Social, political, and economic factors over the last few years have led to a significant shift in expectations from employees. For example, the global pandemic paved the way for a healthy work-life balance, which is why remote work is one of the most sought-after job perks. Throughout this article, we’ll take a look at employee business trends that every business needs to follow.

Higher Onboarding Investments
The employee experience starts with an effective job ad and everything in between from hitting apply and day one, which is why attention needs to be given to a properly executed onboarding process. The reason for this is pretty simplistic – employees want to feel as though they belong.

Successfully onboarding and retaining talent involves more than formal paperwork filing. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the ordinary by welcoming employees into your business with a dash of fun, including icebreakers, office outings, and flexible start times during week one.

A Focus on Employee Engagement
The essence of employee engagement is the communication between management and regular employees, which can be facilitated by technology. For example, thanks to tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom, business leaders can easily communicate directly with employees. Additionally, they allow company-wide surveys to be released, which can provide useful insights to inform positive change.

The Rise of Hybrid Workplaces
Once the global pandemic ended and businesses were able to operate in the real world, an obvious divide emerged between those that benefit from physical interaction and those that thrive in remote settings. Therefore, to cater to both types of employees, more businesses are taking offering flexibility through the hybrid approach.

To facilitate this high-in-demand job perk, business leaders are using tech tools, like employee time tracking with Shiftbase. Using tools like this allows remote workers to just get on with their work without interruption, as their team leaders don’t feel the need to constantly check on them.

Artificial Intelligence and HR
The rise of AI has finally come to a head, and it’s already having an impact on other trends. It is revolutionizing the way companies operate their HR operations including onboarding, employee engagement, staff training, and much more. For example, employee scheduling tools can be integrated with powerful AI systems that allow everyone to be more productive.

More Attention on Employee Wellbeing
Events of the past few years have promoted professionals to take stock of their mental health. Eventually, this led to the Great Resignation, which is an ongoing trend of people leaving jobs in search of roles that pay close attention to employee wellbeing. Businesses are using several tactics to fulfill this indeed, including:

Zero work on weekends.
No work-based communication after 6 pm.
Paid paternity leave to mimic maternity leave.
Mental health break days.
Free therapy to reduce burnout.
To make it through 2023 and beyond, businesses need to improve their employee experience on every single level, which means having flexibility and putting their needs first. Instead of offering monetary compensation, take steps to include several well-being perks.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/23/5-employee-experience-trends-every-business-should-follow-in-2023/

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) is set to hold its maiden edition of the annual Advertising Industry Colloquium with a focus on relevant areas of marketing communication.

BrandSpur Nigeria reports that the Advertising Industry Colloquium is scheduled to be held on 30th March 2023 at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.

Speaking at media briefing held on Wednesday, 22nd March, 2023, Professor Rotimi Olatunji, Chairman of the Planning Committee of the colloquium while elaborating on the event, mentioned that the schools were selected from ARCON’s database of accredited schools from each geo-political zone with mails sent to them, requesting if they were interested and only those who responded were selected.

The following universities made the list of academic institutions that were invited as participants: Adeleke University, Ede; Fountain University, Osogbo; Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos; Caleb University, Imota; Covenant University, Ota; Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo; Elizade University, Ilara Mokin, Fed Polytechnic, Nekede; University of Ibadan and Al-Hikman University, Ilorin.

He explained that in addition to the participating universities, the following universities have also been selected for the Creative Pitch Competition. These are: Rivers State University, Port Harcourt; Ebonyi State University; Babcock University, Ilisan’ Bingham University, Abuja; University of Ilorin and Lagos State University.

“This Colloquium is a one-day event organised by the marketing communication industry sectoral groups and powered by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). The primary objective is to provide the forum for academics and students of Mass Communication, Advertising and other components of the integrated marketing communication (IMC) to interact with professionals in Advertising/other components of the IMC, media practitioners, policymakers and regulatory agencies. The theme of the Colloquium is “Changing Trends in Advertising Education and Practice in the Era of Globalisation: The Nigerian Perspective,” he explained.

The Chairman also noted that the Panel of Judges were drawn from advertising sectoral groups and would be unveiled during the competition while revealing that prizes will be awarded to institutions with the most creative pitches.

According to Prof. Olatunji, the colloquium is the brainchild of the able Director-General of ARCON, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo who, on assumption of office, constituted the Advertising Industry Colloquium and Journal Committee. This, he stated, includes to plan, organize and implement the first Annual Advertising Colloquium for academics and professionals in the marketing communications industry as well as to plan, edit and publish an annual academic journal for the advertising profession in Nigeria.

The distinguished academic elaborated some of the objectives of the Colloquium thus: “The main objective of the colloquium is to deepen knowledge and provide insights into required skill for success in advertising education and practice in the contemporary era of globalisation.

“The specific objectives are: to provide a platform for interaction between Town and Gown for the examination of current and topical issues in Marketing Communications in Nigeria.

“Sensitize academics and students of Communication and Media studies to key requirements for career success in different areas of marketing communication in the era of digitalization.

“Discuss contemporary trends in creative advertising planning and execution; media campaigns and execution; digital marketing processes; and advertising regulation.

“Provide opportunities for students in the field of Communication and media to showcase their creative knowledge and skills in advertising campaign planning.”

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/23/arcon-set-to-hold-maiden-advertising-industry-colloquium-in-lagos/

Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company, has today announced that it has received its Electronic Money Issuer and Remittance Licenses from the National Bank of Rwanda. This will help the company expand its operations in East Africa.

With these new licenses, in addition to being a Payment Service Provider, Flutterwave can offer money deposit and withdrawal, electronic funds transfer, as well as inbound and outbound remittance services to the 13.46 million people living and working in Rwanda.

According to Rwanda’s National Institute of Statistics, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Rwanda account for about 97% of businesses and contribute almost 55% to the total GDP. That makes MSMEs critical to job creation and the economic growth of the country.

Flutterwave will be deploying a range of products in Rwanda, including Send by Flutterwave, its cross-border money transfer solution. Also available will be Flutterwave for Business and its suite of products, including Store, payment links, invoices and checkout to help individuals and businesses in Rwanda make the most of the booming eCommerce market.



Olugbenga “GB’ Agboola, Founder and CEO of Flutterwave, commented on the news, “From our first transaction to over 400 million now, we’ve remained committed to our vision of connecting all parts of Africa through payments and connecting Africa to the world. As a country well known for fostering innovation and promoting the use of digital technology, Rwanda has always been important to our expansion plans in East Africa. We are delighted for the vote of confidence in being granted these licenses. With them, we will leverage our extensive global reach and continuous growth in emerging markets to provide MSMEs in Rwanda with the tools they need to stimulate the economy, facilitate seamless cross-border transactions for Rwandans and support the expansion drive of global and Rwandan businesses.”

Commenting on the news, Leah Uwiroheye, Flutterwave’s East Africa Regional Lead, Regulatory and Government Affairs, said, “This is a great achievement for the company. As Rwanda continues executing important reforms to enhance the ease of doing business and implementing its Fintech Strategy 2022-2027, Flutterwave keeps contributing towards achieving a cashless economy by innovating and employing digital technology to support businesses and stimulate the economic growth of countries where we operate. The licenses will enable us to provide safe, secure and seamless payment services for individuals and businesses in Rwanda. This is definitely a starting point for Flutterwave as we continue to expand across East Africa.”

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/17/flutterwave-secures-two-additional-licenses-in-rwanda/

MTN Nigeria has disclosed its plans for a merger with two financial institutions Momo Payment Service Bank Limited and Yello Digital Financial Services Limited.

The telecommunication giant revealed its plans at the 2023 Annual General Meeting scheduled to be held in April.
The company revealed that the proposed merger will “hold the Payment Service Bank license granted by the Central Bank of Nigeria and will also be capable of performing super-agent services and other permissible activities”.

Momo PSB is the payments unit of MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, and it began its operations in 2022 on the same day as Airtel Africa launched a similar fintech solution.

Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria who spoke about MOMO, disclosed that it was aimed at supporting the Federal Government’s plan for financial inclusion in Nigeria.

He said, “Not just for those in urban centers and markets, but also people in rural and remote areas of the country who remain excluded from the financial system,”.

While CBN granted MTN’s Yello Digital Financial Services Limited a full Super Agent License in 2019.

Super agents are businesses licensed license by CBN to recruit agents and provide financial services to communities on behalf of banks to increase financial inclusion.

MTN Nigeria also added that the proposed merger will add enhanced value for the company as well as its shareholders.

However, MTN directors have proposed a scrip dividend plan that would give interested shareholders the option to elect and receive new ordinary shares in the company instead of receiving their dividends in cash.

