Access Bank set for regional trade finance, cross-border banking services

Access Bank Plc on Tuesday announced that it has received the Central Bank of Nigeria’s approval-in-principle for the bank’s restructuring to a holding company (“HoldCo”).

The proposed HoldCo structure would enable the bank to further accelerate its objectives around business diversification, improved operational efficiencies, talent retention as well as robust governance.

The bank said in a disclosure notice to the Nigerian Stock Exchange that further details regarding the HoldCo structure will be communicated to the market in due course.

Access Bank also announced definitive agreements to bolster its market position in Mozambique and enter the South African market. The bank said the move follows the recent transaction with Cavmont Bank in Zambia and further embeds its presence in the SADC region, one of Africa’s most important trading blocs.

“These transactions will result in a more connected African banking network that builds on Access Bank’s existing foundation and enhances its value proposition to stakeholders, including customers and employees,” the bank said.

“Shareholders will benefit from the economies of scale of a larger banking network, including the associated cost efficiencies arising from the Bank’s federated IT system and the replication of investments Tin innovative products across a wider range of markets.

“A broader and connected Africa network remains a core strategic focus for geographic earnings growth and diversification, which will further enhance profitability and risk metrics. Through these transactions, Access Bank will be well placed to promote regional trade finance and other cross-border banking services, further leveraging its presence in key global trade corridors in the UAE, the UK, China, Lebanon, and India.”