The chief executive of Airtel Africa Plc, Mr Sunil Kumar Taldar, has disclosed that the company remains on course to list its mobile money business, Airtel Money, before the end of June 2026. He made this known while speaking on the company’s latest financial performance, noting that preparations for the planned listing are progressing despite the absence of final decisions on key details.
Business Post had reported in March 2024 that the mobile network operator was considering selling shares of Airtel Money to the public through an initial public offer, with the transaction expected to raise $4 billion. At the time, the company was exploring different options for the listing, including markets in London, the United Arab Emirates, or other parts of Europe.
Although discussions have been held with potential advisers, the firm has not yet concluded on the timing, location, or size of the IPO. However, progress was recorded in September 2025 when the telco reportedly selected Citigroup Incorporated as advisers for the transaction. The planned IPO is expected to result in Airtel Money becoming a standalone entity before it eventually trades on a stock exchange.
Mr Taldar said operational indicators continue to improve ahead of the anticipated listing. According to him, Airtel Money’s customer base has grown to 52 million users, up from 44.6 million recorded as of June 2025. He also revealed that the subsidiary processed transactions worth more than $210 billion within a year, based on the company’s nine-month financial results released on Friday.
“Our push to enhance financial inclusion across the continent continues to gain momentum with our Mobile Money customer base expanding to 52 million, surpassing the 50 million milestone. Annualised total processed value of over $210 billion in Q3’26 underscores the depth of our merchants, agents, and partner ecosystem and remains a key player in driving improved access to financial services across Africa,” he said.
Mr Taldar added, “We remain on track for the listing of Airtel Money in the first half of 2026.”
The projected valuation of Airtel Money at $4 billion represents a significant increase from its $2.65 billion valuation in 2021. That year, the business attracted major investments, including $200 million from TPG Incorporated and $100 million from Mastercard. An affiliate of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund also acquired an undisclosed stake later in 2021 globally
