Find an ATM


Branch ATM Locations

Junction Shopping Centre Branch

Shop 14
Intersection of Beach and Ashaiman-Klagon Roads
Nungua
Accra

Accra Financial Centre

Ground Floor Accra Financial Centre
Cnr of Independence and Liberia Avenue
Accra

Accra Mall

Near Tetteh Quarshie Inter-change
Spintex Road

Achimota Mall

Near Dome, St. Johns Junction
Accra-Nsawam Road

West Hills Mall

West Hills Mall
Dunkonah - Accra

Tema

Giaan Towers
Hospital Road
Community 11 - Tema

Airport Branch

1 Kofi Annan Street
Airport Residential Area
Accra

Tema Community One Branch

Ground Floor
Lodestar Heights
Community One, Tema

Takoradi Branch

Ground Floor
Far West Building, B Market Circle
Takoradi

Kumasi Branch

Ground Floor, Annex Building
SSNIT Complex, Harper Road
Adum, Kumasi



Off-Site ATM Locations

Osu ATM

Total Filling Station
Oxford Street, Osu
Accra

Spintex ATM

Shell Filling Station
Spintex Road (next to Agapet Filling station)
Accra

Agbogba Junction ATM

Shell Filling Station,
Agbogba Junction (Adjacent KFC)
Accra

Tema Community 1 ATM

Total Filling Station
Behind Tema Sport Stadium

A&C Mall

14 Jungle Road,
East Legon,
Accra

UGMC ATM

University of Ghana Medical Centre
Legon Bypass, Legon
Accra

Afienya ATM

Afienya Goil Fuel Station (opposite Basilissa)
Tema

Find a branch


Branch Locations

Kejetia Branch

Ground Floor, Bendeltar Towers (Evergreen Chemist Building)
Georgia K. Kusi Avenue
Kejetia, Kumasi

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Ghana Post GPS: AK-019-8037

Junction Shopping Centre Branch

Shop 14
Intersection of Beach and Ashaiman-Klagon Roads
Nungua
Accra

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GZ-065-9443

Accra Branch

Ground Floor Accra Financial Centre
Cnr of Independence and Liberia Avenue
Accra

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: Closed

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GA-107-1953

Accra Mall Branch

Plot No. C11, Spintex Road
Accra
Shop Numbers 67 & 68

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GL-152-3649

Achimota Mall Branch

Parcel No.9563, Block 11, Section 158
Situate at Achimota, Shop Numbers 93 & 95
Accra

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GE-361-2503

West Hills Mall Branch

Plot Areas A, B and C West Hills Mall
Limited situate at Dunkonah - Accra
Shop Numbers 77 & 79

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GA-0207-6718

Makola Branch

Ground Floor Banking Space 3
Mall Phase II
Makola-Accra

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GA-142-9659

Tema Branch

Giaan Towers
Hospital Road
Community Eleven − Tema

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GT-078-9610

Airport Branch

1 Kofi Annan Street
Airport Residential Area
Accra

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GA-152-7027

Tema Community One Branch

Ground Floor
Lodestar Heights
Community One, Tema

Business hours:
Monday - Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: GT-021-1316

Market Circle Branch

Ground Floor
Far West Building, B Market Circle
Takoradi

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: WS-245-1885

Adum Branch

Ground Floor, Annex Building
SSNIT Complex, Harper Road
Adum, Kumasi

Business hours:
Monday − Friday: 08h30 − 17h00
Saturday: 09h00 − 14h00

Telephone
+23 324 243 5050

Ghana Post GPS: AK-037-5268

Agency Plus Locations

Deposit and withdraw cash conveniently at any First National Bank Cash Plus agent listed below instead of queuing at branches or ATMs. All you need is a First National Bank account, Mobile App or be registered for Cellphone Banking.


Accra

Agent name: 3iconx Systems Limited
Agent location: First Floor Of Unicom Chemist, Korle Bu
GPS code: GA-270-0641
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-19:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Akessiwa L'or Ventures
Agent location: Adjacent Nhyira Pub, Manhean Ablekuma
GPS code: GC-110-1420
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-20:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Allinone Enterprise
Agent location: Near Palace Shopping, Tetegu-Weija
GPS code: GS-0134-6826
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:30-17:30
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Baby Center Mothercare
Agent location: Near Light House Chapel, East Legon Hills
GPS code: GK-0821-4012
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:30-19:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Bertline Pharmacy Ltd
Agent location: Opposite Gt Bank, Tudu
GPS code: GA-142-0753
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:00-19:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Commtech Solutions Investment
Agent location: Near Mtn Office, Haatso
GPS code: GE-297-4125
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-18:00
Saturday 09:30-17:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Country Medical & Pharmacy Limited
Agent location: Barn Yard Traffic Light, Awoshie
GPS code: GA-579-9310
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-22:30
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Dadziemens Ventures
Agent location: Mile 13 Junction, Frafraha
GPS code: GD-019-5429
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:30
Sundays 14:30-19:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: De Bread Communication
Agent location: Near Takoradi Station, Kaneshie
GPS code: GA-313-2867
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:00-18:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Dipsy Payment & Services Company Ltd
Agent location: Next To Eddies Pizza Ashongman Round About, Ashongman
GPS code: GE-229-5362
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-18:00
Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Epp Books Services Ghana
Agent location: Opposite Trade Fair, La
GPS code: GL-022-8994
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-17:00
Saturday 09:30-16:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Epp Books Services Ghana Tesbury
Agent location: Inside Legon City Mall, Legon
GPS code: GA-488-1135
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-19:00
Sunday 12:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Executive Merchant Company
Agent location: Opposite Donewell Methodist Church, Santa Maria
GPS code: GC-061-6082
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 06:30-19:00
Saturday 06:00-18:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Faith Pharmaceutical Limited
Agent location: Adjacent Fomag School, Country Side, Amasaman
GPS code: GW-0012-8561
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-22:00
Sunday 14:00-21:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: First Internet Limited
Agent location: First Floor Of Pizza Man, Scc-Weija
GPS code: GS-0166-5770
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-20:00
Saturday 08:00-19:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Gietta Company Limited
Agent location: Opposite Accra Medical Center, Ring Road Estate, Osu
GPS code: GA-031-5356
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Gloricom Ventures
Agent location: Opposite Total Fuel Station, Haatso Ecomog
GPS code: GE-297-1865
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:30-20:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Good Generation Enterprise
Agent location: Near Rockster Roofing System, Tantra Hill
GPS code: GW-0742-1514
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Hajia Express Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite The Post Office, Mamprobi
GPS code: GA-268-6568
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-19:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Healthaid Pharmacy
Agent location: Inside The Goil Filling Station, Osakuma Street, Fadama
GPS code: GA-530-9586
Operating hours: 24 Hours All Days
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Isste Ventures
Agent location: Close To Access Bank, Lashibi
GPS code: GC-362-6174
Operating hours: Monday-Sundays 07:00-22:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Janeadd Enterprise
Agent location: Near Micheal Duah Motors Inside Abossey Spare Parts Market, Abossey Okai
GPS code: GA-263-6578
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-16:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Kaby Chemists
Agent location: Near Gyamfi Garments, Agbonboi Street, Bubuashie
GPS code: GA-310-8773
Operating hours: 24 Hours All Days
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Key-On
Agent location: Opposite Akokono Delight Food Shop, Baatsona-Spintex
GPS code: GT-333-9806
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-20:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Kira Ventures
Agent location: Adjacent Fidelity Bank, Dzorwulu
GPS code: GA-585-8131
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-19:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Kwabesafo Enterprise
Agent location: Near Achimota Old Station, Achimota
GPS code: GA-204-87440
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:00-19:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Lego's Corner Avenue
Agent location: Near The Dome Lorry Station, Lapaz
GPS code: GA-392-2354
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-19:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Lesb Financial Advisory Services
Agent location: Opposite Puma Fuel Station, Ashaley Botwe
GPS code: GD-223-1057
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:30-17:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Loc Yaakov Susu Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite Darkuman Mosque, Darkuman
GPS code: GA-467-1836
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Matcare Pharmacy Limited
Agent location: Close To Eddies Pizza Baatsona Road, Spintex
GPS code: GT-367-9248
Operating hours: 24 Hours All Days
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Maveg Group Limited
Agent location: Close To Prudential Bank, Ampim Street, Taifa
GPS code: GE-331-0927
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 06:30 -18:30
Saturday 07:00-16:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Me Micalen Enterprise
Agent location: University Of Ghana-Legon Bush Canteen
GPS code: GA-454-7319
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Megamax Electronics Limi
Agent location: Round About Near St Martin De Porres, Dansoman
GPS code: GA-537-0253
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-18:00
Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Melchizedek Trading
Agent location: Same Building As Las Palmas, Lapaz
GPS code: GA-392-5510
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:00
Sunday 14:00-20:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Mikesh Ventures
Agent location: Near Christ Mission School, Kwashieman
GPS code: GC-038-5503
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-19:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Minnahson Ventures
Agent location: Opposite First Atlantic Bank, Madina
GPS code: GM-003-0478
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:30
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Nelmandela Enterprise
Agent location: Close To The Last Stop Trotro Station, Dansoman Last Stop
GPS code: GA-543-9873
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-19:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: O Fish-Wisely Enterprise
Agent location: Opera Square, Makola Market
GPS code: GA-182-5000
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Ohemaa Mercy Gyawu-Kyem Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite The Tigo Office, Circle- Kokomlemlet
GPS code: GA-099-3992
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-19:30
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Om Market Susu Enterprise
Agent location: Inside The Agbogbloshie Market, Agbogbloshie
GPS code: GA-139-0150
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Parathur Services
Agent location: Near Gcb, Okaishie Market
GPS code: GA-142-6895
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-16:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Pistos Enterprise
Agent location: 18th Junction,Near First Allied, Spintex
GPS code: GT-373-5813
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-19:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Premier Digital Hub
Agent location: Atta Mills Road, Ofankor
GPS code: GW-0543-2616
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-18:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Premium Access
Agent location: Inside Star Filling, Tabora
GPS code: GW-1226-9001
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-21:00
Sunday 15:00-21:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Pretty Image Brown Enterprise
Agent location: Inside The Goil Fuel Station, Dansoman-Police Station, Control-Dansoman
GPS code: GU-540-0082
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-20:00
Sunday 13:00-20:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Psalm 2:8 Ventures
Agent location: Inside Hotel De Horses, Kantamanto
GPS code: GA-140-4112
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Ralpjanni Enterprise
Agent location: Near Fidelity Bank Inside Madina Market, Madina
GPS code: GM-004-2508
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:30-18:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Rata Ann Ventures
Agent location: Near Ecobank, Darkuman Junction
GPS code: GA-470-8544
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:00-16:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Safremuun Enterprise
Agent location: Adjacent Joy Fm, Kokomlemle
GPS code: GA-099-3036
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-20:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Smart Fanis Company Limited
Agent location: Near The Inkulanu Food Processing Company, Madina Market
GPS code: GM-004-0333
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Stevag Godwill Ventures
Agent location: Opposite St. Mary's School, North Kaneshie
GPS code: GA-212-9503
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:20
Sunday 15:00-20:20
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Synchronise Link Ventures
Agent location: Near Danquah Circle, Osu
GPS code: GA-035-8203
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-22:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Tilapia.Com
Agent location: Near The Access Bank Branch On Police Station Road, Osu
GPS code: GA-114-7873
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-18:30
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Topmed Limited
Agent location: Near Voltic Water Company, Kotoku Station Rd Medie
GPS code: GW-0487-2849
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-21:30
Sunday 10:00-21:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Wanako Plus Ventures
Agent location: Inside The Goil Filling Station, Adenta
GPS code: GD-000-85-89
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:30-21:00
Sunday 11:30-21:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Wellplus Rs Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite Champions House International Ministries, Nungua
GPS code: GZ-024-6584
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-21:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Zeepay GH Dansoman
Agent location: Opposite Eddy's Pizza, Mama's Inn Junction, Dansoman
GPS code: GA-538-1344
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Agent name: Zeepay GH Osu
Agent location: Opposite Mtn Office, Osu
GPS code: GR-032-4882
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-19:30
Saturday 09:00-17:00
Sunday 13:00-17:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Zeepay GH-Palace Mall
Agent location: Inside Palace Shopping Mall, Spintex
GPS code: GA-232-7512
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-19:00
Saturday-Sunday 10:00-17:00
Contact details: 593867155

Ashaiman

Agent name: Catkom Ventures Limited
Agent location: Inside The Mybet Main Building, Ashaiman Traffic Light, Ashaiman
GPS code: GB-017-1712
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Mydu Ventures
Agent location: Close To The Ashiaman Station/Police Station, Ashiaman
GPS code: GB-017-7002
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:30-18:30
Sunday 10:00-17:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Perfect Trusted Business Solutions
Agent location: Near Lebanon Market, Lebanon
GPS code: GB-049-8439
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-19:00
Saturday 09:30-16:30
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Talk Solution
Agent location: Opposite Stanbic Bank,Ashiaman
GPS code: GB-005-5320
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-19:00
Saturday 09:30-16:30
Contact details: 501464723

Kasoa

Agent name: Adosa Central
Agent location: Close To West End School, Ngleshie Amanfro
GPS code: GS-0625-6866
Operating hours: Sunday-Friday 07:00-18:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Anointedlens
Agent location: Near Palad Afrique, Kasoa Newtown
GPS code: CG-0476-1668
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: M.City Pharmacy Limited
Agent location: Behind Health Insurance, Cp Junction
GPS code: CG-0699-5731
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-22:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Mimshach Enterprise
Agent location: Near Tuba Taxi Rank, Tuba
GPS code: GS-0356-9023
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-21:00
Sunday 13:30-21:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Prinaplux
Agent location: Near Former Gn Bank, Kasoa
GPS code: CX-021-3988
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-17:00
Saturday 09:00-14:00
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Agent name: Prinaplux Adade
Agent location: Adade Last Stop, Kasoa
GPS code: CG-1532-2427
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-18:30
Contact details: 0593867162/0548934030

Koforidua

Agent name: Dotferd Trading Enterprise
Agent location: St Martin Hotel, Nyamekrom Road, Koforidua
GPS code: EN-037-2483
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-19:00
Sunday 12:00-19:00
Contact details: 593867155

Kumasi

Agent name: 21st Business Solutions And Trading Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite Cbg, Ahodwo
GPS code: AK-370-4704
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Agyaatwima Enterprise
Agent location: Inside Stanbic Bank Building, Harpar Road Adum
GPS code: AK-037-6389
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 09:00-17:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Ambris 1988 Enterprise
Agent location: Second Floor Store Number 0447, Kejetia Market-Kumasi
GPS code: AK-017-5002
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Benji Sebe Ventures
Agent location: Close To The Chief Palace, Kromuase
GPS code: AK-597-2347
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-19:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Bless And Keep Enterprise
Agent location: Near The Total Filling Station, Abrepo Junction
GPS code: AK-087-4503
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Blessed Kubi Ventures
Agent location: Near Sinal Pharmacy, Ahenema Kokoben
GPS code: AG-0830-2051
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Bluesun Ventures
Agent location: Opposite Star Junction, Kwadaso Estate
GPS code: AK-232-4055
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-21:00
Sunday 12:00-21:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Ceakos-Grp Ventures
Agent location: Near Seedwill International School, Oduom
GPS code: AK-777-7932
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-19:30
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Cedar Edge Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite King David Pharmacy, Krofrom
GPS code: AK-012-3943
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Efix Pluse Enterprise
Agent location: Adjacent Siloam Hospital, Kwadaso
GPS code: AK-352-3048
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-21:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: F.O.H Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite The Roman Church Bantama Market
GPS code: AK-058-7809
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Franscode One Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite The Police Training School, Patasi
GPS code: AK-128-9003
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-22:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Geobeng 99 Ventures
Agent location: Second Floor 1895, Kejetia Market-Kumasi
GPS code: AK-017-514
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: God's Gift Adam Enterprise
Agent location: Suame Taxi Station Close To The Municipal Assembly, Oforikrom
GPS code: AK-105-2481
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-21:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Great E-Amoh Ventures
Agent location: Near The Lorry Station, Kronum
GPS code: AK-402-2018
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Habib Gali Enterprise
Agent location: Inside Talent Microfinance Building, Adum
GPS code: AK-019-9175
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:30
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: J G Business Solutions
Agent location: Opposite Ap Filling Station, Santasi Ayinam
GPS code: AG-1653-6713
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: J G Business Solutions
Agent location: Opposite Ap Filling Station, Santasi Ayinam
GPS code: AG-1653-6713
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Kumasi Continental Supermarket Limited
Agent location: Close To Ayiduase Gate, Knust
GPS code: AK-508-0388
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Kwadwo Brefo Ventures
Agent location: Near The Old Total Filling Station, Dr.Mensah
GPS code: AK-006-5426
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:30-17:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Marvellous Prince Enterprise
Agent location: Near The Lorry Station, Pokukrom-Kumasi
GPS code: AH-132-4142
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Mistybills Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite Fortune Wines And Liquor, Abrepo Highways, Abrepo
GPS code: AK-280-6156
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Muaish Plus Global Company Limited
Agent location: Near Aboabo Bus Stop Transformer, Aboabo
GPS code: AS-AS-14707
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Mummy Dot.Comm
Agent location: Opposite The Post Office, Satansi
GPS code: AK-365-3974
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-21:00
Sunday 15:00-21:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Owutech Solutions
Agent location: Near Royal Gate Hostel, Bomso
GPS code: AK-249-6361
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Paul Opoku 1537 Ventures
Agent location: Inside Fidelity Bank Building, Tarkwa Maakro
GPS code: AK-116-6069
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Saeed Ayuba Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite King Faisal Football Office, Akwatia Line
GPS code: AS-102-8623
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Strenuous Effort Enterprise
Agent location: Inside Techiman Lorry Station, Dr.Mensah
GPS code: AK-006-3435
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: The Afonja's Enterpise
Agent location: Close To The Shell Filling Station, Akwatia Line
GPS code: AS-101-8914
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:30-18:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Triple M 92 Ventures
Agent location: Close To The Chief Place, Tafo-Kumasi
GPS code: AK-112-5841
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 06:00-20:00
Contact details: 240098374

Agent name: Virtue Link Company Limited
Agent location: Near The Taxi Rank, Suame Post Office
GPS code: AK-054-2738
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-17:30
Saturday 08:30-17:00
Contact details: 240098374

Sunyani

Agent name: Kkc Smartlife Enterprise
Agent location: Inside The Vip Bus Station, Sunyani
GPS code: BS-0008-4777
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00
Sunday 11:00-21:30
Contact details: 240098374

Takoradi

Agent name: Aktiv Sikanekt Solutions
Agent location: Near Day By Day Pharmacy, Market Circle-Takoradi
GPS code: WS-245-1700
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-21:30
Sunday 10:00-21:00
Contact details: 501522680

Agent name: Anthaff Orbit Technology
Agent location: Near Rabito Clinic, Accra Station- Takoradi
GPS code: WS-245-4267
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-17:00
Saturday 09:00-15:00
Contact details: 501522680

Agent name: Shaqman Business Hub
Agent location: Near Carlos Jop Supermarket, Old Accra Station- Takoradi
GPS code: WS-245-7477
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-18:30
Contact details: 501522680

Agent name: Tigger Phones
Agent location: Near Effiakuma Post Office, Effiakuma
GPS code: WS-284-2334
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-17:00
Saturday 09:00-14:00
Contact details: 501522680

Tema

Agent name: Adevey 79
Agent location: Near Fitfinish Designs, Michel Camp Road
GPS code: GK-0265-9130
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 06:30-19:30
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: B Wonder Enterprise
Agent location: Opposite Sawer-Nanor And Sons Co. Ltd, Tema Comm 25
GPS code: GN-0434-1055
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-16:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Britkom Limited
Agent location: Opposite Cocobod, Tema Comm. 3
GPS code: GT-180-9174
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-21:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: C.E-Wood Processing And Trading
Agent location: Inside The Timber Market, Tema Community 1
GPS code: GT-011-2972
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-17:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Different Shades Enterprise
Agent location: Near The Starbite Restuarant, Tema Comm 7
GPS code: GT-004-3345
Operating hours: Tuesday-Sunday 08:00-20:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Jenni K. Ventures
Agent location: Inside The Top Oil Fuel Station Next To The Comm 25 Shopping Mall, Tema Comm 25
GPS code: GN-0544-4308
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-17:00
Saturday 09:00-15:00
Contact details: 508407312

Agent name: Marnicad Enterprise
Agent location: Kpone Car Park, Kpone
GPS code: GK-0013-5065
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 07:30-17:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Menokatz Business Enterprise
Agent location: Near Regrafix Printing Hub, Kpone Barrier
GPS code: GK-0185-8861
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 07:00-17:30
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: My Kids Pride Links
Agent location: Opposite Gcb Bank, Tema Comm 2
GPS code: GH-054-0285
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 06:00-20:00
Contact details: 501464723

Agent name: Sales Blazers Agency
Agent location: Adjacent Vitaltiy Health Insurance, Tema Community 11
GPS code: GT-163-7079
Operating hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-17:30
Contact details: 501464723

Ghana Reference Rate


Ghana Reference Rates 29.44%

Day to day banking

Budget

Finnfund provides US$10 million loan to First National Bank Ghana to strengthen capacity in Ghanaian financial sector


Finnfund, a Finnish development finance company and impact investor, has provided a US$ 10 million senior loan to First National Bank Ghana Ltd. One of the key objectives of Finnfund's investment is to support the Ghanaian financial sector and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and in particular, foster affordable housing in the country. According to estimations, Ghana is facing a shortage of approximately 2 million homes against a population of 30 million.

First National Bank Ghana (FNB Ghana) recently acquired GHL Bank, which is one of the market leaders in the Ghanaian mortgage market and the only lender serving all segments of the market.

The loan is part of a debt package which is syndicated by DEG, a German development financier.

"The recent acquisition of GHL Bank positions FNB Ghana strongly to utilise this debt package to achieve both Finnfund's investment objectives and FNB Ghana's strategy to scale home ownership in the country," said Dominic Adu, FNB Ghana CEO.

"Particularly now, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, we want to strengthen Ghanaian financial sector. This debt package provides additional capacity to FNB Ghana to accelerate the development of the mortgage market in the country," said Senior Investment Manager Jussi Ahonen.

