NIB finances projects that improve competitiveness and the environment of the Nordic and Baltic countries. The Bank offers long-term loans and guarantees on competitive market terms to its clients in the private and public sectors. NIB is an international financial institution owned by Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden. The Bank has lending operations both in and outside its member countries. NIB acquires the funds for its lending by borrowing on the international capital markets. NIB's bonds enjoy the highest possible credit rating.