Short answers to the questions that come up most. Each one links to the guide that covers it properly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a CDS account to buy shares in Kenya?
Yes, for shares held in your own name. A licensed stockbroker opens it for you at CDSC when you open a trading account. Pooled services held through an omnibus account are the exception, and they work differently. See how to open a CDS account.
How much money do I need to start investing on the NSE?
Legally, the price of one share — single-share trading started in August 2025. In practice, minimum commissions mean an order of around KES 5,000–10,000 is where charges stop eating the investment. See how much you need to start.
What does it cost to buy and sell shares?
Brokerage commission of roughly 1%–1.5%, 16% VAT on that commission, 0.29% in statutory levies and a small stamp duty — on the way in and again on the way out. See NSE trading costs explained.
When do I get my money after selling shares?
Trades settle three business days after the sale (T+3), and your broker then pays out on its own schedule. See how to sell shares on the NSE.
Do I pay tax on shares in Kenya?
Dividends carry 5% withholding tax for residents, deducted before you are paid. Gains on shares listed on the NSE are exempt from capital gains tax. See dividends in Kenya.
Is Ipahco a stockbroker?
No. Ipahco does not hold your money, open your CDS account or place your orders. Those are done by a stockbroker licensed by the Capital Markets Authority; Ipahco provides guides and tools.
Does Ipahco tell me which shares to buy?
No. The app shows data, screens companies and flags when a company meets a published set of technical conditions. None of it is personal investment advice, and no outcome is promised.
Is Ipahco free?
The guides on this site are free, and so is a basic app account. Ipahco Pro is a paid plan that adds an unlimited watchlist, full signal history, email alerts and the ebook library.
How do I know a broker or platform is legitimate?
Check it against the Capital Markets Authority’s register of licensees before you send money. Guaranteed returns, pressure to decide today and payments to a personal M-Pesa number are the three clearest warning signs. See how to choose a stockbroker.
I think I have old shares or unclaimed dividends. How do I check?
Ask CDSC which broker holds your CDS account, and search the unclaimed assets register at UFAA — there is no deadline for claiming. See unclaimed dividends in Kenya.
See this on the NSE, not in theory
Ipahco screens every company listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, tracks dividends and shows you which licensed brokers will open an account for you.
Education, not investment advice. If a question here matters to a decision you are about to make, read the full guide and check the figures with your own broker.