More information:
Senior Investment Manager Jussi Ahonen, tel. +358 50 566 4653, jussi.ahonen@finnfund.fi
Communications Manager Kirsi Pere, tel. +358 40 620 9767, kirsi.pere@finnfund.fi
Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs Delali Dzidzienyo, tel +233501553471 DDzidzienyo@firstnationalbank.com.gh

Finnfund is a Finnish development financier and professional impact investor. We build a sustainable world by investing in responsible and profitable businesses in developing countries. Each year we invest 200-250 million euros in 20-30 projects, emphasising renewable energy, sustainable forestry, sustainable agriculture and financial institutions. Today Finnfund's investments and commitments total about 957 million euros, half of them in Africa. The company has about 90 employees. For more information, please visit Finnfund: Financial institutions

First National Bank is a subsidiary of FirstRand Group of South Africa one of the biggest financial institutions in Africa with a full banking presence in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and Tanzania. First National Bank has 523 employees, 11 branches and 12 Agency Banking locations in Accra, Tema, Kumasi and Takoradi. For more information, please visit www.firstnationalbank.com.gh

Mortgages in Ghana - the myths and the facts


If you are renting now, buying a home could be a better financial decision. Of course, that depends on several factors such as; where you live, how much you pay now as rent, an available fit-for-purpose house you can afford, current mortgage interest rates and your aspirations.
Taking your first steps towards home ownership - and getting a foot on the property ladder - can be an exciting journey. Kojo Addo-Kufuor, Executive Head of Home Loans at First National Bank Ghana explained that apart from the financial aspect, it is also important that you're armed with information - and the right information at that - before you start your journey to homeownership.
"While it is important to do your research during the home-buying process, you must not believe everything you hear.", he says. You could do with all the help to make an outright purchase, or get a loan to buy that land, build that house or buy out that cozy property in that estate you've been eying for some time.
Contrary to what you may have heard, getting a mortgage does not require perfect credit or a large down payment. It is however safe to say you should get your finances in order before you start house hunting or talking to lenders.
Kojo Addo-Kufuor, in this piece, helps you split the assumptions, untruths and the gaps in the public knowledge on acquiring a home loan.

Mortgages are the preserve of the elderly and fulfilled

Many people in their 20s and 30s think of home ownership as a distant prospect; this is not exactly the case. Shared concerns and experience have shown that young people see the deposit as the biggest obstacle to getting on the ladder. It is not that terrible a prospect. You can now get a home loan offer of up to 100% property's value if you are resident in Ghana and up to 70% if you are non-resident. This means it is possible to buy a house without making any down payment at all.
First National Bank's innovative First Time Buyer home loan product is best suited for young professionals or executives who have just graduated into their first jobs, and/or supplemented by other revenue lines.
Such young professionals or executives could easily get to translate their monthly rent into monthly mortgage repayments towards the purchase of their own property. In fact, over 60% of the home loan client base are below age 45.
It's also important to consider that with your mortgage repayments, you're adding to the equity you own in the property with each instalment paid, whereas this is not the case when you pay rent as a tenant.

You can only get a mortgage from your bank

The truth is lots of people believe that their existing bank is the one and only place to go when it's time to think about a mortgage.
That is probably because your bank will regularly send advertising material on what they can offer relatively along with preferential rates. It however makes sense to look around some more. The banking industry in Ghana is quite diversified, and banks are adding on to their portfolio with the right partnerships. First National Bank after merging with the erstwhile GHL Bank, has enhanced its home loan portfolio to serve many more Ghanaians with products which hitherto wasn't accessible. If you are a salaried worker, you can access the broad suite of regular home loans. If you are a business owner or have multiple revenue streams, the innovative Save-To-Own home loan is best suited; just by demonstrating your ability to repay with a monthly deposit into an account for a year or two and then you have a home loan.

You need to have a perfect credit rating to get a mortgage

It's obvious that you'll struggle to get a mortgage with a bad credit history. The assessment of your application goes beyond that. Your credit history and your current ability to settle such gaps could be considered in the process. Speak to a mortgage advisor at First National Bank Ghana. These people help you make the right choices for a home loan based on your responses to some background questions and then guide you appropriately through the process.

The best mortgage deal is one with the lowest interest rate

It's certainly right to think of the interest rate as how much your mortgage actually 'costs', as this is what you pay to have your loan, on top of the equity you're accruing in your property. But that's not to say you should assume that the lowest interest rate means the cheapest mortgage.

Only full time salaried workers get mortgages in Ghana

This is a common misconception that lenders see anyone not in a full-time formal job as a risk. With the rise in freelancing, entrepreneurs, small business owners, side hustle enthusiasts, flexible and contract working in the Ghana, banks like First National Bank Ghana take a much more individualistic approach when it comes to assessing people's credit and underwriting situations. There's every chance you can qualify for your home loan application provided your income is stable and sufficient for a comfortable repayment plan.

While there are plenty of mortgage misconceptions floating around these days, from how hard it may be to qualify to how much you should put down, it's important to learn the facts and how they apply to you. The truth is, getting a mortgage is much easier than you may think. If you need financing to buy a home, talk to First National Bank Ghana's. Not doing so could delay homeownership, and the benefits you could gain by years.

First National Bank Ghana acquires GHL Bank


Accra, Ghana - 5th May 2020 - First National Bank Ghana, is pleased to announce that it has acquired hundred percent of GHL Bank. Effective 4th May 2020, GHL Bank will become a subsidiary of First National Bank Ghana.

First National Bank Ghana Limited is a 100% subsidiary of the FirstRand Group, the largest financial institution group, as measured by market capitalization, in Africa. GHL Bank will become a subsidiary of First National Bank Ghana.

The transaction has been approved by the boards of the two banks and has received the required regulatory approvals from the Bank of Ghana and the South African Reserve Bank.

Says Richard Hudson, Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank Ghana: "Plans are well under way to merge the operations of the two banks. We further believe that this merger will demonstrate and further cement our commitment to the Ghanaian market. We recognize that the economy is under a lot of pressure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic but we remain excited about the future of banking in Ghana."

Customers of both banks are being advised to continue doing business with their current bankers (i.e. either First National Bank or GHL Bank).

New developments will be communicated in due course.

First National Bank Ghana launches first-ever Cash Rewards for card swipes


First National Bank Ghana Limited is delighted to announce the launch of the first-ever cash rewards programme in Ghana that rewards customers for everyday non-cash transactions. Cardholders who use their Visa debit cards to make purchases (transaction on POS machines and online card purchases) will earn back a percentage of the transaction amount.

"We fully support government's agenda to turn the Ghanaian economy into a cash-less economy where people transact easily with electronic cards," says Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana. "We've done this in several other markets in Africa - from South Africa to Zambia and Namiba. The drive to a cash-lite agenda comes more easily than any other bank in the country because it is in our DNA and is at the heart of our strategy to become the most helpful and innovative bank in Ghana."

With the new cash rewards offering, First National Bank Ghana will pay back a percentage of whatever amount a customer purchases using their Visa debit card (swipes or spends at a POS machine or online purchases) each month. ATM transactions are not eligible for the cash rewards programme.

"Imagine you go to a home appliances shop to buy a fridge or a TV set and use your First National Bank Visa debit card to pay GH¢5,000 for the entire transaction. We, at First National Bank, will pay back to you a percentage of the transaction value into your Savings Pocket as a reward for using your card and by so doing encourage others to keep using their Visa debit cards," says Mrs Annobil-Acquah.

"This is not a promotion. It's a lifestyle we want to seriously encourage as part of our strategy to push the government's cash-lite agenda. It doesn't matter where

you swipe, the machine you swipe on or where in the world you swipe. As long it's you have a Gold or Platinum Visa debit card issued by First National Bank Ghana, you will get your cash reward."

Other transactions that are eligible for the cash reward programme include online purchases, POS payments in restaurants and supermarkets anywhere in the world and transactions on electronic payment platforms like ExpressPay.

According to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Payment Systems Oversight Annual Report, about 9.4 million cards were issued by banks in Ghana in 2016 alone. The total volume of card transactions in 2016 was about 54.3 million, amounting to GH¢14.2 billion in total value.

The management of First National Bank Ghana are hoping to use the reward programme to increase both the number of electronic payments cards and the volume of card transactions.

"We are of the view that promoting a cashless economy is prerequisite for attaining the objective of increasing financial inclusion," says Delali Dzidzienyo, Head, Marketing and Corporate Affairs at First National Bank Ghana. "Using our Gold and Platinum Visa debit cards provides many benefits to our customers - including convenience, security and the ability to track one's spending. On top of these benefits, we are saying we'd pay you for using our cards. What could be better than that?"


For more information contact:
Delali Dzidzienyo- Head, Marketing and Corporate Affairs
Tel: 050155347
Email: ddzidzienyo@firstnationalbank.com.gh

New Minimum Cap Requirement


First National Bank Ghana, confirms that its parent FirstRand Limited will meet Bank of Ghana's new minimum capital requirement of Four Hundred Million Ghana Cedis (GHC400,000,000).

"First National Bank is committed to serving the needs of our customers in Ghana" said Richard Hudson, CEO of First National Bank Ghana Limited.

First National Bank, recently crowned the best emerging brand by the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG), is determined to bring its reputation of innovation and superior digital products to its customers in Ghana.

The bank started operations in Ghana some three years ago and offers retail, business, corporate and investment banking services. It currently operates seven branches and seventeen ATMs all in the Greater Accra region but has plans to expand further.

Richard Hudson
CEO, First National Bank Ghana

First National Bank delivers first class digital banking experience


22 September 2017 - Toma Imirhe and Elorm Desewu examine how one of the latest banks to enter the Ghanaian market is taking a profoundly different approach which stands to change the very nature of bank-customer relationships in the country.

Every bank claims to be different from its counterparts but, in truth, few really are. Finally however, a new generation bank has arrived in Ghana that actually thinks and operates differently from the rest. Quite simply, First National Bank is set to change the landscape of banking in Ghana.

First National Bank's convenient and secure digital banking channels are raising the standards to unprecedented levels in this country.

To be sure most banks have some form of digital banking offering in Ghana but the big differentiator for First National Bank is that it places digital banking at the core of its business whereas its older counterparts offer digital banking as an extension of the traditional banking model they have offered for years. At First National Bank traditional banking delivery channels are merely an additional means for customers to receive their financial products and services.

This means First National Bank's customers can do their financial transactions almost entirely from the comfort of their homes or offices, no matter how sophisticated those transactions are, simply using their laptops or their mobile phones. Indeed the strong penetration rate of mobile telephony in Ghana, and to a lesser extent, movable laptop computers, has set the foundation for First National Bank to offer digital banking to just about everybody. It certainly has extended First National Bank's reach well beyond its branch network.

"When we launched First National Bank we took the approach of driving a mobile first strategy" explains Richard Hudson, the Chief Executive of the bank. "We understood that customers are likely to own and use mobile devices so we had to give them access to banking on these devices, thereby placing customer convenience first."

This fits in perfectly with the bank's overall strategy of being first and foremost a transactional bank, offering the most convenient medium for customers to execute their financial transactions, and then providing financial intermediation for those customers who are in need.

Using digital, rather than traditional, banking to do this offers customers a whole new world of convenience. Importantly, customers have complete control over their accounts and have real-time, online information about their accounts at their fingertips, 24 hours a day.

"We place great emphasis on introducing innovative solutions that directly meet our customers' needs," asserts Richard Hudson, "whether it's providing cutting edge mobile payments solutions or enabling customers to use the self-service channels. Our Online Banking platform and mobile banking app offers, we believe, the best of experiences in Ghana."

All this is achieved by deploying a range of innovative features and products that are available to all customers in Ghana.

For instance there is the Geo Payment function which allows for payments between different accounts held with the bank within 50 m, using only the geographical location of one's phone. No account details are needed and this is available on the app.

In addition, the digital channels offer clients the ability to pay third-party beneficiaries to any other bank in Ghana. GhIPPS Instant Pay is also enabled on the app and online. The scheduled payments function allows customers to schedule regular payments well in advance. The transfer function allows for the immediate transfer of funds between a customer's various accounts. There is also a global payments function which allows clients to initiate payments to external beneficiaries via SWIFT.

First National Bank's card management function gives customers the ability to activate and cancel cards themselves. Another function, for prepaid airtime purchases, allows for airtime purchases for all mobile networks in Ghana.

Customers are enabled to remain in full control of their accounts through the inContact feature both online and on the app. Real-time notifications are sent to customer by SMS or email, any time a transaction, within predetermined parameters, occurs on the account. The statements and transaction history function allows customers to view their daily transactions and request monthly statements free for up to 90 days.

In addition the 'Manage limits' function allows customers to increase or decrease their daily or monthly payment limits thereby ensuring that the customer remains in full control of their finances.

Combined, all these digital banking products and services cover almost the entire array of transaction needs of customers with the exception of securing cash directly from one's account. However, First National Bank is not only deploying ATMs at its branches but is also deploying them at an array of strategic third-party locations including major retail shopping outlets and key fuel stations in the city.

"Digital migration and innovation are central to First National Bank's strategy" asserts Richard Hudson. "We pride ourselves on our ability to solve customer angst through efficient and cost-effective digital solutions."

Instructively, First National Bank's digital banking applications are extremely popular in South Africa and across the continent, where the bank is represented through various subsidiaries. Indeed they have won several awards for their digital and electronic banking offerings - evidencing the quality of their offerings and superiority over competing products.

First National Bank's excellent and secure digital product offerings will hopefully, over time, go some way towards breaking down the reluctance to embrace digital banking in Ghana especially at the lower end of the market.

Importantly though, with digital banking being central to its product and service offering, First National Bank uses cyber security - its firewalls are all but impregnable. Verification of user name, password or fingerprints are required when accessing digital banking. Beyond the security of customer accounts in general, a one-time PIN is sent to a customer's phone or email which must be used before new, or 'out of the ordinary', digital financial transaction can be approved, giving customers peace of mind that their funds are safe at the bank.

While First National Bank has established several layers of cyber security for its digital banking customers, the customers themselves need to play a simple, but crucial role in ensuring their own security. "Our customers need to be vigilant and protect personal banking information such as username, password, card and PIN details," warns Hudson. "As a result we are also investing in customer education to ensure that our customers have the necessary information to safeguard their transactions. We urge all customers to keep up to date with the latest cyber scams and the measures that they need to take to ensure that their accounts are not compromised, all of which are available in the Security Centre of First National Bank's website."

Savings is a big feature on the bank's digital banking platforms. "The feature known as Bank Your Change (BYC) provides an opportunity for our customers to save money (as they spend). As a client you can instruct the bank to round each purchase value up to the nearest cedi and transfer the difference between the purchase amount and that amount debited into a linked Savings Pocket Account, which earns good interest. This makes savings painless, very simple and easy and it is surprising how quickly these amounts build up to something significant" Mr. Hudson explains.

"At First National Bank we believe that digital migration is the future, mainly due to changing customer needs but also due to the convergence of banking and mobile," says Hudson. "We will continue to empower our customers with functionality to bank digitally, in line with their changing needs." The digital revolution is inevitable and everyone will be enjoying the benefits of this for many years to come.

First National Bank set to lead in innovation in the banking industry


13 October 2017 - First National Bank is promising its customers some exciting times in the months ahead with its innovative products and multiple banking channels. The move the bank explained is to delight its customers and let them enjoy the first-class banking associated with it in countries that it operates.

First National Bank is a subsidiary of FirstRand Group of South Africa one of the biggest financial institutions in Africa with a full banking presence in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland Lesotho, Mo�ambique, Zambia and Tanzania. It entered the Ghanaian market about a year and half ago and has set out to drive digital banking to bring convenience and efficiency to the banking public.

Delali Dzidzienyo, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs said in an interview that the bank has "unflinching zeal to help businesses and individuals succeed. We believe digital innovation is a major conduit on this journey to meet our individual and business clients' unique needs. We will embrace this in the most relevant and convenient way". This, he explained, informed their decision to create multiple channels for the banking public so that customers can choose what best suits their interests at each point in time. He indicated that the bank's online platform offered customers a plethora of services which they could perform without visiting the banking hall.

Mr. Dzidzienyo said the bank has a good appreciation of the Ghanaian market and has banking solutions to "cater for the ever-changing needs of our business and corporate clients". He explained that the bank was leveraging off the expertise and experience of its parent company and the rich local knowledge of its team to proffer innovative solutions to customers. "We don't see banking as taking deposits and giving out loans, we see banking as growing businesses and improving lives of individuals and that is how we've tailored our products and services" the Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs emphasised.

There is a growing use of digital platforms for commerce in Ghana but Mr. Dzidzienyo noted that the key requirement here is the ease of making and receiving payments. He said as part of its innovation drive, First National Bank was going to provide individuals and businesses seamless payment and collections solutions across all channels - mobile, ATM, and online. He said the bank will also create opportunities to regularly engage with its customers to ensure that they carry them along as the bank deepens its operations in Ghana.

First National Bank's subsidiary in South Africa recently received global recognition as one of the world's most powerful banking brands, ranked 4th in the banking category of Brand Finance's Brand Strength Index (BSI) for 2017. This latest global accolade extends the international recognition of brands within the FirstRand Group, after a number of brands within the group were named in different categories of awards across Africa.

First National Bank's Geo Payment service is the new way to pay


09 October 2017 - The move to make payments simple and convenient is evident in First National Bank's Geo Payment offering. A Geo Payment is an electronic payment that enables customers of First National Bank to send and receive money when in proximity to other customers of the bank. The service allows seamless transfer of money using mobile phones, without having to add the bank details of the recipient. All that is required is for the sender and receiver to be in the same geographical vicinity. It is safe, secure and the process is authenticated by means of the banking application's existing programming interface, the bank explained.

For a transaction to occur using Geo Payment, both the payer and the beneficiary need to switch on the location settings on their phones to identify the client to be paid and then they can make payments instantly without inserting any account details. The service is available to all customers of the bank and comes at no extra cost.

The Geo Payments functionality has been used successfully in Ghana since the bank began operations about a year and half ago. It was, however, launched in 2012 by its parent company and is used extensively by its customers in South Africa and other countries where the bank operates.

The Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at First National Bank, Delali Dzidzienyo, said in an interview, that Geo Payments is "a preferred way to send money instantly and safely once the recipient is in close proximity without the laborious process of typing long account numbers". He explained that the payment is instant between the accounts of the customers. Mr. Dzidzienyo said "just the other day, a colleague and I went to a restaurant which does not accept card payments and I didn't have cash readily available. Luckily, my colleague had sufficient cash to settle the entire bill and I instantly reimbursed him by transferring money directly into his First National Bank account using Geo Payments".

"We want our customers to do whatever they want with their money without driving to our branches", Mr. Dzidzienyo noted. He explained that the bank has given its customer a plethora of payment channels for them to choose from, depending on their need at each time. "This payment option comes in handy when you need to buy or pay for something in cash but don't have it readily available at the time, or you want to send money to a colleague or a friend, you just grab your phone and Geo Pay him or her. The sender or receiver will not pay any commission for the transaction and it works within a 50 m radius. Geo Pay is just convenient and cool," he explained. First National Bank prides itself with driving digital banking so that its customers will have little or no reason to enter a banking hall.

According to Mr. Dzidzienyo, First National Bank is riding heavily on technology and innovation to deliver modern banking to the public. "We understand that consumers are more likely to own and use mobile devices and so we are only multiplying utility for the device they already have. The service is available on the bank's app for iOS and Android devices."

The parent company of the bank in South Africa is one of the biggest on the African continent and has been in existence for 179 years and is the largest bank by market capitalisation listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange - Africa's largest bourse. First National Bank is leveraging off the experience and financial muscle of its parent company to excel in Ghana.

First National Bank adjudged the most innovative African Bank


27 November 2017 - First National Bank, a division of FirstRand group, (which is the largest financial institution in Africa by market capitalisation) has been adjudged The Most Innovative African Bank at the 2017 African FinTech Awards for the second year in a row.

The African FinTech Awards recognises innovative and disruptive financial technology companies that have excelled in their sphere of business. Some of bank's achievements include becoming the first bank in Africa to offer integrated telco service, FNB Connect in 2015, which offers a First National Bank branded SIM.

Last year, the bank became the first bank in Africa to launch its own branded smartphones has sold more than 75 000 FNB-branded ConeXis smartphones in Africa.

Jacques Celliers, First National Bank group chief executive was humbled by the award. "This accolade demonstrates our consistency in creating solutions that prioritise exponential helpfulness to address the needs of our individual and business customers. For us, innovation is a journey that is rooted in customer-centricity," Celliers said.

Commenting on the award, the Chief Operations Officer at First National Bank, Vish Chetty said, "this award comes to confirm our resolve to replicate many of our innovative solutions in other subsidiaries including Ghana. As Africa's most innovative bank, we will bring our experiences in other markets to bear here in Ghana and make sure Ghanaians experience what our brand stands for - innovation."

First National Bank Ghana Limited, one of the youngest banks in the country, took the lead to introduce a new way of making payment - Geo Payment, the first of its kind in Ghana. This is an electronic payment that enables customers of bank to send and receive money when in proximity to other customers of the bank.

According to Chetty, First National Bank is relying heavily on technology and innovation to deliver modern banking to the Ghanaian public.

Hannah Annobil-Acquah appointed as Head, Retail Banking


Accra, Ghana; 9 January 2018: First National Bank has appointed Hannah Annobil-Acquah as Head of Retail Banking. Hannah brings on board a wealth of experience in retail banking, having worked in various functions in the sector for over a decade.

Prior to her appointment, Mrs. Annobil-Acquah was Head, Personal Markets at Stanbic Bank Ghana Limited where she played a key role in building the retail business of the bank and is credited with significant achievements.

She holds an MPhil Finance and Investment Analysis from the University of Cambridge, UK and a BSc. Land Economy from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. She is a fellow of the Cambridge Commonwealth Trust.

"We are excited to have Hannah join the Executive Management team of our bank. Hannah will oversee building FNB's retail functions to be a market leader while serving the needs of our customers. In her new role as Head, Retail Banking, Hannah will leverage her 15-year banking experience within the Ghanaian banking sector to grow First National Bank's retail capabilities," said Richard Hudson, Chief Executive Offcer of First National Bank.

"Her experience will assist in unlocking further value in our suite of retail offering, strategize to give our clients the FNB experience as we expand our operations to other parts of Ghana," Mr. Hudson explained.

"Leading the Retail Banking business at First National Bank Ghana is a new and exciting challenge for me. First National Bank is very well known for its unique and innovative approach to banking. There's a lot of potential to signifcantly improve the customer experience in this market and I am looking forward to the opportunities this role brings," Mrs. Annobil-Acquah concluded.

