- TBC Commemorates the August War Anniversary with Support for Border Communities
This video is dedicated to the heroes who lost their lives during the August War and subsequent conflicts following the occupation, to those displaced from their homes, and to those living near the occupation line. It also honors our nation, where one-fifth of the territory remains under Russian occupation.
On August 7, 2024, sixteen years will have passed since the August War. The war claimed the lives of 228 civilians, 170 military personnel, and 14 police officers due to Russian aggression. Over 20,000 people were displaced within their own land, and Georgia lost control over 125 villages. The occupation divided families, homes, sacred sites, fields, and vineyards, forcing those living near the occupation zone to communicate across barbed wire. The ongoing occupation continues to bring with it murders, kidnappings, and unlawful detentions by the occupying forces.
TBC was born and flourished alongside independent Georgia. For us, freedom and independence are core values that underpin everything we do. We firmly believe that the occupation and the barbed wire are temporary, and that Georgia remains on both sides. Glory to the heroes!
გვახსოვდეს, ყველა მავთულხლართი და ოკუპაცია დროებითია
In commemoration of the August War anniversary and to alleviate the hardships of those living near the occupation zone, TBC is supporting two charitable initiatives:
The “Dream House” in Ergneti Village:
The “Indigo” fund has been active for several years in Ergneti, a village located just 250 meters from the barbed wire. The children of this village have a strong desire to build a “dream house” where they can interact, learn, and grow. An architectural plan for the house is already in place, and the fund is now working to gather the necessary funds for construction. TBC is proud to be the first company to support this project, contributing 10,000 GEL towards its realization.
Nikozi Village Mountaineers’ Club:
TBC is also backing the climbing festival organized by the rock climbing club in Nikozi this September, with a donation of 10,000 GEL. Founded in 2015, the club includes about 30 young climbers from villages surrounding the occupation zone. Since 2017, the club has competed in various tournaments across Georgia, earning accolades, including national championships. The festival, scheduled for September 6, will feature three age categories: under 10, under 12, and under 14, attracting around 70 amateur athletes from Tbilisi and regions such as Nikozi, Bediani, Kutaisi, and Kazbegi.
Sport climbing is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, and its popularity is rising in Georgia. The festival aims to promote and increase awareness of sport climbing while drawing attention to the region. Given Nikozi’s proximity to Tskhinvali, supporting events like this in such regions is of utmost importance.
- “Silk Real Estate” issued the first 1-year public bonds on the local market. The Bonds amounted to 7-million euro
Silk Real Estate (Hyperlink: https://sre.ge/?lang=en), one of the leading companies in Georgia’s real estate and hospitality sectors, has issued and listed the first-ever 1-year euro-denominated bonds on the Georgia Stock Exchange, with the support of TBC Capital, Galt & Taggart and Silk Bank. The nominal value of the placed bonds currently stands at 7 million euros.
In April 2023, Silk Real Estate issued and placed its first USD 20 million tranche with a 9.00% coupon. The second USD 20 million tranche, successfully issued in September 2023, carried a 9.25% coupon. These offerings attracted significant interest from both local and international investors.
The euro-denominated bonds carry a 7.0% coupon. The proceeds from this bond issuance will be used to refinance existing liabilities.
The third bond placement of the company on the Georgia Stock Exchange underscores the company’s steady growth, successful partnerships, and ongoing success.
Mamuka Shurgaia – Executive Director of “Silk Real Estate”: “Silk Real Estate has made another bond issuance on the stock exchange, marking the company’s first euro-denominated 1-year bonds. Last year, the total value of bonds issued amounted to USD 40 million. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success for their work and professionalism.”
Aleksi Khoroshvili – General Director of Silk Bank: “We are pleased that, in collaboration with Galt & Taggart and TBC Capital, we have once again facilitated the successful placement of Silk Real Estate bonds. As Silk Bank and Silk Real Estate are part of the same group, it is particularly important to us that our bank’s clients were given the opportunity to purchase Silk Real Estate bonds, this time denominated in euros.”
Ketevan Toidze – Galt & Taggart, Deputy Director: “We are pleased to continue our active collaboration with Silk Real Estate and have successfully placed our third bond issuance. Notably, this transaction marks the first-ever issuance of 1-year bonds in the Georgian capital market. It is important for us to consistently offer innovative products tailored to the goals and needs of both companies and investors. We hope to achieve many more successful issuances in the capital market together with Silk Real Estate.”
Mary Chachanidze – TBC Capital, Managing Director: “I am pleased that Silk Real Estate has successfully placed first-ever 1-year euro-denominated bonds, attracting a new type of investors interested in short-term products. We supported Silk Real Estate’s inaugural issuance in 2023 and continue to assist the company in finding alternative funding sources through the capital market. It is significant that one of the leading and largest brands in the real estate and hospitality industry operates successfully in the market. Their progress not only benefits the group but also makes the country more attractive to both local and international investors.”
