Lahore, June 30, 2021 (PPI-OT):Bank AL Habib has been portraying a history of stable and consistent growth for more than a quarter of a century. The Bank’s superior standing was witnessed in the global financial crisis almost a decade ago. The trend continued to this day. This was reflected in the sound asset quality of the Bank, compared to many medium and large institutions taking a significant hit on their advances book. The rating reflects the Bank’s improved performance, exceptional asset quality, satisfactory financial profile and healthy liquidity. The Bank has solidified its relative positioning in the universe of large-sized banks by further augmenting its market share in terms of the customer deposit base.

The Bank’s customer deposits posted a growth of 22%, higher than the sector’s growth, to cross one trillion mark (CY20: PKR 1,083bln: CY19: PKR 890bln). The strength of the Bank is reflected in the high proportion of retail deposits in the total. The Bank continued with its strategy for outreach expansion – adding significant branches every year. Exceptional asset quality – lowest in industry, maintained for last many years is reflective of Bank’s strength. Strong net mark up income was further augmented by enhanced non-mark up income. Trade finance is the bank’s hallmark.

The rating draws comfort from the Bank’s experienced management team, prudent risk management policies and deep-rooted relationship with clients – borrowers as well as depositors. The Bank’s CAR improved to 15.1% as at end Dec-20, providing the Bank with a healthy cushion to expand its advances book. COVID-19 is an ongoing challenge. The proactive measures taken by the regulators and other concerned bodies have mitigated the potential damages anticipated from this pandemic. As a result, the banking industry remained protected and in fact posted record profits. Vigilance is required as variants of the pandemic continue to re-emerge.

The rating is dependent on the Bank’s sustained risk profile. In the wake of heightened competition, profitable growth is a challenge while retaining the relative positioning in the industry. The equity base of the Bank and CAR are satisfactory and may continually be enhanced. The Bank is enhancing its footprints in the broad financial spectrum, which is essential to meet customers’ needs. Digital transformation is very important. BAHL is also into the acquirer business.

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