World Bank mobilizes record private capital for development

The World Bank Group mobilized an unprecedented $112 billion in private capital in fiscal year 2026, more than tripling the $35 billion mobilized in 2022.

This achievement is part of a wider effort by the Bank to attract greater private investment into developing economies through its own funds, guarantees, and expertise, particularly in sectors with potential for economic growth and job creation. The increase in mobilized private capital occurred across different economic categories.

Lower-middle-income countries saw their mobilized private capital rise from $14 billion to $37 billion, while upper-middle-income countries experienced a more than fourfold increase, going from $12 billion to $50 billion. However, low-income countries, which face significant challenges attracting private investment, maintained a mobilized amount of around $3 billion. Africa also saw substantial growth, with private capital mobilization increasing from approximately $9 billion to $22 billion, a nearly 150 percent increase.

The World Bank Group attributes these results to three years of reforms aimed at strengthening connections with the private sector. These reforms included accelerated and streamlined business processes, closer links between public and private segments, and increased investment instruments for investors. The Group also unified various institutional units within each country to create a single point of contact for public-private collaboration and developed integrated country strategies based on development needs and investment priorities.

The Bank also issued over $25 billion in guarantees in fiscal year 2026, exceeding its 2030 target four years ahead of schedule. World Bank Group President Ajay Banga stated the organization changed how it operates to attract more private capital, adding, “But that number only matters if the capital reaches where it can create opportunities and jobs.”