BNP Paribas Sells 67% BMCI Stake to Deepen Morocco Focus

BNP Paribas will exit its Moroccan retail banking business by selling its 67% stake in BMCI to local partner Holmarcom, a deal expected to add 15 basis points to its core capital ratio.

The agreement follows exclusive discussions announced on December 12, 2025. "The Holmarcom Group, a long-standing partner and 30-years shareholder of BMCI, will pursue the bank’s development in Morocco," BNP Paribas said in a statement.

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the deal, including the total sale price and premium to BMCI's current market valuation, were not disclosed. Holmarcom Finance Company will become the majority and controlling shareholder.

The divestment marks a strategic pivot for BNP Paribas, which intends to focus on its more profitable investment banking activities in Morocco. A commercial partnership with Holmarcom will ensure service continuity for corporate clients, signaling a move to a capital-lighter model in the region while retaining a strategic presence.

The sale concludes a months-long process for BNP Paribas, which has been streamlining its operations across Africa to bolster its capital reserves and focus on core activities. The 15-basis-point uplift to its Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio, a key measure of financial strength, provides the French lender with greater balance sheet flexibility. For BMCI, the acquisition by Holmarcom, an established domestic financial player, secures a new majority owner committed to its long-term growth within the Moroccan market. The continuity of service for corporate clients through the new partnership agreement is crucial for both parties to prevent disruption and maintain business relationships built over decades. BNP Paribas has operated in Morocco for over 80 years, and the shift away from retail banking reflects a broader trend among European banks to rationalize their emerging market footprints.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.