Press Release
JCR-VIS assigns ratings to Tameer Microfinance Bank Limited
Karachi, March 26, 2007: JCR-VIS Credit Rating Company Limited has assigned a medium to long-term credit rating of A- (Single A Minus) with a ‘Stable’ outlook and a short-term rating of A-2 (A Two) to Tameer Microfinance Bank Limited.
Ratings take into account the state-of-the-art information and control systems and requisite infrastructure that have been put in place. In our opinion, these have been instrumental in enabling growth as per original plan. Liquidity reserves and capitalization offer sufficient risk mitigation for creditors in the near-term and the bank’s access to long-term lines from multi-lateral bodies also appears strong. However, deposit mobilization will be critical for the long-term sustainability of the bank which requires a strong franchise in the retail market and can impact the bank’s capacity for growth, projected cost parameters as well as liquidity risk profile.
While delinquencies have remained marginal so far, with NPLs being nil at year-end 2006, the portfolio is not yet well-seasoned and quality characteristics of the portfolio will become more definable over time.
Ratings have been significantly supported by documented commitment by shareholders to inject fresh equity if need for it arises in 2007 or at any time thereafter.
For further information on this rating announcement, please contact Mr. Safdar Kazi (Ext: 221) or Ms. Sabeen Saleem (Ext: 222) at 5671822/5671833/5680996 or fax to 5681105/5671600.
Faheem Ahmad
President & CEO