Standard Bank’s exceptional performance in financing, client engagement, and innovative solutions across the continent’s real estate sector earns it the award for Africa’s best bank for real estate. The bank also showcased strong growth in new facilities and in refinances which enables them to maintain the market leader role in the region.
In 2023, Standard Bank demonstrated robust origination and refinancing activity, originating 78 new facilities totalling $1.49 billion and completing 80 refinances worth $944 million. These facilities covered a wide range of structures, from medium-term loans and development financing to revolving credit and short-term loans, supporting various stages of real estate development and investment.
The bank’s broad sector coverage spans industrial, residential, retail, mixed-use, and commercial office spaces, underscoring its ability to cater to the diverse needs of the real estate market. With operations extending across nine countries and loans issued in eight different currencies, Standard Bank has proven its regional expertise and adaptability, offering tailored solutions to meet local market demands.
Strategic client engagement has been a key focus, with the bank defending its asset book while expanding its client base. Standard Bank has also extended its services to non-core real estate clients, offering liquidity and cash optimization solutions, while capitalizing on corporate residential opportunities through local market insights.
Innovation is at the heart of Standard Bank’s real estate success. The bank introduced the Openspace Solution, a cutting-edge reality capture tool that uses 360-degree camera footage to document job site progress. In addition, it automated its credit processes and developed a proprietary workflow system, enhancing decision-making across its 21-country footprint. A cloud-based data system was also introduced for internal valuation activities, providing real-time analysis and improving portfolio management.
Standard Bank’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its completion of nine ESG-qualified deals worth $214 million, leading the way in sustainability-linked financing across Africa. With its robust financial solutions, innovative technology, and strong ESG leadership, Standard Bank continues to set the standard for real estate banking across the continent.
