The country’s five leading commercial banks – Bank of Georgia, TBC Bank, Liberty Bank, Terabank and Basisbank – will implement the Nasdaq Calypso system within a common infrastructure covering the full trading cycle. The initiative, implemented under the Georgian Financial Markets Development Program (GMAP) and coordinated by the Georgian Financial Markets Treasuries Association (GFMTA), represents an important milestone in the development of Georgia’s capital markets.The five participating commercial banks represent the largest share of the assets of the Georgian commercial banking sector. Their transition to a common, internationally recognized platform is an important step towards establishing Georgia as a modern and well-managed financial market.It is worth noting that over the past 5 years, the Georgian commercial banking sector has been characterized by double-digit growth, with total assets approaching USD 38 billion - which speaks volumes about the scale and dynamism of the country's financial system. Along with the growth of the sector, the demand for more complex treasury infrastructure capable of supporting securities and derivatives markets, managing corporate-level risks, and meeting increasingly stringent regulatory standards has increased. At the same time, the investment required to implement and support such infrastructure at the level of individual institutions represents a significant challenge for any individual bank. A common, coordinated approach, involving the sharing of resources and expertise across the sector, is the most effective way to achieve this goal at scale.According to Natia Turnava, President of the National Bank of Georgia, the modernization of Georgia’s treasury infrastructure is a strategic priority of the National Bank of Georgia and an important step towards the further development of the country’s financial system. She said that, with the support of the National Bank of Georgia, the common platform will provide the reliable, international-level infrastructure needed to support the further growth of the banking sector.“By moving Georgia’s five leading commercial banks to a single, internationally recognized platform, we are contributing to raising the standard of risk management, regulatory oversight and operational sustainability across the sector. This initiative reflects our aspiration to create a strong and transparent financial market that is fully compliant with international best practices and supports Georgia’s economic growth,” said Natia Turnava, President of the National Bank of Georgia.According to Magnus Haglind, Head of Capital Markets Technology at Nasdaq, Georgia is a shining example of how a shared infrastructure model can create real value.“Both for individual institutions and for the financial system as a whole. Drawing on Nasdaq’s experience in managing large-scale modernization programs, companies gain access to deep institutional knowledge and development opportunities without having to shoulder the full costs, risks or operational complexity on their own. GMAP is precisely the kind of structured, country-level framework that ensures the success of a transformation of this scale. We are pleased to have the opportunity to support the National Bank of Georgia in this initiative and help the Georgian banking sector establish the infrastructure it needs for the next stage of growth,” Magnus Haglind noted.According to Lasha Jugeli, Executive Secretary of the Georgian Financial Markets and Treasury Association, the Georgian Financial Markets Development Program (GMAP) is the result of many years of focused coordination in the Georgian banking sector and represents a turning point for the association and the financial institutions represented in it.“With the help of Nasdaq’s global expertise, the shared infrastructure with the institutional support of the National Bank of Georgia, as well as the project management funding allocated through the Japan-EBRD Cooperation Fund, our member banks are not only modernizing their operational and financial operations, but also collectively raising the standard of treasury management across the sector. We are proud to have played a central role in the implementation of this initiative and look forward to the real benefits that this project will bring to our members and the local financial markets as a whole,” he said.

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In the second quarter of 2026, the share of EU countries in international travel revenue was determined at 17.7% and amounted to 194.9 million USD - an increase of 12.1% compared to the same period last year.According to statistics, revenues from Azerbaijan, Ukraine and Armenia have increased by 10.3%, 49.8%, 5.6% annually and, respectively, are equal to 59.5, 53.7, 39.9 million USD. Against the backdrop of the war in the Middle East, revenues from travel from Israel and Iran have decreased by 3.0% and 65.1% annually, to 123.8 and 10.2 million USD, respectively.

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According to the National Bank of Georgia's monthly review, in May, compared to the previous month, the average exchange rate of the lari against the US dollar strengthened from 2.6955 to 2.6806 (by 0.6%), and against the Euro from 3.1481 to 3.1315 (0.5%).At the end of May, the official exchange rate of the lari against the US dollar and the Euro amounted to 2.6693 and 3.1079. During this period, the maximum exchange rate value was 2.6916, the minimum - 2.6693 (04/2026 - 2.70%, 2.69%, respectively). In April, the GEL strengthened by 0.9% against the dollar, but it strengthened less against the Euro, depreciating by 0.1%.

