Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – April 23,2026 – The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) is pleased to announce the official listing of Awash Bank S.C. on its main market, marking a historic milestone in the continued development of Ethiopia’s securities market. The listing was commemorated today with a Bell Ringing Ceremony at the Exchange trading floor, marking Awash Bank’s debut as one of the pioneer financial institutions to list on the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.
As the largest private bank in Ethiopia the listing positions Awash Bank among the leading institutions shaping the future of Ethiopia’s financial markets.
The listing follows a successful registration process of 54,066,089 shares with the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) dematerialization of the securities by National Bank of Ethiopia Central Securities Depository. By joining the ESX Main Market, Awash Bank reinforces its commitment to the highest standards of corporate governance, transparency, and shareholder accountability. Investors can now trade Awash Bank shares with the efficiency and security of a modern exchange environment.
“This is a big milestone for the Ethiopian Securities Exchange and for Ethiopia’s capital market ecosystem,” said Tilahun Esmael Kassahun (PhD), CEO of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. He added that “Welcoming Awash Bank to our main market underscores the growing confidence in our Exchange and its potential to drive economic growth. This listing provides investors with an opportunity to participate in a regulated market and demonstrates our commitment to fostering a stable and diverse investment landscape for all Ethiopians.”
Key Highlights of the Listing:
- Symbol of Strength: As the largest private bank, Awash Bank’s listing provides an anchor of confidence by large financial institutions on the Exchange.
- Capital Formation: The listing unlocks new avenues for the bank to optimize its capital structure and raise additional capital and for the public to share the rewards from its consistent growth and profitability.
- National Impact: This move is expected to act as a catalyst, encouraging other Ethiopian companies to list on the Exchange.
Mr. Tsehay Shiferaw, CEO of Awash Bank S.C., remarked: “Listing on the ESX is a proud moment for our more than 20,000 employees and more than 12,000 shareholders. We have always been pioneers, and today we continue that legacy by becoming one of the first pioneer entities to list on the ESX. This listing ensures that our bank remains at the forefront of innovation and value creation for generations to come.”
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange continues to build a robust and efficient trading environment that enables businesses to raise capital and investors to participate in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. We extend our appreciation to the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority, The National Bank of Ethiopia, the Board of Directors and Management of Awash Bank and all stakeholders who contributed to achieving this important milestone.
Listing Summary
- Issuer: Awash Bank S.C.
- Ticker Symbol: AWAB
- Market: ESX Main Market
- Registered Shares with ECMA: 54,066,089
- Listed Shares: 37,896,928
About Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX)
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) is Ethiopia’s first and only organized securities exchange, established to facilitate the trading of various financial instruments, including equities, bonds and money market instruments. The ESX aims to foster a transparent, efficient, and well-regulated securities market that contributes to Ethiopia’s economic growth by mobilizing capital for businesses and providing investment opportunities for individuals and institutions.
About Awash Bank S.C.
Awash Bank S.C. is the first and largest private commercial bank in Ethiopia. Established in 1994, the bank has grown to become a cornerstone of the Ethiopian financial sector, known for its extensive network of over 1000 branches and its leadership in digital banking and financial inclusion.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
- Sisay Elias
- ESX Communication and Public Relations Analyst
- Email: sisay.elias@esx.et
- Phone: +251 901529689
