Economy

Mergers, Acquisitions Activity Drops Sharply in Africa in H1 2018—Report

Published

8 years ago

13/07/2018

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

An analysis by Baker McKenzie of Thomson Reuters M&A data for Africa has revealed that in the first half of 2018, the total deal volumes and values of Merger & Acquisition (M&A) transactions in Africa fell sharply by 44 percent in deal volume and 57 percent in aggregate value, compared with the first half of 2017.

The report noted that there were 485 deals valued at $19.420 million in the first half of 2017, this dropped to 270 deals valued at $8.318 million in H1 2018.

On a positive note, intraregional cross-border deals rose twofold in terms of aggregate value from $418 million in the first half of 2017 to $1.292 million in H1 2018.

Managing Partner and Head of the Corporate/M&A Practice at Baker McKenzie in Johannesburg, Mr Morne van der Merwe, in an emailed statement made available to Business Post on Thursday, explained that, “Africa is a continent with 54 different countries, all with different economies and so it is difficult to pin down specifically what has caused the downturn in M&A activity in the first half of the year.

“Generally, inbound investment in Africa has been affected by political uncertainty and unpredictability – business does not mind challenge but has no affinity for uncertainty.

“Corruption and bad governance, as well as the strict anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws in some investor countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, has made investors more cautious.”

Intraregional trade

“Despite the downturn in M&A transactions, it appears that regional economies are developing and intraregional trade is doing well. East Africa is developing a strong regional focus and had almost left the Southern African region behind, although this region has come back onto the radar of late,” Mr van der Merwe noted.

He explained further that certain economies such as Ethiopia are becoming more of a discussion point as popular investor destinations in Africa because of interesting development initiatives taking place in this country.

The majority of the intraregional deals in Africa were in the High Technology Sector (cutting edge or advanced technology) which accounted for 21 percent of all deals. Interregional dealmaking value was highest in the financial sector which made up 82 percent of the total value.

There were four High Technology intraregional deals in Africa in the first half of 2018. Intraregional deals in the financial sector in H1 2018 were worth $1.056 million.

Mr Van der Merwe disclosed that the financial services sector, especially banks and insurance companies have been deploying various models for their expansion into Africa, including regionally focused strategies.

“Lessons I have picked up from these markets include that having the right local partner remains key to being successful in Africa and that it is important it to think twice before you impose your brand on a market where you have recently made an acquisition.

“This is because you may change the recently acquired company from what had made it successful in the first place. Keeping the local brand and management in place has worked very well for some in the financial services sector who have expanded into Africa,” he noted.

Mr Van der Merwe explained that events such as Barclays withdrawing from Africa had left many wondering how a financial giant like Absa would rethink its strategy and possible expansion into Africa, and it will be interesting to follow the unfolding of their strategy to position themselves as an African Bank.

“I think that expanding into the continent and having a regional approach as part of that expansion is something they are most likely thinking about very carefully,” he said.

He noted that the growth in investment in both the financial services sector and the technology sector in Africa are interlinked. Financial services organisations are becoming more dependent on investment in technology and innovation as they look to upgrade their IT systems and find news way to grow their customer bases.

Inbound

In terms of inbound cross-border transactions with other regions, Industrials was the most popular by deal volume (16 percent share of the total) with 16 deals completed in the first half of the year. Energy & Power attracted the highest share of aggregate deal value (35 percent of the total value), with deals valued at $1.493 million.

“The industrials sector is a focus area for many developing economies across the continent and the sector is well established, leading to many more opportunities than one would find in less well established sectors,” he said.

Mr Van der Merwe explained also that the extent of the power deficit in Africa is well known and increasing electricity generation, whether on-grid or off-grid, across the continent is the focus of a number of initiatives, all of which are driving investment.

In terms of foreign investors, the United States (US) was the most acquisitive in Africa, representing 18 percent of deal volume and 39 percent of deal value. The US completed 18 deals in Africa in H1 2018, worth $1.694 million.

“The US has been a significant investor in the African continent for some time. Trump’s policies have played out well for certain countries in Africa and the relationship between the US and Africa is very much focused on strategic bilateral relationships influencing the direction of investment flow,” he noted.

Outbound

In terms of outbound deals, High Technology had the highest volume of outbound interregional cross-border deals (13 percent of total deals). There were eight outbound deals in the High Technology sector in the first half of the year. Real Estate accounted for the highest share in aggregate value at 27 percent of total value of outbound deals. This sector completed $430 million worth of deals in H1 2018.

“The high number of outbound technology deals from Africa is because African tech companies are targeting offshore investments in companies that will deepen their access to new technologies, markets and talent,” he said.

The real estate sector attains prominence because of relative value of real estate as an asset class.

“As economies develop, so does real the estate sector. For example, the expanding middle class and consumerism in Africa has led to a growth in the consumer goods sector and real estate development is part of that as new shopping centres are developed.

“Also, African infrastructure development is high on the agenda across the continent and there is a big real estate element associated with that as well,” he explained.

