MANAMA: The Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK), one of the largest commercial banks in Bahrain, and Ithmaar Holding, the parent of Ithmaar Bank, which operates the largest Islamic retail banking network in Bahrain, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the potential acquisition by BBK of Ithmaar Bank’s Bahrain operations as well as specific assets of IB Capital, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ithmaar Holding.
The MoU, which was signed by BBK Chief Executive Officer, Dr. AbdulRahman Ali Saif, and Ithmaar Holding Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Abdul Rahim, who is also the Ithmaar Bank Chief Executive Officer, builds on the joint BBK-Ithmaar Holding earlier statement in August 2020 announcing initial talks regarding the potential acquisition.
The plans, which are subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, are still in the discussions phase and subject to the completion of due diligence by both parties.
When implemented, the plans will significantly expand BBK’s already large operations in Bahrain and add a turn-key, full-service Islamic banking solution, while also bolstering the already well established Ithmaar Bank brand and position it to better capitalize on opportunities for growth. The plans are in line with Ithmaar Holding’s strategy of creating value for its shareholders.
Details of the plans will be announced in due course, following necessary approvals.
