Robust support of NIB member countries. Strong asset quality. Ample liquidity. Sound financial and risk management. Relatively high leverage and debt ratios. Comparatively high regional concentration of loan portfolio. The ratings on Finland-based Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) reflect the strong membership support granted by the eight member countries and the bank's high asset quality, which has led to historically stable and predictable profitability; although some deterioration was evident in 2008, it recovered robustly in 2009 and 2010. These strengths are offset by the bank's regionally concentrated loan portfolio and high leverage and debt ratios. NIB was founded in 1975, with the aim of strengthening and developing Nordic cooperation and promoting growth in member countries by means of financing long-term projects