When passed at the MTN’s Annual General Meeting, the scrip dividend proposal will affect the dividend declared at the end of the financial year ending on December 31, 2022, and future dividends announced by the company commencing from the 2023 financial year.

The company also shared the scrip plan would give benefits in cash but would be paid as dividends, which will be retained as working capital and other general corporate purposes.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/20/mtn-to-merge-with-finance-subsidiaries/

Nigerian tech space has come under pressure as the news of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank in the United State hits the air and even more as the United States Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen disclosed that the United State Government would not bail out the bank.

Although HSBC, a US financial behemoth, has acquired SVB UK, tech firms in Nigeria, which are some of the biggest players in the African tech ecosystem, will be troubled by the news.Experts are saying the impact this will have on African nations’ project initiatives will not be significant, however, the closure of the SVB will affect the booming local startup sector.

Nigerian startups which have raised a total funding valued at $507 million from January to August 2022, with over 140 fintech startups in the country as of 2021, might not have so much to worry about.

Adedeji Olowe, founder, and CEO of Lendsqr, a fintech company were quoted earlier saying most startups may have funds trapped in the bank, but the funds have not disappeared.

Also, the co-founder of Carbon, a digital bank, Ngozi Dozie, commented, “VCs make investments and call capital from investors – this money is used to repay SVB loans. So, funds for investment are not in SVB. But funds for VCs to operate, pay salaries and management fees will be in SVB.”

Janet Yellen in an interview with CBs ” Face the Nation” has provided insight into what the government’s next move will be but she noted that this situation with SVB was different from the financial crisis which happened 15 years ago and had banks give out bailouts to protect the industry.

She said, “We’re not going to do that again, but we are concerned about depositors, and we’re focused on trying to meet their needs.”

She also assured that this would have no domino effect on American investors on Wall Street. She said “The American banking system is safe and well-capitalized well-capitalized”

She added that “It’s resilient.” Silicon Valley Bank, based in Santa Clara, California, is the nation’s 16th-largest bank. “It was the second biggest bank failure in US history after the collapse of Washington Mutual in 2008. The bank served mostly technology workers and venture capital-backed companies, including some of the industry’s best-known brands.”

Silicon Valley Bank began declining when its clients, which consisted of tech companies, could not get the cash they needed for financing and started withdrawing their deposits. This made the banks sell bonds at loss to cover the withdrawals, thereby causing the largest failure of one of the US oldest financial institutions.

Janet Yellen also disclosed other factors that led to SVb collapse, she said that rising interest rates which have been improved by the Federal Reserve to handle inflation were the major problem for SVB. The bank’s assets, such as bonds or mortgage-backed securities, lost market value as rates kept climbing.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/14/nigerian-startups-in-panic-as-silicon-valley-banks-collapse/

Men’s and Women’s International Match Calendar (IMCs) approved; FIFA World Cup 2026™ (https://www.FIFA.com) to feature competition format of 12 groups of four; FIFA World Cup 2026™ final to take place on Sunday, 19 July 2026; dedicated task force on player welfare established; additional transfer reforms unanimously approved.

The FIFA Council met in advance of the 73rd FIFA Congress in Kigali, Rwanda, and adopted several key decisions, particularly in relation to the future of men’s and women’s competitions, for which the respective international match calendars were unanimously approved following a detailed consultation process.

Men’s International Match Calendar 2025-2030


The Men’s International Match Calendar 2025-2030 will be structured as follows:


March: a nine-day, two-match window
June: a nine-day, two-match window (including friendlies in preparation of final tournaments where appropriate)
Late September/early October: a 16-day, four-match window (to be introduced as of 2026, with two nine-day, two-match windows to be retained in September and October 2025)
November: a nine-day, two-match window
Based on the new calendar, the FIFA World Cup 2026 final will be played on Sunday, 19 July 2026, with the mandatory release period starting on 25 May 2026, following the last official club match on 24 May 2026 (exemptions may apply to the final matches of confederation club competitions until 30 May 2026 subject to FIFA’s approval).

With 56 days, the total combined number of rest, release and tournament days remain identical to the 2010, 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cup™ editions. The detailed Men’s International Match Calendar 2025-2030 will be published in the coming days.

Women’s International Match Calendar 2024-2025

As per the current calendar, the Women’s International Match Calendar 2024-2025 will contain six international windows per year. Some of these windows will include a variety of window types to enable the confederations to deliver their specific competition qualification pathways and to enable the member associations to play friendly matches.

The Women’s Olympic Football Tournament dates (25 July-10 August 2024) have been added to the calendar, as well as the Concacaf W Gold Cup that will be played for the first time from 20 February to 10 March 2024.

The FIFA Council also unanimously approved the establishment of a dedicated task force on player welfare to ensure the smooth implementation of player welfare principles such as mandatory rest periods.

“FIFA promoted a truly global approach to the discussions on the International Match Calendar, which considered the perspectives of all key stakeholders,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“Our fundamental objective is to have clarity on this topic, and to have meaningful football matches while protecting the well-being of the players and recognising that many regions need more competitive football.”

FIFA World Cup 2026 competition format

Based on a thorough review that considered sporting integrity, player welfare, team travel, commercial and sporting attractiveness, as well as team and fan experience, the FIFA Council unanimously approved the proposed amendment to the FIFA World Cup 2026 competition format from 16 groups of three to 12 groups of four with the top two and eight best third-placed teams progressing to a round of 32. The revised format mitigates the risk of collusion and ensures that all the teams play a minimum of three matches, while providing balanced rest time between competing teams.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ – key principles of access list

Following on from the approval of the slot allocation for the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup™ that will be played every four years as of June 2025, the FIFA Council unanimously approved the key principles of access with the aim of ensuring the highest quality possible based on sporting criteria.

With a period of consideration being the four-year period of the seasons ending in 2021 and 2024, the key principles of access are as follows:

For confederations with more than four slots: access for the champions of the previous four editions of the confederation’s premier club competition, and additional teams to be determined by a club ranking based on the same four-year period
For confederations with four slots: access for the champions of the previous four editions of the confederation’s premier club competition
For confederations with one slot: access for the highest ranked club between the champions of the confederation’s premier club competition in the four-year period
For the host country: access for the club occupying this slot will be determined at a later stage

Other criteria also apply:

In the event of a club winning two or more editions of the confederation’s premier club competition during the 2021-2024 period, a club ranking calculated based on sporting criteria will be used to grant access
A cap of two clubs per country will be applied to the access list with an exception in case more than two clubs from the same country win the confederation’s premier club competition over the four-year period
Further consultation will follow with confederations and stakeholders to define the calculation mechanisms of the club ranking, which will be based on sporting criteria
Yearly FIFA club competition

Since the current version of the FIFA Club World Cup™ will be discontinued after the 2023 edition and, given the need expressed by the confederations for the champions of their premier club competitions to play each other annually to stimulate competitiveness, the FIFA Council unanimously approved the strategic concept of a yearly FIFA club competition as of 2024. This competition will feature the champions of the premier club competitions of all confederations and conclude with a final to be played at a neutral venue, between the winner of the UEFA Champions League and the winner of intercontinental play-offs between the other confederations. Details on timing and format will follow in due course.

FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Bidding Regulations approved

In line with the decision taken at its meeting on 14 February 2023, the FIFA Council unanimously approved the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Bidding Regulations, which will see the most comprehensive bidding process in the history of the competition before the host(s) are due to be appointed by the FIFA Congress next year.

FIFA Statutes

The FIFA Council also decided to set up a working group across all confederations to conduct a comprehensive review of the FIFA Statutes in order to present proposals to next year’s FIFA Congress. This review shall consider the possibility to extend FIFA’s mandate to include the eFootball category as part of FIFA’s overall objectives.

Transfer reform

The FIFA Council unanimously approved amendments to the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) related to registration periods and the need to ensure increased protection for unemployed football players, as part of the third package of the transfer reform process. In addition, the FIFA Council also agreed to mandate the FIFA administration to explore possible further regulatory steps to protect the well-being of female players in line with the RSTP, particularly in the following areas: adoption, abortion, menstrual health, multiple births, breastfeeding, and childcare.

Other decisions

The regulations in relation to the operations of the FIFA Talent Development Scheme in which FIFA will invest USD 200 million from 2023 to 2026 were unanimously approved. An update on the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™ was provided, and the FIFA Council approved the publication of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ debrief report. The FIFA Council confirmed that the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup UAE 2023™ will take place from 16 to 26 November 2023, and the slot allocation for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025™ was also approved (AFC: 3; CAF: 2; Concacaf: 2; CONMEBOL: 3; OFC: 1; UEFA: 4; host country: 1.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/14/fifa-council-approves-international-match-calendars/

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones introduced its Nokia C-Series which combines the durability and long-lasting battery life qualities Nokia phones became famous for with the best of Android™ software, and security.



