Casablanca – The Banque Marocaine pour le Commerce et l’Industrie (BMCI) has taken a decisive step in its digital transformation by acquiring full ownership of its IT subsidiary, BDSI (Banque de Services et de Développement Informatique). This acquisition, approved on March 19, 2025, by BMCI’s Supervisory Board, marks the beginning of a merger-absorption process that is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.

A move towards greater technological control

BDSI, established in 2004, has played a crucial role in managing and evolving BNP Paribas’ banking IT systems in Africa and overseas territories. By integrating BDSI into its core operations, BMCI aims to strengthen its control over technological infrastructure, streamline internal processes, and reduce dependency on outsourced IT services. This move aligns with BMCI’s broader strategy of enhancing operational efficiency and reinforcing its competitive edge in the financial sector.

Implications of the acquisition

With this transaction, BMCI now owns 100% of BDSI, a development that simplifies its governance and operational structure. The integration of BDSI’s workforce into BMCI will not only bring in specialized expertise but also foster a more agile and responsive IT environment. The bank expects this internalization to optimize costs previously associated with IT outsourcing while accelerating the pace of innovation.

BMCI’s commitment to this strategic realignment underscores the growing importance of technological independence in the banking sector. The ability to directly oversee IT developments will enable BMCI to adapt more quickly to industry changes and customer needs, ensuring a seamless digital banking experience.

No capital increase required

Since BMCI already holds full ownership of BDSI, the merger-absorption will not require a capital increase. This ensures a transparent and streamlined financial transition, avoiding dilution of shareholder equity. The process remains subject to regulatory approvals, but once finalized, BDSI will be fully integrated into BMCI as a legal and operational entity.

BNP Paribas’ strategic realignment in Africa

This acquisition comes amid BNP Paribas’ ongoing efforts to restructure its African operations. Over the past few years, the French banking giant has divested from multiple markets, including Gabon, Burkina Faso, Mali, Tunisia, and Côte d’Ivoire. The decision to transfer full control of BDSI to BMCI aligns with this broader trend, allowing BMCI to take full charge of its IT ecosystem while BNP Paribas refocuses its global strategy.

BMCI’s acquisition of BDSI represents a major step toward technological self-sufficiency and operational optimization. By consolidating its IT capabilities under one roof, the bank is positioning itself for greater agility and efficiency in an increasingly digitalized financial landscape. With the planned completion of the merger in 2025, BMCI is set to enhance its technological resilience and reinforce its commitment to innovation-driven banking services.