IFC Advisory Services

IFC advises governments and state owned enterprises on the privatization of infrastructure assets and other forms of transactions that promote sustainable public-private partnerships. IFC is the only multilateral institution to offer direct advisory services to governments on the implementation of transactions with private sector participation.

IFC is at the forefront of advisory services in the East Asia & Pacific region in the water, power, and transportation sectors. IFC has recently agreed to provide support to governments on a number of projects in Asia and in Pacific islands. In the Philippines, for example, IFC is providing advice on the an extension of a light transit line in Manila and on another project to develop a rural electrification plan. IFC previously advised on creating water concessions that have helped expand service and reduce tariffs through private investment.

IFC's advisory staff are able to draw upon the World Bank Group's understanding of development issues to ensure that private infrastructure arrangements meet government goals-while still being commercially viable. IFC puts a premium on transparency in transaction design and implementation. IFC is committed to environmentally sustainable development and brings an indepth knowledge of best practice in the field to advisory mandates.

As lead transaction advisor, IFC offers the following benefits:

• Balancing private and public sector interests IFC combines the focus of a development institution with the direct experience as an investor and lender to private sector investors. IFC aims to balance public concerns, the desire for improved service quality, and long-term sector sustainability with the conditions necessary to attract private investment.
• Transparency and investor confidence IFC acts as neutral partner, committed to principles of transparency and fair play and to reaching consensus among stakeholders. IFC's reputation for neutrality and transparency provide the assurances needed to attract best-in-class strategic partners.
• Multi-skilled and experienced team The IFC team brings to the table extensive direct experience-in infrastructure project financing and investment as well as in infrastructure reform and development. These diverse skills allow IFC to address all aspects of an advisory mandate, understanding and responding to the concerns of both the government and the private sector.
• Experience with emerging markets Emerging markets have specific sets of issues and opportunities. Efforts to harness these opportunities require specialized skills and a dedicated team. IFC works only in emerging markets, and possesses unique direct experience in developing and implementing public-private partnerships.
• Pursuit of sustainable economic and social benefits IFC privatization transactions are designed to insure long lasting social benefits through improved service quality and long-term sector sustainability. Work here includes advising governments on the legal and regulatory framework to allow for efficient private sector participation, and assistance in designing new laws and regulatory institutions.
• Synergies with the World Bank While maintaining its private sector focus, IFC can mobilize sector expertise from within the World Bank Group. This additional knowledge is translated into practical, on-the-ground action to accomplish realistic, socially responsive transactions.
• Ties with the global investment community IFC draws on its strong links with the global investment community to attract well-known and well-established private investors with extensive experience in the provision of infrastructure services.