Question 1

What is First Capital Bank?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank is a commercial bank in Botswana, licensed and regulated by the Bank of Botswana. It is a subsidiary of FMBCapital Holdings Plc, a Mauritius-based financial services conglomerate with operations across Southern Africa.

The bank focuses on servicing small to large-scale independent businesses while also offering a comprehensive range of retail banking services. As of 2022, First Capital Bank maintained total assets of BWP 5.56 billion (approximately US$462 million) and has established itself as a multi-award-winning institution within Botswana's competitive banking sector.

Question 2

When was First Capital Bank founded?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank began commercial operations in Botswana in May 2008, following the issuance of its banking license by the Bank of Botswana. The bank was established by a consortium led by Hitesh Anadkat and his family, in partnership with Prime Bank of Kenya.

The bank was originally known as Capital Bank before rebranding to First Capital Bank as part of its affiliation with the FMBCapital Holdings Group. Since its establishment, the bank has maintained a unique track record of profitability every year, demonstrating resilience even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Question 3

Where is First Capital Bank headquartered?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank is headquartered at First Capital House, 2nd Commercial Road, in the New Central Business District (CBD) of Gaborone, the capital and largest city of Botswana.

The bank moved to this new headquarters on November 30, 2018, as part of its strategic investment in modern infrastructure. The head office serves as both the administrative center and a full-service banking branch for customers in the capital city.

Question 4

Where does First Capital Bank operate?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank operates through a network of five branches strategically located across Botswana:
• Gaborone (two branches: Main Branch on Old Lobatse Road and Broadhurst branch in the New CBD)
• Mogoditshane (serving the Greater Gaborone area)
• Francistown (the second-largest city in Botswana)
• Maun (opened in April 2022 to serve the northern tourist region)

In addition to its branches, the bank operates six consumer service centers (loan centers) across the country and maintains seven automated teller machines (ATMs). The branch network provides coverage of major urban and commercial centers throughout Botswana.

Question 5

What services does First Capital Bank offer?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank provides a full range of banking services in all major currencies:

Corporate and Commercial Banking: Business loans, lines of credit, cash management solutions, corporate accounts, and financing for small to large-scale independent businesses.

Retail Banking: Current accounts, savings accounts, personal loans, mortgages, debit cards (Visa), and investment products.

Digital Banking: Internet banking services (introduced in 2009), mobile banking, and electronic payment systems.

International Services: The bank is a member of SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication), Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system, and the Electronic Clearing House (ECH), enabling international transactions and trade finance.

Foreign Exchange: The bank has been recognized as Best Foreign Exchange Provider in Botswana by Global Finance.

Question 6

What makes First Capital Bank unique?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank distinguishes itself through several key characteristics:

Digital Innovation: The bank was an early adopter of digital banking in Botswana, introducing Internet banking in 2009 and Visa Debit Cards in 2010, demonstrating a commitment to technological advancement.

Regional Backing: As part of the FMBCapital Holdings Group, the bank benefits from regional expertise, shared technology platforms, and resources from operations in Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

SME Focus: The bank has a traditionally strong focus on servicing small to medium-sized enterprises and independent businesses, offering specialized relationship management and tailored financial solutions.

Consistent Profitability: First Capital Bank has maintained profitability every single year since its establishment in 2008, a unique achievement in the Botswana banking sector.

Award Recognition: The bank has received numerous international awards, including Best Foreign Exchange Bank in Botswana (Global Finance, 2021 and 2022) and recognition for excellence in customer service and innovation.

Question 7

What type of financial institution is First Capital Bank?

Accepted Answer

First Capital Bank is a commercial bank in Botswana. As a commercial bank, it is authorized to accept deposits from the public and provide a wide range of financial services to both individual and corporate clients.

The bank operates under the regulatory framework established by the Bank of Botswana, which ensures that only sound and reputable banks can operate in the country. First Capital Bank maintains capital adequacy ratios well above regulatory requirements and adheres to international banking standards, providing stability and security for its depositors and clients.

Question 8

Who owns First Capital Bank?

Accepted Answer

As of December 2021, First Capital Bank's ownership structure includes both local and international shareholders:
• FMBCapital Holdings Plc (Mauritius): 38.60%
• Everglades Holdings (Pty) Limited (Botswana): 32.96%
• Premier Capital Limited (Mauritius): 16.32%
• Prime Bank Kenya: 6.62%
• The Anadkat Family (United Kingdom): 5.50%

This diverse ownership structure combines regional banking expertise with local knowledge and international investment, supporting the bank's strategic growth and stability in the Botswana market.

First Capital Bank

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About First Capital Bank in Botswana