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Bank Of Cyprus Bond Issuance Garners International Acclaim

The Bank of Cyprus has been honoured with the “Best Financial Institution Bond in Southeast Europe” award by EMEA Finance for its issuance of Additional Tier 1 (AT1) capital securities worth €220 million in June 2023. This accolade highlights the bank’s financial and operational strength, particularly significant as the bond issuance successfully reopened this market segment following the collapse of Credit Suisse.

The AT1 issuance was met with extraordinary demand, with an order book oversubscribed over twelve times, exceeding €2.75 billion. This overwhelming investor interest underscores the bank’s solid reputation and market confidence in its financial health and strategic direction.

Bank of Cyprus CEO Panicos Nicolaou praised this achievement, viewing it as a milestone that aligns with the bank’s 125th anniversary celebrations. He noted that the successful bond issuance is a testament to the bank’s progress and resilience, reflecting its strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening its capital base and supporting sustainable growth.

The recognition from EMEA Finance places the Bank of Cyprus at the forefront of financial innovation and stability in the region. The award not only celebrates the bank’s past accomplishments but also sets a solid foundation for future endeavours in the evolving financial landscape.

The bond issuance and subsequent award signify a significant achievement for the Bank of Cyprus, reinforcing its position as a leading financial institution in Southeast Europe. As the bank continues to navigate the complex economic environment, this accolade serves as a reaffirmation of its strategic vision and commitment to excellence.

HSBC Restructures Banking Divisions and Appoints First Female CFO

HSBC is undergoing significant changes as part of a strategic restructuring led by new CEO Georges Elhedery. The bank is merging its commercial and investment banking units in a bid to streamline its operations, cut costs, and enhance efficiency. This transformation includes consolidating its business into four divisions: UK, Hong Kong, corporate and institutional banking, and wealth banking. The newly formed corporate and institutional banking division will integrate commercial banking with its global banking and markets business, along with its Western wholesale operations.

A notable aspect of this overhaul is the appointment of Pam Kaur, HSBC’s first female Chief Financial Officer, marking a historic moment for the bank. Kaur, who has been with HSBC since 2013 and currently serves as Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, will step into this leadership role at a time when the bank is under pressure to reduce expenses and optimize its business structure.

Other leadership shifts include Greg Guyett assuming a new role as Chair of the Strategic Clients Group and the departure of Colin Bell, CEO of HSBC Bank and Europe, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities. HSBC has been gradually reducing its presence in Western markets like the U.S., France, and Canada to focus on its stronger foothold in Asia.

These changes are part of HSBC’s broader efforts to simplify operations and position itself for future success in an increasingly competitive and cost-sensitive environment.

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