Veterans of National Liberation Launch First Private Bank with Exclusively Timorese Capital
On September 4th, 2025, the inauguration ceremony of Banco do Nosso Futuro (BNF Portuguese acronyms), a financial institution founded and owned by the National Liberation Combatants Council (CCLN Portuguese acronyms), was held at the CCLN headquarters in Dili. The session was attended by the President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, the Vice Prime-Minister and Minister Coordinator for Social Affairs, Mariano Assanami Sabino, the Minister for National Liberation Combatants Affairs, Gil da Costa Monteiro “Oan Soru,” the Governor of the Central Bank of Timor-Leste (BCTL Portuguese acronyms), Hélder Lopes, and the Chairman of the CCLN Board, Vidal de Jesus “Riak Leman,” as well as other members of the Government and the CCLN, among other guests. 
Banco do Nosso Futuro is the first private bank with exclusively Timorese capital and not owned by the state, marking a milestone for veterans of the independence struggle, who are now also taking an active role in national economic development. Although created to meet the needs of veterans and their families, the institution has an inclusive mission and is open to all citizens, contributing to the promotion of financial inclusion throughout the country.
The Central Bank of Timor-Leste granted BNF a definitive operating license on August 6th, 2025, after evaluating the application submitted in July 2024 and confirming compliance with legal requirements. According to the BCTL, the presence of the new bank will foster growth and competition in the national banking sector, expand the population's access to banking services, and encourage the sector to support the development of the country's economy.
The inauguration ceremony included the symbolic opening of the first account by the President of the Republic, the signing of the commemorative plaque, the cutting of the inaugural ribbon, and the blessing of the building, marking the official launch of an institution that aims to establish itself as an integral part of Timor-Leste's economic future. END 
