Finance Minister Clarifies BML Investor Roadshow Not Intended to Fund Government

Finance and Public Enterprises Minister Moosa Zameer has dismissed claims that the Bank of Maldives (BML) recently conducted international investor meetings to raise funds for the government. The Minister clarified that the initiative was solely aimed at strengthening the bank's institutional capacity and supporting national economic growth. Minister Zameer addressed the issue following allegations on social media suggesting that BML's "non-deal roadshow" was a government fundraising exercise. He characterized these claims as unfounded, emphasizing that the roadshow was a strategic institutional decision made by the bank rather than a directive from the state. Between April 29 and May 8, a BML delegation visited three major global financial hubs—Singapore, Hong Kong, and London. During this period, the bank engaged with international investors to build relationships and explore opportunities to secure financial resources from global investment funds. According to BML, the capital targeted through these international outreach efforts is earmarked for two primary objectives: enhancing the quality and range of services available to customers and increasing financial support for the tourism sector, which remains a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy. Minister Zameer described the roadshow as an essential strategic move to ensure the bank maintains its growth trajectory. By expanding its capital base, BML aims to increase its capacity to provide critical financial assistance to businesses and industries expected to drive the next phase of the Maldives' economic development.