UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 20-F
 
¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009
OR
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report ______________
For the transition period from      to
Commission file number 1-14014
 
CREDICORP LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its
charter)
BERMUDA
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Of our subsidiary
Banco de Crédito del Perú:
Calle Centenario 156
La Molina
Lima 12, Perú
(Address of principal executive offices)

Alvaro Correa
Chief Financial Officer
Credicorp Ltd
Banco de Crédito del Perú:
Calle Centenario 156
La Molina
Lima 12, Perú
Phone (+511) 313 2140
Facsimile (+511) 313 2121
(Name, Telephone, Email and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
 

 
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Shares, par value $5.00 per share
New York Stock Exchange
 
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.                                      None
 
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.                   None
 
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.     Common Shares, par value $5.00 per share                    94,382,317
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. 
Yes           x                  No       ¨
 
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes           ¨                  No       x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes           x                  No       ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes           x                  No       ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. 
 
Large accelerated filer  x
Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer  o
 
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP ¨
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
Other ¨
 
by the International Accounting Standards Board   x
 
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17  ¨                       Item 18  x
 
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes           ¨                  No       x
 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION
1
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT WITH RESPECT TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
2
   
PART I
   
     
ITEM 1.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
3
ITEM 2.
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
3
ITEM 3.
KEY INFORMATION
3
ITEM 4.
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
12
ITEM 4A.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
87
ITEM 5.
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
87
ITEM 6.
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
112
ITEM 7.
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
117
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
121
ITEM 9.
THE OFFER AND LISTING
123
ITEM 10.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
127
ITEM 11.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
128
ITEM 12.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
138
ITEM 13.
DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
139
ITEM 14.
MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
139
ITEM 15.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
139
ITEM 15T.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
143
ITEM 16A.
AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
143
ITEM 16B.
CODE OF ETHICS
143
ITEM 16C.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
143
ITEM 16D.
EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
144
ITEM 16E.
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
145
ITEM 16F.
CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
145
ITEM 16G.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
145
ITEM 17.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
149
ITEM 18.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
149
ITEM 19.
EXHIBITS
150

 
i

 

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires, references in this Form 20-F (also referred to as the Annual Report), to “$,” “US$,” “Dollars,” “foreign currency” or “U.S. Dollars” are to United States Dollars, and references to “S/.”, “Nuevo Sol” or “Nuevos Soles” are to Peruvian Nuevos Soles. Each Nuevo Sol is divided into 100 céntimos (cents).
 
Credicorp Ltd. is a Bermuda limited liability company (and is referred to in this Annual Report as Credicorp, we, or us, and means either Credicorp as a separate entity or as an entity together with our consolidated subsidiaries, as the context may require). We maintain our financial books and records in U.S. Dollars and present our financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). IFRS differ in certain respects from United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP).
 
We operate primarily through our four operating segments: banking (including commercial and investment banking), insurance, pension funds, and brokerage and other. See information about operating segments in “Item 4.-Information on the Company: (A) History and Development of the Company, and (B) Business Overview”.
 
Our four principal subsidiaries are Banco de Crédito del Perú (which, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is referred to as BCP), Atlantic Security Holding Corporation (which, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is referred to as ASHC), El Pacífico-Peruano Suiza Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros (which, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is referred to as Pacífico Peruano Suiza or PPS) and Grupo Crédito S.A. (which, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including the main subsidiary Prima AFP, is referred to as Grupo Crédito). BCP’s activities include commercial banking, investment banking and retail banking. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2009, BCP accounted for 72.8% of our total revenues, 87.2% of our total assets, 84.6% of our net income and 70.6% of our net equity. Unless otherwise specified, the individual financial information for BCP, ASHC, PPS and Grupo Crédito included in this Annual Report has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of each such entity. See “Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—(A) History and Development of the Company.”
 
“Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data” contains key information related to our performance. This information was obtained mainly from our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
 
Our management’s criteria on foreign currency translation, for the purpose of preparing the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements, is described in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—(A) Operating Results—(1) Critical Accounting Policies—Foreign Currency Translation.”
 
Some of our subsidiaries maintain their operations and balances in Nuevos Soles. As a result, this Annual Report contains certain Nuevo Sol amounts translated into U.S. Dollars which is solely for the convenience of the reader. You should not construe any of these translations as representations that the Nuevo Sol amounts actually represent such equivalent U.S. Dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. Dollars at the rate indicated as of the dates mentioned herein, or at all. Unless otherwise indicated, these U.S. Dollar amounts have been translated from Nuevos Soles at an exchange rate of S/.2.89 = US$1.00, which is the December 31, 2009 exchange rate set by the Peruvian Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP (the Superintendency of Banks, Insurance and Pension Funds, or the SBS). The average of the bid and offered free market exchange rates published by the SBS for June 14, 2010 was S/.2.843 per US$1.00. Translating amounts expressed in Nuevos Soles on a specified date (at the prevailing exchange rate on that date) may result in the presentation of U.S. Dollar amounts that are different from the U.S. Dollar amounts that would have been obtained by translating Nuevos Soles on another specified date (at the prevailing exchange rate on that different specified date). See also “Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data—Exchange Rates” for information regarding the average rates of exchange between the Nuevo Sol and the U.S. Dollar for the periods specified therein. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York does not publish a noon buying rate for Nuevos Soles.

