EBRD signs largest-ever deal with Ameriabank worth €150 million – Hanesyan
YEREVAN, November 13. /ARKA/. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)'s €150 million deal with Ameriabank is the largest ever signed with the bank, and possibly the largest EBRD deal in Armenia to date, said Artak Hanesyan, CEO of Ameriabank.
The EBRD has approved a loan package of up to €150 million for Ameriabank, which will be disbursed in two tranches of €100 million and €50 million. The loan will enable Ameriabank to provide financing to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on attracting regional clients and new borrowers.
"This is another significant achievement with our long-standing partner, the EBRD, and I am delighted to have concluded this transaction, which will enable us to support Armenian companies, meet their financing needs, and expand the number of green projects financed by our bank," said Hanesyan.
This initiative will also contribute to Armenia's transition to a green economy, as Ameriabank is committed to allocating at least 40% of its financing to eligible green investments aimed at improving resource efficiency and developing renewable energy.
"This is not just a loan agreement; it is a confirmation of the long-term, deep, comprehensive, and meaningful cooperation between the EBRD and Ameriabank for the benefit of our clients' businesses and our country," said Ara Sargsyan, Head of Financial Institutions at Ameriabank.
This transaction is in line with the EBRD's Country Strategy for Armenia and its Financial Sector Development Strategy, as well as its Green Economy Transition Approach and Gender Equality Strategy.
"These investments will enable us to support Armenian micro, small, and medium enterprises operating both in Yerevan and in the regions beyond, helping them become more resilient and independent, and use their resources more efficiently. I am pleased to sign this transaction. We are confident that the aforementioned credit lines will be utilized within the stipulated timeframe for the benefit of Armenian MSMEs," said Giorgi Akhalkatsi, Head of the EBRD Resident Office in Armenia.
Ameriabank's leadership in digital transformation, regional reach, and inclusive finance places it at the forefront of the Armenian banking sector. Ameriabank ranks first in terms of loan portfolio in the Armenian banking system and second in terms of assets.
With its digital solutions and 26 branches in major cities and the most populous regions of the country, Ameriabank has the opportunity to reach a wide range of private sector entities.
Ameriabank is majority-owned by Lion Finance Group, a holding company listed on the London Stock Exchange. The EBRD is a minority shareholder.
Since the start of its operations in Armenia in 1992, the EBRD has invested approximately €2.6 billion in 232 projects in the financial, corporate, infrastructure, and energy sectors, with 83% of its financing going to private sector development.-0-
