Vista Group, a holding a financial services company with the mission of becoming a world-leading pan-African banking institution, has received approval from the French banking regulator, ACPR, to establish Vista Bank in France.

Vista Bank France will be launched in the second half of 2025 and will be Vista Bank's first banking operation outside Africa and its first greenfield bank since acquiring several former French banks in Africa.

In recent years, Vista Group has pursued an ambitious growth strategy, acquiring the subsidiaries of BNP Paribas and Société Générale in several African countries.

Simon Tiemtore, Chairman of Vista Group Holding, said: "The establishment of Vista Bank in France is an important milestone in Vista Group's worldwide expansion strategy and underlines our position in the global financial market."

"Our operation in France is the start of our global gateway to support Banco Vista's strategic growth on the African continent, providing correspondent banking, corporate banking, international trade finance, financial assignment, foreign exchange and treasury management and advisory services."

"Vista Bank in France will greatly benefit African companies - helping to boost trade, supporting the economies of the countries where we operate and driving trade growth for Africa."

"This strategic expansion is a testament to our unwavering belief in Africa's potential and our dedication to unlocking opportunities for our customers and the continent."

Vista Bank France is an example of Vista Bank's mission to transform Africa's financial landscape and reinforces its commitment to empowering African companies worldwide.