Clifford Chance Advises on Affin Bank’s $300M USD Bond Debut.
Clifford Chance has advised Affin Bank Berhad on its debut in the US dollar bond market, a US$300 million offering under a broader US$2 billion Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) programme. The 5.112% notes, maturing in 2030, are listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
The issuance marks a strategic step for Affin Bank in diversifying its funding sources and strengthening its presence in global capital markets. It is the second US dollar bond issuance by a Malaysian bank this year, following AmBank’s debut, also advised by Clifford Chance.
Clifford Chance partner Gareth Deiner, who led the deal, noted a rising interest among Southeast Asian financial institutions in international capital markets.
“Affin Bank’s successful debut in the US dollar bond market reflects a growing trend among Malaysian financial institutions seeking to capitalise on international funding opportunities. Given current market conditions, we anticipate an increasing number of issuers from this region, whether financial institutions or corporates, as they look to diversify funding sources and tap into the robust demand for ASEAN credit.”
Mr. Deiner was joined on the matter by Claire Neo (Counsel) and Chak Ching Lau (Associate), forming a tight-knit team experienced in cross-border finance.
Affin Bank views the issuance as a strategic move aligned with its long-term objectives, with strong investor demand reflecting market confidence in its direction.
Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President and Group CEO of Affin Group, said the strong interest from international investors reinforces confidence in the bank’s foundation and future.
“AFFIN’s debut in the USD bond market marks a significant progression in our capital
markets strategy, drawing strong global investor demand. The overwhelming response underscores investor confidence in our fundamentals and validates the credibility we have established.”
“Guided by the AFFIN Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Plan, the Group remains committed to unlocking long-term value through Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking With Impact.”
Affin Bank Berhad is a leading Malaysian financial services group established in 1975 and headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Through its core subsidiaries—Affin Islamic Bank, Affin Hwang Investment Bank, and Affin Moneybrokers—the Group provides a wide range of services across community, enterprise, corporate, and investment banking, as well as treasury solutions. With 134 branches nationwide as of early 2025, Affin Bank is guided by its customer-first philosophy, “Always About You,” and remains focused on digital innovation, responsible banking, and long-term value creation.
Clifford Chance is a global law firm with over a century of history and a presence in 23 countries through 34 offices. A member of the prestigious Magic Circle, the firm is recognized for its deep expertise in banking, corporate law, finance, dispute resolution, and tax. It advises a broad spectrum of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, governments, and not-for-profits by combining international best practices with local market insight. Known for its collaborative culture and forward-thinking approach, Clifford Chance delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions across every major industry and sector.
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