A recent analysis of stock performance for various Kenyan companies has revealed that Centum Investment Company PLC has underperformed compared to its peers over the period under review.
The study, which tracked the performance of a Ksh1 million investment made on 26th January 2024, highlighted Centum’s relatively low returns and modest dividend payouts.
According to the data compiled by Mihr Thakar for Abojani, Centum’s investment value grew to Ksh1,382,850, with dividend disbursements of Ksh38,647, bringing the total return to Ksh1,421,497. This performance pales in comparison to other companies in the study, such as KenGen and Kenya Power, which delivered significantly higher returns.
KenGen, for instance, saw its investment value soar to Ksh2,101,010, with dividends of Ksh328,283, resulting in a total return of Ksh2,429,293. Similarly, Kenya Power outperformed Centum by a wide margin, with an investment value of Ksh4,510,638 and dividends of Ksh496,454, culminating in a total return of Ksh5,007,092.
Centum’s underperformance has raised concerns among investors and market analysts. The company, which has traditionally been a key player in Kenya’s investment landscape, has struggled to match the robust returns seen in sectors like energy and banking. The modest dividend payout of Ksh38,647 further underscores the challenges Centum faces in delivering value to its shareholders.
Market experts attribute Centum’s lackluster performance to a combination of factors, including a challenging economic environment, increased competition, and potential missteps in its investment strategy. The company’s focus on diverse sectors such as real estate, private equity, and marketable securities may have diluted its ability to capitalize on high-growth opportunities.
As investors digest these findings, the spotlight is now on Centum’s management to reassess its strategy and take decisive steps to enhance shareholder value. With the Kenyan market evolving rapidly, the pressure is mounting for Centum to demonstrate resilience and adaptability in the face of stiff competition.
As the market continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Centum to see if it can turn the tide and reclaim its position as a leading investment powerhouse in Kenya.
Kenya Insights allows guest blogging, if you want to be published on Kenya’s most authoritative and accurate blog, have an expose, news TIPS, story angles, human interest stories, drop us an email on [email protected] or via Telegram