Republic Financial Holdings Ltd. Supports Fight Against COVID-19

Georgetown, Guyana, Tuesday, April 1, 2020: Republic Financial Holdings Limited has announced that the Group will be making a contribution of the equivalent of US$2 million collectively across all territories in which it operates, namely, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Guyana, Barbados, Ghana, Suriname, Cayman Islands, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Maarten, Anguilla and Dominica.

In making the announcement, President & CEO of the Group Nigel Baptiste, stated that “The full extent of the human tragedy that is unfolding before our eyes is epochal. While the Group is committed to helping our customers survive the economic impact, there is so much more that is needed to be done at the society level. No country is immune from this virus and given our preference for open economies, we all must be interested in what happens elsewhere. Management of this virus requires global collective responsibility.”

The pledge of the equivalent of US$2 million across all its territories, falls under the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference programme, and is being specifically targeted to address some of the key immediate requirements in the fight against COVID-19. The funding is targeted to assist with the purchase and provision of critical needs such as ventilators, PP equipment, testing kits, food and supplies for the health care workers as well as supporting the all-important social distancing messages.

Members of the Republic Group have already taken numerous steps to safeguard the wellbeing of their customers and staff, while ensuring the provision of essential banking services. The Group has also reached out to its customers to provide cash flow relief to those affected by the disruption brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Of this total, an amount of G$31,500,000 is earmarked for Guyana. Amral Khan, Managing Director of Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited remarked that “this pandemic comes at a very challenging time for the people of Guyana and its economy. Given that much needs to be done, we are optimistic that our contribution will have a positive impact, thereby minimising the number of cases in Guyana and inspiring others in the corporate community to make similar generous contributions to support this fight for life".

The Group recognises the dynamic nature of the situation and remains committed to a continuous assessment of its actions and responses to ensure that the best interests of its staff, customers and communities are served.