The C-Series has the Nokia C12 and Nokia C31 which both provide a more efficient smartphone experience, making the promises of durability and security more accessible than ever.

The Nokia C12 is available in Dark Cyan, Charcoal, and Light Mint colorways and comes in 2/64 GB memory and storage configuration, while the Nokia C31 is available in charcoal, Mint, or Cyan and comes in 3/32GB memory and storage configurations.



Both devices bring better imaging at the entry-level price point, the most recent battery smarts for longer battery life, and the latest security and privacy features but the Nokia C12 has a better performance with memory extension.

On the Nokia C12, you can enjoy a 30% fasteri app opening time courtesy of Android 12 (Go edition). With memory extensionii giving you 2GB of additional virtual RAM, you can navigate between your favorite apps even faster, whilst ensuring others don’t slow you down. The device combines this with more advancediii octa-core processing giving an enhanced performance that can keep up with the busiest of lifestyles, while the performance optimizer carries out a regular “Spring clean” for a fluid everyday experience.



The Nokia C31 lets users enjoy the newest innovations from Google. Its dynamic color personalizes the look and feel of your phone based on your wallpaper, and conversation widgets put the people you care about front and center on your home screen. This form of software with fewer preloads means you can maximize your data plan and storage. With triple rear and selfie cameras powered by Camera by Google, and protection with dust and moisture resistance. It offers the best of the C-series at an ultra-affordable price point.

With these devices, HMD Global reiterates its commitment to producing durable, affordable, and efficient devices while setting the pace in the global smartphone industry. The tech leader also has plans to unveil more technologically advanced gadgets that align with the present consumer smartphone needs.



Features of Nokia C12



Enhanced imaging experience with Night and Portrait modes on a stunning 6.3” HD+ display.
Better durability against accidental drops and the latest battery smarts means you can keep your phone for longer.
Elevated performance smarts plus streamlined OS that saves you data and storage

Features of Nokia C31

HMD Global’s Introduces Nokia C12, Nokia C31 - Brand Spur

Android 12, improved 6.7” HD display and triple rear and selfie cameras powered by Camera by Google
AI-powered three-day battery lifeiv and two years of quarterly security updatesv for maximum security
Superior durability with IP52 protection from the elements from one of the toughest manufacturing standards in the world.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/11/hmd-globals-introduces-nokia-c12-nokia-c31/

The African Development Bank (AfBD), rated has launched and priced a USD 2 billion 5-year Global Benchmark bond due March 14, 2028, its first of the year. The bond was issued on 7 March.

With this issue, the African Development Bank continues to carry out its funding strategy of issuing large liquid benchmark transactions and adds another on-the-run reference in the 5-year maturity while extending its outstanding USD curve. With the final orderbook closing in excess of USD 3.5 billion and 95 investors participating, the African Development Bank set the size of the transaction at USD 2 billion. The issue garnered interest from top quality investors with particularly good demand from Central Banks / Official Institutions.

The Bank’s mandate for a 5-year USD Global Benchmark was announced on Monday 6, March at 09:07 London time with Initial Pricing Thoughts (IPTs) released at mid-swaps plus 35bp (basis points) area at 12.34 London time.

The deal enjoyed good investor demand during the first afternoon and overnight with Indications of Interest (IoI) reaching USD 2.1 billion by the time books officially opened on Tuesday 7, March 2023 at 07:57 London time. The orderbook continued to grow throughout the European morning, with investor demand equaling USD 3.5 billion by 10:28 London time, which allowed the spread to be tightened by 2bps and set at SOFR mid-swaps + 33bps. Shortly thereafter, at 12:54 London time, the high quality orderbook allowed the transaction to be launched with a size of USD 2 billion, with Americas books set to go subject at 13:30 London time. The trade officially priced at 5.58 pm London time at SOFR mid-swaps plus 33bps, equivalent to a reoffer yield of 4.435% and a spread of 14.3bp vs the on-the-run 5-year US Treasury.

With the final orderbook closing in excess of USD 3.5 billion with more than 90 orders, the success of this 5-year transaction is a clear vote of confidence from investors in the Bank’s AAA credit.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/12/afdb-launches-usd-2-billion-4-375-global-benchmark/

A call has gone to organizations operating across all sectors in the country to create opportunities that empower women to fulfill their full potential for the good of society.

The call was made by CEO of Digital Jewels, Adedoyin Odunfa while speaking as a Guest Speaker at the Webinar organized by Polaris Bank Limited themed: Advancing Women Empowerment through the Adoption of Technological Innovation and Digital Education to mark the 2023 International Women’s Day which held in Lagos last week.

Focusing on the IWD 2023 theme: #EmbraceEquity, Odunfa while addressing gender imbalance in the workplace, cited statistics that show that women make up only 46 percent of the workplace and less than 25 percent of them end up in leadership positions.

She pointed out the need to address gender imbalance and prevailing conscious and unconscious biases against women. She also emphasized the need to intentionally empower women with technological innovation rather than just pay lip service to it.

According to Odunfa, one of the ways to create these opportunities is to have more women in the workplace to develop products and services that empower women. She also highlighted the need to intentionally target women for instance, in the design of financial services and products to make them more accessible, affordable, and relevant.

To achieve this, Odunfa called for improved financial literacy and investment in education, as well as training for gender parity in the workplace and marketplace. This sentiment was echoed by two other Panelists at the webinar: Chinyelu Chikwendu, a Director with Vatebra TechHub and Ededayo Durosinmi-Etti, CEO of Herconomy.

Also contributing at the session as a Panelist, Dr. (Mrs.) Amina Sambo-Magaji, an AI specialist, Researcher and Tech policy maker, emphasized the need for collaboration and a system approach to promote gender equality in the digital space.

Dr. Sambo-Magaji, a distinguished Humphrey Fellow, who doubles as a Director at National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) also called for measures to promote women’s participation in all aspects of digital, including technological innovation, and digital governance. She emphasized the need for policies that actively promote gender equality and empower women to be partners, consumers, and creators of technology and innovation.

Earlier, Polaris Bank’s Group Head, Customer Experience Management & Sustainability, Bukola Oluyadi spoke on why the Bank organised the Webinar. “The goal of this event is to address the various challenges faced by Women in diverse professions, identify skill gaps needed to be addressed, and how technology, innovation, and digital education can be leveraged to empower the woman so that Gender equity can be felt more in our economy.”

According to Oluyadi, “Polaris Bank is committed to Women Empowerment, and consciously raising awareness on gender equity and ensure that no woman is financially excluded, or is disadvantaged in any way. In her words: “Only 30 percent of commercial banks in Nigeria have over 30 percent female representation on their board and Polaris Bank is one of such banks. The Bank is also supporting women-led businesses with single-digit interest loans in celebrating IWD 2023 and women’s month. The Bank is also driving women empowerment internally by inaugurating its Women’s Network this month”, she disclosed.



Polaris Bank is a future-determining Bank redefining banking products and services that meet the needs of individuals and businesses. The Bank was adjudged Digital Bank of the Year in 2021 and 2022.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/13/iwd-speakers-advocate-for-women-empowerment-in-workplace-society/

MTN Nigeria, has announced that it has distributed allotment of over 3.9 million incentive shares to 120, 359 qualified shareholders.
Telecommunication company, MTN disclosed this in a notice which was signed by the company secretary, Ufo Ukpanat, on Wednesday, that the incentive offer became effective on January 31, 2023. The notice also revealed that the offer was earlier made in December 2021 but was completed in January 2023, which is the date which the Securities & Exchange Commission cleared the offer allotment.

This offer also includes an incentive of one ordinary share for every 20 ordinary shares purchased. While shareholders who are qualified for this incentive shares are those who purchased and were allotted at least 20 ordinary shares in the offer and have held some or all the shares allotted at the offer as of the qualification date, which is 31 January 2023. This offer is, however, subject to those who held at least 20 ordinary shares; and those whose names were on the register of members at the date of qualification.

This implies that 120,359 investors, which represents 94.77% of those who participated in the offer, are qualified to receive the incentive shares which totaled 3,977,418 MTN ordinary shares.


SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/09/mtn-distributes-3-9m-incentive-shares-to-120359-investors/

Moniepoint Inc formerly TeamApt has announced the launch of the 3rd year of its Women-In-Tech Internship.

The 6-month long internship is aimed at ensuring that young African women have access to build a career in technology.

Five women will be accepted via the internship to join Moniepoint in 4 roles; System Administration, Quality Assurance, Frontend engineering and Product management.

The internship, currently in its third year, has seen women join the company in full-time roles after the mentorship period.

