Standard Chartered PLC announced that it's subsidiary company, Standard Chartered Bank (Pakistan) Limited has completed the acquisition of a 95.37 percent interest in Union Bank Limited. The amount paid was $487 million, in cash.
Pursuant to the acquisition, Standard Chartered Bank (Pakistan) Limited will submit a scheme of amalgamation to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). On approval, Union Bank and Standard Chartered Bank will amalgamate into Standard Chartered Bank (Pakistan) Limited.
According to a press release issued here on Tuesday, Union Bank provides Standard Chartered with a significant opportunity for growth in both consumer and wholesales banking through product innovation, wider distribution reach and leveraging Standard Chartered's international network.
"Our overriding priority will be to ensure that we maintain the highest standards of service for our customers. For customers of both banks, it will be business as usual until further notice", the press release said.
Badar Kazmi, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Pakistan said the merger with Union Bank demonstrates Standard Chartered's commitment to Pakistan and presents tremendous opportunities. This acquisition is transformational for Standard Chartered in Pakistan. "It will be beneficial for the customers in terms of our ability to provide value-added sophisticated products and services that match our customers' needs", he added.
He said that it would also provide a strong platform for personal and professional development and growth to all staff across the bank. The Standard Chartered opened its first branch in Karachi in 1863. It is the largest international bank in Pakistan, ranked 9th overall in terms of assets. Standard Chartered has a network comprising 46 branches in 10 cities, 52 automated teller machines (ATMs) and 5 cash deposit machines (CDMs). A leader in credit cards and personal loans, Standard Chartered is also the leading provider of transactional banking, trade finance and treasury products and services in Pakistan. Standard Chartered leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.-PR