- TBC Equity Monthly Macro Review: July Economic Growth and Neutral Currency Sentiment Outlook
Based on TBC’s operational data, the strong economic growth observed in June, with a 7.5% increase, is expected to continue in July. According to TBC Capital’s short-term forecast, the growth rate is projected to be around 7.3%. Despite this growth, inflation remains below target levels. In July, consumer prices decreased by 0.4% compared to the previous month, which, after adjusting for seasonal factors, translates to zero inflation. The annual inflation rate stands at 1.8%. However, it is important to note that the contribution of one-time factors plays a significant role, and without these, recent inflation dynamics would be closer to the 3% target.
Regarding the exchange rate of the Georgian lari (GEL), in addition to currency inflows, market sentiment traditionally plays a crucial role. To provide a comprehensive analysis, we present a quantitative assessment of the combined impact of currency inflows and sentiment. For instance, factors such as the tourism sector, the currency composition of loans and deposits, and the US dollar index against other major currencies are considered. This quantitative framework accurately reflects the historical and current dynamics of the GEL against the US dollar. Our previous conclusions remain unchanged, and the base scenario remains largely neutral.
At the same time, the ongoing geopolitical challenges, including developments in the Middle East, pose a significant risk to the Georgian economy, affecting both foreign inflows and inflation. Additionally, the impact of migration should be taken into account. For example, in October 2023, a decrease in tourism spending from Israel was offset by an increase in consumer spending by non-residents from Israel, which was linked to the positive effects of migration.
Read the full publication at the provided link. (Hyperlink: ყოველთვიური მაკროეკონომიკური მიმოხილვა | TBC Capital)
- TBC Tech Team International Conference at WeAreDevelopers World Congress
TBC has been actively taking care of the high quality of education and experience of its employees for years, which, first of all, involves their attendance at leading international technological conferences and the implementation of the acquired knowledge in TBC. This culture has become part of the company and continues to this day.
This time, 15 TBC employees attended the annual conference WeAreDevelopers World Congress in Berlin, where more than 15,000 people, 8,000 companies and many successful speakers gather. Here you can get to know the employees of such leading technology companies as Google, Red Hat, Docker, Dynatrace, GitHub, Intel and others.
The main reason for choosing WeAreDevelopers World Congress was the scale of the conference, interesting speakers and topics that are useful for any modern company.
“Many interesting companies and speakers were at the conference. Along with this, emphasis was placed on AI and modern technologies. It is important for developers to get ready for these events, that’s why we chose this conference in particular” – Levan Nozadze, TBC Back Systems Development Legion Lead.
“I was at the conference as a Tech Commune leader to understand directly from the tech talents their needs, observed their behavior, what they like at such events, observed and analyzed part of the event organization, attended sessions and panel discussions to learn more about current trends.” – Natia Barabadze, leader of TBC Tech Commune,
For TBC, as a technology company, the adoption of new trends and their subsequent implementation are of the utmost importance for the main mission of the company, to simplify people’s lives.
- TBC Payment Solutions: Meeting Market Needs with Innovation and Convenience
In Georgia, most consumers now favor cashless payments, whether through POS terminals or online (e-commerce). TBC is committed to enhancing payment convenience for both consumers and businesses, offering a range of products that streamline transactions. This enables businesses to quickly and easily receive payments for their goods, while simplifying the purchasing process for customers. TBC’s POS terminals are designed to meet all market demands.
A standard POS terminal from TBC supports card payments from international and local cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay. Additionally, the cash terminal combines the functions of a POS terminal and a cash register in a single device, facilitating both card payments and cash transactions with ease. TBC also offers integrated POS terminals that connect to your POS software, making the process even more efficient.
The T-POS app allows businesses to accept card payments directly on Android devices, such as mobile phones and tablets, without the need for a physical terminal. TBC continuously introduces updated, modern POS terminal models to the market, ensuring faster and more multifunctional solutions.
TBC’s innovative product lineup includes QR Horeca, a payment solution tailored for the restaurant industry. This unique product, already widespread in European countries, is now available in Georgia. According to Koba Kutateladze, TBC’s commercial leader for POS terminals, QR Horeca simplifies the payment process for both restaurant businesses and their customers. Customers can scan a QR code on their table to view their order, prices, and quantities, and pay directly without waiting for a receipt. This product is already operational and is set to offer even greater convenience with future updates.
Payments processed through TBC’s POS terminals are instantly credited to the business owner’s account, a significant improvement over the previous next-day settlement process. TBC also provides dedicated managers to resolve any payment-related issues promptly.
For restaurant businesses, TBC’s POS terminals also support the activation of a tipping feature, allowing customers to easily add tips during payment. TBC’s online payment solutions cater to both on-site (E-com) and off-site (Pay By Link) transactions, further enhancing convenience for businesses and customers alike.
All information about TBC’s payment products, including POS terminals and online payment options, is available on the dedicated platform tbcpayments.ge. Existing clients can also access various analytics and request additional payment products through the platform. Furthermore, users can easily navigate to tbcpayments.ge from TBC Internet Bank.
- TBC Leasing Supports “Scooter Day” Initiative for Safe Two-Wheeled Transportation
Scooter Day, organized by Scoot Scoot with the support of TBC Leasing, was an event aimed at teaching participants how to ride a two-wheeled vehicle, ensuring comfort and safety in their journeys.
