CFI South Africa Appoints Francois Du Plessis As Chief Executive Officer

Johannesburg, South Africa – 18 August, 2026 – CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider, has appointed Francois du Plessis as Chief Executive Officer of CFI South Africa, reinforcing the Group's long-term commitment to the South African market and its continued investment in local leadership.

Du Plessis brings extensive leadership experience across the online trading industry, with a strong track record spanning business development, commercial strategy, partnerships and regional growth. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in expanding market presence, strengthening client engagement, and driving business growth across South Africa and the wider region.

Leadership appointment and market focus

Ziad Melhem, CEO of CFI Financial Group, said: "South Africa is an important market for CFI, and we see significant long-term potential as we continue building our presence in the country. François brings deep industry experience, strong knowledge of the local market and a leadership approach that aligns well with CFI’s culture and ambitions. His appointment strengthens our local leadership as we continue combining global capabilities with local expertise to deliver greater value to our clients and partners."

Francois du Plessis, CEO of CFI South Africa, added: “What attracted me to CFI was its ambition, its strong global platform and its commitment to empowering traders and investors through innovation, education and exceptional service. South Africa presents significant long-term opportunities, and I look forward to working with the team to strengthen our local presence, deepen our relationships with clients and partners, and build a business positioned for sustainable growth.”

As CEO, du Plessis will lead CFI’s strategy and operations in South Africa, with a focus on strengthening the company’s position in the local market, expanding strategic partnerships, enhancing the client experience and driving growth.

The appointment reflects CFI Financial Group's continued focus on strengthening its leadership across key markets while building long-term relationships with clients through trusted, locally led businesses backed by global capabilities and expertise.

About CFI

Established in 1998, CFI Financial Group is a globally recognized leader in online trading and investing. With more than 25 years of experience as a regulated online trading provider, advanced technology and premium service, CFI delivers seamless access to global and local markets on highly competitive terms, across equities, currencies, commodities and more, from key financial centres including London, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Cape Town, Baku, Beirut, Amman, Cairo and Bogotá.

CFI is committed to building long-term client relationships and supporting traders at every stage of their journey. Its Global Brand Ambassadors, Seven-Time Formula One™ World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton and Tennis Legend Maria Sharapova, together with partnerships across leading sports and cultural institutions including the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, MI Cape Town, the Lebanese Basketball Federation and the Jordan Football Association, reflect a shared commitment to innovation, performance and success while supporting cultural and community initiatives worldwide.