NBB launches Sustainable Finance framework for ESG commitments
Developed in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain as the Sustainability Structuring Advisor, the framework adheres to the International Capital Market Association's (ICMA) Green and Social Bond Principles and the Loan Market Association's (LMA) Green and Social Loan Principles. It has also been validated through a Second Party Opinion (SPO) issued by ISS Corporate Solutions.
The framework establishes a structured approach for the National Bank of Bahrain to evaluate parameters in the financing of sustainable projects, such as renewable energy, clean transportation, green buildings and employment generation management, amongst others. These projects are supported by the framework across four main components which are use of proceeds to define clear criteria for the allocation of funds towards sustainable projects, project evaluation and selection that implements a rigorous process to identify impactful projects, management of proceeds which documents NBB's approach to ensuring appropriate use of proceeds, and reporting to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilisation.
Commenting on the occasion, Usman Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of NBB said, 'The introduction of our Sustainability Finance Framework marks a significant milestone in NBB's sustainability journey. This initiative reflects our relentless pursuit of positive environmental and social impact in alignment with both national and global sustainability goals. By integrating sustainability into our financing practices, we aim to empower clients to achieve their ESG objectives and contribute to building a resilient and equitable future for generations to come.'
Dr. Boutros Klink, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain added, 'We are delighted to have built on our strong relationship with the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) and our support for the Kingdom's sustainability ambitions by assisting in creating NBB's Sustainable Finance Framework. We commend NBB for leading the way among financial institutions in setting ambitious emission reduction targets. Standard Chartered Bank is committed to supporting our clients across our dynamic footprint as they venture into the sustainable finance market and proud to have been part of Bahrain's economic growth for more than 100 years.'
As part of its broader ESG strategy, NBB's framework integrates mechanisms for environmental and social risk assessment to promote transparency and accountability in sustainability initiatives. By embedding ESG considerations into its financing activities, the Bank seeks to encourage stakeholders to mitigate risks, capitalise on opportunities in responsible finance, and allocate resources to impactful projects. With strong collaborations with industry peers, regulators, and investors, the Bank reinforces its position as a key catalyst furthering the Kingdom's enduring vision of a more inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystem.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Biz Bahrain
5 days ago
- Biz Bahrain
Standard Chartered: Weak Dollar to Unlock Opportunities in Emerging Markets and Global Equities
Standard Chartered announced its Global Market Outlook for the second half of 2025, projecting a constructive but volatile environment for investors worldwide. The Bank sees significant implications for Middle East investors, driven by expectations of a softer US dollar, resilient global equity markets and improving prospects for emerging-market assets. The report highlights that Global macro conditions remain mixed. In the United States, growth continues to be supported by resilient consumption and fiscal stimulus, though trade and policy uncertainty may temper momentum in the second half of the year. In Europe, fiscal easing increasingly offers support, but structural challenges persist while China's outlook is stabilising on the back of targeted stimulus and improving retail activity. Meanwhile, growth in India and ASEAN is expected to remain well-supported. Against this backdrop, the report outlines an investment strategy reflecting evolving risks and opportunities. We expect the US dollar to weaken over the next 6 to 12 months and have accordingly upgraded Asia (ex-Japan) equities and Emerging Market (EM) local-currency bonds to Overweight. Global equities also remain an Overweight position across portfolios, supported by healthy earnings, easing trade tensions, and controlled inflation (so far). Commenting on the report, Dr. Boutros Klink, CEO, Standard Chartered Bahrain, said: 'As global markets transition into a new phase, investors in Bahrain and the wider Middle East are well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities. A weaker dollar historically supports returns across risk assets, particularly in emerging markets, which have long been core components of regional portfolios.' He added: 'This outlook underscores a critical moment for investors in the region. As the global environment adjusts to weak dollar dynamics, shifting trade policies, and diverging central bank actions, investors in our region have an opportunity to reposition portfolios with greater international diversification. Asset classes such as emerging market bonds and equities across major regions (including non-US equities) are well-placed to help investors navigate volatility, capture income, and enhance portfolio resilience in today's shifting landscape.' In line with these themes, the report maintains a preference for USD-denominated bonds in the 5–7-year maturity range, citing them as the most attractive in terms of risk-adjusted returns, particularly as yields begin to ease from current levels. Meanwhile, Developed Market Investment Grade corporate bonds have been downgraded to Underweight due to tight yield premiums and slower inflows. Alternative investments are also in focus, with the Bank highlighting gold as a core allocation, supported by strong central bank demand and its role as a diversifier when bonds offer less downside protection.