 
 

 
 
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT WITH RESPECT TO
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made in the sections entitled “Item 3. Key Information,” “Item 4. Information on the Company,” “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk,” which are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (or the Exchange Act). These forward-looking statements are based on our management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, actual results, performance or events may be materially different from those in the forward-looking statements due to, without limitation:
 
 
·
general economic conditions, including in particular economic conditions in Peru;
 
 
·
performance of financial markets, including emerging markets;
 
 
·
the frequency and severity of insured loss events;
 
 
·
interest rate levels;
 
 
·
currency exchange rates, including the Nuevo Sol/U.S. Dollar exchange rate;
 
 
·
increasing levels of competition in Peru and other emerging markets;
 
 
·
changes in laws and regulations;
 
 
·
changes in the policies of central banks and/or foreign governments; and
 
 
·
general competitive factors, in each case on a global, regional and/or national basis.
 
See “Item 3. Key Information—(D) Risk Factors,” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”
 
We are not under any obligation to, and we expressly disclaim any such obligation to, update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 
2

 

PART I
 
ITEM 1.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 2.
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 3.
KEY INFORMATION
 
(A)
Selected Financial Data
 
The following table presents a summary of our consolidated financial information at the dates and for the periods indicated. This selected financial data is presented in U.S. Dollars. You should read this information in conjunction with, and qualify this information in its entirety by reference to, the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements, which are also presented in U.S. Dollars.
 
The summary of our consolidated financial data as of, and for the years ended, December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 is derived from the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements audited by Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes & Asociados S.C.R.L, member of Ernst & Young Global, independent registered public accountants.
 
The report of Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes & Asociados S.C.R.L on the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2008 and 2009 and for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 appears elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 
3

 

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages, ratios,
and per common share data)
 
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
                             
IFRS:
                             
Interest income
   US$ 612,432     US$ 782,002     US$ 1,065,339     US$ 1,382,844     US$ 1,312,925  
Interest expense
  (173,159 )   (283,478 )   (431,365 )   (561,617 )   (420,564 )
Net Interest income
  439,273     498,524     633,974     821,227     892,361  
Provision for loan losses  (1)
  6,356     4,243     (28,439 )   (48,760 )   (163,392 )
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
  445,629     502,767     605,535     772,467     728,969  
Fees and commissions from banking services
  206,163     243,778     324,761     394,247     436,819  
Net gains (loss) from sales of securities
  8,965     27,281     46,376     51,936     120,932  
Net gains on foreign exchange
transactions
  29,286     41,638     61,778     108,709     87,944  
Net premiums earned
  218,955     251,261     297,272     393,903     424,682  
Other income
  21,571     26,197     90,022     37,672     74,936  
Claims on insurance activities
  (175,500 )   (186,522 )   (238,600 )   (341,910 )   (286,458 )
Operating expenses
  (477,073 )   (585,058 )   (747,089 )   (920,603 )   (957,110 )
Merger costs
  0     (5,706 )   0     0     0  
Income before translation result and income tax
  277,996     315,636     440,055     496,421     630,714  
Translation result
  (9,597 )   15,216     34,627     (17,650 )   12,222  
Income tax
  (73,546 )   (83,587 )   (102,287 )   (109,508 )   (138,500 )
Net income
  194,853     247,265     372,395     369,263     504,436  
Attributable to:
                             
Net income attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders
  181,885     230,013     350,735     357,756     469,785  
Minority interest
  12,968     17,252     21,660     11,507     34,651  
Number of shares as adjusted to reflect changes in capital
  79,761,475     79,761,475     79,761,475     79,761,475     79,591,225  
Net income per common share attributable to Credicorp´s equity holders (2)
  2.28     2.88     4.40     4.49     5.90  
Diluted net income per share
  2.28     2.88     4.40     4.49     5.90  
Cash dividends declared per common share
  1.10     1.30     1.50     1.50     1.70  
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
                             
IFRS:
                             
Total assets
  11,036,075     12,881,529     17,705,898     20,821,069     22,028,107  
Total loans (3)
  4,972,975     5,877,361     8,183,845     10,456,284     11,505,319  
Reserves for loan losses (1)
  (218,636 )   (210,586 )   (229,700 )   (248,063 )   (376,049 )
Total deposits
  7,067,754     8,799,134     11,299,671     13,877,028     14,038,710  
Equity attributable to  Credicorp’s equity holders
  1,190,440     1,396,822     1,676,009     1,689,172     2,316,856  
Minority interest
  101,515     136,946     139,264     106,933     186,496  
Net Equity
  1,291,955     1,533,768     1,815,273     1,796,105     2,503,352  