The UK had the highest number of investors from Africa during the period H1 2018 (20 percent share), with 12 deals being completed in the first half of the year. India was the most attractive market in terms of value (46 percent of total value). African dealmakers completed transactions worth $735 million in India in H1 2018.

“The ease of doing business with the UK brought about by various factors, including, time zones, easy access, language, historical ties and familiarity has meant that investment between the UK and numerous African countries has always been good. Brexit has impacted positively on investment in that it has caused UK trade outreach initiatives to various historic trade partners,” Mr van der Merwe explained.

“With regards to India being a popular investment destination for African businesses to invest, this is because like Africa, India is a developing economy. African investors are astute in seeking out opportunities in these economies because the environment and challenges are often similar, or at least comparable.

“This makes it easier to build a relationship with local partners, which is so necessary for successful investment.

“India is also a very large economy and so huge opportunities can be accessed for investors who know where to look.

“In addition, historical ties between India and many countries in Africa adds to the familiarity and relative ease of doing business,” he added.

Economy

A $108 Welcome Bonus Is Helping More Users Explore Cloud-Based Crypto Access in 2026 as Major Digital Assets Remain in Focus

Published

7 hours ago

21/04/2026

Dipo Olowookere

As the digital asset market continues to expand, more users are paying attention not only to which cryptocurrencies are trending, but also to how they can take part in the market with less complexity. For many people, traditional mining has started to feel too expensive, too technical, and too demanding to manage. That is why cloud-based participation is becoming more visible as a practical alternative.

In this environment, BM Blockchain is attracting attention as a platform designed to simplify crypto participation. By offering new users a $108 welcome bonus, the platform is creating a more appealing first step for people who want to explore digital asset opportunities without dealing with hardware ownership, complicated setup, or long-term maintenance.

Why More Users Want a Simpler Path Into Crypto

Interest in digital assets remains strong, but many users no longer want to enter the market through methods that require specialized machines and technical expertise. Traditional mining often involves high upfront equipment costs, electricity use, cooling demands, and continuous system management. These challenges can make direct participation difficult for people who are curious about crypto but do not want the operational burden.

Cloud-based models help change that experience. By allowing users to access participation through an online structure instead of running hardware themselves, they make the process feel more manageable and less intimidating. For many users, that shift is becoming one of the most important reasons to consider cloud-based crypto access in 2026.

This approach can be especially attractive because it offers:

a more accessible starting point
less technical responsibility
no need to purchase and manage hardware
easier access to crypto-related participation
more flexibility when following different digital asset stories

Why Bitcoin, XRP, Ethereum, and Dogecoin Still Matter

Even as participation models evolve, user attention continues to center on a few major digital asset names.

Bitcoin remains the most recognized mining-related asset in the market and continues to shape how many people think about crypto participation. Its long-standing market position makes it the reference point for many users exploring digital assets.

XRP remains highly visible because of its familiarity and strong public recognition. For many users, it feels easier to follow than more technical blockchain narratives, which helps it maintain broad appeal.

Ethereum continues to matter because of its importance to blockchain utility, smart contracts, and the wider crypto ecosystem. It remains one of the strongest technology-linked narratives in the market.

Dogecoin continues to attract attention because of its approachable image, broad retail popularity, and strong public visibility. It remains one of the most familiar crypto stories for everyday users.

Together, these digital assets show why the market continues to attract a wide range of participants. Some users are drawn by mining history, some by utility, some by familiarity, and others by community-driven popularity. What many now share, however, is a growing interest in simpler participation methods.

Why Cloud-Based Participation Feels More Relevant in 2026

One of the biggest changes in the market is that users are paying more attention to convenience. Instead of focusing only on price movements or older mining models, they are also comparing how easy a platform feels to use. This is where cloud-based participation has gained an advantage.

Rather than requiring users to become equipment operators, cloud-based platforms give them a route into the market through a simpler and more service-led format. That makes the experience feel closer to a digital platform model than a technical infrastructure project. In 2026, this difference is becoming more important as new users look for ways to participate without facing unnecessary complexity.

How BM Blockchain Positions Itself

BM Blockchain is aligning itself with this trend by emphasizing easier onboarding and a more accessible participation model. Instead of asking users to take on the full burden of traditional mining, the platform presents a cloud-based structure designed to lower barriers from the beginning.

This may be especially appealing to users who want exposure to major digital asset themes such as Bitcoin, XRP, Ethereum, and Dogecoin while avoiding the technical demands of direct mining. By reducing friction and simplifying entry, BM Blockchain presents itself as a more approachable option for people exploring digital assets for the first time.

The $108 Bonus Adds More Value at the Start

For many first-time users, a welcome incentive can make the difference between passive interest and actual registration. BM Blockchain’s $108 welcome bonus gives new users a clear reason to explore how the platform works and what cloud-based participation can offer.

