Rising geopolitical tensions, volatile currencies, and fragmented regulations are prompting investors to rethink where and how they allocate capital. At the same time, African leaders and International Financial Centres (IFCs) are leveraging the moment to strengthen the continent’s financial autonomy, according to industry leaders.
From cross-border capital flows to real-time payments and risk management, the focus is on scaling homegrown innovation and ensuring that Africa’s money stays within the continent, turning financial inclusion into genuine economic self-reliance.
Joe Moynihan, the Chief Executive Officer at Jersey Finance, a financial institution, said that today’s investors are not only seeking returns but also stability, security, and technological readiness, reflecting a broader emphasis on protecting wealth and adapting to digital transformation.
“While investors have always sought returns, today the focus is increasingly on regulatory stability, professional service standards, and the security of assets. Geopolitical uncertainty has made these factors far more important than they were a decade ago,” said Moynihan.
“Investors want to ensure that their wealth, structures, and family assets are protected in jurisdictions with reliable governance and high standards.”
Akeem Lawal, the Managing Director for Payment Processing at Interswitch, a digital payment company, added that technological change and digital transformation are also shaping investor decisions.
“Investors are looking at how organizations handle new technology platforms, data governance, and digital infrastructure. These considerations are as important as traditional factors like legislation or market stability.”
Experts highlighted the dual role of IFCs as both competitive and collaborative hubs in the financial ecosystem. By providing a shared platform for investors, regulators, and fintech innovators, IFCs are uniquely positioned to bridge gaps between fragmented markets and fragmented regulations.
IFCs offer standardized frameworks, professional services, and technological infrastructure that foster trust and efficiency, enabling investors to navigate complexity while promoting cross-border collaboration. In doing so, IFCs help create a more cohesive financial environment where both local and international players can thrive,” said Daniel Mainda, CEO of the Nairobi International Financial Centre.
Moynihan noted that while centres often compete for capital, collaboration is key to meeting diverse investor needs.
“Investors have different interests and see different opportunities across jurisdictions. Collaboration allows us to harmonize standards, share knowledge, and create an environment where capital can flow efficiently across Africa and beyond.”
Hortense Mudenge, Chief Executive Officer of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), said that the challenges of scaling innovative solutions across African markets can be overcome through greater understanding and collaboration among all stakeholders.
“The continent has no shortage of technical expertise or innovation, but many solutions struggle to expand due to fragmented markets and regulatory complexities. The real value lies in supporting these solutions to scale, enabling real-time payments across borders, improving risk management, and addressing capital outflows,” Mudenge said.
“By standardizing licensing, regulations, and investment procedures across jurisdictions, IFCs can simplify cross-border transactions and attract both local and international investors.”
We can create an environment where capital moves efficiently, securely, and transparently if we bring regulators, policymakers, and investors together.
Leaders also highlighted that Africa’s international financial centres are more than mere gateways for investment. They are catalysts for a pan-African financial ecosystem that fosters collaboration, harmonization, and sustainable growth amid a rapidly shifting global environment.
“If we can align our infrastructure, regulation, and investor confidence, Africa will not only attract capital but will control and deploy it for its own development,” said Lawal.
