Joel Macharia
Joel Macharia is a Kenyan entrepreneur and financial innovator celebrated for his contributions to inclusive finance and investment accessibility in Africa. He is the founder and CEO of Abacus, an online platform that allows individuals to learn about, access, and invest in various financial markets. Through Abacus, Joel has democratized investment opportunities, enabling more people—especially the youth—to participate in the Nairobi Securities Exchange and other asset classes without the traditional barriers of high entry costs or lack of financial literacy.
His professional journey reflects a strong commitment to financial education, having previously worked in banking, media, and investment sectors. Joel has leveraged technology to bridge the gap between financial markets and everyday citizens, designing user-friendly tools and educational resources that empower individuals to make informed financial decisions.
His innovative approach and vision for an inclusive financial ecosystem earned him recognition on the prestigious Forbes “30 Under 30” list, where he was celebrated as one of Africa’s leading young entrepreneurs transforming the continent’s economic landscape. Joel’s work has had a lasting impact by not only expanding access to investment opportunities but also inspiring a new generation to take charge of their financial futures through knowledge, technology, and smart investing.