Friday, 2 October 2015

Fitch rates HNB Grameen Finance at 'A(lka)'

Fitch Ratings has assigned HNB Grameen Finance Limited (HGL) a national long-term rating of 'A(lka)' with a stable outlook.

HGL's rating reflects Fitch's expectation of support from its parent, Hatton National Bank. AA-(lka)/Stable.

This view is based on HNB's majority shareholding (51%), its involvement in the strategic direction of HGL through board representation, and the common HNB brand.

The two-notch differential reflects HGL's limited role in the group. HGL is mainly engaged in the provision of micro finance, which is not a significant product for HNB as it accounted for 2.7% of the bank's loan book at end-June 2015. Furthermore, there is limited operational and management integration of the entities.

HNB acquired 51% of HGL in November 2014 as part of a financial-sector consolidation programme. The bank rebranded the finance company and now has four seats on HGL's board, including the chairmanship.
www.dailynews.lk

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