Each woman will receive direct mentorship during the internship. Other perks include; a salary, work tools, merch, the opportunity to work on live projects during the course of the internship, and an offer of full-time employment depending on assessment after the internship.

The internship is open to women across Africa who are interested in starting a career in technology. Applications for the internship open up on International Women’s day, March 8th, and will remain open for a week. Applicants will be contacted after an initial review for a virtual recruitment process.

Women are encouraged to visit the TeamApt career page to apply from today till Tuesday, March 22, 2021.


SOURCE;https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/09/moniepoint-announces-women-in-tec

The Apex bank of Nigeria, CBN has issued new guidelines, which were released in a circular which was referenced; PSM/DIR/PUB/CIR/001/43 and titled “Issuance of Operational Guidelines for Open Banking in Nigeria, and was dated March 7, 2023.

CBN disclosed that the guidelines would create greater access to customer-focused data sharing between banks and third-party firms.

The document which was signed by the Director of the Payment Services Management Department, Mr. Musa Jimoh, included the guidelines which would further the CBN’s mandate which would ensure stability in the nation’s financial system.

The circular reads like this “The Central bank of Nigeria (CBN) in furtherance of its mandate for the stability of the financial system and pursuant to its role in deepening the financial system hereby issue the Operational Guidelines for Open Banking in Nigeria.

“The adoption of Open Banking in Nigeria will foster customer permission data between banks and third-party firms to enable the building of customer-focused products and services.

“It is also aimed at enhancing efficiency, competition, and access to financial services in Nigeria.

“All stakeholders are required to ensure strict compliance with the guidelines and all other regulations, as the CBN continues to monitor developments and issue guidance as may be appropriate.”.

Open Banking is a practice that enables secured interoperability in the banking system, allowing third-party payment services and other financial service providers to access banking transactions and other data from financial institutions.



SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/09/cbn-issues-new-guidelines-on-open-banking/

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones slashed the price of its premium and ultra-affordable Nokia C21 Plus from N82,000 to N69,900.

Now smartphone lovers can get the durable device for over N10,000 cheaper while still getting the robust build quality and long-lasting battery capabilities that Nokia phones are famous for.

The Nokia C21 Plus comes with a wide set of specifications for its users to enjoy. The device is available in Dark Cyan and Warm Grey colors and comes in 2/64 GB variant. It comes with a 5050 mAh battery capacity, which delivers a three-day battery life depending on a single charge – allowing you to stay connected for longer.

As a member of the C-series which introduces consumers to quality smartphones, the Nokia C21 Plus has been designed to address consumers’ top pain points in the affordable price tier, battery life, the storage capacity of the phone and camera quality. The smartphone has not only been designed with style and durability in mind but has been built to last and tailored to customers’ needs.

Following a rigorous manufacturing standard that is known as one of the toughest in the world, the device’s build quality will stand the test of time. The body is supported by an inner metal chassis and toughened cover glass – IP52-rated for extra protection from dirt, dust, and water droplets. Nokia C21 Plus comes with two years of quarterly ​security ​​​​​updates as standard to keep everything safe with fingerprint and AI face unlock technology for added privacy and convenience.

The 13MP dual camera with HDR technology captures memorable moments in stunning detail, whilst different modes like portrait, panorama, and beautification assist in creating professional-looking photos that can keep forever. A stunning 6.5” HD+ display ensures that videos and photos can be viewed in all their glory, thanks to the incredible definition and clarity the screen has to offer.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/07/nokia-begins-special-sale-on-c21-plus/

Africa’s largest payment gateway, MFS Africa, has partnered with Western Union to enable individuals and businesses across the continent to receive money from over 200 countries and territories.



The partnership will enable funds to be sent from countries around the world to mobile wallets across Africa through the organization’s licensed payment rails. The service will first launch in Madagascar, and eventually to other countries across the continent.

Kumar Shourav, Managing Director, MTO’s at MFS Africa noted that a partnership like this is unprecedented in the industry, with huge potential benefits, value, and impact implications in the long run. “At MFS Africa, we have always believed in making payments as simple as possible. Payment infrastructures globally have traditionally remained fragmented and local in nature. Africa’s 54 countries are diverse not just in terms of population, development levels, growth rates, and stability but with payment infrastructure and regulations as well. Africa’s fast-growing populations and markets present important opportunities for businesses and individuals in an environment of slowing global growth. MFS Africa has more than a decade worth of experience in navigating the challenging Africa payments landscape. Its direct relationship with mobile wallet players, banks, cash pick up networks and regulators on the continent is unmatched in the industry. Western Union is a global leader in cross-border, cross-currency money movement and payments. Through this partnership, both organisations will provide customers, businesses and Global Development Organisations across the world with access to convenient payout options in Africa. This will foster better integration between Africa and the rest of the world and will go a long way in supporting financial inclusion across the continent. Therefore, this partnership made complete sense.”



Similarly, Western Union’s ethos is based on empowering the aspiring populations of the world with accessible financial tools to improve the lives of their loved ones and communities.

Hassan Chatila, Global Head of Account Payout Network, Western Union, says, “At Western Union, we aim to be the global leader in providing accessible financial services to the world’s populations and, in turn, increase global financial inclusion. Our efforts to drive global financial inclusion means delivering on customer needs today and into the future. Through our partnership with MFS Africa, we are excited to come together and deliver on our joint commitment to bring innovative solutions for customers as they support their families and accelerate their momentum up the economic ladder.”

Mohamed Touhami El Ouazzani, Regional Vice President of Africa, Western Union, “Innovation, commitment to customer focus and financial inclusion are at the heart of everything we do at Western Union. We are deeply committed to the region and remain focused on advancing cross-border money movement solutions for the people in this region, their communities as well as the broader economy. Through our collaboration with MFS Africa, we look forward to achieving our common critical role in getting money to the places where and when it is most needed.”

This collaboration to provide access to transacting across borders will further cement MFS Africa as a preferred, better, and one-stop solution for payments into and within Africa. Whether you’re a young entrepreneur in the merchant marketplace, require access to collect loan repayments from customers or need to send bulk payments, MFS Africa strives to continuously connect senders, recipients, and service providers across the continent.

The organization’s full-service digital payments network connects over 400 million mobile money wallets, over 200 million bank accounts across Africa, and over 200,000 agents in Nigeria, to enable cross-platform and cross-border payments for remittance companies, mobile network operators, banks, non-bank financial institutions and global merchants.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/04/western-union-partners-with-mfs-africa/

Shareholders who bought MTN shares should brace them up for massive profits as telecom giant MTN announces reports of 35% to 45% higher earnings per share and 12% to 22% higher headline earnings per share than last year.
According to myBroadBrand reports, MTN disclosed that it was finalizing its results for the year ending December 31, 2022. According to JSE’s listing requirements, it is stipulated that companies are mandated to disclose trading statements when they are certain of a difference of up to 20% from the previous year in their financial reports.

MTN disclosed that its earnings per share would be around R2.67 and R3.43 which is higher than what was recorded for the 2021 financial year. It also highlighted revenue from last year consisted of losses on the deconsolidation of subsidiaries of R2.62 and a fair value gain on the acquisition or disposal of R0.99 cents.

“These are both nil for the 2022 financial year,” MTN disclosed.

MTN earnings per share, however, does not consider impairment losses that relate to investments, goodwill, property, plant, and equipment of approximately -R0.44(2021 -R0. 44 (2021: -R0.64); an impairment loss on remeasurement of disposal groups of -R0.70 (2021: -R0.02); a net gain on the disposal of SA towers of R0.22 (2021: nil); and the net profit on the removal of property, plant, and equipment and intangible assets of R0.09 cents (2021: R0.05 cents) (2021: R0.05 cents).

Also according to MyBroadBrand reports, MTN also expects its headline earnings per share to rise between R1.18 and R2.27. It states that headline earnings shares were negatively affected by some non-operational and once-off items of approximately -R1.59 (2021: -R1.23), which also includes These include hyperinflation adjustments (R1.25), foreign exchange losses (-R1.81), an IFRS 2 charge arising from the MTN Ghana localization transaction (-R0.04), divestments (-R0.24), remeasurement of deferred tax assets (-R0.65), and other non-operational items (-R0.10).

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/05/shareholders-win-big-as-mtn-report-35-to-45-higher-earnings/

Over 250 youths attended the inaugural edition of a capacity building training sponsored by TD Africa Distributions Ltd., better known as TD Africa, in collaboration with technology giant, IBM to equip participants with cutting-edge digital skills.

Held on Thursday, January 26, 2023, the launchpad programme was hosted at the impressive Yudala Heights located at 13, Idowu Martins Street, VI, Lagos State, Nigeria while hundreds of other beneficiaries participated virtually.

