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Commercial Bank of Qatar

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FY2020 Annual Report · Commercial Bank of Qatar
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45 years old
45 times stronger

Annual Report 2020

His Highness
Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani
Amir of the State of Qatar

His Highness
Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani 
Father Amir

Contents

About Commercial Bank
Business at a glance 
Forward looking statements 
Financial highlights 
Key highlights 
Chairman’s message 
Board of Directors 
Vice Chairman’s message 
Group Chief Executive Officer’s message 
Management review of operations 
Annual Corporate Governance Report 2019 
Independent Auditors’ Report 
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 
Consolidated Income Statement 
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
Supplementary Information 

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12
16
20
21
24
26 
30
32
36
60
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69
70
71
72
76
78
171

4

Rising up to the Challenge

Commercial Bank acted quickly and 
decisively to the challenge of COVID-19, 
remaining fully operational and enabling 
our customers to bank safely, simply and 
securely under pandemic conditions. 
Our innovative, digitally-driven response 
reflects a strong continuing focus on the 
Five Cs we implemented in 2016: 
•  Corporate Earnings Quality
•  Client Experience 
•  Creativity and Innovation 
•  Culture
•  Compliance

Commercial Bank’s technological and 
service innovations have always been 
driven by human values and customer 
need. We continued to demonstrate 
our leadership in digital banking during 
the pandemic and we are proud to have 
helped make everyday life safer and easier 
for our customers. 
In 2020, Commercial Bank celebrated 
its 45th anniversary and by working 
collaboratively together as ‘One Bank, 
One Team’, we have shown that anything 
is possible even in the most challenging of 
times.

5

6

45 Years of Success and Innovation 

It all started 45 years ago. In 1975, Commercial 
Bank was founded as a designated ‘Bank 
of Account’, providing valuable support as 
Qatar’s first private sector bank.

Ever since, we have evolved into one of 
Qatar’s most successful banks. We have 
introduced new services and product 
offerings to Qatar, continued to expand our 
local, regional and international footprint, 
innovated and integrated cutting-edge 
technologies into our systems, and built our 
brand and client service as leaders in the 
banking market in Qatar.

Throughout this fascinating history, we have 
maintained and upheld our identity as a Qatari 
bank. Commercial Bank has contributed 
in several aspects to the prosperity and 
development of the State of Qatar, by 
introducing brand-new facilities and  
solutions to the local market, hiring and 
investing in talented locals and expatriates, 
as well as supporting the country’s national 
vision and goals. We have been together 
through it all; we have faced challenges and 
risen above them. Whether social, political 
or economic, together as One Bank we have 
continued to progress.

7

It all started 45 years ago.
Ever since, we have evolved 
into Qatar’s most successful, 
innovative, and
digitally-driven bank. 

8

9

About Commercial Bank

Incorporated in 1974 as the first private bank in 
the country, Commercial Bank is today one of 
the leading financial institutions in Qatar with 
a profitable track record since inception. We 
continue to play an important role in driving 
innovation and raising service standards 
in banking across the region through our 
investment in new technology, a clear focus on 
customers and prudent management.
Our country-wide network includes 28 full-
service branches and 172 ATMs, and we also own 
and operate the exclusive ‘Diners Club’ franchise 
in Qatar and Turkey. We are listed on the Qatar 
Exchange and were the first Qatari bank to list its 
Global Depository Receipts on the London Stock 
Exchange. Commercial Bank’s bonds issuances 
are listed on the Irish Stock Exchange and the 
Swiss Exchange (SIX).
Expanding its geographical footprint, 
Commercial Bank is 100% owner of Alternatif 
Bank in Turkey and has strategic partnerships 
with the National Bank of Oman (S.A.O.G.) and 
United Arab Bank (P.J.S.C.).
These strategic alliances enable Commercial 
Bank to offer integrated services across the 
region, including cross-border services for 
corporate banking and capital markets, trade 
services for corporate banking customers, 
private banking services and syndicated loans in 
our alliance markets.

Our continual investment in technology and 
people, together with our strong capital base, 
provides a solid foundation for further growth. 
Commercial Bank has a robust financial position, 
with total assets of QAR 153.6 billion as at 31 
December 2020 and a capital adequacy ratio 
of 17.8%. The Bank enjoys strong credit ratings 
of (A3) from Moody’s, (A) from Fitch, and (BBB+) 
from Standard & Poor’s.
True to our pioneering origins and history of 
success, we are dedicated to supporting Qatar’s 
economic development and social infrastructure 
through Corporate Social Responsibility 
programmes and sponsorship of various events 
which help to raise Qatar’s profile internationally.
Our business segments
Wholesale Banking Provides a range of 
conventional commercial and investment 
banking services and products to large, medium 
and small enterprises, including corporate 
lending, trade finance, syndicated loans, 
deposits, letter of credit and guarantees.
Retail Banking Provides a full suite of 
conventional retail banking services and 
products to retail customers in Qatar, 
including current and deposit accounts, wealth 
management, mortgage lending, personal and 
vehicle loans and credit card and other card 
services.

10

CB Real Estate Properties L.L.C. A fully owned 
subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the Qatar 
Financial Centre Authority providing the Bank 
with advisory services in relation to property.
CB Leasing Company L.L.C. A fully owned 
subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the 
Qatar Financial Centre Authority that leases and 
subleases properties in Qatar.

Associates
National Bank of Oman (S.A.O.G.) An 
associate entity that operates through 60 
conventional branches and 6 Islamic branches in 
Oman, and one branch each in Egypt, Abu Dhabi 
and Dubai.
United Arab Bank (P.J.S.C.) An associate entity 
that operates through 7 conventional branches 
in the United Arab Emirates.
Massoun Insurance Services L.L.C. A joint 
arrangement entity that provides tailored 
corporate and personal insurance products to 
the Bank’s customers.

Subsidiaries
Alternatif Bank A fully owned subsidiary in 
Turkey that operates through a network of 44 
branches.
Commercial Bank Financial Services LLC 
A fully owned subsidiary that provides direct 
access to the Qatar Exchange, online trading and 
brokerage services.
Orient 1 Limited A fully owned subsidiary 
incorporated in Bermuda that owns an exclusive 
‘Diners Club’ franchise in Turkey.
CBQ Finance Limited A fully owned subsidiary 
incorporated in Bermuda and organised as 
a special purpose entity established to raise 
capital for Commercial Bank by issue of debt 
instruments.
CB Global Trading Limited A fully owned 
subsidiary incorporated in Cayman Islands, an 
issuing vehicle for derivatives.
CB Innovation Services L.L.C. A fully owned 
subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the Qatar 
Financial Centre Authority providing the Bank with 
Operations management services.
CB Asset Management L.L.C. A fully owned 
subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the Qatar 
Financial Centre Authority established to provide 
asset management services.

11

Business at a Glance

Our voyages 
1974  Commercial Bank is incorporated as Qatar’s first 

private sector bank

1975  The Bank begins operations under a 

management services contract with Chase 
Manhattan Bank

1981  The contract with Chase Manhattan Bank 

officially ends and Commercial Bank is fully 
independent

1987  A new Commercial Bank 1987 head office opens 

on Grand Hamad Street

1990  ATMs are introduced in Qatar by Commercial 

Bank

1991  Commercial Bank acquires the Diners Club 

franchise for Qatar

1992  Point-of-sale machines are introduced in Qatar 

by Commercial Bank

1997  A dedicated Customer Call Centre is established
2005  Commercial Bank forms a strategic alliance with 

National Bank of Oman

2006  Commercial Bank signs an agreement to 

become the Title Sponsor for the Qatar Masters 
Golf Tournament

2008  First Qatari bank to list GDRs on the London 

Stock Exchange

2009  Commercial Bank Plaza, the new headquarters 
of Commercial Bank, is opened on 13 May 2009 
by H E Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al-
Thani, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign 
Affairs of Qatar
Incorporates Commercial Bank Investment 
Services (re-branded to become Commercial 
Bank Financial Services)

2011 

12

2013  Commercial Bank acquires 74.24% shareholding 

in Alternatif Bank in Turkey
2015  Commercial Bank celebrates its 40th 

anniversary milestone as Qatar’s first private 
bank

2016  Commercial Bank signs a debut USD 166 million 

3-year Ninja loan facility – the first Ninja loan 
for a GCC financial institution Commercial Bank 
successfully completes the acquisition of the 
remaining 25% shareholding in Alternatif Bank
2017  Commercial Bank incorporates CB Innovation 

Services LLC, a management operation services 
captive entity that has successfully on-shored 
previously outsourced activities

2018  Commercial Bank receives ‘Best Bank in Qatar’ 
award from Global Finance, ‘Best Remittance 
Service’ and ‘Best Cash Management Bank’ in 
the Middle East from The Asian Banker

2019  Commercial Bank embraces a new era of 

digitization by launching ‘CB Fawri’, ‘CB Wallet’, 
and ‘SWIFT GPI’. Commercial Bank successfully 
upgrades its Mobile App and widens its digital 
infrastructure 

2020  Commercial Bank launches a number of digital 

firsts such as CB Household Worker PayCard; CB 
Smart Payroll; CB Pay; and CB Pay for Merchants. 
The Bank also receives more than 12 prestigious 
awards from international and regional awarding 
bodies and shines in innovation and digital 
banking

13

14

Throughout our history, 
we have maintained and 
upheld our identity as a 
Qatari Bank. 

15

Forward Looking  
Statements

Net  
Profit
QAR 1,301 million

Earnings  
per Share
QAR 0.27

 Loans and  
Advances
QAR 96.7 bn

Customer  
Deposits
QAR 75.8 bn

Total  
Assets
QAR 153.6 bn

This document contains certain forward-looking 
statements with respect to certain plans and current 
goals and expectations of Commercial Bank and its 
associated companies relating to their future financial 
condition and performance. 
These forward-looking statements do not relate only 
to historical or current facts. By their nature forward-
looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because 
they relate to future events and circumstances including 
a number of factors which are beyond Commercial 
Bank’s control. 
As a result, Commercial Bank’s actual future results may 
differ materially from the plans, goals and expectations 
set forth in Commercial Bank’s forward-looking 
statements. 

Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf 
of Commercial Bank are made in the context of the time 
of publication of this report. Commercial Bank does 
not undertake to update forward looking statements to 
reflect any changes in Commercial Bank’s expectations 
with regard to any changes in events, conditions or 
circumstances on which any such statement is based. 
The information, statements and opinions contained 
in this presentation do not constitute a public offer 
under any applicable legislation, or an offer to sell or 
solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or financial 
instruments or any advice, or recommendation with 
respect to such securities or other financial instruments.

NET PROFIT (QAR MILLION)

1,301

16

Investment &  
Dividend Income

Foreign Exchange  
Income

Other Income

-1%

2%

7%

Net Fee 
Income

19%

Net Interest  
Income

73%

Net Operating  
Income

17

Other Liabilities

Due to Banks and  
Financial Institutions

6%

13%

49%

Customer 
Deposits

Shareholders’ 
Funds

14%

Funding  
Mix

18%

Other Borrowed 
Funds

Other Reserves

Retained Earnings

Risk Reserve

3%

7%

45%

9%

Legal  
Reserve

Additional  
Tier 1 Note

18%

Shareholders’  
Equity

18%

Share Capital

18

Contracting

Personal

Other

4% 3%

7%

Services*

25%

Industry

9%

Commercial

14%

Loans &  
Advances

17%

Government

*includes Non-banking financial institutions

21%

Real Estate

Other Assets

Liquid Assets

12%

Investments 
Securities

17%

Investments in 
Associates

6% 2%

Total  
Assets

Loans & Advances

63%

19

Financial Highlights

In QAR million, except per share 
amounts and as stated otherwise

Net interest income

Net operating income

Net profit

Total assets

Lending to customers

Basic/diluted earnings per share in QAR*

Dividends declared per ordinary share 
including bonus shares in QAR*

Closing market price per ordinary share 
in QAR (at year end)*

Book value per ordinary share in QAR*

Long-term debt (at year end)

Shareholders’ equity (at year end)

Return on average shareholders’ equity

Return on average assets

Capital adequacy ratio

Full-time employees (at year end)

2020

3,100

4,237

1,301

153,606

96,698

0.27

0.10

4.40

5.48

27,233

22,170

5.9%

0.9%

17.8%

2,304

2019

2,963

4,347

2,021

147,536

88,009

0.44

0.20

4.70

5.38

21,568

21,756

9.7%

1.4%

16.4%

2,320

2018

2,482

3,508

1,674

134,928

84,642

0.35

0.15

3.94

4.91

24,451

19,856

8.2%

1.2%

15.5%

2,270

2017

2,518

3,529

604

2016

2,341

3,578 

501 

138,449

130,380 

89,122

0.09

0.10

2.89

5.19

20,908

21,022

3.0%

0.5%

16.1%

2,251

77,798 

0.08

0.05

3.25 

5.91 

22,495 

19,301 

2.7%

0.4%

15.2%

2,138 

* 2016-2018 restated to reflect share split from QAR 10 to QAR 1 as per QFMA regulations

20

Key Highlights

 35.6%

NET PROFIT OF  
QAR 1,301.2 MILLION,  
DOWN BY 35.6%

 2.5%

OPERATING INCOME OF 
QAR 4,237.1 MILLION, DOWN BY 2.5% 
(however, up by 9.9% on normalized basis)

Other key financial highlights 

•  Operating profit of QAR 3,140.8 million, up by 

0.7% (+14.1% on normalized basis).

had one of the lowest prices by a Qatari FI 
issuer on a public transaction.

•  Cost to income ratio of 25.9% (normalized 
26.0%), reduced from 28.3% (normalized 
28.7%). 

•  Strong capital adequacy ratio of 17.8% 

compared to 16.4% in 2019.

•  Gross loan provisions of QAR 1,236.4 million, 
up by 51.6% primarily due to COVID-19 
related model increases in ECL. This was 
offset by recoveries resulting in net provisions 
on loans and advances to customers at QAR 
836.4 million, up by 40.7%. 

•  Total assets of QAR 153.6 billion, up by 4.1%. 
•  Customer loans and advances of QAR 96.7 

billion, up by 9.9%.

•  Successfully launched a senior unsecured 
five-year bond for USD 500 million. The 
issuance was oversubscribed 3.8 times and 

•  Best Cash Management and Transaction Bank 
in Qatar for 2020 from the “Asian Banker”.
•  Social Responsibility Award from “Arab Media 

Forum”.

•  Best Performing Bank in Qatar for 2020 from 

“The Banker”.

•  Most Innovative Digital Bank and Best 

Mobile Banking Application for 2020 from 
“International Finance Magazine”.

•  Excellence in Leadership in the Middle East 

award for 2020 from “Euromoney”.

•  Best Retail Bank in Qatar award for the fourth 
year in a row and the Best Digital Deposit 
Product in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa 
for 2020 from “The Asian Banker”.

21

Today, we take pride in leading the 
digital era in Qatar and 
guiding our customers on their 
life journey. 

22

CBQ Mobile App

23

Chairman’s Message

Abdulla Bin Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani
Chairman

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to 
present Commercial Bank’s Annual Report for the year 
ended on 31 December 2020.
2020 was dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, 
which has infected millions of people around the world 
and caused economic and social disruption in every 
nation. At the global level, COVID-19 has inflicted a major 
recession, with the IMF forecasting global growth to be 
-4.4%. However, the impact of COVID-19 has been far 
from equal across different countries. Due to strong 

leadership and decisive action on both health and the 
economy, Qatar has thankfully been less affected by 
COVID-19 than other parts of the world.
Qatar reacted quickly to the pandemic and took 
effective steps to control the spread of infection. As 
a result of preventative measures, health policies and 
long-term investment, Qatar’s health system has proven 
its reliability in dealing with the pandemic and ensured 
the wellbeing of citizens and residents. The government 
also intervened to support the economy, with the Qatar 

24

such as hospitality, tourism, and retail, together with 
fee removals and reductions on remittances and other 
transaction fees.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to 
express our thankfulness and gratitude for the visionary 
leadership of His Highness The Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin 
Hamad Al Thani. Under the leadership of His Highness, 
Qatar has experienced far less adverse impacts as a 
result of COVID-19 compared to other countries and 
continued to achieve its objectives in accordance with 
the Qatar National Vision 2030. Commercial Bank 
is fully aligned with, and contributes towards Qatar’s 
national development objectives. I also want to convey 
our appreciation for the guidance and support we 
have received from His Excellency the Prime Minister 
and Minister of the Interior, His Excellency the Minister 
of Finance, His Excellency the Minister of Commerce 
and Industry, and His Excellency the Governor of Qatar 
Central Bank.
Progress in reshaping our business under our five-year 
strategic plan has delivered strong revenue momentum 
despite the pandemic. Commercial Bank, its subsidiaries 
and associates announced its financial results for the full 
year ended on 31 December 2020, and the Board of 
Directors has recommended, for approval at the Annual 
General Assembly on 10 March 2021, a cash dividend 
payout of QAR 0.1 per share. I would like to thank the 
Board of Directors for its continued guidance, our 
employees for their hard work, our customers for their 
loyalty, and our shareholders for their support. 
2020 has been an unusual year due to COVID-19 but the 
pandemic has strengthened our belief in our five-year 
strategic plan and we are optimistic about 2021 as we 
continue on our transformation journey.

Abdulla Bin Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani
Chairman

Central Bank declaring a QAR 75 billion stimulus package 
for the private sector.
Qatar’s strong economic fundamentals and financial 
buffers have been able to withstand the twin shocks 
of low energy prices and COVID-19. This resilience has 
been recognized by the major rating agencies and Qatar 
has maintained strong sovereign ratings of Aa3, AA- and 
AA- from Moody’s, S&P and Fitch respectively. Qatar’s 
Planning and Statistics Authority expects the country’s 
GDP growth to be around -2.6% for 2020 but the 
economy is forecast to rebound in 2021 to 2022 with an 
average GDP growth rate of 1.85%. 
Qatar’s budget deficit in the first half of the year was 
lower than early projections due to the rationalisation 
of government spending and increased public sector 
efficiency. Despite budget cuts, the government 
continues to concentrate spending on health, 
education, and major infrastructure projects which 
gives us confidence in the immediate years ahead. 
Qatar remains the world’s leading LNG exporter and 
expansion of development in the North Field will help 
to secure Qatar’s economic future in combination with 
diversification efforts.
Commercial Bank has a clear five-year strategic plan 
initiated in 2016 to transform the Bank. Within that plan, 
key areas have been strengthening our risk culture, 
increasing our capital, reducing our cost to income ratio 
and continuing to build the Bank’s 45-year-old franchise 
in terms of new technology and innovation. Actions 
taken under this strategic plan enabled Commercial 
Bank to respond effectively to COVID-19, remaining fully 
operational while protecting the health and safety of our 
staff and customers.
As a leading Qatari bank, Commercial Bank recognizes 
our responsibilities towards supporting our customers 
and the economy following COVID-19. Banks are key 
enablers for the government’s economic stimulus 
measures and Commercial Bank is one of the largest 
providers of loans to SMEs and sectors particularly 
affected by COVID-19 under the National Response 
Guarantee Programme. This Programme is guaranteed 
by the Qatar Development Bank and allows loans to 
be taken by companies for rental and wage payments. 
Working in collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank, 
which acted as the apex controlling institution, we 
have deferred principal and interest payments for a 
number of months for customers in affected sectors 

25

Board of Directors

26

1

4

7

2

5

8

3

6

9

1. 

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali bin Jabor Al Thani
Chairman

2.  Mr. Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan

Vice Chairman
(Representing Alfardan Investment Company)

3.  HE Mr. Abdul Rahman Bin Hamad Al Attiyah

Member

4.  Mr. Omar Hussain Alfardan

Managing Director

5.  HE Mr. Bader Omar Al Dafa

Member

6.  Sheikh Faisal Bin Fahad bin Jassim Al Thani

Member

7.  Mr. Mohd Ismail Mandani Al Emadi

Member

8.  HE Mr. Khalaf Ahmed Al Mannai 

Member
(Representing Qatar Insurance Company)

9.  HE Mr. Saleh Abdulla Mohamed Al Ibrahim Al Mannai

Member

27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
From launching the first 
contactless payment 
to the first mobile wallet in Qatar,  
we innovate and strive towards  
digital and banking 
excellence. 

28

Throughout our history, 
we have maintained and 
upheld our identity as a 
Qatari Bank. 

CBPay Merchants App

29

Vice Chairman’s  
Message

Mr. Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan
Vice Chairman

In 2020, Commercial Bank affirmed its role as a source 
of stability against the disruption caused by COVID-19 
and continued to support its customers and the Qatari 
community. Thanks to our five-year strategic plan and 
the investment we have made in our business over 
the past four years, Commercial Bank demonstrated 
resilience at the business and operating level in 
challenging market conditions.

Operating profit was stable despite reduced commercial 
activity and the Bank’s participation in COVID-19 related 
economic stimulus schemes with concessionary interest 
rates and payment deferrals. The Bank delivered a 
consolidated operating profit of QAR 3.1 billion up 
by 0.7% (+14.1% on normalized basis) compared to 
the previous year. Consolidated net profit declined 
35.6% to QAR 1.3 billion, impacted by impairments 

30

to our associate UAB and increased provisioning due 
to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as difficult market 
conditions in Turkey which impacted Alternatif Bank. 
Domestically, the Bank reported a net profit of QAR 2.1 
billion, representing a 20.4% decrease over the same 
period last year.
Despite the low interest rate environment, consolidated 
net interest income for 2020 increased by 4.6% to 
QAR 3.1 billion compared to the same period last year. 
Adjusting for the impact of IFRS 2, net interest income 
increased 17.7%. The improvement was driven by the 
effective management of our cost of funding to ensure 
that our cost of deposits declined faster than our asset 
yields. Operating income for 2020 was QAR 4.2 billion 
compared with QAR 4.3 billion (normalized QAR 3.9 
billion) in the previous year, impacted by a reduction 
in total fees and other income due to lower spends on 
credit cards as a result of reduced international travel.
Our strategic focus on Transaction Banking and fee-
based services such as remittances, cash management 
and wealth management support sustainable growth in 
the long-term as it builds fee income that is not purely 
based on lending. Total fees and other income declined 
17.8% to QAR 1.1 billion (-6.8% on normalized basis) in 
2020 compared to the previous year due to reduced 
card spending related to COVID-19 and a reduction 
in investment income as a result of unprecedented 
volatility in the global markets. The decline in investment 
income was partially offset by gains in FX and trading 
income as our remittance and trade services continued 
to expand.
Supported by the success of Transaction Banking 
and cash management services, consolidated low-
cost deposits grew 24.8% in 2020, contributing to 
an improvement in NIMs. Group customer deposits 
decreased to QAR 75.8 billion, marginally down by 
0.7% compared to the previous year. Group loans and 
advances were QAR 96.7 billion at the end of 2020, 
up 9.9% compared to the previous year supported 
by strong services, commercial and public sector 
borrowings. Under the five-year strategic plan, our 
strategic intent is to de-risk and re-shape our balance 
sheet. In terms of re-shaping, the Bank’s exposure to 
government and public sector loans increased by  
14.9% in 2020.

Net provisioning in 2020 increased 40.7% compared 
to the previous year, in addition to strong recoveries, 
reflecting our prudent approach of factoring in the 
impact of COVID-19 into our ECL models. With increased 
COVID-19 model impacts, cost of risk was 95bps higher 
than the previous year of 68bps. Our NPL ratio improved 
to 4.3% in 2020 compared to 4.9% in the previous year 
due to resolution of certain cases.
In line with our strategy to drive operational efficiencies 
across the business through investment in digitization 
and eliminating waste, the Bank’s cost to income ratio 
improved to 25.9% (26.0% on normalized basis) in 
2020 from 28.3% (28.7% on normalized basis) in the 
previous year.
Our subsidiary Alternatif Bank’s performance in 2020 
was impacted by the softening of the Turkish economy 
and an 18.5% depreciation of the Turkish lira during 
the period. Despite these challenges, Alternatif Bank 
reported a profit of QAR 57.5 million during the year 
supported by a 11.0% improvement in operating 
expenses as the bank focused on driving efficiency. 
The impact from our share of associates in 2020 was 
negative as we recorded an impairment in the carrying 
value of UAB in line with our guidance to bring the book 
value of the asset closer to its fair value.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to 
convey our sincere gratitude for the visionary and 
gracious leadership of His Highness The Amir, His 
Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, 
His Excellency the Minister of Finance, His Excellency  
the Minister of Commerce and Industry, and His 
Excellency the Governor of the Qatar Central Bank 
for their wisdom in guidance and support, which we 
continue to greatly appreciate.

Mr. Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan
Vice Chairman

31

Group Chief Executive 
Officer’s Message

Joseph Abraham
Group Chief Executive Officer

The arrival of COVID-19 in 2020 has affected everyone’s 
lives and caused dramatic changes to the way we 
work, bank, socialize and travel. For Commercial Bank, 
the pandemic has presented both a challenge and an 
opportunity to demonstrate resilience and provide our 
clients with world-class banking services, particularly in 
the digital field.
Our five-year strategic plan is based on the 5 Cs of 
Commercial Bank: Corporate earnings quality; Client 
experience; Creativity and innovation (Digital Creativity); 

Culture; and Compliance, together with a focus on best-
in-class Transaction Banking. 2020 marked the fourth 
full year of strong execution our strategic plan, with all 
elements being even more relevant today as a result 
of the pandemic. The actions we have taken to execute 
against the 5 Cs over the last four years have laid the 
essential foundations that have made Commercial Bank 
resilient to the shock of COVID-19 and given us the ability 
to quickly adapt, positioning us well for the future.

32

Corporate earnings quality showed some effects of 
COVID-19 in 2020 but at the same time resilience. 
We continued to conservatively provision and take 
impairments for our associates but our strong risk 
culture and work to clean up our legacy loan book has 
limited some of the impacts of the pandemic. We have 
reshaped and diversified our loan book by proactively 
exiting high risk names, decreased our concentration 
in real estate and increased our share of high-quality 
government and public sector loans. We increased our 
capital to 12.2% to exceed our CET1 target range of 11-
11.5% a year early and we continued to improve our cost 
to income ratio, moving down from the highest in the 
market four years ago at 45% to 25.9%, much closer to 
the market average. Costs have been reduced by cutting 
out waste and unproductive parts of the business, while 
we have continued to invest significantly in our people, 
processes, technology, brand and premises.
This investment over four years means that we are well 
placed to capture the changes in customer behaviour 
that have been accelerated by COVID-19. The pandemic 
has fundamentally shifted the way we interact with our 
customers, with more and more Transaction Banking 
performed digitally through internet, mobile and self-
service channels. Digital is a core part of our 5 Cs and 
continued investment under our strategic plan means 
that that we have the right capabilities to be successful 
in our new world where Client experience, Creativity, 
innovation, digital and technology all mix together. 
Our collaborative “One Bank” culture is one of our 
strengths and this was demonstrated in 2020 with 
teams across Commercial Bank working together to 
maintain full banking operations during the pandemic 
and by rapidly executing large, complex cross-
departmental projects. Compliance continues to be a 
key focus area for the Bank under our strategic plan and 
we made good progress in 2020.
Commercial Bank’s achievements in 2020 have been 
recognised by a number a publications and industry 
bodies and we have received several awards including 
many repeat awards: “Excellence in Leadership in the 
Middle East” for our swift and innovative response to 
the pandemic that ensured business continuity while 
continuing to support customers and staff to protect 
their health and safety; “Best Digital Bank in Qatar”; “Most 
Innovative Digital Bank”; “Best Cash Management Bank 
in Qatar”; and “Best Retail Bank in Qatar.” These awards 

are testament to all our staff in Commercial Bank and 
our subsidiary and associates for their hard work and 
dedication during this unusual and unique year.
In support of our customers and Qatar’s economy, we 
are one of the largest providers of loans to SMEs and 
sectors particularly affected by COVID-19 under Qatar 
Development Bank’s National Response Guarantee 
Programme, and we have implemented further stimulus 
measures in collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank, 
such as loan postponements and concessionary interest 
rates for SMEs and corporates in affected sectors, 
together with fee removals and reductions on other 
transaction fees.
Today we are more integrated with our subsidiary and 
associates than at the start of our five-year plan and 
we will continue to deepen our collaboration with our 
subsidiary Alternatif Bank in Turkey and our associates 
National Bank of Oman and United Arab Bank. Alternatif 
Bank has a good management team and despite a 
softening of the Turkish economy and the depreciation 
of the Turkish lira, delivered positive returns and 
reported a net profit of QAR 57.5 million. National Bank 
of Oman was impacted by the economic climate and we 
took an impairment on the carrying value of United Arab 
Bank in line with our prudent approach, meaning the 
overall impact from our share of associates during 2020 
was negative.
Our five-year strategic plan and the investment we have 
made in our business have given us the capabilities and 
confidence to meet the challenges of COVID-19. Building 
on this foundation, the continued support and guidance 
of our Board and the commitment of our staff working 
together across the whole Bank means that we will end 
2020 in a strong position and we are well positioned for 
a resumption of growth in 2021.

Joseph Abraham
Group Chief Executive Officer

33

34

We have been together 
through it all. We have faced 
challenges and risen 
above them.

35

Management Review  
of Operations

Financial Results
In 2020, Commercial Bank delivered a net profit of QAR 
1,301 million, a decrease of 35.6% compared to the QAR 
2,021 million achieved in 2019. 
Loans and advances to customers increased by 9.9% to 
QAR 96.7 billion at 31 December 2020, compared with 
QAR 88.0 billion in 2019. The increase was mainly in the 
commercial and government public sectors.
Our deposits decreased by 0.7%, to QAR 75.8 billion at 
31 December 2020 compared with QAR 76.3 billion in 
2019, the decrease is mainly in time deposits however, 
current and savings deposits have increased by 24.8% 
due to the various cash management initiatives and 
digital products that the bank offers.
Investment securities decreased by 4.0% to QAR 25.8 
billion as at 31 December 2020 compared with QAR 
26.8 billion at the end of December 2019. The decrease 
is mainly due to maturities in Government bonds.

Financial Results (QAR million)
Net interest income
Non-interest income
Net operating income
Operating expenses
Impairment on loans & financial 
assets
Impairment on Associate
Share of results of associates
Income tax expense
Net profit for the year

2020
2019
3,100 2,963
1,137
1,384
4,237
4,347
(1,096)
(1,228)

(1,024)

(654)

(591)
(210)
(15)
1,301

Operating Expenses (QAR million) 2020
633
Staff costs
264
General and administrative expenses
199
Depreciation and amortization
1,096
Total operating expenses

36

Rehan Khan 
EGM, Chief Financial Officer 

Net Operating Income
Commercial Bank’s net operating income reached 
QAR 4,237 million for the year ended 31 December 
2020, a decrease of 2.5% compared with QAR 4,347 
million achieved in 2019. Net operating income for the 
Bank in Qatar increased by 1.5% to QAR 3,804 million 
compared to the same period in 2019.
Net interest income for the group increased by 4.6% 
to QAR 3,100 for the year ended 31 December 2020 
compared with QAR 2,963 in 2019. On normalized 
basis, net interest margin increased to 2.4% for the 
year ended 31 December 2020 compared to 2.3% 
(reported 2.5%) achieved in the same period in 2019. 
Although asset yields have reduced, the increase in 
margins is mainly due to proactive management of the 
cost of funding. 
Non-interest income decreased by 17.8% to QAR 
1,137 million for the year ended 31 December 2020 
compared with QAR 1,384 million in 2019. The overall 
decrease in non-interest income was mainly due to 
an adverse unrealized mark to market movement 
in investment and trading income as a result of the 
unprecedented volatility in the global markets in  
H1 2020.

(414)
(7) 
(23)
2,021

2019
796
227
205
1,228

Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses decreased at a group level 
by 10.7% to QAR 1,096 million for the year ended 31 
December 2020 compared with QAR 1,228 million 
in 2019. The decrease was primarily driven by our 
continued productivity enhancements.
Provisions for Impairment Losses
Provisions for loans and advances for the group 
increased by 40.7% to QAR 836 million for the year 
ended 31 December 2020, compared to QAR 594 
million provided in 2019. The non-performing loan 
ratio decreased to 4.3% in December 2020 compared 
to 4.9% in 2019, the loan coverage ratio increased to 
101.6% as at December 2020 compared to 82.1% in 
December 2019.
The bank sets aside a risk reserve against its lending as 
part of shareholders’ equity. At 31 December 2020, the 
risk reserve was QAR 2,037 million.
In addition, the group impaired its associate United Arab 
Bank by QAR 591 million in 2020.
Total Assets and Funding
Commercial Bank balance sheet increased by 4.1% in 
2020, with total assets at QAR 153.6 billion compared to 
QAR 147.5 billion in 2019. 
Balance sheet increase was driven by QAR 8.7 billion 
increase in loans and advances, and partially offset by 
decrease of QAR 1.1 billion in investment securities and a 
decrease of QAR 2.0 billion in due from banks.
Customers’ deposits slightly decreased by 0.7% to QAR 
75.8 billion at 31 December 2020, compared with QAR 
76.3 billion in 2019, a decrease of QAR 0.5 billion. Low-
cost deposits grew by 24.8% in 2020, contributing to 
the improvement in NIMs.
Capital
Commercial Bank’s capital position remains strong, the 
capital adequacy ratio increased to 17.8% as at  

31 December 2020 compared to 16.4% at the end of 
2019. The capital adequacy ratio is above the Qatar 
Central Bank’s required minimum level of 14.0%. 
Subsidiaries
Alternatif Bank
Alternatif Bank delivered a net profit of TL 58 million for 
the year ended 31 December 2020, with total assets of 
TL 36.9 billion and lending of TL 23.6 billion. 
Alternatif Bank provides its customers in the corporate, 
commercial and retail banking segments with high 
value products, services and solutions. Alternatif Bank 
has 44 branches widely distributed around Turkey. In 
2020, Alternatif Bank continued to work closely with its 
counterparts in Commercial Bank to implement best 
international practice and continue to realise synergies. 
Commercial Bank Financial Services (L.L.C.)
Commercial Bank Financial Services (CBFS) is a fully 
owned subsidiary of Commercial Bank. CBFS provides 
direct access to the Qatar Exchange and offers seamless 
online trading capabilities for individuals, institutions, 
corporate and foreign counterparties. In addition to 
its electronic trading platform, CBFS is also licensed 
by Qatar Financial Markets Authority to act as Liquidity 
Provider for certain securities at Qatar Exchange. In 
2020, CBFS delivered a net profit of QAR 10.7 million. 
Orient 1 Limited
A fully owned subsidiary that owns and manages an 
exclusive Diners Club franchise in Turkey.
CBQ Finance Limited
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Bermuda 
and organised as a special purpose entity established 
to raise capital for Commercial Bank by issue of debt 
instruments.

Other Income

Foreign Exchange 
Income

-1%

Investment &  
Dividend 
Income
73%

2%

7%

Net Interest 
Income

Other Reserves

Retained Earnings

Risk 
Reserve

3%

7%

9%

45%

Legal  
Reserve

Net Fee 
Income

19%

Net Operating  
Income

Additional  
Tier 1 Note

18%

Shareholder’s  
Equity

18%

Share Capital

37

Management Review  
of Operations continued

CB Global Trading Limited 
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Cayman Islands, 
an intermediary vehicle for Derivatives.
CB Innovation Services (L.L.C.)
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the 
Qatar Financial Centre Authority providing the Bank with 
operations management services. 
CB Asset Management L.L.C. 
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the 
Qatar Financial Centre Authority established to provide 
asset management services.
CB Real Estate Properties L.L.C. 
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under the 
Qatar Financial Centre Authority providing the Bank with 
advisory services in relation to property.
CB Leasing Company L.L.C. 
A fully owned subsidiary incorporated in Qatar under 
the Qatar Financial Centre Authority that leases and 
subleases properties in Qatar.
Associates 
National Bank of Oman (S.A.O.G.)
National Bank of Oman (NBO) achieved net profit of 
OMR 18 million, compared with OMR 51 million in 2019. 
Operating income decreased to OMR 117 million, 
compared with OMR 128 million in 2019.
During 2020, NBO loans and advances increased by 
3.1% to OMR 2.9 billion.
United Arab Bank (P.J.S.C.)
We have taken a goodwill charge of QAR 591 million for 
United Arab Bank in 2020 and continuously working 
to ensure that UAB achieves improved results through 
implementation of a new strategic plan.
Massoun Insurance Services (L.L.C.)
Massoun Insurance Services is a Qatari incorporated 
joint venture company between Commercial Bank and 
Qatar Insurance Company. The company provides a 
range of insurance products which have been tailored 
to meet the specific needs of the Bank’s retail and 
corporate customers. 

