Absa Asset Management Limited (AAML), the investment management subsidiary of Absa Bank Kenya PLC, has received regulatory approval to introduce two new investment products under its Absa Unit Trust Scheme, marking a significant expansion of its portfolio of wealth management solutions.
The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has approved the registration of the Absa Global Multi-Asset Special Fund (USD) and the Absa Global Multi-Asset Special Fund (KES), paving the way for Kenyan investors to access professionally managed global investment opportunities aimed at enhancing portfolio diversification.
The regulator confirmed that AAML’s application complied with the provisions of the Capital Markets (Collective Investment Schemes) Regulations, 2023.
Following a review of the supporting documentation, the Authority approved the two funds as additional sub-funds under the existing Absa Unit Trust Scheme, subject to the firm’s continued adherence to applicable regulatory requirements.
The approval comes as AAML prepares to launch the two funds, further strengthening its investment offering, which currently includes the Absa Shilling Money Market Fund, Absa Dollar Money Market Fund, Absa Fixed Income Fund, Absa Balanced Fund and Absa Equity Fund.
The company is licensed by the CMA to operate as a fund manager for Collective Investment Schemes in Kenya.
AAML Head Elizabeth Irungu described the approval as a major milestone in the firm’s efforts to broaden investment opportunities available to Kenyan investors.
“This approval reinforces our commitment to designing investment solutions that address the evolving needs of our clients. As investors increasingly seek diversified opportunities to build and preserve wealth, these Global Multi-Asset Special Funds will provide access to professionally managed international investment strategies that support their long-term financial objectives,” she said.
Irungu noted that the new products reflect the firm’s ongoing focus on developing solutions tailored to different investor profiles and financial goals.
While the Special Funds will enable investors to tap into international markets, she said the domestic market continues to deliver strong returns.
She cited the performance of the Absa Equity Fund, which gained 15 per cent during the first half of 2026, adding that locally focused investment products remain attractive because of their accessible entry thresholds of KSh1,000 for shilling-denominated funds and USD100 for dollar-denominated products.
“We remain focused on understanding our clients’ aspirations and delivering investment products that align with their risk appetite and long-term financial plans. The approval of these funds strengthens the range of investment choices available while reaffirming our commitment to helping clients achieve their financial ambitions,” Irungu said.
The launch comes at a time when demand for specialised investment products continues to grow in Kenya.
According to the Capital Markets Authority, Special Funds accounted for a record 23.9 per cent share of the Collective Investment Schemes market, with assets under management reaching Sh203.5 billion as of March 2026.
AAML said its funds have recorded cumulative growth of 28 per cent since inception, highlighting rising investor confidence and growing demand for innovative investment solutions in Kenya’s evolving capital markets.
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