ABA Bank is Cambodia’s largest commercial bank by assets, deposits, loans, and profitability, according to the National Bank of Cambodia’s Annual Supervision Report 2021‑2025. It is also the clear leader in smartphone‑based digital banking, with over 4 million customers and 3.8 million ABA Mobile app users.
This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about ABA Bank in 2026 – from its history and key products to fees, interest rates, and recent developments.
⚡ Quick Overview
📜 History & Growth
ABA Bank was established in 1996 as the Advanced Bank of Asia Limited. Its growth trajectory accelerated significantly after the National Bank of Canada became a majority shareholder, injecting substantial capital and modern banking expertise. In April 2026, ABA received regulatory approval for an additional US$220 million capital injection from its Canadian shareholder, bringing total shareholder’s equity to US$2.2 billion.
Notably, the shareholders have never repatriated any profit generated by ABA. Instead, they have continuously invested it back into the ABA ecosystem, focusing on technological advancements and human capital development.
The bank has also distinguished itself as a model corporate citizen, receiving the “GOLD” Certificate of Tax Compliance from the General Department of Taxation (GDT) for six consecutive years since 2019. Cumulatively from 2009 to 2024, ABA contributed approximately US$446 million in taxes to the state budget
🏛️ Products & Services
💳 Accounts
ABA is committed to promoting the national currency. In accordance with NBC instructions, ABA automatically opens Khmer Riel (KHR) accounts for customers free of charge, with no closing fees, no annual fees, and no minimum balance required. KHR accounts offer higher interest rates than USD accounts.
📱 ABA Mobile – The Best Banking App in Cambodia
ABA Mobile is consistently ranked as Cambodia’s leading mobile banking app. It supports three languages: Khmer, English, and Chinese. Key features include:
- Check account balances and transaction history
- Pay bills and top up any phone credit
- Transfer funds inside Cambodia and internationally (SWIFT)
- Open savings and deposit accounts instantly
- Scan KHQR codes to pay at shops, restaurants, and online
- Access instant loans against Fixed Deposits
- Create virtual cards for secure online shopping
- Cardless cash withdrawals at ABA ATMs
- Data‑free access for Smart Axiata customers (use ABA Mobile even with zero mobile data balance)
💰 Loans
ABA offers a wide range of loan products for individuals and businesses:
- Instant Loan – Emergency loan against your Fixed Deposit; repay anytime without penalty; interest charged only for days borrowed
- Personal loans – Competitive rates for various needs
- SME loans – Supporting small and medium enterprises
- Mortgage loans – For property purchase or construction
🌐 International Transfers
ABA supports inward SWIFT transfers in nine currencies (EUR, CAD, AUD, GBP, THB, VND, SGD, CNY, JPY) with zero inward fees as of 2026. Funds are converted to USD and credited to your ABA account with no maximum amount limit.
Required information for inward SWIFT transfers:
- Beneficiary Bank: Advanced Bank of Asia Limited
- SWIFT Code: ABAAKHPP
- Bank Address: #148, Preah Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh, Cambodia
🕌 Islamic Banking (Interest‑Free Mode)
In April 2026, ABA launched an Interest‑Free Mode in its mobile app for customers who prefer to manage their finances in accordance with Islamic principles. Any interest accrued is redirected to charitable programs supporting Cambodia’s Muslim community. The bank also serves as the exclusive payment gateway for the Hajj Fund mobile application, enabling secure contributions via KHQR or bank cards.
💵 Fees & Interest Rates (2026)
Fees
Interest Rates
ABA offers higher interest rates for KHR accounts compared to USD accounts. While USD savings rates are modest (around 0.25%–0.50% p.a.), Fixed Deposit rates are competitive, typically ranging from 2.5% to 4.0% p.a. depending on term and currency. Mobile Fixed Deposits opened via the ABA app offer higher interest rates than those opened at branch counters.
