India’s State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced a $500 million ‘Syndicated Social Term Loan Facility’ dedicated to empowering women, with a greenshoe option. This initiative is significant for both the bank and the global ESG financing landscape, aiming to drive social impact by advancing gender equality and bridging the gender gap. The facility aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5, focusing on achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls.
SBI’s Chairman, C.S. Setty, announced the launch on International Women’s Day, emphasizing the bank’s commitment to women’s empowerment as a crucial element of sustainable development. He highlighted the importance of not only economic growth but also driving positive social change, empowering women, and fostering an inclusive society for all stakeholders. This marks SBI’s first such transaction, expected to be the largest gender-themed loan globally, showcasing India’s increasing role in sustainable finance.
The loan will fund programs and projects across various sectors that promote gender equality and inclusive economic growth. MUFG played a key role in this initiative, serving as the original Mandated Lead Arranger, Underwriter, and Bookrunner, as well as the sole social loan coordinator for the transaction. SBI’s shares closed lower on Friday, reflecting market dynamics.
SBI stands as one of India’s leading mortgage lenders, having helped around 30 lakh Indian families realize their dream of owning a home. The bank’s home loan portfolio has surpassed Rs 9 lakh crore, with a substantial deposit base exceeding Rs 57 lakh crore and advances exceeding Rs 46.8 lakh crore as of December 31, 2025.
