The World Bank (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, IBRD rated Aaa/AAA) has priced its first benchmark of 2023 – an Australian dollar 1.5 billion 5-year bond due January 13, 2028. This 4.40% fixed-rate bond equates to a spread of +81.25 basis points over the Australian government bond due November 2027.

The transaction attracted over 50 orders totaling more than AUD 1.6 billion from investors drawn to IBRD’s high credit quality while supporting the World Bank’s mission.  World Bank Sustainable Development Bonds support the financing of green and social projects, programs and activities in IBRD member countries. 

The joint-lead managers for the transaction are ANZ Banking Group Ltd, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Nomura International plc, and TD Securities.

“We appreciate the strong support for the World Bank by investors in the Australian dollar market,” said Jorge Familiar, Vice President and Treasurer, World Bank. “It’s a great start to 2023 and demonstrates the breadth and depth of global support that the World Bank has among capital market investors eager to support sustainable development activities and the institutions response to the multiple crisis facing people in developing countries.”