EBRD invests in sustainability-linked bond issued by Romanian Autonom
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, according to a press release by the EBRD. The investment will support Autonom’s sustainable growth as the company continues to expand and renew its car fleet to meet increased demand from local businesses. It also supports the development of Romania’s capital market and the decarbonisation of the transport sector.
Autonom was founded in 2006 in Piatra Neamț by entrepreneurs Marius Ștefan and Dan Ștefan. The company has grown into the largest independent provider of integrated mobility solutions in Romania, expanding organically and through acquisitions. It now has more than 600 employees and a nationwide network of over 50 agencies. Autonom operates a fleet of more than 17,600 vehicles, with around 31 per cent hybrid and electric.
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 goals build on the sustainability pathway set in 2021, when Autonom issued Romania’s first sustainability-linked bond.
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.
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”.
The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Romania, having invested more than €12.5 billion in 594 projects in the country. Developing Romania’s capital markets and supporting its energy security and transition are two of the Bank’s key priorities there. Autonom’s founders noted that the EBRD has supported the company through key stages of growth, backing its focus on financial discipline, long-term investment and sustainable development. The collaboration reflects shared values, trust and a commitment to lasting impact.