Burkina Faso-based lender Fidelis Finance, which specialises in financing business equipment, opened a CFAF15 billion bond subscription on the regional WAEMU capital market on 28 October 2026. The offering, named “PME Élan Croissance UMOA 3”, carries a 7% gross annual interest rate and remains open to investors until 19 November, according to the issuer’s announcement released on 31 October.
The company plans to use the proceeds for identified projects across the monetary union, where it helps small and medium-sized businesses finance productive equipment. By returning to the bond market, Fidelis Finance is extending its medium-term funding strategy among regional investors.
A five-year bond with a one-year principal grace period
Each bond is offered at par for CFAF10,000. The issue has a five-year term ending in 2031, including a one-year grace period for principal repayment. The issuer also plans to maintain an escrow reserve equal to 10% of the outstanding principal throughout the life of the bond.
Fidelis Finance cites long-term and short-term ratings of A and A1 respectively, both with a stable outlook, from Bloomfield Investment Corporation. The company says the offering memorandum received WAEMU financial markets regulator approval number EOP/26-08 on 10 September 2026. SGI Togo is acting as arranger and lead manager of the placement syndicate handling subscriptions.
Another visit to the regional bond market
The transaction follows several earlier issues used to support the group’s expansion. The BRVM admitted its “Fidelis Finance CAP25 7% 2023-2028” bonds to trading on 11 March 2024 after a CFAF14.94 billion fundraising. Another bond, “PME Élan Croissance UMOA 2 – 7% 2025-2030”, has traded on the regional exchange since 9 June 2026.