For more than a century and a half, BIL has accompanied the evolution of Luxembourg and its customers. Through the key moments that have shaped our history, this website invites you to discover how the Bank has contributed to the country's development, supported its businesses and accompanied the projects of private individuals. A shared history of progress, innovation and trust.
1856
Creation of BIL
Founded on 8 March 1856, BIL became Luxembourg's first private bank. Born from the vision of Gustave Messiven, Abraham Oppenheim and Raphael Erlanger, it accompanied the country's major transformations, notably the development of the railway network, which was essential to Luxembourg's industrialisation and future prosperity.
1856
On 31 July 1856, it opened the country's first bank branches on Rue Notre Dame in Luxembourg City, offering individuals and businesses access to financial services. In 1901,
BIL's headquarters moved to Boulevard Royal, in the heart of the capital.
1911
Creation of ARBED
By participating in the founding of Aciéries Réunies de Burbach-Eich-Dudelange, BIL supported the structuring of an industrial giant that would become ArcelorMittal. The Bank has played a lasting role in Luxembourg's economic development.
1914
Banknote issuance
By becoming the first and only bank authorised to issue banknotes in Luxembourg, BIL played a central role in structuring the national monetary system. This founding act laid the foundations for the country's long-term financial credibility and economic stability.
1920 & 1925
Supporting the country's development
By supporting the creation of brickworks in Steinfort and Bettembourg, BIL contributed to the development of new neighbourhoods, public infrastructure and housing,
directly helping to improve the living environment of local residents.
1929
Luxembourg Stock Exchange
BIL played a founding role in the establishment of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and has held a strategic stake in it since 1961. In 1963, it paved the way for international finance by issuing the world's first euro bond, facilitating access to new opportunities for investors.
1948 & 1955
Development of transport and communications
By supporting Luxembourg Airlines Cie and CLT, BIL contributed to opening up the country to the international market and improving its connectivity, benefiting businesses and citizens alike.
1970
Founding of CEDEL
BIL participates in the creation of CEDEL, later Clearstream, and chairs its Board of Directors for 20 years. In doing so, it contributes to building the European financial infrastructure that facilitates international trade today.
1989
Inauguration of the Indépendance headquarters
A true symbol of modernity and solidity, the Indépendance headquarters marks a decisive step in the Bank's history. With its ambitious architecture and location in the heart of the capital, it embodies BIL's institutional renewal and strengthens its influence in Luxembourg and internationally.
1999
Fondation Indépendance
BIL creates the Fondation Indépendance to provide long-term support for the Luxembourg arts scene. It encourages contemporary creation and promotes local talent, strengthening the link between the bank and the community.
2011
A systemic bank
The Luxembourg government acquires a 10% stake in BIL, recognising the bank's systemic role in the country's financial stability. A shared commitment to serving the economy and customers.
2016
Digital Tech Fund
BIL becomes a partner of the Digital Tech Fund, a public-private seed fund that supports technology start-ups and strengthens Luxembourg's innovation ecosystem. In this way, it contributes to the emergence of innovative solutions in key areas such as cybersecurity, fintech and digital health.
2020
Commitment during the pandemic
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, BIL is working alongside the Luxembourg government and other local players to put in place support measures for businesses and the self-employed to preserve economic activity and support its customers during this period of uncertainty.
Photo SIP/MFIN
2023
New Core Banking System
BIL successfully migrates to a new Core Banking System, a major step towards modernising its banking infrastructure and offering its customers faster, more reliable and more innovative services.
2024–2025
Rebranding: Building Tomorrow Together
BIL renews its identity and affirms a forward-looking vision focused on innovation and collaboration.
2025
Strategy 2025–2030
The new strategy aims to enhance customer experience, accelerate digitalisation, improve resilience, simplify operations and expand BIL's presence in neighbouring markets, always with the ambition of offering greater value and proximity.
Building Tomorrow
Together