First National Bank wins Emerging Brand of the year 2017


First National Bank Ghana has been adjudged the CIMG emerging brand of the year, 2017. The award, according to CIMG, is in recognition of First National Bank's excellence in strategic marketing and brand exposure in Ghana.

The bank is known for its wide array of digital self-service offerings through their E-Channels.

Commenting on the award, the head of marketing and corporate communications, Delali Dzidzienyo said "our journey so far in Ghana has been very exciting. We are looking forward to some exciting times ahead. Our brand is very strong and we believe our presence here in Ghana will help strengthen the financial services industry. Innovation and digital inclusion are top on priority list and we will continue to give our customers market-leading solutions at very affordable prices."

This award comes just 3 years after First National Bank established its in Ghana. The bank currently operates 7 branches and 17 ATMs in Accra. It is expected to open it first branch in Kumasi by end of 2018.

First National Bank Ghana is a subsidiary of South Africa's FirstRand Group which is the largest bank by market capitalization listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange - Africa's largest bourse. First National Bank is leveraging on the experience and financial muscle of its parent company to excel in Ghana.

The bank, headquartered in South Africa, also has presence in Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia, Kenya, Angola and Tanzania

First National Bank appoints Mark Achiampong as Head of Commercial and Business Banking


18 October 2018 - First National Bank Ghana, recently crowned the emerging brand of the year 2017 by the Chartered Institutes of Marketing Ghana, has appointed Mark Yeboah Achiampong as Head of Commercial and Business Banking. Mark Achiampong has a rich and diversified banking background through a career spanning over 15 years and has extensive experience in product and segmentation development, credit risk, SME and commercial and retail banking.

Prior to his new appointment, Mr Achiampong was the General Manager - Retail Banking at the Heritage Bank Limited where he led the development and roll out the banks customer proposition for the personal and SME segment.

Mr Achiampong holds a Bachelor of Business degree in Marketing from Nanyang Technology University in Singapore.

"This is indeed a great addition to our leadership team and we are delighted that Mark accepted the challenge of leading our Commercial and Business banking unit. As a new and rapidly growing bank we believe his unique skills, understanding of the market and his experience will help us to unlock new opportunities in the business banking space" Richard Hudson, Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana, says.

"Mark is expected to help enhance our commercial and business banking capability and make it attractive to businesses in Ghana. Ultimately, our customers will benefit immensely from this move."

"This new appointment comes as a challenge to me and I am excited about joining one of the biggest banking brands on the continent," Mark Achiampong added.

"We are positioning ourselves to be very attractive to businesses. I have a very solid team and we will develop new business portfolios to add to the existing ones and make sure First National Bank becomes the pacesetter when it comes to business banking" he said. Mr Achiampong has had stints at Standard Chartered Bank, Stanbic Bank, UT Bank and Heritage Bank. At Stanbic Bank, his core focus was on Commercial Banking, where he significantly grew the commercial banking portfolio and developed new market propositions.

He worked with the Standard Chartered Bank for almost a decade where he spent significant period in the SME banking Unit.

Mark is a POJOBA and a huge Arsenal fan.

First National Bank leads discussion on Ghana's first Green Bonds


24 October 2018 - This week, First National Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Environment and other related state agencies will be holding a green bond workshop in Accra, in an effort to develop innovative solutions to finance projects with a positive social, climate and environmental impact in the Republic of Ghana. A green bond is effectively an instrument that allows for the channelling of resources towards financing projects in sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste and water treatment and access to essential needs such as housing and finance.

The Ministry is exploring the potential to develop a framework under which it can issue green and socially responsible sustainable bonds that will be designed to allow the Republic of Ghana to continue to make strides in its achievement of the Paris Climate Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

The UN Sustainable Development Goals is essentially a call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity and is an initiative that is very dear to the heart of the Government and the Ministry of Finance. The SDG, in essence, builds upon the successes of the Millennium Development Goals that was developed under the leadership of Kofi Annan, when he was UN Secretary General. The Millennium Development Goals emanated from Kofi Annan's March 2000 report "We the Peoples - The Role of the United Nations in the 21st Century", a report that has now become widely known as the Millennium Report.

Mr Samuel Akhurst, Director of Debt Management Division of the Republic of Ghana said "Sustainable bonds provide an opportunity for the Government to make progress in the action plans set out in the Millennium Report, which was established by Kofi Annan, this presents an opportunity for the Government to continue to honour his legacy and uphold its principles whilst also fulfilling its duty to the people of Ghana."

Capital Markets and investment experts from First National Bank, Rand Merchant Bank, Lion Head Global Partners and the Climate Bond Initiative will gather with the Ministry of Finance and select state agencies to identify avenues to develop the green bond market in Ghana and to unlock ESG funding, enabling the Government to continue to make progress to meet the objectives set out in the Paris Agreement, to which Ghana made history by signing alongside 170 other countries on April 22, 2016. The Paris Agreement sets the ambitious goal of limiting global warming to "well below" two degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and binds countries to the promises they made to cut greenhouse-gas emissions.

Mr. Victor Yaw Asante, Head Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking said, "the time has come for the country to explore scaling up finance for environmentally friendly development projects including infrastructure that impacts climate change and support the transition to a low carbon emission economy. We as a bank have very rich experience in this area, having arranged the Continent's first Green Bond for the IFC and City of Cape Town. We want to provide our expertise and leading position in the Africa Debt Capital Markets space to the government of Ghana."

"We have invited our team of experts to steer the discussions. We are happy Ghana is seriously considering issuing green bonds and we are happy to be part of this process. It is time we make a conscious effort in line with the rest of the world and work towards building a low-carbon future by using green bonds to finance climate friendly projects that also provide social benefits i.e. waste management, energy efficiency, clean transportation and many others." Mr. Asante added.

Green bonds are specifically earmarked capital market instruments to be used for climate and environmental projects. These bonds are typically asset-linked and backed by the issuer's balance sheet. They are used to raise funds towards projects that provide climatemitigation, adaptation and other environmentally friendly projects.

Last year, Issuers came from 37 countries, with ten new entrants including Nigeria, Argentina, Fiji, UAE, Malaysia, Lithuania and Switzerland. Currently, Africa is lagging behind in green bond issuance volume, however some progress seems to be made with the Nigerian Government issuing the Continent's first Sovereign Green Bond, as well as other Issuers on the Continent including City of Cape Town and the IFC, which RMB (the Investment Banking arm of First National Bank) acted as Arranger.

The demand for green bonds continues to outstrip supply, with large oversubscription being common place. This demand is stemming from both investors with and without green bond mandates. This instrument provides a great opportunity for Energy companies, automotive and even consumer goods and technology companies to unlock finance to make sustainability investments that also provide a social benefit. First National Bank Ghana is a subsidiary of South Africa's FirstRand Group which is the largest bank in Africa by market capitalisation listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange - Africa's largest bourse. First National Bank is leveraging off the experience and financial muscle of its parent company to excel in Ghana.

Suliyat Adeleke, Debt Capital Markets Transactor at Rand Merchant Bank (the Investment Banking arm of First National Bank) and Delali Dzidzienyo, Head Marketing and Corporate Affairs, First National Bank Ghana.

Commercial, Corporate & Investment banking is our forte


02 November 2018: First National Bank Ghana - Although First National Bank Ghana is only a few years old in Ghana, it is part of one of Africa's biggest and most accomplished banking groups, the South Africa headquartered First Rand Group, which owns Rand Merchant Bank and the First National Bank in addition to other finance houses with presence in many African countries.

Ghana marks the groups entry into West Africa for the first time although another member of the First Rand Group - Rand Merchant Bank, an investment bank - has been operating in neighboring Nigeria as RMB Nigeria. Thus, Ghana is one of the first countries in the sub region to benefit from the First Rand group's exemplary brand of corporate and investment banking. Its parent, First Rand provides banking, insurance, investment products and services to retail, commercial, corporate and public sector customers, not just in Africa but also in the UK and in India. This means First National Bank Ghana is part of a truly global banking group that is not just an industry leader across sub Saharan Africa but is also active in some of the world's main financial centres.

The extensive geographical reach which First National Bank Ghana is leveraging through its parent company is matched by the sheer financial strength that First Rand brings to bear on its operations. By the end of 2016, the First Rand Group had US$86 billion in assets, from which it made revenues last year of US$7.2 billion and gross profits of US$5.2 billion. Leveraging on the immense financial muscle, deep expertise and vast experience of its parent group, First National Bank now offers corporate Ghana the cash management, financing solutions and financial markets risk management products and services that have helped to developed corporations that are competitive in both their domestic economies and at the global level as well.

It is instructive that First National Bank South Africa has been voted the Best Business Bank in South Africa, the continent's most sophisticated economy. "We are seeking to replicate the same success and relevance here in Ghana through First National Bank" enthuses Victor Yaw Asante, head of Corporate Commercial and Investment Banking in the Ghana subsidiary.

"We are aiming to use world class products and services to support the establishment of world class businesses."

To do this First National Bank offers products and services that helps clients to manage both their cash and their financial market risks.

With regards to cash management the bank provides both generic and specially designed and branded bank accounts, cash solutions, liquidity management, payment and receipt solutions, financial reconciliation and transactional banking solutions. Add to all these, both trade finance and working capital solutions.

Importantly, all these are offered by both traditional delivery channels and also by the best in class digital channels, which offer business clients the convenience and comfort of consummating their financial transactions from anywhere they are 24/7, in real time and with complete security. Indeed, First National Bank is Ghana's first fully digital bank, having been conceptualized and established as one, rather than having transformed from a traditional commercial bank into a digital one in line with new technologies, trends and customer demands.

Pivotally, First National Bank brings with it an array of products and services designed and implemented to minimize market risks, particularly with regards to interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk. The first is of crucial importance in Ghana's high interest rate environment which makes financing cost a key element in business cost build up; the second is equally important because of the inherent volatility of the cedi's stability rate in relation to all the major international trading currencies. To this end First National offers forward and future contracts, swaps and options which can be used for various types of fixed and floating interest rate contracts and to meet forex obligations for all the major international trading currencies.

First National Bank offers customized medium to long term financing solutions for corporate Ghana through its unparalleled expertise and experience with regards to financially engineered investment banking solutions, covering both debt and equity. These solutions are available across all sectors of the Ghanaian economy but the bank is particularly outstanding in the infrastructure, real estate, commodities, transport and the oil and gas sectors. To provide the requisite financing support for customers the bank can leverage on the financial muscle of its parent group and where necessary uses its excellent reputation to organize syndicated loan financing, bringing together some of the world's most respected commercial lenders.

Most importantly, First National's corporate and investment capacities enable clients to engage in seamless cross-border trade and investment, both within the African continent and across the rest of the world, with minimized financial risk. This gives clients the opportunity to take advantage of international supply and value chains in their respective production processes and also exploit global markets for their products and services.

While sophisticated corporate banking and investment banking solutions have usually been the forte of multinational corporations active in Ghana, First National Bank has, for the first time in this country, brought such solutions within the grasp of indigenous medium sized corporations as well, thus offering them the crucial financial advantages that are key in the transformation from a medium sized local business into a large sized one profitably operating across several countries.

This is potentially a game changer.

"First National is willing and fully capable of providing the financial service backing to turn well managed indigenous businesses into world class multinationals" asserts Victor Yaw Asante. "Our parent group stands out around the world for doing this and finally we have brought our business transformational skills and capabilities here for the benefit of corporate Ghana."

The prospect of world class indigenously owned corporations operating beyond Ghana itself is an exciting one and one which is direly needed at this stage in Ghana's economic evolution. Finally, Ghana has a bank that can make it happen as First National Bank becomes the conduit through which the First Rand Group brings its world class corporate and investment banking skills and financial muscle to bear for the benefit of corporate Ghana.

First National Bank group members collectively operate 870 branches and more than 6,600 automated teller machines (ATMs) across Africa.

Are you spending thoughtlessly because it's Christmas?


This festive season, many of us may be guilty of spending without thinking, however, if you never pay attention to the money you are spending it can soon lead to real financial problems. That is why you should not surprise yourself with your expenses during this Christmas.

"Thoughtless spending contributes to financial problems," says Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank. "If consumers don't know what they have spent their money on at the end of the month, it is very unlikely that they are making positive and planned financial decisions."

Ask yourself these simple questions and save yourself from some thoughtless spending this festive season.

How much is in my account right now?

Ask yourself - how much is in your current bank account, savings account and credit card? Then consider your outstanding obligations on your home loan, personal loan and hire-purchase. Most people should have a good idea of these balances.

If you have no idea what is going on with your bank account, this a sure sign that you are not on top of your finances," says Annobil-Acquah.

Do I look at the price tag during shopping?

How often do you actually study the price tag on the item you are buying?

According to an online survey, 6% of respondents never check the price tag of an item when they make purchases and 30% sometimes check while 64% always check.

Checking the price shouldn't just be for big ticket items but also for every other thing, including the drinks, cakes, sweeties, foodstuff, cooking oil, dresses and gift items for friends and loved ones during the yuletide.

"Taking note of an item's price habitually will ensure that you are aware when the price has gone up, if there are any deals on similar consumables or if you can go without that purchase just this once. Checking the price of every item you purchase only takes a few seconds but can make a real impact on your spending at the end of the month" says Annobil-Acquah.

Am I buying items I should be saving for?

It is natural to get excited for purchases such as a new couch for your home, or the latest TV, but unfortunately this is when many people throw caution to the wind, forgetting that financial planning goes with it, Annobil- Acquah said.

For example, if you buy a couch for 10,000 cedis on credit, with an interest rate of 20% and take a year to pay it off. The very same couch will cost you 12,000 excluding additional charges. However, if you save 2,000 cedis a month for five months, you will be able to purchase it without incurring debt.

"Saving for an item will not only be cheaper but will also give you the time to shop around for a great deal, which will likely leave you with extra cash to put away for a rainy day," says Hannah Annobil-Acquah.

Am I spending without actually purchasing?

Spending without thinking is not limited to actual purchases, but other behaviors we may not be aware of. Consider such actions that could be motivated by the season: racking up banking fees because you withdraw cash often, spending hours surfing the internet or playing movies online, leaving lights and electronic gadgets on all day or giving gifts of cash and kind.

Paying attention to how and what you spend your money on from now until the first week of next year is as important as setting the stage for your continued financial freedom.

Wishing every Ghanaian a Merry Christmas and prosperous new year!!!

Ghana's budget discipline key to Cedi's performance for rest of year


-Central Bank's target of US$800-million inflows by end-March very positive for FX liquidity and price stability.

Further depreciation of Ghana's Cedi in 2019 is limited based on our outlook on key economic indicators and foreign exchange inflows this year. This expectation firmly stems from our view that we are to witness another period of discipline from the economic authorities regarding the budget deficit.

Ghana delivered a strong performance on the budget in the last two years, which attracted significant portfolio investments into the country. The deficit was reduced from 8.7% of gross domestic product in 2016 to 5.9% of GDP in 2017 and further to 3.8% last year, (rebasing may have influenced this) according to latest data release by the Ministry of Finance on 4 March 2019. While the New Patriotic Party government which came into office at the beginning of 2017 must take credit for this performance, it is also noted that this performance was under the watch of the International Monetary Fund.

The nearly US$1-billion Economic Credit Facility Programme with the Fund came to an end in December (IMF Executive Board to meet in April to appraise Ghana's performance, the 7th and 8th reviews) so this year marks a fiscal test for the Akufo-Addo government. We are confident that the government will stay within the deficit target. We expect that the new Fiscal Council, (set up by the President last year for the promotion of sustainable fiscal policies) and the enactment of a law this year capping the deficit shortfall at 5% of GDP in any given year, to underpin the restrain.

That said, we observe that for both years, the government had to sacrifice some planned expenditures to achieve the deficit targets as tax revenues underperformed. In 2018 for instance, almost 1 billion Cedis worth of spending was sacrificed as taxes missed the target by 800 million Cedis. We urge the government not to lose focus on enforcing tax compliance this year since it could greatly improve the fiscal outcome and calm a lot of nerves among the investor community. Investors are on tether hooks to see what will happen without the IMF watchdog. While this posture may slow portfolio investments in the first-half, positive budget delivery during the period is bound to convince many people to return to Ghana's bond market.

Compared with the closing rate in December 2018, the Cedi has lost over 10% to the US Dollar, 2019 year to date, trading currently around 5.51 per dollar. We note that this performance was driven largely by external developments, and on the lighter side by the wait-and-see attitude of investors in relation to the budget as to whether there would still be discipline without an IMF watch.

Talking of external environment, the US Fed's interest rate increases in 2018 and the US-China trade issues have tilted the risk-on effect in favor of developed markets. Ghana like all emerging and frontier markets has suffered from capital flights. The consequent decline in foreign exchange supply on the local market has impacted the Cedi's performance.

Ghana is targeting a budget deficit of 4.2% of GDP this year and we foresee the authorities steadily delivering on this through the year. Ghana should therefore win back the appetite of offshore investors for its bonds and stocks halfway through the year. This will culminate with the Fed's target this year to do only two interest rate increases compared with four upward adjustments in 2018. In addition to Ghana's positive trade balance, which we forecast to remain in surplus for a third year in 2019 on increased hydrocarbon production, we think the Cedi's losses to the US Dollar will be limited going forward.

Given the recent developments in exchange rate, we expect inflation numbers for February and March to reflect high pass-through effects of currency weakness before tapering off from April as the authorities take delivery of major foreign exchange supply principally through the Eurobond Programme. Ghana's inflation eased to 9% in January and we see it remaining between single digit or closely around 10% in the first half, on stable utility prices and increased foreign exchange supply.

The Central Bank is making financing arrangements to replenish its reserves with US$800-million as early as the end of March, according to various reports and government sources. Hopefully the country's final two reviews under the IMF Programme will be favourable. This will make way for the disbursement of approximately US$200-million to Ghana. A Eurobond sale, which we see happening any time after the IMF review is set to boost supply-currently the target is US$3-billion. A good performance in the cocoa sector also means a busy minor season with Ghana Cocobod ready to draw down US$300-million from its annual syndication. Increased oil production should see the country earn more foreign exchange from the commodity than a year ago- operator of Jubilee and TEN oil fields Tullow Oil Plc forecasts combined production of over 180,000 barrels per day in 2019 from 58,100 barrels per day last year. Lastly an initial draw down of US$647-million of a US$2-billion deal with China's Sinohydro Corp. for roads may start trickling in this year, which will help to beef up foreign reserves of the country.

Considering Ghana's restrictive budget, positive trade balance, single digit inflation and the expected foreign exchange inflows, we think that the Cedi's recent depreciation is short lived, and stability should return soon.

By Victor Yaw Asante, Head: Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking

Victor Yaw Asante is the Head of Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking (CCIB) at First National Bank Ghana. Victor started his career at Unilever and has held several managerial roles in leading financial institutions in Ghana and elsewhere and has covered other key markets like London, Cameroun, Cote D'Ivoire, Gambia, Botswana and Sierra Leone. Victor holds an MBA in Marketing.

Giving differently, giving better in the spirit of the season


In line with our HELP philosophy, we donated to 7 charitable organisations that are doing a fantastic job of making our communities and the world we live in a better place.

We shortlisted some of these charitable causes and organisations, whose work and contributions align almost perfectly with our CSR initiatives and our HELP philosophy.

Deserving charitable organisations were presented with an undisclosed sum of financial support. The charities are:

  • Alexis Miranda Foundation
  • Rotary Club
  • Field of Souls
  • Lifeline for Childhood Cancer
  • The JBA foundation
  • Nectar Foundation
  • Accra Psychiatric Hospital

Ghana among RMB's 2019 Top 10 Investment Destinations in Africa


Ghana remains one of the top 10 attractive investment destinations in Africa even after the worst banking crisis in its history. Studies by Rand Merchant Bank Ltd, RMB (Corporate and Investment Banking arm of FirstRand Limited) show that a growth will be driven predominantly by the hydrocarbons sector, with a continued ramping-up of oil and gas production expected.

Johannesburg-based RMB, stated in its latest annual study known as Where to Invest in Africa, "Ghana has strong growth rates focused around the oil and gas sector, while the non-oil sector growth is supported by pro-business reforms." However, Ghana dropped from fifth to ninth place in the 2019 rankings as a result of a downward review of its 2018 growth rate by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the country's needed focus on fixing weaknesses in its banking sector, says RMB analysts and co-authors of the study, Celeste Fauconnier and Neville Mandimika.

"Competing economies have shown greater improvements in both the economic and operating environment indices,'' Fauconnier and Mandimika said. "Structural strength could help Ghana attain its 2019 growth forecast.''

Ghana's Ministry of Finance predicts an economic growth rate of 7.6% this year. In April 2018, the IMF reduced the 2018 outlook from 8.9% estimated in October 2017 to 6.3%. The statistical agency will release the fourth quarter growth rate figures and provisional annual figures on April 17.

Findings from the eighth edition of the Where to Invest in Africa show that efficient infrastructure is crucial in uncovering opportunities and unlock Africa's growth potential.

According to the World Bank, the lack of efficient infrastructure shaves up to 2.6% off African average per-capita growth rate, and places a significant strain on human development. The African Development Bank's most recent estimation of infrastructure needs is between US$130 billion and US$170 billion annually, but the continent's available capital is insufficient to achieve this, says Fauconnier. She goes on to say that this shortfall presents an opportunity for businesses involved in the development or financing of infrastructural projects.

In assessing the most attractive investment environments in Africa, RMB again considered two important conditions for viable investment namely; economic activity and the operating environment.

While there were changes to this year's Top 10 ranking, the top three countries from last year - Egypt, South Africa and Morocco, have maintained their positions in terms of investment attractiveness. Egypt retained the top spot as the largest African market in gross domestic product terms, boasting the largest consumer market in the Middle East and North Africa. Its economy is diversified and receives large amounts of foreign direct investment.

"Strides have been made to improve the investment and legal business environment, and growth is forecast at 4 percent,'' Mandimika said. "The availability of hard currency to service debt and the depreciation of the Egyptian pound since its flotation in 2016, however, remain some of its challenges."

South Africa has also retained its second position. According to Fauconnier, the country is currently a hot spot for foreign direct investment, with President Cyril Ramaphosa's efforts to build a US$100 billion book of foreign and domestic investments project on track. The country's currency and capital markets remain a cut above the rest of the other African countries, she said, warning that subdued economic growth and the upcoming 2019 elections have created political divisions, which hamper policymaking.