With Nigeria experiencing a deluge of tech talents leaving the country in search of opportunities in other climes, the event was put together to equip young Nigerians with useful knowledge to aid them skill up and fill the vacuum. The programme was put together for young tech enthusiasts to garner the skills they need to kickstart a technology career or business. Participants had the opportunity to gain the foundational exposure on the journey to becoming subject matter experts on IBM Integration, Data and Security. The event saw a host of seasoned facilitators deliver masterclasses on Agile Integration for Cloud Pak, Cloud Pak for Security and Cloud Pak for Data and AI. The participants were also segregated into communities for progressive training.

“We are glad to have you here. Today, leading technology giants, IBM and TD have brought this highly sought-after skills workshop to you for free. Several IBM communities, including Data AI, Software Development, and Cyber Security, will be introduced to you. With these tools, we’ll show you how to advance your profession while also showing you how to expand your business. The long-term objective is to grow a tech community with specific expertise,’’ disclosed Bethel Achi, Business Manager for TD and IBM, while setting the tone for the event.

Also on hand was the Country General Manager, IBM West Africa, Mrs. Gbemisola Aruwayo-Obe, who welcomed the attendees and emphasised that the programme was put in place to equip participants with skills in high demand.

In addition to proving to be a high-impact event, there were also gifts for early bird participants. Additionally, the organizers provided a sumptuous lunch for everyone in attendance. Speaking after the event, one of the participants said, “I am extremely excited about this opportunity to be trained.” He further added that the training has helped him gain focus on the skill to learn from the avalanche of IT skills available. He also added that he has been “infused with soft skills” for a career leap.

In his closing remarks, Mezie Emelonye, Executive Director, TD Services, affirmed that TD will continue to invest in the youths, despite the global economic slump. He also encouraged participants to take every information that will be coming their way seriously. He added that they would get the opportunity to participate in further training, even as he revealed that some will be absorbed afterwards.

Over the years, TD Africa has partnered with other tech giants to empower young Nigerians with skills needed to thrive in the digital age. Having pioneered structured ICT distribution in the sub-region, TD Africa, founded in 1999, has remained for many years the undisputed leader in the sector and currently boasts an expansive reach of channel partners across its countries of operation which includes Nigeria and Ghana. TD Africa is credited with the enviable status of being the pioneer bulk distributor in West Africa for a plethora of renowned global brands. It is also the biggest provider of credit in the ICT ecosystem.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/02/td-africa-ibm-empower-nigerian-youths-with-digital-skills/

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, announces the arrival of three Nokia smartphones, Nokia G22, Nokia C32, and Nokia C22. All offering up to three days battery life1, with improved imaging and durability in the C-series and the first Nokia smartphone (Nokia G22) to come with repairability at its core, including a global collaboration with iFixit.



Adam Ferguson, Head of Product MarketinNokia Announces First Smartphone with Repairability at MWC 2023 Congress, HMD Global: “People value long-lasting, quality devices and they shouldn’t have to compromise on price to get it. The new Nokia G22 is purposefully built with a repairable design so you can keep it even longer, and with advanced imaging on Nokia C32 and improved durability on Nokia C22, we are bringing even more value to the C-series.”



Nokia G22 – the first Nokia smartphone with repairability at its core

Nokia G22 is the first Nokia smartphone purposefully designed with repairability at its core, taking signature Nokia phone longevity to the next level. In collaboration with iFixit, a global repair community, you can easily access repair guides and affordable parts to replace a damaged display, bent charging port, or flat battery on Nokia G22.



The new G-series smartphone also comes with a 100% recycled plastic back, OZO Playback that delivers enhanced bass and clearer sound, plus 2 years of AndroidTM OS upgrades, three years of monthly security updates2, and an extended three-year warranty3 at no extra cost.



Ben Wood, Chief Analyst, CCS Insight: “As consumers increasingly demand more sustainable and longer-lasting devices, the ability to repair smartphones easily and affordably will become a key differentiator in the market. CCS Insight’s end-user research reflects this with approximately half of the mobile phone users in Western Europe saying they would like to be able to have their device repaired at a reasonable cost if they break outside of the warranty period.”



Nokia C32 comes with the highest image quality in the C-series yet
Packing a 50MP camera and stellar imaging algorithms, Nokia C32 brings advanced imaging to an even more affordable price point. It comes in a refined design with a toughened glass finish and elegant, straight sidewalls that give the C-series a premium feel. Arriving with the latest Android 13 right out of the box, Nokia C32 delivers the most personalized software to date for a modern smartphone experience.



Nokia C22 – a durability champion offering maximum value

Nokia C22 arrives with exceptional build quality that outperforms the competition4 in rigorous free fall tests. Nokia C22 is prepared to take on the unexpected moments of daily life thanks to IP52 splash and dust protection, toughened 2.5D display glass, and rigid metal chassis housed within a strong polycarbonate unibody design. It’s packed with powerful imaging algorithms in an improved dual 13MP camera that makes capturing memories with crisp detail possible in any light.



Pricing, availability, and accessories

Nokia G22 comes in Meteor Grey and Lagoon Blue and is available in 4/64GB and 4/128GB memory and storage configurations. Global average RRP 179 Eur. Check local availability.
At-home Fit Kits for Nokia G22 are available for 5 Eur from iFixit.com. Replacement parts are available from iFixit.com at a global average price of 49.95 Eur, battery at 24.95 Eur, and charging port at 19.95 Eur.
Nokia C32 comes in Charcoal, Autumn Green, and Beach Pink, and is available in 3/64GB and 4/64GB memory and storage configurations. Global average RRP 139 Eur.
Nokia C22 comes in Charcoal and Sand and is available in 2/64GB and 3/64 GB memory and storage configurations. Global average RRP 129 Eur.
Pair with the new Nokia 65W Dual Port Wall Charger. Compatible with any USB-C™ cable so you can charge all your devices, it provides faster charging and has a case made from 70% recycled materials – available from Nokia.com for 49.99 Eur.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/01/nokia-announces-first-smartphone-with-repairability-at-mwc-2023-congress/

Clickatell the Chat Commerce and mobile messaging leader, was named a top payments innovator by MEF at the MEFFYS Awards ceremony, an honorary event at this week’s Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

Clickatell was awarded in the Payments Category for its Chat 2 Pay feature – voted by the MEF community as one of the top three innovative mobile services showcasing usability and security.

MEF’s 2023 18th Annual MEFFYS Awards ceremony on February 27 recognized winners in seven categories. The company in each category with the most votes by MEF Members and MEF Minute (newsletter) subscribers were selected for having the best idea and trend across the mobile ecosystem. To learn about all the companies shortlisted in the Payments Category, visit MEF’s MEFFY Awards website .

“We are thrilled to earn this recognition for payments innovation in digital commerce and mobile messaging,” said Pieter de Villiers, CEO and Co-Founder at Clickatell. “Our legacy and leadership in payments and mobile messaging are based on the needs of our customers. We are only as successful as our customers are.”

Clickatell’s Chat 2 Pay feature is a digital payment enabler – creating a new channel for businesses to request payments. Chat 2 Pay makes it possible for brands to improve their customer service and to extend their digital commerce offering by providing an effortless, convenient and secure way to make payments within mobile messaging channels such as SMS and WhatsApp.

Chat 2 Pay takes Clickatell’s decades of developing Chat Commerce solutions for global customers and delivers a simple and comprehensive way for merchants to offer payments and transactions to consumers in mobile messaging. Chat 2 Pay enables merchants to securely accept payments in mobile messaging by sending consumers a payment link via SMS or WhatsApp. In its design of Chat 2 Pay, Clickatell efficiently has orchestrated the complex relationship between mobile messaging, payments or the order management system (OMS) of their customers, and in the process mitigates the risk of merchants managing payment card details.

There are a lot of payment solutions and products on the market and the big differentiator of Chat 2 Pay is that Clickatell orchestrates the process between the mobile messaging channel, the payment gateway and the OMS. It’s a very easy functionality for a merchant to “switch on” and manage. The feature is part of the Clickatell Platform, and is easy to use, convenient and quick to implement for businesses.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/03/01/clickatell-recognized-as-top-payments-innovator-by-mobile-ecosystem-forum/

Since the discovery of AI and the rise of ChatGPT in November last year, we have seen the development of more AI tools that are designed to enhance productivity and save time, which could be used to develop more creative ideas.

Although most people were worried that AI tools might replace certain job roles like copywriters, and content writers. Certain roles in the programming industry also felt threatened by the rise of AI. However, it has been established through various tests that AI tools can not effectively replicate very creative copywriters as well as content writers, and even programmers because their output still needs to be polished by human experts.

