In a bold move set to transform East Africa’s investment landscape, Valour Inc., a subsidiary of DeFi Technologies Inc., has appointed GulfCap Investment Bank as its official transaction advisor for cross-listing its exchange-traded products (ETPs) on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). The proposed listing will allow local investors to trade Valour’s regulated digital asset products using the Kenyan Shilling, marking a key step toward greater accessibility and innovation in the region’s capital markets.
Valour’s strategic partnership with GulfCap not only brings cutting-edge digital financial products to Kenyan investors but also aligns with broader trends in fintech-driven financial inclusion. With GulfCap’s deep regional expertise and proven track record in cross-border transactions, this collaboration is poised to usher in a new era of regulated digital asset exposure in East Africa’s most active investment hub.
Opening Doors to Regulated Digital Asset Access in Kenya
The cross-listing of Valour’s ETPs on the NSE represents a significant advancement in providing Kenyan investors with safe, secure, and simplified access to leading digital assets. This strategic move ensures that investors do not need to navigate foreign markets or currencies to diversify their portfolios with cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based investment products. Instead, they will have access to these assets in local currency under the oversight of Kenya’s Capital Markets Authority (CMA).
With over 65 digital asset ETPs already traded across major European exchanges such as Germany’s Xetra and Sweden’s Spotlight, Valour is bringing its trusted, regulated offerings to one of Africa’s most dynamic financial ecosystems. This initiative will resonate with a tech-savvy, digital-first generation of investors who seek innovative, alternative investment opportunities that are fully compliant with local regulations.
GulfCap’s Role as Lead Transaction Advisor
As a licensed investment bank regulated by the CMA, GulfCap Investment Bank is ideally positioned to lead this cross-listing endeavor. GulfCap will manage every stage of the process—including regulatory coordination, due diligence, legal documentation, investor engagement, and eventual listing on the NSE. Their involvement ensures that all aspects of the cross-listing meet both local and international standards, aligning with best practices in governance and investor protection.
GulfCap’s expertise in managing cross-border capital markets transactions will be invaluable in creating a seamless pathway for Valour’s ETPs to enter the Kenyan market. Their deep understanding of the regulatory landscape in Kenya enhances the likelihood of successful approval by the CMA and execution on the NSE.
Strategic Impact on Regional Capital Markets
The partnership between Valour and GulfCap signals a more significant shift in the regional financial sector—where traditional finance is beginning to converge with decentralized financial technologies. By introducing institutional-grade digital asset products in local markets, the collaboration supports ongoing efforts to modernize African capital markets and expand financial inclusion.
For Kenya, which already ranks among the top digital asset adopters in Africa, the cross-listing of Valour’s ETPs strengthens its position as a regional leader in fintech and digital innovation. Investors now have the chance to diversify their portfolios with products that are globally recognized and locally accessible, all within a fully regulated environment.
Defi Technologies’ Global Vision and Local Execution
As the parent company of Valour, DeFi Technologies has consistently focused on bridging the divide between decentralized finance and mainstream financial markets. Through its presence on major exchanges such as Cboe Canada, the company has already demonstrated a commitment to compliance, transparency, and innovation. This same vision now extends to Kenya through Valour’s collaboration with GulfCap.
According to Andrew Forson, President of DeFi Technologies and Chief Growth Officer of Valour, the decision to partner with GulfCap was driven by their unmatched experience and local insight. This partnership aligns perfectly with Valour’s long-term mission to expand secure access to digital assets across emerging markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Valour ETPs, and how do they work?
Valour ETPs (Exchange-Traded Products) are regulated investment vehicles that track the performance of digital assets, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. They allow investors to gain exposure to crypto assets without directly holding them.
Why is the cross-listing on the NSE significant?
It enables Kenyan investors to trade Valour’s digital asset products in Kenyan Shillings on a locally regulated exchange, increasing accessibility and compliance.
What role does GulfCap Investment Bank play in this process?
GulfCap is the lead transaction advisor, handling regulatory approval, documentation, due diligence, investor communication, and listing execution.
Are these investment products safe and regulated?
Yes. Valour’s ETPs are fully hedged and already listed on regulated European exchanges. The cross-listing will adhere to the guidelines of the Kenyan Capital Markets Authority (CMA).
How will this impact Kenyan investors?
It offers them a new, regulated way to diversify into digital assets using local currency and through a familiar exchange, broadening financial inclusion.
Conclusion
Valour’s collaboration with GulfCap marks a significant leap in digital asset adoption and financial innovation in East Africa. By offering local, regulated access to its global suite of exchange-traded products (ETPs), the partnership opens new pathways for Kenyan investors to explore digital markets. With strong regulatory alignment and strategic execution, this initiative is poised to redefine how digital finance is adopted across the continent.