Daily Tribune
5 days ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Set to Launch Digital Management System for Non-Profit Organizations
The Ministry of Social Development is preparing to launch a new electronic system designed to streamline the management of charitable and civil organizations across the Kingdom. Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development, Inas Mohammed Al Majed, confirmed that the new system—currently in its final stages of development—marks a significant step in upgrading the digital infrastructure that supports non-profit organizations. 'This initiative reflects the Ministry's commitment to building an advanced digital environment that keeps pace with Bahrain's broader digital transformation goals,' she said. The system aims to simplify procedures, speed up services, and enhance transparency by enabling organizations to manage their operations more efficiently through electronic documentation and monitoring tools. Al Majed emphasized that the platform was developed in close collaboration with civil society partners, showcasing a strong spirit of cooperation in supporting community development efforts. She also expressed appreciation for the support of the National Bank of Bahrain and the technical expertise of Otyaf eSolutions, the company implementing the project. 'This is not just a digital upgrade,' Al Majed noted. 'It's about making daily operations easier for associations and promoting accountability and good governance at all levels.' The launch follows a formal agreement signed between the Ministry, private sector companies, and civil society organizations. This partnership highlights the country's growing emphasis on public-private collaboration to support social progress through digital solutions. The Ministry confirmed it will continue to improve its digital services to ensure that non-profit groups can operate more effectively and stay connected with government systems, benefiting the broader Bahraini community.
Daily Tribune
6 days ago
- Daily Tribune
NBB Builds Talent Partnerships Bahrain's Youth Pipeline Strengthens as NBB Rallies Education Powerhouses Behind EVOLVE
TDT | Manama The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has formalised new partnerships with a wide range of institutions for the 2025 edition of its flagship internship initiative, EVOLVE, reinforcing its role as a key driver of youth development in the Kingdom. At a dedicated networking event in Manama, NBB signed Memoranda of Understanding with several academic institutions, training providers, and national organisations, further embedding EVOLVE into Bahrain's long-term education and employment landscape. With its expanding partnerships, NBB is strengthening its social impact footprint, offering structured internship pathways that connect students with real-world learning experiences. The initiative stands out not only for its scale but also for its inclusive approach that spans both private and public sector institutions. Strategic Commitment Attendees were briefed on the programme's evolution, its contribution to national talent-building efforts, and its growing network of supporters. Among the partners onboarded are the Royal Humanitarian Foundation, AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, and major training entities such as: Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) Bahrain Fintech Bay INJAZ Bahrain Emeritus Institute of Management National Cybersecurity Centre Corporate and specialist partners like Marsh Academy, Mada Translation, American Health Association, and Mumtalakat Holding Company also joined the initiative. NBB's move reflects an emerging model in Bahrain's corporate landscape, where banks and large institutions are taking on broader developmental roles in line with national strategies. Schools and Universities This year's EVOLVE cohort includes students from prominent schools such as: Ibn Khuldoon National School Bahrain Bayan School Al Hekma International School Sacred Heart School British School of Bahrain American School of Bahrain On the university front, participants include: American University of Bahrain Bahrain Polytechnic Ahlia University Euro University British University of Bahrain Collaborative Ecosystem By bringing together key players across education, training, and industry, the EVOLVE programme continues to align with Bahrain's vision to empower youth with future-ready skills and professional exposure. The EVOLVE 2025 edition demonstrates NBB's commitment to fostering a capable and competitive national workforce.
