EBL retains b2 rating from Moody’s, earns AAA from CRAB

Moody's Investors Service has reaffirmed Eastern Bank PLC's (EBL) B2 rating, which remains constrained by Bangladesh's sovereign rating.

The reaffirmation reflects the Bank's strong capital position, consistent profitability, sound asset quality, and adequate liquidity, underscoring its resilience in a challenging operating environment.

Although Moody's has maintained a negative outlook on long-term deposit and issuer ratings across the country's banking sector, the assessment reflects broader macroeconomic pressures rather than institution-specific weaknesses. EBL continues to stand out as one of the sector's best-performing banks, supported by steady earnings and a disciplined approach to credit risk.

EBL's fundamentals remain robust, backed by solid capital buffers and prudent financial management. These strengths reinforce the Bank's reputation for operational discipline, sound governance, and long-term stability.

Commenting on Moody's reaffirmation, Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director of EBL, said, "This reaffirmation by Moody's is a testament to EBL's unwavering commitment to prudent risk management, operational excellence, and financial discipline."

EBL was the first Bangladeshi bank to be rated by Moody's in March 2016, marking an important step towards global transparency and international benchmarking within the local banking industry.

In addition to Moody's reaffirmation, local credit rating agency CRAB has awarded EBL its highest AAA rating for the third consecutive year in 2025—further validating the Bank's financial strength, governance standards, and disciplined risk culture.