Rockview Monthly – September 2025

The Rockview Monthly – October 2025 edition by Rock Advisors Research Department offers a comprehensive look at global, regional, and Kenyan market trends shaping investment decisions this quarter.

Global equities advanced strongly in September, led by growth sectors such as AI, semiconductors, and cloud computing, following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s first rate cut of the year. Across Africa, markets like Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria posted impressive year-to-date gains, supported by policy reforms and stable currencies.

In Kenya, business activity rebounded with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rising to 51.9, signaling renewed private-sector confidence. Inflation remained steady at 4.6%, aided by lower fuel prices and stable food costs. The Automobile & Accessories sector led local market gains, while the Banking Sector saw key policy shifts expected to enhance credit access and lending efficiency.

The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) continued its bullish run, supported by strong investor appetite for undervalued stocks and longer-term bonds. Rock Advisors maintains a positive outlook on key counters such as KCB, Equity Group, and I&M Bank, alongside select opportunities in real estate and infrastructure.

Stay informed with detailed insights, sector analysis, and investment outlooks in our full report.

Rock Advisors_Rockview Monthly – October 2025

26044

Banking Sector H1’25 Report

Banking Sector H1’25 Report

Overview
Our H1 2025 Banking Sector Report presents an in-depth analysis of Kenya’s financial institutions amid evolving macroeconomic conditions and shifting capital markets. The report highlights resilient fundamentals, robust capital buffers, and compelling valuations that position the sector for sustainable earnings growth and dividend stability.

Key Highlights

  • Positive Sector Outlook: We maintain a “Buy” recommendation on the Kenyan banking sector, supported by strong profitability and solid capital adequacy levels across major lenders.
  • Attractive Valuations: The sector trades at a P/TBV of 0.74x, below its historical average of 0.94x, presenting significant upside potential.
  • Dividend Strength: Yields range between 6.6%–11.4%, with banks maintaining consistent payout histories.
  • Diversifying Revenue Streams: Leading institutions are expanding into investment banking and asset management, enhancing fee income and return on equity.
  • Key Risks: Elevated non-performing loans (NPLs) and foreign exchange margin compression could pressure short-term profitability, though mitigated by prudent risk management and strengthened provisions.
  • Top Picks: Equity Group (EQTY) and KCB Group (KCB) stand out as Strong Buy opportunities, supported by superior expected returns of 29.4% and 25.9%, respectively.

Download Full Report

26044

Economic Outlook 2024

Leading companies are adding new talent to support a digital operating model. To develop sharp insights using digital tools, procurement teams will need data science and analytics expertise.