Chinese investors flock to Africa amid a fintech startup boom

Published

4 years ago

August 30, 2021

Chinese investors are flocking back to Africa amid a fintech startup boom

The Covid-19 pandemic has induced a financial slump in Africa. This has seen Chinese investors flock to the continent in hope of cashing in on the gains.

One of the biggest players on the market at the moment is OPay – a mobile payments platform that has raised US$400 million. This has pushed its valuation to 2 billion.

OPay’s CEO says the company “wants to be the power that helps emerging markets reach a faster economic development”

The Chinese tycoon is also the founder of online games firm “Beijing Kunlun Technology” and was the previous owner of gay dating app, Grindr.

This all follows Chinese venture capitalists pumping millions of dollars into start-ups on the African continent between 2018 and 2019.

Economic uncertainty throughout the pandemic led to investors pulling funding to reduce risk, but investors are seemingly back on the market for fintech startups.

US dollar strength hits NZ dollar amid FX market shifts

US dollar rises amid strong US growth; New Zealand faces pressure as traders navigate volatile FX and geopolitical impacts.

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2026

Harvey Vargas

US dollar rises amid strong US growth; New Zealand faces pressure as traders navigate volatile FX and geopolitical impacts.

The US dollar is surging as strong economic growth in the United States contrasts with softer conditions in New Zealand. Policy divergence and complex global FX factors are putting pressure on the New Zealand dollar, leaving traders navigating choppy waters.

Steve Gopalan from SkandaFX breaks down how US interest rates are influencing key currency pairs like USD/JPY, and explains why hedging flows are crucial in today’s volatile environment.

We also explore the ripple effects of geopolitical tensions on oil and broader markets, while examining the Australian labour market’s role in shaping the Reserve Bank of Australia’s monetary policy.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

Money

Oil hits seven-month high, and gold surpasses $5,000 amid US-Iran tensions

Oil prices hit seven-month high amid U.S.-Iran tensions; experts analyze impacts on global economy and energy markets.

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Oil prices hit seven-month high amid U.S.-Iran tensions; experts analyze impacts on global economy and energy markets.

Oil prices have surged to a seven-month high as escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran spark fears of global supply disruptions. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with analysts closely monitoring potential military actions that could further strain energy markets.

Investors are reacting to geopolitical uncertainty, with oil markets pricing in heightened risk.

Kyle Rodda from Capital.com joins us to discuss what is driving these record-breaking price movements and the potential implications for the global economy.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

Money

Australia jobs, market trends, and tariff ruling: What investors need to know

Australia’s jobs report shapes rate forecasts, with cyclical assets favored amid market volatility and upcoming Supreme Court rulings on tariffs.

Published

3 days ago

February 19, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australia’s jobs report shapes rate forecasts, with cyclical assets favored amid market volatility and upcoming Supreme Court rulings on tariffs.

Australia’s latest jobs report is shaping market expectations and interest rate forecasts. Strong employment growth could boost confidence in the economy, while weaker data might prompt a rethink of monetary policy.

Investors are favouring cyclical assets over growth stocks, targeting sectors like industrials, materials, and energy. David Scutt from StoneX notes this reflects both caution amid market volatility and a bet on areas tied to economic cycles.

Meanwhile, the upcoming Supreme Court ruling on Trump’s reciprocal tariffs could significantly impact markets, yet many are overlooking its potential effects on trade, commodity prices, and sector valuations. Investors should prepare for possible volatility and adjust strategies accordingly.

#AustraliaJobs #InterestRates #CyclicalAssets #GrowthStocks #MarketInsights #TrumpTariffs #InvestorTrends #TickerNews