News

Central Asia fintech news

Market updates on regulation, banking products, payments, deals and digital services across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.

Page 2

Kazakhstanis Are Withdrawing Less Cash: First Decline Since the Pandemic

The share of cash in card turnover has dropped to a historic low of 12.1%. This marks the first decline in cash withdrawal volumes since 2020.

ARDFM prepares unified resolution rules for troubled banks in Kazakhstan

The regulator has published a draft resolution intended to consolidate mechanisms for dealing with insolvent financial institutions.

From 15 Million Tenge: What Kazakhstan's Banks Offer Private Banking Clients

The premium service market is expanding beyond a narrow circle of the ultra-rich. We break down the conditions, entry thresholds, and main services for wealthy clients.

Ipak Yuli Bank Increases Credit Line from Islamic Corporation ITFC to $75 Million

The Uzbek bank has expanded its partnership with the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation. The funds will support export-import operations and domestic purchases for small businesses under the Murabaha standard.

Kazakhstani startup UvU.kz raises investment from an Azerbaijani fund at a valuation of over $10 million

The urban mobility platform plans to close its pre-Series A round in June. The funds will be used to expand its fleet in Kazakhstan and export technologies to neighboring countries.

Business Lending in Kazakhstan Grows by 20% Driven by Small Enterprises

The corporate loan portfolio reached 18.3 trillion tenge. Small and medium-sized businesses became the main driver, while lending volumes to large companies are stagnating.

Premium banking in Kazakhstan: entry threshold drops to 15 million tenge

The share of medium-sized deposits is growing, and banks are adapting VIP services for a new audience.

Central Bank of Uzbekistan and Webster University sign memorandum of cooperation

The regulator plans to develop its scientific and analytical potential and implement solutions based on academic research in the financial sector.

UzNIF Lists on the London Stock Exchange: First International Listing of an Uzbekistan National Asset

The National Investment Fund placed global depositary receipts on the LSE, raising $692 million including the overallotment option.

Kazakhstani issuers tested the Chinese capital market

Samruk-Kazyna issued panda bonds at 2.18% per annum — cheaper than Hungary and Sharjah

Kazakhstan Banks Earn Record Profits on High Interest Rates

The sector’s net interest income exceeded 4 trillion tenge, but the main source is not lending to the economy