Clearstream Opens Domestic Market Link To Kenya

Clearstream, Deutsche Börse Group's post-trade business, is set to open a new domestic market link to Kenya on 29 June 2026, giving institutional investors direct access to Kenyan government bonds, infrastructure bonds and treasury bills through a single omnibus account structure.

Standard Chartered Kenya will act as Clearstream's cash correspondent bank for Kenyan Shilling transactions and as local custodian with the Central Bank of Kenya.

The link marks Clearstream's 60th domestic market connection and makes it the only international central securities depository (ICSD) to offer access to Kenya.

Through the connection, Clearstream's clients will be able to settle and safekeep Kenyan government debt securities, use Kenyan debt instruments in collateral management facilities, and conduct foreign exchange services for the Kenyan Shilling, without requiring local registration or account opening.

Kenya has been consolidating its position as a leading economic hub in East Africa, with the country's anticipated inclusion in global market indices drawing increased attention from international investors.

Jan Willems, Head of Global Markets, Clearstream

Jan Willems, Head of Global Markets, Clearstream said:

"The new link to Kenya is an important milestone as it follows Clearstream's strategic aim to facilitate global investment and provide further access for our clients to attractive and growing markets. We are delighted to partner with Standard Chartered and the Central Bank of Kenya to connect the Kenyan market to our global network."

David Luusa, Director Financial Markets, Central Bank of Kenya

David Luusa, Director Financial Markets, Central Bank of Kenya commented:

"The Central Bank of Kenya welcomes the establishment of the Clearstream-Kenya Link which is expected to provide efficient access by international investors to Kenyan Government securities, supported by the Dhow Central Securities Depository (DhowCSD). This is a significant milestone in developing Kenya's financial markets. The link is expected to deepen liquidity, broaden the investor base, and enhance resilience of the domestic debt market. This development underscores our commitment to strengthening and modernizing financial market infrastructure, fostering greater integration with the global financial system, and advancing Kenya's position as one of the leading financial centers in Africa."

Birju Sanghrajka, Chief Executive Officer & Head of Coverage, Corporate & Investment Banking, Standard Chartered Kenya said:

"Standard Chartered Kenya is pleased to collaborate with the Central Bank of Kenya and Clearstream to make Kenya, Clearstream's 60th domestic market link globally and second in Africa after South Africa. This marks an important milestone in the development of Kenya's financial markets. Increased foreign participation in local government securities is anticipated to bring capital into the economy, broaden the investor base, enhance market liquidity, and promote higher standards of transparency and efficiency."

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