The history of the Bank of Credit and Commerce International (BCCI) reflects a period of rapid international expansion, organisational development, and the management of complex operations across multiple jurisdictions.
This section provides a structured overview of key events during the bank’s establishment and its operations. These events are presented in context, reflecting the challenges faced by a global banking institution, together with actions taken during that period to continue operations. A perspective on BCCI’s closure by regulators - at a time when discussions on restructuring were ongoing - is also addressed. Some of these matters attracted significant media attention.
The aim is to present these events in a balanced manner, enabling readers to consider the wider context in which decisions were taken, including the roles of regulators, shareholders, and the broader operating environment.
A fuller account of BCCI the Bank and The Founder - can be explored elsewhere on this website, together with a Perspective on the key allegations. At its peak, BCCI had a presence in 73 countries and an extensive global network. Its banking activities ranged from retail services to corporate and trade finance, reflecting its approach to international banking. Beyond its banking operations, BCCI also supported philanthropic, sponsorship, and collaborative initiatives in several countries.
The key events covered in this section can also be accessed under the headings listed in the side menu:
- Establishment and Early Development (1972 – mid-1980s)
- Bank of America Divestment & Staff Benefit Trust (1978)
- Licensed Depositor Status in UK (1987)
- BCCI Central Treasury Losses (1984 - 1986)
- Money Laundering Indictment & Settlement(1988 - 1990)
- Internal Task Force Investigation & Disclosure to Bank of England (1990)
- Restructuring Programme (Overview)
- Liquidation (Overview)
- Bingham Report on BCCI (Overview)