BRITISH STANDARD CHARTERED ESTABLISHES AFRICAN HUB IN CASABLANCA

Standard Chartered is not only reshaping its African footprint but also reinforcing Casablanca’s stature as a regional powerhouse in global finance.

Economy Africa Morocco Standard chartered Finance Powerhouse.
British Standard Chartered
British Standard Chartered


British banking powerhouse Standard Chartered has made a bold strategic move by selecting Casablanca Morocco’s bustling economic capital as the command center for its African operations. With the official registration of its branch in the Casa Anfa business district confirmed by the Casablanca Commercial Court on April 25, 2025, the bank signals not just a relocation, but a reimagination of its continental footprint.

This high-profile entry underscores Casablanca’s rise as North Africa’s financial nerve center and a magnet for multinational firms. More than just a new branch, the bank’s decision positions Casablanca as a launchpad for a streamlined, high-value presence across sub-Saharan Africa.

“Casablanca offers unmatched advantages as our strategic anchor point for a coherent continental presence,” said Chris Egberink, Standard Chartered’s head of the South Africa region. “From here, we can effectively serve clients across sub-Saharan Africa while building stronger connections with major economic partners throughout the continent.”

Located in the ultramodern Casa Anfa district, Standard Chartered’s new office sits in the heart of a city increasingly recognized for financial sophistication, international connectivity, and investor-friendly governance. Casablanca Finance City (CFC) a thriving financial ecosystem has been instrumental in drawing top-tier global players, offering benefits such as tax incentives, streamlined regulations, and an infrastructure purpose-built for cross-border financial activity.

This strategic pivot comes even as Standard Chartered has exited certain African markets such as Zimbabwe, Angola, and Cameroon. But rather than signaling withdrawal, the bank is consolidating its resources for maximum impact, using Casablanca as a springboard to serve large corporations and financial institutions with services like international trade financing, treasury management, and institutional investment solutions.

Casablanca’s geographic advantage just four hours from major European financial centers and directly connected to key sub-Saharan capitals adds to its appeal, making it a natural bridge between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Its growing pool of multilingual, skilled finance professionals only strengthens its credentials as the continent’s emerging financial heart.

With this move, Standard Chartered is not only reshaping its African footprint but also reinforcing Casablanca’s stature as a regional powerhouse in global finance unlocking new opportunities for Morocco and beyond.

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