Garanti BBVA Issues $30 Million Sustainable Bond to Advance Gender Equality
Garanti BBVA has issued a $30 million sustainable bond aligned with the BBVA Sustainable Debt Financing Framework under its international funding program. The proceeds of the bond will be channeled towards financing activities that advance gender equality and women’s economic empowerment, while also meeting the relevant criteria set out in the Orange Bond Principles developed by the Impact Investment Exchange (IIX).
Issued on June 29 with a tenor of 372 days, the $30 million represents a step forward in gender-focused financing. Proceeds from the issuance will support a range of initiatives to advance gender equality and women's economic empowerment across employment and value chains, including projects that strengthen women's entrepreneurship and leadership, improve financial inclusion, and increase economic opportunities for women.
Garanti BBVA CEO Mahmut Akten stressed that the bank considers gender equality a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and inclusive growth, adding that enhancing women’s participation in the economy and decision-making processes is vital to long-term economic resilience. “With this $30 million sustainable bond, we are pleased to provide financing for projects that support women’s entrepreneurship, women’s leadership, equal opportunities in employment and financial inclusion. Supporting gender equality through the capital markets is an integral part of our vision for inclusive and sustainable development,” he said.
Through this transaction, Garanti BBVA aims to finance projects that deliver tangible impact on gender equality by supporting women’s participation in the economy, women’s entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.