Actor and creative director Nick Kwach has sparked fresh debate after voicing his doubts about the growing forex trading craze in Kenya, likening it to the once-booming “online writing” industry that many young people pursued with mixed outcomes.

Speaking Out on Emos Njoroge’s PodcastAppearing on Emos Njoroge’s podcast, where he was introduced as East Africa’s top actor and most influential thespian of 2024 (as recognized by Pulse), Kwach shared his candid perspective on the financial trend that has captivated many Kenyan youths.

Kwach admitted he is unconvinced by the astronomical profit claims made by some forex traders, who often flaunt supposed daily earnings running into millions of shillings. “By the way, I think Forex now is online writing,” he said, pointing out similarities in how both industries are heavily marketed as quick-money ventures yet clouded in skepticism.

Forex as a “Smoke Screen”Kwach questioned whether forex trading is truly what it appears to be, describing it as a “smoke screen.” His remark suggested that behind the flashy lifestyle posts and promises of overnight wealth, there may be more illusion than substance.

“Do you think that if that forex was paying as these people are saying—that they can make Ksh20 million in a day—we would still have farmers going to the shamba for four months to harvest only six sacks of maize? Or teachers waiting 30 days to earn Ksh50,000?” he asked rhetorically.

For him, the mathematics simply doesn’t align. “The math is not adding up, don’t believe,” he emphasized, warning against blind faith in extraordinary claims.

Challenging the Narrative of Instant WealthThe host, Emos Njoroge, brought up popular narratives about forex as a path to financial freedom. However, Kwach pushed back, insisting that the reality for most people is far from the dream of “million-presidention”—a phrase used jokingly in reference to traders’ lofty promises. His caution reflected a larger concern about how easily Kenyans can be drawn into industries that thrive on hype but leave many disillusioned.

Who is Nick Kwach?Beyond his critique, Kwach is best known as an actor, with more than a decade of experience spanning theatre, television, and commercials. He has worked with global brands like Bolt and co-founded Crony, a production house specializing in political satire and cultural commentary. His creative work, often reflective of societal patterns, gives him a sharp lens for spotting narratives that don’t quite add up.

Through his bold statements, Kwach has reignited conversations on financial literacy, skepticism, and the culture of “get-rich-quick” schemes in Kenya—reminding audiences that not everything marketed online is what it seems.