Strong market position and franchise value in retail banking, particularly in credits cards. Consistent high profitability, with an ROA of more than 3.6% in recent years. Limited degree of financial support from General Electric Capital Corp. (GECC) in the unlikely event this is required. Businesses are held in a region of small, relatively low-diversified economies. Modest growth prospects for the main countries in Central America. Despite good reported asset quality, there are some risks stemming from the loan portfolio: devaluation risk in Costa Rica and increased exposure to Honduras. The ratings on BAC International Bank Inc. (BIB) are based on those on its main subsidiary, Credomatic International Corp. (CIC), which accounts for most of its assets, loan portfolio, and profits.
