​​Japanese rating agency, JCR-Eurasia Rating assigned a “Long Term National Rating” of high investment grade “A-(Trk)” with a “stable” outlook to Aktif Yatırım Bankası A.Ş. (Aktif Bank).

​​Japanese rating agency, JCR-Eurasia Rating assigned a “Long Term National Rating” of high investment grade “A-(Trk)” with a “stable” outlook to Aktif Yatırım Bankası A.Ş. (Aktif Bank).

Aktif Bank is the 3rd bank after Bank Asya and Garanti Bank in the Turkish Banking sector which is rated investment grade by JCR-Eurasia Rating. There are 21 banks rated investment grade in Turkey.

This credit rating is the first time rating assigned to Aktif Bank.

Aktif Bank initiated a strategic restructuring program in 2007, rebuilding and redesigning its organizational structure, technology, products and services. The Bank has also changed its name to Aktif Bank on 1 August 2008.

In the press release announced by JCR Eurasia Rating, the rapid growth of Aktif Bank as part of its restructuring program, its renewed corporate structure and professional identity have been identified to be instrumental in JCR’s credit rating.

Further, JCR-Eurasia has assigned Akftif Bank Long Term International Foreign and Local Currency Rating of BB-, Short Term International Foreign and Local Currency Rating of B and Short Term National Local Rating of A -1(Trk).

Aktif Bank’s financial strength has been confirmed by the high investment grade A- rating. Aktif Bank has 48 branches in the Balkans through its financial subsidiary. The Bank is aiming to establish a “Direct Banking” model in Turkey while improving its relationships with international financial institutions and investors through its subsidiaries in the neighbouring countries.

Aktif Bank’s General Manager Dr. Önder Halisdemir commented: “This credit rating represents confidence placed in Aktif Bank’s capital structure, renewed corporate structure and professional identity. Aktif Bank has quadrupled its correspondent banking network since the start of its restructuring program and will continue to improve its recognition in the international financial markets.”

About JCR:

JCR (Japan Credit Rating) is one of the largest 4 rating companies in the world. It was established in 1985 in Tokyo and provides its services in more than 70 countries worldwide. JCR’s shareholding consists of more than 100 institutions, mainly banks and financial services companies.