The Bank of Maldives (BML) has strongly refuted claims that it provided funding or dollar liquidity to assist the government in settling the remaining USD 50 million of the USD 150 million Treasury bill facility taken from the State Bank of India (SBI), as well as rumors that the repayment negatively impacted the bank's financial standing.

In a statement released today, BML emphasized that the government's clearance of this debt has no connection whatsoever with the bank's financial position or banking operations.

BML noted that, as publicly confirmed by the Ministry of Finance, the final USD 50 million paid to SBI on September 17, 2026, was sourced directly from the Sovereign Development Fund (SDF). The bank clarified that this payment fully concluded the USD 150 million T-bill facility originally acquired by the government in 2019 across three tranches. BML affirmed that no customer deposits or internal bank resources were utilized to fund this transaction.

Highlighting its institutional stability, BML stated that it operates as a financially robust bank governed by strict regulatory standards, defined risk appetites, and sound risk management frameworks. The bank's management and board continuously monitor its liquidity, capital, and overall financial health, reiterating that the government's SBI debt settlement was an entirely independent transaction that left the bank's financial resources unaffected and created no obstacles to fulfilling customer obligations.

While acknowledging the importance of public discussion and scrutiny regarding the national financial system, BML stressed that matters concerning a bank's financial status directly impact customer trust, shareholder interests, and system-wide stability, and therefore must be grounded in verified facts. The bank warned that repeatedly spreading misinformation could induce anxiety among customers, businesses, and investors, potentially eroding confidence in the bank, the broader banking sector, and the Maldivian economy.

"Therefore, BML urges all parties, particularly politicians and the media, to verify the accuracy of information with relevant state authorities before making any statements or publishing content concerning the bank's financial position and customer funds," the statement read.

BML concluded by reiterating that protecting the interests of its customers and shareholders remains its highest priority, and that the bank reserves the right to take legal action against any entity spreading false news designed to damage its reputation. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and maintaining a strong, well-managed financial institution dedicated to safeguarding the Maldivian economy and its customers.