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Financial Services

Banco W has been acquired by Fundación Grupo Social

May 2025 — Fundación Grupo Social has successfully completed the acquisition of a 51% stake in Banco W, becoming its majority shareholder.

Established by Fundación WWB Colombia in 2011, Banco W is a microfinance bank headquartered in Cali, Colombia. Its primary goal is to facilitate access to credit for women and socially and economically disadvantaged populations, primarily by offering loans to the micro and small business sectors. Banco W provides a range of financial products, including various types of loans and lines of credit, credit cards, time deposits, savings accounts, insurance and international money transfer services.

Fundación Grupo Social is a Colombian non-profit organization with over a century of experience in promoting inclusive development. Headquartered in Bogotá and rooted in Catholic social teaching, the foundation works to advance human dignity and reduce inequality by supporting initiatives that foster social and economic inclusion. Through its extensive network of affiliated organizations, including entities in finance, education, health and community development, Fundación Grupo Social focuses on empowering vulnerable populations, strengthening civil society and promoting ethical business practices that contribute to the common good.

Fundación WWB Colombia is a non-profit organization based in Cali, Colombia. Established in 1982, it has supported female microentrepreneurs for over 40 years. The foundation is committed to making social impact investments that strengthen both personal and business capacities, especially for female entrepreneurs in vulnerable socio-economic situations, and to promoting knowledge generation.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins’ team in Colombia acted as the exclusive advisor to the seller in this transaction.

Parties
“It has been a true pleasure working with the Oaklins team in Colombia, whose continuous support over the past eight years has been instrumental in consolidating our bank’s operations and identifying the ideal partner for the next chapter of our institution. Their deep knowledge of the local microfinance sector helped us confidently navigate complex discussions. Oaklins’ strategic advice and professional expertise were essential in structuring a deal that fully aligns with our mission to empower small businesses, vulnerable communities and women-led initiatives. Their hands-on approach and dedication were key to achieving a successful closing, ensuring Banco W can continue to make a meaningful impact on our society.”

Daniela Konietzko

President and CEO, Fundación WWB Colombia

Talk to the deal team

Juan Pablo Bayter

Partner
Bogotá, Colombia
Oaklins Axia

Federico Velez

Director
Bogotá, Colombia
Oaklins Axia

Ana Jiménez

Associate
Bogotá, Colombia
Oaklins Axia

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