Mumbai: Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) has successfully issued its first USD-denominated Socially Responsible Bond, raising $50 million in a landmark move aimed at tapping into the growing global pool of ethical and impact-focused investors.
This issuance marks the Bank’s debut in the socially responsible investing (SRI) segment—an investment approach that prioritizes funding projects with positive social and environmental outcomes while avoiding sectors with adverse societal impact.
Focus on Mekong Region Development
The bond, titled the Socially Responsible Mekong Region Development Bond, will channel funds toward infrastructure projects across Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, targeting initiatives that deliver measurable social benefits.
Social projects under this framework typically address critical issues such as infrastructure gaps, economic inclusion, and community development, aligning with broader global sustainability goals.
Transaction Details and Strategic Significance
The three-year bond carries a fixed coupon of 2.385% per annum and was arranged by Standard Chartered. It represents the first issuance under Exim Bank’s Global Medium-Term Note Programme in a private placement format.
The entire issuance was subscribed by The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited, marking:
- The insurer’s first investment in a socially responsible bond issued by an Indian entity
- Exim Bank’s entry into a new class of ESG-focused investors
Leadership Commentary
David Rasquinha, Managing Director of Exim Bank, described the transaction as a strategic milestone, emphasizing that it reinforces the institution’s commitment to ethical financing and socially conscious investments. He noted that the issuance opens new avenues to diversify the Bank’s investor base while aligning with global sustainability trends.
