Banca Transilvania Group expands into the Republic of Moldova

Victoriabank, part of the Banca Transilvania Financial Group, has taken the first step today toward a new acquisition in the Republic of Moldova, in the microfinance sector. Representatives of Victoriabank and Microinvest, the market leader in microfinance in Moldova, signed an agreement in Chisinau through which Victoriabank will acquire Microinvest.   The new acquisition will support the growth of Victoriabank, the third-largest bank in the Republic of Moldova, by diversifying its offerings, bringing in a large number of new clients, and gaining expertise in microfinance.   Microinvest is the largest non-bank lending company in Moldova, with a solid market share, 40,000 clients (both individuals and legal entities), 350 employees, and 17 branches. It provides financing for SMEs, agribusinesses, as well as clients’ personal plans.   “Microfinance is a key niche for the Banca Transilvania Financial Group, developed through BT Mic, BT Direct, and Banca Transilvania. We aim to replicate in Moldova the success we’ve had in Romania in supporting clients through microfinance and in the area of acquisitions,” said Bogdan Plesuvescu, Deputy CEO, Banca Transilvania.   “The acquisition of Microinvest reflects Victoriabank’s strategy of growth through acquisitions. Microinvest has always been a company we admired for redefining microfinance in Moldova with innovative products and strong client relationships. We appreciate its success, the professionalism of its team, and its positive impact on the local economy,” said Levon Khanikyan, President of Victoriabank.   “We are honored by the trust placed in us and see this change as an opportunity to accelerate our impact on Moldova’s economy. Microinvest remains true to its mission – to provide accessible, personalized, and responsible financing throughout the country. The support of a strategic shareholder like Victoriabank, part of the Banca Transilvania Financial Group, strengthens our ability to innovate, expand our range of financial products, and get closer to clients across all regions,” said Dmitrii Svinarenco, CEO of Microinvest.   The transaction will be finalized after obtaining approvals from regulatory and supervisory authorities in both Romania and Moldova. Until then, Microinvest will continue to operate independently.   Banca Transilvania Group collaborated with legal and financial advisors from both Romania and Moldova—Filip & Company, Vernon | David and Associates, and PWC—for the evaluation and preparation of the transaction.   Victoriabank recently completed its merger with BCR Chisinau, marking the successful conclusion of Banca Transilvania Group’s first acquisition in the Republic of Moldova.