The companies involved highlighted that “Scooter Days” is a project offering free scooter riding lessons. The initiative is designed to help participants overcome their initial fears, answer basic questions, gain essential knowledge, and build the confidence needed to ride a two-wheeled vehicle safely.
“Due to increasing demand, from June 1st, TBC Leasing has simplified financing for two-wheeled vehicles, and we’ve also planned special offers with our partners. We believe that ‘Scooter Day’ is a significant initiative promoting safe scooter riding,” said Ekaterine Anjaparidze, Head of the Automotive Department at TBC Leasing.
“In our country, as well as globally, the popularity of two-wheeled transport is rapidly growing. Through this project, we aim to support individuals who are interested in flexible and independent transportation but have yet to experience a scooter or motorcycle. At ‘Scooter Days,’ everyone has the chance to ride a scooter in a controlled and safe environment, taking the first step toward embracing a new form of transportation,” stated Giorgi Monavardisashvili, Co-founder of Scoot Scoot.
- TBC Concept Continues Support for the Tsinandali Classical Music Festival
From August 31 to September 8, the Tsinandali Estate will once again host its renowned classical music festival, now in its sixth consecutive year.
This year’s festival promises an exceptional musical experience, featuring performances by world-renowned classical artists, including Erica Grimaldi, Bruce Liu, Mikhail Pletnev, Joshua Bell, Jeremy Denk, Steven Isserlis, Martin Fröst, Boris Giltburg, Christoph Eschenbach, Julien Quentin, Lisa Batiashvili, Alexandre Kantorow, and many others.
For the full program, visit Tsinandali Festival Program: What Is On – Tsinandali Festival.
As a TBC Concept user, you can enjoy a 15% discount on exclusive festival packages and tickets. These packages include a one-night stay at the Tsinandali Estate, breakfast for two, and tickets to both the evening and following morning concerts.
To purchase a package, please contact your Concept Assistant at *2777. To buy tickets, visit the link: Tsinandali Festival Tickets:
https://tkt.ge/en/show/19237/tsinandlis-festivali-2024
This offer is available for all TBC Concept debit cardholders.
- TBC Capital and Galt & Taggart Support m²’s Successful $25 Million Bond Issuance, Marking the 8th Consecutive Year Since 2014**
m² (Georgian Real Estate), with the backing of Galt & Taggart and TBC Capital, has successfully issued $25 million in USD-denominated public bonds. As a trailblazer in Georgia’s securities market, this marks m²’s eighth consecutive bond issuance since 2014, bringing the total capital raised to $185 million—a significant milestone for Georgia’s non-financial sector.
The bond issuance attracted substantial interest from both local and international investors, exceeding the initially targeted amount. This robust demand highlights investor confidence in m² and its market position.
The bonds, which carry a coupon rate of 8.5%, have a two-year maturity period. Guram Akhvlediani, CEO of Georgian Real Estate, expressed satisfaction with the successful placement, attributing it to the company’s credibility and the professionalism of Galt & Taggart and TBC Capital.
Ketevan Toidze, Deputy Director of Galt & Taggart, also emphasized the continued fruitful collaboration between Galt & Taggart and Georgian Real Estate, noting the high demand from retail investors as a sign of growing confidence in local securities.
Mary Chachanidze, Managing Director of TBC Capital, highlighted the significance of this bond issuance as the second joint placement with Georgian Real Estate. She underscored the importance of the capital market in providing alternative financing sources for the company’s major housing projects.
Additionally, m² announced plans to redeem $35 million of existing bonds, with $26 million already committed for refinancing through the new $25 million bond issuance. The remaining $9 million will be repaid in October, in accordance with the bond terms.
For 16 years, m² has been setting new standards for comfortable living in Georgia, holding a significant position in the country’s real estate market. The company is fully owned by the investment firm Georgian Capital.
- Georgian Royal Wine Expands in Kvareli with TBC’s Support
Founded by Revaz Karalashvili in 2012, “Georgian Royal Wine” (GRW) is a family-owned winery located in Kvareli, known for producing premium Georgian wines that are now exported to 20 countries worldwide.
The Karalashvili family has a long-standing tradition in winemaking, spanning five generations. Revaz’s father, Tamaz Karalashvili, a respected winemaker in the region, serves as the company’s chief winemaker.
GRW combines the expertise of seasoned winemakers, family heritage, and a blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques, allowing them to offer customers a diverse and high-quality selection of Georgian wines.
“In 2020, we constructed a brand-new winery, incorporating the latest trends and technologies. We currently produce 2 million bottles of wine annually across 15 different varieties. Being located in the Kindzmarauli zone of Kvareli, our Kindzmarauli wine is our most popular product. Soon, we plan to introduce some Western wine varieties,” said Revaz Karalashvili, founder of GRW.
The busiest period for the winery is during the harvest, when grapes are sourced from both the family’s vineyards and local farmers. This year, they plan to process 1,500 tons of grapes.
95% of GRW’s production is exported to European and Asian markets, with recent expansion into Japan.
With continued financial support from TBC, “Georgian Royal Wine” is set to install a new production line acquired from Europe, which will increase the winery’s capacity to 3 million bottles annually.