Content creation is one of the most sought-after skills in the last few years and more creative ideas are being developed. It is important to know how to use AI tools which could boost productivity, providing you with more time to brainstorm ideas.

Here are some tools to pick up in 2023 to get you started as a content creator

Descript(AI Audio and Video Editor)
If you are into video content or you own a podcast show, this is one AI tool you should get used to. This AI tool allows you to record your podcast even when hosts and guests are not in the same location via Zoom or Skype call. It also allows users to transcribe both video and audio calls. On descript, you can record, edit, mix, and also collaborate.

One of the huge benefits of Descript is that it requires no previous experience due to its easy-to-use settings.

Frase (AI-Powered Answer Bot)
If your content creation borders around writing, which can sometimes be difficult for writers. Frase is an AI tool that helps creates outlines based on content on the internet. Frase is also designed to suggest keywords, using answered questions by users, which could help your content rank better.

Neural Text
Neural text is a powerful AI content generation tool that automates your entire writing process. The platform offers its, users, a keyword research tool that provides them with access to several searched volumes for a particular keyword or phrase. Neural text also offers a content brief tool that provides the user with information about competitors’ content, and a search engine results page (SERP).

Neural text offers Ai copywriting tool which helps create marketing copies for things like Facebook Ads, Email subject lines, and blog outlines based on certain inputs.

Copy.Ai
One of the nice things about Copy AI is the free version that offers users its features without payment. For writers, writer’s block is not new, but with copy ai tool, you can overcome it and write content efficiently and quickly.

Canva
This is for content creators that rely heavily on images and design to create content. Canva is one of the most versatile design tools that provides its users with different templates to design and edit images and add text and video to images. With little to no experience, users can come up with designs using the already-designed templates which are available for both free and paid versions. It also allows creators to create designs with sizes specified for each social media application. Users can also schedule designs to be shared on their socials and share also with Canva’s large community of designers.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/25/ai-tools-to-get-you-started-as-a-content-creator-in-2023/

African-owned fintech platforms Chipper Cash and Payday, have reported N182m in sales in processing purchases of Elon Musk’s Starlink to Nigerians.

This is coming after Starlink, a satellite internet service provider, owned by Twitter CEO, Elon Musk was recently launched in Nigeria which sparked reactions from many Nigerians that it would give telecoms giants like Glo, MTN, and Airtel, a run for their money.

Nigerians who initially experienced challenges of purchasing Starlink kits can now purchase the Starlink kits and subscribe to its services via Chipper Cash and Payday. These two fintech platforms were selected as preferred options by the satellite internet service providers to enable Nigerians to purchase the kits.The company disclosed this in a statement on its website, saying “For Naira Payments, please use Payday. $43/month for service and $600 for hardware.”. It also named virtual cards funded with naira for its services.

Meanwhile, Ugandan tech mogul Ham Serunjogi, who owns Chipper Cash has disclosed through a post on his verified Twitter account that users in Nigeria have spent more than $100,000 on SpaceX Starlink kits using ChipperCash Visa cards.

So also, the Nigerian founder of Payday, Favor Ori shared similar reports in a tweet with his platform that Payday has processed over $300,000 in payments for Starlink since its launch.

“We have helped Starlink process over $300,000 since launch.” He tweeted.

Nigerians have also taken to twitter to share their various experiences using Elon Musk’s satellite internet, many have agreed that it is reliable for faster internet speed.

Do you make use of Starlink? How is it?

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/21/starlink-purchases-records-n182m-sales/

The Nigerian All-Share Index closed negative, falling by 0.06% to close at 54,189.31 points.

The performance was due to profit-taking in large-cap stocks such as GTCO (-0.40%) and ACCESSCORP (-1.63%). Consequently, the YTD return decreased to 5.73% as market capitalisation decreased by ₦19.09 billion to close at ₦29.52 trillion.

The sectoral performance marginally weakened as three of the five indices under coverage declined while the Imdustrial index closed flat. The Banking index, led the laggards, falling by 0.38% on GTCO (-0.40%). The Insurance and Consumer Goods Indices, followed suit, falling by 0.22%, and 0.16% on LINKASSURE (-4.44%), and UNILEVER (-0.38%) respectively. Conversely, the Oil & Gas index, the only gainer, rose by 0.28% on MRS (+10.00%).

Investors’ sentiment weakened but remained negative as the market breadth decreased to 0.67x from 0.93x. This was illustrated by the decline of 15 stocks, led by VERITASKAP (-4.76%) and LINKASSURE (-4.44%) and the appreciation of 10 stocks, led by MRS (+10.00%) and TRIPPLEG (+9.63%). Activity level strengthened as the total volume and value increased by 64.38% and 332.38%, as investors exchanged about 254.17 mn units of shares worth over ₦15.77bn.

We expect buy-interest to return as the equities market present decent opportunities amid declining yields in the fixed-income market.

Fixed Income

There was mixed sentiments across the bond yields curve as two of the bonds under our coverage compressed while the yields on the FGN-JAN-2026 and FGN-JUL-2030 bond paper closed flat. The yields on the FGN-APR-2023 and FGN-MAR-2024 compressed by 17bps, and 2bps respectively.

The yields on the 91, and 364-day papers closed flat at 3.85%, and 3.79% respectively while the yield on the 182-day paper inched higher by 34bps to close at 4.51%.

We expect market activity to be influenced by the liquidity levels in the financial system.

Banking Stocks Drag the Local Bourse Southwards, NGX ASI Sheds 6bps
Mixed Sentiments across the Bond Yield Curve
Negative Performance in Global Stocks
Brent Crude Reports @ $83.08/barrel
Mixed Performance in African Stocks
Naira Depreciates in the Parallel Market

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/22/banking-stocks-drag-local-bourse-southwards/

Ahead of the 2023 presidential election which is set to take place on the 25th of February, all across the nation, President Muhammadu Buhari has warned that there should be no riots or protest after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announces the results of the 2023 presidential election.

President Buhari who gave this warning in a set of tweets that he shared on his personal Twitter platform on Thursday.

The president also called on all the candidates at all levels who are candidates in this election to respect the choice of the voters and also accept the result pronounced by INEC.

The tweet which reads “Saturday, February 25, 2023 will make it exactly one year since I assented to the Electoral Act 2022, one of the most important legacies of our Administration, and a significant contribution to our vision of improving the quality of Nigeria’s electoral process.

“Since my assumption of office, we have worked so hard to ensure that we pass on a legacy of free, fair, credible, safe, and peaceful elections. We will continue to act with neutrality and allow the rule of law to take precedence over political expediency.

“Let me remind all Nigerians, not for the first time, that, this is the only country we have, and we must do everything to keep it safe, united and peaceful.

“There should be no riots or acts of violence after the announcement of the election results. All grievances, personal or institutional, should be channelled to the relevant Courts.”

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/24/nigeria-decides-2023-accept-election-results-by-inec-avoid-riots-buhari-warns/

The rapid growth of mobile money technology has disrupted the financial sector in Sub-Saharan Africa, fuelling social-economic transformation in many countries and the growth has provided considerable benefits to citizens looking to access reliable financial services.

In fact, Africa accounts for 70% of the world’s $1 trillion USD mobile money value. In 2021, the value of Africa’s mobile money transactions increased 39% to $701.4 billion USD from $495 billion USD in 2020, highlighting the future of banking in the continent as mobile money reduces transaction costs for users and helps households to manage their cash flows more effectively, manage risk and build working capital.

In Cameroon, the rise of mobile money has enabled 98% of the population to be covered by a mobile GSM network (2G and above), accelerating financial inclusion and improving the welfare of low-income households.

However, criminals have also discovered the opportunity this presents and the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (ANTIC) reported that cybercrime caused financial losses of 12.2 billion CFA Francs to the Cameroonian economy in 2021, double the losses reported in 2019. These losses were primarily due to scamming, and phishing, a technique used by fraudsters to obtain personal information to perpetrate identity theft amounted to 6 billion CFA Francs.

With these developments, managing security and privacy in a dynamic and vulnerable environment remains crucial. WorldRemit, a leading global payments company, has identified the top four money transfer scams occurring in the industry in 2023 that Cameroonian residents should look out for.

The four scams include email scams, such as taxation scams, where scammers impersonate the ATO, and online dating scams, where scammers can play on emotional triggers to get you to send money. In 2021, Interpol’s African Cyberthreat Assessment Report indicated that the highest-reported and most pressing cyber threat in Africa was indeed online scamming.

Additionally, online shopping scams, such as overpayment scams, where scammers ask you to ‘refund’ an overpayment before you realise the credit card has been stolen or a payment receipt is fake, and Facebook impersonation scams, including money flipping scams that promise quick cash if you invest.

