London: London-based Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA) has led a US$80 million club loan financing for Uzbekistan's Ipak Yuli Bank, funded by OeEB, CDP, and Allianz Global Investors (AGI). (US$1 = RM4.07)

According to BERNAMA News Agency, EMGA Head of Investment Banking and Managing Director, Sajeev Chakkalakal, expressed satisfaction with the role of lead arranger in structuring this facility for Ipak Yuli. The loan aims to enhance the bank's SME, Gender, and Green portfolios. Chakkalakal highlighted the importance of EMGA's close relationships with Ipak Yuli and the participating Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) in executing this complex transaction successfully.

Ipak Yuli Bank's CEO, Umidjon Khakimov, stated that this transaction strengthens the bank's cooperation with EMGA and establishes new international partnerships. Khakimov noted that the deal diversifies the bank's funding base, allowing it to expand support to clients and businesses in Uzbekistan.

Ipak Yuli, established in December 1990, operates as a joint-stock commercial-innovation bank in Uzbekistan. It provides banking services to individual entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, state organizations, institutions, and corporate clients.

OeEB functions as the Development Bank of Austria since March 2008, while CDP serves as Italy's official Development Finance Institution and National Promotional Institution. CDP focuses on financing sustainable development, international cooperation, infrastructure, and business growth in emerging and developing markets. AGI, a global investment management firm owned by Allianz, has offices in 21 locations worldwide.