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At the same time, TBC Uzbekistan has been recognised as Central Asia’s Best Digital Bank by Euromoney, as well as winning three country-level awards: Uzbekistan’s Best Digital Bank, Best for Consumer Lending and Best Digital Bank for SMEs.In addition, Global Finance has recognised TBC Georgia for its innovative use of artificial intelligence in consumer banking. The bank received three regional awards: Best AI Chatbots and Virtual Assistants, Most Innovative Use of AI in Consumer Lending and Credit Risk, and Best AI in Risk Management in CEE.“These awards recognise the strength of our customer propositions in both Georgia and Uzbekistan, as well as the progress we are making across customer experience, digital banking, corporate and investment banking, consumer lending and the application of artificial intelligence. Our recognition as the best digital bank in both Georgia and Uzbekistan, and at the regional level in Central Asia, demonstrates the strength and scalability of our digital capabilities across the Group. By continuously redesigning customer journeys, expanding our digital ecosystems and deploying AI responsibly across customer service, lending and risk management, we are making financial services faster, simpler and more seamless, while maintaining robust risk management standards”, -  Vakhtang Butskhrikidze, CEO of TBC Group, said.

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In addition to the financing, the partnership includes a technical assistance component that will support Crystal's institutional development through the implementation of key strategic projects, reinforcing the bank's operational capabilities and long-term growth.Ilia Revia, General Director of Crystal, commented: " This agreement is another important step in our partnership with FMO. Over the past ten years, FMO been a majorpartner, supporting Crystal at different stages of its development. As we continue to grow as a microbank we are focused not only on growing our business, but also on strengthening our institution and creating long-term value for our clients and stakeholders. This financing will allow us to expand access to funding for Georgian entrepreneurs while accelerating our commitment to sustainable finance."Ruhi Cosgun, Manager Financial Institutions at FMO, said: “Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are a vital driver of economic growth, job creation, and resilience in Georgia. Through this USD 20 million facility, we are supporting Crystal’s efforts to expand access to finance for entrepreneurs across the country, while also increasing the availability of green finance solutions. Our partnership with Crystal has grown steadily over almost a decade, and we are pleased to continue working together to strengthen financial inclusion and support sustainable private sector development in Georgia. The accompanying technical assistance will further enhance Crystal’s institutional capacity, helping the bank deliver long-term impact for its clients and the communities it serves.”About FMOFMO is the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank. As a leading impact investor, FMO supports sustainable private sector growth in developing countries and emerging markets by investing in ambitious projects and entrepreneurs. FMO believes that a strong private sector leads to economic and social development and has a 55+ year proven track-record in empowering entrepreneurs to make local economies more inclusive, productive, resilient and sustainable. FMO focuses on three sectors that have high development impact: Agribusiness, Food & Forestry, Energy, and Financial Institutions. With a total committed portfolio of EUR ~15 billion spanning over 85 countries, FMO is one of the larger bilateral private sector development banks globally. For more information: please visit www.fmo.nlAbout Microbank CrystalFounded in Georgia, Crystal is recognized as one of the country’s leading financial institutions, known for its sustained growth and robust reputation. On February 12, 2025, the company officially received its microbank license from the National Bank of Georgia. With 27 years of experience, a loan portfolio of over 600 million GEL, a team of more than 1,000 employees across 47 branches, and a client base exceeding 100,000 individuals nationwide, Crystal continues to be a key player in Georgia’s financial landscape. The company maintains strategic partnerships with major international and local financial institutions.

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Remittances of Zolotaia korona increased by 3%, up to $66 million (06/2025 - 64 million).According to the National Bank of Georgia, in total, up to $348.3 million were transferred in the reporting month. The largest amount - $66.2 million from the USA.As of 01.07.2026, the USA leads the ranking of donor countries with a 19% share, although the annual growth rate is + 174%Y.Y. Tajikistan is ahead of everyone. May's favorite was China +3.038%Y.Y.

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Khutsishvili elaborated on the vast trade and investment potential between the two countries, expressing confidence that the bilateral business forum would be instrumental in driving private sector growth.The Finance Minister highlighted the economic policies implemented by the Georgian government, which have yielded an average annual growth rate exceeding 9.3% over the past five years, with growth standing at 7.8% for the first five months of this year. He noted that Georgia’s fiscal indicators remain highly robust: by the end of 2025, the current account deficit had narrowed to an historically low 2.6%, while the fiscal deficit fell to 1.4%, keeping public debt at a low and safe level.“Our successful fiscal and economic policies have enabled us to allocate 7% to 8% of our GDP to capital expenditure over the past decade. This has allowed us to deliver critical infrastructure, including the East-West Highway, new power transmission networks, and the modernisation of our railway infrastructure. Upgrades of this scale play an indispensable role in securing the connectivity and expanding the capacity of the Middle Corridor,” the Finance Minister stated.During his speech, Khutsishvili also emphasised the significance of regional-scale infrastructure projects and outlined the prospects for developing an energy-focused Middle Corridor.“Georgia is actively working on the Black Sea Submarine Cable project. This initiative will connect the South Caucasus power grid to the European energy network via Georgia, unlocking entirely new opportunities for the region. In turn, this will offer Central Asian nations a unique avenue to transform a new, dedicated ‘Energy Middle Corridor’ into a reality through these joint connectivity projects,” Khutsishvili concluded.

