The landscape for retail investors in Ethiopia reached a historic milestone with the transition of Ethio Telecom (ET) into a share company. As the market anticipates the registration of EthioTelecom shares on the secondary market of Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), thousands of new shareholders are asking the same questions: What is my share worth today? When will I see a dividend? And how can I buy more?
This guide breaks down the essential facts from the official prospectus and the latest 2026 financial updates.
Also read: How to Trade On Ethiopian Securities Exchange Via Neway Mobile Application
1. The Ethio Telecom Prospectus: Understanding Your Ownership
When the 10% public offering was launched, the official prospectus established the ground rules for ownership. If you participated in the IPO, you purchased ordinary shares at a par value of 300 ETB per share.
One critical detail often overlooked is the lock-in period. According to the prospectus, these shares cannot be traded or transferred until the company is formally listed on the ESX. This ensures market stability during the transition from a state-led monopoly to a publicly traded entity.
2. Share Price and “Market Value” in 2026
Currently, there is no “live” ticker symbol for Ethio Telecom on a secondary market. This means the daily share price remains at its 300 ETB issuance level.
However, the “intrinsic value” of the company has grown. In her latest 2026 briefing, CEO Frehiwot Tamiru highlighted a 37% revenue surge, with net profits for the first half of the fiscal year reaching 42.36 billion ETB. Once the ESX goes live, this strong financial performance is expected to drive the opening market price upward.
3. Dividends: When Do Shareholders Get Paid?
Ethio Telecom has committed to a massive profit-sharing model. The company’s “Next Horizon” strategy outlines a total dividend payout plan of 111.3 billion ETB over three years.
- For 2025/26: The target payout to shareholders is 35.4 billion ETB.
- Payment Method: Dividends will likely be processed through the same digital infrastructure used for the IPO—telebirr.
- Verification: Ensure your Fayda (National ID) is linked to your account, as this is now the mandatory verification standard for all financial assets in Ethiopia.
4. How to Buy Ethio Telecom Shares (Current Process)
While the initial 100-million-share offering for domestic citizens has concluded its first phase, the digital portal remains the gateway for future rounds.
The telebirr Step-by-Step:
- KYC Update: Open your telebirr SuperApp and ensure your “Know Your Customer” (KYC) level is upgraded using a valid ID.
- Locate the Share Portal: Tap the “Ethio Telecom Share” icon.
- Review Allotment: For those awaiting a second round, keep a minimum balance for the entry tier—usually 33 shares (9,900 ETB).
- Transaction Costs: Budget for a 1.5% service fee and 15% VAT on top of the share price.
5. Looking Ahead: The 45% Stake and the Diaspora
The most significant news for 2026 is the government’s plan to offer an additional 45% stake in the company. Unlike the initial 10% reserved for domestic citizens, this larger move is expected to open doors for the Ethiopian Diaspora and international institutional investors, potentially bringing massive foreign currency inflows and professionalizing the company’s governance even further.