Money Talks with CFA Society Nigeria

Market uncertainty can trigger fear, emotional decisions, and costly investment mistakes. In this episode, we speak with Akinkolade, a finance and accounting professional and CFA Charterholder, on how investors can remain calm and strategic when markets become volatile.Drawing from his experience in financial control and operational finance, Akinkolade explains what uncertainty really means for everyday investors, why panic often drives poor decisions, and how disciplined portfolio management helps investors stay focused on long-term goals. He also shares practical strategies for navigating volatility, maintaining diversification, and making thoughtful decisions during unstable market conditions.

High returns often attract investors, but understanding risk is what truly determines long-term success. In this episode, we speak with Oladimeji Adekola, CFA, on the realities of risk in investing and how individuals can make more informed financial decisions.Drawing from his experience in private market investments, investment advisory, and structured finance, Oladimeji breaks down what risk really means, why it is closely linked to return, and why many investors overlook it when chasing performance. He also explains the different types of investment risks, the role of diversification, and practical ways investors can assess their personal risk tolerance.

Women are often described as disciplined, long-term investors, yet they tend to hold less wealth than men. In this episode, we speak with Maryam Kurfi, CFA, on this contrast and what it means in the Nigerian context.With over 15 years of experience across investment management, financial regulation, and development finance, Maryam shares insights into the investment behaviours commonly associated with women, how these traits influence outcomes, and the structural and social factors that impact wealth accumulation. She also explores the role of financial education, confidence, career breaks, and societal expectations in shaping how women approach money and investing.

Mutual funds are often recommended as a starting point for new investors, but many people are unsure how they actually work. In this episode, we speak with Peace, an investment banking professional with experience across asset management, financial advisory, and corporate finance, on the basics of mutual funds and why they are a popular entry point into investing.Drawing on her experience across multiple sectors and financial institutions, Peace explains what mutual funds are, how pooled investments work, and how professional fund managers invest on behalf of individuals. She also discusses how mutual funds differ from traditional savings, how investors earn returns, and why consistent investing can help individuals work toward long-term goals.

Many people say they want to invest, yet very few take the first step. In this episode, we speak with Nonso, Head of Treasury & FX at a leading financial institution, on why the gap between intention and action remains so wide.With deep experience in liquidity management and capital markets, Nonso shares practical insights into the most common barriers preventing people from investing, from fear of losses and the desire for instant gratification to the misconception that investing is only for the wealthy. He also highlights the role of financial education, accessible entry points for beginners, and the importance of discipline in building long-term investment habits.

A higher income should mean greater financial comfort, but for many people, it simply brings new pressures. In this episode, we speak with Chukwuka Edoziuno, CFA, on lifestyle inflation and why earning more does not always translate into building wealth.Drawing from his experience in corporate finance and capital markets, Chukwuka explains why spending often rises with income, the role of peer pressure and social influence, and how unchecked lifestyle upgrades can quietly undermine long-term financial goals. He also shares practical steps to help professionals manage salary increases wisely and avoid feeling financially stretched despite earning more.

Wealth is often associated with large sums of money, but long-term growth is more about time and consistency than size. In this episode, we speak with Iteoluwakiishi Adesanya, CFA, on how small, regular investments can grow into meaningful wealth over time.With experience in treasury and investment analysis, Iteoluwakiishi explains the power of starting early, the role of consistency, and why reinvesting earnings can significantly accelerate growth. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about wealth building, including the belief that it is only possible for high-income earners, and highlights key risks to keep in mind when investing for the long term.

Money remains one of the most sensitive topics in many homes. In this episode, we speak with Uchenna Iheanacho, CFA, on why families often avoid financial conversations and how breaking that silence can strengthen financial stability and relationships.Drawing from her experience in financial markets, Uchenna discusses the impact of culture and upbringing on money discussions, the risks of avoiding these conversations, and the importance of starting financial education early within the family. She also shares practical guidance on teaching healthy money values and setting respectful financial boundaries, especially within extended family systems.

Earning more money does not automatically lead to financial stability or wealth. In this episode, we speak with Oreofe Olamoyegun, CFA, on why delayed gratification and strong financial habits matter more than income when it comes to building long-term financial security.Oreofe draws from his experience in investment banking and financial advisory to explain what delayed gratification really means in everyday money decisions, why even high-income earners can struggle financially, and how discipline and consistency can help individuals build wealth over time. The conversation also explores the role of budgeting, the power of small daily habits, and how early adopting good financial practices can make a meaningful difference.

