MDBs Maintain Strong Financial Positions, Joint Report Finds

MANILA, PHILIPPINES (14 October 2026) - Multilateral development banks (MDBs), including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), have maintained strong capital and liquidity positions through a period of rising global uncertainty, according to a joint report published today. MDBs hold nearly $1.5 trillion in development assets-loans, equity investments, and guarantees-supported by $163 billion in paid-in capital from shareholders, equivalent to more than $9 for every $1 contributed.

"Strong balance sheets give MDBs the power to act when people and economies are under pressure," said ADB Vice-President for Finance and Risk Management Roberta Casali. "Our shareholders entrust us with scarce public funds, and we have a duty to make every dollar work as hard as possible. That financial strength helps keep economies moving, businesses open, and families able to afford food and shelter when shocks hit."

The Multilateral Development Banks' Comparison Report 2026, published by the Global Risk and Finance Forum (GRaFF), this year chaired by ADB, compares capital, liquidity, risk, and credit ratings across 15 of the world's largest multilateral institutions. Most hold triple-A credit ratings.

For the first time, the report tracks key financial indicators over three years. The results show that MDB financial position remained stable from 2023 to 2025 as higher energy prices and supply chain disruptions put pressure on many developing economies. Their financial strength has allowed MDBs to increase support when economies come under strain.

The report also found that most MDBs kept non-performing loans below 2%. Liquidity buffers remain substantial, covering short- to medium-term debt 2.6 times over. MDBs also continued to share risk through exposure exchange agreements, including a new $3 billion agreement signed in October 2025 between ADB and the World Bank.

The report is part of an effort by MDBs to be more transparent, by making their financial performance easier to compare and scrutinize. MDBs are also publishing loan performance data through the Global Emerging Markets Risk Database (GEMs) consortium.

ADB and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) coordinated the 2026 MDB Comparison Report. The Report responds to a recommendation by the G20 Independent Review of MDB Capital Adequacy Frameworks for MDBs to enhance cooperation on systemic issues. The first edition was published in 2025.

Institutions participating in the 2026 report are the African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Caribbean Development Bank, Council of Europe Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Investment Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, IDB Invest, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Development Association, International Finance Corporation, Islamic Development Bank, New Development Bank, and Nordic Investment Bank.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members-50 from the region.