Banco Interatlântico: Visionary in Regional Economic Empowerment Cape Verde 2025

Banco Interatlântico plays a pivotal role in strengthening Cape Verde’s economy by focusing on financial inclusion, sustainable growth, and community empowerment. As the fourth largest bank in the country with around 11 to 12 percent market share in deposits, it has carved out a distinctive niche by concentrating on private individuals and household lending, where it ranks third in the market. The bank supports low-income citizens, women, and young entrepreneurs through tailored microcredit initiatives, including programmes co-developed with the Portuguese and Cape Verdean governments. These facilities, with maximum disbursements of 500 euros, are designed to encourage self-employment and foster resilience within communities. Banco Interatlântico recognises the lower credit risk presented by women-led ventures and offers preferential pricing to incentivise their pursuits. Beyond domestic operations, the bank supports the Cape Verdean diaspora by facilitating remittances and small-scale investments in housing and businesses, thereby sustaining livelihoods and strengthening ties. Partnerships with the IMF, World Bank, and IFC reinforce its credibility and enhance the impact of poverty-reduction initiatives. The institution is also advancing digital innovation, being the first in Cape Verde to implement qualified electronic signatures, enabling clients, particularly those abroad, to transact remotely. Sustainability is another strategic pillar, with the bank aligning with Caixa Geral de Depósitos’ objectives, hosting conferences, and pioneering initiatives to encourage corporate adoption of sustainable finance. The Capital Finance International (CFI.co) Judging Panel congratulates Banco Interatlântico on winning the 2025 Visionary in Regional Economic Empowerment Award (Cape Verde).