Finance Magnates met with Paul Margarites, Exness regional commercial director for Sub-Saharan Africa, during a visit to the firm’s office opening in Cape Town. The interview, led by Andrea Badiola Mateos, Co-CEO at Finance Magnates, explored Exness’ plans in Africa, the local trading environment, and the company's growth strategy across the region.
A new chapter for Exness in Cape Town
Exness has held a local license in South Africa since 2020. What started as a small office has now grown into a full regional hub.
Backed by two FSCA licences, Paul Margarites explains that Exness’ move into a larger Cape Town office reflects its long-term commitment to South Africa. The strengthened regulatory footing, combined with an expanded physical presence, allows the company to deepen its engagement with traders across the country and the wider region. The Cape Town office now has around 50 staff members, with additional hires expected.
“We want to invest in the continent,” Margarites said, adding that, “South Africa offers strong talent and a stable base for growth.”
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Why South Africa stands out
Margarites shared several reasons why South Africa has become one of the strongest spots for retail trading:
Strong regulation
Reliable local infrastructure
High mobile use and quick digital adoption.
A young, tech-driven population.
He explained that South Africa is now viewed as a rising trading hub, joining more established ones such as London and Singapore. The country’s stable rules and apparent oversight also place it ahead of many other developing markets.
Local needs, local insight
One of the key points Margarites emphasised is the need to understand each African country on its own terms. While the continent is large and varied, specific trends cross borders, especially in digital behaviour and mobile use.
For example, South Africans often trade more in local indices than in those of nearby countries. These minor differences shape how brokers should build their product line and service models.
This is why Exness invests in local teams, which help relay market needs back to the global group.
Younger traders driving growth
Another strong trend in the region is the rise of younger traders. Margarites noted that many new users now search for and learn about products on Instagram and other social media platforms rather than on websites or via Google.
This change in habits has shaped how brokers approach education, support, and engagement.
Must Read: How is Exness empowering South Africa’s young digital affiliate force?
Africa: A Region with many personalities
Margarites discussed Africa as a whole, noting that the continent's diverse languages, cultures, and needs contribute to its complexity. However, he also pointed out that specific patterns and user interests are often consistent across many countries. He likened this situation to Europe, where, despite differences between countries, shared habits still bind them.
Growth plans for Sub-Saharan Africa
Exness aims to continue expanding in a stable and safe manner. The company currently holds licenses in Kenya and South Africa, which are considered two of the most advanced markets from a regulatory perspective.
Margarites described Africa as a long-term commitment for Exness, with continued focus on regulation, compliance, and sustainable growth.
Standing out in a growing, competitive space
As more global brokers enter South Africa, competition is intensifying. Margarites explained how Exness sets itself apart:
Better-than-market conditions
A transparent model
Local support from staff in the market.
He believes this blend of a global product and a local approach gives Exness a strong edge.
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Looking ahead
The opening of the new Cape Town office marks an essential step in Exness' journey in Africa. The brand plans to keep investing in people, local knowledge, and long-term growth across sub-Saharan markets.
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