FNB Crowned Africa's Best SME Banking Powerhouse by Global Finance

First National Bank has clinched a top honor as the continent's premier bank for small and medium enterprises, earning the nod from Global Finance in its annual roundup of standout institutions worldwide. This accolade shines a light on FNB's sharp focus on delivering tailored financial tools that help these vital businesses not just survive but scale up amid tough economic headwinds.

The award spotlights banks that truly get the SME world, offering a wide array of products while leading their markets through fresh ideas and customer-savvy strategies. For FNB, it's a testament to its deep bench of expertise in supporting entrepreneurs who drive so much of Africa's job creation and fresh thinking. The bank now backs more than 1.2 million SME customers in South Africa alone, making up the lion's share of its commercial lineup at 93 percent. That footprint stretches across borders too, touching down in nations like Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, and Ghana. Right at home, these enterprises fuel about two-thirds of FNB's commercial revenue, proving their heavyweight role in the bigger economic picture.

Harry Kellan, FNB's chief executive, didn't hold back on the significance of the win. "These businesses form the sturdy spine of Africa's economy," he said. "We're all in on crafting banking options that match their real-life needs, giving them the boost to expand and push through whatever comes their way." He went on to highlight the bank's all-around strengths in loans, savings setups, and everyday transactions, crediting a mix of clever tech and hands-on insight for keeping clients front and center. "It's this full-circle mindset that lets us stand out, turning bold ideas into real progress for entrepreneurs everywhere we operate."

Beyond the headlines, this recognition packs a punch for the everyday hustlers relying on FNB's services. It underscores how the bank is tackling head-on the hurdles African owners face, from cash flow squeezes to navigating volatile markets, all with an eye toward building lasting strength. As SMEs keep proving their worth in sparking growth and opportunity, FNB's fresh crown signals it's locked in as the go-to ally, ready to keep the momentum rolling for a more vibrant business landscape across the continent.