38

Raju Buddhiraju 
EGM, Wholesale Banking

Wholesale Banking
Commercial Bank’s Wholesale Banking department 
offers a comprehensive range of financial services to 
corporate businesses in Qatar, international companies 
trading or implementing projects in Qatar, and corporate 
relationships across the Bank’s strategic markets 
in Turkey, the GCC and other target geographies 
with high-growth potentials. These services include 
commercial banking, treasury, investment banking, cash 
management, trade, transaction banking, corporate 
finance and advisory services across different industries. 
Wholesale Banking comprises Domestic Corporate 
Banking and Transaction Banking, and has strong and 
longstanding banking relationships with leading Qatari 
businesses, nurtured over the years through excellent 
customer service, tailored financial solutions, and the 
application of innovative technologies.
Business performance
In 2020, Wholesale Banking’s business represented 
the growth of most of the Bank’s total loan book and 
generated over half of the Bank’s total revenues. In 
line with the Bank’s five-year strategic plan, Wholesale 
Banking proactively initiated several new measures,  
such as:
•  Growing the balance sheet in line with the market, 
primarily within the government and public sector; 

•  Strategically re-shaping the composition of the 

balance sheet to reflect the market;

•  Proactively de-risking the balance sheet for 

sustainable growth;

•  Building a strong pipeline of the right customers, with 
the right risk profile and the right quality of assets; 

•  Focusing on Transaction Banking;
•  Diversifying revenue streams;
•  Working closely with Alliance banks.
Growing the government and public sector balance 
sheet
Asset growth in the government and public sector 
balance sheet during 2020 was over 25%. The growth 
of this sector in Commercial Bank’s book is estimated to 
be significantly faster than the market growth. We have 
identified more than 35 new public sector customers to 
focus on, targeting cash management, FX opportunities, 
and trade facilities apart from lending.
Re-shaping Wholesale Banking’s balance sheet
The composition of the balance sheet has been 
reshaped in two key areas to reflect stresses in the 
market and to ensure a quality mix of assets, which are: 
•  Growth of government and public sector lending from 
21% of Wholesale Banking’s portfolio in YTD 2019 to 
29% in YTD 2020; 

•  Rationalisation of real estate exposure with a 

significant reduction in Wholesale Banking portfolio in 
line with bank’s Strategic plan.

Growth of government and public sector Lending 
and rationalisation of real estate exposure remains 
a strategic aim, with a five-year target of 21% and 
25% composition of the Wholesale Banking book 
respectively.
De-risking selected exposures
As part of prudent risk management, Wholesale Banking 
identified certain clients with exposure to be either 
partially or fully reduced to ensure Commercial Bank 
does not have very large exposure towards any client.  
In 2020, the total amount of intentionally de-risked 
assets was more than QAR 1.45 billion, with an 
additional de-risking of over QAR 1.0 billion by 2021, 
for an optimized balance sheet containing high-quality 
customers and assets.
Growth and strong lending pipeline
Wholesale Banking’s lending book grew by 
approximately 11% in 2020, most of it in the Public 
Sector segment. Wholesale Banking’s focus in 2020  

was to grow its lending book with the right risk profile 
and the right quality, in conjunction with the strategic 
aims of reshaping and de-risking to maintain growth 
and ensure a sustainable revenue stream in the future. 
The lending pipeline originating from the public sector 
represents over 50% of the total lending pipeline.
Cross-selling
Diversification of the revenue, primarily an increase of 
the fee income that is not lending-based, is one of the 
major strategic aims of Wholesale Banking. Fee income 
was above 15% of Wholesale Banking’s total operating 
income, resulting in part from cross-selling innovative 
new services to customers across Domestic, Corporate 
Banking, and Transaction Banking.
Working with Alliance banks
Wholesale Banking contributes to the efforts of 
enhancing synergies with our Alliance banks, Alternatif 
Bank and National Bank of Oman, through cross-selling 
activities, supporting Turkish companies as well as Qatari 
business in Oman. We have been very active in this area.
Domestic Corporate Banking
Domestic Corporate Banking provides a comprehensive 
range of cross-product banking solutions to corporate 
clients operating in Qatar. This unit services client 
relationships across the following sectors: large 
corporates, mid-market corporates, contracting, 
ultrahigh net worth, government and public sector. 
Domestic Corporate Banking was active in arranging 
large financings in the domestic syndicated and club 
loan markets, and was associated with a number of the 
successful transactions in 2020, including key arterial 
highways connecting stadiums being built for the  
2022 World Cup, and supporting district cooling in the 
Lusail area. 
In 2020, Domestic Corporate Banking continued to 
focus on organic growth of operations by delivering 
the best client experience and service quality through 
innovative banking solutions with state-of-the-art 
technologies. This includes introducing host-to-
host connectivity and providing a direct link with our 
customers to enhance the client experience. 
Wholesale Banking continues to work very closely with 
Retail Banking through the successful Banking at Work 
unit, where a key strategic focus has been to enhance 
the total relationship value for each customer across all 
business portfolios.

39

Management Review  
of Operations continued

Transaction Banking
Commercial Bank has been continuously enhancing 
products and services to maintain its leadership position 
in Transaction Banking in Qatar. In 2020, the Bank rolled 
out new services and strengthened the product suite. 
Customer adoption of digital channels has improved 
substantially - 85% of payments, 98% of salaries and 
50% of trade transactions are now conducted digitally. 
The Bank’s efforts with regards to digitization are also 
recognized by Global Finance and the Bank has been 
rewarded the “Best Trade Finance Services, Corporate 
Digital Banking” award and the “Best Online Cash 
Management Bank” in Qatar award. 
Following a meticulous study by qualified research 
organizations that look into the nominated institutions, 
talent, leadership skills, industry net worth and capability, 
this year has been very successful for the Transaction 
Banking Team of the Bank as we have by far secured the 
following prestigious awards:
•  Best Cash Management Bank 
•  Best Mobile Banking App 
•  Best Trade Finance Service
Some of other significant initiatives are as follows:
•  Automated insurance service for trade finance 

customers;

•  Postdated cheque Management solution for the 

benefit of Real Estate sector that provides control of 
data, remote submission of cheques and custody;

•  Corporate Mobile App with rich features to conduct all 

payments and inquiries of bank accounts; 

•  Updated CB Smart Trade solution that helps ease 

transaction flow, faster turnaround time and real-time 
status updates; 

•  Corporate Mobile application enriched with seamless 
retrieval and approval of Salary and bulk payments 
initiated on line (Corporate Internet Banking);

•  Swift GPI for corporates through CIB and mobile for 
online tracking customer transactions on real time 
basis; 

•  Multiple structured trade solutions for leading 

automobile Dealers and other commodity traders  
that assisted imports in Qatar on an extended  
credit period; 

•  Implemented customized B2B solutions for 

large public sector conglomerates engaged in 
Transportation, Aviation and Exports; 

•  International remittances have seen significant  

growth of 49% and exports share has moved up to 
19% from 16%. 

Transaction Banking has worked closely with international 
Block Chain initiatives for Trade Finance conducted by 
Voltron and Marco Polo along with many international 
banks and in 2021 will move to testing phase from 
the current design phase. This would be a significant 
innovation which will add value to our customers.

40

International Banking
International Banking at Commercial Bank is responsible 
for providing correspondent banking services, 
corporate cross-border loans and other Wholesale 
Banking products to financial institutions, large 
corporates, sovereigns, non-bank financial institutions, 
and high to ultra-high net worth family offices based 
outside of Qatar. In 2020, the Bank’s international 
corporate lending strategy focused mostly on diversified 
sectors with strong Qatari angles.
The corporate lending business maintained its strategic 
drive towards diversification, targeting landmark 
opportunities both on direct balance sheet transactions 
and cross-selling activities such as FX and derivatives.
Commercial Bank’s cross-border business strategy 
remains cautious and focused on portfolio diversification 
and revenues from trade finance flows and banks, and 
strategic relationships with large corporates in the 
EMEA region, Turkey, and selectively across the North 
American, Asia Pacific and Sub-Saharan African markets.
The lower risk and mostly short-term trade finance 
book saw prudent activity in 2020. Another key pillar 
of our strategy was to collaborate more closely on 
correspondent banking services, credit products and 
other cross-border business activities of Commercial 
Bank with our Alliance bank partners to benefit from 
synergistic growth across the Commercial Bank Group.
Diversifying funding
The International Banking department also plays a 
key role in supporting the Bank’s funding needs by 
leveraging its global relationships and supporting the 
Treasury Department in diversifying the Bank’s funding. 
This is achieved by arranging bilateral and syndicated 
loans for the Bank and expanding treasury and 
corporate deposit relationships with regional and Asian 
sovereign wealth funds, asset managers, and other 
nonbank financial institutions.
Supporting business initiatives
Supporting major business initiatives that are relevant 
to the Qatari banking sector remains a key pillar of 
the International Banking business. In 2020, the Bank 
sponsored and participated in several major banking 
industry events and conferences. These included:
•  The Annual Meetings of the International  

Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Institute of International 
Finance (IIF).

•  SIBOS, a major industry event for banks and financial 

institutions around the world.

Fahad Badar  
EGM, International Banking

Commercial Bank continues to support its financing and 
services network with global trade and development 
institutions such as the ICC Banking Commission, SWIFT, 
the Institute of International Finance, the International 
Finance Corporation, IMF, Arab Trade Finance Program, 
ISDA and other development institutions.
2021 priorities
Moving forward, our strategic priorities in 2021 and 
beyond will be to manage and expand the business 
along the following lines:
•  Focus on opportunistic growth in the network 
countries of our Alliance banks, with a view to 
strengthening the client proposition and create 
synergies in these markets;

•  Diversify cautiously into Asia and Africa as trade 
and investment flows pick up and also grow into 
developed markets like the US, UK and select 
OECD countries for portfolio diversification and risk 
management purposes;

•  Enhance the value proposition by developing 

structured finance, distribution, trade, and treasury 
capabilities, which lead to increased cross-selling and 
improve International Banking’s portfolio returns;
•  Maintain a well-diversified portfolio with no large 

concentrations in line with regulatory and the Bank’s 
governance standards, focusing on tangible collateral 
and security support for risk mitigation to withstand 
credit event downturns;

•  Support the Commercial Bank Group’s funding 

initiatives and balance sheet growth by leveraging 
Commercial Bank’s international corporate network.

41

Management Review  
of Operations continued

Retail and Enterprise Banking 
Commercial Bank’s Retail Banking team manages  
the banking and financial needs for individuals  
and businesses of small and medium-sized  
enterprise (SMEs).
Our broad product range includes bank accounts, 
deposits, loans, credit cards, insurance, and wealth 
management. These financial solutions help our 
customers as both individuals and business entities.
The Enterprise banking team is dedicated to support the 
needs of small and medium sized businesses in a range 
of industries and provide tailor-made solutions for their 
customers.
As a business group, we are fully aligned and 
committed to the Bank’s 5-year transformation strategy 
underpinned by Five Cs - Corporate Earnings Quality, 
Client Experience, Creativity & Innovation, Culture  
and Compliance.
We are proud to have won 9 awards in 2020, as a 
testimony to our commitment and innovation, that 
makes it easy and convenient for our customers to bank 
with us: Many were for excellence in the digital banking 
space:
•  “Best Retail Bank in Qatar” by The Asian Banker for the 

4th consecutive year

•  “The Best Digital Deposit Product of the year 2020” by 

The Asian Banker 

•  “Best Mobile Banking Application” in Qatar award by 

International Finance Magazine 2020

Amit Sah
EGM, Consumer Banking

•  “Most innovative Digital Bank” in Qatar award by 

International Finance Magazine 2020

•  The Banker Award for “Innovation in Digital Banking” in 

the Middle East 2020 

•  “Best Consumer Digital Bank in Qatar” Award by Global 

Finance Middle East 2020

•  “Most Innovative Digital Bank in Qatar” Award by 

Global Finance Middle East 2020

•  “Best Online Product Offerings in Qatar” Award by 

Global Finance Middle East 2020

•  “Best Mobile Banking app in Qatar” Award by Global 

Finance Middle East 2020

42

INTERNATIONAL FINANCEAWARDS 2020International FinancePublications Ltd. Sunil Bhat, DirectorInternational FinanceThis is to certify thatHas been awardedThe Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C) Best Mobile Banking Application QatarINTERNATIONAL FINANCEAWARDS 2020International FinancePublications Ltd. Sunil Bhat, DirectorInternational FinanceThis is to certify thatHas been awardedThe Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C) Most Innovative Digital Bank QatarBusiness performance
Retail Banking continues to contribute significantly to 
Commercial Bank’s overall performance.
Built on a strong franchise of customer service and 
innovation, Retail Banking has delivered strong 
performance in 2020.
The Retail and Enterprise balance sheet remained 
healthy with lending to customers adjusted to QAR 9.7 
billion and deposits growing to QAR 24.7 billion as at end 
October 2020.
Our innovative services, especially in remittances and 
product positioning including Wealth Management, 
have helped Retail Banking maintain consistency in 
performance through 2020.
We take great pride in delivering a quality service to  
all our customers, with our Private Banking and  
Sadara Premium Banking services leading with 
exceptional standards.
Branch and ATM networks
We continue to maintain one of the largest branch 
networks amongst all the banks in the country and we 
continued to reshape our distribution mode, to ensure 
fit for purpose physical distribution that complements 
our strong digital banking presence.
Our modern look-and-feel new breed of smart 
Branches, offer customers increased self-service 
functionality and customers can use our branches 24x7 
at their convenience.
In addition to re-aligning our footprint, we continue to 
transform and enrich customer experiences for key 
branch services offering reduced wait times and limiting 
use of manually filled paper work.
Our branch network is supplemented by over 172 ATMs 
that are strategically located around Qatar to ensure 
optimum usage of the network by customers.
Customers can conveniently perform Cash withdrawals, 
Cash & Cheque deposits, Bill Payments, Transfers and 
generate or change PINs for their cards through our 
ATM network. 
Retail Internet and Mobile Banking
Motivated by our continued digital success, we 
maintained persistent efforts in 2020 to enhance 
the range of services offered by our Internet Banking 
platform and Mobile Banking App.
The CB Internet Banking and Mobile Banking App offer 
greater flexibility than ever before with millions of 
customer logins every month, reducing the need for 
customer to visit or call us, whilst continuing to transact 
in a safe, secure and convenient manner.

Success of our 60-Seconds Remittances’ initiative 
encouraged us to expand our reach to over 30 
countries including India, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, 
Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Turkey, Jordan, UK & 
Europe allowing customers to send faster payments to 
accounts and through cash pickup services, reducing 
reliance on other traditional methods.
In Q1-2020 we enabled customers to use their mobile 
devices to perform ‘Tap n Pay’ transactions while making 
payments at any contactless POS terminals and even 
complete remote online e-commerce purchases via 
Masterpass checkout services without exposing their 
credit card details.
With a customer centric approach, we engage our 
customers with innovative features such as augmented 
reality, Instant account opening via our Mobile App, 
digital mobile cheque deposit, CB Household Worker 
Paycard, CB Pay for Merchants supporting Mobile and 
QR code payments and many more services.
We are proud that our CB Mobile App consistently 
features as the #1 Financial App in Qatar, in both Apple 
and Android App stores. Customer satisfaction remains 
high with net promoter score ratings above 80.
Cards
In recent years, the card market has seen significant 
changes due to the technological advancement and the 
digitization of the banking scene. Commercial Bank’s 
Cards and Payments business has been ahead of the 
curve for a long time now, and that is thanks to the 
Bank’s solid strategy and clear vision around adoption 
of technology to serve its customer better. Commercial 
Bank was one of the first banks in Qatar to launch the 
comprehensive Contactless payment ecosystem 
comprising Contactless Credit Cards, Debit Cards and 
POS terminals in 2018. Leveraging the contactless 
payment platform, Commercial Bank launched Qatar’s 
first Cards digital mobile wallet, enabling Android users 
to pay for goods and services by simply tapping their 
phones at point of sale terminals. 
In an effort to encourage good hygiene and social 
distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the 
bank promoted heavily the contactless cards and their 
usage. The result being the Bank has achieved market 
dominating numbers of issuance of over 350,000 
Contactless Cards and processing more than 10 million 
Contactless POS transactions in 2020. Bank also 
deployed over 200 contactless terminals in 2020 
bringing the total number of contactless terminals 
deployed in the market to 10,700 terminals.

43

Management Review  
of Operations continued

We continue to increase our developments in our 
people, process, products and systems. We focus 
on building on strong foundations and provide the 
diversified portfolios and wealth solutions based on our 
customers’ needs and objectives. As part of providing 
Wealth Management Products to our customers as a 
competitive advantage, we focused on enhancing our 
wealth product account opening process and facilitating 
our customers’ journey. Looking ahead we will continue 
automating the operational processes and introduce a 
wider range of wealth products, enabling our customers 
to diversify their portfolios. 
Customer Acquisition
We developed numerous methods to enable new 
customers to join the Bank, in easy to apply and digitally 
enhanced account applications. 
Digital Account Opening was made available across 
frontline channels to make account opening quick 
and easy. Customers walk out from CB branches with 
an active account, details including the IBAN are all 
provided in a welcome letter. A personalized debit card 
can be instantly printed too.
CB Instant Account was launched for new customers 
wishing to open a Commercial Bank account. Customers 
can simply download the Bank’s award-winning mobile 
application, “CBQ Mobile”, complete the application on 
their mobile device after uploading the QID, Passport 
and Salary Certificate and receive their bank account 
number in less than 5 minutes. A staff member 
ultimately meets the customer to assist in providing 
debit cards and cheque books as part of the welcome 
experience.
Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary 
disruption in the arrivals of new working expats to 
Qatar, our Life in Qatar innovative offer continued to be 
available to welcome them again and allow to open a 
bank account quickly. Customers can have their account 
numbers ready as soon as they apply, even before 
arriving in the country. A dedicated team who speaks 
their language welcomes them the minute they land in 
Qatar with their debit and credit cards. The partnership 

Qatar University Winner with officials

Qatar has one of the highest per capita income in the 
world and given the fact that affluent consumers tend to 
use their Credit cards frequently, we continue to invest in 
our flagship portfolio of the Limited-Edition Cards. The 
Metal World Elite MasterCard Credit Card for Limited 
Edition Customers, a brand-new metal card offering 
contactless payment functionality unlocks a universe 
of world-class privileges for its holders, and offers an 
unparalleled array of specially selected travel, lifestyle 
and rewards. 
CB Fawri the instant discount at POS terminals, without 
customer having to ask for the discount continues to 
grow.
Commercial Bank continues to play a key role in Qatar’s 
merchant acquiring business and has forged ahead 
with fully integrated ECR payment system with retailers. 
Commercial Bank also launched “CB Pay for Merchants” 
a unique QR code-based payments acceptance solution 
to help merchants with remote payments acceptance. 
During Corona virus lockdown, domestic workers were 
restricted in their options to send money home. The 
Household Worker Paycard product was launched in this 
context and provides a solution for domestic workers 
who could otherwise had trouble to send remittances. 
Wealth Management
Our Wealth Management themes today continue to 
revolve around utilizing our competitive strengths of 
size, AUMs, and operating capabilities. 

44

with Qatar Visa Centres in selected overseas locations 
also enables inbound expat customers to resolve 
banking needs even before stepping foot in the country.
Focus on the Youth 
Sadara Youth, is a digital product designed to fit the 
needs and lifestyles of young Qatari customers aged 
between 18 and 25 years. A year after the Sadara Youth 
package delivered the 1st Mobile Banking application in 
Qatar that educates and rewards young customers and 
issued the 1st vertical design Credit Card in Qatar, the 
proposition lead the launch of another 1st in Qatar. 
The 1st ever Commercial Bank and Qatar University 
Design competition was launched to allow Qatar 
University students to create their own space at the 
CB Metro Station branch. Students were engaged to 
propose their ideas on how they want their Sadara Youth 
space in this modern new branch in order to suit the 
needs of the modern young society. The QU partnership 
has been a huge success in terms of honing the skills 
and developing talents of the youth. This is only the 
beginning of future collaborations that will assist in the 
advancement of current and future generations.
SME - Small and Medium Enterprise banking
We remain committed to the empowerment of the 
SME sector in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. 
Commercial Bank was at the forefront of the recent 
government initiatives to support the SME sector, 
playing a significant role in disbursing the National 
Response Guarantee Program loans created as a result 
of the pandemic’s financial impact on business. We were 
able to quickly provide technology solutions to facilitate 
safer and more efficient transactions for customers 
during this challenging period.
Building upon the 360-degree view of our customers, 
we have revamped our relationship management 
model and successfully launched industry specific cash 
management and digital banking solutions. Commercial 
Bank introduced a new and innovative product, CB 
Pay for Merchants, a dedicated mobile application 
to support businesses to initiate, receive and track 
payments seamlessly from their customers.
We continue to educate and migrate our customers to 
self-service digital banking services. The digital channels 
have given SMEs better control over cash flows and 
provided flexibility to securely transact from the comfort 
of their offices. 

Response to COVID-19
Our customer feedback on how we handled and 
responded during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic 
was most reassuring. We acted with pace and took 
decisive actions to keep our customers safe and their 
banking needs catered for digitally.
Branches were made safe with distancing, cleansing, 
digital appointment booking. Digital development 
happened constantly with products launched to help 
customers remit funds, transact online, increase 
contactless payments and minimize the need to handle 
cash. Communications were 24/7 with a variety of 
messages keeping customers well informed with the 
changing scenarios through lockdowns and restricted 
working hours.

Treasury and Investments
The Commercial Bank’s Treasury and Investments 
Department is responsible for asset-liability 
management, capital and financial market investments, 
trading, and treasury sales. The department manages 
the overall funding and liquidity requirements of the 
Bank. This includes management of operational and 
strategic liquidity requirements, as well as accessing the 
international debt capital markets for funding needs.
Departmental functions
Proactive management allows the Bank to manage its 
funding base in a cost-efficient manner while ensuring 
its balance sheet is managed in accordance with the 
expectations of rating agencies, regulators, the Board of 
Directors and shareholders. The department’s treasury 
function has been instrumental in maintaining a stable 
cost of funding, managing the duration of the Bank’s 
liabilities in a volatile interest rate environment, seeking 
diversification of funding channels, and maintaining key 
liquidity ratios and related business regulatory ratios as 
required by the Qatar Central Bank.
The department’s investments function is engaged in 
managing the Bank’s investments in capital markets 
to achieve superior and stable returns. It continued 
to provide strong revenue generation in 2020 whilst 
ensuring a liquidity buffer for the Bank by focusing 
on liquid and diversified investments. Its goal in 2021 
is to maintain returns momentum in a challenging 
geopolitical and monetary policy environment 
aggravated by the COVID- 19. The investment  
emphasis remains on active portfolio management  
to optimize returns and ensure effective risk 
management by flexible asset allocation, hedging, and 
duration management.

45

Management Review  
of Operations continued

Risk Management
Managing risk is a fundamental part of Commercial 
Bank’s day-to-day business activities. As part of the 
overall corporate governance framework, the Board 
of Directors is responsible for overseeing a strong risk 
governance framework, including a strong risk culture, 
a well-developed risk appetite – articulated through 
the Bank’s Risk Appetite Statement – and well-defined 
responsibilities for risk management and control 
functions. The keystone of the Bank’s risk governance 
framework is the three lines of defense, namely:
1.  The first line of defense consisting of frontline 

business units and functions that create risk. These 
groups are the Bank’s primary risk-takers, responsible 
for implementing effective internal controls and 
maintaining processes for identifying, assessing, 
controlling, and mitigating the risks associated with 
their activities, consistent with the Bank’s Risk Appetite 
Statement and risk limits.

2. The second line of defense consisting of 

independent risk management, which oversees 
risk-taking and assesses risks independent of 
frontline business units and functions that create 
risk. Independent risk management complements 
the frontline units’ risk-taking activities through its 
monitoring and reporting responsibilities, including 
compliance with the Bank’s risk appetite, and is 
responsible for identifying, measuring, monitoring, 
and controlling aggregate and emerging risks 
enterprise-wide.

3. The third line of defense consisting of internal 
audit, which provides independent assurance to 
the Board on the effectiveness of governance, risk 
management, and internal controls. 

During 2020, Commercial Bank continued to enhance 
its risk systems infrastructure platforms, including 
enhancements in retail customer scorecards, 
improvements in credit approval workflow, among 
others. The Bank also implemented improvements in 
ICAAP and IRRBB, and Internal Controls over Financial 
Reporting in accordance with Qatar Financial Markets 
Authority.

Parvez Khan
EGM, Treasury and Investments

Treasury Sales
The Treasury Sales unit provides a full suite of products 
to the Bank’s customers, supporting their needs 
with regards to managing and hedging their foreign 
exchange, interest rate exposures and other asset 
classes. Commercial Bank Treasury and Investments 
department continues to grow its footprint as a leading 
market-maker in the regional rates, fixed income, 
treasury securities, and FX markets, and in providing 
market access to corporates and institutions.
In 2020, Commercial Bank Treasury and Investments 
expanded its capacity to support client needs by adding 
digital execution capabilities and risk management 
solutions, both domestically as well as cross-border, 
demonstrating its ability to provide seamless client 
solutions across multiple geographies.
Treasury is also actively engaged with Commercial 
Bank’s subsidiary in Turkey – Alternatif Bank to  
provide end-to end origination, structuring, negotiation, 
and execution.

46

•  Transparency, escalation and resolution of risk and 

control incidents and issues.

Market Risk
Market Risk is the potential loss in value or earnings 
arising from changes in market factors, and is 
managed by the Bank’s Market Risk Department with 
oversight by the Asset and Liability Committee (‘ALCO’), 
which provides specific guidelines for market risk 
management.
Commercial Bank uses value-at-risk (‘VaR’) as one of the 
measures for Market Risk. VaR measures potential loss 
using historically observed market volatility. Stressed 
VaR is used at the Bank to measure the potential for 
economic loss from extreme market events.
For assessing interest rate risk, metrics include 
earnings-at-risk (EaR), change in yield (‘DV01’) and 
economic value of equity (‘EVE’).
The results of these measures are reported to the ALCO 
and the Management Risk Committee on a regular basis.
Liquidity and Funding Management
Commercial Bank follows a balanced liquidity 
management strategy through the combined use of 
liquid asset holdings and borrowed liquidity to meet its 
liquidity needs. The Bank’s funding policies provide that:
•  Liquidity requirements be measured using several 

approaches including sources and uses, structure of 
funds, and liquidity indicators;

•  An appropriate level of assets is retained in highly 

liquid form;

•  The level of liquid assets complies with stressed 

scenario assumptions to provide for the risk of the 
Bank’s committed but undrawn lending obligations;

•  Establishment of credit lines.
Board Risk-related Committees
The two Board Committees that have primary 
responsibility and oversight for risk are:
1.  The Board Risk Committee (‘BRC’), which is 

responsible for all aspects of enterprise wide risk 
management including, but not limited to, credit risk, 
market risk, liquidity risk and operational risk. The 
BRC reviews policy on all risk issues and maintains 
oversight of all Bank risks.

2. The Board Executive Committee (‘BEC’) which is 

responsible for evaluating and granting credit facilities 
within authorised limits as per Qatar Central Bank and 
Board guidelines. 

47

Paul Gossiaux 
EGM, Chief Risk Officer

In 2021, Commercial Bank will continue to employ clear 
risk management objectives and well-established 
strategies through core risk management processes.
Credit Risk
Commercial Bank has clearly defined credit policies for 
the approval and management of credit risk. Formal 
credit standards apply to all credit risks decisions, 
with specific portfolio standards applying to all major 
lending areas. These incorporate obligor quality, income 
capacity, repayment sources, acceptable terms and 
security, and loan documentation tests.
The Bank assesses the integrity and ability of debtors 
or counterparties to meet their contracted financial 
obligations for repayment. Collateral security such 
as real estate, charge over income or assets, and 
financial securities is generally taken for business credit, 
except for government, major banks and corporate 
counterparties that are externally risk-rated and of 
strong financial standing.
Operational Risk
Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from 
inadequate or failed internal processes, people and 
systems, or from external events. It includes legal risk 
but excludes strategic and reputational risk.
The Operational Risk Management (‘ORM’) unit supports 
the achievement of Commercial Bank’s financial and 
business goals. ORM manages operational risk using 
industry standard operational risk tools. The primary 
objectives of the ORM Department are:
•  Maintenance of an effective internal control 
environment and system of internal control;

•  Demonstration of effective governance, including a 

consistent approach to operational risk management 
across the Bank;

Management Review  
of Operations continued

The Board of Directors or its subcommittees are 
regularly updated on any potential risk that the Bank may 
face.
Risk Management continues to be very well positioned 
to manage risk resulting from the increasing 
sophistication, scope and diversity of the Bank’s 
business and operations.
In summary, the governance framework, policies and 
administrative procedures and practices relating to 
risk management in Commercial Bank align well with 
global best practice, the recommendations of the Basel 
Committee and the guidelines of Qatar Central Bank.

Marketing 
The Marketing Department of Commercial Bank 
establishes and promotes the Bank’s reputation and 
brand identity to stakeholders and customers through 
effective communication using both traditional and 
digital media channels. 
Marketing works closely with the Bank’s main business 
units and supports functions to develop integrated 
marketing campaigns targeting different customer 
segments with diverse products and services based 
on ongoing research, consumer insight and return on 
investment analysis. Marketing also runs the Bank’s 
sponsorships and key events, as well as its Corporate 
Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes. 
Commercial Bank is proud of its leading position as a 
digital bank. Through exemplary thought leadership in 
digital marketing – alongside our proactive approach 
to digital media, introduction of first-to market 
technologies, quality content offering, and customer 
engagement on and through social media –  
Commercial Bank continues to dominate Qatar’s digital 
banking spaces.
Following a national vision 
Commercial Bank’s successes and achievements this 
year emerged from the Bank’s commitment towards 
Qatar National Vision 2030, which inspired us to achieve 
results, in alignment with the country’s key strategic 
messages and fulfilment of the Qatar National  
Vision 2030.

For 2020, our theme was “Qatar, my Home.” It 
represents much in just two words; Home is where we 
are happy, dedicated, at ease, and in our comfort zone. 
Inspired by that, we created a social media campaign to 
celebrate QND by creating a tile with each letter of the 
word Qatar in Arabic. And, to commemorate this special 
occasion, we decided this year to launch an original 
poem written by us. The poem, which was praised 
by many, was featured in an eye-catching hero video 
that showcases a falcon’s journey around Qatar’s most 
prominent sites, cultural elements, foods, and most 
importantly, HH the Amir. The falcon lands on a 
Qatari guy’s shoulder at the end of the video as a  
symbol of continuity of the journey that Qatar has 
started years ago, and has succeeded in achieving 
against all the odds. 
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 
Since its inception over forty-five years ago, Commercial 
Bank has been committed to supporting Qatar’s national 
development by giving back to the wider community 
through a comprehensive range of meaningful 
corporate social responsibility programmes formulated 
and implemented by the Bank’s Marketing Department.
As part of Commercial Bank CSR, and given the 
precautionary measures imposed by the State, the Bank 
launched a donation campaign among its employees, 
whereby every employee donated the amount of a 
food box that contains dates, rice, and other essential 
foods during the holy month of Ramadan. The aim of 
this campaign was for everybody to participate and take 
part in the Bank’s CSR agenda by helping impoverished 
families amidst these tough times. The participation of 
the Bank’s employees in this campaign during Ramadan 
reflects our commitment to the “one bank, one team” 
culture.
In 2020, Commercial Bank shone in Kuwait with the 
bank’s creative agency, DotSpace, receiving the Social 
Responsibility Award at the Arab Media Forum’s 8th 
Kuwait Creativity Award, for the awareness campaign 
launched by the Bank during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
“For you Qatar” is a production video Commercial Bank 
launched months ago in collaboration with DotSpace, to 

48

raise awareness on the importance of staying at home 
to limit the spread of COVID-19. The video and the song 
reflect a patriotic and nationalistic feel and convey the 
message of “staying at home is a national duty” with an 
upbeat yet serious rhythm.
Sports, health, and fitness 
At Commercial Bank, our people are our greatest asset, 
and we are committed to invest in their wellbeing. 
Improving the nation’s health is also one of the most 
important parts of the human development pillar of the 
Qatar National Vision 2030, and we promote sports and 
wellness activities for our staff not only during National 
Sports Day but throughout the year, advertising the 
message that sport and physical exercise perform a 
vital function for the community, promoting active and 
healthy lifestyles and cultivating values of dedication, 
teamwork, competition and good sportsmanship.
Since the beginning of 2020, Commercial Bank has 
embarked on a series of well-organized events and 
activities that showcased its commitment towards 
promoting sports. The Bank’s participation in Ooredoo 
Marathon was a big success, as over 130 employees 
and their families have participated, confirming that 
Commercial Bank is a big supporter of healthy and active 
lifestyle. Additionally, Commercial Bank participated in 
the celebrations of the National Sport Day with a mix 
of physical activities, staff wellness and a community 
outreach programme. 
In the same context, Commercial Bank Staff Club 
prepared an exclusive CB Olympics event for staff which 
turned out to be an intense competition, spreading a 
positive energy that represents the Bank’s character. 
The CB Olympics event was a day full of challenges 
designed to promote competition, teamwork, and boost 
employees’ morals. Commercial Bank Staff Club is keen 
on fulfilling the Bank’s obligation towards promoting 
sports and wellness activities for our staff by providing a 
selection of fitness training programmes designed and 
scheduled to run throughout the year for the benefit  
our staff. 

Hussein M Ali Al-Abdulla  
EGM, Chief Marketing Officer

Commercial Bank remains committed to enhancing 
Qatar’s sporting reputation by bringing the best 
international competitors to Qatar annually for a golf 
tournament that attracts a global audience. As a result 
of this commitment, the Bank and Qatar Golf Association 
(QGA) have signed a three-year sponsorship agreement 
to host the Qatar Masters Golf Tournament. With this 
agreement, Commercial Bank will continue to be the 
official Title Sponsor for QGA’s Qatar Masters Golf 
tournament until 2022. We are proud of being the title 
sponsor of Qatar Masters 2020 for the 15th year in  
a row which is a source of pride for Commercial Bank. 
It is the live proof of the bank’s keenness on playing an 
active role in spreading awareness to the public in the 
field sport.
In the same context, Commercial Bank entered a 
partnership agreement with Education City Golf Club 
(ECGC) to help develop the next generation of golfers in 
Qatar. Two key initiatives of the partnership were set to 
develop golf programs for the youth and lady golfers. 
Commercial Bank also introduced over 100 new women 
to golf in the private coaching area at Education  
City Golf Club. The aim is to encourage healthy 
participation in sport and develop a community of 
women golfers in Qatar.

