/KASE, December 13, 2024/ – Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC (KASE ticker –
HSBK) has informed about the following:
quote
S&P Global Ratings ("S&P") on December 12, 2024, raised the long- and short-
term issuer credit ratings for Halyk Bank to 'BBB-/A-3' from 'BB+/B', and
national scale rating to 'kzAAA' from 'kzAA+' following a change in the anchor
for Kazakh banks. The new ratings mark historic highs for Halyk and are on par
with Kazakhstan's sovereign ratings. S&P said the ratings outlook is stable.
Halyk Bank CEO Umut Shayakhmetova commented: "This ratings action marks a
significant milestone for Halyk Bank as we become the first and only bank in
Kazakhstan to receive an investment-grade rating from S&P and from all three
major credit rating agencies. We view this achievement as recognition of our
strong financial position, prudent risk management, and commitment to delivering
sustainable growth for our stakeholders. It is also affirmation of the trust and
confidence the market places in Halyk Bank."
S&P continues to see Halyk's business position as strong, reflecting the Bank's
leading market share in Kazakhstan, sound business diversification, and
experienced management with a proven over-the-cycle track record of sound
financial performance, supported by a lower cost of funds than that of many of
its peers.
The rating agency highlighted the Bank's adequate capitalization, supported by
good earnings and a balanced dividend policy, as well as its adequate and
balanced risk profile, with the share of loans classified as Stage 3 having
gradually decreased to 6.9% as of September 30, 2024, from 12.3% at year-end
2020.
unquote
The full version of the press release in Russian –
https://kase.kz/files/emitters/HSBK/hsbk_relizs_121224_1.pdf;
The full version of the press release in English –
https://kase.kz/files/emitters/HSBK/hsbk_relizs_121224_en.pdf
[2024-12-13]