CIC in Shocking Market Upset
Kenya’s investment landscape is developing rapidly and nowhere is this more obvious than in the booming unit trust market. With assets under management (AUM) now striking the milestone of KSh 500 billion the once stable order of fund managers has seen a seismic shift. Sanlam Investments East Africa has overtaken CIC Asset Management to become the new leader in Kenya’s collective investment schemes signaling exciting times for retail investors and the broader financial market.
What Are Unit Trusts and Why Are They So Popular in Kenya?
Unit trusts also known as collective investment schemes Kenya pool money from multiple investors to invest in differentiated groups of stocks bonds or money market instruments. They provide an available low risk entry into the financial markets making them especially attractive to retail investors in Kenya.
Kenya’s growing middle class rising financial literacy and fintech enabled ease of access (through apps like Ndovu, Chumz and Hisa) have all fueled an increase in demand for unit trusts. Investors seeking safe investment options in Kenya today find unit trusts to be a practical way to grow wealth without the complexities of managing individual stocks.
Also Read: Packers’ Final Push to Trade Jaire Alexander Ends in Release
Kenya Unit Trust Industry Surges to KSh 500 Billion AUM
According to the latest Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Kenya report 2025 total assets under organization in unit trusts have closely doubled over the past two years. The industry’s robust development highlights:
- Improved investor confidence in Kenyan mutual funds.
- Growing creation offerings with money market funds Kenya and fixed income funds Kenya.
- Greater distribution through digital platforms and partnerships by banks as NCBA Investment Bank.
This growth also reflects better yields and competitive returns compared to traditional savings accounts or fixed deposits.
Sanlam vs CIC: The New Leader in Kenya’s Unit Trust Market
Generally CIC Asset Management dominated Kenya’s unit trust scene. However recent data reveals a competitive shakeup:
- Sanlam Investments East Africa has surpassed CIC in AUM and market share.
- This shift stems from Sanlam’s aggressive marketing strategies, innovative fund products and improved customer engagement.
- Sanlam’s CEO, Patrick Tumbo attributes this success to data driven investment decisions and enhanced distribution networks across Nairobi and other counties.
Why Did Sanlam Overtake CIC?
- Higher Returns: Sanlam’s money market and income funds have delivered some of the best-acting unit trust funds in Kenya 2025.
- Digital Innovation: Integration with fintech platforms such as Hisa app unit trusts simplifies investing for younger demographics.
- Investor Trust: Strong compliance with CMA Kenya regulations and transparency boosts confidence.
What Does This Mean for Investors in Kenya?
The rise of Sanlam signals increased competition which profits you the investor through:
- More diversified and competitive fund options.
- Improved customer service and accessibility.
- Potential for better returns as fund managers innovate and optimize.
If you are exploring investment options in Kenya now is a great time to review your portfolio and consider top fund managers in Kenya, with Sanlam and CIC.
How to Invest in Unit Trusts in Kenya: A Quick Guide
- Choose a Reputable Fund Manager: Look for firms regulated by CMA Kenya through strong track records like Sanlam, CIC ,ICEA Lion Asset Management or Co-op Trust Investment Services.
- Pick Your Fund Type: Decide if you want money market funds, fixed income funds or balanced funds based on your risk tolerance.
- Open an Investment Account: Many banks and fintech apps (e.g., Ndovu, Chumz, Hisa) offer easy account setup and mobile investing.
- Start Small: Unit trusts allow you to invest through relatively low minimum amounts.
- Monitor Your Investment: Track performance regularly and stay updated with CMA Kenya unit belief performance reports.
FAQs: Kenya Unit Trust Industry Growth
Q: Why are unit trusts gaining traction between Kenyan retail investors?
A: They offer a safe affordable way to invest through professional management and liquidity.
Q: What makes Sanlam’s unit trust products stand out?
A: Strong returns innovative digital access and excellent customer support.
Q: Are unit trusts regulated in Kenya?
A: Yes, by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA Kenya) ensuring investor defense.