Commercial Bank Qatar Masters 2020 Winner

Commercial Bank takes part in Ooredoo Marathon 2020

49

Management Review  
of Operations continued

In 2020, Commercial Bank and Al Shaqab, member 
of Qatar Foundation, entered for the first time into a 
three-year partnership, making the largest private 
bank in Qatar the title sponsor of the country’s premier 
equestrian competition – CHI AL SHAQAB. Commercial 
Bank CHI AL SHAQAB Presented by Longines took 
place from 27 to 29 February at the Longines Arena at 
Al Shaqab. The three-day event will saw top-ranking 
local and international riders compete in the Olympic 
disciplines of showjumping, dressage, and para 
dressage. The Bank’s sponsorship of the equestrian 
event reflects its commitment to supporting and 
promoting Qatar’s heritage and legacy.
In its efforts to enhance awareness of key health issues 
in Qatar in 2020, and in light of the restrictions due 
to COVID-19, Commercial Bank launched a digital 
campaign among its female employees and customers 
to raise awareness on breast cancer early detection. 
Under the slogan “You are strong,” Commercial Bank 
urged its staff and customers to get themselves 
checked through a comprehensive awareness 
campaign.
Educating the public and spreading awareness 
Due to Covid-19 and the lockdown imposed by the 
State of Qatar to flatten the curve of the pandemic, 

Commercial Bank took its operations digital more than 
ever. The Marketing Department went even further by 
strengthening its social media and digital presence. 
In addition to launching a set of digital products and 
services that granted customers access to their 
banking needs from home, we took to social media with 
employee-led videos under the hashtag #Qatar_is_
Calling_StayHome, offering step-by-step, multi-lingual 
guidance to all customers. Our communications covered 
general health and government advice, new branch 
guidance, mobile options for SMEs and corporate 
customers, and retail digital services ranging from 
international transfers to mobile app contactless and 
school-fee payments, and more. We left no social stone 
unturned in the quest to ensure that our customers 
stayed healthy, informed and empowered – but not 
overwhelmed – in six languages. 
As a result, the Bank has seen the greatest rate of 
engagement, number of posts and fan growth rates 
on its social channels in comparison to other banks. To 
crown its unparalleled efforts and success, Commercial 
Bank received the “Best in Social Media Marketing and 
Services” award from Global Finance, Middle East.

Commercial Bank won prestigious awards in 2020

50

2020 Awards
As we celebrate 45 years of success and innovation, 
Commercial Bank has garnered this year more than 12 
prestigious awards:
•  From Global Finance, Middle East

 “Best Consumer Digital Bank” Award
 “Best Online Product Offerings” Award
 “Most Innovative Digital Bank” Award
 “Best Online Product Offerings” Award
 “Best Online Cash Management Services” Award
 “Best Trade Finance services” Award
 “Best Mobile Banking App” Award
 “Best in Social Media Marketing and Services” Award
•  Euromoney’s “Excellence in Leadership” Award in the 

Middle East

•  The Banker’s “Innovation in Digital Banking” Award in 

the Middle East 

•  The Banker’s “Best Performing Bank” Award in Qatar
•  Finance Monthly Magazine’s CFO Award 
•  The Asian Banker’s “Best Retail Bank” Award in Qatar 
•  International Finance’s “Most Innovative Digital Bank” 
Award in Qatar and Asiamoney’s “Best Digital Bank” 
Award in Qatar

•  The Asian Banker’s “Best Cash Management and 

Transaction Bank” Award in Qatar 

•  Arab Media Forum’s “Social Responsibility Award”

Human Capital
In 2020, Commercial Bank continued to invest in its 
entrepreneurial and performance culture. Driven with 
the agility of the management teams and despite 
the exceptional situation with the global pandemic, 
Commercial Bank applied immediate measures to 
ensure business continuity, safety and care for our 
customers and employees alike including:
-  Working from home measures. As our services and 
technology infrastructure were ready to handle 
the requirement to work remotely, managing and 
reducing active branches allowed availability of our 
service.

-  Gradual phasing approach to ensure business 

continuity and team abilities to work remotely. In 
alignment with the state-wide phases, our approach 
was more reserved than the mandated, taking into 
consideration the safety of everybody. 

Jassim Al Thani  
Chief Human Capital Officer 

-  Communications, internal communications and 

updates on measures, changes and support shared 
with all employees and customers alike, enhancing the 
culture change and provide assurances to conduct.

•  Continuing with our performance management 
system and putting more focus on people, 
conversations and development; despite the 
challenging economics in 2020, the business 
delivered well and reflected with quality 
improvements towards our strategy and  
shareholders commitment;

•  Leaders development, setting new, challenging 

performance standards for our leaders and teams;

•  Despite the new limitations on sourcing, we have 

continued to attract and recruit the right talent that will 
contribute further in delivering on the Bank’s strategic 
plan;

•  In addition, the care extended with staff club activities 
during the quarantine period, talking the emotional 
and physical wellbeing;

•  Partnering with the ministries and educational 

institutions; in partnership with the Ministry of Labour 
to source national talent and provide them with career 
opportunities within the Bank Nationalization plans, 
the bank contributes to education and development 
in collaboration with universities and schools through 
events and training programs. Delivered virtually and 
on campus, student engagement events held in 2020 
provided students with key insight on how to transfer 
academic excellence into performance;

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management Review  
of Operations continued

•  Restructuring concept to all nationalization themes, 
from internal development initiatives, mentorship, 
top talent program and enhanced development 
programs to attract, retain and motivate the right 
candidates;

•  Continuing on our e-learning approaches, developed 
with the business expertise in Commercial Bank. 
Story-based e-learning courses, built on real life 
sceneries and cases, enhancing and delivering 
compliances and on demand learning.

Enhanced career experiences
In 2020, we went strong with our nationalization 
programs by building towards inner focused 
development, progressing our talents to higher 
positions and enabling them to take significant roles in 
business, supported by the newly introduced Head of 
National development team NDT, into re-establishing 
our strategic target to achieve 60% Nationalization.
Learning and development
We invest in making Commercial Bank a great place 
for learning. We target our development resources 
toward our people who are skilled in sharing knowledge 
and training others through leader-led training. This 
strengthens our creative and innovative culture. 
With on-demand learning portal, we have provided 
all compliance courses through e-learning. With other 
development initiatives, we are pursuing our study 
support initiative for staff working towards full- or part-
time study programs, focused on Qatari nationals and 
endorsed by the NDT.
Compensation and benefits
The Board of Directors regularly reviews compensation 
and benefits to ensure we pay fairly and competitively, 
reward high performers, and link incentive payments 
to the overall performance of the Bank. The Board 
of Directors also focuses on risk management by 
considering:
•  The split between salary and incentives;
•  The balance between profit, risk and the time horizons 

associated with those risks.

We disclose our remuneration policies and practices in 
our financial reports.
Human Capital operations
Newly intake in 2020: Commercial Bank has successfully 
attracted skilled and competent new graduate 
nationals across various strategic business units. These 
employees have been able to contribute significantly 
and successfully towards the Bank’s strategic goals.
Moreover, focusing on world-class and uplifting 
experiences, Commercial Bank successfully attracted 
global new key talents and leaders to accelerate its 
strategic vision, with technology and customer focus 
in mind.
Developing our nationals is one of our strategic pillars. 
Through experience and knowledge transfer, we have 
promoted new national leaders from our talent pool.

Operations
In 2020, the impact of coronavirus has been highly 
disruptive for businesses across the globe. Many have 
had their business models stressed, and demand for 
remote services has led to a permanent shift in the way 
businesses interact with customers. At Commercial 
Bank, the flexibility of our operating model allowed us to 
mobilize quickly to work remotely during the lockdown 
period, assuring client service outcomes and ensuring 
minimal disruption to the business. 
Digitalization accelerated during COVID-19 
restrictions
The COVID-19 related restrictions such as closure of 
malls, restaurants, exchange houses, and branches led 
to a spike in digital transactions. Biometric registrations 
increased by 35% and active digital users increased 
by 16% during the period. The trend of using mobile 
phones continued with mobile usage representing 90% 
of all digital transactions. Furthermore, the increase in 
digital activity is expected to be permanent with 80% 
of customers using more digital services and 70% 
expected to use branches less.

52

•  CB Pay digital wallet, making Commercial Bank the first 

bank in Qatar to release a digital wallet;

•  Household Paycard, granting many workers a remote 
digital access and allowing them to send remittances 
to their families during lockdown.

Investment in key infrastructure has provided the 
ability to scale and the flexibility to adapt to new 
technologies
This year has seen investment in key infrastructure and 
upgrading of core applications which is an important 
enabler to provide customer centric digital solutions, 
including;
•  Upgrade to data hardware giving ability to scale, 

flexibility, speed, and storage;

•  Enhanced cybersecurity, protecting customer 

personal information;

•  Capitalizing on data acquisition and management 
through data analytics and smart technologies 
(Artificial Intelligence & Algorithms);

•  Core Banking Engine Upgrade, providing greater 

flexibility to interface with new applications;

•  Customer Relation Management System Upgrade, 
which is a key system to drive customer sales, self-
service and digitization;

•  New Fraud detection system that leverages of smart 
technologies to detect fraudulent or suspicious 
transactions safeguarding customers assets.
Despite the everchanging landscape, be it from a 
pandemic, new entrants or changing technologies, 
Commercial Bank has strong flexible infrastructure 
and agile, innovative technology capability to remain 
dominant in transaction banking for years to come.

Leonie Ruth Lethbridge  
EGM, Chief Operating Officer

The Digital payment market is changing rapidly
Digital solutions provide the customer with convenient, 
fast and efficient products and services, while allowing 
Commercial Bank to automate processing end-to-
end. Globally, the market for digital payment solutions 
is evolving rapidly. Entrants such as mobile network 
operators, social networking and messaging companies 
like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Google have all 
launched their own digital wallets and payment transfer 
applications. At Commercial Bank, we are cognizant of 
market changes and opportunities and have assembled 
a world-class, agile technology capability with the ability 
to deliver digital innovation at speed. 
Key components to the strategy include:
•  A highly capable diverse team;
•  An agile delivery process;
•  Leveraging from an open architecture;
•  Proactive adoption of global Fintech solutions;
•  Enhanced data and analytics capability: This year’s 
client centric advancement in technology includes 
not only new products but also an increase in client 
engagement and client centricity;

•  Enhanced personalization through the use of the 
new customer relationship management system, 
and improvement in booking systems and branch 
processes;

53

Management Review  
of Operations continued

Internet Banking vs. Mobile Banking
83%

88%

90%

56%

44%

50% 50%

57%

43%

70%

30%

17%

12%

10%

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Internet

Mobile

Biometric Registrations (in thousands) 

35%

58%

25%

2017

2018
Registrations (in thousands)

2019

Y-o-Y increase

2020

54

Digital Active Users vs Mobile Users (in thousands)

16%

14%

17%

27%

33%

13%

50%

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Mobile Users

RIB Users

Y-o-Y increase

55

Management Review  
of Operations continued

Corporate Mobile Transactions

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr
2016

May
2017

Jun

Jul

2018

Aug
2019

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

2020

Corporate Mobile - easy to access accounts

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr
2016

May
2017

Jun

Jul

2018

Aug
2019

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

2020

30000

25000

20000

15000

10000

5000

0

20000
18000
16000
14000
12000
10000
8000
6000
4000
2000
0

56

Acknowledgement
Commercial Bank’s successful business performance 
in 2020 has only been possible through the dedication 
and hard work of our valued employees and the 
leadership team. We are also extremely grateful for 
the ongoing support and guidance provided by the 
Chairman, Vice Chairman and Managing Director and 
Members of the Board. Under their leadership, we have 
continued to achieve growth and have maintained our 
reputation of being one of Qatar’s oldest and most 
successful banks for more than four decades.
In conclusion, we would like to express our sincere 
gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad 
Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, for his visionary 
leadership of Qatar. We would also like to thank His 
Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, 
His Excellency the Minister of Finance, the Qatar Central 
Bank and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for 
their continued guidance and support of the Bank 
throughout this past year.
The Qatar Central Bank, under the leadership of His 
Excellency the Governor Sheikh Abdullah Bin Saud Al 
Thani, has shown prudence with clear and consistent 
leadership of the banking industry enabling Qatar’s 
financial sector to prosper. We are very proud of our 
success over the years and are optimistic about what the 
future will bring for Commercial Bank and for Qatar.

57

Hand-in-hand we made it 
possible to overcome 
everything and achieve the 
impossible. 

58

59

Corporate Governance

COMMERCIAL BANK’S CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
REFLECTS OUR COMMITMENT TO COMPLY WITH 
LOCAL REGULATIONS AND INTERNATIONALLY 
ACCEPTED STANDARDS INCLUDING TRANSPARENT 
DISCLOSURE FOR THE BEST INTERESTS OF OUR 
STAKEHOLDERS.
Effective governance is, at its core, simply about doing 
the right things for stakeholders. It is enabled by 
having the right checks and balances throughout the 
organization to ensure that the right things are always 
done. It comprises the processes and structures which 
affect the way an organization is directed, managed 
and monitored and its activities are reported, including: 
the elements of internal control, ethics, various risk 
functions, policies and procedures, internal audit, 
external audit and formal committees that promote 
greater transparency and facilitate efficient and effective 
management for the best interests of stakeholders.
The Board of Directors firmly believes that good 
corporate governance is fundamental in ensuring 
the proper management of Commercial Bank in the 
interests of all of our stakeholders. We recognise that 
the way we interact with stakeholders is key for the 
success of our business and the transparent disclosure 
of our governance assists investors in their investment 
decisions.

Corporate Governance developments
Following the election of the Board of Directors at 
the AGM on 23 March 2020, the Board welcomed a 
newly elected Member, HE. Mr. Bader Omar Al Dafa, 
whose skills and experience are an asset to the Board 
and Commercial Bank. During 2020, we continued to 
enhance our corporate governance practices as the 
Bank’s business evolves and regulatory requirements 
change. Commercial Bank’s Corporate Governance 
Charter and Board Committees Charter were reviewed 
an updated for increased alignment with applicable 
regulation and changes to the Bank’s business. In 
response to QCB Circular No. 25 of 2020, the Board 
of Directors and senior management underwent a 
disclosure exercise regarding identification of any  
first-degree relatives with a direct or indirect interest 
with the Bank.
During 2020, we participated in two new digital 
initiatives: the XBRL-based reporting system covering 
financial statements and non-financial disclosures 
(a joint initiative of the Qatar Stock Exchange and 
QFMA); and the QCB’s F2F digital financial sector 
correspondence system. We also participated in the 
Qatar Stock Exchange’s voluntary Environment Social 
Governance (“ESG”) disclosure initiative and our MSCI 
ESG rating was upgraded to “A”. 

60

Refer to “Board of Directors” section in the Annual 
Corporate Governance Report for further information.
Commercial Bank’s Code of Conduct provides a clear 
statement of our conduct expectations and ethical 
values, supported by our conduct and ethics standards. 
Refer to “Governance Framework” section in the Annual 
Corporate Governance Report for further information
Our governance includes a committee structure and 
a comprehensive set of corporate policies which are 
developed, reviewed and approved by the Board, the 
respective Board Committees, the Group CEO, CRO, 
and the board of directors of the Bank’s subsidiaries, in 
accordance with their respective responsibilities and 
levels of authority.
Refer to “Board of Directors” and “Board Committees” 
sections in the Annual Corporate Governance Report for 
further information.

The Board of Directors and Board Committees 
continued to operate as normal during lockdown 
restrictions as a result of COVID-19, with the Board 
fully embracing remote working technologies to allow 
for virtual meetings and the digital distribution and 
signature of documents
Corporate Governance framework
The Board understands that sound corporate 
governance principles and practices are fundamental 
to maintaining the trust of its stakeholders, which is also 
critical in business growth, sustainability and profitability.
The Board is committed to implement the corporate 
governance principles of justice, equality among 
stakeholders without discrimination, transparency and 
disclosure, while upholding the values of corporate 
social responsibility and acting in the public interest of 
Commercial Bank and stakeholders over their personal 
interests, as well as performing their duties, tasks and 
functions in good faith, integrity, honour and sincerity.
The implementation of these principles is driven by a 
qualified Board aided by a seasoned and experienced 
Executive Management team. The Board ensures that 
the Bank adheres to these corporate governance 
principles in its day-to-day activities at all times.

61

Corporate Governance  
continued

Complying with rules and regulations
We fully adhere to the principles set out in the QCB 
Corporate Governance Guidelines and to the provisions 
of the QFMA Corporate Governance Code as at  
31 December 2020.
The detailed Annual Corporate Governance Report 
2020 is an attachment to this Annual Report, forms 
an integral part of it, and is presented to shareholders 
for approval at the Bank’s AGM in 2021. The Annual 
Corporate Governance Report 2020 can also be viewed 
on Commercial Bank’s website at www.cbq.qa

The main rules, procedures and practical application 
of Commercial Bank’s governance are contained in 
the Bank’s Corporate Governance Charter, Board of 
Directors Charter and Board Committees Charter. These 
charters reflect Commercial Bank’s long-standing ethical 
governance practices and the regulatory requirements 
mandated by:
•  guidelines and instructions issued by the Qatar 

Central Bank on 26 July 2015 by virtue of Circular No. 
68/2015 (QCB Corporate Governance Guidelines);
•  the Commercial Companies Law promulgated by Law 

No. 11 of 2015 (CCL); and

•  the Governance Code for Companies and Legal 

Entities Listed on the Main Market issued by Qatar 
Financial Markets Authority pursuant to Decision No. 5 
of 2016 (QFMA Corporate Governance Code).
These charters also follow the recommendations of 
international best practice for corporate governance 
developed by leading international frameworks.

62

 Consolidated Financial Statements
31 December 2020

63

Independent Auditor’s Report

To the Shareholders of The Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C.)

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements

Opinion
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of The Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C.) (the “Bank”) and its subsidiaries 
(together referred to as the “Group”), which comprise the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 December 
2020, and the consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of 
changes in equity and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the consolidated financial 
statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated 
financial position of the Group as at 31 December 2020, and its consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash 
flows  for  the  year  then  ended  in  accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  (IFRSs)  and  the  applicable 
provisions of Qatar Central Bank regulations.

Basis for opinion
We  conducted  our  audit  in  accordance  with  International  Standards  on  Auditing  (ISAs).  Our  responsibilities  under  those 
standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements section of 
our report. We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants 
(including International Independence Standards) (IESBA Code) together with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our 
audit of the consolidated financial statements in the State of Qatar, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in 
accordance with these requirements and the IESBA Code. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the consolidated 
financial statements of the current year. These matters where addressed in the context of our audit of the consolidated financial 
statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. For 
each matter below, our description of how our audit addressed the matter is provided in that context.

We  have  fulfilled  the  responsibilities  described  in  the  Auditor’s  responsibilities  for  the  audit  of  the  consolidated  financial 
statements section of our report, including in relation to these matters. Accordingly, our audit included the performance of 
procedures  designed  to  respond  to  our  assessment  of  the  risks  of  material  misstatement  of  the  consolidated  financial 
statements. The results of our audit procedures, including the procedures performed to address the matters below, provide 
the basis for our audit opinion on the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

64

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

Key audit matters (continued)

Key audit matter

1. Impairment of loans and advances to customers 

The process of estimating Expected Credit Losses (ECL) on 
credit risk associated with loans and advances in accordance 
with IFRS 9 Financial instruments (IFRS 9) involves complexity 
and significant judgement.

it  have 

impacted 

COVID-19 pandemic and the regulatory payment holidays 
associated  with 
the  management 
determination  of  the  ECL  as  they  increased  the  level  of 
uncertainty  associated  with  the  management  judgement, 
which may result in outputs significantly different from the 
future credit losses and staging of the customers.

IFRS 9 requires use of the ECL model for the purposes of 
calculating impairment provision. Due to the complexity of 
requirements  under  IFRS  9,  significance  of  judgements 
applied and the Group’s exposure to loans and advances 
forming a major portion of the Group’s assets, the audit of 
ECL for loans and advances is a key audit matter.

As  at  31  December  2020,  the  Group’s  gross  loans  and 
advances amounted to QR 100,008 million and the related 
allowances for impairment amounted to QR 4,397 million, 
comprising  QR  1,521  million  of  ECL  against  Stage  1  and  2 
exposures and QR 2,876 million against exposures classified 
under Stage 3.

The basis of calculation of ECL is presented in the summary 
of significant accounting policies and notes 4(b) and 10 to 
the consolidated financial statements.

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Our audit approach included testing the controls associated 
with  the  relevant  processes  for  estimating  the  ECL  and 
performing substantive procedures on such estimates. We 
involved our internal specialist where their specific expertise 
was required. Our key audit procedures were as follows:
•  We obtained understanding of the Group’s ECL policy 
and the design of the controls and tested the operating 
effectiveness  of  relevant  controls  and  governance 
around it.

•  We have checked the completeness of the data used as 
input for the ECL model and the mathematical accuracy 
through the model processes.

•  We assessed:

• 

• 

• 

• 

the  Group’s  ECL  policy  including  the  criteria  of 
staging and significant increase in credit risk with the 
requirements of IFRS 9, considering the regulatory 
guidelines to address the COVID-19 pandemic;
the Group’s forward-looking economic variables by 
comparing  them  on  a  sample  basis  against 
supporting evidences, where applicable;
the  reasonableness  of  changes  made  to  the 
the  effect  of 
economic  scenarios 
COVID-19; and
the  basis  of  determination  of  the  management 
overlays  considering  the  impact  of  the  COVID-19 
global  pandemic  against  the  requirements  of  the 
Group’s  ECL  policy  and  guidance  issued  by  the 
regulator.

to  reflect 

• 

For a sample of exposures, we performed procedures 
to evaluate:
• 

appropriateness of exposure at default, probability 
of default and loss given default in the calculation of 
ECL;
timely identification of exposures with a significant 
increase  in  credit  risk  and  appropriateness  of  the 
Group’s staging; and
the ECL calculation.

• 

• 

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report continued

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

Key audit matters (continued)

Key audit matter

1. Impairment  of  loans  and  advances  to  customers 

(continued)

2. Impairment of investments in associates

The determination of recoverable amounts of the Group’s 
investments in associates relies on management’s estimates 
of future cash flows and their judgment with respect to the 
associates’  performance.  Due 
the  uncertainty  of 
forecasting and discounting future cash flows, the level of 
management’s judgement involved and the significance of 
the  Group’s  investment  in  associates,  this  audit  area  is 
considered as a key audit matter.

to 

in 
As  at  31  December  2020,  the  Group’s 
associates  amounted  to  QR  3,109  million.  Refer  to  the 
significant  accounting  policies  and  note 
the 
consolidated financial statements.

investment 

12 

to 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

•  Assessed  the  impairment  allowance  for  individually 
impaired loans and advances (stage 3) in accordance 
with IFRS 9.

•  Assessing  the  adequacy  of  the  Group’s  disclosures  in 
relation to IFRS 9 by reference to the requirements of 
the  relevant  financial  reporting  standards  and  QCB 
regulations.

Our audit procedures focused on the following key areas:

•  We obtained the calculation of recoverable amounts of 

the Group’s investments in associates.

•  With the assistance of our own specialists, we assessed 
the assumptions and compared the estimates used to 
externally  available  industry,  economic  and  financial 
data and methodologies used by the management to 
determine the recoverable amount of the investments 
in associates.

•  We assessed the forecasts of future cash flows prepared 

by management.

•  Discussions with management on the performance of 

the associates and their future outlook.

Other information
Other information consists of the information included in the Group’s annual report (the “Annual Report”), other than the 
Group’s  consolidated  financial  statements  and  our  auditor’s  report  thereon.  Management  is  responsible  for  the  other 
information. The Group’s 2020 Annual Report is expected to be made available to us after the date of this auditor’s report. Our 
opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of 
assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in 
doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our 
knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

66

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

Responsibilities of the management and the Board of Directors for the consolidated financial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance 
with IFRSs and the applicable provisions of Qatar Central Bank regulations, and for such internal control as the management 
determines  is  necessary  to  enable  the  preparation  of  the  consolidated  financial  statements  that  are  free  from  material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as 
a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting 
unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

The Board of Directors are responsible for overseeing the Group’s financial reporting process.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free 
from  material  misstatement,  whether  due  to  fraud  or  error,  and  to  issue  an  auditor’s  report  that  includes  our  opinion. 
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs will 
always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and considered material if, 
individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of user taken on the 
basis of these consolidated financial statements.

As  part  of  an  audit  in  accordance  with  ISAs,  we  exercise  professional  judgement  and  maintain  professional  skepticism 
throughout the audit. We also:

• 

Identify and assess the risk of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or 
error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is 
higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, 
or override of internal control.

•  Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in 
the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.

•  Evaluate  the  appropriateness  of  accounting  policies  used  and  reasonableness  of  accounting  estimates  and  related 

disclosures made by management.

•  Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit 
evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on 
the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw 
attention in auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosure is 
inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our 
auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.

•  Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements, including the disclosures, 
and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that 
achieves fair presentation.

67

Independent Auditor’s Report continued

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements (continued)
•  Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within 
the Group to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision 
and performance of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with the Board of Directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and 
significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide the Board of Directors with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding 
independence, and communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our 
independence, and where applicable, actions taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied.

From the matters communicated with the Board of Directors, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the 
audit of the consolidated financial statements of the current year and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these 
matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosures about the matter or when, in extremely 
rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences 
of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements
We have obtained all the information and explanations, which we considered necessary for the purpose of our audit. We 
confirm that we are not aware of any contraventions by the Bank of its Articles of Association and the amendments thereto, the 
applicable provisions of Qatar Central Bank Law No. 13 of 2012 and of the Qatar Commercial Companies Law No. 11 of 2015, 
during  the  financial  year  that  would  have  had  a  material  adverse  effect  on  the  Group’s  consolidated  financial  position  or 
performance as at and for the year ended 31 December 2020.

Ahmed Sayed
of Ernst & Young
Qatar Auditors Registry Number 326

Doha - State of Qatar
Date: 15 February 2021

68

Consolidated Statement of 
Financial Position

As at 31 December

Notes

2020

ASSETS
Cash and balances with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment securities
Investment in associates and a joint arrangement
Property and equipment
Intangible assets
Other assets
TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES
Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
TOTAL LIABILITIES

8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15

16
17
18
19
20

8,278,537
10,401,014
96,698,098
25,778,211
3,116,557
3,158,264
174,830
6,000,204
153,605,715

20,006,985
75,789,543
13,107,134
14,125,676
8,405,896
131,435,234

QAR ‘000s
2019

6,075,044
12,396,433
88,009,448
26,844,226
4,021,239
2,853,712
236,377
7,100,005
147,536,484

22,530,782
76,296,592
9,524,590
12,043,167
5,385,126
125,780,257

EQUITY
4,047,254
Share capital
9,841,333
Legal reserve
26,500
General reserve
1,421,236
Risk reserve
600,094
Fair value reserve
(38,860)
Treasury shares
(1,946,677)
Foreign currency translation reserve
859,893
Other reserves
1,283,920
Revaluation reserve
1,661,524
Retained earnings
TOTAL EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO EQUITY HOLDERS OF THE BANK
17,756,217
10
Non-controlling interests
4,000,000
Instruments eligible for additional capital
TOTAL EQUITY
21,756,227
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
147,536,484
The consolidated financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 27 January 2021 and were signed on its 
behalf by:

4,047,254
9,871,972
26,500
2,037,236
1,000,301
-
(2,235,107)
557,273
1,287,569
1,577,474
18,170,472
9
4,000,000
22,170,481
153,605,715

21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21

21

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani
Chairman

Mr. Omar Hussain Alfardan
Managing Director

Mr. Joseph Abraham
Group Chief Executive Officer

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

69

Consolidated Statement of Income 

For the year ended 31 December

Notes

2020

Interest income
Interest expense
Net interest income

Fee and commission income
Fee and commission expense
Net fee and commission income

Net foreign exchange gain
Net (loss) / income from investment securities
Other operating income
Net operating income

Staff costs
Depreciation
Amortization of intangible assets
Net impairment (losses) / reversals on investment securities
Net impairment losses on loans and advances to customers
Net impairment losses on other financial assets
Impairment on investment in an associate
Other provisions
Other expenses
Profit before share of results of associates and a joint arrangement
Share of results of associates and a joint arrangement
Profit before tax
Income tax expense
Profit for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the bank
Non-controlling interests
Profit for the year

Earnings per share
Basic/diluted earnings per share (QAR)

24
25

26
27

28
29
30

31
13
14

10

32

12

5,671,377
(2,571,242)
3,100,135

1,110,095
(299,246)
810,849

296,351
(23,447)
53,245
4,237,133

(632,599)
(140,345)
(58,395)
(32,041)
(836,386)
(115,124)
(591,242)
(40,177)
(265,038)
1,525,786
(210,006)
1,315,780
(14,566)
1,301,214

1,301,213
1
1,301,214

QAR ‘000s

2019

6,795,410
(3,832,227)
2,963,183

1,289,220
(374,374)
914,846

281,045
68,993
118,578
4,346,645

(796,352)
(149,994)
(55,023)
6,797
(594,427)
(66,108)
(413,881)
-
(226,644)
2,051,013
(6,799)
2,044,214
(23,173)
2,021,041

2,021,040
1
2,021,041

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

70

33

0.27

0.44

Consolidated Statement of 
Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December

Note

2020

QAR ‘000s

2019

Profit for the year

1,301,214

2,021,041

Other comprehensive income for the year:
Items that are, or may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss:
Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operation
Share of other comprehensive income of investment in associates  
and a joint arrangement
Net movement in cash flow hedges-effective portion of changes  
in fair value
Net change in fair value of investments in debt securities  
designated at FVOCI:

Net change in fair value
Net amount transferred to consolidated statement of income
Items that may not be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss:
Net change in fair value of equity investments designated at FVOCI
Foreign currency translation differences
Share of other comprehensive income of investment in associates  
and a joint arrangement
Other comprehensive income for the year

22

22

22

22

22
22

22

(288,430)

1,214

59,634

443,081
(3,519)

43,104
(131,272)

(12,035)

111,777

(129,811)

28,059

9,053

663,769
(9,091)

(34,072)
-

(6,008)

521,899

Total comprehensive income for the year

1,412,991

2,542,940

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the bank
Non-controlling interests
Total comprehensive income for the year

1,412,990
1
1,412,991

2,542,939
1
2,542,940

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

71

Consolidated Statement of 
Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 December 2020

Notes

Share  
capital

Legal 
 reserve

General 
reserve

Risk  
reserve

Fair value 
reserve

Balance as at 1 January 2020

4,047,254 9,841,333

26,500 1,421,236 600,094

(38,860)

(1,946,677)

859,893

1,283,920 1,661,524

17,756,217

10 4,000,000 21,756,227

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-
-
-
616,000

-
400,207
400,207
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-

-
26,500 2,037,236 1,000,301

-

Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year
Transfer to legal reserve
Transfer to risk reserve
FVOCI instrument loss transferred to 
Retained earnings
Dividend for instruments eligible for 
additional capital
Net movement in revaluation and other 
reserves
Provision for Sports and Social Activities 
Support Fund
Movement in treasury shares
Tax Adjustment
Transactions with equity holders, 
recognised directly in equity
Contributions by and distributions to 
equity holders of the bank:
Dividends for the year 2019
Total contributions by and distributions 
to equity holders of the bank
Net movement in non-controlling interests
Balance as at 31 December 2020

21

21

21

21

23

21

21

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-
-
6,717
-

-

-

-

-

23,922
-

-

-

-
-
4,047,254 9,871,972

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

72

Foreign 

currency 

translation 

reserve

Treasury 

shares

Other 

reserves

Revaluation 

reserve

Retained 

earnings

QAR ‘000s

Total equity 

attributable 

to equity 

holders of 

the Bank

Instruments 

eligible for 

additional 

Non-

controlling 

interests

capital

Total equity

(302,620)

3,649

302,620

3,649

(288,430)

(288,430)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

38,860

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,301,213

1,301,213

(6,717)

(616,000)

-

-

1,301,213

111,777

1,412,990

-

-

-

(223,000)

(223,000)

(32,530)

(32,530)

-

(185)

62,782

(185)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(809,451)

(809,451)

(809,451)

(809,451)

-

-

(2)

1

-

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,301,214

111,777

1,412,991

-

-

-

(223,000)

3,649

(32,530)

62,782

(185)

(809,451)

(809,451)

(2)

(2,235,107)

557,273

1,287,569

1,577,474 18,170,472

9 4,000,000 22,170,481

Balance as at 1 January 2020

4,047,254 9,841,333

26,500 1,421,236 600,094

(38,860)

(1,946,677)

859,893

1,283,920 1,661,524

17,756,217

10 4,000,000 21,756,227

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Treasury 
shares

Other 
reserves

Revaluation 
reserve

Retained 
earnings

Total equity 
attributable 
to equity 
holders of 
the Bank

Non-
controlling 
interests

Instruments 
eligible for 
additional 
capital

QAR ‘000s

Total equity

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

38,860
-

-

-

-
-

-
(288,430)
(288,430)
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

1,301,213
-
1,301,213
(6,717)
(616,000)

1,301,213
111,777
1,412,990
-
-

-

-

(223,000)

(223,000)

(302,620)

3,649

302,620

3,649

-

-
-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

(32,530)

(32,530)

-
(185)

62,782
(185)

(809,451)

(809,451)

(809,451)

(809,451)

1
-
1
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

1,301,214
111,777
1,412,991
-
-

-

(223,000)

3,649

(32,530)

62,782
(185)

(809,451)

(809,451)

-
(2,235,107)

-
557,273

-
1,287,569

-

-
1,577,474 18,170,472

(2)
(2)
-
9 4,000,000 22,170,481

For the year ended 31 December 2020

Notes

Share  

capital

Legal 

 reserve

General 

reserve

Risk  

reserve

Fair value 

reserve

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transfer to legal reserve

Transfer to risk reserve

FVOCI instrument loss transferred to 

Retained earnings

Dividend for instruments eligible for 

additional capital

Net movement in revaluation and other 

reserves

Support Fund

Provision for Sports and Social Activities 

Movement in treasury shares

Tax Adjustment

Transactions with equity holders, 

recognised directly in equity

Contributions by and distributions to 

equity holders of the bank:

Dividends for the year 2019

Total contributions by and distributions 

to equity holders of the bank

Net movement in non-controlling interests

Balance as at 31 December 2020

21

21

21

21

23

21

21

400,207

400,207

6,717

616,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

23,922

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,047,254 9,871,972

26,500 2,037,236 1,000,301

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

73

Consolidated Statement of 
Changes in Equity continued

For the year ended 31 December 2019

Notes

Share  
capital

Legal 
 reserve

General 
reserve

Risk  
reserve

Fair value 
reserve

Balance as at 1 January 2019

4,047,254

9,745,152

26,500

886,151

(96,333)

(179,507)

(1,816,866)

959,764

1,283,920

1,000,413

15,856,448

11 4,000,000

19,856,459

Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year
Transfer to legal reserve
Transfer to risk reserve
FVOCI instrument loss transferred to 
Retained earnings
Dividend for Instruments eligible for 
additional capital
Net movement in other reserve
Provision for Sports and Social Activities 
Support Fund
Movement in treasury shares
Transactions with equity holders, recognised 
directly in equity
Contributions by and distributions to equity 
holders of the bank:
Dividends for the year 2018
Total contributions by and distributions to 
equity holders of the bank
Net movement in non-controlling interests
Balance as at 31 December 2019

21

21

21

21

23

21

21

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-
-
8,803
-

-

-

-

-

87,378

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-
-
-
535,085

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
651,710
651,710
-
-

44,717

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
4,047,254

-
9,841,333

-
26,500

-
1,421,236

-
600,094

(38,860)

(1,946,677)

859,893

1,283,920

1,661,524

17,756,217

10 4,000,000

21,756,227

Foreign 

currency 

translation 

reserve

Treasury 

shares

Other 

reserves

Revaluation 

reserve

Retained 

earnings

QAR ‘000s

Total equity 

attributable to 

equity holders 

of the Bank

Non-

controlling 

interests

Instruments 

eligible for 

additional 

capital

Total equity

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(129,811)

(129,811)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

140,647

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,021,040

2,021,040

-

521,899

2,021,040

2,542,939

(8,803)

(525,000)

(44,717)

10,085

(240,000)

(240,000)

(50,526)

(50,526)

16,334

244,359

-

-

-

-

(607,088)

(607,088)

(607,088)

(607,088)

-

(2)

1

-

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,021,041

521,899

2,542,940

10,085

(240,000)

(50,526)

244,359

-

-

-

(607,088)

(607,088)

(2)

(99,871)

99,871

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

74

For the year ended 31 December 2019

Notes

Share  

capital

Legal 

 reserve

General 

reserve

Risk  

reserve

Fair value 

reserve

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transfer to legal reserve

Transfer to risk reserve

FVOCI instrument loss transferred to 

Retained earnings

Dividend for Instruments eligible for 

additional capital

Net movement in other reserve

Provision for Sports and Social Activities 

Support Fund

Movement in treasury shares

Transactions with equity holders, recognised 

directly in equity

Contributions by and distributions to equity 

holders of the bank:

Dividends for the year 2018

Total contributions by and distributions to 

equity holders of the bank

Net movement in non-controlling interests

Balance as at 31 December 2019

21

21

21

21

23

21

21

8,803

535,085

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

87,378

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

651,710

651,710

44,717

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Balance as at 1 January 2019

4,047,254

9,745,152

26,500

886,151

(96,333)

(179,507)

(1,816,866)

959,764

1,283,920

1,000,413

15,856,448

11 4,000,000

19,856,459

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Treasury 
shares

Other 
reserves

Revaluation 
reserve

Retained 
earnings

Total equity 
attributable to 
equity holders 
of the Bank

Non-
controlling 
interests

Instruments 
eligible for 
additional 
capital

QAR ‘000s

Total equity

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

140,647

-

-

-
(129,811)
(129,811)
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

(99,871)

-

-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,021,040
-
2,021,040
(8,803)
(525,000)

(44,717)

2,021,040
521,899
2,542,939
-
10,085

-

(240,000)

(240,000)

99,871

-

(50,526)

(50,526)

16,334

244,359

(607,088)

(607,088)

(607,088)

(607,088)

1
-
1
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,047,254

9,841,333

26,500

1,421,236

600,094

-
(38,860)

-
(1,946,677)

-
859,893

-
1,283,920

-
1,661,524

-
17,756,217

(2)
-
10 4,000,000

2,021,041
521,899
2,542,940
-
10,085

-

(240,000)

-

(50,526)

244,359

(607,088)

(607,088)

(2)
21,756,227

75

Consolidated Statement  
of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 December

Notes

2020

QAR ‘000s
2019

13

29

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
Adjustments for:

Net impairment losses on loans and advances to customers
Net impairment losses / (reversal) on investment securities
Net impairment losses on other financial assets
Depreciation
Amortization of intangible assets and transaction costs
Gain on sale of treasury shares
Net loss / (income) from investment securities
Other provisions
Gain on disposal of property and equipment
Impairment on investment in an associate
Share of results of associates and a joint arrangement

Operating profit before working capital changes
Working capital changes

Change in due from banks
Change in loans and advances to customers
Change in other assets
Change in due to banks
Change in customer deposits
Change in other liabilities
Contribution to social and sports fund

Net cash flows (used in) / from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Acquisition of investment securities
Proceeds from sale of treasury shares
Dividend received from associates and a joint arrangement
Proceeds from sale/maturity of investment securities
Acquisition of property and equipment and intangible assets
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment and other assets
Net cash flows from / (used in) investing activities

12

14&15

1,315,780

2,044,214

836,386
32,041
115,124
140,345
87,904
(23,922)
27,111
40,177
-
591,242
210,006
3,372,194

213,462
(11,710,184)
1,016,089
(2,635,334)
1,430,497
2,745,022
(50,526)
(5,618,780)

(4,725,866)
62,782
92,614
5,567,499
(125,311)
150
871,868

594,427
(6,797)
66,108
149,994
90,926
(87,378)
(64,642)
-
3,902
413,881
6,799
3,211,434

(3,845,259)
(5,821,742)
(2,341,566)
10,167,792
5,702,956
490,037
(41,580)
7,522,072

(8,620,481)
228,025
93,072
4,255,059
(157,359)
6,801
(4,194,883)

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

76

Consolidated Statement  
of Cash Flows continued

For the year ended 31 December

Notes

2020

Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
Repayment of debt securities
Repayment of other borrowings
Proceeds from other borrowings
Payment of Lease Liability
Payment on Coupon of instrument eligible for additional Tier 1 Capital
Dividends paid
Net cash flows from / (used in) financing activities
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Effect of exchange rate fluctuation
Cash and cash equivalents as at 1 January
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

18
18
19
19

35

5,452,640
(2,157,982)
(6,073,532)
8,922,233
(34,074)
(223,000)
(809,451)
5,076,834
329,922
136,073
10,055,971
10,521,966

QAR ‘000s
2019

3,486,978
(9,932,780)
(3,735,723)
7,793,321
(39,499)
(240,000)
(607,088)
(3,274,791)
52,398
19,027
9,984,546
10,055,971

Net cash flows from interest and dividend from operating activities:
Interest paid
Interest received
Dividend received

2,808,966
5,355,351
3,664

3,829,417
6,916,197
4,350

The attached notes 1 to 39 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

77

Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 

QAR ‘000s

1.  REPORTING ENTITY

The Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C.) (the “Bank”) is an entity domiciled in the State of Qatar and was incorporated in 1974 as a 
public shareholding company under Emiri Decree No.73 of 1974. The commercial registration number of the Bank is 150. 
The address of the Bank’s registered office is PO Box 3232, Doha, State of Qatar. The consolidated financial statements of 
the Bank comprise the Bank and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”). The Group is primarily engaged in 
conventional banking, brokerage services and the credit card business and operates through its head office, branches 
and subsidiaries.

