Microbank Crystal has signed the largest senior loan in its history, totaling USD 20 million, with Invest In Visions, a reputable, impact-driven fund based in Germany. The facility, denominated in Georgian Lari will be deployed to finance micro and small enterprises across Georgia.
This landmark transaction represents Crystal’s first major international borrowing in 2026. The GEL denominated structure strengthens Crystal’s asset-liability management framework, mitigates foreign exchange risk and expands its capacity to provide sustainable local currency financing to entrepreneurs.
Ilia Revia, General Director of Crystal, commented: “Coming one year after Crystal obtained its microbank license, this agreement underscores the bank’s strategic transformation success, and reflects the growing trust of global investors in Crystal’s governance, operational performance, and long-term strategic direction as a regulated microbank. This facility will enable Crystal to further expand access to finance for micro and small enterprises, driving business growth, job creation, and broader economic development across Georgia.”
Sergej Leon Shkolnikov, Senior Portfolio Manager at Invest In Visions, commented: We are proud to mark another important milestone in our long-standing partnership with Crystal. More than a decade ago, we disbursed our very first loan to Crystal. Today, this new facility, and notably our first loan to Crystal in local currency, reflects both the strength of our relationship and the remarkable growth of the institution.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of supporting Crystal in its transformation from a small microfinance institution into the largest micro bank in the country. Along the way, our partnership has helped finance thousands of small entrepreneurs across Georgia, contributing to local economic development and greater financial inclusion. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration in the years ahead.
About Microbank Crystal
Founded in Georgia, Crystal is recognized as one of the country’s leading financial institutions, known for its sustained growth and robust reputation. On February 12, 2025, the company officially received its microbank license from the National Bank of Georgia. With 27 years of experience, a loan portfolio of over 600 million GEL, a team of more than 1,000 employees across 47 branches, and a client base exceeding 100,000 individuals nationwide, Crystal continues to be a key player in Georgia’s financial landscape. The company maintains strategic partnerships with major international and local financial institutions.
About Invest In Visions
Invest in Visions GmbH was founded in 2006 by Edda Schröder with the vision of providing institutional and private investors in Germany with access to impact investments – investments that generate not only financial returns but also positive social impact.
In 2011, Invest in Visions reached a significant milestone: together with HANSAINVEST GmbH, it launched the first microfinance fund in Germany that is also open to private investors. In 2025, another innovative step followed: in cooperation with HANSAINVEST LUX, the IIV Solar Electrification Debt ELTIF was launched – the first European investment fund dedicated to financing off-grid electricity supply in Sub-Saharan Africa. This fund is accessible to both institutional and private investors.