The African Development Bank (AfDB), a leading multilateral development bank, rated Aaa/AAA/AAA, and Nomura, Asia's global investment bank, have finalized the terms of secondary distribution of AfDB's food security bonds to Japanese retail investors. The bonds are denominated in Brazilian Real and have a three-year tenor. This is the first transaction the two organizations have collaborated on in this field. Food security bonds issued by AfDB are underwritten by Nomura and distributed through Nomura's nationwide domestic franchise.
AfDB has placed a special emphasis in agriculture and food security as a way of assisting regional member countries to achieve the objectives of poverty reduction and economic growth. Enhancing agriculture productivity and promoting food security leads to improvements in the lives of people living in African rural areas. By continuing to invest in rural infrastructure (such as rural roads, irrigation, electricity, storage facilities, access to markets, conservation systems and supply networks), the AfDB will help countries increase agricultural productivity and competitiveness.
AfDB will use its best efforts to direct an amount equal to the net proceeds of the issue of these bonds to lending projects within the field of food security, subject to and in accordance with the Bank's lending standards.
Nomura has been promoting financial products for sustainable growth, which are intended not only to generate a return on investment but also to address social and environmental problems.
Through the sale of AfDB's food security bonds, Nomura serves as a bridge to investors who wish to contribute to society through their investments and support food security projects.
About Nomura
Nomura is an Asia-based financial services group with an integrated global network spanning over 30 countries. By connecting markets East & West, Nomura services the needs of individuals, institutions, corporates and governments through its three business divisions: Retail, Asset Management, and Wholesale (Global Markets and Investment Banking). Founded in 1925, the firm is built on a tradition of disciplined entrepreneurship, serving clients with creative solutions and considered thought leadership.
