OTP Bank’s acquisition of Ipoteka Bank is serving as a model for the future privatisation of state-owned banks in Uzbekistan and represents a pivotal moment in the country’s economic transformation. Hungary’s leading lender entry to the fast-growing market is bringing expertise and knowledge crucial to Uzbekistan’s evolving financial market. As the country of 37mn continues its transition to a market economy, demand for retail banking services, consumer loans and business financing is set to rise. OTP, which already holds a strong position in mortgage and consumer lendingt, is bracing for robu…