ING ratings are based on its strong and resilient retail and commercial banking franchise in the Benelux region. As well, ING continues to be at the forefront of direct retail banking operations in several important markets, including Germany.

ING successfully transitioned to a streamlined and simplified bank business model, while strengthening its financial profile and preserving the value of its core franchise. Moreover, the Bank weathered the restructuring season relatively well and has been consistently profitable. In 2016, ING Bank reported a net profit of EUR 4.2bn.

Both the bank’s funding profile and capital position have strengthened, and credit costs have declined, while the bank continues to increase outreach and expand lending. With management now focused on executing the second phase of their strategic plan, Scope remains cautious in regards to potential risks of the group’s growth strategies in its non-core geographies.

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