The National Bank of Georgia has been named the winner of the "Excellence in Innovation – Open Banking & Regulatory Sandbox Ecosystem Georgia 2026" award at the Global Banking & Finance Awards® 2026, organized by Global Banking & Finance Review.

The award recognizes the National Bank of Georgia's initiatives in advancing financial innovation, developing the Open Banking ecosystem, and strengthening its Regulatory Sandbox framework.

In recent years, the National Bank of Georgia has undertaken significant initiatives to promote an innovative financial ecosystem, foster competition, and support the adoption of financial technologies. A key element of this strategy has been the development of Open Banking infrastructure and the establishment of the Regulatory Sandbox, which enables fintech companies and financial institutions to test innovative products and services in a live environment under the close supervision of the regulator.

Particular recognition was given to the National Bank's approach, which focuses not only on encouraging innovation but also on delivering practical solutions that generate tangible value for consumers and the financial sector. Through the combined implementation of Open Banking and the Regulatory Sandbox, the National Bank has facilitated initiatives that have improved access to digital financial services, enhanced competition, and created new opportunities for fintech innovation.

A notable achievement has been the introduction of the Open Banking Onboarding API, which has significantly simplified the remote customer identification and account opening process for financial institutions. At the same time, successful projects implemented through the Regulatory Sandbox have demonstrated that an innovation-driven regulatory approach can effectively support the development of new business models while delivering meaningful benefits to consumers through more competitive and efficient financial services.

The Global Banking & Finance Awards® is an international awards program that annually recognizes leading financial institutions and organizations for excellence in innovation, leadership, and the implementation of best practices. The awards celebrate initiatives that make a significant contribution to the development and transformation of the global financial sector.

This recognition once again underscores the National Bank of Georgia's commitment to modernizing the country's financial sector, fostering innovation, and implementing international best practices.