Royal family of Morocco gains $2.2 billion from Attijariwafa Bank stake

The Alaouite family, Morocco’s royal family, long regarded as Africa’s wealthiest royal household, has enjoyed an impressive increase in fortune this year, with estimated gains of $2.2 billion from the family’s stake in Attijariwafa Bank. 

The increase comes as shares of the Casablanca-based lender continue to climb, reflecting both investor confidence in the bank and careful management of the monarchy’s investments. Through Société Nationale d’Investissement (Al Mada), the royal family indirectly owns 46.5 percent of Attijariwafa Bank, a stake now valued at roughly $8.6 billion.

Attijariwafa Bank’s market cap hits $17.5 billion

Headquartered in Rabat, Attijariwafa Bank is Morocco’s largest financial institution and ranks among Africa’s top five banks by market value. The bank employs more than 20,000 people and operates in 25 countries, serving nearly 10 million individual and corporate clients. Its business covers retail banking, corporate finance, and cross-border services, making it a cornerstone of Morocco’s financial system and a prominent player across the continent.

Since the beginning of the year, Attijariwafa Bank’s share price has risen 34 percent, moving from MAD583 ($64.6) to MAD781 ($86.6). This growth has lifted the bank’s market capitalization to $17.5 billion, delivering strong returns for major shareholders, including the royal family. The Alaouite family’s stake has grown from MAD58.4 billion ($6.4 billion) to MAD78.2 billion ($8.6 billion) in just eight months—a $2.2 billion increase.

Long-term strategy pays off

The rise in Attijariwafa Bank’s stock reflects not just the bank’s solid performance but also the royal family’s patient and deliberate approach to investing. Over the years, the Alaouites have maintained interests across banking, telecommunications, energy, and real estate, prioritizing steady growth and long-term stability over quick profits.

This year, the royal family’s $2.2 billion gain from their stake in Attijariwafa Bank underscores Morocco’s growing role in Africa’s financial sector and highlights the monarchy’s influence on the country’s economy. As the bank continues to perform strongly, the stake is likely to remain a key pillar of the family’s wealth and strategic investments in Morocco and beyond.