...Standalone Strength Drives IDR: The Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) of Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (BBL) are based on its Viability Rating (VR) and reflect its standalone strength. BBL's VR is driven by its market leadership in the corporate banking, a strong lending and deposit franchise, moderate risk appetite, and substantial buffers against downside risks. Strong Franchise: BBL has long been one of the largest banks in Thailand with an asset market share of 18.0% at end-May 2015. Its strong deposit franchise leads to competitive funding costs. The bank is particularly strong in catering to larger corporates, and its business is supported by being the only Thai bank with a significant international presence. Large Capital Buffer: BBL's capital ratios are among the highest in the sector, and Fitch views capitalisation as a key credit strength. BBL's Core Tier 1 capital ratio was 15.3% at end-March 2015 (sector average:13.7%). Its capitalisation has risen steadily in tandem with...
