What kind of exit should make a headline? 50x, 100x or 2,000x? Don’t rack your brain too much because my editor swears you should never ask the reader too many questions.
Since we’re breaking all my editor’s rules, I’ll hit you with numbers. Consider this: a significant investment in a tech company that yielded a massive return. If your math is wonky, that’s a remarkable return. Some early investors in big tech companies saw returns of thousands of times their initial investment. Now, go ahead and think about missed opportunities in the past. We’ll wait.
While those numbers make certain investment hubs look like a sure thing, some successful exits have occurred in Africa—albeit with more secrecy.
Enter Oui Capital. This early-stage African VC made a modest bet on a fintech startup that later became a unicorn in the industry.
Impressed by the founder’s expertise in banking technology and payment infrastructure, Oui Capital saw potential in the startup’s growth. Convinced of the startup’s value, the VC firm invested in their engineering capabilities to solve challenges in the market.
Fast-forward a few years: the fintech startup reached unicorn status and raised a substantial amount in a funding round. Oui Capital’s strategic decision to sell shares in a secondary transaction paid off handsomely, providing them with a remarkable return on their initial investment.
This success story demonstrates the importance of supporting VCs with a deep understanding of the African market. While some investors celebrate flashy exits, African players like Oui Capital prove that local knowledge and conviction can lead to significant returns.
So, the next time you’re contemplating investment returns, remember that game-changing exits are possible with the right investments and expertise. Now, refocus, and let this story inspire you to seek opportunities with local insights.
If you’ve experienced impressive investment returns, congratulations. If not, consider learning from success stories like this one.