Acquisition International - Worldwide Finance Awards 2022 19 of credit policies, as well as optimization of administrative costs. Total income from banking operations increased to BGN 435 mln (2020: BGN 373,7 mln) with an increase in all main sources of income. The return on equity (after tax) reached 8.85%. This astonishing achievement is a direct result of hard work and effective leadership from the team. 2022 has presented slightly different challenges to 2021, where the global economy was showing that it had the capacity to recover its pre-pandemic momentum. With banking sector revenues almost reaching the record levels of two years ago, the industry as a whole has proven capable of absorbing the complex geopolitical situation of sanctions against Russia. Mr Bakalov’s predictions maintain this positive line, drawing on the way in which the markets are reacting to the events of the day: “My forecast is that lending activity will remain high in terms of demand and supply of loans,” he tells us, “but with a bit added caution given the unusual economic situation. This should logically lead to increased credit risk, which in turn is a component of interest rates on loans. I personally feel optimistic and believe that Bulgaria will quickly overcome the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Whilst Fibank has already established itself as a pioneer of new ideas and bold technologies, we know that all businesses need an effective plan to thrive in the future. To conclude our deepdive into the success of Fibank, we asked Mr Bakalov precisely what he and his team intend to do in the future. “We have the necessary platforms in place that allow us to develop innovative products and services,” he tells us, “and our customers have also proven over time that they are very receptive to innovations that we carefully select and implement in the Bulgarian market. The new trends in the banking sector and the logical consequences of digital transformation in recent years have allowed banks to launch projects that will soon lead to a hundred percent coverage of all banking products and services in the digital environment – and this is certainly the direction we are moving in.” The decision to embrace the digital landscape even further is not surprising at all, but it is not the endpoint of what the team are doing. “We have a wide branch network staffed with well-trained employees,” Mr Bakalov continues. “Unlike fully digital banks, we operate from over 120 branches and offices throughout the country. This is a significant advantage since there, apart from being able to bank in the traditional way, our customers can also receive advice, including on how to more easily and conveniently use their digital banking. Over time, the industry will become increasingly digitized and physical branches will remain as a point of contact and consultation for customers.” The success of Fibank comes from an approach to the banking sector that moves with the times. The team’s attitude is one which is always innovating and constantly looking to the future. The triumph of the team in the Worldwide Finance Awards 2022 is a credit to their tireless efforts. We thank Mr Bakalov for updating us on Fibank and its enviable success, as well as looking forward to seeing what the team do next. Company: First Investment Bank Name: Nikola Bakalov, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the Managing Board Web Address: www.fibank.bg Address: Sofia, bul.” Tsarigradsko shose” 111P
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