South Africa: Dubai-based fintech Optasia lists on the JSE

Development Partners International (DPI), a private equity firm investing across Africa, has revealed that its portfolio company Optasia has successfully gone public on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

The debut generated significant interest from a diverse mix of investors. The IPO brought in roughly R6.3 billion (around $375 million), with shares opening at R19.00, giving Optasia an estimated valuation of R24.5 billion (approximately $1.4 billion).

Under DPI’s backing, Optasia has transformed from a mobile lending provider serving specific regions to a global, AI-powered fintech operating in 38 markets worldwide.

Commenting on the milestone, James Griffiths, Partner at DPI, said: “We’re delighted to have supported Optasia on its journey to this major achievement. The company’s leadership has built a forward-thinking, tech-enabled fintech platform, and this IPO marks a significant step in its evolution. Optasia’s use of AI to broaden financial access for underserved communities is a powerful example of innovation delivering real impact.”