TBC Celebrates the Future of Business: Winners of Business Awards 2025 Announced

Success Is on the Way – You Just Have to Believe
The winners of the Business Awards 2025, initiated by TBC, have been officially announced. The prestigious event recognized the top 15 companies across 5 categories, awarding them gold, silver, and bronze honors. Held at “Radio City,” the ceremony welcomed more than 600 guests.

A specially selected jury reviewed a record number of 443 applications and named the best in the following categories:

1. Best Product

• Gold: Theatre Factory 42 – for offering a unique, experimental experience to audiences through innovative performance methods.
• Silver: Reckless – a Georgian clothing brand that empowers the younger generation to express individuality.
• Bronze: Communal Hotels – a conceptual chain of restaurants and boutique hotels.

2. Best Innovative Startup

• Gold: Tasteit – a food-centered social network connecting people in real life.
• Silver: QACanvas – a startup providing AI-powered assistants to QA engineers for generating and managing test scenarios more efficiently.
• Bronze: Awork – a digital employment platform tailored for the next generation of job seekers.

3. Outstanding Social Responsibility (Nana Janashia Award)

• Gold: Cafe Mziuri – recognized for its commitment to building inclusive and educational public spaces.
• Silver: Adamiani – a brand that upcycles various materials into everyday products.
• Bronze: Social Concept Store ESKI – showcasing handcrafted items from social enterprises.

4. Outstanding Contribution to Regional Development

• Gold: AgroLab – a cutting-edge wine testing laboratory contributing to regional agro-development.
• Silver: AltiHut – a mountain lodge located at 3,014 meters offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Bronze: Agrometa – supporting farmers with high-tech agro-drone services.

5. Best Freelancer

• Gold: Manana Arabuli – an artist and designer known for her distinctive book designs.
• Silver: Giorgi Meskhi – helping startups achieve international success.
• Bronze: Giga Metreveli – offering strategic consulting for startup growth and development.

Special Awards

• Gender Equality Award: Le Méridien Batumi – for its consistent efforts in promoting women’s empowerment through inclusive activities.
• Green Initiative Award: Vintylator – a vintage clothing store recognized for championing sustainability and eco-conscious practices.

Empowering Businesses Beyond the Awards

In addition to trophies, winners will receive tailored prizes to support their growth—such as new website development, branding, or communication support—based on their specific business needs.

The Business Awards 2025 are organized by TBC with Visa as the main partner. Additional support comes from Adjara Group and Tegeta Business, with media partnerships from Marketer.ge, BMG, On.ge, and Entrepreneur Georgia.

TBC Presents Key Achievements in Sustainable Development at Annual Event

TBC, recognized as a leader in sustainable development in Georgia, held its annual Sustainability Event on June 25 at the multifunctional TBC Concept space. This year’s central theme was: “Promoting Sustainable Development Through Stakeholder Engagement.”

The event highlighted the importance of sustainability across business, technology, education, culture, and society—placing a strong emphasis on the role of international partnerships. These topics directly align with TBC’s strategic priorities in sustainability.

The event was opened by Vakhtang Butskhrikidze, CEO of TBC, who spoke about the company’s sustainability strategy and achievements. Remarks were also delivered by Gareth Ward, the British Ambassador to Georgia, while Nino Masurashvili, TBC’s Chief Risk Officer, summarized the company’s key sustainability milestones for 2024.

A panel discussion titled “Fostering Sustainable Development Through Stakeholder Engagement” brought together representatives from the European Union, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), UN Women, the business community, as well as a TBC Tech School graduate and winner of the Grace Hopper Technology Award.

The event concluded with a dialogue titled “The Role of Sustainability in Art and the Role of Art in Sustainability,” reflecting TBC’s strategic goal of supporting cultural development. This conversation featured visual artist Mariam Odishelidze and renowned photographer Guram Tsibakhashvili.

Attendees included representatives from international and local organizations, business leaders, media, participants in TBC programs, employees, and customers from both small and large enterprises.

“At TBC, we fully recognize our responsibility to support sustainable development. Through our operations, we promote green and social financing opportunities to back sustainable business models and practices. We focus on employee engagement, women’s empowerment, technological innovation, and youth education. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and enhance our ability to respond to complex challenges. Our goal is to drive positive change in society and be a leading advocate of ESG principles in Georgia and the region.”
— Vakhtang Butskhrikidze, CEO of TBC

TBC received several major sustainability awards in 2024, including the top award in the “Responsible Large Company of the Year” category at the Meliora 2024 awards, the PEAK Award from the ESG Academy at the International Developers Competition, and the Euromoney Award for outstanding commitment to sustainability.

