Bangkok Bank eyes growth in loans to SMEs

Expected increase in small-sized loans prompts bank to focus on SME loans in 2010.

Bangkok Bank's executive vice-president Piya Sosothikul said they target loan growth for small and medium-sized firms of 4 percent to 4.5 percent this year, 1.5 times higher than the country's gross domestic product growth target of about 3 percent to 3.5 percent in 2010. Thailand's rebound is forecast to be driven by government spending while private investment is still sluggish.

"As the economic recovery is still fragile, we will support SMEs with lending to help them diversify risks," he said.

BBL, Thailand's largest bank in terms of asset size, is confident of achieving its SME loan growth target. But the bank expects to book a contraction in total loans in line with falling GDP last year. The bank's SME loans represent 35 percent of a portfolio worth 1.04 trillion baht ($31.36 billion).

For 2010, the bank aims to increase total lending by 3 percent to 4 percent, and plans to focus on its three core businesses - SME loans, retail banking and foreign business.

Follow the link for more news on

Also Read

HK mortgage loans in negative equity surpasses 32,000 in March

Higher costs and deteriorating loans slow BRI’s profit growth

Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you dight and create an advertising campaign, in print and digital, on this website and in print magazine.

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

I want to download the media kit