The decision marks the first step in the banks’ privatization.
The NBU published the council’s conclusion, which fulfills a requirement of the IMF-backed economic and financial policy memorandum signed June 19, 2025. Under that agreement, Kyiv pledged to reduce the state’s share in the banking sector by selling state-owned stakes in key financial institutions.
“This review confirms that the sale of state-held shares in Sense Bank and Ukrgasbank will not have a negative impact on the banks’ financial condition or on overall banking-system stability, provided the sale follows the procedures set out by law,” the NBU said.
Council members also wrote that any divestment should be carefully managed to maximize the value of the banks’ shares.
Co-chairs at the meeting were Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and NBU Andriy Pyshnyy.
Earlier this year, the IMF declined to set firm deadlines for the privatization of Sense Bank and Ukrgasbank. In March, the NBU stated that the two banks are unlikely to be sold by the end of 2025.