United Capital CEO commends SEC’s capital market master plan

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has been making strides in the implementation of the Capital Market Master Plan, as emphasized by the CEO of United Capital during a recent interview on CNBC Africa. The Capital Market Committee (CMC) recently discussed various aspects of the plan, noting the progress in certain areas such as non-interest capital market products. For instance, the federal government has successfully launched non-interest programs like the SUCUC, with other state governments and nationals following suit to issue similar products. One key aspect highlighted by the United Capital CEO is the implementation of Financial and Interest Initiatives in the market. There is a strong commitment across the market towards this goal, with plans underway to introduce Capital Market Studies into school curriculums nationwide. This move aims to educate the younger population about capital markets and investment opportunities, fostering a culture of financial literacy from an early age. Additionally, there has been notable progress in mobilizing retail savings within the market. The introduction of initiatives like the Federal Government Savings Bond has allowed retail investors to participate in opportunities previously reserved for wholesale market players. This inclusivity in the market is crucial for broadening participation and democratizing access to investment instruments. During the recent Capital Market Committee meeting, a decision was made to establish a working group dedicated to consolidating existing initiatives related to electronic initial public offerings (IPOs). The group will be tasked with setting a clear timeline for the approval and launch of EIPOs, paving the way for more streamlined and efficient fundraising activities in the capital markets. Looking ahead, the market is set to focus on enhancing coordination and communication through initiatives like the One Voice Leader platform. In times of heightened market scrutiny and wavering confidence, having a unified voice from industry leaders is paramount to instilling trust and stability. The SEC leadership has called for unwavering support from the Capital Market and the Committee, a plea that has been met with unanimous agreement as stakeholders recognize the significance of presenting a united front. As the market moves forward, stakeholders can expect to witness increased collaboration and solidarity among industry players, signaling a positive trajectory for the Nigerian capital market. The continued implementation of the Capital Market Master Plan holds the potential to drive growth, innovation, and resilience in the financial sector, bolstering investor confidence and market stability.