21/04/13 | International Islamic posts QR185.3mn Q1 net profit

Sheikh Dr Khalid said the bank's net profit reached QR 185.3 million in the first quarter of 2013, which shows an increase of 5.6% compared with the corresponding period in 2012.

The results attest the fact that International Islamic improved its position, both in the local market and abroad. The bank has gained significantly from the Qatari economy, which is on an upswing thanks to the wise leadership and policies being pursued by HH the Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and HH the Heir Apparent, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.

Sheikh Dr Khalid said many opportunities exist in the local market in view of the huge projects being taken up by Qatar. International Islamic is working towards participation in financing these projects, whether they are in construction or those that pertain to the small and medium enterprises (SME) segment.

He said the executive management of the bank worked relentlessly to implement the strategy adopted for International Islamic, which is reflected in the first quarter's results.

This will benefit shareholders and customers alike.

The staff members also deserved praise as they worked as one team.

International Islamic CEO Mr Abdulbasit A.al-Shaibei said, International Islamic's total revenue reached QR 336 millionin the first quarter of this year compared with QR 307 million in the same period in 2012. This shows an increase of 9.4%

The bank's total assets stood at QR 29.3 billion in Q1 compared with QR 23.3 billion in the same period last year.

The financing portfolio reached QR 15.6 billion in the first quarter as opposed to QR 10.5 billion in Q1, 2012.

Deposits totaled QR 20.4 billion in the first quarter of this year, which shows an increase of 20% compared with the same period last year.

The capital adequacy ratio under Basel II stood at 18.7% . This indicates the prudent policies pursued by the bank in terms of risk management.

Mr Al-Shaibei said the results indicated that the bank would be able to maintain stable performance in the upcoming period.

"We are optimistic about the future. All indicators point to the fact that Qatar's economy will maintain its current growth trajectory. The local economic growth will provide adequate opportunities for us, Mr Al-Shaibei said.

He said the bank would stay focused on providing financing for all projects. The bank is committed to Qatar.

"We will always support our economy. We want to participate in all sectoral developments, Mr Al-Shaibei said.

Referring to the budget for the fiscal 2013 / 14, which were presented recently, he said it is the largest so far. A huge outlay has been provided for various big projects and all sectors.

All businesses and financing activities will get a boost on account of this.

"We hope the budget will remain the catalyst for further growth in all spheres, al-Shaibei said.

He said the bank would continue to provide best products and services to its customers.

A lot of focus is on the local market. A few more branches will be opened across the country this year. 

More ATMs will also be set up at places that suit customers.

The bank will also continue to develop its electronic channels - both for its corporate and retail customers.

In terms of human resources, Mr Al-Shaibei said the bank had a "special participation in this year's Qatar Career Fair. The bank was a gold sponsor of the event.

The event was very important for International Islamic in that it is committed to identify, train and place Qataris in suitable positions within the bank cadre.

"This year we received a lot of CVs from promising young Qataris, both male and female. We has conducted interviews with them, and going to provide good training and placement within International Islamic.

International Islamic will also pursue its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives rigorously and support all local activities that contribute to nation building - be it in education, culture, health or sports.

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