The establishment of Lion International Bank S.C., on October 2, 2006 in accordance with Proclamation No፡ 84/94 and Commercial Code of Ethiopia has marked a shift in ownership as the company based its roots in a larger number of shareholders than any other Bank has had during the time and has become a pioneer for the Banks that came later. The then 3,739 shareholders have subscribed a capital of Birr 432.5 million and have had an initial paid-up capital of Birr 108.2 million; Lion International Bank commenced operation on 6th January 2007 with three branches.