The World Bank has raised GBP 1.25 billion through a new six-year sterling-denominated Sustainable Development Bond, supported by strong demand from investors across global markets.
Priced on August 26, 2026, the bond is scheduled to mature on November 15, 2032. It carries an annual coupon of 4.750% and a yield of 4.766%, with the transaction priced at 9.9 basis points above the UK government bond due in June 2032.
Investor demand exceeded GBP 1.9 billion, highlighting continued confidence in the World Bank’s credit quality and sustainable development mission. The bond received strong participation from the United Kingdom, which accounted for 89% of investors, followed by Europe, the Middle East and Africa at 6%, and the Americas at 5%.
Banks, bank treasuries and corporates represented 78% of investors, while asset managers, insurance companies and pension funds accounted for 20%. Central banks and official institutions made up the remaining 2%.
The transaction was led by Barclays, Citi and Santander and will be listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Settlement is scheduled for September 4, 2026.
The successful sterling transaction strengthens the World Bank’s presence in the GBP capital market and provides additional funding capacity for sustainable development activities in its member countries.
World Bank Treasurer Jorge Familiar said strong investor confidence translates into resources that support programmes and projects aimed at improving lives, expanding opportunities and building resilience.
The World Bank, formally known as the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, uses international capital markets to raise funds for development activities. Its Sustainable Development Bonds support financing for development programmes in member countries and are aligned with internationally recognized sustainability bond principles.
