The second edition of the Teja Talks Speaker Series, a thought leadership platform hosted by Teja Spaces in partnership with Construkt Africa and Kenyan Wall Street, successfully brought together capital markets industry leaders, institutional investors, and policymakers to explore the growing prominence of alternative asset classes in regional and global investment portfolios.
Held at Teja Spaces’ premium workspace in Nairobi, the event featured an engaging one-hour fireside chat with Mr. Ngatia Kirungie, Founder & Managing Director of Spearhead Africa Asset Management and Head of Secretariat at The Kenya Pension Funds Investment Consortium (KEPFIC). He shared his expertise on the transformative potential of infrastructure, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), private equity, and private credit in expanding investment opportunities.
Speaking on the role of alternative asset classes, Ngatia Kirungie emphasised their increasing importance for institutional investors, particularly in volatile economic climates, in providing alternative, diversified, risk mitigating investment strategies.
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“Alternative investments offer pension funds and institutional investors a vital avenue to diversify their portfolios, hedge against inflation, and achieve long-term stability. Globally, we have seen a shift where infrastructure, REITs, and private credit are not just supplementary investments but integral components of robust portfolios. In Kenya, regulatory reforms and increased investor appetite create a more favourable environment for these assets, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.”
The discussion, moderated by Andrew Barden, CEO of Kenyan Wall Street and Co-Founder of Wall Street Africa Group, explored Kenya’s evolving regulatory framework, the potential for portfolio diversification beyond traditional equities and bonds, and the challenges investors face when navigating these emerging asset classes.
Supporting Kirungie’s insights, Andrew Barden underscored the urgency for investors to adapt to shifting market dynamics.
“The global investment landscape is rapidly evolving, and Kenya is no exception. Institutional investors must look beyond conventional asset classes to build resilience and unlock new growth avenues. Alternative investments present a compelling opportunity, not just as a means of diversification but as a driver of long-term value creation in an increasingly complex financial ecosystem.”
Paul Kavuma, CEO of Construkt Africa and Executive Director of Teja Spaces, reinforced the platform’s convening, thought leadership role in shaping critical industry dialogue.
“Teja Talks Speaker Series continues to be a space where innovation meets insight, addressing key trends that shape markets and drive economic progress. This edition highlighted the increasing significance of alternative asset classes in building resilient investment portfolios, and we are proud to facilitate these crucial discussions that influence capital markets in Africa and beyond.”
Paul further reflected on the event’s impact, stating:
“Construkt Africa’s collaboration with Teja Spaces and Kenyan Wall Street reflects our shared commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue in the business and investment community. This edition was a testament to the power of conversation in revealing capital markets opportunities in the emergence of innovative investment products.”
The evening concluded with an exclusive whisky-tasting masterclass and cocktail experience curated by The Macallan, offering guests a sophisticated networking experience.
The Macallan Brand Ambassador Sherlyne Muita noted:
“We are delighted to have been part of this exceptional event. The seamless blend of insightful discussions and our whisky-tasting experience created a unique atmosphere for learning and networking, aligning perfectly with The Macallan’s ethos of craftsmanship and sophistication.”
The Teja Talks Speaker Series has established itself as a premier thought leadership platform, reflecting the growing appetite for conversations that shape the future of finance and economic growth for both individuals and organisations. The inaugural edition, held in December 2024, focused on helping brands navigate and adapt to the ever-evolving digital landscape.
