SEC Raises Minimum Capital Requirement For Market Operators – Big Changes Ahead

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has raised the minimum capital requirements for all categories of capital market operators in Nigeria. According to a statement issued on Friday, the capital base for tier 2 issuing houses with underwriting has been increased to ₦7 billion from ₦200 million, while trustees are now required to maintain ₦2 billion, up from ₦300 million.

The SEC explained that the revision aims to strengthen market resilience and enhance investor protection. Operators are required to comply with the new thresholds by June 2027. The commission emphasized that the requirements apply across all market operator categories, including core and non-core capital market operators, market infrastructure institutions, capital market consultants, financial technology operators, virtual asset service providers, and commodity market intermediaries.

The regulator further noted that the updated capital thresholds are intended to promote market stability, mitigate systemic risks, and support innovation and the orderly development of emerging segments such as digital assets and commodities markets.