Qatar National Bank QPSC Q1 2020 Earnings Call Transcript

The following is excerpted from the question-and-answer section of the transcript.

Question: Aybek Islamov - HSBC, Research Division - Analyst : While we wait for the question, it's Aybek here on the line. So I think I'll just jump in with the follow-up. Can you comment about your ability to control costs in the current environment? So what could be your cost discipline like in 2020? If you have to cut costs, how far can you cut if you see more revenue pressure down the line? So that will be my first question. And I think second question is how do you see your balance sheet growth outlook. On one hand, there is lending activity. There are off-balance sheet commitments from the clients. All the draft lines of credit that can be utilized. On the other hand, there is government bond issuance. What do you expect on that front? So how do you exhibit your asset growth given these 2 components in 2020?

Question: Aybek Islamov - HSBC, Research Division - Analyst : And in terms of -- so that was your comment about the funding outlook. And what about asset growth outlook? What do you see in terms of loans? Do you think there will be a run for credit lines, credit commitments of balance sheet items given current circumstances in Q1? And secondly, how do you envisage the -- for example, government debt purchases in 2020?

Question: Aybek Islamov - HSBC, Research Division - Analyst : Yes. Well, thank you. I would like to thank QNB Group for hosting this conference call. Thank you for your guidance and insights from the markets. We all appreciate it. And I think on this note, operator, we can close the call.