Investing in Kenya has become easier and more accessible with digital solutions. Old Mutual’s Mobile Platform (i-INVEST) allows Kenyans to invest in Unit Trust Funds from their mobile phones, giving investors the flexibility to grow their savings without visiting a branch. This guide explains how the platform works, the types of funds available, key benefits, and important considerations for investors.
What Is the Old Mutual Mobile Platform (i-INVEST)?
The Old Mutual Mobile Platform, also called i-INVEST, is a digital investment solution that enables customers to access Old Mutual Unit Trust Funds over mobile phones or messaging apps. Through the platform, you can:
- Register and create an investment account
- Invest in Unit Trust Funds
- Switch between funds
- Withdraw your investment
- Monitor your portfolio
The platform is designed for convenience and is accessible via:
- USSD: Dial *480# using a Safaricom number
- Facebook Messenger: Message Old Mutual Group on m.me/OldMutualGroupKe
- WhatsApp: Message +254 110945522
Who Can Use i-INVEST?
The platform is suitable for anyone who:
- Wants to invest in Old Mutual Unit Trust Funds digitally
- Prefers low-touch, mobile access to investments
- Wants to monitor and manage investments remotely
Before investing, you need to provide identification documents for Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, such as a National ID, Passport, or proof of address.
How to Register and Start Investing
- Initial Registration
- Dial *480# or send a message on Messenger or WhatsApp.
- Enter your personal details: ID/Passport, postal and physical address, email, occupation, and accept terms and conditions.
- Receive a one-time PIN via SMS.
- PIN Setup
- Use the PIN to access the platform and change it to a personal 4-digit PIN.
- Wait for confirmation via SMS that your account is activated.
- Account Activation
- Once activated, you can invest, withdraw, and switch between funds using your registered mobile number.
- If account activation fails, submit a copy of your ID or Passport to Old Mutual.
Old Mutual Unit Trust Funds Available on i-INVEST
Old Mutual offers four main types of Unit Trusts, each with different investment objectives and risk profiles:
| Fund | Objective | Risk Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Money Market Fund | Generate returns through fixed deposits and near-cash instruments | Low | Low-risk investors and those seeking capital preservation |
| Equity Fund | Long-term capital growth via diversified stocks | Medium to High | Investors seeking growth and can tolerate market fluctuations |
| Balanced Fund | Combine income from money market with capital growth from equities | Medium | Investors seeking moderate risk and balanced returns |
| Bond Fund | Steady income from government and corporate bonds | Low to Medium | Investors seeking regular income with moderate risk |
Key Benefits of Investing via i-INVEST
- Convenience: Invest, switch funds, and withdraw from your mobile phone.
- Automatic Investment: New deposits are automatically allocated to the Money Market Fund for capital preservation.
- Liquidity: Withdrawals are processed quickly—same-day for the Money Market Fund and next working day for other funds.
- Flexible Minimums: Investments start at KES 480.
- Transparent Reporting: Monthly updates via SMS or email on account balances and interest earned.
Fees and Charges
- Initial Fees: Old Mutual has currently waived the initial fees on new investments. Previously, fees could reach up to 10% of new deposits, plus VAT.
- Ongoing Management Fees:
- Money Market Fund: 1% per year (VAT exclusive)
- Balanced Fund: 3.37% per year
- Bond Fund: 3% per year
- Equity Fund: 3.37% per year
- Withdrawal Fees: One free withdrawal per month; subsequent MPESA withdrawals cost KES 22.40 each.
Important Considerations
- Always use your registered mobile number for payments. Transactions from unregistered numbers will be refunded.
- Keep your PIN secure to prevent unauthorized access.
- Old Mutual may request additional documentation if deposits reach KES 250,000 or as required by KYC regulations.
- The platform may experience downtime due to network issues, device malfunctions, or force majeure. Old Mutual is not liable for losses in such events unless caused by gross negligence.
Managing Your Investments
With i-INVEST, your money is professionally managed and distributed according to the fund type:
- Money Market Fund: Monthly reinvestment of interest
- Equity Fund: Semi-annual distribution
- Balanced and Bond Funds: Quarterly distribution
You can also switch between funds with a minimum of KES 480, subject to limits for certain fund types.
Investing through Old Mutual’s i-INVEST platform makes it easier for Kenyans to grow their savings digitally while maintaining control over their investments. By starting with small amounts, you can preserve capital, earn returns, and access your money whenever needed—all from your mobile phone.
For more information or to register, dial *480#, message Old Mutual on WhatsApp (+254 110945522), or Facebook Messenger (m.me/OldMutualGroupKe).
