In a strategic move to strengthen its presence across Africa, Access Holdings Plc has disclosed that its subsidiary, Access Bank Plc, has signed a binding agreement to acquire a 100% equity stake in Bidvest Bank Limited, a South African financial institution owned by Bidvest Group Limited.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Access Bank’s expansion strategy within the continent’s financial sector.
According to a statement from Access published in vanguardngr.com “this agreement reflects the Bank’s commitment to strengthening its footprint in South Africa and consolidating on its position as the continent’s gateway to global markets as it seeks to optimise the benefits of recent acquisitions and accelerate its transition towards a greater focus on efficiencies”.
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The statement noted that Bidvest Bank, founded in 2000, is a niche and profitable South African financial institution providing a diverse range of services, including corporate and business banking solutions and diverse retail banking products.
“As of its financial year ended June 2024, Bidvest Bank reported total assets equivalent to USD665.0 million and audited profit before tax of USD20.0 million.
The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. Upon conclusion of this acquisition, Bidvest Bank will be merged with the Bank’s existing South African subsidiary to create an enlarged platform to anchor the regional growth strategy for the SADC region, the statement said.
Meanwhile, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, while commenting, said: “This acquisition supports our ambition to expand across Africa and solidify our presence in key markets, with South Africa being a top priority. It underscores our commitment to establishing a more resilient, diversified, and sustainable business model that leverages technology to meet evolving customer needs. Bidvest Bank provides a unique opportunity to blend its strong local expertise with Access Bank’s robust trade and retail banking capabilities, creating a platform for long-term growth and value creation.”
Commenting as well, Mpumi Madisa, Chief Executive of The Bidvest Group, added: “As a well-respected, experienced, and prominent financial services entity, I am pleased that Access Bank meets our objectives and provides reassurance for the continued sustainability and prosperity of the bank. It will enable the bank to advance, scale, and sustainably grow in today’s fast-changing, technology-driven, and highly competitive sector”.
