PACRA Maintains Entity Rating of Alfalah Securities (Pvt) Limited

The Entity Rating of Alfalah Securities (Private) Limited captures its emerging position in the country’s brokerage industry. The company is a subsidiary of Bank Alfalah Limited and four senior management personnel of the bank are on the board of the company. This is underpinned by its adequate governance, good risk management framework, hierarchical organizational structure and strong control environment. The rating further draws comfort from the company’s policy for not taking market exposure for proprietary trades.

The Company has zero leveraged capital structure and adequate capitalization levels. The management team, experienced in respective functions has prepared a comprehensive business plan approved by the board. The company successfully improved its brokerage revenue in CY17. In addition to its brokerage business, the company enjoys distinct position in investment banking and advisory domain. The management has effectively integrated the investment banking function with an independent advisory board to provide competitive advantage. Enhancement in investment banking income would further add diversity and support to the brokerage business. The foreign market share has been enhancing due to the emplacement of foreign brokers on its board.

The rating is dependent on the ability of the company to sustain profits and strengthen its emerging position in the brokerage industry. Stability of the key human resource and consistent profits will bode well for the company.

About the Entity
Alfalah Securities (Private) Limited is a financial services company, licensed as securities broker under Securities Brokers (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016. The company is engaged in equity trading. Company also provides investment banking & advisory services. Alfalah Securities operates from Head office based in Karachi, Pakistan.

It is a subsidiary of Bank Alfalah Limited. Bank Alfalah owns ~98% stake in Alfalah Securities and the bank is ultimately majority owned by Abu Dhabi group. Bank is divesting its 30% stake in the company that is expected to be acquired by seasoned professionals, including CEO Mr. Atif Mohammad Khan.

Company’s board constitute of five members including CEO Mr. Atif Mohammad Khan. All directors, other than CEO, are non-executive. Board meets every quarter to review the overall performance. Board has comprehensive discussion on strategy and business plan.