Fitch Ratings has revised the Outlook on Ameriabank's Long-term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to Stable from Negative, while affirming the IDR at 'B+'. Given bank’s standalone strength, the Viability Rating stands at ‘b+’, aligned with Long Term IDR - thus the rating does not incorporate any support either from ultimate shareholder or the government.

The affirmation of the rating reflects reasonable financial metrics, sizeable liquidity cushion, manageable refinancing risks and solid domestic franchise. Despite the high competition in the banking industry of Armenia, Ameriabank gained a strong foothold in the market by maintaining its leading position in lending (15% market share), trade finance and liabilities to customers (15%).

The revision of the Outlook on Ameria's ratings to Stable reflects Fitch's expectation that the bank is likely to remain resilient to pressures from the difficult operating environment. The bank also has a strong ability to absorb impairment through earnings and improved capital buffer following the USD40 million equity injection by European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in December 2015.