The Capital Markets and Securities Authority (CMSA) has called on stakeholders to embrace innovation that fosters capital market growth and expands financial inclusion.

Speaking yesterday in Dar es Salaam during the official launch of the Vertex Mobile Trading App, Alfred Mkombo, CMSA’s Director of Policy, Research and Planning, emphasized the role of digital solutions in extending market access to underserved communities.

“The introduction of new digital technologies like the Vertex app ensures that marginalized groups can access and benefit from capital market opportunities,” he said.

Mkombo described the app as a significant step forward for Tanzania’s capital markets, saying it is designed to serve all segments of society by promoting financial inclusion and empowering more individuals to invest.

“As regulators, we commend this initiative,” he added. “It represents a transformative advancement—introducing efficiency, accessibility, and convenience to the capital markets.”

He noted that the app uses user-friendly technology to broaden access, allowing individuals to take greater control over their financial growth.

Echoing Mkombo’s remarks, Ali Othman, Technological Officer speaking on behalf of the CEO of the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE), hailed the app as timely and impactful.

“This is innovation that brings greater benefits,” he said, pointing out that the launch aligns with ongoing digital transformation in the sector.

He revealed that in the first quarter alone, 25,000 new Central Depository System (CDS) accounts were opened, with nearly 200 being activated daily via mobile platforms.

This trend, Othman explained, signals a clear shift toward digital investment, reinforcing the relevance of tools like the Vertex app.

Tanzania now has over 700,000 active CDS accounts, with youth comprising the largest and most active demographic—an encouraging sign for the future of domestic capital markets.

However, he acknowledged that Tanzania still trails its regional peers in terms of digital investor penetration, highlighting the importance of platforms like Vertex in closing the gap.

According to him, the Vertex Interactive Trading App is more than a trading platform—it’s a gateway to increased national participation in capital markets.

Nonetheless, Othman cautioned that geographical barriers and persistent misconceptions about investing still hinder broader adoption. Bridging these gaps, he said, will be key to unlocking the app’s full potential.

Frank Kakweli, Operations Manager at Vertex International Securities, said the app aims to enhance financial literacy and empower users with accessible investment education. By providing accurate and timely information, the app helps individuals make informed decisions about their financial futures.

Kakweli added that the app simplifies the entire investment process. Users can open accounts, buy and sell shares, and track market performance entirely from their mobile phones, eliminating the need for brokers or physical documentation.

He said that mobile trading offers multiple advantages. It facilitates seamless buying, selling, and switching of assets. It saves time and reduces costs. It is accessible anytime, anywhere. It also supports automatic savings, fund transfers, and integrated investment options.

Kakweli went on to stress that ownership of financial assets delivers both financial and non-financial benefits. Financially, investors benefit from dividends, interest, capital gains, distributable income, and improved access to loans, while using their investments as collateral and gaining a better understanding of their market value and net worth.

Non-financial benefits include increased credibility and a more meaningful contribution to economic growth.

“While 72 percent of Tanzanians use mobile money services, only 33 percent are aware of financial investment options,” Kakweli revealed. “This reveals a vast opportunity for education and outreach—one that the Vertex app is well-positioned to address.