(Ecofin Agency) - 21% of the WAEMU population is unaware of the existence of regional financial market players, according to a study by the AMF-UMOA. Through this event, the APSGI aims to boost its visibility and achieve 60% of stock market transactions from individual investors by 2030.

The Maison de l’entreprise in Abidjan-Plateau, Côte d’Ivoire, welcomed the second edition of the "APSGI Rendez-vous" on December 12-13, 2024. This event was organized by the Professional Association of Asset Management and Brokerage Companies of WAEMU (APSGI-WAEMU) in collaboration with the Central Depository/Settlement Bank (DC/BR).

The event was held under the theme "Invest Today with the Stock Market for a Better Tomorrow" and aimed to promote stock market culture while raising public awareness about the opportunities provided by the regional financial market. Participants included economic players, investors, institutional leaders, and individuals. Discussions focused on investment opportunities and the strategic advantages of WAEMU’s financial markets. The event also highlighted innovative initiatives such as the use of artificial intelligence to personalize financial advice and optimize investments.

Experts at the opening session noted that the regional financial market remains largely unknown. A study commissioned by the Financial Markets Authority of WAEMU (AMF-WAEMU) revealed that only 28% of the population is aware of the institution, while 21% have no knowledge of regional financial market actors. The APSGI reported that fewer than 200,000 active securities accounts exist for a population of over 145 million. Kadi Fadika-Coulibaly, vice-president of APSGI, stressed that "the stock market is not just a speculative platform but a tool to build wealth, fund life projects, and actively contribute to the development of our economies."

The event comes at a time when the WAEMU financial market shows positive prospects despite challenges. According to Ismaël Cissé, APSGI’s director-general, the region’s stock market capitalization could reach $100 billion by 2030, representing 59% of the regional GDP, which is estimated at $170 billion. The African Exchanges Linkage Project, which aims to connect African stock markets, is expected to increase interregional transactions by 35% and reduce transaction costs by 40%. By 2030, individual investors are projected to account for 60% of stock market transactions, with a 50% increase in average investment per person.

Efforts to raise $15 billion for green projects are also a key part of the agenda. These projects will focus on reducing carbon emissions and encouraging responsible investments.

The Regional Stock Exchange (BRVM), central to WAEMU’s financial market, has achieved significant growth. In 2024, the average dividend yield was 6.5%, and bond interest rates reached competitive levels of up to 8%, drawing both institutional and individual investors.

APSGI plans to expand initiatives across the WAEMU region to promote inclusive finance. Kadi Fadika-Coulibaly stated, "The future of our stock market depends on everyone’s active participation. Together, we can build an inclusive and prosperous financial future."

APSGI represents asset management and brokerage companies, with 37 members operating in seven WAEMU countries: Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Togo. The organization operates on the BRVM, Africa’s fifth-largest stock exchange, which achieved a market capitalization of CFA10,000 billion (about $16 billion) in 2024.