Airtel Eyes $2bn London Listing of Mobile Money Arm

Airtel Africa Plc is quietly preparing for a major move that could reshape Africa’s fintech space. The company is considering a public listing of its mobile money arm, Airtel Money, in what could become one of the biggest deals tied to the continent’s digital economy.

According to people familiar with the matter, the proposed Airtel Money IPO could raise between $1.5 billion and $2 billion. While discussions are still ongoing, London has emerged as the preferred location for the listing.

Airtel Money IPO gains momentum

The Airtel Money IPO reflects a broader push by the company to unlock value from its fast-growing fintech division. Over the years, mobile money has become a key driver of growth for Airtel Africa.

The business has benefited from rising digital payments and stronger financial inclusion across African markets. As more users adopt mobile wallets, the platform continues to expand rapidly.

Although London leads as the likely venue, other options remain under consideration. Exchanges in the UAE and parts of Europe have also been explored. However, no final decision has been made on timing or structure.

The listing could value Airtel Money at up to $10 billion. If achieved, this would signal strong global confidence in African fintech assets.

Growth story attracting global investors

Airtel Money has already drawn interest from major international investors. These include TPG Inc., Mastercard Inc., and an affiliate of the Qatar Investment Authority.

Their involvement highlights growing investor appetite for digital financial services across Africa.

Recent figures also support the optimism. Airtel Money recorded a 29.4% rise in revenue, reaching $986 million over nine months. At the same time, its user base crossed 52 million customers for the first time.

Earlier in the year, Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar confirmed the company’s intention to proceed with a listing. He had indicated a mid-2026 timeline, although current developments suggest that schedule could shift.

What happens next for Airtel Money

Advisory work on the deal is already underway. Citigroup Inc. is leading the process, with more banks expected to join.

Still, key decisions remain open. The company is yet to finalise the listing size, timing, or exact structure of the Airtel Money IPO.

Meanwhile, Airtel Africa is expected to release its full-year results on May 8. That update may offer clearer signals on valuation and future direction.

For now, the potential listing continues to draw attention. If completed, it could mark a defining moment for Africa’s fintech sector and reinforce the continent’s growing role in global digital finance.