Africa

As the Russia – Ukraine conflict intensifies, and Western countries increase sanctions against the aggressor a new challenge emerges for West African oilers. Russia needs to ensure a steady pipeline of cash to prop up their economy and so Russian oil is being supplied at less expensive levels for those nations willing to absorb the wrath of the west. Some of these nations also happen to be the best buyers of West African crude.

Moody’s Corporation (NYSE: MCO) announced today that it has agreed to acquire a majority (51%) stake in Global Credit Rating Company Limited (GCR). GCR is a leading credit rating agency in Africa with operations spanning the continent, including in South Africa, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and Mauritius.

Fitch Ratings says the sector outlook for African banks in 2022 is neutral, with uncertain business conditions and Covid-19 risk constraining recovery. We anticipate a slightly faster rise in lending with most economies growing at the trend rate and banks gradually loosening stricter/pandemic-era underwriting standards. Our base case also considers risks to global growth, relatively high commodity prices and still favourable external financing conditions.

Visible green shoots – rising commodity prices, The launch of AfCFTA, Shifting patterns and alternative financing, Global interest, Post-pandemic sector potential, Digitization, Mending chains, Competition law and enforcement, Environmental Social and Governance.