Capital markets rely on more than investors and regulators; they also depend on strong legal frameworks and trusted advisors. In this episode, we speak with Simisola Eyisanmi, Partner at Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA) and Chairman of the Capital Market Solicitors Association, on the critical role solicitors play in the investment and securities ecosystem.Simisola explains what it means to be a capital market solicitor, how this role differs from general legal practice, and the responsibilities solicitors carry in transactions such as public offers and initial public offerings. The conversation also highlights why investors should care about the legal processes behind market transactions and how solicitors help protect investor rights and promote market integrity.

When most people think about investing, they think about financial assets. But some of the most valuable returns come from investing in yourself. In this episode, we speak with Sherifdeen Lamid, CFA, a finance professional at Africa Finance Corporation, on what self-investment really means and why it plays a critical role in long-term financial and personal success.Sherifdeen draws on his experience across corporate finance, valuation, and advisory to explain how investing in skills, knowledge, relationships, and professional development can unlock career growth and financial resilience. The conversation also explores how self-investment connects to overall well-being, how to prioritise personal growth alongside saving and investing, and the role of networking, mentorship, and professional associations in building long-term value

Successful investing is about understanding yourself. In this episode, we speak with Oluwatosin Akinnibi, CFA, a deal advisor at a Big Four consulting firm, on how risk appetite and age should shape investment decisions at different stages of life.Oluwatosin explains what risk appetite really means, how both financial capacity and emotional comfort influence investment behaviour, and why these factors often change over time. The conversation breaks down how young professionals, mid-career earners, and those approaching retirement should think differently about risk, asset allocation, and long-term goals. We also discuss practical tools for assessing risk tolerance and common mistakes investors make when chasing returns without understanding their limits.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people learn about money, investing, and personal finance. But how much trust should you really place in AI tools when it comes to financial decisions? In this episode, we speak with Aisha Haruna Kolo, CFA, on the growing role of AI in finance and what it means for everyday users.Drawing on her experience in project finance, corporate strategy, and risk management, Aisha explains how tools like ChatGPT work in a financial context, where they can be genuinely helpful, and where their limitations begin. The conversation explores the reliability of AI-generated financial insights, the risks of relying on generic information, and the importance of distinguishing between financial education and personalised advice.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are no longer optional conversations in finance; they are essential to building stronger institutions and better investment outcomes. In this episode, we speak with Tosin Ojo, CFA, Partner at Sahel Capital Agribusiness Managers, about what DEI truly means in the finance and investment industry and why it matters, particularly in the Nigerian context.Drawing on over 16 years of experience across private equity, asset management, and financial advisory, Tosin shares practical insights into how diverse perspectives improve decision-making and long-term performance. She also discusses the work of the CFA Society Nigeria DEI Committee, including key initiatives aimed at expanding access, representation, and opportunity within the profession.This conversation goes beyond theory, addressing the real barriers faced by women and underrepresented groups in finance and what organisations and professionals can do to create more inclusive and equitable environments.

In this episode, we spoke with Razaq Ahmed, CFA, President of CFA Society Nigeria and CEO/Co-founder of Cowrywise.Razaq discusses how governance and advocacy guide the work of CFA Society Nigeria and shares a clear overview of the Society’s plans, including the establishment of an endowment fund, the continued growth of the CFA Institute Research Challenge, preparations for the West Africa Conference, initiatives focused on career advancement for members, and strengthened policy advocacy efforts.

Economic policies often feel distant and complex, but their impact on the stock market and everyday investments is very real. In this episode, we speak with Charles Chidubem Okonkwo, CFA, to unpack how government decisions shape market movements and investor outcomes.Charles explains how interest rate changes, government spending, taxation, and foreign exchange policies influence stock prices and investment returns. Drawing from real examples in the Nigerian market, he helps retail investors understand what to watch for and how to respond when policy shifts create uncertainty or opportunity.

Economic uncertainty can test even the best financial plans. In this episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Ayewoh, Group Financial Controller at Norrenberger Financial Group, to break down what financial resilience really means and why it matters now more than ever.Elizabeth draws from her experience as a CFA Charterholder and chartered accountant to explain how individuals and families can assess their financial health, build strong emergency funds, and make smart decisions around debt and investing during volatile periods. We also tackle tough questions like whether to pause investing to clear debt and how to stay steady when income or expenses become unpredictable.This conversation is practical, grounded, and designed to help you think clearly about your money even when the economy feels uncertain.

In this episode, Janice Dibia, CFA, breaks down essential financial management skills every entrepreneur needs to scale their business — from budgeting and cash flow to strategic planning and smart decision-making.

In this episode, Olabusayo Onikosi, CFA, shares actionable strategies for young professionals looking to build lasting wealth in Nigeria — from smart investing to career-driven financial planning.

In this episode, our guest Faithful T. Bob-Manuel, CFA explores key financial red flags from misleading offers to unsustainable debt, and shares practical tips on how to spot and avoid them.