Caspian Energy: Which tasks does AccessBank set in the banking market of Azerbaijan and to what degree are they implemented successfully?

Michael Hoffmann, Chairman of the Management Board, AccessBank: Since the day of its foundation the Bank has pursued a clear and targeted strategy aiming at providing financing to Micro, small and medium businesses. This is the cornerstone of our activity, this is what we are good at and what we will adhere to in the future.    

CE: Which institutional projects are underway at the bank?

Michael Hoffmann: We are currently conducting an important project of implementing a modern internet banking system in our Bank. Soon, we will be able offering state-of-the-art internet banking services to our clients.   

Another important area is the further development of our branch network especially in the regions of the country. During the last couple of years we have opened a number of new branches in regional centers such as Ismayilly, Shirvan, Agjabedi, Kurdamir and Masally – just to mention some of the locations where we have recently set up operations. By strengthening our local presence in the regions we will be even closer to our clients and thereby enhance our service quality. 

CE: Does the bank have branch offices beyond Azerbaijan? If not, are there plans to open them in future?

Michael Hoffmann: With regard to activities outside of Azerbaijan it is our partner organization, the Berlin based AccessHolding which is managing an international network of currently 8 banks in different countries and continents as e.g. in Nigeria, Tajikistan and Tanzania – all under the brand of “AccessBank”. All AccessBanks have the same strategic focus on providing financial services to micro and SME businesses. AccessHolding is also the strategic partner of our AccessBank in Azerbaijan and owns a 16.5% stake in the Bank. The German Holding Company has continuously been expanding its international network during the last 10 years and is committed to continue its focused expansion. Currently, the Holding is looking into business opportunities in neighboring Georgia to strengthen the foothold in the Southern Caucasus. 

CE: What makes bank services attractive for clients? 

Michael Hoffmann: We have built up profound expertise during the last 10 years with regard to how to serve best our customers. Most importantly we are running proper analysis of our client’s needs and of their individual business profile to the support them developing and growing their business. The result has been highly satisfying and over the last years the Bank has expanded its activities alongside with the development of our clients’ businesses. The Bank’s outstanding portfolio quality with the sector wide lowest overdue loan ratio shows that our Bankers understand well how to tailor adequate financing packages for our clients which suit best their business needs. Another core strength of our Bank is the high service quality and process efficiency.We are processing and disbursing loans timely so that clients are not distracted and can focus on their business where their presence is needed. This is of particular importance in the regions where many clients are travelling longer distances from the villages to the regional centers. 

CE: Is AccessBank realizing social projects?

Michael Hoffmann: The Bank has continuously been engaged in social projects throughout the entire country with a focus on those locations where we operate. We understand ourselves as part of those local communities and are involved in charitable and community projects that both benefit and promote the evolution of inclusive local communities. To give you an example – currently, we are implementing a project aimed at school children and their families in need of support with school accessories.