FBN Holdings to Seek Shareholders’ Approval for N300bn Capital Raise

FBN Holdings, one of Nigeria’s leading financial holding companies, has announced its intention to seek shareholders’ approval for a N300 billion capital raise.

The decision comes amidst efforts to bolster the company’s financial strength and support its growth objectives in the dynamic banking landscape.

In a notice of its extraordinary general meeting (EGM) filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Monday, FBN Holdings revealed its plans to convene a virtual meeting by the end of the month to deliberate on the proposed capital raise.

Shareholders will consider and vote on the special business item, granting the company authorization to undertake a capital raise of up to N300 billion.

“The capital raise transaction shall be by the issuance of shares via a public offering, private placement, rights issue in the Nigerian or international capital markets, at price(s) to be determined by way of a book building process or any other valuation method or combination of methods,” stated the notice.

The decision to pursue such a significant capital raise aligns with the evolving dynamics of the banking sector.

The Central Bank of Nigeria recently revised upward the capital requirements for commercial, merchant, and non-interest banks, as well as promoters of new banks, in response to domestic and global economic challenges.

According to the apex bank’s directive, commercial banks with international authorization are mandated to increase their capital base to N500 billion, while national banks must achieve a capital floor of N200 billion.

Regional banks, on the other hand, are expected to maintain a capital base of N50 billion. Non-interest banks have also been directed to raise their capital to N20 billion and N10 billion for national and regional authorizations, respectively.

FBN Holdings’ move to seek additional capital follows earlier initiatives in this regard. In October, the company sought approval from the Nigerian Exchange Group to raise N139 billion through a rights issue, signaling its proactive approach to fortifying its financial position and supporting future expansion endeavors.