ANZ has announced its involvement in the initial tranche of the Women's Livelihood Bond 7 (WLB7), a bond issuance by Impact Investment Exchange (IIX). The transaction, valued at US$60 million, includes a US$52.8 million senior tranche and a US$7.2 million first-loss subordinated tranche. It is supported by a 40% guarantee from The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.
The WLB7 aims to empower over 773,000 women and girls in countries such as India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka through various initiatives like financial inclusion and clean energy. The bond aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals and has received certification under the Orange Bond Principles.
Sarah Ng, ANZ Director of Debt Capital Markets, stated: "ANZ has been involved in all seven issuances of the WLB series. Our longstanding support reflects ANZ’s focus on advancing inclusive finance and sustainable development across the region."
Robert Kraybill, IIX Chief Investment Officer, commented: "With WLB7, IIX and partners are not only continuing to break ground in sustainable finance but also breaking barriers for women and gender minorities across emerging markets."
The bond will be listed on the Singapore Exchange and complies with international guidelines for Green, Social, and Sustainability Bonds.
Since its inception in 2017 with WLB1, ANZ's involvement in the series has mobilized close to US$400 million to empower more than 2.6 million women and girls.