Allied Banking Corporation (now known as Allied Bank) established its finance arm in Manila to cater to the growing demand for financial services in the Philippines. Later, this entity became part of the larger Asia United Bank (AUB) following a merger.
AUB Finance in Manila functions as a critical component of AUB’s operations, offering a range of financial products and services to businesses and individuals. These services typically include:
- Corporate and Commercial Lending: Providing loans to businesses for various purposes, such as expansion, working capital, and project financing. This is a key area as it supports the growth of the Philippine economy.
- SME Financing: Focusing on the financial needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to the country’s job creation and economic activity. These loans often have different risk profiles and requirements than larger corporate loans.
- Trade Finance: Facilitating international trade transactions through letters of credit, export financing, and import financing. Manila’s position as a major trading hub in the Philippines makes this a significant service.
- Treasury Services: Managing liquidity, foreign exchange, and other treasury functions for corporate clients. These services help companies mitigate financial risks and optimize their cash flow.
- Investment Products: Offering investment options to clients, including bonds, securities, and other financial instruments, allowing them to grow their wealth.
AUB Finance in Manila distinguishes itself through its focus on personalized service and building strong relationships with its clients. It leverages AUB’s technological infrastructure to offer innovative financial solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of its customers. Furthermore, AUB often emphasizes serving underserved markets, contributing to financial inclusion in the Philippines.
The Manila office plays a pivotal role in implementing AUB’s overall strategy and contributes significantly to the bank’s performance. Its performance is directly impacted by the broader economic conditions in the Philippines, including interest rate movements, inflation, and overall business sentiment. AUB Finance must navigate these challenges while maintaining a strong risk management framework.
In the competitive landscape of the Philippine financial sector, AUB Finance aims to maintain its market share by focusing on specific niches and offering differentiated services. This may involve focusing on certain industries or targeting specific customer segments. Staying abreast of evolving regulatory requirements is also crucial to ensure compliance and maintain a positive reputation within the industry.