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The facility will support financing for the MSME segment in Georgia, with a strong focus on agricultural, rural, and youth sub-borrowers. Furthermore, at least 30% of the total funding amount will be allocated to green projects, reinforcing TBC Group’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth. In this landmark transaction, FMO acted as Mandated Lead Arranger and will continue to serve as Facility Agent. The syndicate reflects a blend of newly established and enduring financing relationships, bringing together leading Gulf-based financial institutions such as Mashreq Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), and Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), together with long-standing partners Commerzbank and BlueOrchard Microfinance Fund (BOMF). The facility represents the largest senior syndicated financing arranged by FMO not only in Georgia but also the broader region to date, underscoring the depth of international investor confidence in the country's financial sector. George Tkhelidze, CEO of JSC TBC Bank, said: “We are pleased to have secured the landmark facility with six leading international financing partners under the lead arrangement of FMO. This transaction further reinforces TBC’s already robust liquidity position and supports its long-term sustainable growth strategy, with a continued strong emphasis on inclusive financing, which remains a shared objective across the syndicate. Our relationship with FMO has spanned nearly two decades and this latest benchmark transaction reflects the continuity of our long-standing partnership. We are also delighted to welcome new institutional investors into the syndicate, which provides a strong platform for further collaboration going forward. We would like to sincerely thank FMO for arranging this transaction, as well as all syndicate members for their trust and valuable contribution. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation in the future. Huib-Jan de Ruijter, Co-Chief Investment Officer at FMO, said: “We are proud to have led this landmark transaction for TBC Bank, reflecting the strength of our long-standing partnership and continued confidence in Georgia’s financial sector. This facility demonstrates our commitment to mobilizing private capital for development, bringing together a diverse group of international investors. The successful syndication, including strong participation from Gulf-based institutions despite a complex geopolitical environment, highlights the resilience of high-quality opportunities in the region. By supporting MSMEs, alongside dedicated financing for green projects and underserved segments such as rural and youth entrepreneurs, the facility will contribute to inclusive and sustainable growth in Georgia.

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According to Georgia’s Ministry of Finance, the meeting focused on trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, as well as projects of regional importance.The parties emphasized the importance of deepening partnership in the transit and logistics sectors. Discussions also covered the development prospects of the “Middle Corridor” and the need to further enhance connectivity opportunities.The Finance Minister briefed the guest on Georgia’s current macroeconomic indicators and medium-term forecasts.“For his part, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan spoke about Turkmenistan’s key economic indicators. At the end of the meeting, the sides expressed hope that the visit of the President of Turkmenistan to Georgia would contribute to promoting trade and investment between the two countries,” the Ministry of Finance said.

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Previously, customers had to visit the websites of individual banks to compare payment service fees, exchange rates, and deposit offers. The new platform consolidates this information, reducing the time and effort required to evaluate different products.The platform enables users to: Compare fees for payment account services offered by different commercial banks; Filter products based on selected criteria and compare banking offers; Access up-to-date exchange rates published by commercial banks; Use calculators for payment services, deposits, card transactions, and currency exchange to estimate costs; Compare effective deposit interest rates and identify the most suitable savings option.Speaking at the presentation of the platform, NBG Governor Natia Turnava said the initiative represents another important step toward improving consumer access to financial information and promoting informed decision-making.“The new functionality allows consumers to compare the terms offered by different banks in one place and make informed choices. This initiative will improve access to information while strengthening transparency and healthy competition in the banking sector,” Turnava said.The presentation was attended by representatives of commercial banks, microbanks, microfinance institutions, payment service providers, project partners, and invited guests.According to the central bank, the platform allows users to compare both individual payment service fees and bundled service packages. It also displays the cost of related services and separately calculates recurring charges, making it easier to assess the total cost of banking services.Users can search for information using various filters, including the type of service, delivery channel—such as a branch, internet banking, or mobile banking—and the preferred currency. The platform is designed for both individual and corporate customers.The website also includes several financial calculators. A basic calculator estimates the fee for a specific transaction, while an advanced calculator projects a user’s total annual banking costs based on selected services and usage patterns.A dedicated card transaction calculator estimates the cost of using a bank card abroad by taking into account foreign exchange conversions, exchange rates, applicable commissions, and the card issuer’s conversion fees, helping users identify the most cost-effective payment card.The platform also provides real-time comparisons of commercial banks’ exchange rates. Users can enter a desired amount to compare offers from different banks, while the currency conversion calculator estimates the outcome of a transaction and helps identify the most favorable exchange rate.In addition, the website provides information on the effective interest rates offered on commercial bank deposits, reflecting both the interest earned and all associated mandatory costs. Users can compare deposit products using a range of filters to find the option that best suits their needs.The National Bank noted that all information displayed on the platform is based on data submitted by commercial banks and may be updated at any time. Consumers are therefore advised to verify current exchange rates and service conditions with their chosen financial institution before completing any transaction.

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