The principal subsidiaries of the Group are as follows:

Name of subsidiary

Country of 
incorporation

Capital of the 
subsidiary

Activity of the 
subsidiary

Percentage of 
ownership

Alternatifbank A.S.
Commercial  Bank  Financial 
Services L.L.C.
CBQ Finance Limited

2.  BASIS OF PREPARATION

Turkey
Qatar

TRY 2,038,390,000 Banking services
QAR 100,000,000

Bermuda

US$ 1,000

2020
100%
100%

2019
100%
100%

100%

100%

Brokerage 
services
Debt  issuance  for 
the Bank

(a)  Statement of compliance

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards 
(“IFRS”) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and the applicable provisions of the Qatar Central 
Bank (“QCB”) regulations.

The Group presents its consolidated statement of financial position broadly in the order of liquidity. An analysis regarding 
recovery or settlement of assets/liabilities within twelve months after the end of the reporting date (“current”) and more 
than twelve months after the reporting date (“non-current”) is presented in Note 4(c) (iii).

(b)  Basis of measurement

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for the following assets and 
liabilities that are measured at fair value:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

derivative financial instruments;
investments measured at fair value through profit or loss (‘FVTPL’);
other financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss (‘FVTPL’);
financial investment measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (‘FVOCI’);
land and buildings; and
the carrying values of recognized assets and liabilities that are hedged items in quantifying fair value hedges, and 
otherwise carried at amortized cost, are adjusted to record changes in fair value attributable to the risks that are 
being hedged.

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.  BASIS OF PREPARATION (continued)

(c)  Functional and presentation currency

These  consolidated  financial  statements  are  presented  in  Qatari  Riyals  (“QAR”),  which  is  the  Bank’s  functional  and 
presentation currency. Except as otherwise indicated, financial information presented in QAR has been rounded to the 
nearest thousand.

(d)  Use of estimates and judgments

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS and QCB regulations requires management 
to  make  judgements,  estimates  and  assumptions  that  affect  the  application  of  accounting  policies  and  the  reported 
amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates  and  underlying  assumptions  are  reviewed  on  an  ongoing  basis.  Revisions  to  accounting  estimates  are 
recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised and in any future periods affected.

Information  about  significant  areas  of  estimation  uncertainty  and  critical  judgements  in  applying  accounting  policies  
that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements are described in 
Note 5.

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated 
financial statements, and have been applied consistently by the Group entities.

(a)  New standards, amendments and interpretations

  New standards, amendments and interpretations effective from 1 January 2020

The following standards, amendments and interpretations, which became effective as of 1 January 2020, are relevant to 
the Group:

Amendments to References to Conceptual Framework in IFRS Standards 
Definition of Material (Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8) 
Definition of a Business (Amendments to IFRS 3) 
Interest Rate Benchmark Reform - Phase 1 (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7) 

1 January 2020
1 January 2020
1 January 2020
1 January 2020

  Standards issued but not yet effective

A number of standards and amendments to standards are issued but not yet effective and the Group has not adopted 
these in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements. The below standards may have a significant impact on 
the  Group’s  consolidated  financial  statements,  however,  the  Group  is  currently  evaluating  the  impact  of  these  new 
standards. The Group will adopt these new standards on the respective effective dates.

COVID-19-Related Rent Concessions (Amendment to IFRS 16) 
Interest Rate Benchmark Reform – Phase 2 (Amendments to IFRS 4, IFRS 7, IFRS 9, IFRS 16 and IAS 39) 
Onerous Contracts – Cost of Fulfilling a Contract (Amendments to IAS 37) 
Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2018 – 2020 
Property, Plant and Equipment: Proceeds before Intended Use (Amendments to IAS 16) 
Reference to the Conceptual Framework (Amendments to IFRS 3) 
Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current (Amendments to IAS 1) 
IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts and amendments to IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts 

1 January 2021
1 January 2021
1 January 2022
1 January 2022
1 January 2022
1 January 2022
1 January 2023
1 January 2023

79

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(b)  Basis of consolidation

(i)  Business combination

The Group applies the acquisition method to account for business combinations. The consideration transferred for 
the acquisition of a subsidiary is the fair value of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred to the former owners of 
the acquiree and the equity interests issued by the Group. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any 
asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities 
and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition 
date.

If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date carrying value of the acquirer’s previously held 
equity interest in the acquiree is re-measured to fair value at the acquisition date; any gains or losses arising from 
such re-measurement are recognised in profit or loss.

Any  contingent  consideration  to  be  transferred  by  the  Group  is  recognised  at  fair  value  at  the  acquisition  date. 
Subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration that is deemed to be an asset or liability is 
recognised  in  accordance  with  IFRS  9  either  in  profit  or  loss  or  as  a  change  to  other  comprehensive  income. 
Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not re-measured, and its subsequent settlement is accounted 
for within equity.

The excess of the consideration transferred of any non-controlling interest and the acquisition-date fair value of any 
previous equity interest over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the total of 
consideration transferred, non-controlling interest recognised and previously held interest measured is less than the 
fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired in the case of a bargain purchase, the difference is recognised 
directly in the statement of income.

Transaction costs are expensed as incurred, except if they are related to the issue of debt or equity securities.

(ii)  Non-controlling interests (NCI)

In  accordance  with  IFRS  3R,  for  each  business  combination,  the  acquirer  can  measure,  at  the  acquisition  date, 
components  of  NCI  in  the  acquired  business  that  represent  ownership  interests  and  entitle  its  holders  to  a 
proportionate share of the entity’s net assets in the event of liquidation at either:

(a) 
(b) 

fair value on the acquisition date; or
the present ownership instruments’ proportionate share in the recognised amounts of the acquiree’s identifiable 
net assets.

NCI is measured only on initial recognition. The Group measures the NCI at fair value, including its share of goodwill.

(iii)  Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. The Group ‘controls’ an investee if it is exposed to, or has rights to, 
variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power 
over the investee. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from 
the date on which control commences until the date when control ceases.

The accounting policies of subsidiaries are consistent with the accounting policies adopted by the Group.

80

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(b)  Basis of consolidation (continued)

(iv)  Transactions eliminated on consolidation

Intra-group balances, and income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, are eliminated in preparing 
the consolidated financial statements.

(v)  Associates and joint arrangements

Associates  and  joint  arrangements  are  entities  over  which  the  Group  has  significant  influence  but  not  control, 
generally accompanying a shareholding of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights.

Investments in associates and joint arrangements are accounted for by the equity method of accounting and are 
initially recognised at cost (including transaction costs directly related to acquisition of investment in associates and 
joint  arrangement).  The  Group’s  investment  in  associates  and  joint  arrangements  includes  goodwill  (net  of  any 
accumulated impairment loss) identified on acquisition.

The Group’s share of its associates’ and joint arrangement’s post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the 
consolidated income statement; its share of post-acquisition reserve movements is recognised in reserves. The 
cumulative  post-acquisition  movements  are  adjusted  against  the  carrying  amount  of  the  investment.  When  the 
Group’s share of losses in an associates and joint arrangements equals or exceeds its interest in the associates and 
joint arrangements, including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless 
it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associates and joint arrangement.

The  Bank  performs  impairment  assessment  of  investment  in  associates  on  an  annual  basis,  or  changes  in 
circumstances  indicate  a  potential  impairment.  Impairment  testing  involves  calculating  the  value  in  use  (VIU)  by 
estimating the present values of future cash flows based on management’s estimates of future earnings available to 
ordinary shareholders and observable market inputs. Where the carrying amount exceeds the VIU, an impairment 
would be recognized in the statement of income and the carrying amount will be reduced.

Intergroup gains on transactions between the Group and its associates and joint arrangement are eliminated to the 
extent of the Group’s interest in the associates and joint arrangements. Intergroup losses are also eliminated unless 
the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

Associates’ financial statements are being prepared using similar accounting policies and period end as the parent.

(vi)  Funds management

The Group manages and administers assets held in unit trusts and other investment vehicles on behalf of investors. 
The financial statements of these entities are not included in these consolidated financial statements except when the 
Group controls the entity. Information about the Group’s funds management is set out in Note 37.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(c)  Foreign currency

(i)  Foreign currency transactions and balances

Foreign  currency  transactions  that  require  settlement  in  a  foreign  currency  are  translated  into  the  respective 
functional currencies of the operations at the spot exchange rates at the date of the transactions.

Monetary  assets  and  liabilities  denominated  in  foreign  currencies  at  the  reporting  date  are  translated  into  the 
functional currency at the spot exchange rate at that date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign 
currencies that are measured at fair value are retranslated into the functional currency at the spot exchange rate at 
the  date  that  the  fair  value  was  determined.  Non-monetary  assets  and  liabilities  that  are  measured  in  terms  of 
historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction.

Foreign currency differences resulting from the settlement of foreign currency transactions and arising on translation 
at period end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in 
profit or loss.

(ii)  Foreign operations

The  results  and  financial  position  of  all  the  Group’s  entities  that  have  a  functional  currency  different  from  the 
presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

- 

- 

- 

Assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the 
reporting date;
Income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average 
is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in 
which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and
All resulting exchange differences are recognised in other comprehensive income.

Exchange differences arising from the above process are reported in equity and NCI as ‘foreign currency translation 
reserve’.

When the Group has any foreign operation that is disposed of, or partially disposed of, such exchange differences are 
recognised  in  the  consolidated  income  statement  as  part  of  the  gain  or  loss  on  sale.  Goodwill  and  fair  value 
adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and 
translated at the closing rate.

When the settlement of a monetary item receivable from or payable to a foreign operation is neither planned nor 
likely in the foreseeable future, foreign exchange gains and losses arising from such a monetary item are considered 
to form part of the net investment in the foreign operation and are recognised in other comprehensive income, and 
presented in the foreign exchange translation reserve in equity.

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities

(i)  Recognition and initial measurement

The Group initially recognises loans and advances to customers, due from / to banks, customer deposits, debt 
securities and other borrowings on the date at which they are originated. All other financial assets and liabilities are 
initially  recognised  on  the  trade  date  at  which  the  Group  becomes  a  party  to  the  contractual  provisions  of  the 
instrument.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(ii)  Classification

Financial assets
On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at: amortised cost, FVOCI or FVTPL.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at 
FVTPL:

• 
• 

The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and
The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of 
principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

A debt instrument is measured at FVOCI only if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at 
FVTPL:

• 

• 

The asset is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows 
and selling financial assets; and
The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of 
principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

On initial recognition of an equity investment that is not held for trading, the Group may irrevocably elect to present 
subsequent changes in fair value in OCI. This election is made on an investment-by-investment basis.

All other financial assets are classified as measured at FVTPL.

In addition, on initial recognition, the Group may irrevocably designate a financial asset that otherwise meets the 
requirements to be measured at amortised cost or at FVOCI or at FVTPL if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces 
an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise.

Business model assessment
The Group makes an assessment of the objective of a business model in which an asset is held at a portfolio level 
because  this  best  reflects  the  way  the  business  is  managed  and  information  is  provided  to  management.  The 
information considered includes:

• 
• 
• 

• 

The stated policies and objectives for the portfolio and the operation of those policies in practice.
How the performance of the portfolio is evaluated and reported to the Group’s management;
The risks that affect the performance of the business model (and the financial assets held within that business 
model) and how those risks are managed;
How managers of the business are compensated.

The frequency, volume and timing of sales in prior periods, the reasons for such sales and its expectations about 
future sales activity.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(ii)  Classification (continued)

Financial assets that are held for trading or managed and whose performance is evaluated on a fair value basis are 
measured at FVTPL because they are neither held to collect contractual cash flows nor held both to collect contractual 
cash flows and to sell financial assets.

Assessment whether contractual cash flows are solely payments of principal and interest
For the purposes of this assessment, ‘principal’ is defined as the fair value of the financial asset on initial recognition. 
‘Interest’ is defined as consideration for the time value of money and for the credit risk associated with the principal 
amount outstanding during a particular period of time and for other basic lending risks and costs (e.g. liquidity risk 
and administrative costs), as well as profit margin.

In assessing whether the contractual cash flows are solely payments of principal and interest (“the SPPI test”), the 
Group considers the contractual terms of the instrument. This includes assessing whether the financial asset contains 
a contractual term that could change the timing or amount of contractual cash flows such that it would not meet this 
condition. In making the assessment, the Group considers contingent events that would change the amount and 
timing of cash flows, prepayment and extension terms, terms that limit the Group’s claim to cash flows from specified 
assets and features that modify consideration of the time value of money.

Reclassifications
Financial  assets  are  not  reclassified  subsequent  to  their  initial  recognition,  except  in  the  period  after  the  Group 
changes its business model for managing financial assets. The reclassification takes place from the start of the first 
reporting period following the change.

Financial liabilities
The Group has classified and measured its financial liabilities at amortized cost.

(iii)  Derecognition

The Group derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, 
or when it transfers the financial asset in a transaction in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of 
the financial asset are transferred or in which the Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and 
rewards of ownership and it does not retain control of the financial asset. Any interest in transferred financial assets 
that qualify for derecognition that is created or retained by the Group is recognised as a separate asset or liability. On 
derecognition of a financial asset, the difference between the carrying amount of the asset (or the carrying amount 
allocated to the portion of the asset transferred), and consideration received (including any new asset obtained less 
any new liability assumed) is recognised in profit or loss.

Any cumulative gain/loss recognised in OCI in respect of equity investment securities designated as at FVOCI is not 
recognised in the consolidated income statement on derecognition of such securities.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(iii)  Derecognition (continued)

A financial asset (in whole or in part) is derecognised where:

- 
- 

the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired;
the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the 
received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either 
(a) the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership or (b) when it has neither 
transferred or retained substantially all the risks and rewards and when it no longer has control over the financial 
asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

The Group enters into transactions whereby it transfers assets recognised, but retains either all or substantially all of 
the risks and rewards of the transferred assets or a portion of them. If all or substantially all risks and rewards are 
retained, then the transferred assets are not derecognised. Transfers of assets with retention of all or substantially all 
risks and rewards include, for example, securities lending and repurchase transactions.

The Group derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged, cancelled or expired.

(iv)  Modification of financial assets and liabilities

Financial Assets
If the terms of a financial asset are modified, the Group evaluates whether the cash flows of the modified asset are 
substantially different. If the cash flows are substantially different, then the contractual rights to cash flows from the 
original financial asset are deemed to have expired. In this case, the original financial asset is derecognised and a new 
financial asset is recognised at fair value, and recalculates a new effective interest rate for the asset. The date of 
renegotiation is consequently considered to be the date of initial recognition for impairment calculation purpose, 
including for the purpose of determining whether a significant increase in credit risk has occurred.

If the cash flows of the modified asset carried at amortised cost are not substantially different, then the modification 
does not result in derecognition of the financial asset. In this case, the Group recalculates the gross carrying amount 
of the financial asset based on the revised cash flows of the financial assets and recognises the amount arising from 
adjusting the gross carrying amount as a modification gain or loss in the consolidated income statement. If such a 
modification is carried out because of financial difficulties of the borrower, then the gain or loss is presented together 
with impairment losses. In other cases, it is presented as interest income.

Financial Liabilities
The Group derecognises a financial liability when its terms are modified and the cash flows of the modified liability are 
substantially different. In this case, a new financial liability based on the modified terms is recognised at fair value. The 
difference  between  the  carrying  amount  of  the  financial  liability  extinguished  and  the  new  financial  liability  with 
modified terms is recognised in the consolidated income statement.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(v)  Offsetting

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated statement of financial 
position when, and only when, the Group has a legal right to set off the recognised amounts and it intends either to 
settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Income and expenses are presented on a net basis only when permitted under IFRS, or for gains and losses arising 
from a group of similar transactions such as in the Group’s trading activity.

(vi)  Measurement principles

• 

• 

Amortized cost measurement
The amortised cost of a financial asset or liability is the amount at which the financial asset or liability is measured 
at initial recognition, minus principal repayments, plus or minus the cumulative amortisation using the effective 
interest method of any difference between the initial amount recognised and the maturity amount, minus any 
reduction for impairment loss. The calculation of effective interest rate includes all fees paid or received that are 
an integral part of the effective interest rate (EIR).

Fair value measurement
‘Fair value’ is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction 
between market participants at the measurement date in the principal or, in its absence, the most advantageous 
market to which the Group has access at that date. The fair value of a liability reflects its non-performance risk.

When available, the Group measures the fair value of an instrument using the quoted price in an active market 
for that instrument. A market is regarded as active if transactions for the asset or liability take place with sufficient 
frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

If there is no quoted price in an active market, then the Group uses valuation techniques that maximise the use 
of relevant observable inputs and minimise the use of unobservable inputs. The chosen valuation technique 
incorporates all of the factors that market participants would take into account in pricing a transaction.

The best evidence of the fair value of a financial instrument at initial recognition is normally the transaction price 
– i.e. the fair value of the consideration given or received. If the Group determines that the fair value at initial 
recognition differs from the transaction price and the fair value is evidenced neither by a quoted price in an 
active market for an identical asset or liability nor based on a valuation technique that uses only data from 
observable  markets,  then  the  financial  instrument  is  initially  measured  at  fair  value,  adjusted  to  defer  the 
difference between the fair value at initial recognition and the transaction price. Subsequently, that difference is 
recognized in profit or loss on an appropriate basis over the life of the instrument but no later than when the 
valuation is wholly supported by observable market data or the transaction is closed out.

If an asset or a liability measured at fair value has a bid price and an ask price, then the Group measures assets 
and long positions at a bid price and liabilities and short positions at an ask price.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(vi)  Measurement principles (continued)

• 

Fair value measurement (continued)
Portfolios  of  financial  assets  and  financial  liabilities  that  are  exposed  to  market  risk  and  credit  risk  that  are 
managed by the Group on the basis of the net exposure to either market or credit risk are measured on the basis 
of a price that would be received to sell a net long position (or paid to transfer a net short position) for a particular 
risk exposure. Those portfolio-level adjustments are allocated to the individual assets and liabilities on the basis 
of the relative risk adjustment of each of the individual instruments in the portfolio.

The fair value of a demand deposit is not less than the amount payable on demand, discounted from the first 
date on which the amount could be required to be paid.

The Group recognises transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy as of the end of the reporting period 
during which the change has occurred.

(vii) Impairment

The Group recognises loss allowances for expected credit losses (ECL) on the following financial instruments that are 
not measured at FVTPL:

- 
- 

Financial assets that are debt instruments; and
Loan commitments and financial guarantee contracts.

No impairment loss is recognised on equity investments.

The Group measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECL, except for the following, for which they are 
measured as 12-month ECL:

- 
- 

debt investment securities that are determined to have low credit risk at the reporting date; and
other financial instruments on which credit risk has not increased significantly since their initial recognition

12-month ECL are the portion of ECL that result from default events on financial instruments that are possible with the 
12 months after the reporting date.

The Group applies three-stage approach to measure expected credit losses (ECL) on financial assets carried at 
amortised cost and debt instruments classified as FVOCI. Assets migrate through the following three stages based 
on the change in credit quality since initial recognition.

Stage 1: 12 months ECL - not credit impaired Stage 1 includes financial assets on initial recognition and that do not have 
a significant increase in credit risk since the initial recognition or that have low credit risk. For these assets, ECL are 
recognised on the gross carrying amount of the asset based on the expected credit losses that result from default 
events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date. Interest is computed on the gross carrying amount 
of the asset.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(d)  Financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

(vii) Impairment (continued)

Stage 2: Lifetime ECL - not credit impaired Stage 2 includes financial assets that have had a significant increase in 
credit risk (SICR) since initial recognition but that do not have objective evidence of impairment. For these assets, 
lifetime ECL are recognised, but interest is still calculated on the gross carrying amount of the asset. Lifetime ECL are 
the expected credit losses that result from all possible default events over the expected life of the financial instrument.

Stage 3: Lifetime ECL - credit impaired Stage 3 includes financial assets that have objective evidence of impairment at 
the reporting date. For these assets, lifetime ECL are recognised.

Measurement of ECL
ECL are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses. They are measured as follows:

- 

- 

- 

- 

Financial assets that are not credit-impaired at the reporting date: as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. 
the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that 
the Group expects to receive);
Financial assets that are credit-impaired at the reporting date: as the difference between the gross carrying 
amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows;
Undrawn loan commitments: as the present value of the difference between the contractual cash flows that are 
due to the Group if the commitment is drawn down and the cash flows that the Group expects to receive; and
Financial guarantee contracts: the expected payments to reimburse the holder less any amounts that the Group 
expects to recover.

Restructured financial assets
If the terms of a financial asset are renegotiated or modified or an existing financial asset is replaced with a new one 
due to financial difficulties of the borrower, then an assessment is made of whether the financial asset should be 
derecognised and ECL are measured as follows.

- 

- 

if the expected restructuring will not result in derecognition of the existing asset, then the expected cash flows 
arising from the modified financial asset are included in calculating the cash shortfalls from the existing asset.
if the expected restructuring will result in derecognition of the existing asset, then the expected fair value of the 
new asset is treated as the final cash flow from the existing financial asset at the time of its derecognition. This 
amount is included in calculating the cash shortfalls from the existing financial asset that are discounted from the 
expected date of derecognition to the reporting date using the original effective interest rate of the existing 
financial asset.

Credit-impaired financial assets
At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether financial assets carried at amortised cost and debt financial 
assets carried at FVOCI are credit impaired. A financial asset is ‘credit-impaired’ when one or more events that have a 
detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred.

Evidence that a financial asset is credit-impaired includes the following observable data:

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Significant financial difficulty of the borrower or issuer;
A breach of contract such as a default or past due event;
The restructuring of a loan or advance by the Group on terms that the Group would not consider otherwise;
It is becoming probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation; or
The disappearance of an active market for a security because of financial difficulties.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(e)  Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include notes and coins on hand, unrestricted balances held with central banks and highly liquid 
financial assets with original maturities of three months or less from the acquisition date that are subject to an insignificant 
risk of changes in their fair value and are used by the Group in the management of its short-term commitments. Cash and 
cash equivalents includes amounts due from banks and with an original maturity of 90 days or less.

(f)  Loans and advances to customers

Loans and advances to customers are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not 
quoted in an active market and that the Group does not intend to sell immediately or in the near term.

Loans and advances to customers are initially measured at the transaction price, which is the fair value plus incremental 
direct transaction costs, and subsequently measured at their amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, 
except for the financial assets which are classified to be measured at FVTPL, which are measured at fair value with changes 
recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement.

(g)  Investment Securities

The investment securities includes:

- 

- 

- 
- 

Debt investment securities measured at amortised cost; these are initially measured at fair value plus incremental 
direct transaction costs, and subsequently at their amortised cost using the effective interest method;
Debt and equity investment securities mandatorily measured at FVTPL or designated as at FVTPL; these are at fair 
value with changes recognised immediately in profit or loss;
Debt securities measured at FVOCI; and
Equity investment securities designated at FVOCI.

For  debt  securities  measured  at  FVOCI,  gains  and  losses  are  recognised  in  OCI,  except  for  the  following,  which  are 
recognised in profit or loss in the same manner as for financial assets measured at amortised cost:

- 
- 
- 

Interest income using the effective interest method;
Expected credit losses and reversals; and
Foreign exchange gains and losses

When a debt security measured at FVOCI is derecognised, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in OCI is 
reclassified from equity to consolidated income statement.

The Group elects to present in OCI changes in the fair value of certain investments in equity. The election is made on an 
instrument by instrument basis on initial recognition and is irrevocable. Gains and losses on such equity instruments are 
never subsequently reclassified to consolidated income statement, including on disposal. Impairment losses (and reversal 
of impairment losses) are not reported separately from other changes in fair value. Dividends, when representing a return 
on  such  investments,  continue  to  be  recognised  in  consolidated  income  statement,  unless  they  clearly  represent  a 
recovery of part of the cost of the investment, in which case they are recognised in OCI. Cumulative gains and losses 
recognised in OCI are transferred to retained earnings on disposal of an investment.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(h)  Derivatives

(i)  Derivatives held for risk management purposes and hedge accounting

Derivatives held for risk management purposes include all derivative assets and liabilities that are not classified as 
trading assets or liabilities. Derivatives held for risk management purposes are measured at fair value. The Group 
designates certain derivatives held for risk management as well as certain non-derivative financial instruments as 
hedging instruments in qualifying hedging relationships.

The general hedge accounting requirements of IFRS 9 retain the three types of hedge accounting mechanisms in IAS 
39.  However,  greater  flexibility  has  been  introduced  to  the  types  of  transactions  eligible  for  hedge  accounting, 
specifically broadening the types of instruments that qualify as hedging instruments and the types of risk components 
of non-financial items that are eligible for hedge accounting. In addition, the effectiveness test has been overhauled 
and replaced with the principle of an ‘economic relationship’. Retrospective assessment of hedge effectiveness is no 
longer required.

The Group has also elected to continue to apply the hedge accounting requirements of IAS 39 on adoption of IFRS 9.

Fair value hedges
When a derivative is designated as the hedging instrument in a hedge of the change in fair value of a recognised 
asset or liability or a firm commitment that could affect profit or loss, changes in the fair value of the derivative are 
recognised immediately in profit or loss together with changes in the fair value of the hedged item that are attributable 
to the hedged risk. If the hedging derivative expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or the hedge no longer 
meets the criteria for fair value hedge accounting, or the hedge designation is revoked, then hedge accounting is 
discontinued prospectively. Any adjustment up to that point to a hedged item, for which the effective interest method 
is used, is amortised to profit or loss as part of the recalculated effective interest rate of the item over its remaining 
life.

Cash flow hedges
When a derivative is designated as the hedging instrument in a hedge of the variability in cash flows attributable to a 
particular risk associated with a recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction that could affect 
profit or loss, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized in other comprehensive 
income in the hedging reserve. The amount recognised in other comprehensive income is reclassified to profit or 
loss as a reclassification adjustment in the same period as the hedged cash flows affect profit or loss, and in the same 
line  item  in  the  statement  of  comprehensive  income.  Any  ineffective  portion  of  changes  in  the  fair  value  of  the 
derivative is recognised immediately in profit or loss. If the hedging derivative expires or is sold, terminated, or 
exercised, or the hedge no longer meets the criteria for cash flow hedge accounting, or the hedge designation is 
revoked, then hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. In a discontinued hedge of a forecast transaction the 
cumulative amount recognised in other comprehensive income from the period when the hedge was effective is 
reclassified from equity to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment when the forecast transaction occurs and 
affects profit or loss. If the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, then the balance in other comprehensive 
income is reclassified immediately to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is 
recognised  in  other  comprehensive  income.  The  gain  or  loss  relating  to  the  ineffective  portion  is  recognised 
immediately in the consolidated income statement.

Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or 
loss (for example, when the forecast sale that is hedged takes place).

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(h)  Derivatives (continued)

(i)  Derivatives held for risk management purposes and hedge accounting (continued)

Cash flow hedge (continued)
When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, 
any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecast 
transaction is ultimately recognised in the consolidated income statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer 
expected  to  occur,  the  cumulative  gain  or  loss  that  was  reported  in  equity  is  immediately  transferred  to  the 
consolidated income statement.

(ii)  Derivatives held for trading purposes

The Group’s derivative trading instruments includes, forward foreign exchange contracts and interest rate swaps. The 
Group sells these derivatives to customers in order to enable them to transfer, modify or reduce current and future 
risks. These derivative instruments are fair valued as at the end of reporting date and the corresponding fair value 
changes is taken to the profit or loss.

(i)  Property and equipment

(i)  Recognition and measurement

Items  of  property  and  equipment  are  initially  measured  at  cost  and  subsequently  at  cost  less  accumulated 
depreciation  and  accumulated  impairment  losses,  if  any,  except  for  land  and  building  which  are  subsequently 
measured at fair value.

Revaluations  of  freehold  land  and  buildings  are  carried  out  by  an  independent  valuer.  Net  surpluses  arising  on 
revaluation are credited to a revaluation reserve, except that a revaluation increase is recognised as income to the 
extent that it reverses a revaluation decrease of the same asset previously recognised as an expense. A decrease as 
a result of a revaluation is recognised as an expense, except that it is charged directly against any related revaluation 
surplus to the extent that the decrease does not exceed the amount held in the revaluation surplus in respect of that 
same asset. On disposal the related revaluation surplus is credited to retained earnings.

Cost includes expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. The cost of self-constructed 
assets includes the cost of materials and direct labour, any other costs directly attributable to bringing the assets to a 
working condition for their intended use, the costs of dismantling and removing the items and restoring the site on 
which they are located and capitalised borrowing costs.

Purchased  software  that  is  integral  to  the  functionality  of  the  related  equipment  is  capitalised  as  part  of  that 
equipment.

When parts of an item of property or equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items 
(major components) of property and equipment.

The gain or loss on disposal of an item of property and equipment is determined by comparing the proceeds from 
disposal with the carrying amount of the item of property and equipment, and is recognised in other income/other 
expenses in profit or loss.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(i)  Property and equipment (continued)

(ii)  Subsequent costs

The cost of replacing a component of an item of property or equipment is recognised in the carrying amount of the 
item if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Group and its cost can 
be  measured  reliably.  The  carrying  amount  of  the  replaced  part  is  derecognised.  The  costs  of  the  day-to-day 
servicing of property and equipment are recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

(iii)  Depreciation

The depreciable amount is the cost of property and equipment, or other amount substituted for cost, less its residual 
value.

Depreciation is recognised in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an 
item of property and equipment since this most closely reflects the expected pattern of consumption of the future 
economic benefits embodied in the asset and is based on cost of the asset less its estimated residual value. Land and 
Capital work in progress are not depreciated.

The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative years are as follows:

Buildings 
Leasehold improvements  
Furniture and equipment 
Motor vehicles 

20 - 30 years
6 - 10 years
3 - 8 years
5 years

(vi)  Right-of-use assets (Leases)

The Group assesses at contract inception whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. That is, if the contract conveys the 
right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Group applies a single recognition and measurement approach for all leases, except for short-term leases less 
than 12 months and leases of low-value assets (USD 5,000 or less). The Group recognises lease liabilities to make 
lease payments and right-of-use assets representing the right to use the underlying assets.

The Group recognises right-of-use assets at the commencement date of the lease (i.e., the date the underlying asset 
is available for use). Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment 
losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount 
of lease liabilities recognised, initial direct costs incurred, and lease payments made at or before the commencement 
date less any lease incentives received. Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter 
of the lease term and the estimated useful lives of the assets, as follows:

Buildings 

2 - 40 years

At the commencement date of the lease, the Group recognises lease liabilities measured at the present value of 
lease payments to be made over the lease term. In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Group uses 
its incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date. Right-of-use assets are subject to impairment in 
line with the policy for the impairment of non-financial assets.

The carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term, a change 
in the lease payments or a change in the assessment of an option to purchase the underlying asset.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(j) 

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

(i)  Goodwill

Goodwill arises on the acquisition of subsidiaries and represents the excess of the consideration transferred over the 
Group’s interest in net fair value of the net identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquiree and 
the fair value of the non-controlling interest in the acquiree.

Goodwill impairment reviews are undertaken annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances 
indicate a potential impairment. The carrying value of goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, which is the 
higher of value in use and the fair value less costs of disposal. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an 
expense and is not subsequently reversed.

(ii)  Intangible assets

The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following 
initial  recognition,  intangible  assets  are  carried  at  cost  less  any  accumulated  amortisation  and  accumulated 
impairment losses.

