Credit ratings

In accordance with the group’s support statement, available in the Annual Report, the Standard Bank Group will ensure that, except in the case of political risk, the Standard Bank of South Africa is able to meet its contractual liabilities.

For the period ending 30 June 2015, Standard Bank Group remains appropriately capitalised with tier I and total capital levels at 13.7% (FY14: 12.9%) and 16.1% (FY14: 15.5%) respectively. The group is in a good position to meet the progressively higher requirements as prescribed by regulatory authorities across markets in which we are present.

The group maintained its strong liquidity positions within approved risk appetite and tolerance limits. Total liquidity in excess of specific prudential requirements amounted to R294,9 billion as at 1H15 (1H14: R268,1 billion), and remains adequate to meet all internal stress testing, prudential and regulatory requirements. The Basel III liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) was implemented on 1 January 2015 and at 30 June 2015 the group had exceeded the 60% minimum phased-in Basel III LCR requirement.

As part of our strategy, Standard Bank focuses on delivering superior sustainable shareholder value. We service the needs of our customers through first‑class, on-the-ground operations in chosen countries in Africa.

The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC), the world’s biggest bank, is our biggest shareholder with a 20.1% stake in Standard Bank. ICBC provides a powerful strategic relationship and access to the world's fastest growing economy. This relationship was strengthened in February 2015, with ICBC purchasing a 60% controlling interest in Standard Bank Plc.

At 31 December 2014, our international shareholders (including the ICBC) accounted for 48.6% of the issued shares for Standard Bank Group Limited.