Standard Chartered targets Africa’s rich in wealth creation

Standard Chartered has renewed its focus on supporting Africa’s wealthy to grow, preserve and pass on their fortunes as it positions itself as the financial partner of choice for the continent’s emerging affluent and legacy-minded investors.

The bank announced during the 2025 Nairobi Private Wealth Conference, where it outlined its sharpened strategy under the banner “Now’s Your Time for Wealth” — a global campaign rallying wealth creators to invest deliberately and build with purpose.

“Africa’s affluent clients are redefining what wealth means – shifting focus toward legacy, impact, and purpose,” said the Bank’s Managing Director and CEO for Kenya and Africa, Kariuki Ngari.

“At Standard Chartered, we are equipping them with the global perspective, expert guidance, and digital tools needed to shape the future with confidence.”

Ngari noted that Standard Chartered’s wealth strategy includes helping clients manage cross-border investments through a seamless international network, supported by advanced digital platforms and real-time insights.

The bank is especially keen on younger investors, who Ngari said are “leading a shift toward sustainable and purpose-driven wealth.”

“From investing in renewable energy and ethical supply chains to building inclusive infrastructure and establishing family foundations, Africa’s new wealth custodians are values-driven and globally minded – and they expect their financial partners to be the same,” he observed.

The campaign comes at a time when Africa’s middle class is expanding and access to international markets is improving. With more than 135,000 millionaires and USD 2.5 trillion in investable wealth, the bank sees a strategic opportunity to anchor itself in the long-term financial journeys of its clients.

The Nairobi Private Wealth Conference brought together top-tier investors, founders and business leaders to engage on key themes shaping the future of wealth in Africa.

Some of the major themes include family office structures, intergenerational wealth transfer, global diversification and impact investing.

Consequently, Ngari stressed that the bank’s approach is anchored in long-term advisory, tailored strategies and a commitment to helping African investors leave behind enduring legacies.