Airtel Money's $7bn London IPO Leaves Out Nigerian Fintech Arm

Airtel Money said in the prospectus that it is looking at options to bring SmartCash Nigeria back into the group, consistent with how its other operations are structured, but added there can be no assurance as to the timing or outcome, which remain subject to regulatory approvals.

The prospectus describes the business as a pan-African fintech platform active in 13 African countries, serving roughly 53 million monthly active users as of June 30, 2026. According to TechCabal, the move reflects a wider trend among African telecom operators separating their fintech units from core telecom businesses, viewing mobile money as requiring its own capital structure, management, and valuation.

Pesa has launched an Australia corridor, allowing customers to send money between Australia, Nigeria, and other markets under AUSTRAC authorisation.