Nairobi Securities Exchange Takes Bold By Introducing Single-Unit Trading

The Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc (NSE) has announced that effective 8th August, 2025, shares will be traded in multiples of one unit. This significant change follows the approval of amendments to the NSE Equity Trading Rules, allowing the buying and selling of shares in single units.

The NSE said this is part of its broader initiative to improve access to investment opportunities at the NSE. By enabling single-unit trading, the NSE will provide greater flexibility for investors, reduce entry barriers, and encourage wider participation, particularly from retail investors who have previously found it difficult to invest due to high minimum trade sizes.

In view of the above, the Odd Lot Board  – previously used for trades below 100 shares – has been removed. All market orders will now be placed and executed on the Main Order Book.

Going forward, under Rule 7.6.6, the official daily closing price of a listed equity shall be determined only if the total cumulative traded volume in a session is at least 100 shares or units.

If the total cumulative traded volume is below 100, the closing price shall remain the previous average reported by the NSE.

“We are pleased to take this significant step towards enhancing retail investor participation in our market,” said Mr Frank Mwiti, Chief Executive Officer of the NSE. “This initiative is part of our broader strategic efforts to increase financial inclusion and market accessibility for all investors.”

Mr Mwiti said the moves aligns with NSE’s vision of increasing the number of active investors to 9 million by the year 2029.

“The NSE remains committed to fostering a more inclusive and investor-friendly market,” he said. “This development reinforces our efforts to deepen the market and support the growth of retail investor participation, while also aligning with global best practices in equity trading.”

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