 
4

 
 
   
Year ended December 31,
   
2005
 
2006
 
2007
 
2008
 
2009
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages, ratios,
and per common share data)
SELECTED RATIOS
                   
IFRS:
                   
Net interest margin (4)
 
4.90%
  4.64%   4.50%   4.46%   4.70%
Return on average total assets (5)
  1.81%   1.92%   2.29%   1.86%   2.19%
Return on average equity attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders (6)
  16.39%   18.44%   22.67%   20.21%   23.72%
Operating expenses as a percentage of net interest and non-interest income (7)
  46.25%   50.26%   50.62%   40.27%   46.18%
Operating expenses as a percentage of average assets
  4.74%   4.89%   4.88%   4.78%   4.47%
Equity attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders as a percentage of period end total assets
  10.79%   10.84%   9.47%   8.11%   10.52%
Regulatory capital as a percentage of risk weighted assets (8)
  13.10%   11.98%   12.80%   12.33%   14.32%
Total past-due loan amounts as a percentage of total loans (9)
  1.93%   1.31%   0.75%   0.79%   1.60%
Reserves for loan losses as a percentage of total loans
  3.97%   3.24%   2.58%   2.15%   3.08%
Reserves for loan losses as a percentage of total loans  and other contingent credits (10)
  3.19%   2.59%   2.17%   1.84%   2.53%
Reserves for loan losses as a percentage of total past-due loans (11)
  206.22%   247.85%   343.68%   270.72%   191.99%
Reserves for loan losses as a percentage of substandard loans (12)
  65.42%   78.24%   100.45%   112.26%   99.45%

(1)
Provision for loan losses and reserve for loan losses include provisions and reserves with respect to total loans and contingent credits, net of write-off recoveries.
 
(2)
We have 100 million authorized common shares. As of December 31, 2009, we had issued 94.4 million common shares, of which 14.6 million were held by ASHC. The per common share data given considers net outstanding shares (common shares net of shares held by BCP, ASHC and PPS) of 79.7 million in 2002 to 2009. See Notes 16 and 25 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
(3)
Net of unearned interest, but prior to reserve for loan losses. In addition to loans outstanding, we had contingent loans of US$1,220.9 million, US$1,455.4 million, US$1,564.5 million, US$1,755.9 million and US$2,528.1 million, as of December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively. See Note 19 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
(4)
Net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets, computed as the average of period-beginning and period-ending balances on a monthly basis.
 
(5)
Net income as a percentage of average total assets, computed as the average of period-beginning and period-ending balances.
 
(6)
Net income as a percentage of average equity attributable to our equity holders, computed as the average of period-beginning and period-ending balances, and calculated on a monthly basis.
 
(7)
Sum of the salaries and employee’s benefits, administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, as a percentage of the sum of net interest income and non-interest income, less net gains from sales of securities and other income.
 
(8)
Regulatory capital calculated in accordance with guidelines by the Basel Committee on Banking Regulations and Supervisory Practices of International Settlements (or the BIS I Accord) as adopted by the SBS. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—(B) Liquidity and Capital Resources—Regulatory Capital and Capital Adequacy Ratios.”
 
(9)
BCP considers loans past due after 90 days for installment loans, which include mortgage loans but exclude consumer loans. ASHC considers past due all overdue loans except for consumer loans, which are considered past due when the scheduled principal and/or interest payments are overdue for more than 90 days. For IFRS 7 disclosure requirements on past-due loans, See Note 29.1 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information—(iii) Loan Portfolio—Classification of the Loan Portfolio Based on the Borrower’s Payment Performance.”

 
5

 
 
(10)
Other contingent credits primarily consist of guarantees, stand-by letters and letters of credit. See Note 19 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
(11)
Reserves for loan and contingent credit losses, as a percentage of all past-due loans, with no reduction for collateral securing such loans. Reserves for loan and contingent credit losses include reserves with respect to total loans and other credits.
 
(12)
Reserves for loan and contingent credit losses as a percentage of loans classified in categories C, D or E. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information—(iii) Loan Portfolio—Classification of Loan Portfolio.”
 
Exchange Rates
 
The following table sets forth the high and low month-end rates and the average and end-of-period rates for the sale of Nuevos Soles for U.S. Dollars for the periods indicated.
 
Year ended December 31,
 
High (1)
   
Low (1)
   
Average (2)
   
Period-end (3)
 
   
(Nominal Nuevos Soles per U.S. Dollar)
 
2005
  3.440     3.249     3.295     3.420  
2006
  3.455     3.195     3.274     3.195  
2007
  3.197     2.998     3.125     2.998  
2008
  3.135     2.751     2.939     3.135  
2009
  3.258     2.853     3.010     2.889  


Source: Bloomberg
(1)
Highest and lowest of the 12 month-end exchange rates for each year based on the offered rate.
(2)
Average of month-end exchange rates based on the offered rate.
(3)
End-of-period exchange rates based on the offered rate.
 
