Question 1

What is BIIC?

Accepted Answer

BIIC (Banque Internationale pour l'Industrie et le Commerce) is a major commercial bank in Benin formed through the 2020 merger of two established institutions: Banque Africaine pour l'Industrie et le Commerce (BAIC) and Banque Internationale du Bénin (BIBE). With a capital of 82.514 billion FCFA, BIIC has quickly established itself as one of the leading players in the Beninese banking sector.

The bank is characterized by its strength, innovation, and commitment to supporting client ambitions while contributing to national economic development. BIIC's signature slogan, "The bank listens to you", embodies its commitment to customer proximity and service quality.

Question 2

When was BIIC founded?

Accepted Answer

BIIC was created in 2020 through the successful merger of BAIC and BIBE, two banks with complementary strengths in the Beninese market. BAIC itself had been established in November 2015, starting operations with a base capital of 10 billion FCFA.

The merger represented a decisive turning point, creating a new banking entity positioned for growth. BAIC had already increased its capital to 14 billion FCFA in 2017-2018 to comply with Basel II & III regulations before the 2020 merger that created BIIC.

Question 3

Where is BIIC headquartered?

Accepted Answer

BIIC is headquartered in Cotonou, Benin's economic capital and largest city. The bank's main office is located on Boulevard St Michel, at Lot 374 C, in the Littoral Department.

The headquarters building, known as Immeuble BIIC, serves as the central hub for the bank's operations throughout Benin.

Question 4

Where does BIIC operate?

Accepted Answer

BIIC operates throughout Benin with a network of branches and agencies serving both urban and regional markets. The bank maintains its strongest presence in Cotonou, the country's economic center, while also serving customers in Porto-Novo (the administrative capital) and other major cities including Parakou.

The bank's network enables it to serve diverse customer segments across different economic zones within Benin.

Question 5

What services does BIIC offer?

Accepted Answer

BIIC provides comprehensive banking services to individuals, professionals, corporate clients, and institutional customers. The bank offers current and savings accounts, payment services, and a full range of credit products including consumer loans, commercial financing, and project finance.

For businesses, BIIC provides working capital financing, trade finance, and advisory services. The bank actively participates in infrastructure development transactions and public-private partnerships (PPPs), often in syndication with other local banks.

Digital banking is a strategic priority, with BIIC offering mobile banking applications and online banking platforms. The bank provides 24/7 access to account management and transaction services through its digital channels. BIIC also offers securities brokerage and investment services, enabling clients to access regional financial markets.

Question 6

What makes BIIC unique?

Accepted Answer

BIIC's creation through merger gave it immediate scale and market presence, making it one of the most capitalized banks in Benin. The bank has achieved exceptional financial performance, demonstrating both strength and growth trajectory.

As of September 2024, BIIC reported a total balance sheet of 1.5 trillion FCFA, with 847.9 billion FCFA in outstanding credit and 929.7 billion FCFA in resources collected. The bank posted net income of 30.34 billion FCFA, reflecting strong profitability.

BIIC's commitment to entrepreneurship sets it apart, with dedicated teams offering tailored financing, strategic advice, and resources to support entrepreneurs at every stage. The bank views supporting entrepreneurs as essential to stimulating economic growth and job creation. In April 2025, BIIC was admitted to the BRVM (Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières) stock exchange under the symbol BICB, raising a record 100.45 billion FCFA—the largest IPO by a banking establishment in the regional financial market.

Question 7

What type of financial institution is BIIC?

Accepted Answer

BIIC is a universal bank (banque universelle) licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) and supervised by the Banking Commission of UEMOA (Union Économique et Monétaire Ouest-Africaine).

As a universal bank, BIIC is authorized to conduct the full range of banking operations, from retail banking services for individuals to corporate and investment banking activities. This licensing structure allows the bank to serve as a comprehensive financial services provider across all customer segments in Benin's economy.

Question 8

How is BIIC performing financially?

Accepted Answer

BIIC has demonstrated remarkable financial growth since its creation. Between 2021 and 2024, the bank's Net Banking Product (PNB) grew from 14.9 billion FCFA to 45.2 billion FCFA, representing consistent double-digit growth rates.

Net income increased from 5.8 billion FCFA in 2021 to 30.3 billion FCFA in 2024. Earnings per share (BNPA) rose from 100 FCFA to 525.29 FCFA over the same period. The bank's Price-Earnings Ratio (PER) improved from 52.45 to 9.98, reflecting strong market confidence.

BIIC's shareholder structure includes the Beninese government (18.26%), Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations du Bénin (32%), the general public (33%), and Port Autonome de Cotonou (3.4%), demonstrating broad ownership and national character.

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About BIIC in Benin