Still ranked third, is Africa's fifth-largest market, Morocco. With a growth rate expectation of 4% over the medium term, Morocco's operating environment and investment appeal have been greatly enhanced since the "Arab Spring", the reintegration into the African Union and the accession to the Economic Community of West African States.

The report's analysis of individual African countries revealed that 11 African countries are forecasted to grow above 6%. Ethiopia is set to be the fastest-growing economy in Africa, averaging 8.2% for the next six years. The robust momentum is supported by improved macroeconomic policies and higher government investment in local industries and human capital. Private investment continues to increase after the resolution of the long-standing conflict with Eritrea. Other outperformers for similar reasons to Ethiopia are Rwanda and Côte d'Ivoire.

Certain sectors provide opportunities for long-term growth prospects. Resources will continue to play a leading role when it comes to attracting funds, particularly in the hydrocarbon, base and precious metals spheres.

"The agricultural sector will become a more enticing investment target as agro-processing increases and global food demand spikes," Mandimika said. "The all-important demographic dividend, especially the strong growth in population, urbanization and GDP per capita, also provides growth prospects."

RMB also identifies other growth opportunities. From a fiscal perspective, Africa has low levels of revenue collection and the IMF estimates that sub-Saharan Africa could potentially collect an extra 3% to 5% of GDP in tax revenues by improving collection systems and broadening the tax net.

These challenges are taking time to resolve because there was no real progress in the operating environments across board. Victor Yaw Asante, the head of Corporate, Commercial and Investment Banking at First National Bank Ghana, the local unit of RMB said, the lack of access to financing, corruption, weak governance and inadequate and efficient infrastructure remain fundamental problems of doing business in Africa.

"In Ghana for example, private-sector investment is low and it could change through more business environment reforms, increased infrastructure and financial-market development." He added.

The top five performers in terms of operating environment were Mauritius, Rwanda, Botswana, South Africa and the Seychelles. Mauritius is now in its 11th year of being the easiest business environment in Africa.

Top 10 investment attractiveness-ranked countries:

Country Key Attractiveness Indicator
1. Egypt Retained the top spot as the largest African market in gross domestic product terms, boasting the largest consumer market in the Middle East and North Africa.
2. South Africa Retained its second position as a hot spot for foreign direct investment.
3. Morocco Morocco has a growth rate expectation of 4% over the medium term, its operating environment and investment appeal have been greatly enhanced since the "Arab Spring".
4. Ethiopia Ethiopia is set to be the fastest growing economy in Africa, averaging 8.2% for the next six years - a slight normalization from the 10% average experienced over the past decade. The robust momentum is supported by improved macroeconomic policies and higher government investment in local industries and human capital.
5. Kenya Kenya delivered a diverse economy and sustained expansion in consumer demand, urbanization, EAC integration, structural reforms and infrastructural development, which include an oil pipeline, railways, ports and power generation.
6. Rwanda Rwanda is another fast-growing economy, boasting the second-best business environment. Although a small market, the government is investing heavily into its domestic industries, with a significant increase of FDI recorded over the past decade.
7. Tanzania Tanzania is expected to grow at 6.5% over the next five years. The economy is expected to overtake Kenya, supported by its resource based manufacturing, tax incentives and development of special economic zones. It battles, however, with a weak business environment.
8. Nigeria Nigeria jumped back into the Top 10 due to to improved macroeconomics, supported by recovering oil prices and production and to favorable demographics attracting FDI.
9. Ghana Ghana has strong growth rates concentrated around the oil and gas sector, while the non-oil sector growth is supported by pro-business reforms.
10. Côte d'Ivoire Côte d'Ivoire has strong growth rates, supported by large infrastructural investment, particularly in transport and energy

First National Bank will host its 4th Economic and Business Breakfast Forum on Tuesday, 26th March 2019 at Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Accra. RMB analysts and co-authors of the study, Celeste Fauconnier and Neville Mandimika, will unpack the latest findings of the Where to Invest in Africa 2019 publication, with a key focus on Ghana's economic future.

First National Bank Ghana Limited gives financial inclusion a major boost with introduction of agency banking


Accra - September 16, 2019 - The government's financial inclusion policy has received a major boost from First National Bank Ghana Limited.

In a move that is expected to greatly contribute to the reduction in Ghana's unbanked population, First National Bank Ghana Limited has announced the introduction of its agency banking initiative which has been lauded as a major success in other African countries where the bank operates. After about three years of successful operation in Ghana, the bank has made the strategic decision of introducing its agency banking service into the country to bring its innovative banking offerings to the doorsteps of as many Ghanaians as possible.

The agency banking service is part of the bank's strategic plan to expand its reach in Ghana without the need to open brick and mortar branches. Under the initiative the bank will partner with existing businesses in various communities to operate as agencies which will offer a range of banking services to customers. It is expected that the successful roll out of the agency banking service will help increase the bank's footprints across the country and provide convenient banking to existing and future customers.

"Our agency banking business is a functional and scalable model which allows us to partner with businesses across the country to deliver cash solutions to customers within their communities," the bank's Head of Retail Banking, Hannah Annobil-Acquah says. "We also believe that this new channel and customer touchpoint will enable us contribute meaningfully and positively to improving financial inclusion in Ghana."

The agency banking service adds to a number of innovative banking products from First National Bank Ghana Limited. These include its award-winning digital platforms, which enables customers to satisfy almost all their banking needs on a web browser or on the bank's mobile app, making it virtually unnecessary for them to visit a branch. First National Bank Ghana Limited, however, recognises that sometimes interfacing with a human being is inevitable. That's where its new agency banking service becomes beneficial.

"With agency banking, we are taking yet another important step towards making banking services available to Ghanaians like never before," Delali Dzidzienyo, the bank's head of marketing and corporate affairs says. "This is yet another demonstration of our commitment to placing the customer right at the centre of everything we do. Agency banking means the customer will always have quick and easy access to funds because an agent will always be very close by."

The pioneer agencies under First National Bank's agency banking initiative are in Accra and Tema and plans are far advanced for more agencies to be opened in the regional capitals before the end of the year.

First National Bank Ghana Holds Trade Workshop For Clients


First National Bank Ghana Ltd. has organized a day's workshop for its business and corporate clients to educate and share with them best practices on trade and foreign exchange.

The workshop held at the capital city's Labadi Beach Hotel, brought together about 50 companies drawn from different sectors of the economy. With the help of experts and regulators, participants were brought up to speed with recent trends in international trade, trade finance and the foreign exchange market.

The underlying changes to the environment of trade from both local and international sources have on the one hand broadened the horizon for local businesses. They have, on the other hand, created a gap of knowledge, requiring constant information so that businesses do not miss out on the ever-exciting and competitive regional and global trade opportunities.

Representatives from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority shared policies and protocols with customers, at a time when Ghana is preparing to take advantage of the elimination of most tariff barriers to trade on the continent, through the new African Continental Free Trade Area.

Being a bank that takes pride in being one of the most experienced and innovative on the continent in terms of trade finance and foreign exchange trading, the workshop was yet another avenue for First National Bank Ghana to share its rich products and tools that are fit for the participants' business aspirations. Clients had all their questions addressed in the most interactive manner and right there began to identify new opportunities in their specific industries.

First National Bank Ghana appoints Kofi Pianim as Head of Global Markets


First National Bank Ghana Limited has appointed Kofi Asare Pianim as Head of Global Markets. Mr. Pianim has a wealth of experience, spanning a period of 14 years, in global banking and markets focusing on profitable growth, regulatory and control issues as well as risk in the context of global standards.

"We are excited to have Kofi Pianim join the Executive Management team of our bank," says Richard Hudson, Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana.

"Kofi will oversee the Global Markets team at First National Bank and be responsible for defining and implementing its strategy, in line with the bank's ambition, by leveraging on its strong capabilities in foreign exchange, fixed income and structured products. In his new role as Head of Global Markets, Kofi will use his 14-year banking experience within the Ghanaian banking sector to grow First National Bank's Global Market capabilities."

Until his appointment to this new role, Mr. Pianim was the Head of Trading for Stanbic Bank Ghana Limited in their Global Markets department. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Coventry University, United Kingdom, and is the current President of ACI Financial Markets Association, a leading global trade association representing the interests of the professional financial market community. He also serves on the Ghana Fixed Income Technical Committee Board playing a part in facilitating the secondary trading of all fixed income securities and other debt capital securities.

"I am thrilled to be taking up such an appointment in a global bank which delivers innovative game-changing solutions in an area of the banking industry that is very important to FirstRand Limited and its subsidiary, First National Bank Ghana," says Kofi Asare Pianim. "I am determined to build on the gains achieved by the bank so far to ensure that my team continues to deliver on its service in the Ghanaian banking sector."

First National Bank Ghana:
A fresh breath of banking innovation, setting new standards and delighting customers


First National Bank started operating in Ghana a little less than five years ago with one major unique selling proposition: innovation. The bank promised to introduce products and services never before seen in the Ghanaian banking sector and nearly 60 months after the opening of its first branch at the Junction Mall in the east end of Accra, it is fair to ask if the bank has fulfilled its promise.

The answer from almost every one of the bank's clients would most assuredly be an emphatic 'yes'. That sort of response should not come as a surprise to even the most casual observer of the Ghanaian banking scene.

First National Bank Ghana Limited, with South Africa's FirstRand Group as its parent company, did not come to Ghana with the cacophonous bells and whistles which usually accompany many a new entrant. They started with just one small branch but a big vision to become one of the most preferred banking institutions in Ghana on the wings of a promise to become a leader in banking innovation.

That singular premier branch at the Junction Mall meant that the bank was effectively forcing itself to live up to its promise and thus one of the first signs that it was serious about innovation was the introduction of user-friendly, always-on digital platforms which made it possible for customers to engage in all sorts of banking transactions without having to step foot in a banking hall.

So long before the older banks in the country became obsessed with mobile apps and internet banking, First National Bank Ghana Limited had shown the way with technology, products and services that made it utterly unnecessary for customers to enter its single banking hall. For example, First National Bank introduced Geo Payment, the first on the market is an electronic payment system that enables its customers to send and receive money when in proximity with other customers of the bank. The service allows seamless transfer of money with a mobile phone without having to input the recipient's bank details.

"We started off with a determination to drastically reduce and if possible, eliminate, the reasons why people are compelled to drive through bumper-to-bumper traffic at great cost to productivity and the environment just to transact business in a banking hall," says Mr. Delali Dzidzienyo, head of marketing and corporate communications at First National Bank Ghana.

"I know of countless cases where serious business executives have been literally forced to drive long distances to the bank, just to sign a paper to either transfer money or receive it. Many people didn't like that and we are glad that we've been able to change that mentality, that culture. Today, many are following our lead by introducing mobile apps and internet banking. In 2020, there are a lot of innovations in store for customers, which we hope will strengthen our position as the most innovative bank in Ghana today."

One of these innovations is First National Bank's quest to use its world-class, tried and tested agency banking model to support the Ghana government's financial inclusion drive, bringing banking services to the doorsteps of as many Ghanaians as possible. The model is somehow an extension of the bank's philosophy to operate and maintain as few brick and mortar facilities as possible by using digital technology and community banking agents to enable people who otherwise would be keeping cash under their beds to access affordable and helpful banking services.

Under the initiative, the bank will partner with existing businesses in various communities to set up agencies which will offer a range of banking services to customers. It is expected that the successful roll-out of the agency banking service will help increase the bank's footprints across the country and provide convenient banking to existing and future customers. These agencies will provide almost all of the suite of services customers may want to access from any of the bank's seven branches in the Accra-Tema metropolis - that is if they ever feel the need to go into a branch. The objective is to expand the bank's reach in Ghana and bring it world-class services to the doorsteps of Ghanaians without having to open too many brick and mortar branches.

First National Bank Ghana Limited is also set to enable the contactless feature on its POS machines which are being used by retailers across the country. These machines use state of the art technology which make it unnecessary for customers to hand over their cards to a vendor before they enter their personal identification numbers (PINs) to conclude transactions.

To enable this feature the bank will in the next few weeks start issuing contactless banking cards, which make it possible for transactions to be concluded by simply tapping the card on a contactless-enabled machine and then proceeding to enter their PINs.

"Contactless payments offer substantial benefits in an era where consumers and retailers want to avoid long queues and the risk of fraud or card theft," says Hannah Annobil-Acquah, First National Bank's Head of Retail Banking.

"We are creating an enabling safe ecosystem for retailers to match consumer appetite by enabling and promoting the contactless acceptance footprint in the retail environment. And that's a very useful and helpful 'first' from First National Bank."

However, that's not all.

Perhaps, First National Bank's most important contribution to the Ghanaian banking and financial services sector in 2020 could be its reported moves to enter the mortgage market to help Ghanaians deal with one of the biggest life challenges in the country: providing a roof over one's head.

The details of the bank's proposals to enter the mortgage market are not entirely clear and the bank's officials are often tight-lipped when the issue is raised, apparently because they need regulatory approval to tie the loose ends. It is only then that the full outlines of what the bank really has in store for Ghanaians will be made clear.

But even before that happens, few will disagree that it is a little more than ironic that a bank which is staking its future on reducing dependence on brick and mortar structures also sees potential in helping Ghanaians to invest in brick and mortar structures they can call home. It's ironic. But it's also innovative thinking. And that's the First National Bank way, isn't it?

'Where to Invest in Africa' is returning to its roots


GHANA RISES 3 PLACES TO NUMBER 6 AS SOUTH AFRICA FALLS TO THIRD PLACE IN 2020 RMB WHERE TO INVEST IN AFRICA REPORT.

Rand Merchant Bank's ninth edition of Where to Invest in Africa is returning to its roots - the sectors we believe are key to unlocking the continent's growth potential.

This year, co-authors Celeste Fauconnier, Neville Mandimika and Nema Ramkhelawan-Bhana delve deeper into the traditional and alternative sectors driving African economies to reach ever-higher levels of economic growth. "We believe that the six sectors we've featured this year are key to inclusive growth across the continent," says Fauconnier.

Contributor, Daniel Kavishe, adds that under the resources banner, "mining, energy and agriculture all offer vast opportunities for the savvy investor." Turning to retail, Fauconnier says that it's all about playing the long game. "While the middle class is not growing as fast as expected, the potential is still evident in the numbers."

On the topic of finance, Ramkhelawan-Bhana stresses that "financial services play a critical role in securing Africa's future. Without sustainable funding and commercial credit, project development in key areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and energy projects remain concepts rather than reality"; she adds that "the ICT sector and internet access in particular, long-viewed as a luxury in Africa, are fast becoming crucial to inclusive economies."

According to Fauconnier and contributor Chris Mabanga, manufacturing is set to take centre stage as the continent, with its advantage of an abundance of natural resources, is focusing on turning its raw materials into manufactured goods to boost exports and reduce reliance on imports. And, finally, Mandimika highlights that construction activity is surging as countries attempt to bridge the funding chasm between what's needed and what's actually being spent.

GHANA

Ghana has edged closer to a coveted top 5 position this year, rising three places to number six in RMB's Investment Attractiveness rankings. The country's growth outlook is strong and concentrated around the oil and gas sector. Non-oil growth is forecast to pick up again, supported by pro-business reforms and a steady improvement in power supply. Political tability will remain underpinned by Ghana's strong democratic credentials.

Ghana's mining industry was worth US$5.9bn in 2019, the third highest in Africa, and grew at 6.3% y/y, outshining many of its continental peers in the resources sector. Ghana also has Africa's highest ranking in the Fitch Solutions mining risk/return reward index, which assesses potential returns on investment, both in terms of industry size and forecast growth and broader country characteristics like the regulatory environment.

While the Ghanaian retail sector is predominantly still informal, there are some major malls, particularly in Accra. However, the Accra retail market is close to saturation, and new developments will be opening in a challenging economic environment. In the short to medium term, retail development is likely to focus on secondary cities such as Takoradi and Kumasi.

Ghana's manufacturing sector is ranked the eighth strongest on the continent is characterised by its small market size but high competitiveness.

In all of this, Ghana remains one of the few West African countries bucking the downward growth trend by continuing to offer positive examples of economic recovery by placing emphasis on diversifying its economy. Despite the recent deterioration in its operating environment rankings, Ghana remains one of the easier business environments in Africa. Growth over the medium term is expected to average 6.2%, which is supportive of the greater macroeconomic fundamentals.

However, Ghana's public debt burden (and public arrears in the local sector) requires considerable fiscal consolidation to correct. The country's commodity dependency is increasing, with oil, gold and cocoa being the main exports, which leaves Ghana heavily exposed to international price trends. The risks of slowdown in global growth that is aggravated by persistent trade tensions is credible and worth noting.

#RealHelp to cushion customers impacted by COVID-19


Accra, April 14, 2020 - First National Bank Ghana Limited is introducing a raft of relief packages to help both individual and corporate customers against the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Long before the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Ghana, many analysts had predicted that the pandemic would adversely impact Ghanaian businesses and therefore, individual incomes and the overall national economy," says Richard Hudson, CEO of First National Bank Ghana.

"We appreciate that in these tough times, we need to stand together with our customers by offering them the #RealHelp they need to make it through these tough economic times."

Under the #RealHelp initiative, First National Bank Ghana Limited is offering at least a 2% interest rate cut on loans to all existing customers from 01 April 2020 for the tenor of all Ghana-cedi denominated loan facilities. To clarify further, Richard Hudson explained that all cedi denominated loans at First National Bank Ghana Limited are linked to the Ghana Reference Rate (GRR) which is published monthly on the first Wednesday of every month. Loans to customers are quoted at the GRR plus a margin. With the recently announced drop in the MPC rate, the GRR dropped by 1.20% and the bank then slashed its margin by a further 1% across all cedi related loans, bringing the total reduction to 2.20%.

Customers have also been given an option to apply for repayment holidays, where a temporary moratorium will be placed on the loan repayments for up to six months. This is expected to give customers some leeway to reorganise their finances which may be negatively affected by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Customers can apply for the repayment holiday on the First National Bank app or by using the quick code *877# on its Cellphone Banking platform.

"The entire process has been digitized so there's absolutely no paperwork and that also means response times will be faster," Mr. Hudson says. "We believe these interventions will assist customers who have demonstrated sound banking behaviour, such as consistently honouring their repayments to the bank before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Head, Marketing and Corporate Affairs at First National Bank Ghana, Delali Dzidzienyo adds: "With these initiatives, we want to consolidate our position as the most helpful bank in Ghana. We are offering our customers a real helping hand in a very difficult time as many businesses will not perform as well as they had hoped this year; and many individuals will not earn the monthly incomes that they normally expect. The #RealHelp we are offering is not a one-size-fits-all solution but is tailored to each customer's unique situation which ensures that we give them the necessary help they that need in this particular circumstance."

First National Bank launches ASPIRE against COVID-19 in Ghana


First National Bank Ghana has launched ASPIRE ( Accelerated Support for Pandemic Intervention and Relief Effort ) to assist the government and its stakeholders in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

AASPIRE is a rapid response fund to address the critical and immediate health care needs in Ghana. Richard Hudson, CEO of First National Bank Ghana, explains that ASPIRE will help increase COVID-19 critical test and trace capacity with focus on supporting local medical innovators and entrepreneurs. "Through ASPIRE we are collaborating with these proven local innovators to provide the needed apparatus for testing availability, ventilators and front-line protective cover," commented Hudson.

The initiative is Ghana's version of the special initiative rolled out by First National Bank's parent company, the FirstRand Group in South Africa - SPIRE (South African Pandemic Intervention and Relief Effort).

With GHS200,000 ASPIRE anchor funding, First National Bank Ghana will procure test kits with support from the FirstRand Group for delivery to primary treatment centres. The fund will also support the setup of a 6-month insurance package for selected staff at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research and the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, and fund the production of home-made hand washing machines and ventilators.

"This is just the beginning of what we believe we can do to help combat the impact of COVID-19. Supporting the healthcare system is where it matters most, and the ASPIRE fund has been launched to help curtail the spread of the pandemic across the country.", says Delali Dzidzienyo, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at First National Bank Ghana.

Before the launch of ASPIRE, First National Bank Ghana launched relief packages to help both individual and corporate customers against the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the #RealHelp initiative, the bank offered at least a 2% interest rate cut on loans to all existing customers from 1 April 2020 for the tenor of all Ghana-cedi denominated loan facilities. Customers have also been given an option to apply for repayment holidays, where a temporary moratorium will be placed on the loan repayments for up to six months.

These initiatives aim to give customers some leeway to reorganize their finances which may have been negatively affected by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

These relief offers can be applied for on the First National Bank app or by using the Quick Code *877# to apply through Cellphone banking. Ends.

Finnfund provides US$10 million loan to First National Bank Ghana


Finnfund provides US$10 million loan to First National Bank Ghana to strengthen capacity in Ghanaian financial sector

Accra, Ghana - 15 May 2020 - Finnfund, a Finnish development finance company, has provided a US$10 million senior loan to First National Bank Ghana Ltd. One of the key objectives of Finnfund's investment is to support the Ghanaian financial sector, and in particular, foster affordable housing in the country. According to estimations, Ghana is facing a shortage of approximately 2 million homes against a population of 30 million.

First National Bank Ghana (FNB Ghana) recently acquired GHL Bank, which is the market leader in the Ghanaian mortgage market and the only lender serving all segments of the market.

The loan is part of a debt package which is syndicated by DEG, a German development financier.

"The recent acquisition of GHL Bank positions FNB Ghana strongly to utilise this debt package to achieve both Finnfund's investment objectives and FNB Ghana's strategy to scale home ownership in the country," said Richard Hudson, FNB Ghana CEO.

"Particularly now, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, we want to strengthen Ghanaian financial sector. This debt package provides additional capacity to FNB Ghana to accelerate the development of the mortgage market in the country," said Senior Investment Manager Jussi Ahonen.

More information:
Senior Investment Manager Jussi Ahonen, tel. +358 50 566 4653, jussi.ahonen(a)finnfund.fi
Communications Manager Kirsi Pere, tel. +358 40 620 9767, kirsi.pere(a)finnfund.fi
Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs Delali Dzidzienyo, tel +233501553471 DDzidzienyo@firstnationalbank.com.gh

Finnfund is a Finnish development financier and professional impact investor. We build a sustainable world by investing in responsible and profitable businesses in developing countries. Each year we invest €200 to €250 million in 20 to 30 projects, emphasising renewable energy, sustainable forestry, sustainable agriculture and financial institutions. Today Finnfund's investments and commitments total about 957 million euros, half of them in Africa. The company has 83 employees.

