By Tokiso TKay Nthebe
We often hear that “the best time to invest was yesterday, and the next best time is today.” But if you’re just starting, investing can feel confusing and intimidating. Questions like Where do I begin? How do I choose the right fund? and What are the risks? can leave you feeling stuck.
If you’re in Lesotho and ready to start your investment journey, here’s a practical guide to get you going—with a spotlight on STANLIB Lesotho, one of the licensed asset managers in the country.
What Is an Asset Manager?
An asset manager is a licensed financial expert who invests your money for you. They help you manage risk, choose the right investments, and aim to grow your money over time. In Lesotho, there are currently five asset management companies licensed by the Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL)—and STANLIB Lesotho is one of them.
What Are Unit Trusts?
Unit trusts (also called collective investment schemes) pool money from different investors into a fund. A professional manager then invests that money in various assets like cash, bonds, or shares. Each investor owns a “unit” or portion of that fund, making it an easy, low-cost way to access the investment market.
Types of Unit Trusts to Consider
Your investment choice should match your goals, risk appetite, and time horizon. Here’s a quick guide:
- Money Market Fund: Ideal for short-term goals (12–24 months), like saving for a house deposit. Offers stability with lower risk.
- Fixed Income Fund: Suitable for medium-term goals with moderate risk.
- Equity Fund: Best for long-term goals (5+ years), like retirement, with higher growth potential—but more risk.
Always seek professional financial advice to align your choices with your life goals.
Why Unit Trusts Are a Smart Start
Affordable: Start investing with as little as LSL 5,000 once-off, or from LSL 1,000/month via debit order.
Flexible: Choose a fund that fits your needs—short or long term.
Safe & Regulated: Your money is managed by licensed professionals and monitored by the CBL.
Accessible: Opening an account is easy. You’ll need your ID, proof of income, and proof of residence.
Why Choose STANLIB Lesotho?
STANLIB Lesotho is a trusted and experienced player in the investment space, established in 2001 and backed by STANLIB South Africa, one of Africa’s leading asset managers. They serve individuals, SMEs, corporate clients, associations, and retirement funds—making investing possible for all Basotho.
With access to all 10 districts through Standard Lesotho Bank branches, STANLIB Lesotho brings investment services closer to you.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Visit STANLIB Lesotho at MGC Office Park, Ground Floor, Maseru, or explore their offerings online at:
https://stanlib.com/lesotho
Your money can work just as hard as you do. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your wealth grow—one unit at a time.
Stay trailblazing
STANLIB foreva ena
Tk I love this. Simple and Clear
why wouldn’t I invest
Thank you so much. This platform’s goal is to simplify complex topics into easy, practical and clear steps to take. I do hope that more trailblazers start investing and yes, STANLIB forever indeed. Here’s to our money doing more!