NBB plays key role as Joint Lead Manager in Bahrain's $1bn sovereign bond issue

18/06/2026 03:46 AST

National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) acted as Joint Lead Manager and Bookrunner in Bahrain's successful $1 billion 10-year international bond issuance.

The bank's involvement reinforces its role and contribution as a trusted financial partner in the country's most strategically important capital markets transactions over the years, NBB said.

Despite ongoing volatility in global financial markets, the issuance was successfully priced at a final yield of 7.125%, tightening from initial price guidance of 7.50% on the back of a robust orderbook that peaked over $3.2 billion; representing a strong outcome in the context of prevailing market conditions and marking another landmark transaction by the Kingdom. The offering attracted strong engagement from the investment community, underscoring sustained confidence in Bahrain's economic outlook and resilience.

Usman Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of NBB, said: "Through this $1 billion issue, Bahrain has led the re-opening of international debt markets since the start of the regional conflict. The strong oversubscription achieved against an unprecedented market backdrop demonstrates the continued confidence of global and regional investors in Bahrain's medium-long term economic vision and policies. NBB is proud to have played a leading role in the transaction".

Husain Almohri, Group Chief Executive - Markets & Client Solutions at NBB, added, "NBB's appointment on this transaction underscores our expertise in executing sophisticated capital markets mandates, as well as our strong track record in supporting the Kingdom across complex and strategically significant funding initiatives. The successful pricing of the bond reflects Bahrain's established credibility among global investors, underpinned by the Kingdom's effective leadership, policy direction, financial system, and economic management. It also highlights the strength of the longstanding relationships Bahrain has built with the international investment community."

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