For more information, please visit www.finnfund.fi

First National Bank is a subsidiary of FirstRand Group of South Africa one of the biggest financial institutions in Africa with a full banking presence in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and Tanzania. First National Bank has 523 employees, 11 branches and 8 agency banking locations in Accra, Tema, Kumasi and Takoradi.

First National Bank Ghana expands reach with more Agency Plus partners


20th August 2020 - Accra, First National Bank Ghana has announced the introduction of five new Agency Plus partners in Accra, extending accessibility of its products and services to the growing customer base.

The new Agency Plus partners are St. Tito Clothing, Topmed Pharmacy, MegaMax Electronics, Healthaid Pharmacy and Kaby Chemists. These bring the total number of First National Bank's agency partners in Accra to twelve.

Lauded as a major success in all the countries First National Bank operates in, the bank uses the agency concept to partner with existing businesses in various communities to operate as outlets which offer a range of banking services to customers on behalf of the bank. First National Bank Ghana has adopted the initiative as part of its strategic plan to take its innovative offerings to the doorsteps of as many Ghanaians as possible without the need to open owned brick and mortar branches.

Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail at First National Bank explains that the bank is effectively activating plans to roll out more Agency Plus partners to help increase its footprints across the country and provide convenient banking to existing and future customers.

"We are in exciting times at First National Bank Ghana. Our Agency Plus initiative is a functional and scalable model which allows us to deliver cash solutions to our customers through existing businesses within their own communities. We believe that these additional customer touchpoints will enable us contribute meaningfully and positively to improving financial inclusion in Ghana", says Hannah Annobil-Acquah.

First National Bank Ghana's Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Delali Dzidzienyo adds: "This is yet another demonstration of our commitment to placing the customer right at the centre of everything we do. Our customers will always have quick and easy access to funds because an agent will always be very close by. With agency banking, we are taking yet another important step towards bridging the gap between banked and unbanked Ghanaians like never before."

More information on the location of all First National Bank's Agency Plus partners is available on the bank's website.

First National Bank to host Maiden Real Estate Developers Forum


First National Bank Ghana is set to host its first ever Developers Forum in Ghana on Thursday 6th August 2020. It will be a gathering with real estate developers, construction experts and landowners to discuss the bank's enhanced home loan portfolio, following its recent merger with GHL Bank.

The event is one of the positive experiences that have been carried into the merged entity from the erstwhile GHL Bank, which used to organize the Developers Forum biannually as part of efforts to grow its relationships with real estate developers while gathering ideas to help meet the nation's increasing housing demands.

"Real Estate Developers are valuable stakeholders in our business," says Kojo Addo-Kufuor, Executive Head of Home Loans at First National Bank. "By staying in contact with them, we are able to work together to help address the country's housing deficit which is estimated around 2million. This Developers Forum offers us a fine opportunity to introduce the leadership of our enhanced Home Loans team, share the refined processes and discuss support areas to scale up the provision of homes to as many Ghanaians as possible."

At the upcoming Developers Forum, the team from First National Bank will be sharing value propositions for retail and commercial banking, investments and forex trade as well as the home loan offering and processes, all of which are relevant to developers and service providers within the ecosystem.

Delali Dzidzienyo, Head of Marketing and corporate affairs at First National Bank says: "Now more than ever, we need to find innovative ways of sharing trends to enhance and facilitate the supply of properties to meet the increasing demand. The Covid-19 pandemic has been hard-hitting, but we need to highlight the potential opportunities for local developers to identify alternative practical solutions for the housing deficit in Ghana. This session will be a forum to discuss ways we can collaborate better, grow our businesses together and welcome our partners to the First National Bank family."

The free-to-participate virtual event will be accessible to only real estate developers, land retailers, contractors and home builders, manufacturers and retailers of building materials as well as suppliers of ancillary home supplies. Interested participants will need to register via any of the First National Bank social media pages for a confirmation of slot.

First National Bank Ghana secures $85M funding from DEG


DEG has given a total of USD 85 million long-term loan facility to First National Bank Ghana. This is part of its support for financial institutions to widen the access to credit for SMEs and businesses within the real estate value chain in developing countries who may have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

FNBG offers the full spectrum of banking services to retail and commercial clients. Having acquired and merged with the erstwhile GHL Bank, leading provider of private real estate finance in Ghana, this funding is timely to expanding the bank's asset portfolio.

Petra Kotte, Head of division Financial Institutions and German Business at DEG explained that this funding is a clear signal of DEG's confidence in Ghana's economic development. "With our commitment in Ghana, we are strengthening the real estate sector for private households. We also support SMEs, which are important employers and the driving force behind the private sector, especially in the current situation.", he said.

Dominic Adu, CEO of First National Bank expressed his appreciation for the funding by DEG and explained that this will enable First National Bank Ghana to scale up its provision of financial supports and further enhance the commercialization of infrastructure across the country. "Indeed, the world at large is still dealing with the impact of the pandemic, but we have seen a tremendous rise in SMEs as well as the housing and infrastructure industry over the past few years in Ghana. We cannot downplay the importance of scaling up the available financial support that will help minimize the impact of the pandemic on these businesses. That is why we will capitalize on funding from institutions like the DEG to engineer the expansion of real estate developments and sustainability of business operations in Ghana", Dominic emphasized.

FNBG was founded in 2015 with a strong digital banking focus and has been developing successfully ever since. With over 500 employees in Ghana and an extended branch network across Greater Accra, Ashanti and Western Region, the bank is expected to run a profitable operation with its sustainable business model in the coming years.

FNBG is a wholly-owned subsidiary of South Africa's FirstRand Bank (FRB), one of the country's leading financial institutions. DEG has been supporting FirstRand Bank since 2002. Last year, it provided FRB with a long-term loan of USD 50 million, its largest financing project in Africa to date

First National Bank introduces new package for SMEs


First National Bank Ghana, a subsidiary of the FirstRand Group of South Africa, has announced the introduction of a tailored package for small and medium-scale enterprises in Ghana. The package is intended to help address some major challenges that hinder the growth of SMEs in the country.

With this new package, small and medium corporates can start, run and grow their businesses with special transactional capabilities that give them 24/7 access to First National Bank's award-winning enterprise platform, automated deposit terminals, email statements, forex and trade services, customized credit facilities and a daily cash pick up service.

Mark Achiampong, First National Bank's Head of Commercial and Business Banking says the new SME offering is hinged on three key pillars-Start, Run and Grow, is packed with a suite of business toolkits as well as advisory services for small and medium businesses. He said this is timely considering the challenges impacting the SME sector due to the Covid-19 pandemic. "Our new business Gold cheque account is versatile, with hassle-free options that allow you to perform your daily transactions and are suited to small medium enterprises (SME's)," Mr. Achiampong said.

"Interest is paid on all balance held in your Gold business account irrespective of the amount. You earn a free Gold card and access to all our merchant services at a flat monthly fee. There is also an added value to your business if you sign up as one of our Agency Plus partners-a convenient way of partnering FNB Ghana to use your shop to provide banking services in your neighbourhood for a commission".

On the bank's round-the-clock online banking service, Mr. Achiampong explained that it is an innovative, web-based offering which gives customers secure, controlled, real-time access to accounts and online banking functionality. "We have automated deposit terminals in all our 11 branches giving you 24/7 access to all our banking services, including deposits," he says. "Trade services like global payments can be carried out on our robust digital platform. You can monitor your business activity in real time and reduce internal fraud with FREE inContact Pro, and Email Statements. Details of your business transactions and email statements are all delivered to your inbox for free."

Mr. Achiampong also pointed out that First National Bank's SME package also allows SMEs to apply for an overdraft or business loan quickly and easily.

Interested businesses can access this package by visiting any of the First National Bank Ghana branches in Accra, Tema, Kumasi and Takoradi or alternatively through www.firstnationalbank.com.gh for further assistance.

First National Bank Ghana is a subsidiary of South Africa's FirstRand Group which is the largest bank by market capitalisation listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange - Africa's largest bourse. First National Bank is leveraging on the experience and financial muscle of its parent company to excel in Ghana.

First National Bank renews commitment to help address housing needs in Ghana


August 12, 2020, Accra - First National Bank has reassured Ghanaians of its determination to help address the housing needs in the country, even in the climate of uncertainty generated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Executive Head of Home Loans at First National Bank Kojo Addo-Kufuor, gave the assurance during the maiden virtual Property Developers Forum with real estate developers from all over the country.

He said the bank has introduced an enhanced home loans portfolio with a dedicated team and a robust platform to serve the increasing number of Ghanaians discovering the benefits of mortgages.

"Housing is a universal need," he told the developers. "People need shelter regardless of the situation they find themselves in. So, whether Covid or no Covid, the demands haven't changed. That is why keeping the relationship with developers and agents is a very important activity on our calendar every year."

Mr. Addo-Kufuor also revealed that First National Bank has proactively reengineered its team and systems to drive efficiency and speed in the processing of mortgage applications. "With the support from other business units like the Retail, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Institutional Banking, coupled with the positive relationship with real estate developers and agents, we are better placed to help meet the growing demands for home ownership," he said.

The Secretary of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Mr. Samuel Amegayibor, congratulated First National Bank on the successful acquisition and subsequent merger with GHL Bank and expressed the association's readiness to support the renewed entity. "On behalf of the Executive Council of GREDA, we wish to congratulate First National Bank Ghana for the merger and for hosting the first virtual Property Developers Forum," Mr. Amegayibor said. "We were not sure of what to expect but this has been a great meeting overall. GREDA is behind you and the entire membership of GREDA will maintain ties with First National Bank Ghana."

If you are a player in the real estate industry and would want to engage First National Bank, please reach out to Mawuena (+233 2092 794 59) or Mantebea (+233 2427 481 62) for assistance.

First National Bank and Hollard Insurance partner to serve increasing demand for insurance


Accra - 01 October 2020 - First National Bank Ghana and Hollard Insurance Ghana have announced an exclusive long-term bancassurance partnership in Ghana to jointly serve the fast-growing demand for insurance products and services.

Current and future customers of First National Bank Ghana can sign up for several of Hollard Insurance's general insurance products, including Homeowners Insurance, Travel Insurance and Vehicle and Asset Insurance at any of the bank's branches across the country.

First National Bank Ghana is a member of the FirstRand Group of South Africa, one of the biggest financial organisations in Africa. Hollard Insurance, formerly Metropolitan Insurance Company (MET) which operated successfully in Ghana for 25 years, is a subsidiary of South Africa's largest privately-owned insurance group, operating in 18 countries including Ghana.

"Our strategic partnership with Hollard has a history. This relationship has delivered substantial benefits to customers in some of our subsidiaries and we are delighted to bring this capability to meet the strong demand from customers in Ghana," Dominic Adu, Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana says.

"We have partnered Hollard in other markets and the result for our customers has been remarkable. Insurance distribution and sales is changing as are the needs of our customers. We believe under the combined efforts of both brands; Ghanaians will see the value in our product offering and protect what they value most."

Mr. Adu added: "Our plan is to widen the distribution network using our digital platforms to reach more customers and potential customers. We will make it very easy for our clients to buy any policy they want for their home or vehicle."

Hollard Ghana combines its deep local knowledge of the market with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand. With headquarters in South Africa but a very strong local presence, Hollard has been delivering innovative insurance solutions for many years in Ghana.

"The partnership with First National Bank Ghana is founded and strengthened on our companies' similar corporate values," Patience Akyianu, Group CEO, Hollard Ghana, says.

"We both place the customer at the centre of all operations and are both committed to distributing products that enable our customers create and secure a better future. This collaboration will focus on value propositions which are customised to client needs. The benefits we are offering our clients are market leading. Reaching the under-served and uninsured using our combined suite of technologies will be a key game-changer."

First National Bank has a total of 11 branches in three regions in Ghana and is determined to bring its reputation of innovation and superior products to Ghanaians.

Hollard Insurance Ghana combines its deep local knowledge of the market with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand. The company offers innovative insurance solutions customized to the unique risks Ghanaians face.

GFA President pays courtesy call on First National Bank CEO


Accra - 2 November 2020 - The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt E.S. Okraku has paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana, Dominic Adu.

The visit was to seek the support of First National Bank in the development of Ghana's football, foster a mutually beneficial relationship between the bank and GFA, and to align on strategies for working together in the future.

Welcoming the GFA delegation, Mr. Adu congratulated Mr. Okraku for coming out victorious in a keenly contested election for the GFA presidency. He encouraged Mr. Okraku to pick the best lessons and experiences that will help boost football as a sport in Ghana and further re-ignite the passion and love Ghanaians have for the game.

Mr. Adu commented that football is indeed one of the greatest sports, and provides benefits not just for the players but the socio-economic development of the nation as well.

"The football game unifies us, and this is evident in our local communities," he said. "Even though it requires little resources to set up at the development stages, it has the power to bring many of our people from various walks of life together" he said.

Mr. Adu emphasised the need to provide some more focus for colts football as it is key to community mobilisation and the fostering of the passion that emanates from the unity the game brings.

The GFA president thanked First National Bank for the warm reception and expressed his admiration for the strides the bank is making in the Ghanaian financial market.

"I'm particularly impressed with your drive for digitisation, which has become more relevant now than before," Mr. Okraku said.

He further reiterated the need for the bank to support football development, the officials that run its administration and the players who thrive on the support of the fans to excel.

Mr. Okraku praised the team at First National Bank for their willingness to help revive and develop Ghana's football, citing the bank as worthy stakeholders for the GFA. He took the opportunity to solicit the bank's support for the Ghana Premier League, which is scheduled to start from November 2020 and the qualifiers for the next African Cup of Nations.

The GFA President was accompanied by his Executive Assistant, Mrs. Janice Odonkor, Head of Marketing of the GFA, Mr. Jamel Maraby, and the Vice Chairman of the Ghana Premier League Management Committee, Mr. Jesse Agyapong.

GFA President pays courtesy call on First National Bank CEO


Accra - November 2, 2020 - The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt E.S. Okraku has paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana, Dominic Adu.

The visit was to seek the support of First National Bank in the development of Ghana's football, foster a mutually beneficial relationship between the bank and GFA, and to align on strategies for working together in the future.

Welcoming the GFA delegation, Mr. Adu congratulated Mr. Okraku for coming out victorious in a keenly contested election for the GFA presidency. He encouraged Mr. Okraku to pick the best lessons and experiences that will help boost football as a sport in Ghana and further re-ignite the passion and love Ghanaians have for the game.

Mr. Adu commented that football is indeed one of the greatest sports, and provides benefits not just for the players but the socio-economic development of the nation as well.

"The football game unifies us, and this is evident in our local communities," he said. "Even though it requires little resources to set up at the development stages, it has the power to bring many of our people from various walks of life together.

Mr. Adu emphasized the need to provide some more focus for colts football as it is key to community mobilisation and the fostering of the passion that emanates from the unity the game brings.

The GFA president thanked First National Bank for the warm reception and expressed his admiration for the strides the bank is making in the Ghanaian financial market.

"I'm particularly impressed with your drive for digitization, which has become more relevant now than before," Mr. Okraku said.

He further reiterated the need for the bank to support football development, the officials that run its administration and the players who thrive on the support of the fans to excel.

Mr. Okraku praised the team at First National Bank for their willingness to help revive and develop Ghana's football, citing the bank as worthy stakeholders for the FA. He took the opportunity to solicit the bank's support for the Ghana Premier League, which is scheduled to start from November 2020 and the qualifiers for the next African Cup of Nation.

The GFA President was accompanied by his Executive Assistant, Mrs. Janice Odonkor, Head of Marketing of the GFA, Mr. Jamel Maraby, and the Vice Chairman of the Ghana Premier League Management Committee, Mr. Jesse Agyapong.

We are ready to meet high demand and interest in home ownership - First National Bank


Ghana's leading mortgage provider, First National Bank has hosted a virtual housing fair to help reduce the country's housing deficit, which current stands at almost two million.

Instead of hosting the housing fair at a physical location, as is usually done, First National Bank Ghana opted to take its annual housing fair completely online this year in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

That meant creating a platform for real estate developers, buyers and sellers to interact with each other while prospective homeowners viewed available properties and learnt about the diverse range of mortgage products the bank offers.

"A lot of people look forward to this major event on our annual calendar as a bank and we've had people constantly calling in to check if we will host it once again. Organising this year's housing fair was a very exciting challenge for us because of the pandemic," says CEO of First National Bank Ghana, Dominic Adu. "We needed to create a virtual reality environment on the internet where we could show prospective buyers the properties on offer; taking them to the property sites without having them at the physical location where the property is situated. Our solution was to film all the properties and capture all their details for the patrons of the fair to watch and interact with the sellers and our staff on our social media handles on YouTube. We are very glad that as challenging as it was, we made it."

The Executive Head of the Home Loans Business at First National Bank, Kojo Addo-Kufuor, is also happy with the patronage and successful organisation of the virtual housing fair and points out that one major challenge for most Ghanaians, resident and non-resident, who want to own properties is "the difficulty in finding the right property at the right price."

He says: "First National Bank Ghana helps to resolve this challenge by organizing the housing fair to showcase the many choices of houses, property designs, land and other infrastructure to enable buyers decide on what they are looking for while providing the funding for it with our complete suite of mortgages. All the videos are still available online and we invite the public to check them and reach out to us so we can help with the best mortgage solutions. Our aim is to make as many Ghanaians as possible acquire property they can call their own."

"You don't need to be burdened about using your entire savings to acquire a home," Mr. Addo-Kufuor concluded. "Whether you are young, old, resident or a non-resident Ghanaian, First National Bank can help you own a property in Ghana now. Today. We have bespoke mortgage products in our portfolio, perfect for the type of property you want and your financial capacity."

Tips to get your home loan approved


For many first-time home buyers, the process of applying for a home loan can often be daunting as they wait eagerly for a positive response from the bank.

"Taking time to understand how home loan applications are assessed can go a long way to help you increase the chances of getting approval," says Kojo Addo-Kufuor, Executive Head of Home Loan Business at First National Bank Ghana.

He shares four tips to help customers get their home applications approved without any delays:

  • Check the valuation of the property - before a home loan is approved, the bank will conduct their own valuation to ensure that the amount being borrowed is not far off from the market value of the property.
  • First National Bank allows customers to proactively conduct a property and area valuation report on property and compare this to the details provided by the seller or agent prior to the home loan application process.
  • Avoid taking on additional debt - some people mistakenly assume that banks only monitor their credit profiles and perform updated affordability checks prior to the home loan approval process.
  • However, this process continues for at least three months until when the loan is disbursed. Therefore, taking on additional debt or defaulting against credit providers can result in the bank repricing and in extreme cases declining the loan altogether.
  • Saving up for a deposit - although banks occasionally grant 100% home loans, having a deposit demonstrates the customers' commitment to the facility and increases their chances of getting approval. This is very important for customers looking to get a home purchase loan. First National Bank requires clients to make an initial deposit of not less than 20% of the property price as this represents the client's equity in the property to be financed.
  • Get pre-approval - getting pre-approval ahead of your home loan application gives you peace of mind by knowing whether you qualify or not. Your bank will normally ask for your most recent payslip, bank statements and credit report for pre-approval. The experienced team of Mortgage Advisors at First National Bank will help you run an assessment of the property, its value, your income against the loan amount and advise on next steps.

"If you qualify financially and have met all the above requirements you are one step closer to getting approval and ultimately owning the house of your dreams," concludes Mr. Addo-Kufuor.

For more information on our home loan application process, visit our website website www.firstnationalbank.com.gh If you want to speak to a member of our experienced mortgage advisors, please make sure you join the First National Bank housing fair. The virtual housing fair is

First National Bank organizes first virtual housing fair in Ghana


First National Bank organizes first virtual housing fair in Ghana

Accra-3rd November 2020: First National Bank Ghana, the leading home financing institution in Ghana, is set to host its maiden virtual housing fair in Ghana. The event will bring together developers and property owners in an open marketplace online to connect and interact with prospective home buyers.

The event is scheduled for the 18th and 19th November 2020, on First National Bank Ghana's YouTube page as well as the bank's other social media platforms from 11am each day.

The two-day virtual event will feature offers from industry players such as real estate developers, land retailers, contractors and home builders.

Kojo Addo-Kufuor, Executive director of Home Loans at First National Bank Ghana, stated that the virtual housing fair has been carefully planned for both developers and individuals who are looking to sell or buy homes in Ghana

"We appreciate the many applications for home loans coming through to us. Even though a lot more people are looking to buy new properties, most often, there is the challenge of finding the house that suits their, preferences and finances," Mr. Addo-Kufuor says.

"That is why we are opening up the housing fair once again, albeit in a virtual format because of the COVID-19 pandemic, to create an avenue for property owners to meet prospective buyers. And then with our help, buyers can finance the transaction with First National Bank's various home loan solutions."

During the virtual housing fair, patrons will be able take a virtual tour of properties on sale, chat live with property sellers and meet with staff from First National Bank Ghana who will guide prospective home buyers through the home loan application process.

There will also be various sessions on the First National Bank home loan offers and other relevant banking services for patrons.

"The housing fair will be a great place to virtually hang out and learn about the many developers in Ghana, property locations, building sites and every documentation required to secure that house you have been dreaming about for so long," says First National Bank Ghana's Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Delali Dzidzienyo.

"Financing your dream home should not be that overwhelming. First National Bank is here to help you with home loans for an outright purchase, home construction or even to release equity on an existing property for a new one - whether you are a resident or non-resident Ghanaian."

This event is free and open to the general public.

First National Bank crowned the best SME Bank in the world


First National Bank has been named as the SME Bank of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum Virtual awards ceremony held on 27 October.

The Global SME Finance Awards 2020 which are endorsed by the G20's Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) were organised by IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and the SME Finance Forum.

FNB was recognised amongst over 100 global participants for its digital innovation, exceptional products and services, as well as the unique and solution-focused manner it approaches challenges facing SMEs as they incubate, start, run and grow their businesses. The awards were judged by a committee of industry experts, with specific focus on reach, uniqueness and innovation, effectiveness and impact, as well as dynamism and scalability.

