The Nairobi Securities Exchange will allow investors to buy and sell shares in single units starting August 8, 2025, in a move aimed at expanding access to the capital markets and deepening retail participation.

The policy shift follows amendments to the NSE Equity Trading Rules and marks a departure from the previous requirement that trades be made in minimum multiples, typically 100 shares. The change eliminates the Odd Lot Board, the platform historically used for smaller trades, consolidating all transactions onto the Main Order Book.

The reform is expected to lower entry barriers for small-scale investors, offering them greater flexibility and access to listed equities without the burden of bulk purchases. The NSE said the adjustment is part of its broader strategy to enhance financial inclusion and align with global equity trading practices.

“This initiative is part of our broader strategic efforts to increase financial inclusion and market accessibility for all investors,” said Frank Mwiti, CEO of the NSE. “It aligns with our vision of increasing the number of active investors to 9 million by 2029.”

Under the updated rules, however, a safeguard remains in place for determining official daily closing prices. The NSE clarified that the closing price for a listed equity will only be updated if at least 100 units are traded in a session. If that threshold is not met, the previous day’s average will carry forward.

The single-unit trading policy is the latest in a string of reforms by the NSE aimed at invigorating investor confidence and broadening domestic participation.