Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) Ahmed Munawwar has stated that MMA's Board of Directors have approved the license required for the DBM.
Speaking to a programme aired on PSM News, MMA's Governor Munawwar stated that the research work related license have been completed and has been approved by MMA's Board of Directors. He revealed that the license will be issued to the DBM within this week, expressing optimism to commence its operations soon. Munawwar emphasised the importance of financial institutions for the banking system of the Maldives. As such, he noted that the current banking system is not capable of financing resort developmental projects to promote tourism.
In addition to the DBM, Munawwar highlighted the need to establish an International Financial Centre, aiming to enhance the capabilities of the banking system. He elaborated on this initiative, stating that it will allow projects to be financed through the banking system of the Maldives, rather than relying on international financial support. While MMA will issue the licence to DBM this week, the infrastructural development of the bank is ongoing.
The government decided to develop the DBM, with the primary purpose of establishing this bank is to facilitate investments for sustainable socio-economic development in alignment with governmental policies. It further aims to alleviate challenges in funding Public Sector Investment Programs (PSIP) through syndicated financing and attract global investments in foreign currency through the Maldivian banking system.