The strength of Standard Chartered's balance sheet, risk management approach and market position across the growing economies of Africa, Asia and the Middle East were cited by Standard & Poor's "S&P" in its upgrade of Standard Chartered Bank from A+ to AA- on 1 December 2011.

The S&P upgrade clearly demonstrates the Bank's differentiated position versus other international banks. It reinforces the Group's growing balance sheet, minimal wholesale funding requirements, diversified income streams and the strength of its capital and liquidity positions. Standard Chartered Bank is in a very small group of international banks to have been upgraded from S&P under the new methodology - with most institutions being downgraded or remaining the same.

Source: Financial Express/ Bangladesh/ 6th Dec 2011