According to a recent study, thirty African companies announced an IPO this year, six more than last year. This is the largest number of IPOs by African groups since the 2008 crisis.
2015 promises to be fruitful for African financial centers. A study by the international business law firm Baker & McKenzie estimates that thirty initial public offerings (IPOs) of companies domiciled in Africa are planned for this year, six more than in 2014: this is the highest level reached since the 2008 financial crisis. These IPOs reach a total value of 2.063 billion dollars, or 3% more than last year and 336 million dollars more than all those recorded on the continent from 2011 to 2013.
Johannesburg in a position of strength
The three South African companies that have indicated their intention to go public this year represent 23% of the total value of these IPOs. It is interesting to note, however, that among them, only the investment company Ubuntu Botho Financial Services, owned by South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe, plans to join the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The South African energy producer Ssafen has chosen to list on the alternative market of the London Stock Exchange (London AIM), while its compatriot Steinhoff International, present in logistics, furniture (Conforama) and distribution, is preparing the listing of its European activities in Frankfurt.