The following table sets forth the high and low rates for the sale of Nuevos Soles for U.S. Dollars for the indicated months.
 
   
High (1)
   
Low (1)
 
   
(Nominal Nuevos Soles per U.S. Dollar)
 
2009
           
December
  2.889     2.863  
2010
           
January
  2.889     2.845  
February
  2.871     2.845  
March
  2.846     2.837  
April
  2.848     2.836  
May
  2.855     2.836  
June (through June 14)
  2.851     2.844  


Source: Bloomberg
(1)         Highest and lowest of the daily closing exchange rates for each month based on the offered rate.

The average of the bid and offered free market exchange rates published by the SBS for June 14, 2010 was S/. 2.843 per US$1.00.
 
 
(B)
Capitalization and Indebtedness
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(C)
Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
 
Not applicable.

 
6

 
 
(D)
Risk Factors
 
Our businesses are affected by many external and other factors in the markets in which we operate. Different risk factors can impact our businesses, our ability to effectively operate and our business strategies. You should consider the risk factors carefully and read them in conjunction with all the information in this document.
 
Our geographic location exposes us to risk related to Peruvian political and economic conditions.
 
Most of BCP’s, PPS’s and Prima AFP’s operations and customers are located in Peru. In addition, although ASHC is based outside of Peru, most of its customers are located in Peru. Accordingly, our results of operations and financial conditions will be dependent on the level of economic activity in Peru. Changes in economic or other policies of the Peruvian government, which has exercised and continues to exercise a substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector, could affect our results of operations and financial condition. Similarly, other political or economic developments in Peru, including government-induced effects on inflation, devaluation and economic growth could affect our operations and financial condition.
 
For several decades, Peru had a history of political instability that has included military coups and a succession of regimes with differing policies and programs. Past governments have frequently intervened in the nation’s economy and social structure. Among other actions, past governments have imposed controls on prices, exchange rates, local and foreign investment, and international trade. Past governments have also restricted the ability of companies to dismiss employees, expropriated private sector assets and prohibited the payment of profits to foreign investors.
 
During the 1980s and the early 1990s, the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) and the Movimiento Revolucionario Tupac Amaru (MRTA) terrorist organizations were particularly active in Peru. Although the Shining Path and MRTA were almost de-activated in the 1990s, any resumption of activities by these or other terrorist organizations may adversely affect our operations.
 
In July 1990, Alberto Fujimori was elected President and implemented a broad-based reform of Peru’s political system and economic and social conditions. The reform was aimed at stabilizing the economy, restructuring the national government (by reducing bureaucracy), privatizing state-owned companies, promoting private investment, eradicating corruption and bribery in the judicial system, developing and strengthening free markets, institutionalizing democratic representation, and enacting programs designed to strengthen basic services related to education, health, housing and infrastructure. After taking office for his third term in July 2000, under extreme protest, President Fujimori was forced to call for general elections when corruption in his government was exposed to the public. Fujimori later resigned in favor of a transitory government.
 
In 2001, Alejandro Toledo became President, ending two years of political turmoil. President Toledo retained, for the most part, the economic policies of the previous government. He focused on promoting private investment, eliminating tax exemptions, and reducing underemployment and unemployment. President Toledo also implemented fiscal austerity programs, among other proposals, in order to stimulate the economy. Despite Peru’s moderate economic growth, the Toledo administration faced public unrest spurred by high rates of unemployment, underemployment and poverty.
 
In the elections held in April 2006, no presidential candidate received the required 50% or more of the votes. As a result, a second round election between the top two presidential candidates, Ollanta Humala Tasso from the Partido Unión por el Peru, or the UPP, and Alan García Pérez of the Partido Alianza Popular Revolucionaria, or APRA, was held on June 4, 2006. Although Alan García Pérez was elected and currently serves as President, he has no majority in Congress. President García had previously served as President of Peru from 1985 to 1990, a period which was marked by a severe economic crisis. He is following conservative economic policies and has indicated a desire to avoid the mistakes of his past government. The García administration has followed economic policies similar to those of the Toledo administration, which included achieving sustained economic growth, increasing exports of Peruvian goods, reducing unemployment, underemployment and poverty, reforming the tax system, fostering private investment and increasing public investment in education, public health and other social programs, while reducing overall public spending.

 
7

 
 
The Peruvian government’s economic policies during the last decade have provided the appropriate fundamentals to support positive performance by the Peruvian economy. As a result, the international financial crisis did not impact Peru as severely as other countries. In addition, the current government has also implemented a US$3 billion anti-crisis program to alleviate any effects from the crisis.  However, while the economic policies of recent Peruvian governments have been relatively stable, we cannot assure that future governments will maintain favorable economic policies.
 
