- Japan Credit Rating Agency affirms Afreximbank’s A- issuer rating with stable outlook
- Strong fundamentals and Samurai bond success strengthen bank’s role in global markets
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has had its A- issuer credit rating affirmed with a stable outlook by the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR), underscoring its growing credibility in international capital markets.
The rating reflects Afreximbank’s strong strategic positioning, sound risk management framework, consistent profitability, prudent liquidity policies and resilient capital base. JCR also highlighted the Bank’s key role in supporting trade finance and economic development across Africa and the Caribbean.
JCR said it expects the rating to remain stable over the next 12 to 18 months despite external macroeconomic challenges and pressures in Afreximbank’s operating environment.
“This rating underscores our strong fundamentals and prudent risk management practices,” said Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President in a press statement.
“It strengthens our ability to diversify our funding sources, including tapping into Japan’s capital markets, to further advance our mandate of promoting and financing intra- and extra-African trade.”
Denya reaffirmed Afreximbank’s commitment to its member states, partners and clients, stressing that its consistent delivery in challenging conditions has reinforced its standing.
“This rating is a testament to the Bank’s resilience and strategic focus, enabling us to mobilise resources to drive trade and development in Africa and the Caribbean,” he added.
Expanding global reach
The JCR affirmation is expected to boost investor confidence and support Afreximbank’s efforts to expand its funding base. The Bank has already signalled its appeal in Japanese markets with its inaugural Samurai bond issuance in 2024, which raised JPY 81.3 billion ($530 million).
The issue attracted strong interest from a diverse pool of Japanese institutional investors, highlighting Afreximbank’s ability to mobilise resources beyond traditional geographies and further demonstrating its credibility in global markets.
