Nairobi, May 5 -- Private credit has grown in prominence since the 2009 financial crisis that prompted banks to tighten lending standards.

Following recent high-profile defaults in the US - notably Tricolor Holdings and First Brands - combined with concerns over company valuations, private credit has come under intense scrutiny. Many investors and analysts now view this upheaval as early warning signs of the next financial crisis.

What is private credit?

Private credit can be broadly defined as lending that takes place outside of the traditional banking system. It includes elements such as trade financing, venture capital, infrastructure financing, and development finance institutions (DFIs). Private credit is more commonly associated ...