Analysis

Can Foreign Banks Raise the Bar in Ethiopia's Digital Finance?

Foreign banks entering Ethiopia have the opportunity to leapfrog outdated metrics like branch counts or ATM networks and instead compete through superior digital financial services.

The Rise of Mobile Money in Ethiopia, Without the Agents

In 2024, the average number of transactions a mobile money agent made in the year was just 314, which equates to fewer than one transaction per day. Mobile money appears to have outpaced agent growth.

A Halal Path to Ethiopia's Financial Inclusion

Sharia-compliant digital financial services in Ethiopia are at a crossroads: growing demand, limited offerings. Devoid of regulatory support and innovation DFS inclusion for millions remains at risk.

The Dangers of Ethiopia’s P2P-Driven Digital Economy

Until business payments emerge from peer-to-peer obscurity, Ethiopia’s digital economy will continue to grow, albeit in the dark.

Why Understanding Digital Public Infrastructures Matters for Ethiopia’s DFS Evolution

Ethiopia’s digital future depends on building strong digital public infrastructures now.

Rethinking ‘Small’ to Onboard MSMEs into Ethiopia’s Digital Finance

Defining MSMEs has been nearly as challenging as supporting them ever since the acronym became popular in the 90s.

Regulation on Digital Lending Long overdue in Ethiopia

Educating the public about digital lending procedures and safe borrowing should not be the responsibility of loan defaulters.

Redesigning Payment Confirmation for Ethiopia's Unique Needs

The ease, convenience, and speed with which transactions are confirmed play a major role in driving the adoption of digital financial services in Ethiopia.