Karachi: Escorts Investment Bank Limited, a subsidiary of Bahria Town (Pvt) Limited, continues to face financial challenges as it struggles to meet the Minimum Capital Requirement set by non-banking finance regulations. Despite a focus on house finance and a reduction in losses, the bank remains non-compliant with the required PKR 750 million in capital, relying heavily on sponsor support to sustain operations.
According to The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited, Escorts Bank has managed to reduce its losses through cautious lending practices and a focus on profit from financing and other income. However, significant non-markup expenses and past financial adjustments, including the write-off of tax refunds and re-assessment of deferred tax assets, have strained the bank’s equity levels. The bank’s revenue primarily stems from its mortgage and microfinance portfolios.
The future of Escorts Bank hinges on the development and implementation of a comprehensive business plan aimed at improving asset quality and achieving profitability. Continued sponsor support and an equity-based funding strategy are deemed crucial for the bank to obtain an Investment Finance Services license and stabilize its financial standing.