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Kenya Lifts Bank License Ban, Boosts Capital Requirements

9/8/2025

29 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Central Bank of Kenya ended a decade-long ban on new bank licenses and increased capital requirements.
By 2029, the core capital requirement will rise to 10 billion shillings (US$76 million).
These changes aim to strengthen banks, boost competition, and drive economic growth.
Currently, 39 licensed banks exist, with nine large banks earning 90% of profits.
Critics claim the previous moratorium limited competition and concentrated market power.

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Story summary

The Central Bank of Kenya ended a decade-long ban on new bank licenses and increased capital requirements.
By 2029, the core capital requirement will rise to 10 billion shillings (US$76 million).
These changes aim to strengthen banks, boost competition, and drive economic growth.
Currently, 39 licensed banks exist, with nine large banks earning 90% of profits.
Critics claim the previous moratorium limited competition and concentrated market power.