Share holders approve Al Salam Bank’s bid to acquire Ithmaar Bank consumer banking division

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Al Salam Bank announced that the acquisition of Ithmaar Bank’s consumer banking division and a number of other assets in a transaction worth US$2.2 billion received the shareholders’ approval of Ithmaar Holding at an EGM on 17 March 2022.

The approval follows a memorandum of understanding in October 2021 and the agreement to proceed with the transaction in January 2022.

“This transaction is a significant step in our continued journey towards achieving our long-term growth strategy,” said Shaikh Khalid bin Mustahil Al Mashani, Chairman of Al Salam Bank.

“Al Salam Bank continues to build on its robust track-record by executing numerous organic and inorganic growth initiatives cementing Al Salam Bank’s position as the fastest growing bank in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

“With significant potential for shared synergies, the acquisition of Ithmaar Bank’s consumer banking portfolio, with its rich history spanning almost four decades, will lead to significant growth for Al Salam Bank and will further reinforce Bahrain’s position as a leading Islamic Banking hub.”

The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and definitive agreements, entails the sale and transfer of: the entire consumer banking business of Ithmaar Bank, a 26.19% stake in Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait B.S.C. (BBKB.BH), a 55.91% shareholding in Solidarity Group Holding B.S.C. (Closed), a 1% interest in The Benefit Company B.S.C., and other assets including MasterCard Inc. shares and portfolio of Sukuk and liquid assets.

The acquisition will boost Al Salam Bank’s industry positioning as the largest Islamic bank in Bahrain and one of the leading banks in the Kingdom. It is expected that the acquisition will emerge as a benchmark for successful M&A’s locally and regionally.

Rafik Nayed, Group CEO of Al Salam Bank said, “The transaction will positively impact our clients. We will leverage a stronger value proposition to better serve client needs and elevate their banking experience in line with our brand promise. We plan to capitalise on our expanded resources and infrastructure to deliver an enhanced product and service offering.”