Vista Group, a financial services holding company with a mission to become a leading global pan-African banking institution, has received approval from the French banking regulator, ACPR, to establish Vista Bank in France.
Vista Bank France is set to launch in the second half of 2025, marking the group’s first banking operation outside Africa and its first greenfield bank since acquiring several former French banks operating in Africa. Over recent years, Vista Group has pursued an ambitious growth strategy, acquiring the African subsidiaries of BNP Paribas and Société Générale in multiple countries.
Mr. Simon Tiemtore, Chairman of Vista Group Holding, stated:
“The establishment of Vista Bank in France is a significant milestone in Vista Group’s global expansion strategy and underscores our position in the global financial market.”
“Our operation in France represents the beginning of our gateway to the global market, strategically supporting Vista Bank’s growth across the African continent by offering correspondent banking services, corporate banking, international trade finance, factoring, foreign exchange and treasury management, and advisory services.”
“Vista Bank in France will greatly benefit African businesses by driving trade, supporting the economies of the countries where we operate, and accelerating trade growth towards Africa.”
“This strategic expansion is a testament to our unwavering belief in Africa’s potential and our dedication to unlocking opportunities for our clients and the continent.”
Vista Bank France exemplifies Vista Bank’s mission to transform Africa’s financial landscape and reaffirms its commitment to empowering African businesses on the global stage.
About Vista Group
Vista Group, owned by Lilium Group LLC, offers a comprehensive range of innovative banking products, solutions, and services accessible to all, including individuals, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), corporations, and governments. The group fosters financial inclusion, economic growth, and prosperity in the countries where it operates.
Vista Group is a financial services holding company building a world-class pan-African group of financial institutions to contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion in Africa. It has established strategic partnerships with various global financial institutions to drive its growth strategy, focusing on SMEs (SME banking, leasing, factoring, meso-finance, women’s banking, etc.), trade and supply chain financing, corporate banking, and bancassurance services. Through these partnerships, Vista Group aims to increase profitability, reduce operational costs, and mitigate risks.
Vista Group remains dedicated to maximizing opportunities in its respective markets, aspiring to become the financial institution of choice through its innovative banking and insurance products.