BM Blockchain’s $108 welcome bonus

In a competitive market, this kind of onboarding benefit can help reduce hesitation, create a stronger first impression, and make the platform feel more worthwhile from the beginning. It also reinforces the broader message that entering crypto does not always need to start with complexity.

Conclusion

The digital asset market is becoming more accessible as user expectations continue to change. More people are now looking for flexible and convenient ways to explore crypto opportunities without the operational burden of traditional mining.

As Bitcoin, XRP, Ethereum, and Dogecoin continue to hold user attention in 2026, cloud-based participation models are becoming increasingly relevant for those who want a simpler route into the market. With its cloud-based structure and $108 welcome bonus for new users, BM Blockchain is positioning itself as a practical choice for people who want to explore digital asset opportunities through a more manageable path.

Economy

NASD Index Starts Week Strong with 0.52% Growth

Published

9 hours ago

21/04/2026

Adedapo Adesanya

By Adedapo Adesanya

It was green for the NASD Over-the-Counter (OTC) Securities Exchange on Monday, April 20, as it recorded a 0.52 per cent appreciation.

During the session, the NASD Unlisted Security Index (NSI) added 20.31 points to close at 3,913.46 points compared with last Friday’s 3,893.15 points, and the market capitalisation went up by N12.15 billion to close at N2.341 trillion versus the previous N2.329 trillion.

Yesterday, there were five price gainers led by MRS Oil Plc, which added N19.75 to sell at N217.50 per share compared with the previous price of N197.75 per share. Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc appreciated by N1.02 to trade at N59.02 per unit versus N58.00 per unit, IPWA Plc grew by 66 Kobo to N7.27 per share from N6.61 per share, Lighthouse Financial Services Plc increased by 7 Kobo to 79 Kobo per unit from 72 Kobo per unit, and Industrial and General Insurance (IGI) Plc chalked up 3 Kobo to sell at 66 Kobo per share versus 63 Kobo per share.

Data from Monday’s trading session showed that the volume of securities traded rose by 86.4 per cent to 245,830 units from 131,870 units, but the value of securities slowed by 37.2 per cent to N11.1 million from N17.8 million, while the number of deals remained unchanged at 24 deals.

The most traded stock by value on a year-to-date basis was Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Plc with 3.4 billion units worth N8.4 billion, followed by CSCS Plc with 58.8 million units sold for N4.0 billion, and Okitipupa Plc with 27.8 million units transacted for N1.9 billion.

Similarly, the traded stock by volume on a year-to-date basis was GNI Plc with 3.4 billion units traded for N8.4 billion, trailed by Resourcery Plc with 1.1 billion units valued at N415.7 million, and Infrastructure Guarantee Credit Plc with 400 million units exchanged for N1.2 billion.

Economy

Naira Loses N6 to Trade at N1,349 Per Dollar at Official FX Market

Published

10 hours ago

21/04/2026

Adedapo Adesanya

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Naira depreciated against the United States Dollar in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEX) on Monday, April 20, by N6.03 or 0.45 per cent to close at N1,349.67/$1, in contrast to the previous session’s N1,343.64/$1.

In the same vein, the local currency also fell against the Pound Sterling in the trading first session of the week by N2.39 in the official FX market to trade at N1,826.78/£1 compared with the N1,824.39/£1 it was exchanged for last Friday, but appreciated against the Euro by N1.76 to finish at N1,589.38/€1 versus N1,591.14/€1.

A look at the black market window showed that the Nigerian Naira traded flat against the US Dollar yesterday at N1,375/$1, but appreciated by N1 at the GTBank forex counter to sell at N1,354/$1 compared with the preceding session’s N1,355/$1.

The Naira is under pressure from surging international payments at the start of the week, which is expected to put further pressure on the country’s foreign reserve. The reserve is expected to decline further amid fluctuations in crude oil prices in the global commodity market.

The US Dollar is showing slight strength globally due to rising tensions between the US and Iran. Investors are moving towards safer assets like the Dollar because of uncertainty in the Middle East. The situation is tense as Iran has pulled out of talks with the US, and concerns remain about the Strait of Hormuz, an important route for global oil supply.

As for the cryptocurrency market, digital assets were largely up as markets bet on progress in cease-fire talks between Iran and the US, even as the current two-week truce nears its Wednesday deadline.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he is not likely to extend it, and market analysts noted that that’s the deadline markets are now trading on.

Solana (SOL) gained 2.0 per cent to sell at $85.64, Bitcoin (BTC) jumped by 1.9 per cent to $75,791.24, Ripple (XRP) increased by 1.9 per cent to $1.43, and Binance Coin (BNB) rose by 1.8 per cent to $630.76.

Further, Ethereum (ETH) improved by 1.7 per cent to $2,311.60, Cardano (ADA) soared by 1.6 per cent to $0.2490, and Dogecoin (DOGE) expanded by 1.3 per cent to $0.0954, while TRON (TRX) depreciated by 0.9 per cent to $0.3286, with the US Dollar Tether (USDT) and the US Dollar Coin (USDC) unchanged at $1.00 apiece.