The Banking Executive Magazine - January 2022 Issue

NBK resources and in our digital agenda to secure future growth,” he noted. Al-Sayer added: “The bank enjoys a solid financial position alongside a strong and stable capital base; which supports our ability in meeting the growing needs of clients. Throughout the year, the Bank invested heavily in its strategic digital infrastructure in order to position NBK to grow and prosper over the long term.” “Despite the continued state of un- certainty stemming from the reper- cussions of the pandemic, the Bank maintained its commitment towards rewarding and adding value to share- holders through strong cash divi- dends and bonus shares distributions,” he elaborated. ”The operational environment in Kuwait is promising in 2022 and we are optimistic with regards to the op- portunities embedded; in light of the high vaccination rates which would eventually enhance business senti- ment and contribute positively to economic growth alongside the sup- port to the state’s fiscal standing from the recovery in oil prices,” he men- tioned. “We take pride in the progress that we achieved in implementing the highest standards of corporate gover- nance whilst embedding sustainabil- ity as an integral part of our corporate culture and operations. Furthermore, we will continue our promises in achieving responsible and sustainable growth and to shar- ing our successes with the commu- nities in which we operate,” Al-Sayer stated. Al-Sayer affirmed that: “NBK will continue in its responsible role in supporting the global objective of low-carbon emissions and mitigating the risks of climate change whilst de- livering strides across other sustain- ability initiatives. In this regard, we have set specific goals for sustainable business, and are keen on embed- ding climate-related considerations as part of our business model in the future.” “We will continue to place consider- able value on the health and safety of our employees and customers while ensuring the delivery of world class products and highest service quality. Moreover, the Bank will re- main committed into supporting and contributing to the recovery of Kuwait’s economy,” he concluded. On his part,NBK Group Chief Exec- utive Officer, Issam J. Al Sager,com- mented: “Despite the resurgence of Covid-19 cases and the uncertainty around economic outlook during 2021, NBK succeeded in recording solid profits and exceeded strategic targets set for the year. The operating environment in Kuwait witnessed a moderate re- bound that was characterized by higher consumer spending, improve- ment in business activity and vol- umes as well as gradual recovery in the BANKING EXECUTIVE 24 ISSUE 157 JANUARY 2022