The Secondary Market Advantage: How to Price and Trade Your SACCO Shares in 2026

As we move through the 2026 financial year, SASRA has tightened the rules around institutional capital. Because share capital is the "bedrock" of a SACCO's stability, it cannot be withdrawn like a bank deposit. However, it can be sold.

If you are a member of a high-performing society like Tower, Stima, or Kenya Police, your shares are currently high-demand assets on the secondary market.

1. Valuing Your Shares: Par Value vs. Market Premium

Unlike savings, which are always worth exactly what you deposited, SACCO shares in 2026 carry a "Market Value" that depends on the society's performance.

• Par Value (1:1): This is the face value of the shares (e.g., Ksh 20,000 worth of shares sold for Ksh 20,000). This is the standard for most transactions.

• Market Premium: For SACCOs consistently paying 15%–20% dividends, buyers are often willing to pay a small premium (e.g., paying Ksh 21,000 for Ksh 20,000 worth of shares) to skip membership queues and immediately tap into high annual payouts.

• The "Liquidity Discount": Conversely, if you need cash urgently from a struggling SACCO, you might offer your shares at a 5%–10% discount to attract a quick buyer.

2. The Role of SASRA Regulations in 2026

Per the Sacco Societies Act, SACCOs are prohibited from using their own funds to buy back member shares. This regulation is designed to prevent a "run on the SACCO" that could collapse the institution.

• The Compliance Shift: In 2026, SASRA now requires all share transfers to be documented in a standardized "Transfer Registry," making platforms like Saccoshares even more vital for maintaining transparent, legal records of these private transactions.

3. Selling SACCO Shares on Saccoshares

Since Share Capital is non-refundable by the SACCO, the Saccoshares marketplace provides the essential exit route for members needing liquidity. The process is designed to be secure, transparent, and compliant with all SACCO by-laws.

The Listing & Sale Process:

1. Verification: The seller lists their shares on Saccoshares, providing a recent statement to verify the share balance. This prevents "phantom listings" and builds trust with potential buyers.

2. Negotiation: A buyer expresses interest. On Saccoshares, shares are often sold at par value (1:1) or a slight premium if the SACCO has a high dividend track record (e.g., Tower or Stima).

3. Documentation: Both parties sign a Share Transfer Form (provided by the specific SACCO). These forms are legally binding and initiate the change of ownership in the SACCO’s internal registry.

4. Board Approval: The completed form is submitted to the SACCO board. Per 2026 bylaws, most boards must approve transfers within 30 days if the buyer is a registered member or qualifies for membership.

5. Payment: Saccoshares facilitates the secure exchange, ensuring the seller receives funds once the SACCO confirms the transfer in their registry. This "Escrow-style" approach protects both parties from fraud.