Frontier Market Bonds & Rates Trader – Africa & CIS (Local Currency)

Mamoru; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A diversified global investment firm based in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Proprietary Trader. This role focuses on trading local currency bonds and rates in frontier markets across Africa and the CIS regions. Candidates should possess a strong background in trading these markets and have excellent risk management skills. Competitive compensation and a collaborative environment await the suitable candidate.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Performance-based bonuses

Opportunity to shape a trading desk

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degrees or CFA / FRM a plus.
• Proven experience in trading frontier or emerging markets.
• Strong understanding of local market structures and liquidity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proprietary trading strategies.
• Conduct macroeconomic and political risk analysis.
• Execute trades while managing portfolio risk.

Skills

Proven experience trading frontier or emerging markets

Risk management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, or related field

Advanced degrees or CFA / FRM

Tools

Trading platforms

Financial software

Job description

Overview

Location: South Africa AP Capital is a diversified global investment firm trading across equities, commodities, FX, and fixed income (bonds, credit & rates).

We employ market-neutral strategies to reduce volatility and deliver consistent, risk-adjusted returns while expanding into frontier markets.

We are seeking an experienced Proprietary Trader focused on frontier market local currency bonds and rates, specifically in Africa and CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) regions.

This is a unique opportunity to build and run a dedicated book in these high-potential, specialized markets.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proprietary trading strategies in local currency sovereign bonds and rates products across Africa and CIS Frontier Markets.
• Conduct in-depth macroeconomic, credit, and political risk analysis to identify trading opportunities.
• Execute trades efficiently while managing portfolio risk, with a sharp focus on sovereign credit risk, FX convertibility, and political event risk.
• Monitor and optimize portfolio performance, ensuring adherence to firm-wide risk protocols.
• Collaborate with analysts and other traders to share insights and refine strategies.
• Stay updated on local market regulations, macroeconomic developments, and sovereign risk in frontier markets.
• Prepare regular reports on trading performance, market conditions, and strategy adjustments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, or related field; advanced degrees or CFA / FRM a plus.
• Proven experience trading frontier or emerging market local currency bonds / rates, specifically in Africa and CIS.
• Strong understanding of local market structures, liquidity, settlement conventions, and FX management.
• Excellent risk management, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in trading platforms and financial software.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to expand and shape a frontier markets trading desk.
• Dynamic, entrepreneurial, and collaborative environment.