“WorldRemit takes online security very seriously and we understand many of the tricks and techniques behind some of the most popular scams. We want to educate Cameroonians on what scams look like so that our customers can understand what to avoid and protect themselves from getting scammed,” said Imane Charioui, Director of Francophone Africa at WorldRemit.


“Always double-check who is asking you to send money, and if you are not comfortable with the transaction, don’t pursue it. Also avoid using third-party intermediaries, or agents who offer to make transactions on your behalf, and if you need to transfer money overseas, once you have checked the recipient, use a trusted money transfer service like WorldRemit to ensure that your money does arrive in time.”

Imane Charioui shares her top tips to avoid these four popular money transfer scams.

Tips for avoiding email scams:

Don’t click on links or open attachments in an unsolicited email.
Check the sender’s email address matches the website address of the organisation it says it’s from.
Be wary if the email doesn’t use your name and says something like “Dear customer”.
Avoid emails with a sense of urgency, asking you to act at once.
Beware of emails with poor grammar and spelling mistakes.
Never share personally identifiable information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited. This includes banking and credit card information, your birth date, and Social Security/ Social Insurance numbers.
Keep your devices updated with antivirus software to protect yourself from any malware.
Tips to avoid online dating scams:

Don’t trust those asking for you to share money, gifts or your bank account/credit card details.
Use social media channels and online to see whether their dating profile is consistent with their other online profiles.
As a rule, we advise that you shouldn’t send money to someone unless you have met them in person or via video.
Tips for avoiding online shopping scams:

Make sure that the website has ‘https’ in the URL (the extra ‘s’ is for ‘secure’) and a small lock icon on the address bar. Even then, the site could be unreliable.
Read reviews about the quality of the merchandise, and make sure you’re not buying cheap and/or counterfeit goods.
Check on the website for a clear refund policy and method of contact should you have a customer query.
The website should not include an option to use an IMT to make the payment.
Tips for avoiding impersonation scams:

Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know and have never met.
Don’t share your password with others.
When logging in, use two-factor authentication.
Avoid connecting to public and free Wi-Fi networks.
Keep your browser and apps updated.
Add an added layer of security and use proactive cybersecurity software.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/21/four-money-transfer-scams-to-beware-of-in-2023/

To bridge the digital divide in Africa, George Asamani, Managing Director, Sub-Saharan Africa at Project Management Institute (PMI), has urged schools in the continent to adopt three ‘R’- ‘reading’, ‘riting’ and ‘rithmetic’ to deepen digital literacy that would empower the next generation.



Speaking at the media intervention recently, Asamani stated that digital literacy is the ability to use, create, and communicate with digital technologies and media. It’s an imperative in Africa because it can enable better education, innovation, and economic growth.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, 230 million jobs will require digital skills by 2030, according to the Digital Skills in Sub-Saharan Africa report that IFC recently published,” he added.



Africa controls 70% of the world’s $1trillion mobile money market, which lulls you into believing the continent is a land of digital abundance. Being Pollyanna about the explosive growth in mobile payments masks the full magnitude of the digital divide.



For instance, he said, “Compared with other regions in the world Sub-Saharan Africa still has the highest monthly cost, as a percentage of GDP, for one gigabyte of data.



“The success of mobile money and the resultant rise of African techpreneurs has spurred the technology investment scene on the continent. During the last decade, the promise of Africa’s $180bn digital economy started an undersea cable race among Silicon Valley giants to build the region’s internet infrastructure. However, urgent action is still very much required – as the African continent needs a smarter approach to addressing data illiteracy and digital skills shortages.”



“The information explosion we have today is something we have never seen before. Data is all around us, and it is playing a vital, ever-growing role in our lives and livelihoods – even when we do not always realise it. Connectivity is enriching the human experience, but only for those who are connected,” Asamani revealed.



According to the 2021 Ibrahim Forum Report, 82% of pupils in Sub-Saharan Africa lack access to the internet and 89% to household computers. At least 20 million people live in areas not covered by a mobile network. Moreover, wide gender disparities in ownership of and access to digital devices have left many girls behind. Also, only 50% of countries have computer skills as part of their school curriculum, compared with 85% globally.

Although increased internet access and related infrastructure profoundly affect the continent, they are only partial solutions to narrowing the digital divide. People often limit the divide to access and devices, without acknowledging the gulf between people with digital skills and those without. The new work opportunities that technology is creating need people to be digitally literate, with more than just the ability to use the internet. These include skills in data analytics, app development and network management.

However, policymakers have primarily focused on delivering visible results: affordable internet, with little influence on strategies to address skill development. Outside of Kenya, where coding was introduced in primary and secondary schools last year, curricula at best address basic computer literacy — the ability to use a computer.



Speaking on policies the managing director of PMI said, “Policies to promote digital literacy in Africa are important to address the challenges of digital divide on the continent. Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy is a good example of a policy that seeks to drive digital literacy and make Nigeria a global outsourcing destination for digital jobs. The strategy emphasises the need to partner with relevant institutions to promote globally competitive training that focuses on digital technologies. A practical example is Nigeria’s collaboration with IBM.



With technology evolving rapidly, students and workers need access to flexible and affordable reskilling pathways to transition into new digital careers. Universities must also look at how they can deliver a talent bench to take up these jobs.



Project Management Institute, a non-profit organisation, has been advocating to make it easier for students to access skills development opportunities over the internet. It offers free citizen development courses to interested universities in Africa. But coordinating mechanisms are needed to improve interaction and collaboration across government, educational institutes, training providers and businesses.



Citizen development is one of the strategies to improve digital literacy. Citizen developers create software and applications with little or no coding experience and will be central to digital transformation in the future. If we continue to ignore technological progress and the accelerating rate of new skill sets required, we will produce a workforce unfit for the 230 million jobs requiring digital skills by 2030 (IFC 2019 Digital Skills Report).



“As we face the fourth industrial revolution, improving access at the expense of the ability to code and participate in the digital economy is squandering the best opportunity in decades to close the digital divide,” Asamani added.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/17/pmi-urges-schools-to-embrace-digital-literacy-in-schools/

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN has opened a portal for Nigerians to to deposit the old Naira notes by filling up forms.

This development comes after the adjournment of the case on the legality of the February 10, 2023 deadline for the Naira Swap to February 22 by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court adjourned the case till February 22, 2023, and ordered that the old Naira notes remain legal tender until it sits next week Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the portal for depositing old Naira notes has opened up on the Central Bank’s official website.

On the portal, which is on cbn.gov.ng, depositors are required to fill in their Bank Verification Number (BVN), phone number, email address, bank details, address, the amount to be deposited as well as the denominations to be deposited, after which a reference number is generated.

A guideline on the deposit of the old N200, N500, and N1,000 banknotes commenced on Wednesday afternoon and is expected to run till Friday, February 17.

To deposit their old notes at the CBN branches, customers would be required to have a completed online application form, copy of valid means of identification, and a completed teller. Once the account is verified, the equivalent of the cash would then be deposited in the customer’s bank account.

“The CBN Branches do not open accounts for individuals. As such, Individuals who wish to deposit their old, redesigned notes must have an active account with a Deposit Money Bank (Commercial Bank).

“Individuals who wish to deposit their old, redesigned notes are required to be orderly and comply with the instructions of the security personnel and other staff when in the Bank’s premises. if validation turns out negative, the Bank will return the unvalidated old, redesigned notes in the form deposited,” the guideline reads.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/16/cbn-opens-portal-for-deposit-of-old-naira-notes/

With the scarcity in the circulation of new notes and the old notes being rejected by traders and danfo drivers in some parts of the country, some POS operators are now charging above N200 for N1000 and as much as 2500 for N10000.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has stepped in and released a list of emergency telephone numbers that Nigerians could use to report Point of Sale agents who are engaging in the selling of new naira notes or charging above N200 for withdrawal of cash for up to N10,000.

According to Mr. Joseph Omayuku, Director of CBN’s Governor’s Department made this known on Tuesday, in a briefing with journalists in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Capital.


Mr. Joseph warned individuals and bodies engaging in such illegal practices henceforth. He also advised members of the public to report those who fail to comply with the directive by reaching out to the CBN contact center on 07002255226, Telephone Ext: 711025-7; or sending an email to contact@cbn.gov.ng and its social media handles.


Nigerians have endured the scarcity of new naira notes since the commencement of the first deadline date in January before another 10 days was added and still, it seems there is no endor solution to the naira problem, while some governors have resolved to sue the Federal Government for the sufferings experienced by the people in their respective state.


Although Nigerians have been advised to go cashless and make use of online payment platforms or mobile banking for their transactions, this solution has so far been marred by failed transactions.

