Lahore, November 23, 2021 (PPI-OT):KTRADE Securities Limited (“KTRADE” or the “Company”) is an emerging brokerage house re-launched in 2018 with an aim to provide technology-driven and innovative products to the retail investors. The rating upgrade reflects the improvement in the Company’s governance structure, where an independent director was taken on-board during CY21, resulting in a strengthened governance framework. The ratings accounts for the adequate sponsors’ profile, seasoned management team and a strong control environment. KTRADE has recently converted into public unlisted company for inclusion in the category of “Trading and Clearing Members” of PSX.
KTRADE has outsourced its internal audit function and has devised proficient risk assessment procedures. The benchmark app ‘KTRADE’ has a user-friendly interface and it is one the most used app of financial industry. During CY21, the Company has doubled its retail investors base. KTRADE has formed an IT Company by the name of Bloktech Limited with an ownership stake of ~81% to cater to the ongoing needs of IT infrastructure. This reflects the commitment of management towards digitization and innovation. KTRADE has also signed MoU with one of the major microfinance Institute to capture vast universe of retail market.
The Company’s current market share stood at ~1.5% and the topline is concentrated to commission on equity brokerage; however, the Company has diversified its product base to augment the revenue stream. During CY21, the Company has acquired the license for ‘Consultant to the Issue’ and the license for trading in fixed income securities which may enhance the sustainability and diversification of revenue stream. The rating upgrade also takes into account the notable improvement in brokerage commission of ~2.5x which stand at ~PKR 154mln at end-Jun’21 (FY20: ~PKR 45mln).
The Company is also intending to increase the branch network and has also filed application with PSX in this regard. Zero leveraged capital structure, improved liquidity indicators bode well for the Company. Furthermore, the Company has adequate capitalization levels with the Net Capital Balance (NCB) of ~PKR 393mln as at end-Jun’21 and post capital injection the equity of the Company has reached to ~PKR 506mln which provides comfort from the financial risk perspective.
The ratings are dependent on the management’s ability to strengthen revenue base by augmenting consultancy and advisory services. Improvement in market share and sustaining profitability from core operations remain critical. Meanwhile, upholding strong internal controls, sound governance structure, retention of key management personnel and diligent monitoring of risks is important.
For more information, contact:
Analyst,
The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA)
Awami Complex, FB1, Usman Block New Garden Town,
Lahore, Pakistan
Tel: +92-42-5869504-6
Fax: +92-42-5830425
Email: hammad.rashid@pacra.com
Website: www.pacra.com