By Amoako Kwame
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has directed all market operators, fintech firms, and individuals operating online investment and trading platforms in Ghana to complete their registration and licensing processes by August 31, 2026.
The directive forms part of the Commission’s efforts to strengthen investor protection, enhance regulatory oversight, and curb the activities of unlicensed digital investment platforms.
In a notice issued on June 23, 2026, the SEC stated that all investor-facing investment technology platforms, online trading applications, and digital intermediary platforms involved in regulated securities activities must secure the appropriate registration and licensing approval before continuing operations.
According to the regulator, the directive responds to the growing number of unregistered online investment and trading applications offering access to securities markets in Ghana and abroad.
“The move is aimed at addressing the risks associated with fraudulent and unregulated digital investment schemes while safeguarding the integrity of the securities market,” the SEC said.
Under the directive, licensed market operators that own or manage investment technology platforms must obtain SEC approval for each platform through which licensed activities are conducted. Fintech service providers and individuals operating online investment and trading platforms that facilitate SEC-regulated activities are also required to secure the necessary licences and registrations.
Additionally, digital platforms that serve as intermediaries within the securities market ecosystem must be registered and licensed by the Commission before they can continue operating.
To meet the August 31 deadline, affected entities must complete a registration process that includes submitting an entry form, demonstrating their platform to the SEC, receiving regulatory guidance, paying the required fees, and obtaining a registration or licensing certificate.
The Commission warned that any person or entity operating an online investment or trading platform without SEC approval, registration, or licensing must immediately cease operations.
It also urged the public to verify the legitimacy of investment products and platforms promoted through traditional and digital media using the SEC’s official communication channels.
The regulator cautioned that failure to comply could attract sanctions under Section 209(4) of the Securities Industry Act, 2016 (Act 929), as amended, as well as other applicable legal provisions.
The SEC noted that the directive takes immediate effect and will remain in force until it is amended, revised, varied or revoked.
