The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has licensed two intermediary service platform providers and a dealing online forex broker.

In a public notice released on December 22nd, 2025, CMA announced the approval of Safaricom PLC, Airtel Money Kenya Limited to operate as Intermediary Service Platform Providers (ISPPs).

CMA also said they licensed Kenya Securities Limited to operate as a Dealing Online Foreign Exchange Broker.

“The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has approved Safaricom Plc and Airtel Money Kenya Limited to operate as Intermediary Service Platform Providers (ISPPs). CMA also licensed CC Kenya Securities Limited (trading as Capital.com) to operate as a Dealing Online Foreign Exchange Broker,” read part notice.

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Why CMA Approved Two Service Providers

According to CMA, the approval of Safaricom and Airtel is expected to enhance competition and strengthen the investor’s choice.

CMA also noted that this move will expand digital access to regulated capital market products.

“The licensing of both Safaricom Plc and Airtel Money Kenya Limited to operate as Intermediary Service Platform Providers is expected to enhance competition, expand investor choice and strengthen digital access to regulated capital markets products,” CMA clarified.

At the same time, the dealing broker was mandated to act as a principal and market maker in online foreign exchange trading, including opening client accounts, providing trading platforms, offering market information, monitoring positions, and issuing end-of-day reports in line with the Capital Markets (Online Foreign Exchange Trading) Regulations, 2017.

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How Many Firms Does CMA Have Approved

Additionally, the Authority has so far licensed 13 non-dealing online forex brokers, two dealing with online forex brokers and three money managers.

“CMA has so far licensed thirteen non-dealing online forex brokers, two dealing online forex brokers and three money managers. These approvals underscore the continued growth and institutional interest in Kenya’s regulated online forex trading ecosystem,” CMA clarified.

One of Safaricom’s Branches in Kenya. PHOTO/ Safaricom