OREANDA-NEWS. July 16, 2008. Financial magazine Euromoney has recognized Alfa-Bank as the Best Bank in Russia in 2008. This is the second year in a row that the Bank has been honored with this award, reported the press-centre of Alfa-Bank.

Martin Born, Euromoney’s director for Russia and the CIS, presented the award to Petr Aven, President of Alfa-Bank.

“I am happy to announce that Alfa-Bank has been recognized as the Best Bank in Russia for the second year in a row,” said Mr. Born. “Alfa is one of Russia’s largest financial institutions in terms of total assets and equity. It offers all major banking products, including professional services for corporate and retail customers, investment banking, trade finance and asset management.”

The Euromoney jury, composed of recognized experts, analysts, leading journalists and members of the magazine’s editorial board, carried out an in-depth survey of Russia’s leading banks. The criteria for selecting the winners included the bank’s position in the market, market share, innovative banking products, management system, professionalism of the staff, innovative character, balance sheet and shareholder equity.

The jury was particularly impressed by Alfa-Bank’s success in developing its retail business as well as its strong presence in the consumer lending market, growing sales, rapid development in the regions and charitable projects.

“We are grateful to Euromoney for recognizing our efforts,” noted Leonid Ignat, Alfa-Bank’s Director for Information Policy and Public Relations. “This award is proof that the quality of our services meets the highest international standards. We will make every effort to continue developing cutting-edge technology to better serve our customers in the future.”