EXPERTS SEEK STRONGER CAPITAL MARKET FUNDING FOR SMES

Financial market experts have called for deeper reforms and improved access to long-term funding for small and medium-sized enterprises to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market.

The experts spoke at the 30th Anniversary Symposium of the Association of Issuing Houses of Nigeria in Lagos, where they reviewed developments in the market and opportunities for future growth.

Group Managing Director of Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke, said regulatory reforms needed to keep pace with innovation and changing business conditions.

He also called for greater support for SMEs to formalise their operations, improve corporate governance and become capable of accessing long-term capital.

Other speakers highlighted the need for continued legislative reforms, noting that the long gap between major capital market laws could make it harder for regulation to keep pace with technology.

Experts also identified digitalisation, artificial intelligence, sustainable finance and emerging investment products as areas requiring regulatory adaptation.

They said stronger corporate governance and proper financial reporting would be important for businesses seeking to raise funds through the capital market.

The President of AIHN, Kemi Awodein, said the association’s 30th anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the contribution of issuing houses to capital mobilisation.

Participants called for a more inclusive and competitive capital market capable of supporting SMEs, infrastructure and emerging sectors.