Strategic investments, fiscal reforms to shape Africa’s economy

Strategic investments in global equities, gold, and high-yield bonds are expected to present key opportunities across markets in Africa in 2025.

Accordingly, investors are encouraged to adopt disciplined and diversified strategies to capitalize on market trends while safeguarding against potential risks, such as inflation surprises or shifts in monetary policy.

This was the outcome of the recent 2025 Global Market Outlook organised by Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited in Lagos.

According to the bank, Africa and by extension Nigeria is positioned for resilience and growth in 2025.

Despite a projected slowdown in global growth to 3.1 percent from 3.2 percent in 2024, Nigeria and Africa are expected to remain key drivers of resilience and innovation, supported by strategic investments, sectoral diversification, and proactive fiscal policies.

“As global economies evolve, so should your strategy. Stay ahead by tapping into the expertise of your wealth specialists, ensuring your financial goals align with emerging opportunities,” Ernest Adejumo, head, investment advisory and strategy at Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, said.

According to him, the bank remains optimistic about long-term economic potential, emphasising the importance of sustainable reforms, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation in driving growth in Nigeria and Africa.

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Speaking on the global outlook’s impact on Nigeria and investment opportunities for stakeholders, Adejumo said that by aligning global trends with regional strengths, the Bank is well-positioned to support clients and communities in achieving their goals in 2025 and beyond.

“At Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, you are never alone on your wealth journey – we are with you every step of the way,” he said.

According to the World Bank’s latest projections, Nigeria – Africa’s most populous country’s economy is expected to experience steady growth, with a 3.5 percent expansion predicted for 2025, followed by a slight increase to 3.7 percent in 2026, indicating a positive outlook for the country’s economic development.

The World Bank also noted that Nigeria’s projected growth for 2025 and 2026 would be supported by gradually declining inflation, following monetary tightening measures in 2024.

Nigeria is leveraging advancements in digital technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and e-commerce to enhance regional connectivity and trade.

Similarly, Africa’s growing economic significance remains on an upward trajectory, with several countries leading the way in 2025.

Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ethiopia are forecasted to achieve some of the continent’s strongest growth rates, driven by industrial expansion, infrastructure development, and hydrocarbon production.

Also, investment momentum across Africa continues to strengthen, with infrastructure projects and industrial initiatives attracting foreign, domestic, and public-private partnerships.

However, resilience in key sectors, such as Botswana’s diamond industry, Côte d’Ivoire’s hydrocarbons, and Mauritius’s tourism, highlights the continent’s ability to adapt and thrive in a complex global environment.