Why was Stanbic IBTC fined by SEC Nigeria?

Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited was fined ₦50.145 million ($34,490) by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for using digital distribution channels during GTCO’s public offer without prior approval.

How much was the Stanbic IBTC fine?

The fine was ₦50.145 million, though Stanbic initially misreported it as ₦50.15 billion due to a clerical error. The mistake was later corrected.

What is a digital public offer in Nigeria?

A digital public offer is a capital raise conducted through apps, online platforms, and mobile channels. It improves accessibility and allows more retail investors to participate in Nigeria’s capital markets.

Why is SEC approval important for public offers?

SEC approval ensures investor protection, transparency, and fairness in Nigeria’s capital markets. It is a mandatory step for both traditional and digital public offers.

Will the Stanbic fine slow down digitalisation in Nigeria’s capital markets?

No. Digitalisation is growing rapidly, with retail investments through apps reaching ₦516.50 billion in July 2025. The fine reinforces the need for compliance but will not derail the digital drive.

When will the M5 MacBook Pro be released?

The M5 MacBook Pro is expected to launch on Wednesday, October 16, 2025, based on Apple's teaser video and insider reports from Mark Gurman.

How much will the M5 MacBook Pro cost?

The base 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro will likely start at $1,599, matching current M4 pricing. Final pricing will be confirmed at launch.

What's the difference between M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max?

The M5 is the base chip for everyday users. M5 Pro offers more CPU and GPU cores for professionals. M5 Max provides the highest performance for intensive workflows. Pro and Max variants won't arrive until early 2026.

Is the M5 MacBook Pro worth buying over M4?

Yes, if you're buying now. The M5 offers 12% faster CPU and 36% better GPU performance compared to M4, making it a significant upgrade.

Will there be a 16-inch M5 MacBook Pro?

Initially, only the 14-inch model with the base M5 chip will launch. The 16-inch models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are expected in early 2026.

Can I pre-order the M5 MacBook Pro?

Pre-orders should open shortly after Apple's official announcement on Wednesday, October 16, 2025.

What colors will the M5 MacBook Pro come in?

Apple hasn't announced color options yet, but expect the traditional Space Gray and Silver finishes at minimum.

Will the M5 MacBook Pro have better battery life?

While not confirmed, Apple typically improves power efficiency with each chip generation, so better battery life is likely.

Should I wait for M5 Pro or buy M5 now?

If you need a laptop now, buy the M5. If you need maximum performance and can wait until 2026, hold out for M5 Pro or Max.

Does the M5 MacBook Pro support external displays?

Yes, based on Apple's recent MacBook Pro models, the M5 version should support multiple external displays.

What are NextSense Smartbuds?

NextSense Smartbuds are wireless earbuds with integrated in-ear EEG sensors that track brainwaves, detect sleep stages, and deliver adaptive audio to improve sleep quality.

How do Smartbuds improve sleep?

Smartbuds monitor brain activity during sleep and deliver subtle audio cues, such as pink noise, synchronized to brainwaves to encourage deeper, more restorative sleep.

Are NextSense Smartbuds a medical device?

No. Smartbuds are a consumer wellness device and are not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment of sleep or neurological disorders.

When will NextSense Smartbuds be available?

Smartbuds are available for pre-order at $399, with shipments beginning in February 2026.

Seven Kenyan Women-Led Startups Secure Ksh 9 Million in Tech Grants

Last updated: September 30, 2026 11:03 am

Esthy Speaks

Startups

Seven women-led technology startups in Kenya have received a total of Ksh 9 million (approximately $70,000) in equity-free grants through the Women in Tech Kenya Accelerator programme.

The funding was provided by the Standard Chartered Foundation in partnership with Village Capital and iBizAfrica at Strathmore University. Each of the seven startups will receive about Ksh 1.29 million to support product development, business growth and expansion.

The awards were announced at the Cohort 9 Award Ceremony and Graduation in Nairobi, where 15 women founders completed the 12-week accelerator programme.

The Winning Startups

The recipients operate across healthcare, agriculture, education, aquaculture, accessibility and circular economy models:

Premac Care connects families with trained healthcare professionals for maternal and newborn care, post-hospitalisation recovery and elderly care.
ChipuRobo provides hands-on artificial intelligence and robotics education using locally fabricated kits.
FishBox Africa develops AI-powered farm management software and smart feeders for fish farmers.
Uptyke Consulting offers AI-powered digital learning tools for students with disabilities, incorporating sign language and audio content.
Nakuru Tubers connects smallholder farmers to verified agricultural inputs through digital tools and last-mile distribution.
Trident Analytics builds Internet of Things and AI tools for small-scale aquaculture farmers.
Seta Farm uses organic waste to produce mushrooms while creating income opportunities for women and young people.

Standard Chartered Kenya Chief Executive Birju Sanghrajka said the initiative is designed to give women entrepreneurs more than capital, including skills, networks and ongoing business support. The Women in Tech Kenya Accelerator is now in its ninth cohort and forms part of broader efforts to address the persistent funding gap faced by female founders in East Africa’s largest startup market.

The grants are equity-free, allowing the startups to deploy the capital without diluting ownership.