Partior signs MoU with NBB for Bahraini dinar settlement initiative

By Divya Shah

Why it matters: The partnership highlights growing interest in blockchain-based settlement infrastructure among banks in the GCC. For FinTechs, it signals opportunities in cross-border payments, digital settlement networks, and tokenised financial infrastructure. It also reflects increasing collaboration between traditional banks and emerging payment platforms to improve international transaction efficiency.

Partior has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) to explore the introduction of Bahraini dinar settlement on its blockchain-based payments and settlement network. 

The agreement establishes a framework for both parties to evaluate NBB’s potential role as a settlement bank on the network, including the operating model and implementation requirements needed to support Bahraini dinar transactions. 

Partior operates a live multi-bank blockchain platform designed to facilitate cross-border payments and settlement between financial institutions, helping improve transparency and efficiency in international money movement. 

Vineet Munot, Group Head of Transaction Banking at NBB, said, “Our engagement with Partior allows us to assess how NBB’s local market capabilities could support Bahraini Dinar settlement within an emerging digital infrastructure.”

Munot added, “We will approach this opportunity with the appropriate technical, operational and regulatory considerations as we determine its potential value for NBB and Bahrain’s banking and finance industry.” 

Humphrey Valenbreder, CEO of Partior, said, “Our work with NBB gives us an avenue to assess how Bahraini Dinar settlement could be incorporated into Partior’s network, building on our growing presence across the GCC.” 

The initiative forms part of NBB’s broader strategy to strengthen its transaction banking capabilities and enhance international connectivity through emerging financial infrastructure technologies. 

The proposed arrangement remains at the evaluation stage, with neither party announcing a timeline for implementation. If progressed, the initiative could expand the range of currencies available on Partior’s network while supporting faster and more transparent cross-border settlement across the Gulf region.