The Arrival of Banco BISA from Bolivia: Panama Welcomes Another International Bank
Banco BISA, one of Bolivia’s leading financial institutions, will open an office in Panama after receiving an international license from the Superintendency of Banks of Panama (SBP), which will allow it to join the country’s International Banking Center (IBC). With this authorization, the bank will be able to operate from Panama, carrying out transactions that are completed, finalized, or take effect abroad, in addition to developing other activities permitted under this type of license.
The Superintendency of Banks reported that, with the incorporation of Banco BISA, the International Banking Center now consists of 62 financial institutions, strengthening the presence of entities with a recognized track record in the Panamanian banking market. Banco BISA is part of Grupo Financiero BISA, SA, an organization with more than 60 years of experience in Bolivia and offering a wide range of financial products and services.
Enhancing the Appeal of the International Banking Center
According to the SBP, the arrival of the Bolivian bank represents an additional step in strengthening the International Banking Center, consolidating Panama as a regional platform for the provision of international banking services. The regulatory body highlighted that the Panamanian banking system maintains solid indicators, supported by adequate levels of liquidity, solvency and profitability.
Panamanian Economy Maintains Growth
According to a report from the Superintendency of Banks corresponding to May 2026, the International Banking Center registered a favorable performance in an environment of economic stability. The report indicates that the Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) accumulated a growth close to 5%, while the Panamanian economy registered an increase of 4.8% in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during the first quarter of the year, driven by sectors such as the Panama Canal, commerce, finance and construction.
