Doha, 9th February 2014 - QNB Group, The World’s Strongest Bank, has consolidated its position as The MENA Region’s most valuable Brand according to The Annual Survey carried out by “Brand Finance” and published by “The Banker” Magazine, an affiliate to the international acclaimed “Financial Times” newspaper.
As the leading Financial Institution in The Region, QNB Group achieved an increase in the value of its brand by US$ 500million to US$1.81 billion. This represents a 38% increase on the 2012 levels achieved and importantly saw QNB rise to 101st globally in the rankings of the World’s top 500 Banking Brands. This improvement of 19 places is testament to the continuing robust financial performance and successful international expansion of a brand that is now operating across 26 countries worldwide.
Commenting on the achievement, Yousef Darwish (General Manager, QNB Group Communications) said:
“This is a notable achievement for The QNB Group and continues the impressive momentum delivered over recent years.
The importance of our brand and how it is perceived by our diverse range of stakeholders is paramount across our 26 countries of operation. The Annual Brand Finance Survey confirms that we are making good progress and continue to be the best brand value across The MENA Region. Looking to the future, The QNB Group vision is to be a MEA (Middle East and Africa) icon by 2017”.
Stringent judging criteria is used by Brand Finance in the value assessment process of Banking Brands. The factors considered include: size of operation, geographical presence, global and regional reputation and brand classification. On the latter point, QNB Group maintained its AA brand rating for 2013 and this classification is based on the health and future growth potential of the brand based on the criteria deployed.
The prestigious recognition of being the premium brand in The Middle East by value builds upon other achievements secured by QNB over the past 12 months.
Global Finance Magazine recognized QNB as being amongst the “Safest 50 Banks in Emerging Markets”, The Banker Magazine bestowed “The Best Bank in The Middle East 2013” accolade and Bloomberg Markets confirmed QNB as ‘The World’s Strongest Bank” throughout 2013.
The various recognitions and Awards are underpinned by a strong and robust Financial Performance that saw Net