Bank of Syria and Overseas - BSO

Activities

The Bank of Syria and Overseas (BSO) is one of the pioneering private banks in Syria, with a long history dating back to its original establishment in 1936. After decades of state monopoly over the financial sector, the bank was relaunched in January 2004 as part of Syria's reintroduction of private banking, under the umbrella of BLOM Bank Group in Lebanon. This made BSO one of the first private institutions to resume operations in the country, with the goal of modernizing financial services and reconnecting Syria to regional and international markets.

Headquartered in Damascus, BSO operates through a growing network of branches across Syria, serving both individuals and businesses. Its services include current and savings accounts, loans, trade finance, and foreign exchange operations. The bank also benefits from BLOM Bank's regional presence, maintaining connections with financial centers in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, the UAE, Cyprus, France, the UK, Switzerland, Romania, and Qatar. This international reach strengthens its ability to facilitate cross-border transactions and support Syrian clients engaged in global trade.

Financially, BSO has established itself as a major player in the Syrian banking sector. In 2023, it reported a net income of approximately 493 billion Syrian pounds, with total assets exceeding 2.28 trillion Syrian pounds. These figures highlight its resilience and growth despite the challenging economic environment in Syria.

Today, the Bank of Syria and Overseas is recognized as a cornerstone of the country's private banking system. By combining local expertise with international partnerships, it continues to play a vital role in supporting economic development, expanding financial inclusion, and reinforcing confidence in Syria's banking sector.