Neil McDonald
Partner
London
We are proud to have acted as BVI counsel to Channel VAS Investments Limited (trading as Optasia) in relation to its initial public offering (IPO) and listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).
The Optasia shares were priced at ZAR19.00, at the top of the price range, raising gross proceeds of approximately ZAR6.5 billion (assuming the exercise of the overallotment option) and valuing Optasia at approximately ZAR23.5 billion.
This listing is the largest IPO in Africa in 2025, and it is the largest Fintech IPO in the wider EMEA region since 2021.
Working alongside Webber Wentzel and Milbank, our team provided comprehensive advice on all BVI law aspects of the transaction, including structuring, corporate governance and regulatory compliance, to ensure its seamless execution.
Optasia is a leading AI-driven Fintech platform delivering microfinance and airtime credit solutions across emerging markets. Its listing on the JSE under ticker OPA represents a significant milestone in expanding financial inclusion through technology
Our London office Head of Corporate and M&A, Neil McDonald commented:
'We are proud to have supported Optasia in achieving this landmark IPO. Our involvement underscores our extensive expertise in guiding clients through the BVI law aspects of complex, multi-jurisdictional IPO's and other equity capital markets transactions.'
