Airtel Africa Plc is reportedly considering a significant reduction in the amount of capital to be raised through the initial public offering (IPO) of its mobile money business, Airtel Money. The company, controlled by billionaire Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Enterprises Ltd., is now aiming to raise at least $800 million in London, according to sources familiar with the matter. This figure is notably lower than the $1.5 billion to $2 billion previously targeted, as reported in April.
The listing process for Airtel Money, which operates as a money transfer and payments company, could commence as early as next week. This potential trimming of the IPO size comes after earlier reports indicated London as the primary listing location for the unit, with expectations for trading to begin this year. The financial services unit was previously valued at more than $10 billion.
The decision to pursue an IPO for Airtel Money was announced earlier this year, with a delay in the sale to the second half of 2026. This move was intended to unlock value in the mobile money business. However, the revised fundraising target suggests a recalibration of expectations for the upcoming market debut.
