Finance / Zimbabwe

“We are looking to partner with a Chinese bank.”

ZB Financial Holdings (ZBFH) boasts one of the country’s widest networks with its commercial bank operating over 50 branches.

How have profits improved?
In the first half of this year we registered $4,1 million profit. This success is due to focusing on three key areas that generate revenue for us: Banking, reinsurance and life assurance. We used to run a conglomerate type of operation, but that it is no longer viable.

What are the group’s key competitive advantages?
Technology is critical, which we have started investing in. We have brought in a new ATM system. We are also going into digital channels that will allow us to compete head-on with the mobile networks. We now provide mobile banking through our branches. And you have talent. Through rebalancing exercises, we put the right people in the right positions.

How are you looking to attract new sources of capital?
We have a compelling case for investors looking for players in the financial sector. We have the people and the technologies. We have a culture of hard work, too. We are looking to partner with a Chinese bank. Chinese investors should look to our bank as an investment opportunity.