𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥-𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐎𝐑𝐎 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤

…𝑳𝒊𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆

By Yeshey Lhadon

ORO Bank, Asia’s first full-reserve digital bank, is redefining banking by adopting a model focused on trust, liquidity, and transparency. By maintaining 100 percent of customer deposits in reserve, ORO Bank eliminates the risks of bank runs and insolvency associated with traditional fractional reserve banking.

This revolutionary approach has drawn significant attention since the bank’s launch in May 2024, particularly from customers seeking secure, non-lending alternatives in an increasingly unpredictable digital banking landscape.
Unlike traditional banks that lend out deposits, ORO Bank guarantees that customer funds remain fully liquid and accessible. By avoiding risky lending practices, the bank assures depositors that their money is always available.

“We aim to offer more than just a banking service, we’re providing financial peace of mind,” said Mike Kayamori, CEO of ORO Bank. “In today’s uncertain market, we believe that security and transparency are non-negotiable values for customers.”

Instead of generating revenue through loan interest, ORO Bank plans to offer fee-based premium services such as fixed-term deposits, card services, and wealth management solutions. The bank currently does not charge fees for holding deposits in full-reserve accounts, making it an attractive option for individuals and businesses focused on security over returns.

In collaboration with the Gelephu Investment and Development Corporation (GIDC), ORO Bank is launching an innovative Fixed-Term Deposit (FTD) program to support the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) and its international airport. This initiative offers Bhutanese living abroad a chance to invest in the country’s future while earning competitive returns in either United States dollar (USD) or Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN).

“This is more than a financial opportunity; it’s a chance to contribute to country’s progress,” said Ujjwal Dahal, CEO of GIDC. “The Gelephu Mindfulness City project is a visionary endeavour, and the construction of the international airport is a cornerstone of this development.”

The Fixed-Term Deposit (FTD) program offers flexibility through various options to suit the needs of Non-Resident Bhutanese (NRBs). Depositors can choose a One-Time Fixed-Term Deposit, requiring a minimum investment of USD 1,000 for a 10-year term, with annual interest rates of 4 percent in USD or 10 percent in ngultrum (Nu). Alternatively, the Monthly Subscription option allows participants to invest as little as USD 250 per month for two years, earning annual returns of 3 percent in USD or 8 percent in ngultrum. For added convenience, the program includes an Early Redemption feature, enabling participants to withdraw their funds after five years without incurring penalties.

“Since the window period is just over a month, indeed, very short period, ORO bank offers subscription option” said Mike Kayamori. Subscribers will receive recognition at the new Gelephu airport terminal, further connecting them to this nation-building effort.

ORO Bank has seen strong growth in its user base, especially among digital banking clients. While still awaiting final approvals from platforms like Apple and Google, the bank anticipates launching its FTD offerings on November 25, 2024, with subscriptions open until the end of the year.

There are about 250 applications from Bhutanese Living abroad that ORO bank is trying to register as of date. Ken Mazzio, Chief Compliance Officer, ORO Bank noted, “We are focused on ensuring a seamless onboarding process for our growing client base. Currently, we’re manually reviewing applications to maintain our high standards of compliance and security.”

ORO Bank is also exploring partnerships with international financial institutions, including DBS Bank, to enhance its global services.

ORO Bank’s model aligns with the values of the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative: sustainability, mindfulness, and innovation. By leveraging technology and full-reserve banking principles, ORO Bank positions itself as a leader in secure and transparent financial services.

For Bhutanese living abroad, the FTD program offers a meaningful way to contribute to the country’s development while ensuring the security of their investments.