Since 2019, TBC has published an annual Sustainability Report, showcasing its impact on the economy, environment, and society. The full 2024 Sustainability Report, including future plans and key outcomes from the past year, is available here.
Direct link to the report.

TBC Inspires the Next Generation: Young Footballers Meet Giorgi Mamardashvili

On June 27, with the support of TBC, young football players from the women’s football club “Veres” and Borjomi’s football club “Tori” had the opportunity to meet Georgian and European football star Giorgi Mamardashvili at the Hubs.ge showroom.

Especially for this occasion, TBC, in collaboration with Giorgi, created branded merchandise for the young players. These gifts were presented to the children, and Mamardashvili signed them with memorable autographs.

Giorgi Mamardashvili delivered an inspiring speech to the young athletes and shared his personal journey and experiences—leaving the children with lasting impressions and unforgettable memories.

We believe that this meeting with Giorgi Mamardashvili will serve as a powerful source of inspiration for the new generation of footballers, motivating them to pursue their chosen path with even greater determination, passion, and belief.

TBC Capital’s July Macroeconomic Review: Limited Impact from Middle East Conflict Amid Continued GEL Strength

TBC Capital Publishes Monthly Macroeconomic Overview

Temporary Effects from the Middle East Conflict Amid Sustained Appreciation Pressure on the Georgian Lari

Against the backdrop of recent developments in the Middle East, assessing the potential economic impact of the conflict on Georgia is essential. First and foremost, it is encouraging that the ceasefire agreement signed on June 24 remains in effect. As a result, no significant new economic shocks are expected beyond those already triggered during the escalation. Nonetheless, the past two weeks have clearly brought measurable—though contained—effects on Georgia, which TBC Capital assesses in real time in this publication.

Tourism Revenues Dipped Briefly, But Recovery Already Evident

Daily data—including high-frequency indicators, Google search trends, and evaluations of interventions by the National Bank of Georgia (NBG)—show that tourism revenues declined in the second half of June. However, the decline was limited in both duration and scale. Signs of recovery are already visible following the ceasefire. Fuel prices in Georgia also rose slightly in recent days.

TBC Capital had already issued an early-stage assessment of the conflict’s potential transmission channels to Georgia’s economy, highlighting two main areas: foreign currency inflows and oil prices.

Based on high-frequency indicators, particularly non-cash spending by non-residents, a slowdown in tourist spending has been evident since June 12. Still, the decline is not substantial, and a mild rebound is visible after June 23. Moreover, spending by non-residents had been rising strongly prior to June 12, suggesting that total June spending is likely to exceed that of May. Notably, Google search trends for Georgia from Israel—a key tourism source—have significantly increased after a dip during the conflict, reflecting continued high interest in Georgia as a travel destination.

Israel (accounting for 5.3% of total inflows over the last four quarters) and the broader Middle East region (8.9%) remain key sources of foreign currency, especially from tourism. The limited decline in tourism revenues is further supported by TBC Capital’s assessment of ongoing, large-scale NBG interventions throughout June—a trend that would be unlikely if there had been a major drop in foreign inflows. Migration patterns also matter: the share of Israeli citizens in non-resident card spending has been rising recently.

Oil Prices Spike and Then Recede, Inflation Impact Mild So Far

Oil prices rose significantly on global markets during the initial days of the conflict, but quickly dropped following the ceasefire. While Georgia is a net importer of oil—meaning that rising prices pose challenges—it also receives higher currency inflows from oil-producing nations. According to TBC Capital, these effects largely offset each other. However, the recent global decline in gasoline and diesel prices contributed 0.5 percentage points to the decrease in annual inflation. Consequently, a rise in oil prices would be a negative factor for inflation. Indeed, fuel prices at local gas stations have increased slightly in recent days. Assuming continued normalization in global markets, domestic fuel prices are expected to decline again, all else being equal.

A Notable Shift: The U.S. Dollar’s Safe-Haven Status in Question

For TBC Capital’s readers, the arguments around foreign currency inflows and oil prices are familiar, but a notable new development is the shifting status of the U.S. dollar. Typically, the dollar strengthens during periods of elevated risk, as investors move to safer assets. This time, however, the dollar saw only a modest uptick in the early hours of the conflict and then weakened again.

Why does this matter? If a weakening dollar means cheaper borrowing in USD terms under a EUR/USD/GEL strategy, it also suggests that the USD’s status as a safe asset is diminishing—a critical consideration for businesses. In times of economic stress, a stronger “safe” currency should offset falling revenues and profits. If that role is compromised, rising debt burdens could worsen outcomes during downturns.

