Money Market Funds — Explained
Money market funds often earn more than bank savings. Most MMFs allow withdrawals subject to provider cut-off times. Serrari tracks Kenyan MMFs so you can compare returns, fees, and minimums.
Serrari tracks and compares funds — we do not manage money or hold deposits. To invest, open an account directly with a fund manager. See the financial products marketplace
Is My Money Safe?
Money market funds are typically lower-risk than shares, but not risk-free.
What funds invest in
MMFs mainly invest in Treasury bills, bonds, and bank deposits.
CMA-regulated funds
MMFs are regulated by the CMA. Always confirm regulation before investing.
Withdraw typically in 24-48 hours
Request a withdrawal and most payouts complete within 24–48 hours.
Interest compounds over time
Interest is typically calculated daily and added to your balance.
How to Start
Here's how to start.
Pick a fund
Use the comparison below to choose a fund based on returns, minimum investment, and fees.
Open an account
Most accounts can be opened online using your ID and phone number.
Deposit and start accruing returns
Send money via M-Pesa or bank transfer. Interest typically begins accruing once funds are processed by the fund manager. Add more whenever you can — even KES 100 at a time.
Returns Calculator
Enter any amount to see how your money could grow. Estimates include fees and tax. Returns vary.
How much will I earn?
MMF vs Bank Savings
See the difference on KES 100,000 over one year:
Money Market Fund
Bank Savings
Top Funds
Ranked by the Serrari MMF Leaders Index — the top 5 funds by 3-month average yield.
Current MMF Yields
Bars: funds. Dashed line: market average.
Annual returns before fees and tax · Ranked highest to lowest · Updated daily by Serrari
Answers for Beginners
From KES 100. Funds like Etica and Safaricom's Mali MMF accept deposits from KES 100. Most other funds start at KES 1,000. You can add more at any time, in any amount.
At ~9.4% annual return:
KES 10,000 ≈ KES 78/month
KES 100,000 ≈ KES 780/month
Use calculator above for projections.
CMA-regulated MMFs invest in government securities and bank deposits, which makes them lower risk than stocks or unregulated schemes. However, returns are not guaranteed and can fluctuate with market conditions. The key is to always confirm your fund is regulated by the CMA — avoid any scheme that isn't. Serrari only tracks CMA-regulated funds.
Request a withdrawal through the fund's app or website. Withdrawals usually complete within 24–48 hours to your M-Pesa or bank account.
SACCOs
- Higher returns (12–14%)
- Money locked for months or years
MMFs
- Lower returns (8–11%)
- Withdraw typically in 24–48 hours
- CMA regulated
Two deductions apply:
- Management fee (1–2.5% annually)
- 15% withholding tax on interest
Both are already included in the net yields shown.
Yes. Most funds including Safaricom's Mali MMF, Cytonn, Britam, and Old Mutual accept M-Pesa deposits directly. Some have USSD codes, others use their app. It's designed for mobile-first investors.