OREANDA-NEWS. August 31, 2007. According to the Latvian Association of Commercial Banks, Parex banka is now the leading bank in terms of deposits from both retail and corporate clients in Latvia, as at July 31, 2007. In total the Bank has raised EUR 2,45 bln, giving a market share of 19,1% in Latvia, reported the press-centre of Parex banka.

In the first seven months of the year Parex banka saw a 21% increase in deposits, a record growth rate amongst the 5 largest banks in Latvia. The growth of retail client deposits reached 29,4%, the steepest increase amongst the five largest banks in Latvia, in the seven months to July 2007. In terms of corporate deposits Parex banka is almost 50% ahead of its nearest competitors with EUR 1,579 bln of attracted funds and has a market share of 21%.

”The increase in deposits is primarily a result of a growing interest from customers in our savings products over the last six months. This is very positive as Latvian citizens carefully consider different savings options and research the available rates, which are significantly higher in Parex banka than in other major Latvian banks. Additionally, the Bank has launched several conceptually new savings products such as the Parex Maxi Account, which is becoming increasingly popular. The account combines the advantages of a savings account, with a high annual interest rate of 6%, as well as providing 24/7 access to funds with a payment card. The Bank also offers a wide range of savings products, from simple deposit accounts to specially tailored asset management services. We are pleased that our clients appreciate the variety of products on offer, as an increase in savings is one of the key factors in reducing the inflationary growth in the country“, - notes Guntis Belavskis, Vice president, Customer Services, Parex banka.

Since the beginning of the year, Parex banka's assets have increased by 24,2%, (the most robust growth among the top three largest Latvian banks). With assets of EUR 4,2 b l n Parex banka is now the third largest bank in Latvia, in terms of assets, with a market share of 15,3%.