Two African fintech startups go public in November, marking the first IPOs since the pre-pandemic era

Two fintech startups went public on the continent in November 2025, marking the first major IPOs since the pre-pandemic era, according to Africa: The Big Deal.

South African fintech Optasia listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange on November 4, raising $345 million at a market valuation of $1.4 billion, while Moroccan fintech Cash Plus raised $82.5 million through its IPO on the Casablanca Stock Exchange on November 25, achieving a $550 million valuation.

These listings signal renewed investor confidence in African tech ventures.

The broader startup ecosystem is showing strong growth. As 2025 nears its close, African startups have raised $2.8 billion in funding, nearly 50% more than the same period last year.

Both the total equity raised and the number of ventures securing $1 million or more have increased, reflecting heightened investor interest.

In November alone, startups announced $162 million in funding, with 79% coming as equity. While this was neither a record month nor a slump, it ranked as the fifth-highest month in 2025 and is broadly in line with November 2024 ($181 million) but below November 2023 ($267 million).

Across the continent, 32 ventures raised $100,000 or more, including 16 startups that secured $1 million or above. Notable multi-million-dollar raises included:

These figures highlight a growing trend: African startups are increasingly attracting both domestic and international capital, positioning the continent as a hotspot for fintech, green energy, and agritech innovation.

With two high-profile IPOs and ongoing venture funding, 2025 is shaping up as a landmark year for Africa’s startup ecosystem, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for technology-driven growth and investment.