Observers have come out to say the challenges experienced by digital platforms to process the increasing number of online transactions due to the naira redesign policy is because the platform is not strong enough, however, the apex bank has countered these reports saying it is “not as bad as to warrant rejection of transfer payments.”

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/15/naira-scarcity-nigerians-can-now-report-pos-operators-charging-above-200-cbn/

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) among other obstacles are faced with the inability to have a seamless business operation due to internet connectivity.

There is a need to digitalise businesses for a wider reach and global influence. Service providers have come up with strategies to enhance internet access. 3G, 4G, and 5G are now the standard levels of internet connectivity.

Internet penetration as a crucial indicator for the adoption of technologies accesses the usage of the internet in regions as demographics is a factor. Internet penetration is lower in many developing nations because of poor infrastructure, expensive expenses, and restricted access to technology. As more individuals acquire access to technology and the infrastructure for internet connectivity develops, the rate of internet penetration keeps increasing.

As a result, SpaceX introduced Starlink, an internet satellite service that promises to address the problems of regional internet service providers by using satellites that are sent into orbit. The Starlink service provides Internet connection to some of the world’s most remote regions using low-orbiting satellites. This is done to spread the internet over the world. The creation of the internet has aided in the advancement of commerce and lifestyles and served as the basis for numerous subsequent innovations.

SMEs are not left out in the vision of Starlink. Starlink makes it possible for SMEs to access the internet with quick and dependable broadband packages. The ongoing expansion of Internet accessibility and affordability will lead to commercial growth for businesses of all sizes. Starlink will result in small enterprises growing sustainably. Low-cost access to the internet and data services enables small businesses to concentrate on what they do best—serve clients and generate income.

In developing nations, access to dependable and fast internet is limited, especially in rural and small towns where conventional broadband services are frequently unavailable or unreliable. By giving them access to dependable and fast internet, Starlink’s satellite-based broadband internet service might have a substantial influence on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).

Adoption of improved technologies: A global, enhanced internet service has several positive effects on how businesses are delivered. Adopting new technologies and integrating with advancements made around the world is relatively simple for remote regions. By allowing SMEs to participate in e-commerce, reach new markets, and utilize cloud-based solutions, the availability of dependable and high-speed broadband can positively affect SME activities. The effect on this is increased productivity of SMEs activities.

Access to wider user base: Increasing the user base already in place is crucial for business expansion. Access to a wider user base can make it easier to expand your customers, increase revenue, and penetrate new markets.

Low latency: Business activities, communication, and feedback from remote places are not delayed in a low traffic internet environment. Predictions indicate that there will be a significant impact on how widely SMEs use the internet. Starlink may be able to offer SMEs high-speed internet access and support big data transmission because of its worldwide coverage and low latency. Business processes will become more productive and efficient with depending on outdated wired internet connections thereby, generating more revenue.

In summary, Starlink has a greater positive impact on SMEs operations than it would cost to purchase it, and the expected expansion of its internet penetration has the potential to greatly aid in the scaling of SMEs activities. SMEs can create income at a reasonable cost if they have access to quick and dependable internet connectivity.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/13/how-deepened-internet-penetration-will-scale-sme-activity-in-nigeria/

FIFA is pleased to announce that the media accreditation process for The Best FIFA Football Awards™ 2022, which will take place at the Salle Pleyel in Paris, France, on 27 February 2023, has now been launched.

The deadline for submitting accreditation requests is 23 February 2023.

The process will be handled via the FIFA Media Hub (https://apo-opa.info/3lB2oAY) for written press and photographers.

Please be informed that there is limited space available at the Salle Pleyel. FIFA will endeavour to guarantee that the accredited press is able to work in the best possible way, in line with FIFA standards.

Please ensure you complete both of the following steps when requesting accreditation:

FIFA Media Hub account (https://apo-opa.info/3YIGV7g):

Media representatives who do not have an approved FIFA Media Hub account should register at https://apo-opa.info/3Yyv5Ny. Please note that approval to access the FIFA Media Hub does not mean that you have been granted accreditation.

Submit accreditation form:

Please complete the media accreditation form via the FIFA Media Hub. All applications are subject to confirmation. Confirmation will not be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Information for broadcasters
Broadcasters interested in covering the event should contact: BroadcasterServicing@fifa.org

Furthermore, please be advised that:
International applicants are responsible for obtaining their own visas; and
Successful applicants will be notified and provided with further information in due course.

Information on The Best FIFA Football Awards
The voting process for the player, coach, and goalkeeper of the year for 2022, in both men’s and women’s football, started on 12 January 2023 and was closed on 3 February 2023. The full voting and awards process is detailed in the Rules of Allocation (https://apo-opa.info/3HOiPBf).

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/13/media-accreditation-process-for-the-best-fifa-football-awards-launched/

Inflation rates in Ghana are at a record high, but what is causing the increase, and how does it affect you? Ghana’s inflation rate currently stands at over 40%. Predictions suggest that inflation in Ghana will peak in the first quarter of 2023, following another slump in the Ghana Cedi in November 2022.

Here, we are looking at the causes of inflation in Ghana from August 2022 to today. Read on to see how that inflation impacts the exchange rate for Ghanaian currency, why the Ghana Cedi is depreciating, and what that means for your money transfers to Ghana.

What is causing inflation in Ghana?

Currently, the inflation rate in Ghana continues to rise though analysts predict that it will decelerate in 2023. The inflation rate in Ghana is affected by many elements, and there are different factors involved in how inflation is calculated.

Firstly, the heightened political division in Ghana between the ruling New Patriotic Party and their opposers has resulted in an opposition request for the removal of the current Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, due to his handling of the current financial situation. Political instabilities, situations, and risks can have a vast impact on inflation rates, as they will affect how much a government will be able to borrow in times of need. Over the course of the last year, Ghana has borrowed money in attempts to stabilise inflation, so there is also the possible risk of further debt, which will influence political conversations.

Further, prices for commodities are a leading indication of inflation risks, and are often used in predicting inflation or deflation, though high global commodity prices can also add to high inflation levels.

Prices of crude oil surged globally after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, but oil is one of Ghana’s highest sources of export revenue, and oil prices in Ghana are driving inflation, causing rising energy costs. Ghana’s current inflation rates are partly a result of global oil price increases causing domestic increases at gas stations, as well as generally in transportation costs, with a knock on to other factors such as food supply chains.

Though food is generally excluded from ‘core’ inflation measures, the rising prices for food was the initial cause of the inflation rate in Ghana, created by panic-buying as the country entered lockdowns due to Covid-19 in 2020. Despite making some recovery, inflation in Ghana soared again in mid-2021, after the food supply chain ran into issues of oil pricing, a bird flu outbreak in one of Ghana’s food-producing regions, and climate change causing delayed rainfall. The increase in food costs affected Ghana’s inflation rates as specific ingredients became harder to source, and therefore more costly.

Today, Ghana’s currency, the Cedi, is depreciating against the US dollar, and is now one of the worst performing global currencies. This is one of the main factors of the inflation rate in Ghana. A weakened currency means that hikes in import costs must be passed on to individuals within the country, adding pressure to already-higher costs of food and transportation.

How this affects Ghana Cedi’s inflation rate

Inflation and currency exchange rates are very closely related, and changes in one have an impact on the other. In the last year, the Ghana Cedi has lost more than half of its value against the US dollar. As imported commodities are priced in US dollars, when inflation rises, the same amount of Ghana Cedi buys less than it did before, causing currency depreciation in Ghana of the Cedi against USD. Exchange rates are often determined by a perceived desirability of a particular currency, so a decrease in that currency’s purchasing power leads to a decrease in desirability, further lowering the exchange rate.

Sending money to Ghana with WorldRemit

WorldRemit wants to make sure you get the most for your money, even through tough times. Though the depreciation of the Ghana Cedi has impacted money transfers to Ghana, WorldRemit always tries to offer the closest exchange rates to the market. Compared to other money transfer companies, WorldRemit places itself as the most competitive in terms of exchange rates and Google Exchange Rates. To check real time exchange rates for money transfers with WorldRemit, use our calculator.

With WorldRemit, it is easy to send Cedi to friends and family in Ghana as mobile money, bank transfer, airtime top up, or for cash pickup. Once you’re registered with WorldRemit, and we’ve verified your information, you can send money to family and friends via our website, or on our iOs or Android app. You will pay no fees on your first three transfers with our 3FREE offer, and 90% of money transfers to Ghana are ready within minutes.

Disclaimer: The contents of this blog post does not constitute legal or financial advice and is provided for general information purposes only. If you require specific legal and / or financial advice you should contact a specialist lawyer or financial advisor. Information true at time of publishing.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2023/02/08/inflation-in-ghana-and-cedi-depreciation-causes-and-impact-on-money-transfers/