EBRD invests in sustainability-linked bond issued by Romanian Autonom

• EBRD invests €6.7 million in sustainability-linked bond issued by Romanian car leasing and rental firm Autonom
• Proceeds to support Autonom’s sustainable growth, help reduce carbon footprint and increase female representation in automotive sector.
• Bank’s investment supports the development of Romania’s capital market and the decarbonisation of the transport sector.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is investing €6.7 million in a €30 million sustainability-linked bond issued by Autonom, a Romanian car leasing and rental company.

The Bank’s investment will support Autonom’s sustainable growth as it continues to expand and renew its car fleet to meet increased demand from local businesses.

The company has committed to ambitious sustainability targets, including reducing its carbon intensity and increasing female participation in the automotive sector. It plans to cut its operating fleet’s carbon intensity emissions by 55 per cent by 2030. Autonom is also targeting an increase of women in management from 37 per cent in 2023 to 46 per cent by 2030.

These ambitious goals strengthen Autonom’s commitment to continue the sustainability pathway set in 2021 when the company issued its landmark first sustainability-linked bond – Romania’s first issuance and a milestone for the country.

As part of the EBRD’s investment, Autonom has also committed to implementing a company-wide digital skills programme covering its entire workforce, focusing on areas such as digital literacy, data analytics and AI, further strengthening its long-term competitiveness and supporting Romania’s digital transition.

Victoria Zinchuk, EBRD Director for Romania said: “We’re delighted to support Autonom’s growth journey with this investment. Not only will this successful issuance help Autonom achieve its ambitious sustainability targets, but crucially, it will also contribute to the deepening of Romania’s capital market. We’re pleased Autonom has been able to successfully tap into the corporate bond market, and hope more companies follow suit”.

Founded in 2006 in Piatra Neamț by entrepreneurs Marius Ștefan and Dan Ștefan, Autonom has grown into the largest independent provider of integrated mobility solutions in Romania. The company expanded organically as well as via acquisitions and now has more than 600 employees, a nationwide network of over 50 agencies and a diversified client base. It operates a fleet of more than 17,600 vehicles, with around 31 per cent hybrid and electric.

"The EBRD's participation in this bond issuance is particularly meaningful to us. More than an investor, the EBRD has supported Autonom through key stages of growth, backing our focus on financial discipline, long-term investment and sustainable development.

Their continued confidence reaffirms the strength of our business model and our long-term vision. This collaboration shows what can be achieved when partners share values, trust and a commitment to lasting impact," said the founders.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Romania. The Bank has invested a total of more than €12.5 billion in 594 projects in Romania. Developing the country’s capital markets and supporting its energy security and transition are two of the Bank’s key priorities there.