Foreign exchange fluctuations and exchange controls may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
 
Even though the functional currency of our financial statements is U.S. Dollars and our dividends are paid in U.S. Dollars, BCP, PPS and Prima AFP for local statutory purposes, prepare their financial statements and pay dividends in Nuevos Soles. The Peruvian government does not currently impose restrictions on a company’s ability to transfer U.S. Dollars from Peru to other countries, to convert Peruvian currency into U.S. Dollars or to pay dividends abroad. Nevertheless, Peru has had restrictive exchange controls in the past, and there can be no assurance that the Peruvian government will continue to permit such transfers, payments or conversions without any restrictions. See “Item 10. Additional Information—(D) Exchange Controls.”  In addition, depreciation of the Nuevo Sol against the U.S. Dollar would decrease the U.S. Dollar value of any dividends BCP, PPS and Prima AFP pay us, which would have a negative impact on our ability to pay dividends to shareholders.
 
Although Peru’s foreign reserves currently compare favorably with those of many other Latin American countries, we cannot assure you that Peru will be able to maintain adequate foreign reserves to meet its foreign currency-denominated obligations. Similarly, we cannot assure you that Peru will not impose exchange controls should its foreign reserves decline. A decline in Peruvian foreign reserves to inadequate levels, among other economic circumstances, could lead to currency devaluation or a volatility of short-term capital inflows. We have taken steps to manage the gap between our foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities in several ways, including closely matching the volumes and maturities of our Nuevo Sol-denominated assets against our Nuevo Sol-denominated liabilities. Nevertheless, a sudden and significant devaluation of the Nuevo Sol could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk—Foreign Exchange Risk.”
 
Also, a significant group of BCP’s borrowers and PPS’s insureds generate Nuevo Sol revenues from their own clients. Devaluation of the Nuevo Sol against the U.S. Dollar could negatively impact BCP’s and PPS’s clients’ ability to repay loans or make premium payments. Despite any devaluation, and absent any change in foreign exchange regulations, BCP and PPS would be expected to continue to repay U.S. Dollar-denominated deposits and U.S. Dollar-denominated insurance benefits in U.S. Dollars. Therefore, any significant devaluation of the Nuevo Sol against the U.S. Dollar could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
 
It may be difficult to serve process on or enforce judgments against us or our principals residing outside of the United States.
 
A significant majority of our directors and officers live outside the United States (principally in Peru). All or most of our assets and those of our principals are located outside the United States. As a result, it may not be possible for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon us or our principals to bring forth a civil suit under the United States securities laws in United States courts. We have been advised by our Peruvian counsel that liability under the United States federal securities laws may not be enforceable in original actions in Peruvian courts. Also, judgments of United States courts obtained in actions under the United States federal securities laws may not be enforceable. Similarly, Bermudan counsel advised us that courts in Bermuda may not enforce judgments obtained in other jurisdictions, or entertain actions in Bermuda, against us or our directors or officers under the securities laws of those jurisdictions.

 
8

 
 
In addition, our bye-laws contain a broad waiver by shareholders of any claim or right of action, both individually and on our behalf, against any of our officers or directors. This waiver limits the rights of shareholders to assert claims against our officers and directors for any action taken by an officer or director. It also limits the rights of shareholders to assert claims against officers for the failure of an officer or director to take any action in the performance of his or her duties, except with respect to any matter involving any willful negligence, willful default, fraud or dishonesty on the part of the officer or director.
 
Our ability to pay dividends to shareholders and to pay corporate expenses may be adversely affected by the ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us.
 
As a holding company, our ability to make dividend payments, if any, and to pay corporate expenses will depend upon the receipt of dividends and other distributions from our operating subsidiaries. Our principal subsidiaries are BCP, PPS, ASHC and Grupo Crédito, which is Prima AFP’s owner. If our subsidiaries do not have funds available, or are otherwise restricted from paying us dividends, we may be limited in our ability to pay dividends to shareholders. Currently, there are no restrictions on the ability of BCP, ASHC, PPS or Grupo Crédito to pay dividends abroad. In addition, our right to participate in the distribution of assets of any subsidiary, upon any subsidiary’s liquidation or reorganization (and thus the ability of holders of our securities to benefit indirectly from such distribution), is subject to the prior claims of creditors of that subsidiary, except where we are considered a creditor of the subsidiary. Accordingly, our securities will effectively be subordinated to all existing and future liabilities of our subsidiaries, and holders of our securities should look only to our assets for payments.
 
A deterioration in the quality of our loan portfolio may adversely affect our results of operations.
 
