Kundu Finance, one of Papua New Guinea’s newest but fastest growing financial institutions, is setting a new standard in responsible lending, one that blends cultural identity, innovation, and a people-first approach.
Recognizing the daily demands of the modern workforce, Kundu Finance offers online loan applications that allow clients to apply from anywhere even during working hours. This digital convenience removes the need to visit a branch, making the process faster and more efficient. It's especially helpful for employees and their Human Resource teams, as it reduces disruption to business operations and enables financial support without leaving the workplace.
In a country crowded with financial institutions, Kundu Finance stands apart with a philosophy deeply rooted in PNG culture and community responsibility. What makes them unique? Their focus on responsible lending, a value that informs everything from client relationships to loan approvals.
Kundu offers accessible and reliable financial services, even while you're at work. This saves time and the cost of travel to Port Moresby for those in other provinces. Kundu Finance aims to reach workforces in Mining, Petroleum, Agriculture, Education, Health, Business, and the Public Sector across PNG.
In an exclusive interview with PNG Business News, CEO Benjamin Wong shared,
“Our goal is simple: help people within their means. We are not here to burden them with large debts. We want them to grow with us.”
The "Kundu" in Kundu Finance is more than just a name, it is a symbol of PNG’s identity and tradition. The kundu drum, an iconic instrument used in storytelling and cultural expression, lies at the heart of the company’s brand.
“Our slogan is ‘Our Drumbeat, Our Stories, Our Future…’ It reflects the stories of our clients, our journey, and our future with Papua New Guinea. We are not just a financial institution, we are part of the community,” Mr Wong explained.
“Our vision is to be an innovative financial service provider with a strong sense of community responsibility. Every decision, from how much to lend, to how we advise, is based on transparency and empathy.”
Changing Lives, One Client at a Time
Kundu Finance is not just processing loans, it is /transforming lives. Mr. Wong shared stories that illustrate the company is unique, client-first approach:
- A truck driver, already in debt, applied for a second loan to build a home on customary land. Instead of approving the loan blindly, Kundu advised him to wait, recognizing that additional debt would strain his income.
“We didn’t make money off him that day, but we gained a long-term client who trusts us.”
- A health worker from Western Province, stranded in Port Moresby due to medical reasons, approached Kundu for assistance to return home.
“We saw the urgency and helped her. To this day, she visits our office just to say hello. That is a connection money cannot buy.”
- An education officer, misled by high-interest loans from other lenders, was guided by Kundu to repay faster and save on interest.
“No one had ever explained it to him before. He walked away financially smarter—and loyal.”
- A public servant with a poor credit history and school fee obligations was coached to borrow a realistic amount.
“Now he has repaid part of his loan and is proud of being a responsible borrower,” Mr Wong added, beaming.
Rapid Growth and Technological Edge
Though incorporated in 2018, Kundu Finance officially began operations in late 2024. In less than a year, it has amassed over 2,000 clients, an impressive feat for a new entrant. Its rapid growth reflects the power of word-of-mouth and client satisfaction.
Kundu Finance is also the first in PNG to operate a cloud-based loan management system, hosted on Microsoft Azure. This ensures speed, security, and scalability.
“We chose the cloud for its top-tier security and flexibility. Cyber threats in PNG are real, so protecting our clients' data is non-negotiable.”
The cloud also enables efficient nationwide service delivery, positioning Kundu well for national expansion.
Speed, Service & Security
With a tiered client approach and a streamlined process, Kundu offers fast loan approvals.
“We can’t always promise 24-hour turnaround, but for priority clients especially in government departments and corporate payroll systems, we strive for same-day disbursements,” Mr Wong confirmed.
The company partners with employers to process salary-deducted loan repayments, simplifying access for employees. We encourage HR departments to work with us to make financing easier and more efficient for their staff.
Financial Literacy at the Core
Unlike many lenders, Kundu treats financial literacy as a core responsibility.
“Why do we run financial literacy programs? Because financially literate clients are better clients. We teach them to plan, manage debt, and borrow responsibly. We want to create a financially strong PNG not just grow our loan book.”
This educational approach will inform future products, such as savings accounts, asset financing, and housing loans.
The Road Ahead
Currently operating from Port Moresby, Kundu is preparing to open a back-office sales and finance center in Waigani and plans to open a branch in another province by early next year.
Over the next three to five years, Kundu plans a gradual national rollout, prioritizing areas with the strongest demand.
“Our biggest challenge is unrealistic borrowing expectations. Many want more than they can repay. Changing that mindset takes time and trust.”
Still, the CEO’s proudest achievement is his team.
“The proudest thing? Building a team that shows up every day with integrity and care. We call it the Kundu way.”
Mr. Wong ended his interview saying,
“I treat everyone with respect staff, clients, partners regardless of background or title. We are building something not just about money, but about people. Something that lasts.”
Kundu Finance is more than a lender. It is a movement with cultural roots, innovative technology, and a deep focus on client wellbeing.
A new beat in PNG’s financial rhythm.
