Exchange-Traded Funds in Africa—Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

The exchange-traded fund (ETF) picture in Africa is a study of contrasts. The South African ETF market is relatively developed with 31 ETFs listed and approximately USD 4.75 billion in assets under management. However, Africa (ex-South Africa) has only three ETFs currently listed, and all three are secondary listings of ETFs with a primary listing in South Africa. This article briefly discusses the reasons behind this low level of penetration of ETFs in the African (ex-South Africa) markets, challenges experienced in introducing ETFs into the African markets, as well as the opportunities that ETFs can bring.