Spotlight: Analysis

Deep dives into the companies, deals, and markets shaping Africa’s economy. We go beyond the headlines to examine how businesses actually work, what drives industry trends, and why certain strategies succeed or fail. Data-driven investigations that help you understand the mechanics behind Africa’s most important business stories.

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Why super apps are proliferating across emerging markets

A new generation of Asian & African super apps are following the playbook WeChat originated.

May 2020
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Bitcoin and blockchain technology advance across Africa

With strong interest in the sector from consumers & investors, robust entrepreneurial activity, and a range of conducive factors, Africa appears to be a ripe market in the medium- and long-term.

January 2018
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Driven by the Internet, African Fashion Goes Global

Global interest in African fashion continues to rise, and innovators are leveraging the internet's reach to execute a variety of business models.

August 2017
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Innovators are Shaping Africa’s ‘Informal Economy’

Entrepreneurs & investors thrive by serving the needs of Africa's informal sector and the opportunity remains large.

August 2017
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African Startups are Increasingly Attractive to Investors

While access to capital is still a widespread issue in Africa, these ventures successfully raised significant amounts (US $500,000+) so far in 2017.

August 2017
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Profiling Internet Users in Africa: Insights from the Google Play Store

When comparing & contrasting the top Google Play apps across South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania, several overarching and country-specific themes emerge.

August 2017