Internally  generated  intangibles,  excluding  capitalised  development  costs,  are  not  capitalised  and  the  related 
expenditure is reflected in profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure is incurred.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever 
there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortisation period and the amortisation method 
for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the 
expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are 
considered to modify the amortisation period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting 
estimates. The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognised in the statement of profit or 
loss as the expense category that is consistent with the function of the intangible assets.

The estimated useful economic life of intangible assets with finite lives are; Brand 18 to 19 years, Customer relationship 
11 to 12 years, Core deposit 13 to 16 years and Internally developed software and others 5 years.

Intangible  assets  with  indefinite  useful  lives  are  not  amortised,  but  are  tested  for  impairment  annually,  either 
individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine 
whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made 
on  a  prospective  basis.  Gains  or  losses  arising  from  de-recognition  of  an  intangible  asset  are  measured  as  the 
difference between the net  disposal proceeds and the carrying  amount  of the asset  and  are  recognised  in the 
statement of profit or loss when the asset is derecognised.

(k)  Impairment of non-financial assets

Assets  that  have  an  indefinite  useful  life  are  not  subject  to  amortisation  and  are  tested  annually  for  impairment.  An 
impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The 
recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing 
impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-generating 
units).  Non-financial  assets  other  than  goodwill  that  suffered  impairment  are  reviewed  for  possible  reversal  of  the 
impairment at each reporting date.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(l)  Provisions

A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be 
estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions 
are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments 
of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.

(m) Financial guarantee contract and loan commitments

Financial guarantees are contracts that require the Group to make specified payments to reimburse the holder for a loss it 
incurs because a specified debtor fails to make payment when due in accordance with the terms of a debt instrument and 
the guarantees may become payable on demand. Financial guarantee liabilities are recognised initially at their fair value, 
and this initial fair value is amortised over the life of the financial guarantee. The financial guarantee liability is subsequently 
carried at the higher of this amortised amount and the present value of any expected payment when a payment under the 
guarantee has become probable. Financial guarantees are included within other liabilities.

(n)  Employee benefits

Defined contribution plans
The Bank provides for its contribution to the State administered retirement fund for Qatari employees in accordance with 
the retirement law, and the resulting charge is included in staff cost in the consolidated income statement. The Bank has 
no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are recognised when they are 
due.

Defined benefit plan
The Bank makes provision for end of service benefits payable to its expatriate employees on the basis of the employees’ 
length of service in accordance with the employment policy of the Bank and the applicable provisions of the Labour Law. 
This provision is included in other provisions as part of other liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position. 
The expected costs of these benefits are accrued over the period of employment.

Alternatifbank, under Turkish Labour Law, is required to pay termination benefits to each employee who has completed at 
least one year of service and whose employment is terminated without due cause, is called up for military service, dies or 
who retires. There are certain transitional provisions relating to length of service prior to retirement. The amount payable 
consists of one month’s salary subject to a maximum threshold per employee for each year of service. There are no 
agreements for pension commitments other than the legal requirement as explained above. The liability is not funded, as 
there is no funding requirement.

Short-term employee benefits
Short-term  employee  benefit  obligations  are  measured  on  an  undiscounted  basis  and  are  expensed  as  the  related 
service is provided. A liability is recognised for the amount expected to be paid under short-term cash bonus or profit-
sharing plans if the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation to pay this amount as a result of past service 
provided by the employee and the obligation can be estimated reliably.

Share-based payments
Employees (including senior management) of the Bank receive  remuneration  in  the form  of  share-based  payments, 
whereby employees are granted share appreciation rights, which are settled in cash (cash settled transactions).

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(n)  Employee benefits (continued)

Cash settled transactions 
The cost of cash settled transactions is measured at fair value at the grant date using Black Scholes model, further details 
of which are given in Note 20. The fair value is measured initially and at each reporting date up to and including the 
settlement date, with changes in fair value recognised in employee benefits expense Note 31. The fair value is expensed 
over the period until the vesting date with recognition of a corresponding liability.

(o)  Share capital and reserves

(i)  Share issue costs

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of an equity instrument are deducted from the initial measurement 
of the equity instruments.

(ii)  Dividends on ordinary shares

Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised in equity in the period in which they are approved by the Bank’s equity 
holders.

(p)  Interest income and expense

Interest  income  and  expense  are  recognised  in  the  consolidated  income  statement  using  the  effective  interest  rate 
method. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments and receipts 
through the expected life of the financial asset or liability (or, where appropriate, a shorter period) to the carrying amount 
of  the  financial  asset  or  liability.  When  calculating  the  effective  interest  rate,  the  Group  estimates  future  cash  flows 
considering all contractual terms of the financial instrument, but not future credit losses.

For the financial assets that have become credit-impaired subsequent to initial recognition, interest income is calculated 
by applying the effective interest rate to their amortised cost (i.e. net of the expected credit loss provision). If the asset is 
no longer credit-impaired, then the calculation of interest income reverts to the gross basis.

The calculation of the effective interest rate includes all transaction costs and fees paid or received that are an integral part 
of the effective interest rate.

Transaction costs include incremental costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of a financial asset or 
liability.

Interest income and expense include:

- 

- 

- 

- 

Interest on financial assets and financial liabilities measured at amortised cost calculated on an effective interest rate 
basis;
The  effective  portion  of  fair  value  changes  in  qualifying  hedging  derivatives  designated  in  cash  flow  hedges  of 
variability in interest cash flows, in the same period that the hedged cash flows affect interest income / expense;
The ineffective portion of fair value changes in qualifying hedging derivatives designated in cash flow hedges of 
interest rate risk; and
Fair value changes in qualifying derivatives, including hedge ineffectiveness, and related hedged items in fair value 
hedges of interest rate risk.

Interest income on investment (debt) securities measured at FVOCI and measured at amortised cost is calculated using 
effective interest rate method and is also included in interest income.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(q)  Fee and commission income and expense

Fees and commission income and expense that are integral to the effective interest rate on a financial asset or liability are 
included in the measurement of the effective interest rate.

Other fees and commission income, including account servicing fees, investment management fees, sales commission, 
placement fees and syndication fees, are recognised as the related services are performed. When a loan commitment is 
not expected to result in the draw-down of a loan, the related loan commitment fees are recognised on a straight-line 
basis over the commitment period. Other fees and commission expense relate mainly to transaction and service fees, 
which are expensed as the services are received.

(r) 

Income from investment securities
Gains or losses on the disposal of investment securities are recognised in profit or loss as the difference between fair value 
of the consideration received and carrying amount of the investment securities.

Unrealised gains or losses on fair value changes from remeasurement of investment securities classified as held for 
trading or designated as fair value through profit or loss are recognised in profit or loss.

Any cumulative gain/loss recognised in OCI in respect of equity investment securities designated as at FVOCI is not 
recognised in the consolidated income statement on derecognition of such securities.

(s)  Dividend income

Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive dividend income is established.

(t) 

Income tax expenses
Taxes are calculated based on tax laws and regulations in the countries in which the Group operates. Tax is recognized 
based on an evaluation of the expected tax charge/credit. Income tax and deferred tax mainly arising from Alternatif bank 
operations.

Deferred tax is recognised in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for 
financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that 
are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled based on laws that have been 
enacted at the reporting date.

(u)  Earnings per share

The Bank presents basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by 
dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary equity holders of the Bank, further adjusted for the dividend appropriation 
for instruments eligible for additional Tier 1 Capital, if any, by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding 
during the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to ordinary equity holders , further 
adjusted  for  the  dividend  appropriation  for  instruments  eligible  for  additional  Tier  1  Capital,  if  any,  and  the  weighted 
average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

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3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

(v)  Segment reporting

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating 
decision maker. The chief operating decision maker is the person or group that allocates resources to and assesses the 
performance of the operating segments of an entity. The Group has determined the Chief Executive Officer of the Bank as 
its chief operating decision maker.

All  transactions  between  operating  segments  are  conducted  on  an  arm’s  length  basis  directly  associated  with  each 
segment are included in determining operating segment performance.

(w)  Fiduciary activities

The Group acts as fund manager and in other fiduciary capacities that result in the holding or placing of assets on behalf of 
individuals,  corporate  and  other  institutions.  These  assets  and  income  arising  thereon  are  excluded  from  these 
consolidated financial statements, as they are not assets of the Group.

(x)  Repossessed collateral

Repossessed collaterals in settlement of customers’ debts are stated under “Other assets” at carrying value of debts or 
fair  value  if  lower.  According  to  QCB  instructions,  the  Group  should  dispose  of  any  land  and  properties  acquired  in 
settlement of debts within a period not exceeding three years from the date of acquisition although this period can be 
extended with the approval of QCB.

(y)  Appropriations for Instruments Eligible for Additional Capital

Appropriations for Instruments Eligible for Additional Capital are treated as dividends.

(z)  Comparatives

Except when a standard or an interpretation permits or requires otherwise, all amounts are reported or disclosed with 
comparative information.

4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

a) 

Introduction and overview
The Group’s business involves taking risks in a targeted manner and managing them professionally. The core functions of 
the Group’s risk management are to identify all key risks for the Group, measure these risks, manage the risk positions and 
determine capital allocations. The Group regularly reviews its risk management policies and systems to reflect changes in 
markets, products and best market practice.

The Group’s aim is to achieve an appropriate balance between risk and return and minimise potential adverse effects on 
the Group’s financial performance. The Group defines risk as the possibility of losses or profits foregone, which may be 
caused by internal or external factors.

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

a) 

Introduction and overview (continued)

Financial instruments
Financial instruments comprise the Group’s financial assets and liabilities. Financial assets include cash and balances with 
Central banks, due from banks, loans and advances, investment securities, derivative financial assets and certain other 
assets  and  financial  liabilities  include  customer  deposits,  borrowings  under  repurchase  agreements  and  interbank 
takings,  debt  issued  and  other  borrowed  funds,  derivative  financial  liabilities  and  certain  other  liabilities.  Financial 
instruments also include rights and commitments included in off- balance sheet items.

Note 3(d) describes the accounting policies followed by the Group in respect of recognition and measurement of the key 
financial instruments and their related income and expense.

Risk management
The Group derives its revenue from assuming and managing customer risk for profit. Through a robust governance 
structure,  risk  and  return  are  evaluated  to  produce  sustainable  revenue,  to  reduce  earnings  volatility  and  increase 
shareholder value. The most important types of risk are credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk and operational risk. Credit risk 
reflects the possible inability of a customer to meet his/her repayment or delivery obligations. Market risk, which includes 
foreign currency, interest rate risks and other price risks, is the risk of fluctuation in asset and commodity values caused by 
changes in market prices and yields. Liquidity risk results in the inability to accommodate liability maturities and withdrawals, 
fund asset growth or otherwise meet contractual obligations at reasonable market rates. Operational risk is the potential 
for  loss  resulting  from  events  involving  people,  processes,  technology,  legal  issues,  external  events  or  execution  or 
regulatory issues.

Risk and other committees
The governance structure of the Group is headed by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors evaluates risk by 
engaging with the Group Chief Executive Officer and Chief Risk Officer alongwith the following Board and Management 
Committees:

1) 

Board Risk Committee is responsible for all aspects of Risk Management across the Group including but not restricted 
to credit risk, market risk, and operational risk. This committee sets the policy on all risk issues and maintains oversight 
of all Group risks through the Management Risk Committee.

2)  Board  Audit  and  Compliance  Committee  is  responsible  for  setting  the  policy  on  all  Audit  issues  and  maintains 
oversight of all Bank audit issues through the Chief Internal Auditor. In addition, the committee is also responsible for 
Compliance & Anti-Money Laundering which is managed through the Chief Compliance Officer.

3)  Board Executive Committee is responsible for evaluating and granting credit facilities and approval of the Group’s 
investment activities within authorized limits per Qatar Central Bank and Board of Directors’ guidelines. In addition, 
this  committee  is  also  responsible  for  all  policies  and  strategies  of  the  business  and  compliance  of  corporate 
governance.

4)  Management Credit Committee (MCC) is the third highest-level authority on all Counterparty Credit Risk Exposures, 
after the Board of Directors and Board Executive Committee. The MCC also is responsible for watch list and non-
performing assets to minimize risks, prevent losses, maximize recoveries and restore profits through rehabilitation, 
restructuring, workout, collection or legal actions. MCC exercises its credit authority as conferred upon them by the 
Delegation of Authority (“DoA”) as approved by the Board.

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

a) 

Introduction and overview (continued)

Risk and other committees (continued)
5)  Management Risk Committee is the highest management authority on all risk related issues in the Group and its 
subsidiaries and affiliates in which it has strategic investments. This committee provides recommendations on all risk 
policy and portfolio issues to the Board Risk Committee.

6)  Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO) is a management committee which is a decision making body relating to Asset 
and Liability management. (i.e. balance sheet structure, funding, pricing, hedging, setting limits etc.) Under the overall 
risk management framework, ALCO is a key component of risk management within the Bank.

7) 

Investment Committee (ICO) is the decision making committee for Bank’s proprietary investment activities, with a 
view to optimize returns, ensuring that the investment book provides a liquidity buffer for the bank and mitigate 
market risk attached to the nature of targeted investment.

8)  Crisis  Management  Committee  (CMC)  is  the  authority  for  management  of  a  crisis,  entailing  business  continuity, 
prevention, planning, testing, and evaluation. The CMC’s objective is to mitigate and minimize the consequences of 
crisis events.

(b)  Credit risk

Credit risk is defined as the potential that a borrower or counterparty will fail to meet its obligations in accordance with 
agreed terms. The goal of credit risk management is to maximize the Group’s risk-adjusted rate of return by maintaining 
credit risk exposure within acceptable parameters. Loans and advances are the largest sources of credit risk for the Group. 
Other sources of credit risk exist throughout the activities of the Group, including investments in the banking book and in 
the trading book. The Group also faces credit risk (or counterparty risk) in various financial instruments other than loans, 
including: acceptances, interbank transactions, trade financing, foreign exchange transactions, derivative instruments, 
and in the extension of commitments and guarantees, as well as the settlement of transactions. The Group maintains well 
defined, written policies and procedures for identifying, measuring, monitoring, and controlling credit risk, governing 
credit-granting activities in conformance with the risk appetite and limits defined by the Board. All extensions of credit are 
made on an arm’s length basis in accordance with the Group’s credit-granting approval process by a combination of 
authorized  individuals,  groups  or  credit  committees,  depending  on  the  size  and  nature  of  the  credit,  who  have  the 
experience, knowledge and background to exercise prudent judgement in assessing, approving and managing credit 
risks.

(i)  Credit risk measurement

1. 

Loans and advances
The Group’s aim is to maintain a sound asset portfolio by optimizing its loan mix. This is being achieved through 
a strategy of reducing exposure to non-core client relationships while selectively targeting economic sectors 
that are core to the overall business strategy. In addition, the Group intends to diversify risk by increasing the size 
of the consumer portfolio comprising of consumer loans, vehicle loans, credit cards and residential mortgages. 
In measuring credit risk of loan and advances to customers and to banks, the Group reflects three components 
(i) the ‘probability of default’ by the client or counterparty on its contractual obligations; (ii) current exposures to 
the counterparty and its likely potential future exposure, from which the Group derive the ‘exposure at default’; 
and (iii) the likely recovery ratio on the defaulted obligations (the ‘loss given default’).

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(i)  Credit risk measurement (continued)

1. 

Loans and advances (continued)
(i)  The Group assesses the probability of default of individual counterparties using internal rating tools tailored 
to  the  various  categories  of  counterparty.  They  combine  statistical  analysis  along  with  the  business 
relationship officers and credit risk officers assessment and are independently validated. Clients of the 
Group are segmented based on a 10-point rating scale (22 notches including modifiers) for the corporate 
book and product based application scores for the retail book. The Group’s rating scale reflects the range 
of default probabilities defined for each rating class. This means that, in principle, the probability of default 
changes with the migration of ratings. The rating tools are kept under review and upgraded as necessary.

The  ratings  of  the  major  rating  agency  are  mapped  to  Group’s  rating  grades  based  on  the  long-term 
average  default  rates  for  each  external  grade.  The  Group  uses  the  external  ratings  where  available  to 
benchmark  internal  credit  risk  assessment.  Observed  defaults  per  rating  category  vary  year  on  year, 
especially over an economic cycle.

(ii)  Exposure at default is based on the amounts the Group expects to be owed at the time of default. For 
example, for a loan this is the carrying value. For a commitment, the Group includes any amount already 
drawn plus the further amount that may have been drawn by the time of default, should it occur. For undrawn 
facilities, the Group applies credit conversion factors that are prescribed by Qatar Central Bank and are 
aligned to Bank of International Settlements (BIS) guidelines. 

(iii)  Loss given default or loss severity represents the Group’s expectation of the extent of loss on a claim should 
default  occur.  It  is  expressed  as  percentage  loss  per  unit  of  exposure  and  typically  varies  by  type  of 
counterparty, type and seniority of claim and availability of collateral or other credit mitigation.

2.  Debt securities and other bills

For debt securities and other bills, external ratings such as Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s ratings or their 
equivalents are used by Treasury for managing the credit risk exposures. The investments in those securities and 
bills are viewed as a way to improve the overall asset quality, enhance yield and provide a readily available source 
to meet the funding requirement.

(ii)  Risk limit control and mitigation policies

Portfolio diversification
Portfolio diversification is an overriding principle, therefore, the credit policies are structured to ensure that the Group 
is not over exposed to a given client, industry sector or geographic area. To avoid excessive losses if any single 
counter-party is unable to fulfil its payment obligations, large exposure limits have been established per credit policy 
following the local regulations. Limits are also in place to manage exposures to a particular country or sector. These 
risks  are  monitored  on  an  ongoing  basis  and  subject  to  an  annual  or  more  frequent  review,  when  considered 
necessary.

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(ii)  Risk limit control and mitigation policies (continued)

Collateral
In  order  to  proactively  respond  to  credit  deterioration,  the  Group  employs  a  range  of  policies  and  practices  to 
mitigate credit risk.

The most traditional of these is the taking of security for funds advanced, which is common practice. The Group 
implements guidelines on the acceptability of specific classes of collateral or credit risk mitigation. The principal 
collateral types for loans and advances are:

•  Mortgages over residential properties;
Lending against lien marked deposits;
• 
Charges over business assets such as premises, inventory and accounts receivable;
• 
Charges over financial instruments such as debt securities and equities.
• 

Longer-term finance and lending to corporate entities are generally secured; working capital credit facilities are 
generally unsecured. In addition, in order to minimize the credit loss, the Group will seek additional collateral from the 
counterparty as soon as impairment indicators are noticed for the relevant individual loans and advances.

Collateral held as security for financial assets other than loans and advances is determined by the nature of the 
instrument. Debt securities, treasury and other eligible bills are generally unsecured, with the exception of asset-
backed securities and similar instruments, which are secured by portfolios of financial instruments.

Credit-related commitments
The primary purpose of these instruments is to ensure that funds are available to a customer as required. Guarantees 
and standby letters of credit carry the same credit risk as loans. Documentary and commercial letters of credit – 
which are written undertakings by the Group on behalf of a customer authorizing a third party to draw drafts on the 
Group up to a stipulated amount under specific terms and conditions – are collateralized by the underlying shipments 
of goods to which they relate and therefore carry less risk than a direct loan.

Commitments to extend credit represent unused portions of authorizations to extend credit in the form of loans, 
guarantees or letters of credit. With respect to credit risk on commitments to extend credit, the Group is potentially 
exposed to loss in an amount equal to the total unused commitments. However, the likely amount of loss is less than 
the total unused commitments, as most commitments to extend credit are contingent upon customers maintaining 
specific credit standards. The Group monitors the term to maturity of credit commitments because longer-term 
commitments generally have a greater degree of credit risk than shorter-term commitments.

Credit risk arising from derivative financial instruments is, at any time, limited to those with positive fair values, as at the 
reporting date. With gross-settled derivatives, the Group is also exposed to a settlement risk, being the risk that the 
Group honors its obligation but the counterparty fails to deliver the counter-value.

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(iii)  Maximum exposure to credit risk before collateral held or other credit enhancements

Credit risk exposures relating to assets recorded on the 
consolidated statement of financial position are as follows:
Balances with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment securities - debt
Other assets
Total as at 31 December

Other credit risk exposures are as follows:
Guarantees
Letters of credit
Unutilized credit facilities
Total as at 31 December

2020

2019

5,851,972
10,401,014
96,698,098
24,977,468
2,486,722
140,415,274

17,788,756
2,291,488
4,465,134
24,545,378
164,960,652

5,250,971
12,396,433
88,009,448
26,408,148
1,690,200
133,755,200

21,353,539
1,706,950
4,287,871
27,348,360
161,103,560

The above table represents a worse-case scenario of credit risk exposure to the Group, without taking account of any 
collateral held or other credit enhancements attached.

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(iv)  Concentration of risks of financial assets with credit risk exposure

Geographical sectors
The following table breaks down the Group’s credit exposure at their carrying amounts (without taking into account 
any collateral held or other credit support), as categorized by geographical region. For this table, the Group has 
allocated exposures to regions based on the country of domicile of its counterparties.

2020

Qatar Other GCC

Other  
Middle east

Rest of  
the world

Total

Balances with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment securities - debt
Other assets

4,168,694
991,136
74,958,590
18,935,247
2,097,767
101,151,434

-
200,706
204,077
446,275
-
851,058

-
6,114,567

1,683,278
3,094,605
18,226,563
4,280,798
388,955

5,851,972
10,401,014
3,308,868 96,698,098
24,977,468
2,486,722
27,674,199 10,738,583 140,415,274

1,315,148
-

2019

Qatar

Other GCC

Other  
Middle east

Rest of  
the world

Total

Balances with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment securities - debt
Other assets

3,698,747
4,275,094
73,308,248
19,914,595
1,302,765
102,499,449

-
675,608
474,138
364,868
516
1,515,130

1,552,224
4,089,664
13,491,026
4,059,685
276,834
23,469,433

5,250,971
-
3,356,067
12,396,433
736,036 88,009,448
26,408,148
1,690,200
133,755,200

2,069,000
110,085
6,271,188

2020

Guarantees
Letters of credit
Unutilized credit facilities

Qatar Other GCC

Other  
Middle east

Rest of  
the world

Total

9,181,740
1,196,565
2,728,362
13,106,667

775,795
463
1,456,059
2,232,317

59,798
38,465
173
98,436

7,771,423
1,055,995
280,540

17,788,756
2,291,488
4,465,134
9,107,958 24,545,378

103

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(iv)  Concentration of risks of financial assets with credit risk exposure (continued)

Geographical sectors (continued)

2019

Guarantees
Letters of credit
Unutilized credit facilities

Qatar

Other GCC

Other  
Middle east

Rest of  
the world

Total

9,723,889
1,326,800
3,179,533
14,230,222

1,303,244
463
828,211
2,131,918

253,249
-
-
253,249

10,073,157
379,687
280,127
10,732,971

21,353,539
1,706,950
4,287,871
27,348,360

Industry sectors
The following table breaks down the Group’s credit exposure at carrying amounts before taking into account collateral 
held or other credit enhancements, as categorized by the industry sectors of the Group’s counterparties.

Funded
Government
Government agencies
Industry
Commercial
Services
Contracting
Real estate
Consumers
Other sectors
Total funded

Un-funded
Government institutions & semi government agencies
Services
Commercial and others
Total un-funded
Total

Gross exposure 
2020

Gross exposure 
2019

40,183,405
4,676,713
8,560,647
15,324,793
36,974,355
2,845,738
20,555,049
6,701,930
4,592,644
140,415,274

2,237,635
10,096,812
12,210,931
24,545,378
164,960,652

39,234,483
3,975,558
8,091,993
13,710,085
38,612,198
2,857,702
19,495,282
5,907,053
1,870,846
133,755,200

3,446,069
11,986,717
11,915,574
27,348,360
161,103,560

104

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(v)  Credit quality

The credit quality of financial assets is managed by the Group using internal and external credit risk ratings. The Group 
follows an internal obligor risk rating (ORR) mechanism for grading relationships across its credit portfolio. The Group 
utilises a ten-scale credit rating system with positive and negative modifiers, giving a total scale range of 22, of which 
19 (with positive and negative modifiers) relate to performing and three to non-performing. Within performing, ORR 
1 to 4- represents investment grade, ORR 5+ to 7+ represents sub-investment grade and 7 and 7- represent watch 
list. ORR 8 to 10 represents sub-standard, doubtful and loss respectively. All credits are assigned a rating in accordance 
with  the  defined  criteria.  The  Group  endeavours  continuously  to  improve  upon  the  internal  credit  risk  rating 
methodologies and credit risk management policies and practices to reflect the true underlying credit risk of the 
portfolio and the credit culture in the Group. All lending relationships are reviewed at least once in a year and more 
frequently in the case of non-performing assets.

The  following  table  sets  out  information  about  the  credit  quality  of  financial  assets,  commitments  and  financial 
guarantees.

Cash and Balances with Central Banks 
(Excluding Cash on Hand) and Due 
from Banks

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

2020

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful - ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued Interest
Carrying amount

9,518,594
4,814,478
-
-
-
14,333,072
(23,961)
14,309,111

-
1,991,315
-
-
-
1,991,315
(63,524)
1,927,791

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

9,518,594
6,805,793
-
-
-
16,324,387
(87,485)
16,236,902
16,084
16,252,986

105

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(v)  Credit quality (continued)

Loans and advances to Customers

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

2020

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful - ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued Interest
Carrying amount

  ORR = Obligatory Risk Rating 

41,424,708
38,296,983
-
-
-
79,721,691
(281,049)
79,440,642

476,114
15,478,765
-
-
-
15,954,879
(1,239,905)
14,714,974

41,900,822
-
53,775,748
-
741,024
741,024
1,426,348
1,426,348
2,159,756
2,159,756
4,327,128 100,003,698
(4,396,622)
(2,875,668)
95,607,076
1,451,460
1,091,022
96,698,098

Investment Securities - Debt

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

2020

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued interrest
Carrying amount

19,296,219
4,310,623
-
-
-
23,606,842
(35,166)
23,571,676

282,620
102,886
-
-
-
385,506
(14,112)
371,394

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

19,578,839
4,413,509
-
-
-
23,992,348
(49,278)
23,943,070
141,519
24,084,589

106

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(v)  Credit quality (continued)

Loan Commitments and  
financial Guarantees

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Cash and Balances with Central Banks 
(Excluding Cash on Hand) and Due  
from Banks

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful - ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued Interest
Carrying amount

2020

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

5,724,049
14,945,312
-
-
-
20,669,361
(89,665)
20,579,696

115,806
3,472,303
1,459
-
-
3,589,568
(47,673)
3,541,895

-
-
44,378
1,035
241,036
286,449
(23,545)
262,904

5,839,855
18,417,615
45,837
1,035
241,036
24,545,378
(160,883)
24,384,495

2019

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

9,174,366
5,459,786
-
-
-
14,634,152
(7,515)
14,626,637

-
3,043,808
-
-
-
3,043,808
(33,037)
3,010,771

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

9,174,366
8,503,594
-
-
-
17,677,960
(40,552)
17,637,408
9,996
17,647,404

107

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(v)  Credit quality (continued)

Loans and advances to Customers

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

2019

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful - ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued Interest
Carrying amount

  ORR = Obligatory Risk Rating 

36,969,262
34,143,968
-
-
-
71,113,230
(61,964)
71,051,266

110,704
15,204,195
545
-
-
15,315,444
(872,666)
14,442,778

-
-
962,594
1,345,136
2,179,512
4,487,242
(2,751,042)
1,736,200

37,079,966
49,348,163
963,139
1,345,136
2,179,512
90,915,916
(3,685,672)
87,230,244
779,204
88,009,448

Investment Securities - Debt

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

2019

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance

Accrued interrest
Carrying amount

17,397,199
6,947,653
-
-
-
24,344,852
(4,071)
24,340,781

270,761
295,715
-
-
-
566,476
-
566,476

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

17,667,960
7,243,368
-
-
-
24,911,328
(4,071)
24,907,257
138,199
25,045,456

108

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(v)  Credit quality (continued)

Loan Commitments and  
financial Guarantees

Investment grade - ORR 1 to 4
Sub-investment grade - ORR 5 to 7
Substandard - ORR 8
Doubtful ORR 9
Loss - ORR 10
Total - Gross
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

2019

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

5,490,388
17,271,678
-
-
-
22,762,066
(26,345)
22,735,721

100,661
4,141,518
8,509
-
-
4,250,688
(41,764)
4,208,924

-
-
45,426
518
289,662
335,606
(27,644)
307,962

5,591,049
21,413,196
53,935
518
289,662
27,348,360
(95,753)
27,252,607

Rescheduled loans and advances to customers
Rescheduled  activities 
include  extended  payment  arrangements,  approved  external  management  plans, 
modification and deferral of payments. Restructuring policies and practices are based on indicators or criteria that, 
in the judgement of local management, indicate that payment will most likely continue. These policies are kept under 
continuous review. Following restructuring, a previously overdue customer account is reset to a normal status and 
managed together with other similar accounts as non-impaired. The accounts which are restructured due to credit 
reasons in past 12 months will be classified under stage 2.

Collateral
The determination of eligible collateral and the value of collateral are based on QCB regulations and are assessed by 
reference to market price or indices of similar assets.

The Group has collateral in the form of blocked deposits, pledge of shares or legal mortgage against loans and 
advances to customers. Aggregate collateral for stage 1 as at 31 December 2020 is QAR 62,752 million (2019: QAR 
56,806 million), stage 2 QAR 17,797 million (2019: QAR 13,272 million) and stage 3 QAR 3,332 million (2019: QAR 
3,587 million).

(vi)  Repossessed collateral

During the year, the Group acquired ownership of land and building by taking possession of collateral held as security 
for an amount of QAR 512 million (2019: QAR 1,922 million).

Repossessed  properties  proceeds  are  used  to  reduce  the  outstanding  indebtedness  and  are  sold  as  soon  as 
practicable.  Repossessed  property  is  classified  in  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  within  other 
assets.

109

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(vii)  Write-off policy

The Group writes off a loan or an investment in debt security balance, and any related allowances for impairment 
losses, when the relevant Credit Committees determines that the loan or security is uncollectible. QCB approval is 
required for local write offs when the amount to be written off exceeds Qatar Riyal one hundred thousand.

This  determination  is  made  after  considering  information  such  as  the  occurrence  of  significant  changes  in  the 
borrower’s/issuer’s  financial  position  such  that  the  borrower/issuer  can  no  longer  pay  the  obligation,  or  that 
proceeds from collateral will not be sufficient to pay back the entire exposure. For smaller balance standardized 
loans, write-off decisions generally are based on a product-specific past due status. The amount written off during 
the year was QAR 450 million (2019: QAR 1,035 million).

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment

Significant increase in credit risk
When  determining  whether  the  risk  of  default  on  a  financial  instrument  has  increased  significantly  since  initial 
recognition, the Group considers reasonable and supportable information that is relevant and available without 
undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative information and analysis including internal credit 
risk grading system, external risk ratings, where available, delinquency status of accounts, credit judgement and, 
where possible, relevant historical experience. The Group may also determine that an exposure has undergone a 
significant increase in credit risk based on particular Qualitative indicators that it considers are indicative of such and 
whose effect may not otherwise be fully reflected in its Quantitative analysis on a timely basis.

In determining whether credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition following criteria are considered:

i) 

Two ‘absolute’ notches downgrade for ratings better than Rating Grade 5 at the time of origination and one 
‘absolute’ notch rating downgrade for other rated customers.
Facilities restructured during previous twelve months.

ii) 
iii)  Facilities overdue by 30 days as at the reporting date in case of Retail Products and overdue by 60 days for 

corporate customers.

Credit risk grades
Credit risk grades are defined using qualitative and quantitative factors that are indicative of risk of default. These 
factors vary depending on the nature of the exposure and the type of borrower. Exposures are subject to on-going 
monitoring, which may result in an exposure being moved to a different credit risk grade.

Generating the term structure of Probability of Default (PD)
The Group uses its own database of default history to model estimates of PD for respective ratings that are used in 
credit decision making. Yearly transition matrices are developed to capture the rating migration of borrowers and 
yearly PDs are calculated over 5 years to get the through-the-cycle (TTC) PD. In order the transform the TTC PD to 
point in time, a credit index for the last five historical years is calculated based upon minimizing the sum of the 
squared differences between the TTC PD and Point-in-time (PIT) PD matrix elements. This analysis includes the 
identification and calibration of relationships between changes in default rates and changes in key macro-economic 
factors, across various geographies in which the Group has exposures.

110

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

Renegotiated financial assets
The contractual terms of a loan may be modified for a number of reasons, including changing market conditions, 
customer retention and other factors not related to a current or potential credit deterioration of the customer. This 
may  involve  extending  the  payment  arrangements  and  documenting  the  agreement  of  new  loan  conditions. 
Management continuously reviews renegotiated loans to ensure that all criteria are met and that future payments 
are likely to occur.

The accounts which are restructured due to credit reasons in past 12 months will be classified under Stage 2.

Definition of default
The Group considers a financial asset to be in default when:
- 

the borrower is unlikely to pay its credit obligations to the Group in full, without recourse by the Group to actions 
such as realising security (if any is held); or
the borrower is past due more than 90 days on any material credit obligation to the Group; or
the borrower is rated 9 (Doubtful) or 10 (Loss).

- 
- 

In assessing whether a borrower is in default, the Group also considers indicators that are:
- 
- 

quantitative – e.g. overdue status and non-payment on another obligation of the same issuer to the Group; and
based on data developed internally and obtained from external sources.

Inputs into the assessment of whether a financial instrument is in default and their significance may vary over time to 
reflect  changes  in  circumstances.  The  definition  of  default  largely  aligns  with  that  applied  for  regulatory  capital 
purposes.

Measurement of ECL
The key inputs into the measurement of ECL are the term structure of the following variables:
- 
- 
- 

probability of default (PD);
loss given default (LGD); and
exposure at default (EAD).

These parameters are generally derived from internally developed statistical models and other historical data. They 
are adjusted to reflect forward-looking information as described above.

PD estimates are estimates at a certain date, which are calculated based on statistical rating models. These statistical 
models are primarily based on internally compiled data comprising both quantitative and qualitative factors.

111

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

Measurement of ECL (continued)
LGD is the magnitude of the likely loss if there is a default. The Group has applied LGD factors based on the type of 
collateral  available  and  has  used  the  LGD  floors  that  are  prescribed  by  QCB  for  certain  collateral  types. 
LGD estimation includes:

1)  Cure Rate: Defined as the ratio of accounts which have fallen to default and have managed to move backward to 

the performing accounts.

2)  Recovery Rate: Defined as the ratio of liquidation value to market value of the underlying collateral at the time of 
default would also account for expected recovery rate from a general claim on the individual’s assets for the 
unsecured portion of the exposure.

Discounting Rate: Defined as the opportunity cost of the recovery value not being realized on the day of default 
adjusted for time value.

EAD represents the expected exposure in the event of a default. The Group derives the EAD from the current 
exposure to the counterparty and potential changes to the current amount allowed under the contract including 
amortization. The EAD of a financial asset is its gross carrying amount.

For lending commitments and financial guarantees, the EAD includes the amount drawn, as well as potential future 
amounts that may be drawn under the contract, which are estimated based on historical observations and forward-
looking forecasts.

Incorporation of forward-looking information
Incorporating  forward-looking  information  increases  the  level  of  judgement  as  to  how  changes  in  these 
macroeconomic factors will affect the Expected Credit Loss (ECL) applicable to the stage 1 and stage 2 exposures 
which  are  considered  as  performing.  The  methodologies  and  assumptions  involved,  including  any  forecasts  of 
future economic conditions, are reviewed periodically. 

The assessment of Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR) and the calculation of ECL both incorporate forward-
looking  information.  The  Group  has  performed  historical  analysis  and  identified  the  key  economic  variables 
impacting credit risk and expected credit losses for each portfolio.

The Group employs statistical models to incorporate macro-economic factors on historical default rates. In the case 
that none of the macro-economic parameters are statistically significant or the results of forecasted PDs are too 
deviated from the present forecast of the economic conditions, qualitative PD overlay is used by management 
based on portfolio analysis.