🆚 Why Expats Love ABA Bank
ABA is widely considered the most expat‑friendly bank in Cambodia. Key reasons include:
- Easy account opening – No minimum deposit for mobile accounts; online process takes minutes
- Excellent mobile app – English interface, KHQR payments, virtual cards, and instant notifications
- Low fees – No monthly fees, no minimum balance, free local transfers
- Great customer service – Responsive support and branch staff trained to assist foreigners
- Wide ATM network – Over 1,900 self‑banking machines nationwide
- Chinese language support – Full Chinese version of ABA Mobile now available
- Data‑free access – ABA Mobile works even with zero mobile data balance for Smart customers
📰 Recent News & Developments (2026)
💰 Capital Injection (April 2026)
ABA received regulatory approval for an additional US$220 million capital injection from National Bank of Canada, bringing total shareholder’s equity to US$2.2 billion. The funds will accelerate investments in digital banking and support SME growth.
🤝 Partnership with Ministry of Economy and Finance (April 2026)
ABA signed an MoU with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to foster Digital Economy and FinTech Development in Cambodia. ABA officially became a member of CamDX, Cambodia’s decentralized data exchange platform.
🕌 Islamic Banking Launch (April 2026)
ABA partnered with the Cambodia Amanah Takaful Association (CATA) to launch the Hajj Fund and Interest‑Free Mode, providing Shariah‑compliant financial solutions for Cambodia’s Muslim community.
🇨🇳 Chinese Language Support (April 2026)
ABA Mobile now supports the Chinese language, making it even more accessible for Chinese customers, investors, and tourists.
📱 Data‑Free Access for Smart Users (April 2026)
ABA customers who are Smart Axiata subscribers can now access ABA Mobile even with zero mobile data balance.
🏦 Branch Expansion (March 2026)
ABA opened six new branches across Phnom Penh, Kandal, and its first branch in Ratanakiri province (Banlung city), bringing the total branch network to 106.
❌ Denial of Bankruptcy Rumours (April 2026)
ABA Bank officially denied viral social media claims alleging bankruptcy, reaffirming its financial strength and stability.
🔧 Related Tools & Resources
- Directory of Financial Institutions in Cambodia – Complete list of NBC‑licensed banks
- Best Bank in Cambodia 2026 – Compare ABA, ACLEDA, Canadia, Wing, and FTB side‑by‑side
- Invest & Travel Smart Toolkit – Loan calculators, savings interest calculators, and more
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABA Bank safe?
Yes. ABA is Cambodia’s largest commercial bank, majority‑owned by the National Bank of Canada, one of North America’s most stable financial institutions. It is fully licensed by the National Bank of Cambodia and has a proven track record of financial stability.
Can a foreigner open an ABA account?
Absolutely. ABA is the most popular bank among expats. You can open a Mobile Savings Account via the ABA Mobile app or visit any branch with your passport and valid long‑stay visa (E‑class). No minimum deposit is required.
What is the minimum deposit for ABA Bank?
There is no minimum deposit for basic savings accounts opened via the ABA Mobile app. For some account types, the minimum is as low as $50.
How do I open an ABA account online?
Download the ABA Mobile app, tap “Open Instant Account,” and follow the instructions. A Cambodian ID card is required for Instant Account holders. Foreigners may need to visit a branch to complete the process.
What is KHQR?
KHQR is Cambodia’s national QR payment standard. ABA Mobile users can scan any KHQR code to pay instantly at millions of merchants nationwide – from street food stalls to supermarkets.
Does ABA offer loans?
Yes. ABA offers personal loans, SME loans, mortgage loans, and Instant Loans (emergency loans against Fixed Deposits) directly through the ABA Mobile app.
How do I contact ABA Bank?
- Phone: 023 225 333 (24/7 Contact Centre)
- Head Office: #148, Preah Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh
- Website: www.ababank.com
📢 Disclaimer
Bank policies, fees, interest rates, and product offerings may change without notice. This review is based on information available in April 2026. Always verify with ABA Bank’s official website or a branch before making financial decisions. This article does not constitute financial advice.
🎯 Final Thoughts
ABA Bank has earned its reputation as Cambodia’s premier digital bank. With its award‑winning mobile app, extensive branch network, low fees, and commitment to innovation, it remains the top choice for both local customers and expats. Whether you need a simple savings account, a business loan, or a seamless way to send money internationally, ABA offers a modern, reliable solution.
The bank’s recent initiatives – including Islamic banking, Chinese language support, data‑free app access, and a US$220 million capital injection – demonstrate its ongoing commitment to serving Cambodia’s diverse and growing customer base.