FLASHNEWS:

PACRA Maintains the Entity Ratings of HBL Microfinance Bank

Lahore, December 28, 2022 (PPI-OT):The ratings assigned to the HBL Microfinance Bank underpin the Bank’s affiliation with Aga Khan Development Network and Habib Bank Limited (HBL) – one of the largest banks in the country. The bank has been able to devise a sound strategy and established a strong footprint over the years. The bank is categorized among top-notch microfinance banks currently. The bank secures a 22.1% market share amongst the microfinance banks as of end-Sep’22 in terms of GLP. The recent growth recorded in the GLP is a result of enhanced outreach secured by the Bank.

The same growth pattern is projected in the future as well; wherein the need to curb infection remains vital. The Bank is the largest provider of Housing Finance in the Microfinance Banking Sector and one of the largest contributors from the microfinance industry in the Government Mark-up Subsidy Scheme (GMSS); as of September 30, 2022, its outstanding portfolio amounted to PKR 6.6bln. During 9MCY22, the bank recorded a sizable improvement in markup income, due to an enhanced portfolio. The sustainability and improvement in fee and commission income have been supplementing the profitability. The bank’s higher provisioning expense in 9MCY22 is attributable to the increased specific provisioning.

However, the net profitability sustained its growth trend. The investment book is vested in government securities which adds to the liquidity side. Funding is majorly fueled through deposits where high contribution arises from the demand deposits. An increase in the equity base provides a cushion in the risk absorption capacity of the bank. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) was recorded at 16.1% as of end-Sep’22. Further, the strengthening of CAR remains vital. The Bank has already initiated the process of issuance of further capital amounting to PKR 1bln by way of the right issue. The additional capital injection will further strengthen the rapid growth potential of the Bank, going forward.

The strengthening of the equity base over the last few years is positive. The industry’s parameters are deteriorating on account of pressured macroeconomic indicators, attributable to the aftermath of the COVID-19 and recent flood situation. The relative impact and aftermath on the risk profiles of industry players have been unfolding in the ongoing months. The upcoming two quarters will remain important for the industry players as to the behaviour of flood-impacted portfolios as well as relevant guidance from the regulators.

The ratings are dependent upon the Bank’s ability to aptly combat the emerging risks under the current scenario to keep its business and financial risk profile intact. Given the strong business acumen of the sponsors, a distinct focus is vested to continue leading the market with good asset quality. Meanwhile, the Bank’s propensity to protect its performance indicators is imperative.

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