FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Standard Investment Bank (SIB) breaks ground today for its most iconic building which will be called SIB International Centre. This new development in Westlands, Nairobi once completed, will serve as its new headquarters. This investment reflects the firm’s ongoing influence in reshaping Kenya’s banking and investment industry.
“We are not simply breaking ground for a new building — we are laying the cornerstone for the next generation of excellence in Kenyan and African investment banking. As these walls rise, and the apex of this building is achieved, so too must our ambition — to build not just a head office, but a headway for the next generation of African financiers, innovators, and visionaries.” -James Wangunyu, Founder & Managing Director, Standard Investment Bank
Since its inception in 1995, SIB has been at the forefront of innovation, challenging traditional models and redefining how Kenyans invest, save, and build wealth. What began as a small brokerage firm of five employees has evolved into one of Kenya’s most influential indigenous investment houses—one that has steadily introduced new financial products, broadened access to capital markets, and inspired confidence among both local and international investors.
SIB’s rise mirrors the transformation of Kenya’s financial sector from a market dominated by conventional banking to one increasingly shaped by investment firms offering diversified pathways to financial growth. SIB has played a central role in this shift.
The firm introduced the Mansa-X Special Fund, which is now the largest special collective investment scheme in Kenya managing over KES. 110Bn in assets, and setting a new standard for alternative investment solutions.
Through SIB Najah, it pioneered faith-based investment solutions for Muslim investors seeking Shariah-compliant products. Its expansion into global markets opened doors for ordinary Kenyans to access international investment opportunities previously reserved for high-net-worth individuals.
These innovations have not only diversified Kenya’s financial ecosystem but also broadened financial inclusion by enabling more people to participate in wealth creation.
The proposed 32-floor SIB International Centre will serve as a hub for SIB’s growing operations, housing state-of-the-art trading desks, advisory teams, and wealth management experts. The investment speaks to the bank’s confidence in Kenya’s economic outlook and its intention to deepen its leadership in the sector.
Earlier this year, SIB made another strategic move by opening its first regional office in Mombasa. This expansion aligns with its mission to bring sophisticated financial services closer to underserved markets, including diaspora-linked investors and emerging high-growth regions.
The SIB brand has endured and grown because of its willingness to take bold steps in an industry that demands resilience, foresight, and adaptability. It has expanded during market volatility, innovated during periods of uncertainty, and set new benchmarks for investment performance and client experience.
Its 30-year journey reflects a pursuit of excellence powered by a belief that the financial future of Kenyans can be bigger, more inclusive, and more globally connected. With every milestone—from pioneering digital advisory solutions to structuring major corporate deals—SIB has continued to challenge outdated norms and push the industry forward.
Watch the groundbreaking ceremony here.
About SIB:
Standard Investment Bank (SIB) is a leading indigenous financial institution providing investment, banking, and wealth management services. Since 1995, SIB has delivered innovative solutions such as the Mansa-X Special Fund and faith-based investments through SIB Najah, promoting financial inclusion, client-focused growth, and sustainable development across Kenya.
For media inquiries:
Catherine Njeri, PR Consultant
Mobile: +254 720 594 101
Email: pr.kenya@havas.com
