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Kazakhstan’s banking ambitions go global
ForteBank is accelerating its transformation into a more diversified and internationally connected financial institution through landmark capital-market deals, alternative-currency financing and strategic acquisitions – reflecting both Kazakhstan’s growing financial sophistication and the rising confidence of global investors in the country
The Presidential Palace in Astana, Kazakhstan 
Banking | Featured
Interview with: Talgat Kuanyshev, CEO, ForteBank
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ForteBank is one of the leading banks in Kazakhstan, serving retail, SME and corporate clients and boasting 21 branches and 71 outlets across the country. The bank’s Chief executive officer is Talgat Kuanyshev, a banking executive with more than 30 years of leadership experience in Kazakhstan’s financial sector. He has led ForteBank through key phases of strategic development and transformation, with a focus on sustainable growth and operational excellence. Kuanyshev spoke to World Finance about the bank’s recent landmark acquisition, a bond issue that made history, and why growing awareness among investors means there is no longer a need to “explain Kazakhstan from the ground up.”
ForteBank acquired Home Credit Bank late last year – what was the rationale behind this acquisition?
The acquisition of Home Credit Bank is a logical step in the execution of our long-term strategy. We were looking for an opportunity to accelerate growth in the retail and consumer segment – an area where Home Credit Bank has built strong expertise and brand recognition. For Forte, this transaction adds a mature retail technology platform and a well-established customer base. By combining the expertise of the two banks, we expand our product offering and strengthen our focus on service quality and reliability.
What benefits will this transaction bring to ForteBank’s clients and shareholders?
For our clients, the key advantage at this stage is continuity: all existing agreements remain valid, and clients of both banks continue to be served under the same terms through the same channels – branches, call centres and digital platforms. In the medium term, clients will gain access to a broader product range, combining Forte’s corporate and premium offerings with Home Credit’s strong consumer lending expertise. For shareholders, the logic is equally clear: we strengthen our market position, build a more resilient and diversified business and create a platform for sustainable growth. This deal is not about scale for the sake of scale – it is about the quality of growth.
Do you expect any challenges during the
The Presidential Palace in Astana, Kazakhstan 
