PACRA Maintains Entity Ratings of JS Global Capital Limited

The ratings reflect JS Global Capital Limited’s (JSGCL) leading position in the brokerage industry emanating from an established brand, sizeable and growing market share, and a sound operating platform. The ratings incorporate JSGCL's robust financial profile characterized by its un-leveraged capital structure and strong risk absorption capacity owing to its healthy equity base and liquidity profile. The company is geared up to further enhance its market share, branch network, software development while developing new products. The company's investment portfolio is compliant to its Investment Policy Statement, to invest in 'A' and above rated avenues and is dominated by bank placements and equity spread transactions which provide a stable stream of income. The investment book also remains a source of comfort amidst inherently volatile brokerage volumes. The performance of the company has been under pressure recently due to lower volumes and trading activity in the market resulting in subdued profitability. The ratings recognize JSGCL's parentage - JS Bank – and its association with JS Group.
The ratings are dependent on the JSGCL’s management’s ability to improve the fee-based income by optimizing its resources and effectively leveraging its outreach leading to better margins. Herein, augmenting its market share would further enhance JSGCL's business profile. Retention and nurturing of key human resources remain imperative for JSGCL. Any further decline in the operating margins/profitability of the company may have implications on the ratings.

About the Entity
JSGCL, with commercial operations starting in May 2003, carries the legacy of stock brokerage business initiated in the early seventies by Mr. Jahangir Siddiqui. With its head office based in Karachi, the company operates with eleven branches across the country. Its main activities include brokerage, corporate finance, financial advisory, forex, and money market activities. The company is listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). JS Bank Limited (JSBL) and Global Investment House (GHI) are the major shareholders of the company each holding 67% and 27% stake in JSGCL, respectively. Along with brokerage services, JSGCL provides financial advisory services as well.

The board of directors (BoD) of JSGCL comprises eight experienced professionals, including the CEO. Four members represent the JS Group. GIH has also nominated three well-qualified and resourceful members. The remaining member is an independent director. Lately, Mr. Muhammad Yousuf Amanullah replaced Mr. Raja Abdullah Khan as the company Chairman.