Given that a significant percentage of our revenues are related to banking activities, a deterioration of loan quality may have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. On the one hand, loan portfolio risk associated with lending to certain economic sectors or clients in certain market segments can be mitigated through adequate diversification policies. On the other hand, our pursuit of opportunities in which we can charge higher interest rates, thereby increasing revenues, may reduce diversification of the loan portfolio and expose us to greater credit risk. We believe that significant opportunities exist in middle market, consumer lending and microfinance in Peru. We also believe that we can, on average, charge higher interest rates on such loans as compared with interest charged on loans in our core corporate banking business, made primarily to clients that operate in industrial and commercial economic sectors.
 
Accordingly, our strategy includes a greater emphasis on middle market, consumer loans and microfinance, as well as continued growth of our loan portfolio in general. An increase in the portfolio’s exposure to these areas could be accompanied by greater credit risk. The greater credit risk is not only due to the speed and magnitude of the increase, but also to the shift to lending to these sectors, which have higher risk profiles compared with loans to large corporate customers. Given the changing composition of our loan portfolio, historical loss experience may not be indicative of future loan loss experience.
 
Because we are subject to regulation and supervision in Peru, Bolivia, the Cayman Islands, the United States and Panama, changes to the regulatory framework in any of these countries could adversely affect our business.
 
We are mainly subject to extensive supervision and regulation through the SBS’s consolidated supervision regulations, which oversee all of our subsidiaries and offices including those located outside Peru. The SBS and the Banco Central de Reserva, or the Central Bank, supervise and regulate BCP’s operations. Peru’s constitution and the SBS’s statutory charter grant the SBS the authority to oversee and control banks and other financial institutions. The SBS and the Central Bank have general administrative responsibilities over BCP, including designation of capitalization and reserve requirements. In past years, the Central Bank has, on numerous occasions, changed the deposit reserve requirements applicable to Peruvian commercial banks as well as the rate of interest paid on deposit reserves and the amount of deposit reserves on which no interest is payable by the Central Bank. Such changes in the supervision and regulation of BCP may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP.” Furthermore, changes in regulation related to consumer protection may also affect our business.

 
9

 
 
We are also regulated by the United States Federal Reserve System, which shares its regulatory responsibility with the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance - Office of Financial Regulation. Similarly, we are regulated by other governmental entities in other jurisdictions. In the Cayman Islands, we are subject to the supervision and regulation of the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, or CIMA, while in Bolivia, we are subject to the supervision of the Superintendency of Banks and Financial Entities and regulations established by the Central Bank of Bolivia. In Panama, we are subject to the supervision of the Superintendency of Banks and the regulatory framework set forth in the Decree Law 9 of February 25, 1998. Changes in the supervision and regulation of our subsidiaries in other countries may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
Our banking operations in Bolivia expose us to risk related to Bolivian political and economic conditions.
 
Most of BCP Bolivia’s operations and customers are located in Bolivia. Accordingly, our results of operations and financial conditions depend on the level of economic activity in Bolivia. Bolivia’s macroeconomic indicators show positive performance by the country over the last several years:
 
 
·
Bolivia has reached a steady GDP growth rate that was not affected by the international financial crisis;
 
 
·
In 2009, Bolivia’s international reserve registered its highest level in Bolivian history;
 
 
·
The country’s inflation rate decreased to 0.3% and external debt was at its lowest level in 2009;
 
 
·
The Central Government also maintained a significant fiscal surplus, and Bolivia’s domestic currency has strengthened, causing an important de-dollarization of the national economy.
 
While we expect this economic stability to continue in the short-term, there is no assurance of continued stability and Bolivia’s long-term economic performance remains a concern. Bolivia has a high dependence on commodities exports and needs to generate larger local and foreign investment. These long-term concerns could adversely affect BCP Bolivia’s income and results of operation.
 
Changes to insurance regulations in Peru may impact the ability of our insurance subsidiary to underwrite and price risk effectively, and may adversely affect our operating performance and financial condition.
 
Our insurance business is carried out by our subsidiary PPS. The insurance business is subject to regulation by the SBS. Insurance regulations in Peru frequently change. New legislation or regulations may adversely affect PPS’s ability to underwrite and price risks accurately, which in turn would affect underwriting results and business profitability. PPS is unable to predict whether and to what extent new laws and regulations that would affect its business will be adopted in the future. PPS is also unable to predict the timing of any such adoption and the effects any new laws or regulations would have on its operations, profitability and financial condition.

 
10

 
 
Our operating performance and financial condition depend on PPS’s ability to underwrite and set premium rates accurately for a full spectrum of risks. PPS must generate sufficient premiums to offset losses, loss adjustment expenses and underwriting expenses to be profitable. To price premium rates accurately, PPS must:
 
 
·
collect and analyze a substantial volume of data;
 
 
·
develop, test and apply appropriate rating formulae;
 
 
·
closely monitor changes in trends in a timely fashion; and
 
 
·
project both severity and frequency with reasonable accuracy.
 
