How to invest in government bonds in Kenya

ByElizabeth Atieno

Jun 12, 2023
How to invest in government bonds in Kenya

In this article you will learn how to invest in government bonds in Kenya. Investing in government bonds is a great way to grow your wealth while supporting your country’s economy. Fortunately, in Kenya, it’s easy to invest in government bonds. In this guide, we’ll show you how to invest in government bonds in Kenya and what you need to know to make the most of your investment.What are Government Bonds?

Government bonds are debt securities issued by governments to raise capital. When you buy a government bond, you’re essentially lending money to the government. In return, the government pays you interest on your investment, and when the bond matures, you receive your principal back.

Investing in government bonds is a safe and low-risk investment. Since the government is considered a stable borrower, the risk of default is low. Additionally, since government bonds are backed by the government’s ability to tax and print money, they are considered to be among the safest investments available.

How to Invest in Government Bonds in Kenya

Step 1: Open a CDS Account

To invest in government bonds in Kenya, you need to open a Central Depository System (CDS) account. A CDS account is a securities account that is used to hold and transfer securities such as bonds, stocks, and mutual funds. You can open a CDS account with your bank or a stockbroker.

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Step 2: Determine your Investment Goals

Before you invest in government bonds in Kenya, it’s essential to determine your investment goals. Are you investing for short-term gains or long-term growth? Are you looking for a safe and low-risk investment, or are you willing to take some risks for higher returns? Understanding your investment goals will help you choose the right government bonds for your portfolio.

Step 3: Choose your Bonds

Kenya issues several types of government bonds, including Treasury bills, Treasury bonds, and Infrastructure bonds. Treasury bills are short-term bonds that mature in less than a year, while Treasury bonds and Infrastructure bonds are long-term bonds that mature in 1-30 years.

When choosing your bonds, consider the bond’s maturity date, interest rate, and yield. The interest rate is the rate at which the government pays you interest on your investment, while the yield is the total return on your investment, including both the interest rate and any capital gains.

Step 4: Place your Order

Once you’ve chosen your bonds, you can place your order through your bank or stockbroker. You can either buy the bonds at their face value or at a discount, depending on the prevailing market conditions.

Step 5: Monitor your Investment

After you’ve invested in government bonds in Kenya, it’s essential to monitor your investment regularly. Keep an eye on the bond’s interest rate, yield, and maturity date. If you need to sell your bonds before they mature, you can do so through your bank or stockbroker.

Conclusion

Investing in government bonds in Kenya is a safe and low-risk investment that can help you grow your wealth while supporting your country’s economy. By following these steps, you can invest in government bonds in Kenya and make the most of your investment. Remember always to do your research and choose the right bonds for your investment goals.