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Standard Chartered started developing a formal microfinance programme in 2004, and is now active in Nepal, India, Pakistan, Ghana and Bangladesh.

In Nepal the bank has been lending directly to small farmers for purchase of inputs for growing tobacco. This arrangement is backed by confirmed purchasing by the main tobacco company. Similar loans have been extended to farmers growing Lokta (traditional handmade paper) for exports. In India, the Bank provides wholesale lending to three MFIs, with another four about to be added. In Bangladesh, the bank offers short-term loans and guarantee products to Bangladesh’s leading MFIs. SCB also offers products to MFIs in Pakistan and Africa.