TBC Capital’s updated recommendation reflects this shift: While the euro’s recent appreciation supports taking on more euro-denominated debt, the argument is weaker than before due to the changing perception of the dollar. Even so, USD should still retain a larger share in the debt structure compared to the euro. This strategy may sound complex at first glance, but its financial benefits can be significant.

Key Macroeconomic Events of the Past Month

• Economic Growth: Remains above expectations. According to Geostat, real GDP grew by 7.5% in May. Based on high-frequency data, non-cash spending also increased in May and is expected to remain strong in June.
• Inflation: Presents a mixed picture. Seasonally adjusted annual inflation remained high in May, especially for domestically produced and mixed goods and services—particularly food. Conversely, services inflation, which best reflects fundamental factors, was flat in May after rising rapidly in previous months. TBC Capital now forecasts year-end inflation at around 4.5% (up from 4.1%), driven largely by rising food prices—due to both global market trends and local agricultural challenges.
• GEL Outlook: In TBC Capital’s previous review, three key GEL-supportive factors were identified: strong net FX inflows, conversion of deposits back into GEL, and global USD weakness. These trends have continued:
  • Net inflows have improved,
  • GEL deposits have increased,
  • Demand for FX by households and businesses has declined,
  • The USD has further weakened.

Simultaneously, the NBG continues to replenish its FX reserves. In May, purchases totaled $245 million, with a three-month cumulative acquisition of $613 million. Despite the temporary drop in tourism revenues, interventions continued into June, according to TBC Capital’s estimates.

Read the full publication at the link (Hyperlink: https://tbccapital.ge/ge/publications/all-publications/singleview/30006923-monthly-macro-update-georgia) provided.

TBC Launches Summer Promotion for Money Transfers – Win a Trip to Italy or a Loyalty Bonus

TBC Launches a Three-Month Summer Promotion for Money Transfers

From July 1 to September 30, cash out your money transfer using TBC Internet or Mobile Banking and get a chance to win a 500 GEL reward in your Loyalty Piggy Bank or the grand prize – a trip for two to Italy, including visits to Rome and the Amalfi Coast.

Daily Prize – 500 GEL in Your Loyalty Piggy Bank
Each day during the promotion period (July 1 to September 30), the customer who makes the 500th cash-out transaction of the day via TBC, and whose transfer amount is at least 100 GEL, USD, or EUR, will receive a 500 GEL reward in their Loyalty Piggy Bank.
Winners will be announced daily.

Grand Prize – Trip for Two to Italy
Three customers who cash out the highest number of money transfers during the promotion period will win the grand prize – a trip for two to Italy.

To qualify for the grand prize, participants must cash out at least one transfer per month, with a minimum amount of 100 GEL, USD, or EUR.

In case of a tie (equal number of transactions), the winner will be determined by the highest total amount of all transfers cashed out.

See full campaign terms and conditions at the link.
Make the most of TBC’s online and mobile banking systems and become one of the lucky winners!

TBC Launches Instant Transfers in USD and EUR to Any Bank via Mobile Banking

TBC’s New Feature – Instant USD and EUR Transfers to Any Bank

To simplify everyday banking for its customers, TBC has introduced another innovative feature: users can now instantly transfer money not only in GEL but also in USD and EUR between their own cards and any other bank’s card — and vice versa.

This functionality is available exclusively in TBC Mobile Banking, and funds are credited to the recipient’s card within seconds. The transfer fee is just 1%.

The new service, unprecedented in Georgia, is available only for individuals. The minimum amount per transaction is €2 or $2, and the maximum is €1000 or $1000, depending on the chosen currency.

To make a transfer, TBC users should go to the Transfers section in the Mobile Bank app and select “From Other Banks 24/7”. Then, they can either add a new card or choose from their existing cards to complete the transaction.

More details about the “From Other Banks 24/7” functionality and the transfer process can be found at the link. 

Transfer instantly, 24/7, in foreign currency — to any bank!

Borjghalosnebi Set to Face Ireland in Historic Summer Showdown – TBC Offers Fans Exclusive Benefits

Rugby Summer Kicks Off!

The test match series begins on July 5, as Borjghalosnebi open their summer campaign with a major home clash against Ireland.
This game holds historic significance—it will be the first time Georgia hosts Ireland on home soil. The match pits our national team against one of the world’s rugby powerhouses, currently ranked third in the World Rugby Rankings.