Jacques Celliers, FNB Group CEO says, "we are humbled to receive global recognition as this showcases that the work we are doing for our SME customers is truly adding value. SMEs are important drivers of economic activity, across all corners of society and are often referred to as the 'backbone' of economies. As we continue facing unprecedented economic challenges, coupled with the impact of Covid-19, we are cognisant that the SME sector remains a glimmer of hope in helping our country to create jobs and promote inclusive economic development."

Commenting on the award, Dominic Adu, CEO of First National Bank Ghana said that it is a true reflection of the hard work and the valuable investments into the development of a value proposition that meets the end-to-end needs of small to medium businesses. He stated that the First National Bank start, run and grow offering is built on an enterprise business banking platform that offers holistic and integrated financial solution for small to medium business. All of this is beginning to pay off, and this award is definitely one of the many feathers in our cap as a banking partner.

"A key part of what has distinguished us in recent years as a leader in the SME market points to the core part of our strategy to help develop SMEs by supporting them through all stages of their business journey. First National Bank has invested a lot in developing a business banking platform that offers holistic and integrated financial solutions. To maintain our market leading position, it is essential that we continue offering holistic and integrated financial solutions to our diverse business customers, while ensuring that our business model continually evolves in line with their changing needs." added Dominic Adu.

"We take the business of business seriously. From the onset, we realised that we needed to embrace the concept of "customer value creation". Therefore, by helping our SME customers grow their own businesses, we are also growing our revenues, as well as increasing employment and further spending in the economy," says Dominic.

The start, run and grow SME offer also provides businesses with educational material and information through The Business Toolkit. These tools leverage the bank's digital platforms, are free to use and have become instrumental in providing the right level of support to businesses during the in these hard times of COVID-19.

This global award cements First National Bank's place as a world class bank and the commitment to provide world class financial solutions

First National Bank Ghana is a subsidiary of FirstRand Group of South Africa one of the biggest financial institutions in Africa with a full banking presence in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho, Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and Tanzania.

First National Bank expects big spike in Black Friday purchases this year


While the concept of Black Friday is purported to have emerged from the United States of America, it has become quite popular in urban Ghana. This is as a result of the enormous business and product deals offered by merchants and service providers, which usually leads to increased purchases towards the Christmas holidays. In consideration of the many electronic transactions by patrons of Black Friday, First National Bank is expecting a 100% increase in purchases on Friday, November 27, 2020.

Hannah Annobil-Acquah, First National Bank's Head of Retail Banking says: "We expect the value of Black Friday transactions to rise significantly this year. When comparing typical Friday spend to Black Friday, we usually see a 100% increase in spend by customers."

Hannah is however, urging proper financial planning towards Black Friday and the Christmas festivities. "We encourage consumers to be mindful that Black Friday is effectively the start of a very long festive season, therefore it's important to plan for it properly and budget for purchases," she says. "Those participating should also consider making purchases for Back to School necessities to ease possible financial pressure at the beginning of next year."

Increasingly, consumers are choosing convenient ways to shop on Black Friday. According to the statement from First National Bank Ghana, there was an increase in online and in-app transactions on Black Friday by 26% while card present transactions saw a 14% increase in 2019. "We estimate card present transactions to make up the majority of consumer spend this year, but also expect consistent growth in online purchases. Currently, online merchants continue to be in the top 10 of retailers where First National Bank customers prefer to spend on Black Friday."

Mrs Annobil-Acquah further stated that the Black Friday euphoria is a perfect opportunity for customers who do not have their gold or platinum cards to get one from the bank. "We encourage customers to minimise reliance on cash, especially for larger purchases. More importantly, by enabling consumers to tap to pay, retailers can process transactions faster, reduce queue times and the risk of basket abandonment."

"It is a good time to be a First National Bank customer and even a better time to get and use your gold or platinum card. You get a three-tier benefit if you are purchasing anything towards Christmas and the new year during this Black Friday period. First National Bank pays you for every swipe for payment, you get deals from our merchants and then earn interest on your gold or platinum cheque account. You certainly are on the great helpful side with First National Bank gold or platinum account." She ended.

Four tips on how to be financially savvy this holiday season


1st December 2020: With the holidays just around the corner, it's important for consumers to exercise caution and self-discipline when managing their money over this period. Lack of financial discipline around the festive season can easily lead to financial woes especially in these trying times.

Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana says, you can avoid getting into financial distress during this yuletide period by doing the following:

  • Plan your budget and be honest with yourself on what you can afford.
  • Do your research ahead of time - you need to know exactly what you want to buy and determine the price of those goods upfront. Buy only what you need and not because something is on sale.
  • Don't use debt to buy non-essential or luxury goods. Consumers should also remember that credit incurs interest.

If you're tapping into your long-term savings or emergency saving funds, this also suggests that you may not afford a lot of Christmas shopping and spending. Consider the financial burdens ahead in the incoming year.

"Sometimes we are lured by the excitement, appealing marketing and are tempted to buy goods simply because we are told that the prices have been reduced," Mrs Annobil-Acquah says. "However, it's important to understand whether there has been any substantial reduction in the price of the item you wish to buy." The easiest way to determine if there has been a decrease is to track the price over a period of time. Do not be tempted to spend excessively, and if you have a list of what you want to buy and a budget, stick to it. "In these tough economic times, we need to be more prudent and stricter about our spending habits," Mrs Annobil-Acquah adds. "Just because something is labelled cheaper in the festive season doesn't always mean that you must buy it."

First National Bank helps Ghanaian businesses with resilience and sustainability lessons


Accra - 8 February 2021 - First National Bank has long been known for providing invaluable help, support and unmatchable services to businesses, particularly those that are small- and medium-sized operations (SMEs).

In addition to the extensive business relief efforts provided by the bank to help businesses cope with the challenges of Covid-19, First National Bank has also created a vast range of valuable information and education tools to support owners and managers of businesses of all shapes and sizes during the pandemic.

This vault of valuable information is now available on the First National Bank Business Hub, where any business owner in Ghana has free access to the content, which includes educational videos, strategic leadership guidance for rebuilding businesses and enhancing their resilience going forward. There are also thought leadership articles, videos, general business, industry and sector news and information, and an array of tools, templates and process guidelines to help businesses become more resilient, profitable and future-fit.

According to Mark Achiampong, Head of Commercial and Business Banking at First National Bank, while this Business Hub really came into its own as an incredibly useful business support platform during Covid-19, the content it offers holds value that extends way beyond managing the immediate impact of the pandemic.

"Covid-19 revealed that most businesses, and especially SMEs are grossly under-equipped to deal with a significant economic crisis, even one at a far smaller scale than the pandemic, which is why, despite most companies now being able to return to operation, First National Bank is continuing to build its Business Hub platform, including its Covid-19-focused Business Toolkit, with the aim of helping businesses address the core shortcomings and fundamental issues that made them so susceptible to the current crisis," Mr. Achiampong explains.

He emphasises that while the business toolkit's main focus areas, like scenario planning, liquidity management, expense cutting and planning, were developed primarily to help business owners to survive the pandemic and then 'bounce back' in the post-Covid-19 world, these fundamental business strategies are relevant and very valuable to business owners under any conditions.

"The truth is that most businesses are still in the middle of a significant crisis, and probably will be for some time to come," Mr. Achiampong says. "But even those that are already recovering well, can benefit significantly from applying the basic crisis management and resilience building strategies unpacked in the Business Toolkit on the First National Bank business hub, and these will stand them in good stead if they face similar crises in the future, or just in their normal, day-to-day business operations going forward."

The Business Toolkit covers the four phases of crisis management and consists of educational videos, extensive reading material and a range of templates, tools and process guides designed to enable businesses to equip themselves to react, respond, re-strategize and re-launch when they face a crisis.

First National Bank Ghana declares 2021 as the year of home ownership


Accra, February 22nd, 2020: First National Bank Ghana has declared 2021 as the 'Year of Home Ownership' (YOHO2021) to help make home ownership a reality for many Ghanaians.

Announcing the initiative in Accra, the bank described this as a catalyst in driving greater interest in property ownership using home loans (mortgages). It will be used to thoroughly engage consumers with relevant advice on home ownership options, introducing them to First National Bank Ghana's innovative market-leading home loan solutions.

Kojo Addo-Kufuor, Executive Head of Home Loans Business at First National Bank Ghana says, "YOHO2021 will send the message that home ownership provides stability and wealth building opportunities. We understand that housing is a critical need for many, and through the YOHO2021 initiative we aim to help make home ownership a reality for both resident and non-resident Ghanaians. We appreciate some of the perceived hurdles like income, documentation, title issues and credit history, and we want to work with as many Ghanaians to overcome these hurdles to achieve their dreams of owning a property."

For the YOHO 2021 period, First National Bank will prioritise the provision of home loan solutions at competitive interest rates for qualifying Ghanaians. There will also be special packages for non-resident Ghanaians working in the diaspora, employees of corporate entities applying as a group as well as self-employed and business owners. "We want to help many people to settle, be safe and comfortable with their families while pursuing their goals. Through a series of partnership announcements, client interactions and innovative market education campaigns, YOHO2021 will demonstrate how to start and successfully complete the journey to owning your own home", Kojo further added.

The bank will hold special joint sessions with its key stakeholders to outline and address some of the challenges usually associated with the process of acquiring a property. These include the land agencies, credit bureau and a select group of service providers who facilitate the process of home acquisition in Ghana.

First National Bank also confirmed that as part of planned activities, there will be an opportunity for existing homeowners to demonstrate how they have acquired a property with a home loan. The expectation is that such testimonials will help to allay the fears of those yet to apply for a home loan.

"Clearly the journey will not be the same for everyone. Some may buy land and build; others may buy from an estate developer or possibly buy from auctioneers or estate agents. Regardless of your preference, First National Bank is here to provide home loan solutions that will ensure a successful conclusion to each individual's journey", Kojo concluded.

The impact of COVID-19 on women-finding ways to be more flexible and inclusive


It's International Women's Day on 8 March 2021. In recognition of the celebration of International Women's Day this week, Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana shares her thoughts on the impact of COVID-19 on women; and how we are learning and evolving as a result.

05 March 2021: The McKinsey Women in Work 2020 Report indicated that 1 in 4 American women consider downshifting their careers or leaving the workforce. As the report states - the "double-shift" that women have already been working has become even more intense. In South Africa, the Income Dynamics Study - Coronavirus Rapid Mobile Survey reported that of the 3 million job losses reported in 2020, 2 million were that of women. For those fortunate enough to have jobs, our days are often filled with technology, ensuring the continuation of children's education or logistical changes, occupying children whilst in meetings or presenting, doing general household chores and working late to catch up on work.

Global leaders like Sheryl Sandberg have raised their concerns noting that the impact of the pandemic is a threat to the progress women have made in the workplace over the past decade. This is because of the delicate balancing act and load that so many of us are juggling.

"I see it as an opportunity to challenge our thinking and evolve our approach in business and society when it comes to our new reality - to fully support this evolution, our focus needs to rest on diversity, inclusion and constant upskilling within the workplace", Hannah stated.

According to Hannah, an understanding by employers around the continued and exaggerated needs for flexibility goes a long way, allowing women and parents the freedom to serve both their personal and business commitments. "Leaders can support staff needing to avail of leave and book out "meeting-free" times in their staff's diaries- this gives people the space to gather their thoughts and manage their load. We are not working 9-5 anymore, and so the workday and the attitude of society can evolve positively to accommodate and be flexible towards the rest of our lives. Pervasive feedback indicates that people value the freedom that work from home allows, as long as it is appropriately managed, and as long as trust and commitment is upheld - this is encouraging.

Inclusivity means an acceptance that people are working from their home environments, and so an expectation around disturbances for both men and women alike, such as children's voices in the background, allows people to feel more comfortable rather than feeling like they need to be put 'on mute'. Setting up time for casual, judgement free interactions where employees are called upon to share their perspectives and opinions have become critically important for people to remain connected and included.

She further explained that inclusivity from a business perspective should however be viewed with an even broader lens. Male and female leaders should continue to give exposure and 'open the door' to opportunities for women. When operating in such a virtual world of work, this is a deliberate effort of stepping aside to allow women to lead a project, pitch, take their rightful seat at the boardroom table and drive initiatives. Succession plans can play a valuable role in this if they are deliberate, fair, and supported by mentors and sponsors.

The pandemic has put a spotlight on business and political leaders and the value that people place on empathy, communication, collaboration, teamwork, relationships, and the ability to motivate - I am hopeful that this will be sustained well beyond the pandemic. These are all categories that many women excel in and given the opportunity to tap into these and use it to better society and business, could create even more of a platform for women to thrive in the workforce and beyond.

It takes a village to juggle multiple work and personal life responsibilities, and this village is comprised of both men and women, family members, friends, business colleagues, and even the local grocery delivery service. If we as leaders, colleagues, friends and family work together to accept and appreciate everyone's varying circumstances and challenges, to create opportunities, and importantly, to share the physical and mental load, we can emerge from this pandemic and set ourselves up for a future that is more human and more connected than ever.

To the mom assisting customers on the phone while her children are playing next to her; to the daughter taking care of her parents; to the manager running a meeting and worrying about what's for dinner; to the friend checking in regularly with those who need her; to the leader who gives care and support to her team - we see you, value you and thank you for helping us all learn how to be better. Happy International Women's month.

First National Bank recognised as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand


First National Bank recognised as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand for second year in a row

First National Bank has retained its position as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand for the second year in a row in the 2021 Brand Finance� Global 500 Banking report. With brand value of US$1.3 billion, First National Bank is the top performing South African brand among top 200 most valuable bank brands in the world in the 2021 Brand Finance� Global 500 Banking ranking.

In determining leading banks, the Brand Finance® survey partly considers brand-specific revenues as a proportion of parent company revenues attributable to the brand in question and forecast those revenues by analysing historic revenues, equity analyst forecasts, and economic growth rates.

Jacques Celliers, Global CEO of First National Bank says, "This accolade affirms the resilience of our business to withstand the monumental challenge of a global pandemic. Despite the headwinds that customers and businesses across the continent continue to face, plans to implement vaccination programmes in some countries augur well for efforts to minimise the impact of the pandemic on lives and livelihoods. We are energised and remain committed to continue playing an active role in all countries in which we operate."

First National Bank Ghana began operations in Ghana in October 2015. Leveraging on the experience and financial muscle of its parent company FirstRand Group in South Africa, the bank has grown on the back of its innovative services via digital applications and reach to excel in Ghana. Following the successful acquisition of the erstwhile GHL Bank, First National Bank Ghana has expanded with a total of 11 branches in three key regions in Ghana and is determined to bring its reputation of innovation and superior products to Ghanaians.

Dominic Adu, CEO of First National Bank Ghana stated that this is another worthy feather in the cap of the bank because the bank has worked hard to provide various support measures to maintain financial stability for customers in the past year, albeit the challenges of the past year. "In the last year our brand pushed boundaries in adding value to customers' lives in a time of uncertainty, and this was reflected in our efforts to offer relief to individuals and business, coupled with keeping our doors open as an essential service," says Dominic Adu, CEO of First National Bank Ghana. "Our industry-leading digital platform enabled our customers to manage their finances in the comfort of their homes and millions of our customers continued to supplement business and households budgets with our relief packages to alleviate financial strain. All these efforts interventions are testament to our brand promise of Help," concludes Dominic.

First National Bank launches its new #TheChangeables brand campaign


Accra, 07 June 2021: First National Bank has launched a dynamic new brand communication campaign, #TheChangeables, to celebrate Ghanaians and Africans in general who take challenges in their stride, transform obstacles into opportunities, and embrace change as a way of building a better future for themselves and others.

According to the Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at the bank, Delali Dzidzienyo, First National Bank's new #TheChangeables brand positioning represents its acknowledgement of the importance of change as a catalyst of personal, business, and economic growth, and highlights its commitment to being an effective agent of change. He describes "#TheChangeables" as passionate, strong, and resilient African people and businesses, with whom the bank wants to partner in creating even more positive change across Africa.

"Despite the many challenges Covid-19 brought, the pandemic also casts a very bright spotlight on the courageous, resilient and adaptable Ghanaian spirit," Delali says, "and this spirit resonates so strongly with First National Bank that we felt compelled to embrace it and position it at the very core of who we are and what we do as a truly African bank ".

He added, "In the spirit of #TheChangeables, we are constantly refreshing our solutions and service models to align with the step change in customers' needs while upping the ante on our competitive advantage. We pride ourselves on putting customers at the centre of our financial solutions and the changes we are implementing demonstrate our commitment to value-based banking embedded in our offerings."

First National Bank states that #TheChangeables is not a move away from its well-established brand purpose of helpfulness. "Rather, it is the next step in delivering on that purpose. #TheChangeables is far more than just another brand campaign," says Delali, "it's the tangible representation of a value system that recognises the journey that every person and/or business is on, and our role in providing the solutions they need to progress even further."

"The year 2020 taught us all that there really is no need to fear change, but that we should instead embrace it as a highly positive force in our lives," Delali concludes, "and #TheChangeables not only celebrates the willingness and courage of change agents to do exactly that, but it also asserts First National Bank's total commitment to supporting them through our platform based solutions as a trusted enabler of change and the preferred Bank of #TheChangeables."

First National Bank Celebrates Africa With Live Concert


First National Bank will host a virtual concert on Africa Day, May 25 2021, in celebration of African unity, diversity and talent. This concert will feature artists from Ghana, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho and Botswana right to the homes of thousands of people across the continent.

Recognized as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand for the second year running, First National Bank brings customers and the public a virtual concert that captures the spirit of what it means to be African. The Africa Day concert, a first of its kind, will be a mix of music and dance showcased by performers from diverse backgrounds, collaborating to create Afro-inspired musical magic.

"In the last year our brand pushed boundaries in adding value to customers' lives in a time of uncertainty, and this was reflected in our efforts to offer relief to individuals and business, coupled with keeping our doors open as an essential service", says Delali Dzidzienyo, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at First National Bank Ghana. "Our industry-leading digital platform enabled our customers to manage their finances in the comfort of their homes - and on Africa Day we will once again utilize the digital space in bringing our customers and all Africans together with this concert like never before".

"Many events have obviously been pushed online, often at the expense of the experience which makes them so powerful in the first place, however we think the fusion of live performance and online interaction delivers the best of both worlds. We believe the online concert experience will open up a new musical world to all Africans" adds Delali.
Featured artists include: Yaw Tog and Cina Soul (Ghana), Top Cheri (Namibia), PDK (Namibia), Sands (Eswatini), Velemseni (Eswatini), KhoiSan (Botswana), Mophato Dance Theatre (Botswana), Ntate Stunna (Lesotho) as well as Botala ba Linare (Lesotho).

The concert will stream for free on the First National Bank Facebook and YouTube pages at 14:30 GMT of May 25, 2021.

Notice of dormant accounts


Notice of Dormant Accounts held by First National Bank Ghana Limited

In accordance with the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), we hereby bring to the attention of the general public that we have published the list of customers with First National Bank Ghana accounts that have not been in operation for a minimum of five years and therefore remain dormant.

Customers have been given prior notice of this and they or their legal representatives are advised to contact the nearest First National Bank branch to reactivate their account within two weeks from the date of this publication.

Note that the unclaimed balances on dormant account(s) will be transferred to the Bank of Ghana in compliance with Act 930.

View list of dormant accounts.

First National Bank awarded Best Investment Bank in Ghana for 2022


First National Bank has been awarded Best Investment Bank in Ghana for 2022.

The award, from the prestigious Global Finance magazine, is in recognition of the bank's role in the conclusion of some significant landmark deals. These include the assistance that enabled the government of Ghana to conduct a tender offer on its 2023 notes and raise more than three billion US Dollars in Eurobonds.

The transaction included several market firsts, most notably the placement of a benchmark Zero-Coupon tranche which provided Ghana additional fiscal capacity without having to service interest over its four-year tenor.

Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank Ghana, Dominic Adu, says the award bears testimony to the bank's strategic role in Ghana's economic development.

"We have worked and will continue to work with the government of Ghana to consolidate our economic gains as a nation, helping to raise the necessary funding for infrastructure we need to keep the economy moving," Mr. Adu says.

"Not only are we supporting the government with our expertise and global connections, but we are here to help Ghanaian business reach their fullest potential and also assist individuals achieve their personal financial goals. As we continue with the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, First National Bank Ghana will continue to provide all the support the country needs to get back on the path of economic growth."

Editors at Global Finance magazine, with input from industry experts, used a series of criteria to confer the award of Africa's Best Investment Bank on First National Bank Ghana and FNB Mozambique. The criteria included entries from banks, market share, number and size of deals, service and advice, structuring capabilities, distribution network, efforts to address market conditions, innovation, pricing, after-market performance of underwritings and market reputation. Deals announced or completed in 2021 were considered.

First National Bank Ghana is a member of South Africa's First Rand Group. Another member of the Group, FNB Mozambique was recognised by Global Finance Magazine as the Best Investment Bank in the Southern African nation.

"Investment banks are playing a leading role in reshaping the world economy as the pandemic progresses," says Joseph D. Giarraputo, publisher and editorial director of Global Finance. "It is more important than ever for companies to understand the specialties and skills that investment banks bring to the table. Global Finance's Investment Bank Awards are a powerful resource on the leading institutions in this sector."

Global Finance regularly selects the top performers among banks and other providers of financial services. These awards have become a trusted standard of excellence for the global financial community.

Notice of dormant accounts


Notice of Dormant Accounts held by First National Bank Ghana Limited

In accordance with the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), we hereby bring to the attention of the general public that we have published the list of customers with First National Bank Ghana accounts that have not been in operation for a minimum of five years and therefore remain dormant.

Customers have been given prior notice of this and they or their legal representatives are advised to contact the nearest First National Bank branch to reactivate their account within two weeks from the date of this publication.

Note that the unclaimed balances on dormant account(s) will be transferred to the Bank of Ghana in compliance with Act 930.

View list of dormant accounts.

Agency Plus transactions soar to USD70 million for First National Bank's African clients


Access to basic banking services is an essential cornerstone of sustainable economic growth for any developing country. Unfortunately, a lack of access to such banking services is still a reality for many people and families in communities across Africa.

First National Bank is successfully changing this reality for growing numbers of people in most of the African countries in which it operates in, and the highly positive response to the innovative First National remote banking offering, called Agency Plus in Ghana and CashPlus in other First National Bank subsidiary countries, shows just what an impact accessible banking can have on the people who need it.