If PPS fails to assess accurately the risks that it assumes or does not accurately estimate its retention, it may fail to establish adequate premium rates. Failure to establish adequate premium rates could reduce income and have a materially adverse effect on its operating results or financial condition. Moreover, there is inherent uncertainty in the process of establishing property and casualty loss reserves. Reserves are estimates based on actuarial and statistical projections at a given point in time of what PPS ultimately expects to pay out on claims and the cost of adjusting those claims, based on the facts and circumstances then known. Factors affecting these projections include, among others, changes in medical costs, repair costs and regulation. Any negative effect on PPS could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
 
Regulatory changes to the private pension fund system in Peru could impact our earnings and adversely affect our operating performance.
 
Prima AFP manages our Pension Fund Administration business. In Peru, private pension fund managers are closely regulated by the SBS. Under the current regulatory framework, we collect commissions based on the salary of each subscriber to our pension funds. This commission-based system could be modified or eliminated by regulations that require pension fund managers to charge fees based on the balance of funds under their control. Any regulations requiring us to use a different methodology to calculate fees could negatively impact our performance.
 
We are facing increased competition that may impede our growth.
 
BCP has experienced increased competition, including increased pressure on margins. This is primarily a result of the presence of the following:
 
 
·
Highly liquid commercial banks in the market;
 
 
·
Local and foreign investment banks with substantial capital, technology, and marketing resources; and
 
 
·
Local pension funds that lend to BCP’s corporate customers through participation in those customers’ securities issues.
 
Larger Peruvian companies have gained access to new sources of capital through local and international capital markets, and BCP’s existing and new competitors have increasingly made inroads into the higher margin, middle market and retail banking sectors. Such increased competition, with entrants who may have greater access to capital at lower costs, has affected BCP’s loan growth as well as reduced the average interest rates that BCP can charge its customers.

 
11

 

Competitors may also appropriate greater resources to, and be more successful in, the development of technologically advanced products and services that may compete directly with BCP’s products and services. Such competition would adversely affect the acceptance of BCP’s products and/or lead to adverse changes in the spending and saving habits of BCP’s customer base. If competing entities are successful in developing products and services that are more effective or less costly than the products and services developed by BCP, BCP’s products and services may be unable to compete successfully. BCP may not be able to maintain its market share if it is not able to match its competitors’ loan pricing or keep pace with their development of new products and services. Even if BCP’s products and services prove to be more effective than those developed by other entities, such other entities may be more successful in marketing their products and services than BCP because of their greater financial resources, higher sales and marketing capacity or other similar factors. Any negative impact on BCP could have a materially adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
 
Fluctuation and volatility of capital markets and interest rates may decrease our net income.
 
We may suffer losses related to the investments by BCP, ASCH, PPS, Grupo Crédito and other subsidiaries in fixed income and equity securities, and to their respective positions in currency markets, because of changes in market prices, defaults, fluctuations in market interest rates or exchange rates or other reasons. A downturn in capital markets may result in a decline in the value of our positions and lead us to register net losses. In addition, a downturn in capital markets could also lead to volatile prices and negative net revenues from trading positions, even in the absence of a general economic downturn.
 
Fluctuations in market interest rates, or changes in the relative structure between short-term interest rates and long-term interest rates, could cause a decrease in interest rates charged on interest-earning assets, relative to interest rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Such an occurrence could adversely affect our financial condition by causing a decrease in net interest income.
 
 
ITEM 4.
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
 
(A)
History and Development of the Company
 
We are a limited liability company that was incorporated in Bermuda on October 20, 1995 to act as a holding company, coordinate the policy and administration of our subsidiaries, and engage in investing activities. Our principal activity is to coordinate and manage the business plans of our subsidiaries in an effort to implement universal banking services and develop our insurance business, focusing on Peru and Bolivia along with limited investments in other countries of the region. Our registered address is Clarendon House, 2 Church Street, Bermuda. The management and administrative office (i.e., principal place of business) in Peru of our subsidiary, Banco de Crédito del Perú, is located at Calle Centenario 156, La Molina, Lima 12, Peru, and the phone number is 51-1-313-2000.
 
We are the largest financial services holding company in Peru and are closely identified with our principal subsidiary, BCP, the country’s largest bank and the leading supplier of integrated financial services in Peru.
 
We are engaged principally in banking (including commercial and investment banking), insurance (including commercial property, transportation and marine hull, automobile, life, health and underwriting insurance), pension funds (including private pension fund management services), and brokerage and other (including brokerage, trust, custody and securitization services, asset management and proprietary trading and investment). As of December 31, 2009, our total assets were US$22.0 billion and our net equity was US$2.5 billion. Our net income attributable to our equity holders in 2008 and 2009 was US$357.8 million and US$469.8 million, respectively. See “Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”
 
For management purposes, the Group is organized into four operating segments based on products and services. In according to IFRS, an operating segment is a component of an entity that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses; whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the entity’s chief who makes decisions about resources allocation for the segment and assesses its performance; and for which discrete financial information is available. We conduct our financial services business through our operating segments as follows:

 
12

 
 
Banking: principally handling loans, credit facilities, deposits and current accounts, and providing investment banking services, including corporate finance, both for corporate and institutional customers.  Banking also includes handling deposits consumer loans and credit cards facilities for individual customers.
 