Georgia has never beaten Ireland in previous encounters, making this the perfect opportunity to improve that record. And timing may be on our side: several of Ireland’s top players won’t be participating, as they’ve been called up to join the British & Irish Lions tour in Australia.

Meanwhile, the Georgian national team has been preparing at the Shevardeni training base for the past three weeks. Head coach Richard Cockerill has summoned 37 players for the summer tests. Despite a number of injuries, Cockerill believes Georgia will field a highly competitive squad this summer.

The much-anticipated Georgia vs Ireland test match will take place on July 5 at 21:00 at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium.
Tickets are still available here.

TBC Offers Fans Extra Value:
When you purchase tickets using a new TBC card, TBC Concept card, or TBC Loyal credit card, you’ll receive 30% cashback, up to 30 GEL, regardless of ticket category.

And don’t miss the Fan Zone, where TBC will host a dedicated space, creating an exciting rugby atmosphere before and after the match.

#WeWinTogether

New Features in TBC Business Mobile Bank: Simplifying Daily Operations for Businesses

To further simplify the daily operations of businesses, TBC has introduced a range of new functionalities in its Business Mobile Bank. These updates are designed to significantly save users time and make their banking experience even more seamless.

The latest improvements in the Business Mobile Bank cover several key areas:

• Faster Password Recovery:
  The password recovery process has been enhanced, allowing users to easily restore access to their Business Mobile Bank accounts within seconds, directly from the login page.
• User Access Notifications and Extensions:
  Business Mobile Bank users will now receive notifications when their access period is about to expire. With the new feature, company directors can extend a user’s access to the app directly through Business Mobile Bank.
• User Management Made Easy:
  TBC has added user management functionality to the Business Mobile Bank. Company owners can now:
  • Reactivate expired users remotely
  • Add new users
  • Assign different permissions
    Additionally, the role assignment process has been improved, enabling businesses to assign various roles to their users more flexibly.
• Customized Currency Exchange Rates:
  Businesses can now request custom exchange rates directly through the mobile bank. After submitting a request, a response is received within minutes. If the proposed rate is acceptable, the currency conversion can proceed immediately. If not, users can re-submit their request at the same or a lower rate.
• Fully Remote Digital Registration for New Users:
  Companies that are TBC clients but have not yet used digital services can now register via the Business Mobile or Web Application — no branch visit required. Upon completing registration, immediate access to accounts will be available via both Internet and Mobile Banking.

TBC continues to introduce innovations aimed at streamlining business processes. In the near future, even more advanced features will be available through the Business Mobile Bank.

Simplifying Business Banking: New Features Added to TBC’s Business Internet Banking

What’s New in TBC’s Business Internet Banking

To further simplify the daily operations of businesses, TBC has introduced several new features to its Business Internet Banking platform. These updates are designed to make interactions with the bank even more convenient for business customers.

Here’s what’s new:

• News Section: Upon logging into the Business Internet Banking platform, users can now access the News category to stay updated on the latest developments and digital banking innovations.
• Multi-Account Statement Download: Business users can now download account statements from up to five accounts simultaneously in a single Excel file—with just one click.
• Balance History Functionality: Users can now view account balances for any selected date, in any currency, all in one place. Additionally, balance history can be filtered by account and account name.
• Payroll Project Enrollment: It is now possible to enroll employees in a payroll project directly from the Business Internet Banking platform and request payroll cards for them. All it takes is selecting the payroll offer from the Offers section and filling in the required information—after which a TBC representative will get in touch.

At TBC, we are continuously introducing new tools to simplify business operations. Even more updates and functionalities are set to be added to the Business Internet Banking platform in the near future.

TBC Supports Georgia’s National AI Hackathon at Caucasus University

With the support of TBC, the National Artificial Intelligence Hackathon will be held on July 19–20, organized by the Georgian Artificial Intelligence Association (GAIA) and hosted by Caucasus University.

The National AI Hackathon is a new initiative by GAIA that aims to become the country’s leading AI-focused event. The hackathon will be team-based, with participants working on high-quality AI solutions tailored to real business challenges within the Georgian context.

Winners will be selected by a professional jury, which includes Shota Ioramashvili, the Lead of Web and Mobile Development at TBC.

Winning teams will receive cash prizes to support further product development. They will also have the opportunity to present their solutions to businesses for potential future collaboration, with the assistance of GAIA.

Participants are required to have knowledge and experience in fields such as computer science, data science, software engineering, or related disciplines. The registration deadline is July 10.

TBC consistently supports initiatives like this because we are always at the heart of the most important events in tech. Our mission is to discover, support, and foster the development of new tech talent.