Global Markets. What are the main directions, strengths and competitive advantages of Ameriabank?
- The basis of Ameriabank's success is not only realizing the need for changes, but also assuming a leadership role in the path of these changes and transformation. This is what helped us successfully overcome back in 2008. the global financial crisis. That's how we transformed from a leading corporate and investment bank to a leading universal bank in Armenia. And that's the reason why we consistently strive for digital transformation, thanks to the investments made in this direction, we were able to face the challenges we all faced last year. Ameriabank believes in the potential and future of Armenia's economy.
Since 2008, we have played a huge role in strengthening the companies operating in Armenia and the economy of our country. Ameriabank is the largest financial institution in Armenia, which constantly strives to offer its customers and partners the best banking services and products, to come up with new and modern solutions. Our growth and development have always been based not on short-term interests, but on long-term vision, strategy and a number of key goals. I would also like to emphasize that our success has been facilitated by the trust of our customers, partners and shareholders in us and the long-term relationship we have with them. They have inspired us to develop dynamically and transform from a traditional bank to a fintech ecosystem based on human needs.
Global Markets. What are the main achievements and successful projects recorded by the bank during the last 12 months?
- Although the world economy faced significant difficulties and challenges during the past year, we were able to operate efficiently and provide positive results. 2021 according to the results of the first quarter, Ameriabank maintained its leading position in the RA banking system according to the main banking indicators (assets, liabilities, loans, deposits, profit and equity capital). At the end of the first quarter, the bank's return on assets and equity were 1.5% and 14.2%, respectively. We also occupy a leading position in the RA corporate bond market, where the bank's share is 26%. In line with our strategy of transitioning to a universal bank model, the bank has increased the share of retail and SME loans. In addition, we have made significant progress in the field of remote and digital banking services, as a result of which the Internet banking usage rate in 2020 made 48% (an increase of 12 percentage points).
Global Markets. This year, Ameriabank entered the "green" bond market for the first time. What plans does the bank have for the further development of the green financing sector in Armenia?
- First of all, I should mention that the issuance of the first green bonds in Armenia was one of the important achievements of the bank. The total volume of the issue was 42 million Euros. The bonds were issued jointly with our long-time partner, the Netherlands Development Bank (FMO). Sustainalytics provided a second-party opinion on Ameriabank's green bond system, confirming its compliance with international principles and global market standards. Funds raised through green bonds provide an unprecedented opportunity to finance projects that promote environmental sustainability. As for our future actions in this direction, I should mention that we intend to become the leading green bank in Armenia and expect even deeper cooperation with our partners.
Global Markets. Which digital technologies does Ameriabank consider the most promising? What are the main priorities of Ameriabank in 2021? for and future strategic goals.
- In order to succeed, any bank must adapt to rapidly changing conditions. Our priorities this year are further digital transformation and diversification. Accordingly, we are consistently expanding the capabilities of providing remote banking services, improving the quality of digital services, increasing the share of retail and SME loans, while aiming to ensure double-digit growth of the loan portfolio. It will help us to achieve our strategic goals, that is, increasing efficiency, further growth of key financial indicators, ensuring a high level of satisfaction of our clients, partners, teammates and shareholders, as well as maintaining an absolute leadership position in the financial market of Armenia.
Global Markets. In a series of recent interviews, your international partners have indicated that Ameriabank is ready for an Initial Public Offering (IPO). What plans does Ameriabank have in that direction?
- In the last few years, we have become the largest bank in the country and have ensured the highest level of cooperation with international partners. In addition, we are continuously improving our corporate governance system. The IPO will be a very important strategic achievement for us and will contribute to the realization of our long-term development plans. Being a public company also means that we must follow best practices in corporate governance, accountability and transparency. I am proud to note that we are already operating as a public company, being one of the unique companies in Armenia whose corporate management system meets the prerequisites for an IPO. We constantly monitor international capital markets, listed companies with similar activities and set benchmarks for a successful IPO. I should also mention that the process of primary public placement of the bank's shares will start after the realization of our medium-term goals. Timing will also depend on market conditions. I would also like to note that all our steps aimed at our growth and development have one goal: to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life. The key to our success is a constantly transforming mindset and confidence in the potential of our company, our country and the economy in which we live and work.