According to Akweley Laryea, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana, the First National Bank Agency Plus service has seen stellar growth since it was first launched, culminating in transactions on the platform across Africa reaching almost USD70million in value for the month of December 2021. "We consider this to be a very significant achievement, given that First National Bank Agency Plus only started officially in Zambia as Cash Plus in mid-2018," Akweley says, "not to mention that the growth over the past two years has been against the very challenging backdrop of Covid-19 in all the countries where First National Bank operates."

First National Bank Agency Plus is a safe and convenient way for individuals to deposit and withdraw cash at a local shop or merchant registered as an Accredited Agency Plus Partner in Ghana. The transaction is usually completed either via the First National Bank App or using the USSD.

She explains that "the accessibility and immediacy of First National Bank Agency Plus appears to have put the solution in an advantageous position during the Covid-19 pandemic. Customers were drawn to the convenience and cost-efficiency of the banking services it offers".

The successful roll out of the Agency Plus service in the First National Bank subsidiaries is the evidence that it has become a highly trusted community banking channel in these countries, not just the 193% year-on-year growth in transaction value across the platform, but also the 122% year-on-year increase in the number of customers transacting and the 85% growth in merchants who are now active agents. In the less than four years that Agency Plus has existed, First National Bank leveraged the solution to increase its electronic points of presence (in addition to merchant-based service points) by over 1565% to meet growing demand.

"We are deeply invested in enhancing the lives of all our customers and delivering on our promise to help them get the most out of their money. It's clear that our Agency Plus offering is a valuable enabler of this commitment in our countries of operation across Africa, so we feel we have a responsibility to make its many benefits available to more people and small businesses. We currently have Agency Plus in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, Central and Western Regions and will rapidly increase the number of our Agency Plus partners in Ghana by the end of 2022, to enable us realise the goal of true financial inclusion and create more access to financial services", concludes Akweley.

Hundreds turn up for maiden FNB Accra Marathon


11 November 2023: Hundreds of runners from across the country are participating in the 2023 First National Bank Accra Marathon which took off this morning, November 11, at the Maritime University in Nungua.

The runners are vying for honours in races, including the intensive 42.2-kilometre run which is meant to test the endurance of professional athletes, a five-kilometre run for students and a 10-kilometre race dedicated to corporate entities..

The Accra Marathon race made a triumphant return today following a landmark move by the First National Bank and the Dansoman Keep Fit Club (DKFC) who signed a momentous five-year partnership agreement to breathe life back into the prestigious event, which has been dormant for the past six years.

Source: Beatrice Laryea Graphic Sports News

Koogo Atia wins maiden FNB Accra Marathon


11 November 2023: A former student of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Koogo Atia has won the men's category of the 42.2 kilometres race of the 2023 First National Bank (FNB) Accra Marathon held today, November 11.

In the female category, 18-year-old Portia Anaba from the T I Ahmaddiya Secondary School in Kumasi took the first position.

About 1,000 runners from across the country participated in the 42.2 kilometres race for professional athletes as well as 10 kilometres for school children.

Atia, who is currently a National Service Personnel at the Walewale Senior High School, clocked a time of 2:03:25 to emerge winner of the coveted competition which started at 6 am from the Regional Maritime University at Nungua through some demarcated streets in Accra to the Dansoman Keep Fit Club.

The 24-year-old Physical Education Instructor, who hails from the North East Region, precisely Sagadugu in Walewale, took the lead right after the blast of the whistle and further widened the gap at about 500 metres to Dansoman and kept the momentum for hours until he crossed the finished line at Dansoman Keep Fit Club.

For his reward, Atia took home GH₵20,000 as cash prize, laptops and souvenirs from sponsors. He was also rewarded with a fully paid trip to participate in an upcoming international marathon later next year.

"I knew I was going to win because I trained so hard for it. I trained so hard when I heard about this marathon. This is an economization of your pace so you need to train for it. Actually I have trained for more than a month for this competition so I had it in mind that by God's grace I would win," he told the Graphic Online in an interview.

Noah Wunboriche and Ishmael Fianoo took the second and third positions respectively and they also received cash prizes, laptops as well as souvenirs from the sponsors

Sheriffa Moro and Joyce Ayaba were second and third in that order, in the female category.

Several products from the sponsors were presented to the first 50 runners while other participants received certificates of participation.

The marathon was organised by the Dansoman Keep Fit Club with sponsorship from the First National Bank.It was supported by Hollard Insurance, Bel-Aqua, Yango and Dano Milk with the Graphic Communications Group Ltd and the Multimedia Group being media partners.

Source: Beatrice Laryea Graphic Sports News

First National Bank Accra Marathon to become national event - Sports Minister


11 November 2023:The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Yusif has hinted of plans to make the First National Bank-sponsored Accra Marathon a national event. He said the marathon was a testament to the spirit of endurance and unity in our communities hence making it a nationwide event would help to unearth more talents as well as grow the sport.

Mr Mustapha, who is also a Member of Parliament for Yagaba Kubore Constituency, was speaking at the closing ceremony of the marathon which started today, November 11, 2023, from the Regional Maritime University in Nungua and ended at the Dansoman Keep Fit Club.

"This event is about enthusiasm and discipline. Your determination shows the power of sports to bring our people together.

"The Ministry will collaborate with the Dansoman Keep Fit Club to make this event a national event," he said.

He commended the leadership of the Dansoman Keep Fit Club and the First National Bank as well as other sponsored for their diverse contributions to revive the completion which had been in hiatus for more than six years.

About 1,000 runners from across the country participated in the 42.2 kilometres race for professional athletes as well as 10 kilometres for school children.

At the end of the over five-hour race, 24-year-old Koogo Atia from Sagadugu in the North East Region won the men category of the 42.2 kilimotres race while Potia Anaba, a Form Two student of the T I Ahmadiyya SHS in Kumasi, won the women's event.

For their rewards, they each took home GH₵20,000 as cash prize, laptops and souvenirs from sponsors.

Source: Beatrice Laryea Graphic Sports News

Notice of dormant accounts


Notice of Dormant Accounts held by First National Bank Ghana Limited - November 2023

In accordance with the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), we hereby bring to the attention of the general public that we have published the list of customers with accounts at First National Bank Ghana that have not been operated for a minimum of five years and therefore remain dormant.

Customers have been given prior notice of this and they or their legal representatives are advised to contact the nearest First National Bank branch to reactivate their account within two weeks from the date of this publication.

Note that the unclaimed balances on dormant account(s) will be transferred to the Bank of Ghana in compliance with Act 930.

View list of dormant accounts.

Notice of dormant accounts


Notice of Dormant Accounts held by First National Bank Ghana Limited

In accordance with the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), we hereby bring to the attention of the general public that we have published the list of customers with First National Bank Ghana accounts that have not been in operation for a minimum of five years and therefore remain dormant.

Customers have been given prior notice of this and they or their legal representatives are advised to contact the nearest First National Bank branch to reactivate their account within two weeks from the date of this publication.

Note that the unclaimed balances on dormant account(s) will be transferred to the Bank of Ghana in compliance with Act 930.

View list of dormant accounts.

First National Bank appoints Warren Adams as Chief Executive Officer


First National Bank appoints Warren Adams as Chief Executive Officer

First National Bank Ghana has announced the appointment of Warren Adams as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Wednesday 1 February, 2023. He takes over from Dominic Adu, who was appointed CEO after the acquisition and subsequent merger with GHL Bank in 2020.

Until his new appointment, Mr. Adams served as the Executive Director for First National Bank Ghana. He has previously served as CEO for First National Bank's operations in Tanzania, Mozambique and Lesotho.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are excited about Warren's promotion to the CEO role“, says First National Bank Ghana board chairman, Emmanuel Idun. “We are confident that his leadership capabilities, coupled with his astute financial and economic management expertise, will enable the bank to further expand its product offerings and deliver excellent service to many more Ghanaians, while also contributing significantly to the growth of the business. His experience will help unlock further value in our banking services, and expand our existing offerings to help Ghanaians fulfill their financial aspirations.“

Mr. Adams holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and a Master of Business Leadership Degree, both from the University of South Africa.

Johan Maree, CEO of First National Bank (Broader Africa), is optimistic that as CEO, Warren Adams will establish First National Bank Ghana as a key contributor to the Ghanaian banking industry. “It is with much joy that I congratulate Warren on his appointment as CEO,“ Mr. Maree says. “I look forward to seeing Warren leverage his wealth of experience and steer our business forward, whilst positively contributing to our customers and providing sustainable solutions that benefit the communities in which we serve.“

The former CEO, Dominic Adu has retired after leading the First National Bank Ghana team since 2020. He enjoyed a 38-year multi-disciplinary illustrious career in the financial services industry, and is a co-founder of the former Ghana Home Loans.

When accepting his appointment, Mr. Adams said: “I strongly believe that, with our proven customer-centric approach and the quality of our team, opportunities abound for us to build on all the good work achieved so far. I look forward to contributing towards establishing a solid financial institution and supporting the overall growth of the banking industry in Ghana.“

First National Bank's advice-led approach to financial services earns global recognition as Strongest Banking Brand


First National Bank's advice-led approach to financial services earns global recognition as Strongest Banking Brand

Months after its major brand refresh in South Africa and other subsidiaries, new digital interfaces and a new approach to integrated advice, First National Bank has been named the Strongest Banking Brand in the World in the Brand Finance Banking 500 2023 report. The bank emerged as the leader among the world's 500 largest banks, with an impressive Brand Strength Index score of 93 (out of 100), a AAA+ rating, and a brand value of $1,540 billion.

The Strongest Banking Brand acknowledgement is determined through an independent brand valuation where scores for independent measures are informed by brand investment (including products, service and innovation), brand equity (functional and emotional drivers), and financial performance data (incl. current revenue, price premium). In the 2023 rankings First National Bank improved across several metrics including positive brand sentiment and various financial performance measures (including improved forecasted growth rates). Additionally, a strong banking brand should be able to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences. This is certainly true for First National Bank, which has been at the forefront of introducing new technologies and platforms that make financial and lifestyle services more convenient and accessible for customers. It was the first bank in Africa to introduce a mobile banking app and online banking, allowing customers to manage their money from anywhere at any time.

First National Bank CEO, Jacques Celliers says, one of the key reasons for their continued success is their commitment to platform innovation and advice-led financial services. "Our advice-led approach to financial services offers customers the full benefits of personalised help across our range of solutions. This helps customers make more informed decisions about their finances, such as identifying potential financial risks and opportunities. Overall, our aim is to help customers achieve their goals and aspirations by improving their financial well-being. Our success over the 185 years of our brand's existence is also due to the high levels of trust and loyalty shown by our customers, and this is something we deeply cherish."

The Chief Marketing Officer at First National Bank, Faye Mfikwe, adds that "our recent efforts to refresh our iconic brand, interfaces and value propositions was not only designed to help customers with their needs, but to equally broaden our brand's appeal and transcend geographical limitations. This accolade gives us impetus to continue making a difference in the lives of our customers and the communities we serve. Furthermore, we believe that a one-of-a-kind global recognition such as this one can be instrumental in inspiring hope to people on our continent about the limitless possibilities when we all strive to be #changeables at heart."

Highlighting the bank's far-reaching impact in Africa, First National Bank Ghana's CEO Warren Adams indicated that their commitment to partner in building sustainable communities has also contributed to its strong brand. The bank has implemented various initiatives to support sustainable development, with an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility. “Over the years, First National Bank has increased its efforts to broaden financial inclusion across the African continent, investing in local markets to open purpose-built branches and other points of presence. Similarly, there have been strong partnerships with local businesses through agile business models that enable communities and the bank to derive shared value. Key among this is the expansion of our unmatched services beyond our owned brick-and-mortar structures with our Agency Plus partners. They have become the bank next door, accessible within the community to help you complete many basic transactions in real time“, he added.

Jeremy Sampson from Brand Finance says, "we're pleased to once again see that brands on the African continent continue to make their presence felt across the world. Our survey comes at a crucial time when brands are facing global uncertainty, and our models can, to a degree, become a yardstick for brands that are focused on building a sustainable future and businesses. The Strongest Brand accolade is highly contested, which means any brand that emerges at the top can be proud of its efforts."

Ends.

About Brand Finance

Brand Finance is the world's leading brand valuation consultancy, founded in 1996. Brand Finance exists to help clients build successful, admired, and effective brands by better understanding their effects on customers and other stakeholders. It values the World's biggest brands across all countries and sectors to create the annual Brand Finance Global 5,000 Brand Valuation Database.

Notice of dormant accounts


Notice of dormant accounts held by First National Bank - April 2023

Following the Banks and Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), we have published the list of customers with accounts at First National Bank that have not been used for a minimum of five years and have become dormant.

We have notified customers. We advise that customers or their legal representatives visit their nearest First National Bank branch to reactivate their account within two weeks from the date of this publication.

We will transfer the balances of dormant accounts to the Bank of Ghana in compliance with Act 930.

View list of dormant accounts.

The safekeeping and custodian advantage


One of the most important protections and a control against fraud is the addition of safekeeping from the investment portfolio. If necessary, investment policies should include a section regarding safekeeping and custody that defines how the holding institution should have its securities held by an independent third-party for safekeeping to minimize the risk of a fraudulent transaction.

Kofi Pianim, Head of Global Markets at First National Bank explained custody as when an investor - whether a retail investor, an employee pension fund, a mutual fund or any other kind of institutional investor invests in a financial asset such as an equity or debt security, they need someone to hold and safekeep the asset on its behalf. 'That is where a custodian comes in to receive any dividends or interest payments made by the company that issued the security; alert the investor of any votes or other actions the investor needs to take with respect to the security (such as responding to an offer by the issuer to exchange the security for another security)', Kofi said.

Custodians provide all of these custody services to investors by contracting with the investor either directly or with an agent of the investor, such as an investment manager. In short, a custodian provides custody and related services to investors-broadly characterized as the safekeeping and servicing of an investor's assets. They play a critical role in helping investors to build and maintain wealth. "Usually, if the investor wishes to sell the security or purchase another security, the custodian processes the transaction on the investor's behalf", affirmed Kofi.

Although custodians may have separate commercial or consumer lending relationships with certain custody clients, such lending relationships do not generally extend to the financing of clients' custodied investment positions through loans or long-dated credit facilities. "Generally, the only lending custodians engage in as principal as part of their custody services business involves the provision of short-term credit (generally intraday or overnight) to facilitate efficient settlement across different payment and settlement systems and time zones, cover overdrafts, facilitate client redemptions, enable the payment of management fees and other expenses, and allow their clients to manage liquidity" Kofi suggested

On whether the custodian faces credit, market, liquidity, and operational risk, Kofi emphasized that the nature of risk with custody and related activities in which custodians engage are presented often differently in scale from those presented by other banking activities. "At First National Bank. we have world-class and robust systems/platforms in place to provide quality services to our clients. These include our fast trade settlement, secure cash interface and easy-to-use self-service platform for clients to instruct electronically, which feeds into our processing system". First National Bank also offer Global Custody offering and efficient market information gathering.

"We leverage our expertise for custody and clearing solutions across our proprietary network to help grow our client business and investment through efficient market access" he ended.

The benefits, and potential difficulties, of ChatGPT as a business tool


While ChatGPT has created something of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) storm in recent months, AI is anything but a new concept. In fact, businesses have been using it, to a greater or lesser degree, for decades now, whether to automate basic processes, analyse datasets, or deliver digital customer support.

What ChatGPT has done, however, is raise awareness of the potential that AI has to add significant value to businesses of all shapes and sizes. Chief Information Officer at First National Bank, Samuel Dakurah explained that, as an AI language model trained to understand and respond to human language, ChatGPT has itself become a popular way for many businesses and employees to save time and improve efficiencies. "However, while there are many benefits to using ChatGPT, there are also a number of limitations, even risks, that businesses should keep in mind in order to ensure that they are indeed making the most of this exceptional technology" he said. Samuel shares some pros and cons for users of ChatGPT.

The first, and arguably most valuable, of these benefits is the opportunity that ChatGPT presents for businesses to save time when gathering knowledge or doing research. Instead of spending hours scouring the internet or consulting with expensive experts, businesses now have the option to simply ask ChatGPT for information on a particular topic and receive a response in a matter of seconds. This can be particularly helpful for small businesses or start-ups that may not have the financial or human resources at their disposal to conduct extensive research on their own. It can be a quick, cheap, and useful way to conduct market research, identify trends, and gather insights into customer behaviours.

However, it's important to be aware of the fact that the information ChatGPT provides is highly contextual. While ChatGPT can quickly identify trends and patterns, it is unlikely to be able to provide the same level of analysis as a human researcher. Therefore, businesses must balance the benefits of speed and efficiency with the need for accuracy and depth of analysis. "For example, if a business asks ChatGPT "What is the best way to win customers between income categories?" the response they will receive is likely to be very generic, without the addition of significant values or real strategic insights that they do not already have. The reason is simply that ChatGPT does not know any of the finer nuances about the business, or the geographic and demographic factors that may influence its marketing efforts. So, the response, while probably fairly accurate, will likely be far too broad to be useful", he cautioned.

The second benefit of ChatGPT is that it can help businesses improve efficiency by automating certain tasks. For example, ChatGPT may be useful in generating generic content for social media or marketing campaigns, thereby saving businesses time and resources. However, this content is once again going to be generic and may not capture the finer marketing requirements of the business. It is unlikely to be aligned with a business's brand or messaging and it may not always be able to capture the subtleties of the brand voice. As a result, businesses need to be careful when using ChatGPT to generate content and ensure that it aligns with their overall branding and messaging strategy.

The third business benefit of ChatGPT - and possibly the one that has the potential to be of highest value - is that the AI platform can serve as an objective sounding board for those looking to figure out whether they are asking the right questions about their business. By asking ChatGPT for information on a particular topic, and then critically assessing the responses they receive, businesses can gain valuable insights into whether they are actually asking the right questions or focusing on the right intelligence that will help them grow and prosper. "When asked the right questions, in the right way, ChatGPT may identify patterns and trends that would not be immediately apparent to human researchers. This can help businesses identify blind spots in their operations or generate new ideas for growth. This feature of ChatGPT can be particularly helpful for businesses that are just starting out, or those that are looking to pivot in a new direction based on market movements or competitor pressure", Samuel explained.

Of course, it's important to remember that ChatGPT's insights are only as good as the questions it is being asked. In other words, if a business is asking the wrong questions or focusing on the wrong information, ChatGPT may be unable to provide the insights they need. This means that any business wanting to derive worthwhile benefits from ChatGPT needs to be highly strategic in its use of the platform.

Ultimately, it is imperative that business users of ChatGPT keep in mind that it is a tool, not a solution.
While it can undoubtedly assist with certain tasks, it's no substitute for human insight and creativity, and it should never be the sole source of business intelligence or market information. "As fantastic as ChatGPT may seem, an AI language model is not (yet) a substitute for a holistic business approach, built on relevant quantitative and qualitative data, and underpinned by deep experience and an integrated approach to understanding markets and customers" he concludes.

Is your insurance coverage enough for your family?


In Ghana, insurance is typically not considered a necessity, however, for people who take insurance policies, their sum insured (maximum amount paid out for claims) is largely based on their current circumstances. Sadly, after people take policies, they fail to increase their sum insured as their circumstances change.

Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank, Madam Akweley Laryea, recommends that as your financial circumstances change, it is essential to review the sum insured as it may no longer be sufficient to cover the needs of your family or dependents.

She highlights common situations that should encourage people to update the amount of coverage they are insured for.

  • Marriage - getting married and starting a family is a commitment that comes with a number of financial responsibilities. It is therefore essential to update your policy cover to include your partner as an insured life or the beneficiary of your policy.
  • Children - one of the common reasons why people take out life insurance is to protect the financial future of their children. When you have a new child or the number of your dependents increases, it is important to ensure that your life insurance is adjusted to accommodate the changes. "An educational policy can be taken in addition to a life cover, for example, to cater to the needs of your dependants in the unfortunate situation of your demise", says Akweley.
  • Getting a higher paying job - if your financial situation improves, you should update your insurance coverage accordingly to ensure that your dependents maintain the same lifestyle should you pass away. "For example, you could have moved into an affluent suburb and decided to take your kids to a high-end school", she added.
  • Buying a new house - whether your home is purchased through a home loan or self-financed, it is essential to have adequate insurance policies in place to secure it. "You will need a property insurance policy to protect the building from damages as a result of fire, flood and allied perils. The content of your home can also be protected from damages caused by these perils and from thefts, burglaries and robberies. For homes purchased with a home loan, a mortgage protection policy can be taken out to cover the outstanding loan balance", Akweley reiterated. In the event of your demise or disability, you can rest assured, knowing that your family will not be burdened with paying for the home loan.
  • Health - as health costs increase, you may need to consider taking out a private health insurance policy to cover yourself and your family. A medical emergency is one of the top reasons why people are unable to achieve their savings and investment goals because such emergencies are usually unexpected and require large sums. Akweley explained that a health insurance policy will take care of the majority, if not all, of your emergency expenses, allowing you the room to achieve your savings and investment goals. If your health condition changes, you may have to consider taking a funeral policy or updating your cover amount, based on your age and individual circumstances. Furthermore, depending on the nature and severity of the illness, you may claim some compensation from your insurer.
  • "If you are unsure of the amount of life cover you need or whether it's the right time to update your policy, it is advisable to speak to your bank or financial services provider for guidance," concludes Akweley.

    How to make savings matter from a young age


    Encouraging your kids to save from a young age is important, as it sets them up for the future. Studies have indicated that in Ghana and most developing parts of the world, families feel that it's difficult to save as a result of low-income levels. With the banked population pegged at just 33%, we need to start helping our future generations understand the importance of saving and guide them in building healthy and solid relationships with money.

    Conversations around saving and spending are crucial life skills, as they help shape children's attitudes about money from a young age.

    "Children should start understanding the concept of money at a very young age. It's at this point that we need to start inculcating the value and importance of effective and creative money management in them," Akweley Laryea, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank says.

    "We could influence the way our children save or spend their money through ongoing conversations. These conversations should revolve around the concept of 'choice', by giving our children the option of spending versus saving their allowances or money and the potential impact of not saving for the future.

    "One of the best ways of ensuring that your children are capable of saving is to let them take control of their savings journey. Using age-appropriate ways to teach saving and making it interactive will make it fun for them and help them develop a healthy relationship with money and savings. Guide them through the money management journey, starting with basic budgeting, helping them understand that saving is a need, not a want, and helping them track their progress monthly. This is one of the best ways to get them started on their savings journey and make them the next generation of money-savvy young adults."

