FLASHNEWS:

PACRA Holds Stable Ratings for JWS Pakistan, Highlighting Growth and Community Impact

Karachi, The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA) has reaffirmed the stable entity ratings of JWS Pakistan (JWSP), a non-banking microfinance company focused on women's entrepreneurial development through microloans, reflecting its solid performance and community impact.

According to The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited, JWSP has been active since 2015, primarily in Punjab, with a network of 110 branches across 22 districts. The company, notable for empowering women entrepreneurs who make up 99% of its borrower base, has shown robust growth with a gross loan portfolio reaching PKR 5,920 million as of December 2023, up from PKR 4,393 million in FY22. This growth translated to an increase in markup income and profit after tax, indicating efficient financial and operational management.

JWSP’s low infection ratio, substantially better than the industry average, points to effective receivables management and recovery processes. Despite economic challenges, the company has managed to improve its portfolio at risk, reflecting a stable financial condition. With funding from both local and international sources, JWSP is poised for future growth, though it must navigate the effects of rising lending rates and regulatory constraints on deposit mobilization.

The ratings consider JWSP’s limited geographical presence and market share while acknowledging its potential for expansion and risk management. The future focus for JWSP includes leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and maintaining the quality of its asset portfolio.