NSE, Meristem pitch ETFs as a smart investing tool
The Nigerian Stock Exchange www.nse.com.ng partners Meristem Wealth Management limited on ‘Smart Investing Tools Workshop’ to pitch benefits of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) as an investing tools.
The meeting which hosted capital market stakeholders and members of the investing public was held at Exchange in Lagos at the weekend.
The workshop themed, “Using Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) as a Proxy for Investing in Nigerian Equities” had in attendance young, savvy members of the investing public and capital market stakeholders.
With the growing demand for cost-effective, low-risk, diversified and income-generating investment instruments, the Exchange has identified the ETFs segment as a viable investment option for investors, particularly younger players who are new to the capital market.
The workshop was held in line with the Exchange’s commitments to deepen capital market activity through innovative and value-driven products and services, as well as provide opportunities for in-depth investor education.
Speaking to the growth of the ETFs market segment, the Chief Executive Officer, NSE, Oscar Onyema said, “Today, the NSE is the second largest ETF market in Africa with a current market capitalization of N6.9 billion.
“From a single ETF tracking the price of Gold in 2011, the market has deepened with 10 ETFs currently offering exposure to equities, fixed income, commodities as well as thematic and smart investment solutions.
“The ETFs market segment is radically reshaping the asset-management industry; gradually eclipsing old-fashioned stock pickers given its ability to replicate passive investing styles.”
“With the market witnessing low yields, we have seen an increasing appetite for equities, and ETFs present investors with an alternative channel to maximize investment and minimize the risk that comes with investing in equities.
“Consequently, the Exchange is resolute in its goal to collaborate with market stakeholders to not only increase listed ETFs but also provide the necessary sensitization and capacity building that will boost activity in the market.”
In his presentation at the workshop, Head, Asset Management, Meristem Wealth Management, Taiwo Yusuf, noted that ETFs are inherently designed to give investors access to a wide range of viable assets.
He stated, “By investing in ETFs, investors are free from the rigors that come with trading in equities including stock valuation, screening, selection, and liquidity risk.
“This makes ETFs a more cost-effective investment solution. In addition, ETFs serve as a bespoke product for investors who want to add a tinge of innovation to their investment portfolios.”
NSE, Meristem pitch ETFs by Ogochi Ndubuisi