These economic variables and their associated impact on the PD, EAD and LGD vary by financial instrument. Expert 
judgement  has  also  been  applied  in  this  process.  Forecasts  of  these  economic  variables  (the  ‘base  economic 
scenario’) are based on available information and include mean reversion approaches for long-term forecasts. The 
impact of these economic variables on the PD has been determined by performing statistical regression analysis. 

112

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4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

Incorporation of forward-looking information (continued)
In addition to the base economic scenario, other possible scenarios are assessed along with scenario weightings. 
The number of other scenarios used is set based on the analysis of each major product type to ensure non linearities 
are  captured.  At  31  December  2020,  the  Group  concluded  that  three  scenarios  appropriately  captured  non 
linearities for all portfolios. The scenario weightings are determined by a combination of statistical analysis and 
expert credit judgement, taking account of the range of possible outcomes each chosen scenario is representative 
of. The assessment of SICR is performed using the lifetime PD under each of the base, and other scenarios, multiplied 
by the associated scenario weighting, along with qualitative and backstop indicators. This determines whether the 
whole financial instrument is in Stage 1, Stage 2 or Stage 3 and hence whether 12-month or lifetime ECL should be 
recorded. Following this assessment, the Group measures ECL as either a probability weighted 12 month ECL (Stage 
1), or a probability weighted lifetime ECL (Stages 2 and 3).

These probability-weighted ECLs are determined by running each scenario through the relevant ECL model and 
multiplying it by the appropriate scenario weighting (as opposed to weighting the inputs). As with any economic 
forecasts, the projections and likelihoods of occurrence are subject to a high degree of inherent uncertainty and 
therefore the actual outcomes may be significantly different to those projected. The Group considers these forecasts 
to represent its best estimate of the possible outcomes.

Predicted relationships between the key indicators and default and loss rates on various portfolios of financial assets 
have been developed based on analyzing historically data estimate of expected credit losses. In reality there will be 
interdependencies  between  the  various  economic  inputs  and  the  exposure  to  sensitivity  will  vary  across  the 
economic scenarios.

On  the  backdrop  of  COVID-19,  despite  reaffirmation  of  Qatar’s  strong  fundamentals  and  stable  outlook  by 
international bond markets, and the extraordinary measures taken by the Qatar Government to alleviate the financial 
and economic impact of COVID-19 on affected sectors, the Bank has decided to take a conservative view for the 
purpose of estimating expected credit loss. These assumptions include: oil prices will range bound at around $43/
bbl  (31  December  2019:  $58/bbl  to  $61/bbl);  and,  conservative  real  GDP  growth  estimates  around  -3.5%  (31 
December 2019: 2.8% to 3.1%) for 2020. The Bank also continues to review its Loss Given Default assumptions and 
has made adjustments to the same. The aforementioned values of macro-economic factors have been further 
overlaid by applying conservative scenario weightings of 55%, 45% and 0% for Base, Downside and Upside case 
scenarios, respectively, (31 December 2019: 70% to the Base Case, 15% to Downside and Upside Case) reflecting a 
possibility of flattening of the oil prices at current levels (and consequently government revenue) over the medium 
term. As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, these estimates may be reassessed and adjusted in future.

Other forward-looking considerations not otherwise incorporated within the above scenarios, such as the impact of 
any regulatory, legislative or political changes, have also been considered, but are not deemed to have a material 
impact and therefore no adjustment has been made to the ECL for such factors. This is reviewed and monitored for 
appropriateness on a quarterly basis.

113

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

The table below shows the loss allowance on loans and advances to customers assuming each forward-looking 
scenario (e.g. base, upside and downside) were weighted 100% instead of applying scenario probability weights 
across the three scenarios.

100% Base Case, loss allowance would be higher/ (lower) by
100% Upside Case, loss allowance would be higher/ (lower) by
100% Downside Case, loss allowance would be higher/ (lower) by

These estimates are based on comparisons performed during the year.

2020

2019

(87,998)
(325,294)
92,079

(3,069)
(138,896)
153,220

Movement in ECL
Opening Balance as at 1 January 2020

2020

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

ECL Charge for the Period (net)
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

Write offs / Transfer
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

7,515
61,964
4,277
26,345
100,101

17,250
216,851
30,906
65,041
330,048

-
-
-
-
-

33,037
872,666
12,979
41,764
960,446

30,487
392,976
1,133
5,892
430,488

-
-
-
-
-

-
2,751,042
-
27,644
2,778,686

-
612,014
-
(3,546)
608,468

-
(450,479)
-
-
(450,479)

40,552
3,685,672
17,256
95,753
3,839,233

47,737
1,221,841
32,039
67,387
1,369,004

-
(450,479)
-
-
(450,479)

114

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

Exchange differences
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

Closing Balance as at 31 December 2020
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and Advances to Customers*
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

2020

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

(804)
2,234
(17)
(1,721)
(308)

23,961
281,049
35,166
89,665
429,841

-
(25,737)
-
17
(25,720)

63,524
1,239,905
14,112
47,673
1,365,214

-
(36,909)
-
(553)
(37,462)

(804)
(60,412)
(17)
(2,257)
(63,490)

-
2,875,668
-
23,545
2,899,213

87,485
4,396,622
49,278
160,883
4,694,268

* Allowances for impairment of loans and advances to customers includes QAR 892 million of interest in suspense 
(2019: QAR 711 million).

Movement in ECL
Opening Balance as at 1 January 2019

2019

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

ECL Charge for the Period (net)
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

619
50,382
236
25,711
76,948

7,019
2,750
4,041
6,122
19,932

13,079
952,226
23,817
76,308
1,065,430

19,958
(39,394)
(10,838)
(34,116)
(64,390)

-
2,844,017
-
1,953
2,845,970

-
963,815
-
67,125
1,030,940

13,698
3,846,625
24,053
103,972
3,988,348

26,977
927,171
(6,797)
39,131
986,482

115

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(b)  Credit risk (continued)

(viii) Inputs, assumptions and techniques used for estimating impairment (continued)

Write offs / Transfer
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

Exchange differences
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

Closing Balance as at 31 December 2019
Due from banks and balances with central banks
Loans and Advances to Customers
Investment Securities (Debt)
Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

2019

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Total

-
-
-
-
-

(123)
8,832
-
(5,488)
3,221

7,515
61,964
4,277
26,345
100,101

-
(10,084)
-
-
(10,084)

-
(30,082)
-
(428)
(30,510)

33,037
872,666
12,979
41,764
960,446

-
(1,024,756)
-
(41,198)
(1,065,954)

-
(1,034,840)
-
(41,198)
(1,076,038)

-
(32,034)
-
(236)
(32,270)

-
2,751,042
-
27,644
2,778,686

(123)
(53,284)
-
(6,152)
(59,559)

40,552
3,685,672
17,256
95,753
3,839,233

(c)  Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group is unable to meet its obligations when they fall due as a result of e.g. customer 
deposits  being  withdrawn,  cash  requirements  from  contractual  commitments,  or  other  cash  outflows,  such  as  debt 
maturities or margin calls for derivatives etc. Such outflows would deplete available cash resources for client lending, 
trading activities and investments. In extreme circumstances, lack of liquidity could result in reductions in the consolidated 
statement of financial position and sales of assets, or potentially an inability to fulfil lending commitments. The risk that the 
Group will be unable to do so is inherent in all banking operations and can be affected by a range of institution-specific and 
market-wide  events  including,  but  not  limited  to,  credit  events,  merger  and  acquisition  activity,  systemic  shocks  and 
natural disasters.

116

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(i)  Management of liquidity risk

The management of liquidity risk is governed by the Group’s liquidity policy. The primary objective of liquidity risk 
management; over which ALCO has oversight, is to provide a planning mechanism for unanticipated changes in the 
demand or needs for liquidity created by customer behavior or abnormal market conditions. ALCO emphasizes the 
maximization and preservation of customer deposits and other funding sources. ALCO also monitors deposit rates, 
levels,  trends  and  significant  changes.  Deposit  marketing  plans  are  regularly  reviewed  for  consistency  with  the 
liquidity policy requirements. ALCO has in place a contingency plan, which is periodically reviewed. The Group’s ability 
to raise wholesale and/or long term funding at competitive costs is directly impacted by the Bank’s credit ratings, 
which are as follows:

Moody’s: 
Fitch: 
Standard & Poor’s: 

Long Term A3, Short Term P2, financial strength Ba1 and outlook Stable.
Long Term A, Short Term F1, financial strength bb+ and outlook Stable.
Long Term BBB+, Short Term A-2, financial strength bb+ and outlook stable

(ii)  Exposure to liquidity risk

The key measure used by the Group for managing liquidity risk is the ratio of net liquid assets to deposits from 
customers. For this purpose, net liquid assets are considered as including cash and cash equivalents and investment 
grade debt securities for which there is an active and liquid market less any deposits from banks, debt securities, 
other borrowings and commitments maturing within the next month. A similar, but not identical, calculation is used to 
measure the Group’s compliance with the liquidity limit established by the Group’s lead regulator, QCB under the 
heading ‘Liquidity adequacy ratio’ (LAR). The minimum ratio limit set by QCB is 100%.

Following table sets out the LAR position of the Group during the year as follows:

At 31 December
Average for the year
Maximum for the year
Minimum for the year

2020
(%)

100.78
106.08
114.89
100.36

2019
(%)

108.11
109.14
120.18
100.48

117

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(iii)  Maturity analysis

The following table sets out the maturity profile of the Group’s assets and liabilities. The contractual maturities of 
assets and liabilities have been determined on the basis of the remaining period at 31 December to the contractual 
maturity date and do not take account of the effective maturities as indicated by the Group’s deposit retention history 
and the availability of liquid funds. Management monitors the maturity profile to ensure that adequate liquidity is 
maintained.

Carrying 
amount

Demand / 
within  
1 month

1-3 months

3 months – 
 1 year

Subtotal 
1 year

More than  

1-5 years

5 years No Maturity

2020
Cash and balances 
with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances 
to customers
Investment 
securities
Investment in 
associates and a 
joint arrangement
Property and 
equipment and all 
other assets
Total

8,278,537

2,890,659

-

-

2,890,659

-

10,401,014

5,564,842

1,458,600

2,962,451

9,985,893

415,121

-

-

96,698,098

10,788,017

2,576,137

10,300,869

23,665,023

19,250,983

53,782,092

5,387,878

-

-

25,778,211

7,191

461,789

2,527,467

2,996,447

11,154,389

10,808,777

818,598

3,116,557

-

-

9,333,298

2,602,763

402,291

-

-

-

-

3,005,054

2,995,151

-

-

3,116,557

3,333,093

153,605,715

21,853,472

4,898,817

15,790,787

42,543,076 33,815,644 64,590,869

12,656,126

Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Total
Difference

20,006,985
9,806,955
75,789,543
44,038,234
13,107,134
182,463
14,125,676
216,320
8,405,896
4,321,852
131,435,234 58,565,824
22,170,481

4,469,548
13,707,994
2,040,317
2,205,732
953,528
23,377,119
(36,712,352) (18,478,302)

5,274,050
13,857,373
3,490,996
7,959,518
2,315,979

19,550,553
71,603,601
5,713,776
10,381,570
7,591,359
32,897,916 114,840,859
(72,297,783)
(17,107,129)

203,048
4,185,942
6,030,537
3,512,158
814,537
14,746,222
19,069,422

253,384
-
1,362,821
231,948
-
1,848,153
62,742,716

-
-
-
-
-
-
12,656,126

118

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(iii)  Maturity analysis (continued)

Carrying 
amount

Demand / 
within 
1 month

1-3 months

3 months – 
 1 year

Subtotal 
1 year

More than 

1-5 years

5 years No Maturity

2019
Cash and balances 
with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and 
advances to 
customers
Investment 
securities
Investment in 
associates and a 
joint arrangement
Property and 
equipment and all 
other assets
Total

Due to banks
Customer 
deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Total
Difference

6,075,044

1,631,106

-

-

1,631,106

-

12,396,433

7,554,562

560,646

2,875,551

10,990,759

1,405,674

-

-

88,009,448

9,618,237

2,450,468

11,421,574

23,490,279

19,093,568

45,425,601

4,443,938

-

-

26,844,226

19,971

365,272

1,890,660

2,275,903

13,047,121

11,085,124

436,078

4,021,239

-

-

10,190,094

1,776,949

26,089

-

-

-

-

1,803,038

4,690,583

-

-

4,021,239

3,696,473

147,536,484 20,600,825

3,402,475

16,187,785

40,191,085

38,236,946

56,510,725

12,597,728

22,530,782

10,951,690

4,768,171

4,483,820

20,203,681

2,073,717

253,384

76,296,592

44,985,571

11,455,043

14,842,913

71,283,527

5,013,065

-

-

-

9,524,590
12,043,167
5,385,126
125,780,257
21,756,227

143,726
422,229
3,288,364
59,791,580
(39,190,755)

297,430
1,334,034
1,142,730
18,997,408
(15,594,933)

752,320
5,340,550
545,907
25,965,510
(9,777,725)

1,193,476
7,096,813
4,977,001
104,754,498
(64,563,413)

7,069,889
4,946,354
408,125
19,511,150
18,725,796

1,261,225
-
-
1,514,609
54,996,116

-
-
-
-
12,597,728

119

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(iv)  Maturity analysis (financial liabilities and derivatives)

The table below summarizes the maturity profile of the Group’s financial liabilities at 31 December based on contractual 
undiscounted repayment obligations.

Gross 
undiscounted 
cash flows

Carrying  
amount

Less than  
1 month

1-3 months

3 months – 
1 year

1-5 years

More than  
5 years

20,006,985
75,789,543
13,107,134
14,125,676

4,445,636
13,880,596
2,055,339
2,222,083
123,029,338 127,057,013 54,832,375 22,603,654

21,018,672
76,685,385
14,907,263
14,445,693

9,889,605
44,535,786
187,103
219,881

6,187,663
14,031,635
4,800,641
8,169,722
33,189,661

210,670
4,237,368
6,953,485
3,602,303
15,003,826

285,098
-
910,695
231,704
1,427,497

Gross 
undiscounted 
cash flows

Carrying  
amount

Less than  
1 month

1-3 months

3 months – 
 1 year

1-5 years

More than  
5 years

22,530,782
76,296,592
9,524,590
12,043,167
120,395,131

11,148,211
24,001,339
45,794,237
77,685,628
155,456
11,999,211
12,639,842
432,450
126,326,020 57,530,354

4,851,681
11,656,175
303,258
1,481,117
18,292,231

5,542,683
15,125,744
920,432
5,471,222
27,060,081

2,164,738
5,109,472
7,839,350
5,255,053
20,368,613

294,026
-
2,780,715
-
3,074,741

2020

Non-derivative 
financial liabilities
Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Total liabilities

2019

Non-derivative 
financial liabilities
Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Total liabilities

120

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(iv)  Maturity analysis (financial liabilities and derivatives) (continued)

Derivative financial instruments:
Generally, forward foreign exchange contracts are settled on a gross basis and interest rate swaps are settled on a net 
basis.

2020
Derivatives Held for Trading:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts:
Outflow
Inflow

Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow

Derivatives Held as  
Fair Value Hedges:
Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow

Derivatives Held as  
Cash Flow Hedges:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts:
Outflow
Inflow

Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow

Total Outflows
Total Inflows

Total

1-3 months

3 months –  
1 year

1-5 years

More than 5 
years

(24,726,645)
24,273,283

(9,577,210)
9,350,891

(2,863,279)
2,855,802

(8,943,978)
8,724,013

(3,342,178)
3,342,577

(2,383,799)
2,410,152

(3,735)
6,364

(186,217)
193,987

(1,375,220)
1,389,147

(818,627)
820,654

(313,669)
31,580

-
-

(22,800)
2,115

(99,005)
8,792

(191,864)
20,673

(4,664,191)
4,800,575

(1,316,125)
1,384,472

(460,683)
424,242

(2,887,383)
2,991,861

-
-

(392,460)
375,803

(7,352)
4,037
(32,480,764) (10,904,422)
10,745,764

31,891,393

(115,026)
104,552
(3,648,005)
3,580,698

(270,082)
267,214
(13,575,668)
13,381,027

-
-
(4,352,669)
 4,183,904

121

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(iv)  Maturity analysis (financial liabilities and derivatives) (continued)

Derivative financial instruments:
Generally, forward foreign exchange contracts are settled on a gross basis and interest rate swaps are settled on a net 
basis.

2019
Derivatives Held for Trading:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts
Outflow
Inflow

Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow

Derivatives Held as Fair Value 
Hedges:
Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow

Derivatives Held as Cash Flow 
Hedges:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts:
Outflow
Inflow

Interest rate swaps:

Outflow
Inflow
Total Outflows
Total Inflows

Total

1-3 months

3 months –  
1 year

1-5 years

More than 5 
years

(23,838,530)
23,884,092

(7,255,454)
7,327,951

(2,133,677)
2,135,873

(9,976,329)
9,947,720

(4,473,070)
4,472,548

(806,861)
826,333

(159)
1,661

(3,665)
9,207

(267,615)
279,601

(535,422)
535,864

(348,207)
304,973

(3,902)
4,506

(17,550)
14,934

(89,924)
76,081

(236,831)
209,452

(2,399,405)
2,233,481

(28,455)
15,210
(27,421,458)
27,264,089

-
-

(87,966)
15,137

(2,311,439)
2,218,344

-
-

(9,111)
5,003
(7,268,626)
7,339,121

(19,344)
10,207
(2,262,202)
2,185,358

-
-
(12,645,307)
12,521,746

-
-
(5,245,323)
5,217,864

122

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

(v)  Off-balance sheet items

The table below summarizes contractual expiry dates of the Group’s off - financial position financial instruments:

2020

Below 1 Year

Above 1 Year

Total

Loan commitments
Guarantees and other financial facilities
Capital commitments
Total liabilities

2019

Loan commitments
Guarantees and other financial facilities
Capital commitments
Total liabilities

1,914,115
8,339,842
127,548
10,381,505

2,551,019
11,740,402
-
14,291,421

4,465,134
20,080,244
127,548
24,672,926

Below 1 Year

Above 1 Year

Total

1,854,247
12,131,603
421,352
14,407,202

2,433,624
10,928,886
-
13,362,510

4,287,871
23,060,489
421,352
27,769,712

(d)  Market risk

The Group takes exposure to market risk, which is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument 
will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Market risks arise from open positions in interest rate, currency and 
equity products, all of which are exposed to general and specific market movements and changes in the level of volatility 
of market rates or prices such as interest rates, credit spreads, foreign exchange rates and equity prices. The Group 
separates exposures to market risk into either trading or non-trading portfolios and by product type.

The market risks arising from trading and non-trading activities are concentrated in Group Treasury and monitored by two 
teams separately. Regular reports are submitted to the Board of Directors and heads of each business unit.

Trading portfolios include those positions arising from market-making transactions where the Group acts as principal with 
clients or with the market.

Non-trading portfolios primarily arise from the interest rate management of the entity’s retail and commercial banking 
assets and liabilities. Non-trading portfolios also consist of foreign exchange and sovereign bond investments.

123

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(i)  Management of market risks

Overall authority for market risk is vested in ALCO. Group Market Risk is responsible for the development of detailed 
risk  management  policies  (subject  to  review  and  approval  by  ALCO)  and  for  the  day-to-day  review  of  their 
implementation.

The Group’s proprietary investments are managed according to the Group’s internal investment policy, which has 
been approved by the Board of Directors and drafted in accordance with the Qatar Central Bank guidelines. The 
Group’s trading activities are conducted by Treasury and Investments Division. These activities are subject to business 
line  guidelines  and  policies.  The  Group  employs  several  techniques  to  measure  and  control  activities  including 
sensitivity analysis, position limits and risk based limits.

Investment proposals are approved at the Investment Committee and decisions driven by the investment strategy, 
which is developed by the business line under ALCO oversight and approved by the Board.

(ii)  Exposure to interest rate risk – non – trading portfolio

The principal risk to which non-trading portfolios are exposed is the risk of loss from fluctuations in the future cash 
flows or fair values of financial instruments because of a change in market interest rates. Interest rate risk is managed 
principally through monitoring interest rate gaps and by having pre-approved limits for repricing bands. ALCO is the 
monitoring body for compliance with these limits and is assisted by Group Treasury in its day-to-day monitoring 
activities.

The Group takes on exposure to the effects of fluctuations in the prevailing levels of market interest rates on both its 
fair value and cash flow risks. Interest margins may increase as a result of such changes but may reduce losses in the 
event that unexpected movements arise. The Board sets limits on the level of mismatch of interest rate repricing that 
may be undertaken, which is monitored daily by Group Treasury.

The Asset and Liability Management (“ALM”) process, managed through ALCO, is used to manage interest rate risk 
associated  with  non-trading  financial  instruments.  Interest  rate  risk  represents  the  most  significant  market  risk 
exposure to the Group’s non-trading financial instruments.

The Group’s goal is to manage interest rate sensitivity so that movements in interest rates do not adversely affect net 
interest income. Interest rate risk is measured as the potential volatility to the net interest rate income caused by 
changes  in  market  interest  rates.  The  Group  typically  manages  the  interest  rate  risk  of  its  non-trading  financial 
instruments by segmenting these assets and liabilities into two broad portfolios: non–discretionary and discretionary. 
The non-discretionary portfolio consists of the Group’s customer driven loans and deposit positions and securities 
required to support regulatory requirements. To manage the resulting interest rate sensitivity of the Group’s non-
discretionary portfolio, the Group uses a discretionary portfolio of securities, long dated deposits, inter-bank takings 
and placements, and when warranted, derivatives. Strategically positioning the discretionary portfolio, the Group 
largely manages the interest rate sensitivity in the non-discretionary portfolio.

The following table summarizes the interest sensitivity position at year end, by reference to the re-pricing period or 
maturity of the Group’s assets and liabilities.

124

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(ii)  Exposure to interest rate risk – non – trading portfolio (continued)

A summary of the Group’s interest rate gap position on non-trading balances are as follows:

Repricing in:

Carrying  
amount

Less than 3 

months 3-12 months

1-5 years

More than  
5 years

Non- 
interest 
sensitive

Effective 
interest 
rate %

8,278,537

2,796,073

-

10,401,014

7,003,679

3,397,335

-

-

-

-

5,482,464

-

96,698,098

40,328,884

49,004,989

3,140,173

835,460

3,388,592

-

1.79%

4.91%

25,778,211

1,583,294

3,507,324

8,935,315

9,910,557

1,841,721

4.28%

3,116,557

9,333,298

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,116,557

9,333,298

153,605,715

51,711,930

55,909,648

12,075,488

10,746,017

23,162,632

(20,006,985)

(14,276,504)

(5,730,481)

-

(75,789,543)

(43,060,955)

(13,857,373)

(4,185,942)

-

-

(13,107,134)
(14,125,676)
(8,405,896)
(22,170,481)

(1,422,763)
(2,182,560)
-
-
(153,605,715) (60,942,782)

(4,287,073)
(11,688,594)
-
-
(35,563,521)

(6,033,550)
(190,619)
-
-
(10,410,111)

(1,363,748)
(63,903)
-
-
(1,427,651)

-

(14,685,273)

-
-
(8,405,896)
(22,170,481)
(45,261,650)

-

-

(9,230,852)

20,346,127

1,665,377

9,318,366 (22,099,018)

(9,230,852)

11,115,275

12,780,652

22,099,018

-

-

-

-

1.79%

2.42%

3.81%
2.40%
-
-
-

-

-

2020

Cash and balances 
with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and 
advances to 
customers
Investment 
securities
Investment in 
associates and a 
joint arrangement
Property and 
equipment and all 
other assets

Due to banks
Customer 
deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Equity

Interest rate 
sensitivity gap
Cumulative 
Interest rate 
sensitivity gap

125

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(ii)  Exposure to interest rate risk – non – trading portfolio (continued)

A summary of the Group’s interest rate gap position on non-trading balances are as follows:

Repricing in:

Carrying  
amount

Less than 3 
months

3-12 months

1-5 years

More than  
5 years

Non- 
interest 
sensitive

Effective 
interest 
rate %

6,075,044

2,392,663

-

12,396,433

8,115,209

4,281,224

-

-

-

-

3,682,381

-

-

3.01%

88,009,448

37,268,422

43,780,437

4,785,851

705,096

1,469,642

6.67%

26,844,226

1,621,866

2,895,737

11,659,216

10,231,329

436,078

4.73%

4,021,239

10,190,094

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,021,239

10,190,094

147,536,484

49,398,160

50,957,398

16,445,067

10,936,425

19,799,434

(22,530,782)

(15,918,496)

(6,612,286)

-

(76,296,592)

(44,590,651)

(15,265,298)

(5,013,065)

-

-

-

(11,427,578)

(9,524,590)
(12,043,167)
(5,385,126)
(21,756,227)
(147,536,484)

(441,156)
(2,434,614)
(97,059)
-
(63,481,976)

(1,064,513)
(9,529,003)
(30,449)
-
(32,501,549)

(6,757,695)
(79,550)
(19,197)
-
(11,869,507)

(1,261,226)
-
(65,236)
-

-
-
(5,173,185)
(21,756,227)
(1,326,462) (38,356,990)

-

-

(14,083,816)

18,455,849

4,575,560

9,609,963 (18,557,556)

(14,083,816)

4,372,033

8,947,593

18,557,556

-

-

-

-

3.61%

3.71%

3.95%
3.84%
-
-
-

-

-

2019

Cash and balances 
with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and 
advances to 
customers
Investment 
securities
Investment in 
associates and a 
joint arrangement
Property and 
equipment and all 
other assets

Due to banks
Customer 
deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Equity

Interest rate 
sensitivity gap
Cumulative 
Interest rate 
sensitivity gap

126

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(ii)  Exposure to interest rate risk – non – trading portfolio (continued)

Sensitivity analysis
The management of interest rate risk against interest rate gap limits is supplemented by monitoring the sensitivity of 
the Group’s financial assets and liabilities to various standard and non-standard interest rate scenarios. Standard 
scenarios that are considered on a monthly basis include a 25 basis point (bp) parallel fall or rise in all yield curves 
worldwide and a 25 bp rise or fall in the greater than 12-month portion of all yield curves. An analysis of the Group’s 
sensitivity to an increase or decrease in market interest rates, assuming no a symmetrical movement in yield curves 
and a constant financial position, is as follows:

Sensitivity of net interest income
2020
At 31 December
Average for the year

2019
At 31 December
Average for the year

Sensitivity to reported Fair value reserve in equity of interest rate 
movements
2020
At 31 December
Average for the year

2019
At 31 December
Average for the year

25 bp parallel 
increase

25 bp parallel 
decrease

82,764
46,964

(82,764)
(46,964)

8,919
22,696

(8,919)
(22,696)

25 bp parallel 
increase

25 bp parallel 
decrease

757
464

172
88

(757)
(464)

(172)
(88)

Interest rate movements affect reported equity in the following ways:
• 

Retained earnings arising from increases or decreases in net interest income and the fair value changes reported 
in profit or loss; and
Fair value reserves arising from increases or decreases in fair values of debt securities which are reported 
directly in other comprehensive income.

• 

Overall non-trading interest rate risk positions are managed by Group Treasury, which uses investment securities, 
advances to banks, deposits from banks and derivative instruments to manage the overall position arising from the 
Group’s non-trading activities.

127

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(ii)  Exposure to interest rate risk – non – trading portfolio (continued)

Inter Bank Offered Rate (IBOR) Reforms
Effective from 1 January 2020, the Group has implemented amendments to IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, IAS 39 
Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments Disclosures relating to interest 
rate benchmark reforms. The amendments (referred as Phase I of IBOR transition project) provide temporary reliefs 
which enable hedge accounting to continue during the period of uncertainty before the replacement of an existing 
interest rate benchmark with an alternative nearly risk-free interest rate (an “RFR”). A hedging relationship is affected 
if interest rate benchmark reform gives rise to uncertainties about the timing and or amount of benchmark-based 
cash flows of the hedged item or the hedging instrument. Such uncertainty may impact the hedging relationship, for 
example  its  effectiveness  assessment  and  highly  probable  assessment.  The  reliefs  cease  to  apply  once  certain 
conditions are met. These include when the uncertainty arising from IBOR reform is no longer present with respect to 
the  timing  and  amount  of  the  benchmark-based  cash  flows  of  the  hedged  item,  if  the  hedging  relationship  is 
discontinued or once amounts in the cash flow hedge reserve have been released.

The  Bank  has  IBOR  exposure  to  LIBOR  linked  contracts  for  Loans,  Bank  Borrowings,  Repurchase  agreements, 
Derivatives and Debt issuances that mature beyond the end of 2021 and are generally expected to transition to RFRs. 
The Bank has established a cross-functional IBOR steering committee sponsored by the Executive Management 
which is evaluating the IBORs related exposure, managing the transition activities to the alternative reference rates, 
engagement with various stakeholders to support an orderly transition and to mitigate the risks resulting from the 
transition. It provides periodic reports to ALCO and Central Treasury to support management of interest rate risk, and 
works closely with the Group Operational Risk Committee to identify operational risks arising from IBOR reform. The 
project is under the governance of the Chief Risk Officer.

The IBOR steering committee is in the process of establishing policies for amending the interbank offered rates on its 
existing floating-rate financial assets and liabilities indexed to IBORs that will be replaced as part of IBOR reforms. The 
Bank expects that certain exposures such as retail products, will be amended in a uniform way. However, the Bank 
expects to participate in bilateral negotiations with the counterparties in its bespoke products, such as Loans and 
Advances issued to corporates. The Bank expects to begin amending the contractual terms of its existing floating-rate 
assets in the 2021; however, the exact timing will vary depending on the extent to which standardized language can 
be applied across certain asset types and the extent of bilateral negotiations between the Bank and counterparties. 
Further, the IBOR Committee and the Bank’s treasury team are in discussions with the counterparties of our financial 
liabilities to amend the contractual terms in preparation for IBOR reform.

The Group holds derivatives for risk management purposes, some of which are designated in hedging relationships. 
The interest rate and foreign exchange derivative instruments have floating legs that are indexed to various IBORs. 
Currently, the desired substitute rates are the Sterling Overnight Index Average (SONIA) for GBP LIBOR and Secured 
Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) for USD LIBOR.

128

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(iii)  Exposure to other market risks – non-trading portfolios

Foreign currency transactions
The Group monitors any concentration risk in relation to any individual currency in regard to the translation of foreign 
currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities. The table shows the net foreign currency exposure by 
major currencies at the end of the reporting period along with the sensitivities if there were to be a change in the 
currency exchange rate.

Net foreign currency exposure:

Pound Sterling
Euro
USD
Other currencies

5% increase in currency exchange rate

Pound Sterling
Euro
USD
Other currencies

2020

2019

(297,932)
(2,283,393)
(15,635,579)
(65,988)

(498,768)
(324,782)
(8,241,260)
2,058,159

Increase (decrease) in  
fair value reserve

2020

-
-
-
32,153

2019

-
-
-
-

Increase (decrease) in  
profit or loss
2020

2019

(14,897)
(114,170)
(781,779)
(3,299)

(24,938)
(16,239)
(412,063)
102,908

Open exchange position in other currencies represents Group’s investment in associates and a joint arrangement 
denominated in OMR and AED.

Equity price risk
Equity price risk is the risk that the fair value of equities decreases as a result of changes in the equity indices and 
individual stocks. The non-trading equity price risk exposure arises from equity securities classified as fair value 
through other comprehensive income. A 10 per cent increase in the Qatar Exchange market index at 31 December 
2020 would have increased equity by QAR Nil (2019: QAR Nil). An equivalent decrease would have resulted in an 
equivalent but opposite impact.

129

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(d)  Market risks (continued)

(iii)  Exposure to other market risks – non-trading portfolios (continued)

Equity price risk (continued)
The Group is also exposed to equity price risk and the sensitivity analysis there of is as follows:

Increase / (decrease) in other comprehensive income:
Qatar Exchange

2020

2019

-

-

The  above  analysis  has  been  prepared  on  the  assumption  that  all  other  variables  such  as  interest  rate,  foreign 
exchange rate, etc. are held constant and is based on historical correlation of the equity securities to the relevant 
index. Actual movement may be different from the one stated above and is subject to impairment assessment at the 
end of each reporting period.

(e)  Operational risks

Operational risk is the risk of direct or indirect loss arising from a wide variety of causes associated with the Group’s 
involvement with financial instruments, including processes, personnel, technology and infrastructure, and from external 
factors other than credit, market and liquidity risks such as those arising from legal and regulatory requirements and 
generally accepted standards of corporate behavior.

The Group’s objective is to manage operational risk so as to balance the avoidance of financial losses and damage to the 
Group’s reputation with overall cost effectiveness and to avoid Control procedures that restrict initiative and creativity.

The primary responsibility for the development and implementation of controls to address Operational risk is assigned to 
senior management within each business unit. This responsibility is supported by the development of overall Group 
standards for the management of operational risk in the following areas:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

requirements for appropriate segregation of duties, including the independent authorization of transactions;
requirements for the reconciliation and monitoring of transactions;
compliance with regulatory and other legal requirements;
documentation of controls and procedures;
requirements for the periodic assessment of operational risks faced, and the adequacy of controls and procedures 
to address the risks identified;
requirements for the reporting of operational losses and proposed remedial action;
development of contingency plans;
training and professional development;
ethical and business standards; and
risk mitigation, including insurance where this is effective.

130

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(f)  Capital management

Regulatory capital
The Group’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to ensure investor, creditor and market confidence and to 
sustain future development of the business. The impact of the level of capital on equity holders’ return is also recognized 
and the Group recognizes the need to maintain a balance between the higher returns that might be possible with greater 
gearing and the advantages and security afforded by a sound capital position.

The  Group  and  its  individually  regulated  operations  have  complied  with  all  externally  imposed  capital  requirements 
throughout  the  period.  The  Capital  Adequacy  Ratio  (CAR)  of  the  group  is  calculated  in  accordance  with  the  Basel 
Committee guidelines as adopted by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). From 1st January 2014 QCB adopted Basel III guidelines for 
CAR calculation.

The Group’s regulatory capital position under Basel III QCB regulations as at 31 December was as follows:

Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1) Capital
Additional Tier 1 Capital
Tier 1 Capital
Tier 2 Capital
Total Eligible Capital

Risk Weighted Assets for Credit Risk
Risk Weighted Assets for Market Risk
Risk Weighted Assets for Operational Risk
Total Risk Weighted Assets

Total Capital Ratio

Basel III
2020

Basel III
2019

14,122,195
4,000,000
18,122,195
2,404,946
20,527,141

13,020,429
3,962,723
16,983,152
2,282,590
19,265,742

105,900,553
2,173,161
7,459,902
115,533,616

108,221,142
2,559,342
7,026,182
117,806,666

17.77%

16.35%

131

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
4.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)

(f)  Capital management (continued)

CET 1 ratio 
Without 
Capital 
Conservation 
buffer

CET 1 ratio 
Including 
Capital 
Conservation 
buffer

Tier 1 capital 
ratio including 
capital 
conservation 
buffer

Tier 1 and 2 
capital ratio 
including 
capital 
conservation 
buffer

Total capital 
including 
capital 
conservation 
buffer and 
DSIB’ buffer

Total capital 
including 
conservation 
buffer, DSIB’ 
buffer and 
ICAAP Pillar II 
capital charge

2020
Actual
Minimum QCB limit

2019
Actual
Minimum QCB limit

12.22%
6.00%

12.22%
8.50%

15.69%
10.50%

17.77%
12.50%

17.77%
13.00%

17.77%
14.00%

11.05%
6.00%

11.05%
8.50%

14.42%
10.50%

16.35%
12.50%

16.35%
13.00%

16.35%
14.00%

5.  USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS

(a)  Key sources of estimation uncertainty

The Group makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities. Estimates and 
judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of 
future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

(i)  Going concern

The Group’s management has made an assessment of the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern and is 
satisfied  that  the  Group  has  resources  to  continue  in  the  business  for  the  foreseeable  future.  Furthermore,  the 
management is not aware of any material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt upon the Group’s ability to 
continue as a going concern. Therefore, the financial statements continue to be prepared on the going concern basis.

(ii)  Allowances for credit losses

Assessment of whether credit risk on the financial assets has increased significantly since initial recognition and 
incorporation of forward looking information in the measurement of ECL, refer to note 4(b)(viii).