    Madam Laryea highlights a few ways that parents can sway the savings conversations with their children:

  • Unpack the importance of needs vs wants
  • We've all been in those situations where we want to spend our hard-earned money on something nice. Teaching kids the value of saving from the onset involves distinguishing between needs and wants. Help them understand that needs include basic items like food, clothing, and stationery, and wants are those additional nice-to-haves like toys, bicycles, movie tickets, etc.

    Conversations around needs and wants ought to be practical. Parents or elders can build a game around the concept by quizzing their kids at home or in an external environment and asking the question, "What is a need and want?"

  • Challenge them
  • There's no better way to get kids to do something than by challenging them. Have a conversation to understand what their ultimate savings goal is, whether it's to buy a new smart device or a toy car. Note the cost of the item and then highlight what they can get if and should they save for an additional 6-12-month period instead of going off to buy their desired object.

  • Help them map out a creative savings plan
  • Just like a budget, help them map out their ideal savings plan, through a savings journal. Be creative, use a scrapbook, highlighters and pictures to map out their savings journey. In their plan highlight the:

  • Desired object
  • Why are they saving for this object?
  • Is it a need or want?
  • Goals or timelines to purchase the object
  • Is it a short or long-term goal?
  • Build a savings tracker that will help them monitor their savings. This tracker can be adapted to suit your child's savings goals:

  • Open a bank account or get a savings or investment vehicle
  • A bank account or investment vehicle is a great way to get your children started on their financial journey. This will also help them understand the concept of finance, savings and investments; and will help in visualising their financial goal. You could look at opening a First National Bank, Future Forward account for your children, for day-to-day savings until they are 18 years old and can take over the account, or even a Fixed Deposit account which can help fund their education in the long-term.

    "Savings is a common topic among all age groups. The reality is that no matter how old you are, you still need a savings plan that will get you through those tough times," Madam Laryea says. "It's easy to put savings off till later, but in reality, an adequate savings plan will help you in the long term."

    Could a job be the first step on your entrepreneurial journey?


    Dreaming of becoming an entrepreneur requires that you unleash the next big idea on the world. Sometimes, after trying and failing to start your own business you may have been forced down a road you didn't imagine is for you: full-time employment. You may even find yourself asking, is this the end of your journey to become the next Kate Quartey-Papafio or Kevin Okyere? Head of Human Resource at First National Bank, Ernestina Danquah asserts, that it is not necessarily the case.

    "If you keep your eyes open and treat a job as a learning experience, there's a huge amount of value to be gained for a budding entrepreneur in the formal work environment." says Ernestina. She shares some of the wins and learnings you will gain if you positively embrace the state of being an employee of someone's business in preparation for yours.

    The employee experience

    When you build your own business your success or otherwise is going to be determined by the people you have around you. You're going to need employees and having been one yourself will give you valuable insight into creating an environment which gets the most out of your people. You'll also learn what good management - and even more importantly - bad people management pitfalls to avoid.

    The boring (but important) stuff

    You might be fixated on the next disruptive innovation, but growing a business involves a lot of less-exciting work. For example, putting in place processes and frameworks. These are important, but they can also be complicated. Knowing what formal structures need to be in place can help your future business survive.

    Working in a successful business can teach you the importance of (for example) keeping separate bank accounts, of having governance and admin functions, of keeping records and updating documents, or of using payroll, accounting, and other software systems. Making a note of systems that could be applicable to your own business will be a huge shortcut when the time comes to grow and scale.

    You'll also learn how to approach risk - not in the entrepreneurial sense of being bold, going out on a limb and not being afraid to fail, but in the sense of protecting what you've worked hard to build by taking out effective insurance to mitigate risk, understanding the importance of registering IP, etc.

    The value of a team

    As tempting as it is to think that you can do everything yourself, being in a job can teach you about the importance of having a team of specialists focused on a common goal. At some stage in your entrepreneurial journey, you're going to need to surround yourself with a team of experts, and the sooner you realise exactly where your strengths are, and where you need support, the better. Pay attention to the work everyone is doing and what makes them good or bad at their job. Notice how bigger organisations are structured, and how it might apply to your future business.

    A financial leg up

    A job is also a useful source of something that's in very short supply when you're starting a business: money. Not only does it allow you to save directly to invest in your dream business but leaning on your personal income could give you an ability to exhibit repayment ability for business funding ; not to mention the ability to build personal assets that may one day come in handy for the business.

    "Aspiring entrepreneurs should not frown upon the valuable skills one builds when they themselves are in formal employment. So, even if your own business is taking time to take off, don't begrudge that first job. Embrace it." Concludes Ernestina.

    First National Bank announces major partnership and headline sponsorship for Accra Marathon


    First National Bank is proud to announce its association with the Accra Marathon as headline sponsor for five years.

    This follows an agreement with the Dansoman Keep Fit Club, organizers of the marathon.

    The new sponsorship package paves the way for the reactivation of one of the most iconic sporting events on the Ghanaian sporting calendar after a six-year hiatus.

    The First National Bank Accra Marathon is yet another demonstration of the bank's commitment to promoting sports, fitness, and nurturing a communal spirit of togetherness.

    The partnership agreement was signed in a brief ceremony at First National Bank's head office at Accra Financial Center.

    "Our partnership for the Accra Marathon reinforces our commitment to supporting initiatives that positively impact the communities we serve," said Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank Ghana, Warren Adams.

    The Chairman of the Dansoman Keep Fit Club, Benjamin Ahulu, thanked First National Bank for the sponsorship package, saying: "We are thrilled to have First National Bank come onboard as the headline sponsor of the Accra Marathon. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to promote community well-being and underscores our commitment to fostering a healthier and more active lifestyle for everyone. We look forward to an incredible marathon event and the positive impact it will have on our city."

    He explained that as the title sponsor, the bank has the unique naming rights of the marathon, now known as the First National Bank Accra Marathon.

    This year's marathon is scheduled to take place in Accra on Saturday, November 11 2023 with four different races or competitions:

    1. 42.2 kilometre run for professional athletes.

    2. 5 kilometre run for Junior high school students.

    3. 10 kilometre run for corporate bodies.

    In addition to the sponsorship, First National Bank will actively participate in various pre-marathon events, kitting and branding as well as drive employee and customer participation in all three events.

    The First National Bank Accra Marathon, under its renewed identity, promises to be a memorable event for all participants and spectators.


    Ghana news

    Hundreds turn up for maiden FNB Accra Marathon


    11 November 2023: Hundreds of runners from across the country are participating in the 2023 FNB Accra Marathon at the Maritime University in Nungua.

     

    Koogo Atia wins maiden FNB Accra Marathon


    11 November 2023: A former student of the University of Education, Winneba, Koogo Atia, has won the men's category of the 42.2-kilometre race of the 2023 FNB Accra Marathon.

     

    FNB Accra Marathon to become a national event


    11 November 2023: The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Yusif, has hinted at plans to make the FNB-sponsored Accra Marathon a national event.

     

    Notice of dormant accounts


    November 2023: Linked is the list of accounts at First National Bank that have not been used for a minimum of five years and have become dormant - Banks and Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930).

     

    Accra Marathon readies kick off with First National Bank as headline sponsor


    13 September 2023: Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank Ghana, Warren Adams and the Chairman of the Dansoman Keep Fit Club, Benjamin Ahulu, share their thoughts on the significance of the Accra Marathon and their commitment to supporting initiatives that positively impact society.

     

    Utilising a job to help propel one towards entrepreneurship


    05 July 2023: Head of Human Resources at First National Bank, Ernestina Danquah, highlights how one can positively embrace being an employee, while slowly preparing to embark on their own entrepreneurial journey in the future.

     

    Temporary hold on foreign exchange licence


    June 2023: First National Bank Ghana has halted processing new and pending forex transactions.

     

    Encouraging a culture of saving funds from a young age


    20 June 2023: Akweley Laryea, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank, touches on the importance of encouraging a savings culture from a young age, to sustain a better financial future.

     

    Make sure your insurance coverage is enough for your family


    07 May 2023: Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank, Madam Akweley Laryea, shares some common insurance-related scenarios that can greatly impact someone's insurance coverage.

     

    Exploring the impact of ChatGPT as a business tool


    20 April 2023: Chief Information Officer at First National Bank, Samuel Dakurah, shares his expert thoughts on the impact of ChatGPT as a business tool and how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is anything but a new concept.

     

    Notice of dormant accounts


    April 2023: Linked is the list of accounts at First National Bank that have not been used for a minimum of five years and have become dormant - Banks and Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930).

     

    Exploring investment portfolios, safekeeping and custodian advantage


    29 March 2023: Kofi Pianim, Head of Global Markets at First National Bank, shares his expert advice on the importance of investment policies having a section regarding safekeeping and custody.

     

    First National Bank's advice-led approach to financial services earns global recognition as Strongest Banking Brand


    6 February 2023: Months after its major brand refresh in South Africa and other subsidiaries, new digital interfaces and a new approach to integrated advice, First National Bank has been named the Strongest Banking Brand in the World in the Brand Finance Banking 500 2023 report. The bank emerged as the leader among the world's 500 largest banks, with an impressive Brand Strength Index score of 93 (out of 100), a AAA+ rating, and a brand value of $1,540 billion.

     

    First National Bank appoints Warren Adams as Chief Executive Officer


    1 February 2023: First National Bank Ghana has announced the appointment of Warren Adams as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Wednesday 1 February, 2023. He takes over from Dominic Adu, who was appointed CEO after the acquisition and subsequent merger with GHL Bank in 2020.

     

    Notice of dormant accounts


    28 October 2022: Below is the list of accounts at First National Bank Ghana that have not been operated for a minimum of five (5) years and therefore remain dormant in accordance with the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930)

     

    Agency Plus transactions soar to USD70 million for First National Bank's African clients


    22 April 2022: Akweley Laryea, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana touches on the stellar growth of First National Bank's Agency Plus service; a safe and convenient way for individuals to deposit and withdraw cash at local shops or registered merchants.

     

    Notice of dormant accounts


    29 April 2022: First National Bank Ghana has published the list of customers with dormant accounts that have not been operated for a minimum of five years advising these customers to contact the bank.

     

    First National Bank awarded Best Investment Bank in Ghana for 2022


    08 March 2022: First National Bank Ghana has been judged the Best Investment Bank in Africa by Global Finance magazine. The award is in recognition of the bank's role in some significant landmark deals, including the assistance that enabled the government to conduct a tender offer on its 2023 notes and raise more than three billion US Dollars in Eurobonds.

     

    Notice of dormant accounts


    29 October 2021: In adherence with the law, First National Bank Ghana has published a list of dormant accounts advising customers of these accounts that have not been in operation for a minimum of five years to contact the bank within two weeks.

     

    Celebrating African unity with an Africa Day concert


    21 September 2021: First National Bank hosted a virtual concert featuring several artists from diverse backgrounds who collaborated to provide Afro-inspired music magic.

     

    First National Bank's new #TheChangeables campaign is here


    Accra, 07 June 2021: With First National Bank's new #TheChangeables campaign in full swing, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs Delali Dzidzienyo shares his views on what embracing change really means for Ghanaians and Africans in the world of business.

     

    The impact of COVID-19 on women


    It was International Women's Day on 8 March 2021. In recognition of the celebration of International Women's Day this week, Hannah Annobil-Acquah, Head of Retail Banking at First National Bank Ghana shares her thoughts on the impact of COVID-19 on women; and how we are learning and evolving as a result.

     

    First National Bank recognised as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand


    First National Bank has retained its position as Africa's Most Valuable Bank Brand for the second year in a row in the 2021 Brand Finance Global 500 Banking report. With brand value of US$1.3 billion, First National Bank is the top performing South African brand among top 200 most valuable bank brands in the world in the 2021 Brand Finance Global 500 Banking ranking.

     

    First National Bank Ghana declares 2021 as the year of home ownership


    22 February 2020: - First National Bank Ghana has declared 2021 as the 'Year of Home Ownership' (YOHO2021) to help make home ownership a reality for many Ghanaians.

     

    Helping Ghanaian businesses with resilience and sustainability lessons


    8 February 2021 - In addition to the extensive business relief efforts provided by the bank to help businesses cope with the challenges of COVID-19, First National Bank has also created a vast range of valuable information and education tools to support owners and managers of businesses of all shapes and sizes during the pandemic.

     

    Four tips on how to be financially savvy this holiday season


    24 December 2020 - With the holidays just around the corner, it's important for consumers to exercise caution and self-discipline when managing their money over this period

     

    First National Bank expects big spike in Black Friday purchases


    24 December 2020 - While the concept of Black Friday is purported to have emerged from the United States of America, it has become quite popular in urban Ghana.

     

    First National Bank crowned the best SME Bank in the world


    24 December 2020 - First National Bank has been named as the SME Bank of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum Virtual awards ceremony held on 27 October.

     

    First National Bank organizes first virtual housing fair in Ghana


    24 December 2020 - First National Bank Ghana, the leading home financing institution in Ghana, is set to host its maiden virtual housing fair in Ghana.

     

    Tips to get your home loan approved


    23 December 2020 - For many first-time home buyers applying for a home loan can often be daunting. Taking time to understand how home loan applications are assessed can go a long way to help you increase the chances of getting approval.

     

    We are ready to meet high demand and interest in home ownership


    23 December 2020 - Ghana's leading mortgage provider, First National Bank has hosted a virtual housing fair to help reduce the country's housing deficit, which current stands at almost two million.

     

    Five things to consider for your estate planning during the festive season


    10 December 2020 - As we reach the end of the year and prepare for much needed rest and relaxation it would be worthwhile to add a few estate planning considerations on your December to-do list.

     

    GFA President pays courtesy call on First National Bank CEO


    Accra - 02 November 2020 - The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt E.S. Okraku has paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive of First National Bank Ghana, Dominic Adu.

     

    First National Bank and Hollard Insurance partner to serve increasing demand for insurance


    Accra - 01 October 2020 - First National Bank Ghana and Hollard Insurance Ghana have announced an exclusive long-term bancassurance partnership in Ghana to jointly serve the fast-growing demand for insurance products and services.

     

    First National Bank address housing needs in Ghana


    August 12, 2020, Accra - First National Bank has reassured Ghanaians of its determination to help address the housing needs in the country, even in the climate of uncertainty generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

    First National Bank introduces new package for SMEs


    With this new package, small and medium businesses can start, run and grow with special transactional capabilities that give them 24/7 access to First National Bank's award-winning enterprise platform, and more.

     

    First National Bank Ghana secures $85M funding from DEG


    DEG has given a total of USD 85 million long-term loan facility to First National Bank Ghana. This is part of its support for financial institutions to widen the access to credit for SMEs and businesses within the real estate value chain in developing countries who may have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

    First National Bank to host Maiden Real Estate Developers Forum

    First National Bank Ghana is set to host its first ever Developers Forum in Ghana on Thursday 6 August 2020. It will be a gathering with real estate developers, construction experts and landowners to discuss the bank's enhanced home loan portfolio, following its recent merger with GHL Bank.

     

    First National Bank Ghana expands reach with more Agency Plus partners

    First National Bank Ghana has announced the introduction of five new Agency Plus partners in Accra, extending accessibility of its products and services to the growing customer base.

     

    Finnfund provides US$10 million loan to First National Bank Ghana to strengthen capacity in Ghanaian financial sector

    Accra, Ghana - 17 August 2020 - Finnfund, a Finnish development finance company and impact investor, has provided a US$ 10 million senior loan to First National Bank Ghana Ltd. One of the key objectives of Finnfund's investment is to support the Ghanaian financial sector and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and in particular, foster affordable housing in the country.

     

    Mortgages in Ghana - the myths and the facts

    Accra, Ghana - 21 July 2020 - If you are renting now, buying a home could be a better financial decision. Of course, that depends on several factors such as; where you live, how much you pay now as rent, an available fit-for-purpose house you can afford, current mortgage interest rates and your aspirations.

     

    First National Bank Appoints First Ghanaian Chief Executive Officer


    Accra, Ghana - 30 June 2020 - First National Bank Ghana has announced the appointment of Dominic Adu as its first Ghanaian Chief Executive Officer, effective Wednesday July 01, 2020. Dominic takes over from Richard Hudson who has served in this position since the inception of the bank five years ago.

     

    Completion of merger between First National Bank Ghana and GHL Bank

    Accra, Ghana - 30 June 2020 - First National Bank Ghana has confirmed the conclusion of the merger with its subsidiary, GHL Bank. The merged entity will be known as First National Bank Ghana.

     

    First National Bank launches ASPIRE against COVID-19 in Ghana

    ASPIRE is a rapid response fund to address the critical and immediate health care needs in Ghana. Richard Hudson, CEO of First National Bank Ghana, explains that ASPIRE will help increase COVID-19 critical test and trace capacity with focus on supporting local medical innovators and entrepreneurs

     

    First National Bank Ghana acquires GHL Bank

    Accra, Ghana - 5th May 2020 - First National Bank Ghana, is pleased to announce that it has acquired hundred percent of GHL Bank. Effective 4th May 2020, GHL Bank will become a subsidiary of First National Bank Ghana.

     

    #RealHelp to cushion customers impacted by COVID-19

    Accra, April 14, 2020 - First National Bank Ghana Limited is introducing a raft of relief packages to help both individual and corporate customers against the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

    'Where to Invest in Africa' is returning to its roots

    Ghana rises 3 places to number 6 as South Africa falls to third place in 2020, read more in Rand Merchant Bank's ninth edition of 'Where to Invest in Africa'.

     

    First National Bank Ghana: A fresh breath of banking innovation

    First National Bank started operating in Ghana a little less than five years ago with one major unique selling proposition: innovation.

     

    First National Bank Ghana appoints Kofi Pianim as Head of Global Markets

    First National Bank Ghana Limited has appointed Kofi Asare Pianim as Head of Global Markets. Mr. Pianim has a wealth of experience, spanning a period of 14 years, in global banking and markets focusing on profitable growth, regulatory and control issues as well as risk in the context of global standards.

     

    First National Bank Ghana Holds Trade Workshop For Clients

    First National Bank Ghana Ltd. has organized a day's workshop for its business and corporate clients to educate and share with them best practices on trade and foreign exchange.

     

    First National Bank Ghana Limited gives financial inclusion a major boost with introduction of agency banking

    Accra - September 16, 2019
    The government's financial inclusion policy has received a major boost from First National Bank Ghana Limited.

     

    Ghana among RMB's 2019 Top 10 Investment Destinations in Africa

    Ghana remains one of the top 10 attractive investment destinations in Africa even after the worst banking crisis in its history.

     

    Giving differently, giving better in the spirit of the season

    In line with our HELP philosophy, we donated to 7 charitable organisations that are doing a fantastic job of making our communities and the world we live in a better place.

     

    Ghana's budget discipline key to Cedi's performance for rest of year

    Further depreciation of Ghana's Cedi in 2019 is limited based on our outlook on key economic indicators and foreign exchange inflows this year.


     

    New Minimum Cap Requirement

    First National Bank Ghana, confirms that its parent FirstRand Limited will meet Bank of Ghana's new minimum capital requirement of Four Hundred Million Ghana Cedis (GHC400,000,000).

     

    Are you spending thoughtlessly because it's Christmas?

    This festive season, many of us may be guilty of spending without thinking, however, if you never pay attention to the money you are spending it can soon lead to real financial problems.


     

    Commercial, Corporate & Investment banking is our forte

    02 November 2018: First National Bank Ghana - Although First National Bank Ghana is only a few years old in Ghana, it is part of one of Africa's biggest and most accomplished banking groups, the South Africa headquartered First Rand Group, which owns Rand Merchant Bank and the First National Bank.


     

    First National Bank leads discussion on Ghana's first Green Bonds

    24 October 2018 - This week, First National Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Environment and other related state agencies will be holding a green bond workshop in Accra.


     

    First National Bank appoints Mark Achiampong as Head of Commercial and Business Banking

    18 October 2018 - This week, First National Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Environment and other related state agencies will be holding a green bond workshop in Accra,.


     

    First National Bank wins Emerging Brand of the year 2017

    First National Bank Ghana has been adjudged the CIMG emerging brand of the year, 2017. The award, according to CIMG, is in recognition of First National Bank's excellence in strategic marketing and brand exposure in Ghana.


     

    First National Bank Ghana launches first-ever Cash Rewards for card swipes

    First National Bank Ghana Limited is delighted to announce the launch of the first-ever cash rewards programme in Ghana that rewards customers for everyday non-cash transactions. Cardholders who use their Visa debit cards to make purchases (transaction on POS machines and online card purchases) will earn back a percentage of the transaction amount.


     

    First National Bank Ghana appoints Hannah Annobil-Acquah as Head, Retail Banking

    Accra, Ghana; 9 January 2018 - First National Bank has appointed Hannah Annobil-Acquah as Head of Retail Banking. Hannah brings on board a wealth of experience in retail banking, having worked in various functions in the sector for over a decade.


     

    First National Bank adjudged the most innovative African Bank

    27 November 2017 - First National Bank, a division of FirstRand group, (which is the largest financial institution in Africa by market capitalisation) has been adjudged The Most Innovative African Bank at the 2017 African FinTech Awards for the second year in a row.


     

    First National Bank set to lead in innovation in the banking industry

    13 October 2017 - First National Bank is promising its customers some exciting times in the months ahead with its innovative products and multiple banking channels. The move the bank explained is to delight its customers and let them enjoy the first-class banking associated with it in countries that it operates.


     

    First National Bank's Geo Payment service is the new way to pay

    09 October 2017 - The move to make payments simple and convenient is evident in First National Bank's Geo Payment offering. A Geo Payment is an electronic payment that enables customers of First National Bank to send and receive money when in proximity to other customers of the bank.


     

    Hello there,

    Did you know that our First National Bank Call Centre provides services that take the weight off your shoulders?
    Contact us and find out how we can help you.

     

    FNB is the most innovative bank in Africa

    African FinTech Awards 2016

    First National Bank (FNB) was honoured last night at the 2016 African FinTech awards by walking away with the coveted title of "Most Innovative Bank in Africa". Part of the annual Finance Indaba, these awards recognize and reward innovative and disruptive FinTech companies that have originated in or are primarily focused on Africa...


     

    First National Bank Ghana delivers first-class digital banking experience

    22 September 2017 - Toma Imirhe and Elorm Desewu examine how one of the latest banks to enter the Ghanaian market is taking a profoundly different approach which stands to change the very nature of bank-customer relationships in the country.