#Paraguay #Asunción #Ueno Bank #Paraguay Finance #OTP Bank

Ueno Bank's Historic First Half of 2026

Ueno Bank, a prominent player in Paraguay's financial landscape, has announced its most successful first half ever, marking a significant milestone in its operational history. As of July 31, 2026, the bank has reported unparalleled growth, driven by a surge in customer acquisition, expanded corporate lending, and robust backing from international financial institutions.

Customer Expansion

The bank's customer base has skyrocketed to 2.94 million, solidifying its status as the country's largest bank by customer count. This impressive figure represents around 63% of Paraguay's adult population. Since its inception in 2021, Ueno Bank has played a crucial role in integrating over 1.2 million individuals into the formal financial system, thereby enhancing access to a range of financial products and services across the nation.

Corporate Advancements

During this period, Ueno Bank has achieved a significant milestone in the international finance arena. It successfully completed a USD 350 million international bond issuance, the largest ever conducted by a Paraguayan bank in the global capital markets. This achievement not only underscores the bank's growing influence but also its strong ties with international investors and development finance institutions.

In addition, the institution procured USD 171 million worth of new credit facilities aimed at bolstering its operations and lending capabilities. Notably, a part of this capital infusion came from the Development Bank of Austria (OeEB), which executed its inaugural investment in Paraguay through a USD 20 million credit line designed to aid micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), enhance women-led entrepreneurship initiatives, and foster sustainable financial practices.

Increased Capital Base

Ueno Bank's commitment to strengthening its financial foundation is evident with an added USD 88 million boost to its capital base. This increment came from a mix of USD 46 million in capitalized earnings, USD 25 million through tier 2 bonds, and USD 17 million through fresh capital introduced by its strategic shareholder, OTP Bank Plc.

OTP Bank, recognized as one of Europe's leading banking entities, has escalated its investment in U Holdings, Ueno Bank's parent company, to USD 47 million. This strategic move not only fortifies OTP Bank's stake in U Holdings but showcases its confidence in Ueno Bank's growth trajectory.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

Furthering its dedication to sustainable economic growth, Ueno Bank has attracted additional funding from Finance in Motion, via the eco.business Fund, which increased its investment to USD 20 million to support green economy projects and sustainable development initiatives.

Conclusion

Ueno Bank’s stellar performance in the first half of 2026 embodies its robust strategy focused on customer growth and corporate lending while receiving substantial backing from international investment partners. As the largest banking entity in Paraguay, Ueno Bank continues to champion financial inclusion, aiming to support both individuals and businesses, ultimately contributing to the broader economic development of Paraguay.

This upward trajectory not only sets a benchmark in the Paraguayan banking sector but also highlights Ueno Bank’s integral role in driving the modernization and expansion of the nation's financial framework. With unwavering commitment, Ueno Bank aims to remain a catalyst for sustainable growth and financial accessibility in the region.