By zainab.joaque@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE- The Bank of Sierra Leone has announced its upcoming Treasury Bill and Bond auction set for September 5-6, 2024. The central bank will offer a total of SLe 491,461,450 in securities, including 91-Day, 182-Day, and 364-Day Treasury Bills, as well as 2-Year and 3-Year Bonds.
The auction will feature:
- SLe 21,093,750 in 91-Day Treasury Bills
- SLe 2,943,750 in 182-Day Treasury Bills
- SLe 380,411,150 in 364-Day Treasury Bills
- SLe 25,000,000 in 2-Year Bonds
- SLe 62,012,800 in 3-Year Bonds
The substantial allocation for 364-Day Treasury Bills, totalling SLe 380,411,150, indicates a strong investor interest in long-term securities. Conversely, the smaller offerings of 91-Day and 182-Day T-Bills reflect the government’s approach to address diverse investor needs.
In the August 29 auction, the yields were notable: 91-Day T-Bills returned 21.55%, 182-Day T-Bills offered 29.22%, and 364-Day T-Bills yielded 41.29%. The slight decrease in the yield for 91-Day T-Bills to 21.55% suggests a competitive market as investors assess short-term versus long-term returns. The stable 29.22% yield for the 182-Day T-Bills and the attractive 41.29% yield for the 364-Day T-Bills highlight ongoing investor interest in longer-term investments.
As the auction date approaches, a strong turnout is anticipated, with investors eager to support government initiatives while securing potentially lucrative returns. This auction represents more than a routine financial operation; it embodies investor confidence in Sierra Leone’s economic resilience and growth potential. ZIJ/2/9/2024