Green bond listing by DFCC Bank on NSE IX marks the first foreign bond issue at GIFT City, promoting cross-border sustainable finance and renewable energy investments.

DFCC Bank Makes Historic Green Bond Listing on NSE IX at GIFT City

In a landmark move, DFCC Bank PLC of Sri Lanka became the first foreign corporate issuer to list a green bond on the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT IFSC, India. The listing ceremony took place on June 9, 2025, at the Grand Mercure hotel in GIFT City, Gujarat, witnessed by dignitaries including K. Rajaraman, Chairperson of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA)

The bond, sized at LKR 2.5 billion, was originally issued in Sri Lanka and later dual‑listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange before being admitted to NSE IX—strengthening DFCC Bank’s foothold in global capital markets

Designed to finance solar power projects in Sri Lanka, the green bond aligns with the country’s ambition to generate 70% of its electricity from renewables by 2030 It conforms to the Sri Lanka Green Finance Taxonomy and adheres to the Green Bond Principles set by the International Capital Market Association (ICMA), contributing towards UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7 & SDG 13)

During the ceremony, Thimal Perera, CEO of DFCC Bank, emphasized that this listing signals emerging economies’ ability to tap scalable sustainable capital by participating in internationally regarded capital markets V. Balasubramaniam, MD & CEO of NSE IX, expressed confidence that DFCC’s move would encourage other issuers from Sri Lanka and neighboring nations to explore GIFT City’s potential under the BIMSTEC collaboration framework

Why This News Matters

Boost to Sustainable Finance

This listing highlights the growing momentum of green finance in South Asia. By facilitating cross-border issuance of green bonds, it paves the way for private sector participation in climate-friendly projects, directly supporting India and Sri Lanka’s renewable energy goals.

Strengthening Regional Financial Integration

DFCC’s listing underlines the role of GIFT IFSC as a bridge between South Asian economies and global capital. It strengthens India–Sri Lanka financial ties, offering a platform for shared growth via sustainable investments within the BIMSTEC corridor.

Enhancing DFCC Bank’s Global Position

For DFCC Bank, this achievement is a strategic milestone that enhances its credentials in sustainable finance. It showcases its ability to structure large-scale green instruments and access diverse investor bases, thereby reinforcing its leadership in the region.

Historical Context: The Rise of GIFT City & Green Bonds in South Asia

GIFT IFSC was inaugurated in 2015 to position India as a global financial hub, offering world-class infrastructure geared toward international banking, capital markets, and sustainable finance The launch of NSE IX in 2017 enabled trading of diversified instruments like currency derivatives, equities, and debt.

Meanwhile, green bonds have gained popularity worldwide as a tool to channel private finance into environmentally sustainable projects. DFCC Bank issued Sri Lanka’s first such bond, and its listing on Luxembourg and now NSE IX marks a trend of regional multi-listings, boosting investor confidence in South Asia’s green finance ecosystem.

Key Takeaways from DFCC Bank Green Bond on NSE IX

S.No	Key Takeaway
1	DFCC Bank is the first foreign corporate to list a green bond on NSE IX at GIFT IFSC, India.
2	The bond is worth LKR 2.5 billion, funding solar energy projects in Sri Lanka.
3	Listing date: June 9, 2025, at GIFT City with IFSCA and NSE IX officials in attendance.
4	The bond aligns with Sri Lanka’s goal of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2030.
5	This move exemplifies cross-border sustainable finance under India–Sri Lanka and BIMSTEC cooperation.

green bond listing

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of DFCC Bank’s listing on NSE IX at GIFT City?

DFCC Bank’s listing marks the first time a foreign entity has listed a green bond on NSE IX at GIFT IFSC, promoting cross-border sustainable finance and enhancing GIFT City’s global recognition.

2. What is a green bond?

A green bond is a debt instrument issued to raise funds specifically for climate and environmental projects, such as renewable energy, pollution prevention, and clean transportation.

3. What is NSE IX?

NSE IX, or NSE International Exchange, is an exchange located at GIFT IFSC, designed for international investors and companies to list and trade various financial instruments.

4. Why was DFCC Bank’s bond listed in multiple countries?

Dual or multi-listing, such as on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and NSE IX, helps broaden the investor base, enhances visibility, and attracts global capital into sustainable projects.

5. What role does GIFT City play in India’s financial strategy?

GIFT City serves as India’s international financial services hub, aiming to compete globally by offering world-class infrastructure and regulatory benefits for global investors and companies.