Equity Bank

In December 2007, Helios completed the $178.7 million acquisition of a 24.99% interest in Equity Bank, which is listed on the Nairobi Stock Exchange. The bank’s strategy of providing services to the previously unbanked population has enabled it to build Kenya’s largest account-holder base, and industry-leading growth rates and profitability. Post Helios’ investment, Equity Bank acquired Uganda Microfinance Limited and expanded organically into Rwanda, South Sudan and Tanzania. At the time of Helios' exit, Equity Bank was Kenya’s largest bank by number of accounts and among the top three in market capitalization and assets, having successfully developed a platform aimed at banking the previously unbanked at the bottom of the pyramid.