Honduran Banks Profits Down

Honduran Private banks ended the third quarter of 2009 with a decrease of 227.8 million Lempiras in profits over the same period last year.

According to preliminary figures from the National Commission of Banks and Insurance (CNBS), profits fell equivalent to a percentage drop of 9.3%. This was explained by a decrease in the loan portfolio and investments. However, banks have been reporting an increase in the lending interest rate-loans.

The financial system has been one of the areas most affected by the global economic crisis, with credit lines suspended.

Loans

The Central Bank of Honduras, through the Monthly Economic Activity Index (IMAE) reveals that the financial inter-mediation activity from January to September 2009, measured by the flow of new loans granted to the private sector, decreased 2.4%, due to the lower placement of loans to trade, services and real estate.

This behavior is contrary to an increase of 19.9% in 2008. The structure of credit granted shows that 39.9% was spent on consumption, trade 17.8%, industry 15.1%, 11.9% in real estate, services 9.7%, 5.5% agriculture and 0.1% for other activities.

Ranking

Of the 17 financial institutions authorized to operate in the Honduran market, Banco Atlantida has the strongest gains recorded in the third quarter of 2009 with 418.3 million lempiras, equivalent to 24.8% of total profits. Ficohsa follows with 313 million Lempiras, Banpais with 309.3 million, Occidente with 284.7 million, and BAC-Bamer, with 208.7 million lempiras.

In total, five licensed financial institutions accumulate 1.534 million lempiras, equivalent to 91% of total profits for the period from January to September of 2009.


You must be logged in to post a comment Login