(iii)  Determing fair values

The determination of fair value for financial assets and liabilities for which there is no observable market price requires 
the use of valuation techniques as described in the accounting policy. For financial instruments that trade infrequently 
and have little price transparency, fair value is less objective, and requires varying degrees of judgement depending 
on liquidity, concentration, uncertainty of market factors, pricing assumptions and other risks affecting the specific 
instrument.

132

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.  USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS (continued)

(a)  Key sources of estimation uncertainty (continued)

(iii)  Determing fair values (continued)

Where  the  fair  values  of  financial  assets  and  financial  liabilities  cannot  be  derived  from  active  markets,  they  are 
determined using a variety of valuation techniques that include the use of mathematical models. The inputs to these 
models are taken from observable markets where possible, but where this is not feasible, a degree of judgment is 
required  in  establishing  fair  values.  The  judgments  include  considerations  of  liquidity  and  model  inputs  such  as 
correlation and volatility for longer dated derivatives.

(iv)  Goodwill impairment

Goodwill  is  tested  annually  for  impairment  or  more  frequently  if  events  or  changes  in  circumstances  indicate  a 
potential impairment; assets are grouped together into smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from 
continuing use that is largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or Cash Generating Units (CGUs). 
Goodwill arising from a business combination is allocated to the CGU which is expected to benefit from the synergies 
of the combination.

The ‘recoverable amount’ of an asset or CGU is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. ‘Value 
in use’ is based on the estimated future cash flows, discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that 
reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset or CGU.

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount.

Impairment losses are recognized in profit or loss. They are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any 
goodwill allocated to the CGU, and then to reduce the carrying amounts of the other assets in the CGU on a pro rata 
basis.

(b)  Critical accounting judgements in applying the Group’s accounting policies

(i)  Valuation of financial instruments

The Group’s accounting policy on fair value measurements is discussed in the significant accounting policies section.

The Group measures fair values using the following fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used 
in making the measurements.

• 

• 

• 

Level 1: Inputs that are quoted market prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical instruments.

Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level1 that are observable either directly (i.e.as prices) 
or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices). This category includes instruments valued using: quoted market prices in 
active markets for similar instruments; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are 
considered less than active; or other valuation techniques in which all significant inputs are directly or indirectly 
observable from market data.

Level 3: Inputs that are unobservable. This category includes all instruments for which the valuation technique 
includes inputs not based on observable data and the unobservable inputs have a significant effect on the 
instrument’s valuation. This category includes instruments that are value based on quoted prices for similar 
instruments for which significant unobservable adjustments or assumptions are required to reflect differences 
between the instruments.

133

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.  USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS (continued)

(b)  Critical accounting judgements in applying the Group’s accounting policies (continued)

(i)  Valuation of financial instruments (continued)

Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities that are traded in active markets are based on quoted market 
prices or dealer price quotations. For all other financial instruments, the Group determines fair values using valuation 
techniques. Valuation techniques include net present value and discounted cash flow models and comparison to 
similar instruments for which market observable prices exist.

The table below analyses financial instruments measured at fair value at the end of the reporting period, by the level 
in the fair value hierarchy into which the fair value measurement is categorised:

2020
Derivative assets
Investment securities

Derivative liabilities

2019
Derivative assets
Investment securities

Derivative liabilities

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

-
2,284,663
2,284,663
-
-

-
1,004,890
1,004,890
-
-

1,621,501
4,874,555
6,496,056
1,059,829
1,059,829

764,320
5,651,830
6,416,150
526,643
526,643

-
36,320
36,320
-
-

-
29,102
29,102
-
-

Carrying 
amount

1,621,501
7,195,538
8,817,039
1,059,829
1,059,829

764,320
6,685,822
7,450,142
526,643
526,643

There have been no transfers between level 1 and level 2
Reconciliation of level 3 investments are as follows:

Balance at 1 January
Cost movement
Profit and loss movement
Fair value reserve movement
Balance at 31 December

2020

2019

29,102
26,729
(19,511)
-
36,320

164,951
(68,340)
(16,934)
(50,575)
29,102

134

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.  USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS (continued)

(b)  Critical accounting judgements in applying the Group’s accounting policies (continued)

(ii)  Financial asset and liability classification

Assessment of the business model within which the assets are held and assessment of whether the contractual 
terms of the financial asset are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. Refer 
to note 3 (d) (ii) for further information.

(iii)  Qualifying hedge relationships

In designating financial instruments in qualifying hedge relationships, the Group has determined that it expects the 
hedges to be highly effective over the period of the hedging relationship.

(iv)  Impairment of investments in equity and debt securities

Assessment  of  whether  credit  risk  on  the  financial  asset  has  increased  significantly  since  initial  recognition  and 
incorporation of forward –looking information in the measurement of ECL. Refer to note 4 (b) (viii) Inputs, assumptions 
and techniques used for estimating impairment of financial assets for more information.

(v)  Useful life of intangible assets

The Group’s management determines the estimated useful life of its intangible assets for calculating amortization. 
This estimate is determined after considering the expected economic benefits from the use of intangible assets.

(vi)  Fair value of land and buildings

The fair value of land and building is determined by valuations from an external professional real estate valuer using 
recognized valuation techniques and the principles of IFRS 13 “Fair Value Measurement”.

(vii)  Leases - Estimating the incremental borrowing rate

The Group uses its incremental borrowing rate (IBR) to measure lease liabilities. The IBR is the rate of interest that the 
Group would have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with a similar security, the funds necessary to obtain an 
asset of a similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment. The IBR therefore reflects what 
the Group ‘would have to pay’, which requires estimation when no observable rates are available or when they need 
to be adjusted to reflect the terms and conditions of the lease. The Group estimates the IBR using observable inputs 
(such as market interest rates).

135

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS

For  management  purposes,  the  Group  is  divided  into  four  operating  segments,  which  are  based  on  business  lines, 
together with its associates and a joint arrangement companies, as follows:

Qatar operations:

1.  Wholesale Banking provides an extensive range of conventional funded and non-funded credit facilities, demand 
and time deposit services, currency exchange facilities, interest rate swaps and other derivative trading services, loan 
syndication and structured financing services to corporate, commercial and multinational customers. Money market 
funds and proprietary investment portfolio are also managed by this operating segment.

2.  Retail Banking provides personal current, savings, time and investment account services, credit card and debit card 
services,  consumer  and  vehicle  loans,  residential  mortgage  services,  custodial  services  to  retail  and  individual 
customers and brokerage services provided by Commercialbank Financial Services L.L.C. wholly owned subsidiary 
operating in Qatar.

3.  Others include subsidiaries and joint arrangement operating in Qatar.

International:
4.  Alternatif Bank: A subsidiary that provides banking services through its branch network in Turkey. Alternatif bank 

also has its subsidiaries. The Group reported Abank group result under this operating segment.

5. 

Investment in associates includes strategic investments in the National Bank of Oman in the Sultanate of Oman, 
United Arab Bank in the United Arab Emirates.

All Associates and joint arrangement Companies are accounted for under the equity method.

Unallocated assets, liabilities and revenues are related to certain central functions and non-core business operations. (For 
example, Group headquarters, common property & equipment, cash functions and net of intra-group transactions).

Management monitors the results of the operating segments separately to make decisions about resource allocation and 
performance assessment. Transfer prices between operating segments are on an arm’s length basis.

136

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(a)  By operating segment

Segment  assets  and  liabilities  comprise  operating  assets  and  liabilities  which  are  directly  handled  by  the  operating 
segment and income or expenses are attributed with the assets and liabilities’ ownership. The following table summarizes 
performance of the operating segments:

2020

Qatar Operations

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Others International

Unallocated 
and Intra-
group 
transactions

Total

1,926,142

447,666

881,452

553,259

282

-

292,259

113,744

-

3,100,135

22,329

1,136,998

2,373,808

1,434,711

282

406,003

22,329

4,237,133

(31,899)

-

(984,886)

158,403

-

-

(142)

(125,027)

-

-

(32,041)

(951,510)

986,118

1,080,017

4,749

57,517

(25,939)

2,102,462

-

-

-

-

986,118

1,080,017

-

(591,242)

(212,534)

2,528

7,277

-

-

(591,242)

(210,006)

(746,259)

(25,939)

1,301,214

Net interest income
Net fee, commission and 
other income
Segmental revenue
Net Impairment losses on 
investment securities
Net impairment loss on loans 
and advances to customers 
and other financial assets
Segmental profit
Impairment for investment in 
an associate
Share of results of associates 
and a joint arrangement
Net profit for the period

Other information
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investments in associates 
and a joint arrangement
Assets (other than above)

73,792,143

11,265,125

-

11,640,830

- 96,698,098

-

-

7,952

3,108,605

-

3,116,557

39,098,828

1,494,733

90,243

6,570,806

Customer deposits
Liabilities (other than above)

41,774,265
45,563,122

25,075,689
2,166,967

-
1,065

8,939,589
7,797,358

Contingent items

18,987,074

1,071,245

-

4,487,059

-

6,536,450 53,791,060
153,605,715
75,789,543
117,179 55,645,691
131,435,234
24,545,378

-

Intra-group  transactions  are  eliminated  from  this  segmental  information  (Assets:  QAR  2,409  million,  Liabilities:  
QAR 1,347 million).

137

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(a)  By operating segment (continued)

2019

Qatar Operations

Net interest income
Net fee, commission and 
other income
Segmental revenue
Net impairment reversals / 
(losses) on investment 
securities
Net impairment loss on loans 
and advances to customers 
and other financial assets
Segmental profit
Impairment for investment in 
an associate
Share of results of associates 
and a joint arrangement
Net profit for the period

Other information
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investments in associates 
and a joint arrangement
Assets (other than above)

Wholesale 

Banking Retail Banking

Others

International

1,658,244

671,412

987,991

578,031

2,329,656

1,566,022

6,856

-

158

1

159

-

383,831

189,876

573,707

(59)

(204,912)

(240,822)

28

(214,829)

1,788,776

809,248

4,144

100,126

(260,573)

-

-

-

-

1,788,776

809,248

-

(413,881)

(9,370)

2,571

6,715

(323,125)

(260,573)

2,021,041

58,349,751

18,125,456

-

11,534,241

- 88,009,448

-

-

7,924

4,013,315

-

4,021,239

41,446,278

1,389,525

297,193

4,434,806

Unallocated 
and Intra-
group 
transactions

Total

(67,041)

2,963,183

(55,858)

1,383,462

(122,899)

4,346,645

-

-

-

-

6,797

(660,535)

2,441,721

(413,881)

(6,799)

7,937,995

-

55,505,797
147,536,484
76,296,592
103,946 49,483,665
125,780,257
27,348,360

-

Customer deposits
Liabilities (other than above)

43,306,921
41,202,171

23,282,182
868,859

20,991
30,321

9,686,498
7,278,368

Contingent items

22,080,759

224,543

560,000

4,483,058

Intra-group  transactions  are  eliminated  from  this  segmental  information  (Assets:  QAR  2,789  million,  Liabilities:  
QAR 1,262 million).

138

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(b)  By geography

Consolidated statement 
of financial position
2020

Cash and balances with 
central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investment securities
Investment in associates 
and a joint arrangement
Property and equipment 
and all other assets
Total assets

Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Equity
Total liabilities and 
equity

Other GCC 
countries

Other 
Middle East

Qatar

Europe

North 
America

Rest of the 
world

Total

6,503,599

-

1,774,938

-

-

-

8,278,537

989,234

200,843

3,095,675

2,796,577

2,639,510

679,175

10,401,014

74,937,510

210,530

18,229,926

849,025

125,555

2,345,552 96,698,098

18,957,962

534,775

4,932,909

43,020

201,790

1,107,755

25,778,211

7,952

3,108,605

-

8,177,819

-

1,155,346

-

-

-

-

-

3,116,557

133

9,333,298

109,574,076 4,054,753 29,188,794 3,688,622

2,966,855

4,132,615 153,605,715

6,137,077
53,368,020
-
485,639
7,337,001
20,968,798

1,851,087
1,828,676
-
1,501,959
-
-

738,059 10,003,894
4,467,046
8,967,145
11,814,989
1,292,145
4,086,530
3,186,509
-
1,067,831
-
1,201,683

56,470
1,187,311
-
1,458,942
-
-

1,220,398 20,006,985
75,789,543
5,971,345
13,107,134
-
14,125,676
3,406,097
8,405,896
1,064
22,170,481
-

88,296,535

5,181,722 16,453,372 30,372,459

2,702,723 10,598,904 153,605,715

139

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(b)  By geography (continued)

Other GCC 
countries

Other 
Middle East

Qatar

Europe

North 
America

Rest of the 
world

Total

3,093,161

(11,366)

658,626

(551,387)

(39,893)

(49,006)

3,100,135

922,504

99,338

144,013

(30,802)

232

1,713

1,136,998

4,015,665
(518,432)
(116,889)

(48,268)

(31,899)

(719,021)

(107,461)

87,972
-
-

-

-

-

-

802,639
(114,167)
(23,456)

(10,127)

(142)

(117,365)

(7,663)

-

(591,242)

-

(40,177)
(202,653)

-
-

-
(62,284)

(582,189)
-
-

(39,661)
-
-

(47,293)
-
-

4,237,133
(632,599)
(140,345)

(58,395)

(32,041)

(836,386)

(115,124)

(591,242)

-

-

-

-

-

-
(101)

(40,177)
(265,038)

-

-

-

-

-

-
-

-

-

-

-

-

-
-

2,230,865

(503,270)

467,435

(582,189)

(39,661)

(47,394)

1,525,786

2,528

(212,534)

-

-

-

-

(210,006)

2,233,393

(715,804)

467,435

(582,189)

(39,661)

(47,394)

1,315,780

(759)
2,232,634

-
(715,804)

(13,282)
454,153

-
(582,189)

-
(39,661)

(525)
(47,919)

(14,566)
1,301,214

Consolidated statement 
of income
Year ended  
31 December 2020
Net interest income
Net fee, commission and 
other income
Net operating income
Staff cost
Depreciation
Amortization of 
intangible assets
Net impairment losses 
on investment securities
Net impairment loss on 
loans and advances to 
customers
Net impairment losses 
on other financial assets
Impairment on 
Investment in an 
Associate
Other Provision
Other expenses
Profit before share of 
results of associates and 
a joint arrangement
Share of results of 
associates and a joint 
arrangement
Profit for the year before 
tax
Income tax expenses
Net profit for the year

140

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(b)  By geography (continued)

Consolidated statement of 
financial position
2019
Cash and balances with 
central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investment securities
Investment in associates 
and a joint arrangement
Property and equipment 
and all other assets
Total assets

Other GCC 
countries

Other Middle 
East

Qatar

Europe

North 
America

Rest of the 
world

Total

4,431,379

-

1,643,665

-

-

-

6,075,044

4,275,094

675,608 4,089,664

1,364,764

838,935

1,152,368 12,396,433

73,308,248

474,138

13,491,026

596,344

-

139,692 88,009,448

19,951,886

612,636

4,060,018

231,367

594,220

1,394,099 26,844,226

7,924

4,013,315

-

-

8,798,664

15,738

1,163,612

202,962

-

-

-

4,021,239

9,118 10,190,094

110,773,195

5,791,435 24,447,985

2,395,437

1,433,155

2,695,277 147,536,484

Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
Equity
Total liabilities and equity

6,865,322
54,401,976
-
501,300
4,307,492
21,756,217
87,832,307

1,895,718
2,225,789
-
782,157
17,250
-
4,920,914

2,396,674
9,516,489
1,733,336
3,062,483
642,387
10

10,799,162
1,588,987
7,791,254
3,235,029
340,816
-

-
853,982
-
2,196,931
15,154
-
17,351,379 23,755,248 3,066,067

573,906 22,530,782
7,709,369 76,296,592
9,524,590
12,043,167
5,385,126
21,756,227
10,610,569 147,536,484

-
2,265,267
62,027
-

141

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s6.  OPERATING SEGMENTS (continued)

(b)  By geography (continued)

Consolidated statement 
of income
Year ended 31 December 
2019
Net interest income
Net fee, commission and 
other income
Net operating income
Staff cost
Depreciation
Amortization of 
intangible assets
Net impairment (losses) 
/ reversals on 
investment securities
Net impairment loss on 
loans and advances to 
customers
Net impairment losses 
on other financial assets
Impairment on 
Investment in an 
Associate
Other expenses
Profit before share of 
results of associates and 
a joint arrangement
Share of results of 
associates and a joint 
arrangement
Profit for the year 
before tax
Income tax expenses
Net profit for the year

Qatar

Other GCC 
countries

Other Middle 
East

Europe

North 
America

Rest of the 
world

Total

3,464,077

(44,592)

534,091

(598,299)

(47,543)

(344,551)

2,963,183

1,054,288

4,518,365
(663,231)
(125,482)

(46,268)

6,856

68,913

24,321
-
-

-

-

228,124

762,215
(133,112)
(24,512)

(8,755)

(59)

(377,030)

28

(217,425)

(68,704)

-

2,596

-

(413,881)

-

(156,899)

-

(69,517)

10,141

(588,158)
-
-

-

21,996

1,383,462

(47,543)
-
-

(322,555) 4,346,645
(796,352)
(149,994)

(9)
-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(55,023)

6,797

(594,427)

(66,108)

(413,881)

(228)

(226,644)

3,087,607

(389,532)

311,431

(588,158)

(47,543)

(322,792)

2,051,013

2,571

(9,370)

-

-

-

-

(6,799)

3,090,178 (398,902)

311,431

(588,158)

(47,543)

(322,792)

2,044,214

(377)
3,089,801

-
(398,902)

(22,796)
288,635

-
(588,158)

-
(47,543)

-
(322,792)

(23,173)
2,021,041

142

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
7.  FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Accounting classifications and fair values
The table below sets out the carrying amounts and fair values of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities:

Consolidated statement 
of financial position

Fair value through  
Profit & loss

Fair value through other 
comprehensive income

2020

Debt 
instruments

Equity 
instruments

Debt 
instruments

Equity 
instruments

Amortised 
Cost

Total 
carrying 
amount

Fair value

Cash and balances with 
central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investment securities

Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

8,278,537

8,278,537

8,278,537

10,401,014

10,401,014

10,401,014

- 96,698,098 96,698,098

96,698,098

906,755
906,755

127,368
5,549,692
127,368 5,549,692

648,267
25,778,211
18,546,129
648,267 133,923,778 141,155,860

26,373,538
141,751,187

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

- 20,006,985 20,006,985 20,006,985
75,789,543
-
13,358,818
-
-
14,125,676
- 123,029,338 123,029,338 123,281,022

75,789,543 75,789,543
13,107,134
13,107,134
14,125,676
14,125,676

143

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
7.  FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (continued)

Accounting classifications and fair values (continued)
The table below sets out the carrying amounts and fair values of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities:

Consolidated statement of 
financial position

2019

Fair value through  
Profit & loss
Debt 
instruments

Equity 
instruments

Fair value through other 
comprehensive income

Debt 
instruments

Equity 
instruments

Amortised 
Cost

Total carrying 
amount

Fair value

Cash and balances with 
central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to 
customers
Investment securities:

Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

6,075,044

6,075,044

6,075,044

12,396,433

12,396,433

12,396,433

- 88,009,448 88,009,448

88,009,448

1,362,693
1,362,693

430,878
430,878

4,921,729
4,921,729

5,199
20,123,727
5,199 126,604,652

26,844,226
133,325,151

27,063,912
133,544,837

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

22,530,782
76,296,592
9,524,590
12,043,167
120,395,131

22,530,782
76,296,592
9,524,590
12,043,167
120,395,131

22,530,782
76,296,592
9,736,064
12,043,167
120,606,605

8.  CASH AND BALANCES WITH CENTRAL BANKS

Cash
Cash reserve with central banks *
Other balances with central banks

Accrued interest

2020

2019

2,426,565
3,898,915
1,950,130
8,275,610
2,927
8,278,537

824,073
3,619,864
1,629,546
6,073,483
1,561
6,075,044

*  The  cash  reserve  with  central  banks  is  a  mandatory  reserve  and  is  not  available  for  use  in  the  Group’s  day  to  day 
operations.

144

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
9.  DUE FROM BANKS

Current accounts
Placements
Loans to banks

Accrued interest
Allowance for impairment of due from bank

10.  LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS

a)  By type

Loans
Overdrafts
Bills discounted
Bankers acceptances

Deferred profit

Accrued interest
Allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers**
ECL on loans and advances to customers
Net loans and advances to customers*

2020

2019

3,523,796
3,774,293
3,177,253
10,475,342
13,157
(87,485)
10,401,014

2,009,118
6,540,135
3,879,297
12,428,550
8,435
(40,552)
12,396,433

2020

2019

86,134,540
10,674,888
152,870
3,046,190
100,008,488
(4,790)
100,003,698
1,091,022
(2,875,668)
(1,520,954)
96,698,098

79,403,992
9,734,710
303,614
1,480,885
90,923,201
(7,285)
90,915,916
779,204
(2,751,042)
(934,630)
88,009,448

*The  aggregate  amount  of  non-performing  loans  and  advances  to  customers  amounted  QAR  4,327  million  which 
represents 4.3% of total loans and advances to customers (2019: QAR 4,487 million 4.9% of total loans and advances to 
customers).
**Allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers includes QAR 892 million of interest in suspense (2019: 
QAR 711 million).

Modified financing assets
The Group has allowed delayed repayments of certain customers in line with the QCB instructions issued to local banks in 
Qatar. The modification loss on these loans was not considered to be material for the year.

Zero rated repo facility by QCB
QCB has issued zero rated repo facilities to the local banks in Qatar in order to support the banks liquidity who are extending 
loans to affected sectors at reduced rates and guarantees from the government of the State of Qatar. The Bank has not 
utilized zero rated repo facility beyond 15 September 2020.

145

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
10.  LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS (continued)

b)  By sector

2020

Loans

Overdrafts

Bills 
discounted

Bankers 
acceptances

Total

Government and related agencies
Non-banking financial institutions
Industry
Commercial
Services
Contracting
Real estate
Personal
Others

Accrued interest

9,355,381
921,067
8,728,538
12,029,839
23,043,631
2,789,230
20,453,442
6,014,864
2,798,548

7,926,307
10,876
8,445
356,887
411,085
470,797
50,455
1,401,803
38,233
86,134,540 10,674,888

-
-
3,204
12,086
68,142
69,438
-
-
-
152,870

Less: Deferred profit
Allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers
ECL on loans and advances to customers

Net loans and advances to customers

-
-
4,002
1,689,140
971,699
379,298
-
-
2,051

17,281,688
931,943
8,744,189
14,087,952
24,494,557
3,708,763
20,503,897
7,416,667
2,838,832
3,046,190 100,008,488
1,091,022
(4,790)
(2,875,668)
(1,520,954)
(3,310,390)
96,698,098

2019

Government and related agencies
Non-banking financial institutions
Industry
Commercial
Services
Contracting
Real estate
Personal
Others

Accrued interest

Loans

Overdrafts

Bills 
discounted

Bankers 
acceptances

9,194,619
847,212
8,168,393
10,488,416
23,018,547
2,710,789
18,764,910
5,006,804
1,204,302
79,403,992

5,845,271
29,475
8,015
256,924
1,257,758
666,143
237,111
1,407,199
26,814
9,734,710

-
12,618
5,510
52,223
108,689
124,574
-
-
-
303,614

4,049
-
10,423
973,560
231,998
260,232
-
-
623
1,480,885

Less: Deferred profit
Allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers
ECL on loans and advances to customers

Net loans and advances to customers

Total

15,043,939
889,305
8,192,341
11,771,123
24,616,992
3,761,738
19,002,021
6,414,003
1,231,739
90,923,201
779,204
(7,285)
(2,751,042)
(934,630)
(2,913,753)
88,009,448

146

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s10.  LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS (continued)

c)  Movement in allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers

Balance at 1 January
Allowance made during the year
Recoveries / reversals during the year
Net allowance for impairment during the year *
Written off / transferred during the year
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December

2020

2019

3,685,672
1,622,189
(400,348)
1,221,841
(450,479)
(60,412)
4,396,622

3,846,625
1,086,841
(159,670)
927,171
(1,034,840)
(53,284)
3,685,672

*This includes net interest suspended during the year QAR 244.5 million (2019: QAR 212.6 million) as per QCB regulations.

Net impairment losses on loans and advances to customers

Gross allowance made during the year
Less: Recoveries / reversals during the year

Less: Interest suspended during the year
Less: Recoveries on previously written off loans

2020

2019

1,622,189
(400,348)
1,221,841
(244,467)
(140,988)
836,386

1,086,841
(159,670)
927,171
(212,595)
(120,149)
594,427

147

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
10.  LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS (continued)

c)  Movement in allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers (continued)

Stage 1

Commercial Bank
Stage 2

Stage 3

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Alternatif bank

Others

Total

45,023

40,938

716,379

43,822

1,332,104

1,215,927

3,394,193

(23,997)

112,466

191,211

279,680

11,799

3,685,672

-

-

-

-

-

-

159,384
-
-
-
204,407

31,506
-
-
-

292,367
-
-
-
72,444 1,008,746

42,532
-
-
-
86,354

355,116
(96,302)
(279,606)
-
1,311,312

397,290
(99,265)
(168,800)
-
1,345,152

Stage 1

Commercial Bank
Stage 2

Stage 3

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

Wholesale 
Banking

Retail 
Banking

30,393

43,181

680,475

11,938

1,449,129 1,009,833

3,224,949

(23,192)

259,813

373,228

609,849

11,827

3,846,625

481

(481)

(41,060)

41,060

(59,756)

59,756

14,149
-
-
-
45,023

(1,762)
-
-
-
40,938

87,048
-
(10,084)
-
716,379

(9,176)
-
-
-
43,822

250,230
(4,242)
(303,257)
-
1,332,104

446,077
(72,550)
(227,189)
-
1,215,927

786,566

(76,792)

(540,530)

3,394,193

54,931

(64,568)

100,991

(218,257)

8,832

(23,997)

(30,081)

112,466

-

-

144,353

199,975

(494,310)

(32,035)

191,211

300,275

(82,850)

(494,310)

(53,284)

279,680

Subsidiaries

Total 

Alternatif 

Bank

-

343,563

(204,781)

(2,073)

(60,412)

355,977

Subsidiaries

Total 

Alternatif 

Bank

Commercial 

Total 

Bank

1,278,195

(195,567)

(448,406)

4,028,415

Commercial 

Total 

Bank

-

-

-

-

-

75,326

(20,151)

(2,073)

140,732

(115,202)

127,505

(69,428)

2,234

3,767

(25,737)

144,806

(36,909)

207,404

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

431

431

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,622,189

(400,348)

(450,479)

(60,412)

4,396,622

11,799

Total

-

1,086,841

(159,670)

(1,034,840)

(53,284)

3,685,672

-

-

-

-

(28)

11,799

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Alternatif bank

Others

Balance at 1 January 2020
Adjustment due to reclassification 
between segments
Allowance made during the year
Recoveries/reversal during the year
Written off / transferred during the year
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2020

Balance at 1 January 2019
Adjustment due to reclassification 
between segments
Allowance made during the year
Recoveries/reversal during the year
Written off / transferred during the year
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2019

148

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s10.  LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS (continued)

c)  Movement in allowance for impairment of loans and advances to customers (continued)

Stage 1

Commercial Bank

Stage 2

Stage 3

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Balance at 1 January 2020

Adjustment due to reclassification 

between segments

Allowance made during the year

Recoveries/reversal during the year

Written off / transferred during the year

Exchange differences

159,384

31,506

292,367

42,532

355,116

(96,302)

397,290

(99,265)

(279,606)

(168,800)

-

-

-

-

Balance at 31 December 2020

204,407

72,444 1,008,746

86,354

1,311,312

1,345,152

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Stage 1

Commercial Bank

Stage 2

Stage 3

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Wholesale 

Banking

Retail 

Banking

Balance at 1 January 2019

Adjustment due to reclassification 

between segments

Allowance made during the year

Recoveries/reversal during the year

Written off / transferred during the year

Exchange differences

Balance at 31 December 2019

481

14,149

(481)

(41,060)

41,060

(59,756)

59,756

(1,762)

87,048

(9,176)

(10,084)

250,230

(4,242)

(303,257)

-

446,077

(72,550)

(227,189)

-

45,023

40,938

716,379

43,822

1,332,104

1,215,927

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Subsidiaries

45,023

40,938

716,379

43,822

1,332,104

1,215,927

3,394,193

(23,997)

112,466

191,211

279,680

Total 
Commercial 
Bank

Alternatif bank

Total 
Alternatif 
Bank

-

-

-

-

-

1,278,195
(195,567)
(448,406)
-
4,028,415

140,732
(115,202)
-
2,234
3,767

127,505
(69,428)
-
(25,737)
144,806

75,326
(20,151)
(2,073)
(36,909)
207,404

343,563
(204,781)
(2,073)
(60,412)
355,977

Others

Total

-

-

431
-
-
-
431

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

11,799

3,685,672

-

-
-
-
-
11,799

-

1,622,189
(400,348)
(450,479)
(60,412)
4,396,622

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Subsidiaries

30,393

43,181

680,475

11,938

1,449,129 1,009,833

3,224,949

(23,192)

259,813

373,228

609,849

Total 
Commercial 
Bank

Alternatif bank

Total 
Alternatif 
Bank

-

-

-

-

-

786,566
(76,792)
(540,530)
-
3,394,193

54,931
(64,568)
-
8,832
(23,997)

100,991
(218,257)
-
(30,081)
112,466

144,353
199,975
(494,310)
(32,035)
191,211

300,275
(82,850)
(494,310)
(53,284)
279,680

Others

Total

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

-

-

-
-
-
-
-

11,827

3,846,625

-

-
(28)
-
-
11,799

-

1,086,841
(159,670)
(1,034,840)
(53,284)
3,685,672

149

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s11. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI)
Fair value through profit & loss (FVTPL)
Amortised cost (AC)

Accrued interest

2020

2019

6,166,547
1,028,991
18,441,154
25,636,692
141,519
25,778,211

4,899,768
1,786,054
20,012,686
26,698,508
145,718
26,844,226

*The carrying value of investment securities pledged under repurchase agreements (REPO) is QAR 9,947 million (2019: 
QAR 10,610 million).

a)  Fair value through other comprehensive income

Equities
State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities*
Total

Equities
State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities*
Total

Quoted

643,069
4,044,987
1,415,449
6,103,505

Quoted

-
3,624,920
1,215,752
4,840,672

2020
Unquoted

5,199
-
57,843
63,042

2019
Unquoted

5,198
-
53,898
59,096

Total

648,268
4,044,987
1,473,292
6,166,547

Total

5,198
3,624,920
1,269,650
4,899,768

* Fixed rate securities and floating rate securities amounted to QAR 1,171 million and QAR 302 million respectively (2019: 
QAR 1,201 million and QAR 69 million respectively).

150

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
11. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES (continued)

(b)  Fair value through profit & loss

Equities
State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities
Investment funds
Total

Equities
State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities
Investment funds
Total

c)  Amortised Cost

By Issuer

State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities
Total

By Interest Rate

Fixed Rate Securities
Floating Rate Securities
Total

Quoted

105,220
111,000
765,516
6,948
988,684

Quoted

390,718
111,000
1,207,774
7,439
1,716,931

Quoted

14,255,183
3,940,129
18,195,312

Quoted

18,157,936
37,376
18,195,312

2020
Unquoted

22,148
-
-
18,159
40,307

2019
Unquoted

8,321
-
36,400
24,402
69,123

2020
Unquoted

-
245,842
245,842

2020
Unquoted

Total

127,368
111,000
765,516
25,107
1,028,991

Total

399,039
111,000
1,244,174
31,841
1,786,054

Total

14,255,183
4,185,971
18,441,154

Total

245,842
-
245,842

18,403,778
37,376
18,441,154

151

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s11. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES (continued)

c)  Amortised Cost (continued)

By Issuer

State of Qatar debt securities
Debt and other securities
Total

By Interest Rate

Fixed Rate Securities
Floating Rate Securities
Total

Quoted

15,533,030
4,197,774
19,730,804

Quoted

19,577,298
153,506
19,730,804

2019
Unquoted

-
281,882
281,882

2019
Unquoted

Total

15,533,030
4,479,656
20,012,686

Total

281,882
-
281,882

19,859,180
153,506
20,012,686

12.  INVESTMENT IN ASSOCIATES AND A JOINT ARRANGEMENT

The Group’s investment in associates and a joint arrangement are as follows:

Balance at 1 January
Share of results -(note 21)
Cash dividend - (note 21)
Other movements
Impairment of investment in an associate
Balance at 31 December

2020

2019

4,021,239
(210,006)
(92,614)
(10,820)
(591,242)
3,116,557

4,512,940
(6,799)
(93,072)
22,051
(413,881)
4,021,239

152

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
12.  INVESTMENT IN ASSOCIATES AND A JOINT ARRANGEMENT (continued)

Name of the 
Entity

National Bank of 
Oman SAOG 
(‘NBO’)
United Arab Bank 
PJSC (‘UAB’)
 Massoun 
Insurance 
Services L.L.C

Carrying Value and % of interest held

Classification

Country Activities

2020

%

2019

Price  
per share 
(QAR)

%

Associate

Oman

Banking

2,123,044 34.9% 2,163,815

34.9%

1.51

Associate

UAE

Banking

985,561 40.0% 1,849,500 40.0%

0.84

Joint venture

Qatar

Insurance 
brokerage

7,952 50.0%

7,924 50.0% Not listed

3,116,557

4,021,239

Total assets
Total liabilities
Operating income
Net profit
Total comprehensive income
Share of results

2020

2019

49,052,758
42,599,295
1,504,786
(489,645)
(557,932)
(212,534)

53,395,161
46,000,933
1,752,987
38,419
129,713
(9,370)

153

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s13  PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Land and 
buildings

Right of  
use assets

Leasehold 
improvements

Furniture 
and 
equipment

Motor 
vehicles

Capital 
work in 
progress

Total

Cost
Balance at 1 January 2019
Adjustment on transition to IFRS 16
Additions / transfers
Disposals
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2019

2,176,282
-
6,543
(6)
(18,334)
2,164,485

-
142,020
28,981
(4,282)
(1,178)
165,541

Balance at 1 January 2020
Additions / transfers
Disposals
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2020

2,164,485
271,689
(53)
(27,910)
2,408,211

165,541
385,403
(14,025)
(8,293)
528,626

87,769
32,057
(1)
(311)
119,514

119,514
32,630
(53)
(3,422)
148,669

-
34,220
(692)
(603)
32,925

32,925
32,827
(6,811)
(349)
58,592

Accumulated depreciation
Balance at 1 January 2019
Depreciation for the year
Disposals
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2019

Balance at 1 January 2020
Depreciation for the year
Disposals
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2020

Net carrying amounts
Balance at 31 December 2019
Balance at 31 December 2020

118,960
-
7,724
(5,729)
(3,095)
117,860

117,860
5,142
(1,211)
(5,219)
116,572

103,385
3,921
(3,444)
(1,660)
102,202

102,202
4,381
(1,207)
(2,031)
103,345

1,231,564
-
58,274
(5,898)
(6,192)
1,277,748

1,277,748
86,309
(1,323)
(10,735)
1,351,999

1,044,337
79,023
(5,296)
(3,512)
1,114,552

1,114,552
69,293
(1,179)
(5,789)
1,176,877

4,159
-
3,891
(38)
(231)
7,781

426,304
-
66,747
-
-

3,957,269
142,020
172,160
(15,953)
(29,030)
493,051 4,226,466

7,781
8,843
(2)
(1,195)
15,427

(263,650)
-
-

493,051 4,226,466
493,736
(16,614)
(53,352)
229,401 4,650,236

2,865
773
(31)
(46)
3,561

3,561
1,214
-
(286)
4,489

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

1,238,356
149,994
(9,464)
(6,132)
1,372,754

1,372,754
140,345
(9,250)
(11,877)
1,491,972

2,044,971
2,259,542

132,616
470,034

15,658
13,227

163,196
175,122

4,220
10,938

493,051
2,853,712
229,401 3,158,264

Right of use asset pertains to the following:
Land and buildings
Vehicles

2020
469,561
473

2019
131,592
1,024

154

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s14.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Cost
Balance at 1 January 2019
Acquisitions
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2019

Balance at 1 January 2020
Acquisitions
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2020

Amortisation and Impairment
Balance at 1 January 2019
Amortisation during the year
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2019

Balance at 1 January 2020
Amortisation during the year
Exchange differences
Balance at 31 December 2020

Net carrying amounts
Balance at 31 December 2019
Balance at 31 December 2020

Goodwill

Brand

Customer 
relationship

Core 
deposit

Internally 
developed 
software

180,249
-
(20,593)
159,656

159,656
-
(30,819)
128,837

49,800
-
-
49,800

49,800
-
-
49,800

69,401
3,464
(6,976)
65,889

65,889
319
(10,735)
55,473

38,029
3,414
(2,955)
38,488

38,488
3,034
(6,322)
35,200

270,761
-
15,488
286,249

286,249
-
16,334
302,583

184,470
36,892
-
221,362

221,362
38,894
-
260,256

67,713
-
2,758
70,471

70,471
-
2,211
72,682

41,615
8,323
-
49,938

49,938
8,322
-
58,260

29,995
10,716
(2,431)
38,280

38,280
16,659
(7,304)
47,635

21,156
6,394
(2,970)
24,580

24,580
8,145
(3,861)
28,864

Total

618,119
14,180
(11,754)
620,545

620,545
16,978
(30,313)
607,210

335,070
55,023
(5,925)
384,168

384,168
58,395
(10,183)
432,380

109,856
79,037

27,401
20,273

64,887
42,327

20,533
14,422

13,700
18,771

236,377
174,830

Impairment testing for CGU containing goodwill
For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the Group’s CGU-Alternatifbank. A cost of equity of 24.7% 
(2019:  24.7%)  and  a  terminal  growth  rate  of  2.5  %  (2019:  2.5%)  were  used  to  estimate  the  recoverable  amount  of 
Alternatifbank.

