Oromia Bank Lowers Loan Interest Rate

Apr 12 , 2020


[ssba-buttons]

Oromia International Bank has lowered the interest rate on loans as part of its move toward easing the burden on businesses due to the economic slowdown caused by the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The Bank temporarily slashed the interest rate by 0.25pc to 3.45pc for certain business sectors. It also waived fees that had been imposed on loan rescheduling, early settlement charges as well as ATM transactions. Commitment and arrangement fees have been also lifted temporarily. The new adjustments are aimed at mainly easing the burden on the tourism sector, hotel services and horticulture, according to Teferi Mekonnen, acting president of the Bank. The Bank is also granting a grace period for borrowers that are facing difficulties in repaying their loans, according to the president. Oromia also reduced the commission that is typically charged to extend purchase orders and letters of credit from 3.75pc to 2.65pc. A week ago, the Bank donated five million Birr to the national committee that is mobilising funds to ward off the potential spread of COVID-19.


Radar

NBE Expands Diaspora Warning Over Unlicensed Remittance Firms

The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has issued an expanded public warning targeting unlicensed remittance operators abroad, flagging four U.S.-based companies it says are undermining Ethiopia's financial regulations. The warning includes newly disclosed findings and specific cases that underscore growing concerns about illicit cross-border financial activity. Remittance flows remain a vital lifeline for Ethiopia's economy, supporting households and supplying critical foreign currency. But as...


Radar

Stricter Standards Unveiled for Public Auditors, Accounting Firms

The Accounting & Auditing Board of Ethiopia (AABE) has issued a new directive aimed at strengthening oversight and professional standards in the accounting and auditing sector. Grounded in the Financial Reporting Proclamation, the directive addresses long-standing regulatory gaps while preparing the sector for the country's emerging capital market. Key provisions introduce stricter licensing standards for public auditors, professionals permitted to audit public interest entities. Applican...


Radar

Export Recovery Gains Ground, Industry Still Lags Potential

The Ministry of Industry (MoI) has reported a modest rebound in Ethiopia's manufacturing exports, with revenues climbing eight percent in the 2025 fiscal year to reach 318 million dollars. Minister Melaku Alebel attributed the growth to a gradual sectoral recovery but acknowledged the figures remain well below the country's industrial potential. Speaking at a forum held with 60 top-performing manufacturers, Melaku said the ministry is working to unlock bottlenecks and improve coordination. Th...