Agency banking model

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The agency banking model [1] is a function of certain commercial banks in Kenya. The activity is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya, which allows banks to contract third-party retail networks as a Banking agent. Upon successful application, vetting, and approval,[ citation needed ] these agents are authorized to offer selected products and services on behalf of the bank.

Contents

Definition

A banking agent in Kenya is a commercial entity that has been contracted by a commercial bank and approved by the Central Bank of Kenya to provide specific services on behalf of the bank. This entity is equipped with the skills necessary to provide basic banking services according to standards set by the Bank.

This allows the banking agent entity to access financial products and services at a location nearest to the customer, thus breaking down certain barriers to financial inclusion such as cost and accessibility.

Approved financial activities

Activities that a banking agent can engage in are determined by the contracting bank after assessment of the applying entity. Some of these include:[ citation needed ]

Agency banking transactions are denominated in Kenyan shillings.

Prohibited activities

When an agency continues to perform prohibited activities, their contract may be terminated.

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References

  1. "'The greed that sometimes drives capitalism must be tamed' – James Mwangi". theafricareport.com. 2020-10-29. Retrieved 2020-11-17.