The recoverable amount for the CGU has been calculated based on the ‘Value in Use Method’, determined by discounting 
the future cash flows expected to be generated from the continuing use of the CGU. The discount rate was a pre-tax 
measure based on the Government Bonds 10 year yield TL, adjusted for an equity market risk premium and equity beta.

155

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
14.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS (continued)

Five years of cash flows are included in the discounted cash model. A long term growth rate into perpetuity has been 
determined as the lower of the nominal GDP rates for the country in which CGU operate and the long term compound 
annual profit before taxes, depreciation and amortization growth rate estimated by the management. The key assumptions 
described above may change as economic and market conditions change.

No impairment loss is recognized in 2020 Nil (2019: nil) as the recoverable amount of this CGU was determined to be 
higher than its carrying amount.

15.  OTHER ASSETS

Accrued income
Prepaid expenses
Accounts receivable
Repossessed collateral*
Positive fair value of derivatives (note 36)
Clearing cheques
Others

2020

2019

31,345
79,564
610,225
2,995,151
1,621,501
223,651
438,767
6,000,204

69,973
56,441
615,812
4,531,182
764,320
240,094
822,183
7,100,005

*This represents the value of the properties acquired in settlement of debts and subsequent additions, which have been 
stated at their carrying value net of any allowance for impairment and credit enhancement. The estimated market values 
of these properties at the end of the reporting period are not materially different from the carrying values.

16.  DUE TO BANKS

Balances due to central banks
Current accounts
Placement with banks
Repurchase agreements with banks
Accrued interest
Total

2020

2019

1,257,471
547,091
9,073,036
9,015,570
113,817
20,006,985

1,193,687
844,499
11,107,326
9,223,815
161,455
22,530,782

156

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
17.  CUSTOMER DEPOSITS

Current and call deposits
Saving deposits
Time deposits
Accrued interest
Total

Government
Government and semi government agencies
Individuals
Corporate
Non-banking financial institutions

Accrued interest

18.  DEBT SECURITIES

EMTN unsecured Programme – Senior unsecured notes *
Senior Notes*
Subordinated Notes *
Others#
Accrued interest
Total

2020

2019

23,492,174
5,792,621
46,229,937
274,811
75,789,543

18,712,151
4,746,766
52,381,708
455,967
76,296,592

2020

2019

4,316,909
10,953,947
24,561,045
28,904,155
6,778,676
75,514,732
274,811
75,789,543

6,788,520
12,286,077
24,049,009
28,516,188
4,200,831
75,840,625
455,967
76,296,592

2020

2019

10,506,478
199,921
1,089,822
1,269,506
41,407
13,107,134

7,038,935
466,805
1,261,225
727,556
30,069
9,524,590

The following table provides the breakdown of the Debt Securities as at close of 31 December 2020.

157

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
18.  DEBT SECURITIES (continued)

Instrument

Issuer

Issued amount

Issued on Maturity

Coupon

EMTN - Senior notes

CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
CBQ Finance Ltd
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
Alternatifbank
* Issued for and Guaranteed by the Bank
# Others include certificate of deposits issued by the bank.

USD 750 million *
USD 500 million *
CHF 335 million *
CHF 150 million *
CHF 100 million *
USD 36 million *
USD 25 million *
USD 24.9 million *
USD 10 million
USD 10 million*
CNH 171 million*
HKD 660 million*
USD 500 million*
JPY 1 billion*
JPY 1 billion*
JPY 1.5 billion*
USD 10 million*
CHF 185 million*
USD 10 million*
USD 297 million
TL 50 million
TL 13 million
TL 24 million
TL 2.6 million
TL 13.7 million
TL 73.6 million
TL 44.7 million
TL 93.9 million
TL 89.2 million

Subordinated Notes
Senior Notes

Jun-16
May-18
Mar-18
Oct-19
Oct-18
Feb-19
Sep-19
Nov-19
Feb-20
Jun-20
Aug-20
Aug-20
Sep-20
Sep-20
Nov-20
Nov-20
Nov-20
Nov-20
Dec-20
Apr-16
Aug-19
Jul-20
Jul-19
Jul-20
Jul-20
Nov-20
Nov-20
Dec-20
Dec-20

Jun-21
May-23
Mar-21
Oct-23
Oct-22
Feb-24
Sep-22
Nov-21
Feb-25
Jun-22
Aug-23
Aug-25
Sep-25
Sep-23
Nov-23
Nov-23
Nov-23
Nov-24
Dec-23
Apr-26
Aug-21
Jul-21
Jul-21
Jan-21
Feb-21
Feb-21
Mar-21
Mar-21
Apr-21

Fixed Rate 3.25%
Fixed Rate 5.00%
Fixed Rate 0.707%
Fixed Rate 0.38%
Fixed Rate 1.125%
LIBOR + 1.95%
LIBOR + 1.15%
LIBOR + 1%
LIBOR + 1.24%
Fixed Rate 2.14%
Fixed Rate 4%
Fixed Rate 2.06%
Fixed Rate 2.06%
Fixed Rate 0.60%
Fixed Rate 0.60%
Fixed Rate 0.65%
Fixed Rate 1.48%
Fixed Rate 0.745%
Fixed Rate 1.5%
Fixed Rate 8.75%
Fixed Rate 16.67%
Fixed Rate 9.65%
Fixed Rate 9.85%
Fixed Rate 9.70%
Fixed Rate 9.85%
Fixed Rate 15.75%
Fixed Rate 16.25%
Fixed Rate 16.75%
Fixed Rate 23.97%

158

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
18.  DEBT SECURITIES (continued)

Movement in debt securities are analysed as follows:

Balance at 1 January
Additions
Repayments
Amortization of discount and transaction cost
Accrued interest
Exchange difference
Balance at 31 December

The table below shows the maturity profile of debt securities:

Up to 1 year
Between 1 and 3 years
Over 3 years
Total

19.  OTHER BORROWINGS

Bilateral loans
Syndicated loans
Others
Accrued interest
Total

2020

2019

9,524,590
5,452,640
(2,157,982)
13,623
(1,731)
275,994
13,107,134

16,071,746
3,486,978
(9,932,780)
23,826
(43,138)
(82,042)
9,524,590

2020

2019

5,710,764
3,259,122
4,137,248
13,107,134

1,193,838
4,568,449
3,762,303
9,524,590

2020

2019

1,427,572
5,178,191
7,439,514
80,399
14,125,676

180,559
4,616,940
7,144,995
100,673
12,043,167

159

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
19.  OTHER BORROWINGS (continued)

Movements in other borrowings are as follows:

Balance at 1 January
Additions
Repayments
Amortization of discount and transaction cost
Accrued interest
Exchange difference
Balance at 31 December

The table below shows the maturity profile of other borrowings:

Up to 1 year
Between 1 and 3 years
Over 3 years
Total

2020

2019

12,043,167
8,922,233
(6,073,532)
15,886
(20,274)
(761,804)
14,125,676

8,379,734
7,793,321
(3,735,723)
12,077
22,767
(429,009)
12,043,167

2020

2019

10,370,990
3,108,991
645,695
14,125,676

7,102,050
4,134,116
807,001
12,043,167

160

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
20.  OTHER LIABILITIES

Accrued expense payable
Other provisions (Note i)
Negative fair value of derivatives (Note 36)
Unearned income
Cash margins
Accounts payable
Directors’ remuneration and meeting attendance fee
Provision for sports and social activities support fund (“Daam”) (Note 23)
Dividend payable
Managers’ cheque and payment order
Unclaimed balances
Due for trade acceptances
Deferred tax liabilities
Lease liabilities (Note ii)
Employees’ benefit liability (Note 31 and Note iii)
Income tax payable
Others
Net impairment losses on loan commitments and financial guarantees
Total

(i)  Other provisions

Balance at 1 January
Provision made during the year (note 31)
Earnings of the fund
Provident fund – staff contribution
Transferred to state retirement fund authority
Payment during the year
Exchange difference
Balance at 31 December

Provident 
fund (a)

Pension 
fund (b)

193,866
13,772
5,376
5,380
-
(19,729)
(742)
197,923

401
9,880
-
5,148
(15,205)
-
-
224

2020

2019

307,874
198,147
1,059,829
248,365
631,355
588,751
18,500
32,530
23,211
52,619
14,065
3,046,192
438
491,035
90,474
17,440
1,424,190
160,881
8,405,896

Total
 2020

194,267
23,652
5,376
10,528
(15,205)
(19,729)
(742)
198,147

148,459
194,270
526,643
231,416
663,044
650,715
18,500
50,526
23,373
46,841
12,609
1,480,885
649
133,333
117,462
25,596
965,052
95,753
5,385,126

Total 
2019

215,706
22,483
5,530
10,428
(16,247)
(43,127)
(503)
194,270

(a)  The provident fund includes the Group’s obligations for end of service benefits to expatriate staff per Qatar labour law 

and the employment contracts.

(b)  Pension fund contributions in respect of the national staff are paid to the State administered retirement fund at the 
end of each month. The Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The 
contributions are recognized when they are due.

161

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
20.  OTHER LIABILITIES (continued)

(ii)  Lease liabilities

The table below shows the maturity profile of lease liabilities: 

Up to 1 year
Above 1 year
Total

2020

2019

110,719
380,316
491,035

26,534
106,799
133,333

(iii)  Employees’ benefit liability

The Bank has granted performance rights to employees including senior management. Performance rights represent a 
contingent right to receive a cash payment by referencing to the value of Bank shares during a specified period of time. 
These performance rights do not provide any entitlement to receive Bank shares, voting rights or dividends associated 
with them. The fair value at the grant date was estimated using the Black Scholes model, considering the terms and 
conditions upon which the performance rights were granted. Performance rights will be settled in cash. The following 
tables list the inputs to the model used for plan for the year ended 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2019:

Expected volatility (%)
Dividend yield (%)
Risk - free int. rate (%)

Number of performance rights
Vesting period
Share price (QAR)
Average strike price (QAR)

2020

2019

Max

Min

Max

Min

30.05%
14.45%
2.07%

21.45%
4.75%
1.36%

30.88%
9.92%
3.05%

26.78%
3.28%
2.43%

157.5 million
3 years
4.4
3.58

180.7 million
3 years
4.7
3.56

162

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
21.  EQUITY

(a)  Share capital

The issued, subscribed and paid up share capital of the Bank is QAR 4,047,253,750 (2019: QAR 4,047,253,750) divided 
into 4,047,253,750 (2019: 4,047,253,750) ordinary shares of QAR 1 each (2019: QAR 1 each).

Authorized number of ordinary shares
Nominal value of ordinary shares (QAR)
Issued and paid up capital (in thousands of Qatar Riyals)

2020

2019

4,047,253,750 4,047,253,750
1
1
4,047,254
4,047,254

At 31 December 2020, the authorized share capital comprised 4,047,254 thousand ordinary share (2019: 4,047,254 
thousand).

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote 
per share at shareholders’ Annual/Extra-ordinary General meeting of the Bank.

(b)  Legal reserve

The legal reserve of Commercial Bank and Alternatifbank are QAR 9,764 million (2019: QAR 9,740 million) and QAR 101 
million (2019: QAR 96 million) respectively.

In accordance with Qatar Central Bank Law No 13 of 2012, 10% of the net profit of the Group for the year is required to be 
transferred to legal reserve. Share premium collected from the issuance of new shares and sale of treasury shares is also 
transferred to legal reserve. Transfer to legal reserve from net profit is mandatory until the legal reserve equals 100% of 
the paid up capital. This reserve is not available for distribution except in circumstances specified in Qatar Commercial 
Companies Law No 11 of 2015 and is subject to pre-approval from QCB.

In accordance with the Turkish Commercial code, an entity is required to transfer 5% of net profit until the legal reserve is 
equal to 20% of issued and fully paid up share capital. Rate for transfer to legal reserve goes up to 10% of net profit 
allocated for distribution excluding the first 5% of the allocated profit. Share premium and proceeds from cancelled 
shares, if any net of related expenses are also transferred to legal reserve.

(c)  General reserve

As per the Bank’s Articles of Association, the general reserve may only be used in accordance with a resolution from the 
General Assembly upon the Board of Directors recommendation and after obtaining Qatar Central Bank approval.

(d)  Risk reserve

In accordance with QCB regulations, a risk reserve should be maintained created to cover contingencies on both the 
public and private sector financing assets, with a minimum requirement of 2.50% of the total loans and advances of the 
Group inside and outside Qatar after the exclusion of the credit impairment losses and interest in suspense. The finance 
provided to/or secured by the Ministry of Finance or finance against cash guarantees is excluded from the gross direct 
finance. On 1st January 2018, after QCB approval QAR 1,529 millions was appropriated from risk reserve for transition 
adjustment on adoption of IFRS 9. During the year QAR 616 million (2019: QAR 535 million) was transferred to the risk 
reserve account as per QCB approval.

163

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
21.  EQUITY (continued)

(e)  Fair value reserve

The fair value reserve arises from the revaluation of the investment securities through FVOCI, cash flow hedges and 
change of post acquisition fair value reserve of its associates and a joint arrangement.

Fair value reserve

Balance as at 1 January

Impact of revaluation (IFRS 9):

- on equity securities (including Foreign currency translation difference)
- on debt securities

Net amount Transferred to Income statement
Net movement in effective portion of Cash Flow hedges
Net change in fair value of investment in associates
FVOCI instrument loss transferred to Retained earnings
Net movement during the year
Balance as at 31 December

2020

2019

600,094

(96,333)

(88,168)
443,081
(3,519)
59,634
(10,821)
-
400,207
1,000,301

(34,072)
663,769
(9,091)
9,053
22,051
44,717
696,427
600,094

(f)  Treasury shares

Treasury shares represents ordinary shares of The Commercial Bank (P.S.Q.C) with nominal value of QAR 1 each. All treasury 
shares were sold during the year 2020. Treasury shares are presented as a deduction from equity.

(g)  Foreign currency translation reserve

The translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements 
of foreign operations.

(h)  Other reserves

This includes the Group’s share of profit from investment in associates and a joint arrangement and non-distributable 
profit of subsidiaries, net of cash dividend received, as required by QCB regulations as follows:

Balance as at 1 January

Share of result of associates and a joint arrangement (note 12)
Dividend from associates and a joint arrangement (note 12)
Net movement
Balance as at 31 December

2020

2019

859,893

959,764

(210,006)
(92,614)
(302,620)
557,273

(6,799)
(93,072)
(99,871)
859,893

164

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
21.  EQUITY (continued)

(i)  Proposed dividend

The Board of Directors has proposed a cash dividend of 10% for the year 2020 (2019: 20% cash dividend). This proposal 
is subject to approval at the Annual General Assembly.

(j)  Dividends

A cash dividend of 20% for the year 2019 (2018: 15% cash dividend), was approved at the Annual General Assembly held 
on 23 March 2020 and distributed to shareholders.

(k)  Revaluation reserve

This represents the surplus on revaluation of land and buildings that are used in Group’s operations and is not available for 
distribution until the related assets have been disposed off or used.

(l) 

Instruments eligible for additional capital
In December 2013; the Bank raised regulatory tier 1 capital of QAR 2 billion by issuing unsecured perpetual non-cumulative 
unlisted Tier 1 notes. The coupon payments are discretionary and non-cumulative. On the first call date of 30 December 
2019, the interest rates on the notes have been agreed at 5.15% (previous rate 6%) and thereafter to be reset at a 
prevailing sixth year mid-swap rate plus margin every sixth year which will be at 30 December 2025.

In February 2016, the Bank raised additional regulatory tier 1 capital of QAR 2 billion by issuing unsecured perpetual non-
cumulative unlisted Tier 1 notes. The coupon payments are discretionary and non-cumulative and priced at a fixed rate of 
6% per annum, payable annually until the first call date and thereafter to be reset at a prevailing sixth year mid-swap rate 
plus margin every sixth year. As per amendments required by Qatar Central Bank the first call date was amended from 27 
February 2022 to 31 December 2021.

The Notes are ranked junior to the Bank’s existing unsubordinated obligations including existing subordinated debt and 
depositors, pari passu to all current and future subordinated obligations and senior to the ordinary shares issued by the 
Bank.

The  Notes  have  no  fixed  redemption  date  and  the  Bank  can  only  redeem  the  Notes  in  the  limited  circumstance  as 
mentioned in the term sheet i.e. regulatory / tax redemption and other general redemption conditions solely at the Bank’s 
discretion. The Bank might be required to write-off the proposed Capital issue, if a “loss absorption” event is triggered and 
the Bank has non-discretionary obligation to deliver cash or financial assets. These notes have been classified under 
equity.

165

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
22.  OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Changes in fair value of investments in debt securities designated at FVOCI (IFRS 9):
Positive change in fair value
Negative change in fair value
Net change in fair value
Net amount transferred to profit or loss*
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operation
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and a joint arrangement
Net changes in FV of Cash Flow hedges

Net changes in fair value of equity investments designated at FVOCI (IFRS 9):
Net changes in FV of equity investments – FVOCI
Foreign currency translation differences
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and a joint arrangement
Total other comprehensive income

2020

2019

445,568
(2,487)
443,081
(3,519)
(288,430)
1,214
59,634
211,980

43,104
(131,272)
(12,035)
111,777

666,739
(2,970)
663,769
(9,091)
(129,811)
28,059
9,053
561,979

(34,072)
-
(6,008)
521,899

*Net amount transferred to profit or loss includes a positive change in fair value of QAR 10.4 million (2019: QAR 9.7 million) 
and a negative change in fair value of QAR 6.9 million (2019: QAR 0.6 million).

23.  CONTRIBUTION TO PROVISION FOR SPORTS AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES SUPPORT FUND (“DAAM”)

Pursuant to Law No. 13 of 2008, the Bank made an appropriation of QAR 32.5 million (2019: QAR 50.5 million) from 
retained earnings for its contribution to the Social and Sports Activities Support Fund (“Daam”) of Qatar. This amount 
represents 2.5% of the net profit of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2020.

24.  INTEREST INCOME

Loans and advances to customers
Debt securities
Amounts deposited with banks
Amounts deposited with central banks

2020

2019

4,303,977
1,116,704
235,349
15,347
5,671,377

5,220,424
1,148,964
375,151
50,871
6,795,410

The amounts reported above include interest income, calculated using the effective interest method, that relate to, at 
amortized cost QAR 5,280 million (2019: QAR 6,459 million) and at fair value QAR 391 million (2019: QAR 336 million).

166

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
25.  INTEREST EXPENSE

Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Interest expense on lease liabilities
Amount deposited by central banks and other banks

2020

2019

1,568,113
333,942
412,444
8,475
248,268
2,571,242

2,348,258
644,014
393,231
11,149
435,575
3,832,227

The  amounts  reported  above  include  interest  expense,  calculated  using  the  effective  interest  method,  on  financial 
liabilities at amortized cost.

26.  FEE AND COMMISSION INCOME

Loans and advances
Credit and debit card fees
Indirect credit facilities
Banking and other operations
Investment activities for customers

27.  FEE AND COMMISSION EXPENSE

Credit and debit card fees
Brokerage services
Others

28.  NET FOREIGN EXCHANGE GAIN

2020

2019

343,103
397,322
138,052
166,550
65,068
1,110,095

366,114
458,963
168,011
251,633
44,499
1,289,220

2020

2019

209,186
14,619
75,441
299,246

288,162
11,391
74,821
374,374

2020

2019

Dealing in foreign currencies & revaluation of spot assets

296,351

281,045

167

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
29.  NET (LOSS) / INCOME FROM INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Net gain on disposal of investment securities measured at fair value
Net Change in Fair-value of Investment securities
Dividend income

30.  OTHER INCOME

Rental and other income

31.  STAFF COSTS

Salary and benefits (Note)
Health care and medical insurance expenses
Staff end of services and pension fund contribution (Note 20 (i))
Training and education

2020

2019

26,560
(53,671)
3,664
(23,447)

25,237
39,405
4,351
68,993

2020

2019

53,245

118,578

2020

2019

589,897
17,498
23,652
1,552
632,599

754,687
17,028
22,483
2,154
796,352

Note: Salary and benefits include a credit of QR 6.8 million (2019: a surplus of QAR 117.5 million) with respect to performance 
rights due to decline in the market value.

32.  OTHER EXPENSES

Marketing and advertisement
Professional fees
Communication, utilities and insurance
Board of Directors’ remuneration
Occupancy, IT consumables and maintenance
Travel and related costs
Printing and stationery
Outsourcing service costs
Others

168

2020

2019

34,750
19,638
50,044
18,500
49,490
446
4,847
31,199
56,124
265,038

26,842
16,325
46,914
18,500
41,486
1,684
4,376
38,158
32,359
226,644

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
33.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings per share of the Bank is calculated by dividing profit for the year attributable to the equity holders of the Bank by 
the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year:

Basic and diluted
Profit for the year attributable to the equity holders of the Bank
Less: Dividend on Instrument eligible for additional capital
Profit for EPS calculation

2020

2019

1,301,213
(223,000)
1,078,213

2,021,040
(240,000)
1,781,040

Weighted average number of outstanding shares in thousands (Note 21 (a))
Basic and diluted earnings per share (QAR)

4,047,254
0.27

4,047,254
0.44

34.  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

a)  Contingent liabilities
Unutilized credit facilities
Guarantees
Letters of credit
Total

b)  Capital commitments

Total

2020

2019

4,465,134
17,788,756
2,291,488
24,545,378

4,287,871
21,353,539
1,706,950
27,348,360

127,548

421,352

Unused facilities
Commitments  to  extend  credit  represent  contractual  commitments  to  make  loans  and  revolving  credits.  The  total 
contractual amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, since commitments may expire without 
being drawn upon.

Guarantees and letters of credit
Guarantees and letters of credit make the group liable to make payments on behalf of customers in the event of a specific 
event. Guarantees and standby letters of credit carry the same credit risk as loans.

35.  CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and balances with central banks *
Due from banks up to 90 days

*Cash and balances with central banks exclude the mandatory cash reserve.

2020

2019

4,376,695
6,145,270
10,521,965

2,453,619
7,602,352
10,055,971

169

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
36.  DERIVATIVES

Positive  
fair value

Negative 
fair value

Notional 
amount

within  
3 months

3 - 12 
months

1-5 years

More than 
5 years

At 31 December 2020:
Derivatives held for 
trading:
Interest rate swaps
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts & others
Derivatives held for fair 
value hedges:
Interest rate swaps
Derivatives held for cash 
flow hedges:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts & others
Interest rate swaps
Total

At 31 December 2019:
Derivatives held for trading:
Interest rate swaps
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts & others
Derivatives held for fair 
value hedges:
Interest rate swaps
Derivatives held for cash 
flow hedges:
Forward foreign exchange 
contracts & others
Interest rate swaps
Total

952,605

873,971

12,946,978

322,990

463,585

4,484,822

7,675,581

487,706

164,685

50,522,392 18,928,096

5,719,082

17,966,645

7,908,569

177,350

19,031

8,763,546

2,686,102

949,070

3,235,574

1,892,800

-

-

2,960,421

-

-

2,960,421

-

3,840

-
1,621,501 1,059,829 78,050,792 21,937,188 7,581,034 31,055,620 17,476,950

2,408,158

2,857,455

449,297

2,142

-

439,654

333,780 12,540,390

30,599

1,936,671 4,004,935

6,568,185

237,389

113,847

47,722,621

14,873,925 3,979,028 19,924,049

8,945,619

86,578

8,086

3,713,772

-

62,289

4,426,448

-

-

-

1,092,122

2,621,650

- 4,426,448

-

699
764,320

8,641

159,079
526,643 68,929,415 14,904,524 6,282,804 29,606,633

526,184

367,105

-

-
18,135,454

The bank maintains strict control limits on net open derivative positions, i.e. the difference between purchase and sale 
contracts, by both amount and term. At any one time the amount subject to credit risk is limited to the current fair value of 
instruments that are favourable to the bank (i.e. assets) which in relation to derivatives is only a small fraction of the contract 
or notional values used to express the volume of instruments outstanding. This credit risk exposure is managed as part of 
the overall lending limits with customers, together with potential exposures from market movements. Collateral or other 
security is not usually obtained for credit risk exposures on these instruments, except where the bank requires margin 
deposits from counter-parties.

170

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
36.  DERIVATIVES (continued)

At 31 December 2020, the Group held the following derivatives as hedging instruments:

Cash Flow Hedges:

Hedged item

Description

Currency

Notional in 
currency

Average 
Rate

Hedging instrument

Interest Rate Swaps

Cross Currency Swaps

Customer Deposits
Bond Issuance
Bond Issuance

Fixed for floating
Fixed for floating
CHF to USD

CNH to USD

HKD to USD

JPY to USD

Loans

JPY to USD

TRY
USD
USD
CHF
USD
CNH
USD
HKD
USD
JPY
USD
JPY

5,787,446
95,900,000
813,302,542
770,000,000
24,402,774
171,000,000
85,157,619
660,000,000
33,957,809
3,500,000,000
259,398,522
27,700,000,000

19.7%
2.6%
3.8%
1.2%
2.1%
4.0%
2.0%
2.1%
1.5%
0.6%
1.6%
-0.2%

Hedging instrument

Fair value Hedges:

Hedged item

Description

Currency

Notional in 
currency

Average 
Rate

Interest Rate Swaps

Govt Bonds

Fixed for floating

USD

260,000,000

2.79%

37.  FUND MANAGEMENT

As at the end of the reporting date, the Group holds QAR 913 million (2019: QAR 392 million) worth of international 
investment securities on behalf of its customers. Out of this amount, investment securities with a value of QAR 552 million 
(2019: QAR 338 million) are held with an international custody and settlement house. The remaining investment securities 
are held with the financial institutions through whom the securities were purchased. These financial institutions are industry 
leaders in their respective fields. The Group has established maximum limits for such holding with each financial institution 
according to its risk management policy.

171

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
38.  RELATED PARTIES

Board members of the bank
-  Loans, advances and financing activities (a)
-  Deposits
-  Contingent liabilities and other commitments
-  Interest and fee income
-  Interest paid on deposits accounts of board members
-  Remuneration

Associates and joint arrangement companies
Due from banks
Due to banks
Deposits
Contingent liabilities
Interest paid to associates

Senior management of the bank
-  Remuneration and other benefits*
-  Loans and advances

2020

2019

1,435,891
1,150,952
73,214
52,200
19,959
18,500

145,814
155,476
8,274
1,472,211
1,402

1,176,839
798,857
3,722
25,835
8,532
18,500

309,400
10,610
9,951
745,942
4,725

47,864
5,634

110,941
5,156

*  Remuneration  and  other  benefits  include  cost  for  performance  rights  amounting  to  QAR  1.62  million  (2019:  
QAR 71.7 million). The performance rights represent the movement of the share price related to the underlying share 
options.

(a)  A significant portion of the loans, advances and financing activities’ balance at 31 December 2020 and 31 December 
2019 with the members of the Board and the companies in which they have significant influence are secured against 
tangible collateral or personal guarantees. Moreover, the loans, advances and financing activities are performing 
satisfactorily honouring all obligations.

39.  IMPACT OF COVID-19

Estimates and judgements
The spread of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic has severely impacted various economies globally, causing disruption 
to business and economic activities. This has resulted in a global economic slowdown with uncertainties in the economic 
environment. Global stock markets have also experienced great volatility and a significant weakening. Governments and 
central banks have responded with monetary and fiscal interventions to stabilize economic conditions.

The Group is actively monitoring the COVID 19 situation and in response to this outbreak CBQ, has activated its business 
continuity plan and various other risk management practices to manage the potential business disruption on its operations 
and financial performance.

172

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
39.  IMPACT OF COVID-19 (continued)

In addition, the Group’s operations are mainly based in economies that are relatively dependent on the price of crude oil 
and natural gas. During the current year oil prices have witnessed unprecedented volatility and has decreased significantly.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, significant judgements made by management in applying the Group’s 
accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty were impacted by the potential impacts of the current 
economic volatility in determination of the reported amounts of the Group’s financial and non-financial assets and these 
are considered to represent management’s best assessment based on available or observable information. Markets 
however remain volatile and the recorded amounts remain sensitive to market fluctuations.

The significant accounting estimates impacted by these forecasts and associated uncertainties are predominantly related 
to expected credit losses, fair value measurement, and the assessment of the recoverable amount of non-financial assets. 
The  Group  has  considered  the  potential  impacts  of  the  current  economic  volatility  in  determination  of  the  reported 
amounts of the financial and non-financial assets and these are considered to represent management’s best assessment 
based on observable information. Markets however remain volatile and the recorded amounts remain sensitive to market 
fluctuations.

Credit risk
IASB’s guidance note issued on 27 March 2020, advises that both the assessment of Significant Increase in Credit risk 
(SICR) and the measurement of ECLs are required to be based on reasonable and supportable information that is available 
without  undue  cost  or  effort.  In  assessing  forecast  conditions,  consideration  should  be  given  both  to  the  effects  of 
COVID-19 and the significant government support measures being undertaken. When it is not possible to reflect such 
information in the models, the Board expects post-model overlays or adjustments to be considered. 

For the year end 31 December 2020, the Group has updated inputs and assumptions used for the determination of 
expected credit losses (“ECLs”) in response to uncertainties caused by COVID 19 and unprecedented volatility in oil prices. 
ECLs were estimated based on a range of forecast economic conditions as at that date. Considering that the situation is 
fast evolving, the Group has considered the impact of higher volatility in the forward-looking macro-economic factors, 
when determining the severity and likelihood of economic scenarios for ECL determination and will continue to do so for 
the upcoming quarters.

This is broadly consistent with guidelines issued by QCB which mandates that loan instalment deferment may not in its own 
trigger SICR as this might indicate short term liquidity problems.

The ECL models have been updated through adjustments in the methods of scenario construction and the underlying 
weightages assigned to these scenarios. The forward-looking factor (here Credit Index or CI) used is determined from the 
observed historical credit index. The credit index is used to forecast expected point-in-time probabilities of default for the 
credit portfolio of the Bank. These are disclosed in Note 4(b) Credit Risk.

The Group has given specific consideration to the relevant impact of COVID-19 on the qualitative and quantitative factors 
when determining the significant increase in credit risk and assessing the indicators of impairment for the exposures in 
potentially affected sectors. To this extent the Bank has elevated the near term PDs resulting in higher recognition of 
relevant ECLs and impairment allowances as disclosed in to the consolidated financial statements.

173

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
39.  IMPACT OF COVID-19 (continued)

The Group has deferred repayments of certain customers for a temporary period. In accordance with IASB guidance, this 
forbearance does not automatically trigger a significant increase in credit risk and a stage migration for the purpose of 
calculating  expected  credit  losses,  as  these  are  measures  are  being  made  available  to  assist  borrowers  affected  by 
COVID-19 outbreak to resume regular payments. Similarly, any covenant breach having particular relevance to COVID-19 
e.g. delay in submission of audited financial accounts etc. may not necessarily trigger SICR.

The exercise of the deferment option by a customer, in its own, is not considered by the Bank as triggering SICR and as a 
consequence impact on ECL for those customers were determined based on their existing staging. However, as part of 
the Bank’s credit evaluation process especially given the current economic situation, the Bank obtained further information 
from the customer to understand their financial position and ability to repay the amount and in case where indicators of 
significant  deterioration  were  noted,  the  customers’  credit  ratings  and  accordingly  exposure  staging  were  adjusted, 
where applicable.

In addition to the assumptions outlined above, the Group continues to closely monitor the potential repayment risk impact 
of COVID-19 on affected industry sectors and borrower’s performance against the likelihood of repayments.

174

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continuedAs at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 QAR ‘000s 
 
 
Financial Statement of the Parent

As at 31 December 2020 

QAR ‘000s

(a) Statement of Financial Position – Parent

ASSETS
Cash and balances with central banks
Due from banks
Loans and advances to customers
Investment securities
Investment in associates and a joint arrangement and subsidiaries
Property and equipment
Other assets
TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES
Due to banks
Customer deposits
Debt securities
Other borrowings
Other liabilities
TOTAL LIABILITIES

EQUITY
Share capital
Legal reserve
General reserve
Risk reserve
Fair value reserve
Treasury shares
Foreign currency translation reserve
Other reserves
Revaluation reserve
Retained earnings
TOTAL EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO EQUITY HOLDERS OF THE BANK
Instruments eligible for additional capital
TOTAL EQUITY
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

2020

2019

6,503,599
10,406,613
84,938,536
23,174,627
4,343,780
2,616,006
5,199,800
137,182,961

20,402,012
67,037,368
11,814,989
9,177,529
6,984,993
115,416,891

4,047,254
9,763,429
26,500
2,102,994
1,131,212
-
(2,493,892)
507,273
1,264,794
1,416,506
17,766,070
4,000,000
21,766,070
137,182,961

4,431,379
11,767,481
76,475,207
24,407,811
5,445,227
2,639,085
6,403,778
131,569,968

23,348,968
66,854,395
7,791,254
7,256,184
4,779,148
110,029,949

4,047,254
9,739,507
26,500
1,486,994
619,393
(38,860)
(1,982,124)
809,892
1,264,794
1,566,669
17,540,019
4,000,000
21,540,019
131,569,968

175

Financial Statement of the Parent continued

For the year ended 31 December 2020 

QAR ‘000s

(b) Income Statement – Parent

Interest income
Interest expense
Net interest income

Fee and commission income
Fee and commission expense
Net fee and commission income

Net foreign exchange gain
Net (loss)/income from investment securities
Other operating income
Net operating income

Staff costs
Depreciation
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets
Net impairment (losses)/reversal on investment securities
Net impairment losses on loans and advances to customers
Net impairment losses on other financial assets
Impairment on Investment in an Associate
Other provisions
Other expenses
Profit for the year

2020

2019

4,553,007
(1,750,374)
2,802,633

923,606
(245,783)
677,823

301,034
(32,453)
54,546
3,803,583

(419,900)
(109,509)
(48,268)
(31,899)
(718,590)
(107,461)
(591,242)
(40,177)
(298,331)
1,438,206

5,047,785
(2,473,614)
2,574,171

1,118,382
(333,812)
784,570

189,832
69,955
128,052
3,746,580

(592,298)
(118,921)
(46,268)
6,856
(377,030)
(68,704)
(413,881)
-
(221,817)
1,914,517

Accounting Policies for Financial Information of the Parent
Bank Statement of financial position and income statement of the parent bank are prepared using the same accounting policies 
followed  for  the  consolidated  financial  statements  except  for  investment  in  subsidiaries  and  associates,  which  are  not 
consolidated and carried at cost.

176

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