International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group and Bank Pekao S.A. (Bank Pekao), have launched the first step in a long-term partnership, under which IFC is considering investing up to $250 million in a series of bonds to be issued by Bank Pekao. The potential investments, subject to commercial terms, relevant corporate approvals and market conditions, would strengthen the bank’s financing capacity and contribute to the resilience of Poland’s banking sector, while supporting sustainability objectives.
The proceeds will be fully earmarked for green projects, with a portion directed to blue finance such as improving water efficiency. IFC’s involvement will help Bank Pekao grow its climate portfolio and expand access to financing for Polish companies, supporting projects in energy-efficient transport and buildings, sustainable water use and wastewater management.
"At Bank Pekao we are proud to support Polish companies in their green transition. This partnership with IFC allows us to channel significant resources into projects that reduce negative impact on the climate, improve water management efficiency, and accelerate Poland’s journey toward a sustainable future," said Dagmara Wojnar, Vice President of the Management Board, Bank Pekao S.A.
"Investing in blue and green finance is not only about the environment, but also about strengthening the competitiveness of our clients. By financing innovative projects in clean energy and water efficiency, we help businesses grow in a way that benefits the entire economy," said Robert Sochacki, Vice President of the Management Board, Bank Pekao S.A.
“This landmark cooperation supports one of Poland’s key priorities: strengthening the resilience of its banking sector,” said Ines Rocha, IFC Division Director for Europe. “By partnering with a systemically important bank like Pekao, we can help unlock capital that reinforces financial stability while also generating positive environmental impact.”
IFC has been supporting private sector development in Poland for over 30 years. In fiscal years 2024 and 2025, IFC invested and mobilized $1.8 billion, fostering innovation, accelerating the sustainable transition, and expanding access to capital for firms.
About IFC
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. IFC works in more than 100 countries, using its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
About Bank Pekao S.A.
Bank Pekao S.A., founded in 1929, is one of the largest financial institutions in the CEE region and the second largest universal bank in Poland, with assets of PLN 340 billion. The bank has the second largest branch network in the country. It is a leader in corporate banking, serving every second among largest corporates in Poland. Pekao holds a prominent position in the market for asset management, brokerage services, and private banking. The diversified business profile of Bank Pekao is supported by a market-leading balance sheet and risk profile, reflected in the lowest risk costs, strong capital ratios, and resilience to macroeconomic conditions (Pekao is the most resilient bank in Europe, taking first place in the stress tests conducted by the EBA in 2025 among 64 banks). Since 1998, Bank Pekao has been listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange and has been a member of several local indices (including WIG 20 and WIG) as well as international indices (including MSCI EM, Stoxx Europe 600, and FTSE Developed). Pekao is among top dividend-paying companies listed in Warsaw, with a total shareholder pay-out of above PLN 20bn over the past 10 years.
