Shareholders with Bahrain-based Ithmaar Bank recently approved of the new group structure plans that will help the core retail banking business grow along with the bank’s strategic focus. The new plans were part of a proposal from the bank's board of directors and are still subject to approvals and further changes. The new structure will better allow the bank to compete with the global market. Ithmaar Bank Chairman Prince Amr Al Faisal said this new group structure will help lower the risk profile of the new banking entity and enhance shareholder value.