Fitch assigns Invest Bank inaugural 'BBB+' investment-grade rating with stable outlook

Business

Fitch assigns Invest Bank inaugural 'BBB+' investment-grade rating with stable outlook

Invest Bank has received its inaugural Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of 'BBB+' with a Stable Outlook from Fitch Ratings, marking a significant milestone in the Sharjah-based lender's strategic transformation and strengthening financial position.

The investment-grade rating also includes a Government Support Rating (GSR) of 'bbb+', reflecting Fitch's expectation of government support alongside the bank's improving financial fundamentals.

According to Fitch, the rating is supported by Invest Bank's adequate capitalisation, strong liquidity coverage and improving operating performance. The agency expects the bank to continue executing its transformation strategy while maintaining healthy capital and liquidity buffers.

The rating follows a multi-year transformation programme focused on strengthening the balance sheet, enhancing governance and risk management, improving operational efficiency and positioning the bank for sustainable long-term growth. After undergoing restructuring, Invest Bank returned to profitability in 2025 and has continued to build on that momentum.

Fitch highlighted improvements in the bank's net interest income, adequate reserve coverage, robust capital position and solid liquidity profile. The agency also noted that legacy impaired assets are expected to continue declining over the medium term as the transformation progresses.

While acknowledging that Invest Bank remains a relatively small player in the UAE banking sector and is still in a rebuilding phase, Fitch recognised the progress made in strengthening its financial resilience and long-term strategic execution.

Edris Al Rafi, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Bank, described the investment-grade rating as a defining milestone that validates the bank's transformation efforts, disciplined execution and the continued support of its shareholders.

He said the bank remains focused on strengthening its balance sheet through diversification and digital transformation while creating long-term value for customers, shareholders, employees and the wider community.

Looking ahead, Invest Bank said the rating is expected to enhance its engagement with investors, counterparties and funding markets as it continues to pursue disciplined growth, strengthen customer experience and expand as a technology-driven financial institution.