Global Credit Ratings (GCR) has affirmed African Export-Import Bank’s (Afreximbank) international scale long-term and short-term issuer ratings at A and A2, respectively, while revising the outlook to ‘Rating Watch Evolving’ from ‘Stable’.
The affirmation reflects GCR’s assessment of Afreximbank’s strong counter-cyclical mandate, its exceptional track record, sound capitalisation, resilient profitability, diversified funding profile, and prudent liquidity management.
The bank’s very diverse shareholder base was also noted, although its exposure to high-risk operating environments and potential soft market confidence were highlighted as constraints.
The revised outlook signals how evolving economic conditions, regional market developments, and the broader credit climate could influence the Bank’s future ratings.
GCR also observed that Afreximbank’s preferential treatment remains strong, demonstrated by priority repayments even during sovereign distress.
The Rating Watch Evolving reflects emerging downside risks linked to sovereign debt restructurings and uncertainties surrounding the enforceability of the G20 Common Framework’s preferred creditor status (PCS).
Mr. Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, said, “The affirmation of our ‘A’ rating reinforces the Bank’s financial strength and the confidence of the market in our strategic relevance to Africa’s trade and development agenda.
It further highlights the dynamic environment in which we operate and underscores the importance of maintaining disciplined risk management and balance sheet strength while continuing to deliver transformative impact across the continent.”
The rating action comes as Afreximbank continues to solidify its position as one of Africa’s most strategically significant financial institutions.
The Bank’s total assets and contingencies have surpassed US$40.1 billion, enhancing its capacity to support large-scale trade and infrastructure projects critical to the continent’s industrialisation and economic integration.
With shareholder funds exceeding US$7.2 billion, Afreximbank has strengthened its resilience to market volatility and reinforced its credit standing in an increasingly complex global financial environment.
Afreximbank’s combination of robust financial metrics, strategic positioning within Africa’s evolving trade landscape, and its role in developing critical financial infrastructure underscores its role as a cornerstone of the continent’s economic development agenda.
As regional integration accelerates and trade patterns continue to evolve, the Bank’s comprehensive approach to financing, infrastructure development, and policy support demonstrates its commitment to facilitating Africa’s integration into global markets while strengthening intra-continental economic ties.