- National Bank of Malawi is the country’s largest commercial bank, offering comprehensive retail, corporate, and financial services supported by a network of service centres, ATMs, and digital platforms.
- It operates multiple financial subsidiaries, has expanded regionally into Tanzania, and promotes financial inclusion through digital and educational initiatives.
National Bank of Malawi: Countrywide banking network
Established in 1971 through the merger of Barclays Bank and Standard Bank, National Bank of Malawi (NBM) is today the nation’s top commercial bank. Operating 32 service centres, around 135 ATMs, and over 800 FastServe agents, it ensures widespread retail—and corporate banking reach across Malawi.
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National Bank of Malawi: Broad financial services and strong financial position
With more than 1,000 employees and total assets estimated at approximately US $579 million (MWK 417 billion) as of 2018, NBM offers personal accounts, loans, mortgages, agristorage financing, foreign exchange services, corporate solutions, and pension management via its subsidiaries.
National Bank of Malawi: Regional expansion and strategic investments
NBM holds majority stakes in several finance-related entities, including 60% in Akiba Commercial Bank, 100% ownership of both NBM Capital Markets and NBM Pensions Administration, and 75% in Stockbrokers Malawi. It also acquired a 51% stake in Tanzania’s Akiba Bank to extend its regional footprint.
National Bank of Malawi: Commitment to financial inclusion and digital innovation
In support of Malawi’s financial inclusion ambitions, NBM has rolled out mobile banking via its Mo626 platform and launched social media campaigns like ‘Two Truths and One Myth’ to educate youth on financial literacy.
National Bank of Malawi: Governance and resilience
Listed on the Malawi Stock Exchange since 2000 following an IPO that was oversubscribed by 3.4 times, NBM remains one of its most liquid stocks. The bank maintains a robust governance framework, overseen by an experienced board led by Chairman Jimmy Lipunga and CEO Harold Jiya.
