Bank of Ghana Pushes Crypto Firms to Register as Standard Chartered Declares GH¢227m Dividend

Ghana’s financial space saw a series of key developments, from the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) crackdown on unregistered virtual asset providers to a surge in savings and loans activity, all while Standard Chartered Ghana delivered strong dividends to its shareholders.

BoG Orders Crypto Firms to Register by August 15

The Bank of Ghana is taking a bold step toward regulating the fast-growing digital asset sector. In a directive released on July 10, the BoG mandated all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), local or international, to register with the Central Bank by August 15, 2025.

This registration applies to exchanges, digital wallets, custodians, and crypto asset issuers operating in Ghana, even if they serve clients digitally without a physical presence. However, the central bank clarified that this is not a license to operate, but a step to inform the design of future legal frameworks.

Failure to comply may lead to disqualification from licensing and regulatory penalties. The BoG aims to align Ghana’s digital finance rules with international best practices and prevent illicit financial activities.

Registration is now live at this link and inquiries can be directed to vasp@bog.gov.gh.

Deposit Confidence Up as Savings and Loans Assets Surge 30.6%

Confidence in Ghana’s savings and loans sector is climbing sharply. According to the Ghana Association of Savings and Loans Companies (GHASALC), the sector saw a 39.4% increase in deposit mobilisation in 2024, reaching GHS 6.1 billion.

Total assets surged by 30.6% to GHS 9.63 billion, while gross loans stood at GHS 6.48 billion. Net loans grew 20.5% year-on-year, reflecting deeper credit support to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

At the 15th AGM of GHASALC, CEO Tweneboah Kodua Boakye stressed borrower transparency and revealed potential structural reforms following engagements with the BoG.

“The Governor has assured us of continued collaboration, including possible changes to the industry’s identity and regulatory framework,” Boakye said.

Standard Chartered Declares GH¢1.67 Dividend Per Share at 55th AGM

Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC has reaffirmed its strength and stability by declaring a dividend payout of GH¢1.67 per ordinary share, totalling GH¢227.94 million at its 55th Annual General Meeting.

The Bank highlighted its resilience amid global headwinds, citing strong capital adequacy and efficient operations. Chairman Ebenezer Twum Asante praised the Bank’s ability to drive long-term value, while CEO Mansa Nettey reiterated a focus on innovation and sustainable growth.

“We remain committed to delivering long-term shareholder returns while deepening client engagement,” said Nettey.

With 129 years of operation in Ghana, the bank is betting big on integrated cross-border banking and tailored wealth management solutions for a growing middle class.

Investor’s Insight: Ghana’s E-Commerce Is Booming

Ghana’s digital marketplace is heating up. The e-commerce sector is expected to hit US$1.04 billion by 2025 and surge to US$1.52 billion by 2029, according to Statista.

Driven by more than 8.1 million projected users, the sector offers major opportunities for investors in logistics, payments, retail tech, and digital services—especially for reaching Ghana’s fast-growing urban population.

Treasury Rates Fall Sharply

• 91-day T-bill: 14.57% (down from 24.79% YoY)

• 182-day T-bill: 15.02% (down from 26.75% YoY)

This marks a significant easing in government borrowing costs, reflecting improved investor sentiment and possibly reduced inflationary pressures.

USD/GHS Update

• GH¢10.41/USD (BOG Interbank Rate as of July 10, 2025)

• Cedi continues to show some resilience in the face of global dollar pressures.

From crypto compliance deadlines to surging deposit confidence and strong banking dividends, Ghana’s financial ecosystem is showing signs of reform, resilience, and innovation. Investors and stakeholders alike should stay alert as these shifts offer both opportunity and regulatory complexity.

Stay tuned to the Cedi Board® for real-time updates on Ghana’s financial pulse. From prices and policy to investment tips that help you make sense of the numbers.