Scotiabank México to Boost Women’s Housing Loans with IFC Backing

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced an investment of up to US$250 million in Scotiabank México to expand  housing finance access for women. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, said the investment aims to strengthen Scotiabank México’s mortgage portfolio and address structural barriers that limit women’s access to homeownership. The move aligns with Plan México, the country’s national development strategy, which identifies access to safe and adequate housing as a key driver of social well-being and economic growth.

According to IFC, Mexico faces a housing deficit of an estimated 9 million units, particularly affecting rural and low-income communities. Gender disparities in housing finance remain significant: only 4.5% of women hold a mortgage compared with 7.2% of men, reflecting constraints such as income volatility, informality, and limited credit access — gaps IFC and Scotiabank México aim to narrow.

“The $250 million investment from IFC is a decisive endorsement of our sustainable finance strategy and will strengthen our ability to expand access to housing for more women,” said José Jorge Rivero, senior vice president of corporate banking, Scotiabank. He added that the initiative supports reducing structural gaps, promoting equal opportunity, and fostering inclusive growth.

IFC emphasized the partnership’s shared commitment to economic development, job creation, gender equality, and financial inclusion. Sanaa Abouzaid, IFC’s country manager for Mexico, said access to affordable, secure housing is central to economic opportunity. “By partnering with Scotiabank México, IFC contributes to job creation, closing the gender gap in housing finance, and building a replicable model of inclusive growth,” she said.

Beyond social impact, housing finance generates broader economic benefits. Each financed home supports construction activity, creating direct employment for workers, architects, engineers, and materials suppliers, while stimulating supply chains and related services across local economies.