In a first for ING that underscores its deep capital markets product expertise, the bank has entered into the Islamic debt finance market with a Sukuk issued by Türkiye's sovereign wealth fund TWF.
A Sukuk is a bond-like financial instrument that complies with Sharia law. Instead of earning interest, which is prohibited in Islam, Sukuk holders partially own the underlying asset from which they can earn profits or rental income. This allows for investment and fundraising in a way that aligns with Islamic principles.
Bas Bittink, head of CEEMEA Debt Capital Markets at ING, said:
In recent years, the Sukuk market has gained a significant share of the US$ 250bn annual CEEMEA issuance market. By leading this milestone transaction, ING is in strong position to further capture some of this opportunity and is strengthening its client relationships while developing new sources of financing for both new and existing partners.
The mandate marks ING’s fourth sovereign wealth fund transaction in the region over the last 12 months and its 13th Turkish mandate in 2024 alone, supporting the Wholesale Bank’s growth ambitions and strong network within Türkiye and the Middle East.
Mike Koerkemeier, head of Global Capital Markets at ING, said:
As ING’s Global Capital Markets franchise continues to expand, we remain committed to deepening our product expertise. Acting as active bookrunner for the Türkiye Wealth Fund’s first Sukuk underscores ING’s ability to meet the evolving needs of our clients, particularly in growth markets like Türkiye and GCC, where we see significant opportunities.
The issuance, raising $750 million, signals Türkiye’s increasing participation in Islamic finance markets, attracting diverse global investors. The Sukuk follows TWF’s first conventional Eurobond transaction earlier this year - also supported by ING - and highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to diversify its funding sources.
With the regional dynamic economic growth and the increasing demand for Islamic finance solutions, this issuance is a clear indicator of investor appetite for and confidence in this important asset class, and it marks an excellent reflection of aligning ING’s strong local relationships with global expertise and network.
- Ayşegül Akay, head of Wholesale Banking at ING Türkiye
Proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes and to refinance the existing debt of TWF IFC, a 100%-owned subsidiary that owns and operates the Istanbul Financial Centre.