On behalf of ARM, George Wilson, CEO of ARM Africa Trade Finance Fund, participated in a panel discussion at the Global Trade Review (GTR) West Africa 2026 in Lagos, focused on “Trade finance assets, African financial institutions, and domestic capital: Funding the next phase of Africa’s development.”
The session brought together industry leaders to examine how Africa can better mobilise its own capital to drive sustainable, trade-led growth. As liquidity constraints continue to shape global markets, the role of trade finance as an alternative asset class is becoming increasingly critical—not only in unlocking institutional capital, but in supporting real sector growth across the continent.
George highlighted the importance of deepening local capital pools, strengthening collaboration between financial institutions, and deploying innovative fund structures that can effectively channel capital into trade. He also emphasised the opportunity to leverage regulatory frameworks, such as pension fund reforms, to unlock domestic liquidity at scale.
At ARM, this work is central to our broader commitment to developing investment solutions that bridge capital gaps, support businesses, and drive long-term economic growth. Through platforms such as the ARM Africa Trade Finance Fund, we continue to play an active role in structuring and deploying capital into sectors that are critical to Africa’s development.
As conversations evolve into action, the focus remains clear: building resilient financial ecosystems, mobilising domestic and international capital, and enabling trade as a key engine for growth across Africa.
