Standard Chartered, a leading international banking group, has officially launched its operations in Egypt after receiving the green light from the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). This strategic move is in line with the bank’s commitment to fostering Egypt’s economic development, supporting its 2030 Vision, and tapping into the country’s dynamic economic landscape.

Headquartered in Cairo Festival City, Standard Chartered Egypt aims to provide banking services to sovereign and governmental entities, major corporations, financial institutions, and multinational companies operating in Egypt. This expansion reflects the bank’s long-standing history in the region, with a presence spanning over 100 years.

Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive for Standard Chartered, emphasized the importance of Egypt, stating, “Our launch in Egypt is a testament to the country’s strategic importance, its resilience, the potential of its diversified economy, and its strong growth prospects. By leveraging our global network and best-in-class services, we aim to support Egypt’s economic progress and our clients both in Egypt and around the world.”

Standard Chartered was granted its banking license by the Central Bank of Egypt in 2022, paving the way for this official launch. The bank’s entry into the Egyptian market aligns with the country’s new membership in the BRICS group, signifying its significant economic potential and attractiveness to international investors.

Sunil Kaushal, Regional Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered in Africa and the Middle East, expressed his appreciation for the Central Bank of Egypt’s leadership and highlighted the strategic importance of Egypt within the Middle East and North Africa region. He stated, “The launch of the Egypt branch aims to fulfill a long-standing gap in the Bank’s network and reinforces our commitment to Egypt and the Middle East and North Africa region.”

In November 2023, Standard Chartered appointed Mohammed Gad as the Chief Executive Officer for its operations in Egypt, further solidifying its commitment to the Egyptian market.

Standard Chartered’s dedication to advancing the Egyptian economy aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030, and the bank intends to provide robust support to its clients and partners by leveraging its extensive financial network.

The Middle East holds a strategic position for Standard Chartered, with its first branch in the region established in Bahrain in 1920. The bank, headquartered in the United Kingdom, focuses on emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, making this expansion into Egypt a significant milestone in its global presence.

Standard Chartered’s entry into the Egyptian market signals an exciting development in the country’s banking and financial sector, promising growth opportunities and increased access to international financial services for businesses and institutions operating in Egypt.