Lusaka, Zambia – Standard Chartered Bank Zambia PLC has announced a significant bonus share issue aimed at strengthening its capital base in line with the Bank of Zambia’s minimum paid-up share capital requirements.
In a statement released today, the bank said it plans to increase its minimum paid-up share capital from ZMW 416,745,250 to ZMW 520,000,000 through a bonus share issue to existing shareholders. The move is designed to ensure full compliance with regulatory thresholds governing the banking sector.
Under the proposal, Standard Chartered will issue 1 new share for every 4 existing shares, resulting in an increase in the total number of issued shares from 1,666,981,000 to 2,080,000,000. The bonus issue will be implemented using the bank’s reserves, meaning shareholders will not be required to inject new capital.
The bank emphasized that the bonus share issuance is part of its broader strategy to maintain a strong, compliant, and well-capitalized balance sheet, which is crucial for business stability and future growth in Zambia’s increasingly competitive banking environment.
To proceed, the proposal requires the approval of shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for December 17, 2025. Standard Chartered Zambia said the record date, which determines which investors qualify to receive the bonus shares, will be communicated at a later stage.
Market analysts say the decision underscores the bank’s commitment to regulatory compliance and positions it to support expanded lending, digital innovation, and long-term customer growth.
If approved, the bonus issue is expected to enhance liquidity in the stock while reinforcing investor confidence in the bank’s performance and strategic direction.
