 2032, their progress of 700,000 trees planted so far, and the role of the financial sector in driving Kenya's sustainability agenda.Charles shares the bank's strategies for achieving net zero status and why sustainability is more than a buzzword—it's a business imperative for Kenya's economic and environmental future. Tune in to discover how Absa is integrating sustainability into its operations and leading the charge toward a greener Kenya.This episode is proudly sponsored by Absa.

The allure of minting millions from currency and commodities trading has been irresistible for most even as colossal pitfalls persist including account wipeouts and scams. FX Pesa Research and Market Analyst Rufas Kamau walks through the trading journey separating the wheat from chaff.

Banks have swam in billions by paying little to nothing for customer deposits. An increasingly savvy consumer has however threatened to ditch the lenders and take their money elsewhere begging the question whether one should keep money in the bank. Faida Investment Bank Operations Director Rina Hicks looks at the pros and cons of banking your cash.

Description: Your home will likely be the most valuable asset held over a lifetime. Steep land and property prices have however turned home ownership to be aspirational rather than a realistic goal. RentScore Africa Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Christabel Ojuok presents affordable home loans as the hack to home ownership.

Left alone, invested cash will grow in leap and bounds as compounding works its magic. However, many lack the patience, losing out on the gains of just staying at bay. Purity Wanjiru, Research Analyst-Financial Markets & Investments at Abojani Investments discussed the psychology of patience in investing and the power of compound interest

The Kenyan shilling has shed its lack-lustre display from last year, to record gains against the US dollar and other major world currencies. As the shilling becomes 'great again' is there a case for buying/investing in dollars? Senior Portfolio Manager at Jubilee Asset Management Limited Cliff Bakashaba probes.

Disenfranchised and bruised by a decade with little to no listings and falling share prices, many investors have chosen to stay out of the NSE and do not regard the stock market as a place to make money, but can one still make a return? Standard Investment Bank (SIB) Snr. Research Associate Wesley Manambo takes on the dilemma.

The sweet returns on MMFs, bonds and fixed deposits have reached their peaks as interest rates move lower. IC Asset Managers Economist Churchill Ogutu discusses what a lower return means for your investment and how to navigate falling interest rates

Money market funds (MMFs) and other unit trusts are booming, with over 1.2 million Kenyans investing and more than Sh254 billion in assets under management. But what makes these pooled investments like these so attractive? Investment advisor Belinda Kiplimo breaks it down—exploring how unit trusts work and the role of fund managers.

Are government securities truly risk free? Nearly Sh800 billion of Kenya's Sh5.5 trillion government domestic debt is held by individual investors. With such significant exposure, concerns about a potential government payment default are becoming increasingly relevant. Despite the high returns offered by government bonds—outperforming all other asset classes—are we overlooking the risks? Have we invested too much trust in these bonds?In this episode of Make Money, join us as we explore the balance between risk and reward in government bonds, with insights from Stellar Swakei, Senior Research Associate at Standard Investment Bank (SIB).

Pursue a postgraduate degree? Start a business? Invest? Juggling unlimited needs and goals with limited resources creates a challenging dilemma, where every choice carries an opportunity cost.Economist and lecturer at St Paul's University, Edward Kusewa, delves into the intricacies of investments amidst this very dilemma.

In this episode of Make Money podcast, we delve into the pros and cons of consumer credit through the lens of the Buy Now Pay Later movement. We discuss this trend, which has gained popularity in the purchase of electronics and consumer durables, with Lipa Later Country Manager, Claudine Gakundi.