Insurance: including commercial property, transportation and marine hull, automobile, life, health and pension fund underwriting insurance.
 
Pension funds: providing private pension fund management services to contributors.
 
Brokerage and others: including the structuring and placement of primary market issues and the execution and trading of secondary market transactions. This segment also includes offers of local securitization structuring to corporate entities, management of mutual funds and other services.
 
The following table gives certain financial information about us by principal business segments as of and for the year ended December 31, 2009 (See Note 26 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements):
 
   
As of and for the Year ended December 31, 2009
 
   
Total
Revenues
   
Operating
Income
   
Total
Assets
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in millions)
 
Banking
  US$ 1,820     US$ 831     US$ 20,120  
Insurance
  518     192     1,457  
Pension fund
  80     0     237  
Brokerage and others
  40     8     214  
Credicorp
  US$ 2,458     US$ 1,031     US$ 22,028  
 
We conduct our commercial banking and investment banking activities primarily through BCP, the largest (in terms of total assets, loans, deposits, net equity and net income) full-service Peruvian commercial bank, and ASHC, a diversified financial services company. We conduct our pension fund business through Prima AFP and our insurance activities through PPS, which is the second largest Peruvian insurance company in terms of premiums, fees and net income. You should note that the term “Peruvian commercial bank,” “Peruvian insurance company” and other similar terms used in this Annual Report do not include the assets, results or operations of any foreign parent company or foreign subsidiary of such Peruvian company.
 
We were formed in 1995 for the purpose of acquiring, through an exchange offer, the common shares of BCP, ASHC and PPS. Pursuant to this exchange offer, in October 1995 we acquired 90.1% of BCP, 98.2% of ASHC and 75.8% of PPS. We acquired the remaining 1.8% outstanding shares of ASHC in March 1996, pursuant to another exchange offer. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(C) Organizational Structure.”
 
In December 1995, we purchased 99.99% of Inversiones Crédito (whose name has changed to Grupo de Crédito), a non-financial entity with assets of US$376.9 million as of December 2009. Grupo de Crédito’s main subsidiary is Prima AFP.
 
In August 1997, we acquired 39.5% of BCB from BCP for US$9.2 million. In July 1998, we acquired 94.86% of Banco de La Paz, a Bolivian bank with US$52.1 million in assets, which we subsequently merged with BCB in January 1999. During this time, we also increased our beneficial ownership in BCB to 55.79%, which left BCP with ownership of the remaining 44.21%. In November 2001, however, BCP bought back 55.53% of our interest in BCB for US$31.5 million. As of December 31, 2009, BCB operated 65 branches and 172 ATMs located throughout Bolivia. BCB’s results have been consolidated in the BCP financial statements since the date of its acquisition by BCP in November 1993.

 
13

 
 
In 1997, we acquired Banco Tequendama, a Colombian banking enterprise. In 2002, we sold Banco Tequendama’s Venezuelan branches. In March 2005, we then sold Banco Tequendama to a Colombian bank. While this sale was publicly announced in October 2004 and became effective on January 1, 2005, it was not completed until March 2005 after all required approvals were obtained from the Colombian authorities. We did not record any significant gain or loss as a result of this transaction.
 
In March 2002, we made a tender offer for outstanding BCP shares for S/.1.80 per share, approximately equal to the book value of such shares, disbursing directly and through our subsidiary PPS an amount of approximately US$35.3 million. As a result of the tender offer, our equity stake in BCP increased from 90.6% to 97.0% (including shares held by PPS).
 
In December 2002, BCP acquired Banco Santander Central Hispano-Perú (BSCH-Perú) for US$50.0 million. Since that date, BSCH-Perú has been included in BCP’s consolidated financial statements. On December 31, 2002, BSCH-Perú had total assets of US$975.2 million, total loans of US$719.4 million and deposits of US$659.0 million. BSCH-Perú was merged into BCP on February 28, 2003.
 
In March 2003, BCP added to its 55% stake by acquiring for US$17.0 million the remaining 45% of the equity shares of Solución Financiera de Crédito del Perú S.A. (Solución) from Banco de Crédito e Inversiones de Chile (BCI) and other foreign shareholders. As a result, Solución once again became a BCP wholly-owned subsidiary. In March 2004, substantially all of Solución’s assets and liabilities were absorbed into BCP’s Peruvian banking operations. Solución’s net income in 2003 was US$7.6 million, and it had, as of February 28, 2004, a loan portfolio of US$88.4 million, with a 3.0% past-due ratio.
 
In 2003, BCP converted Banco de Crédito Overseas Limited (BCOL), its offshore bank in the Bahamas, into a vehicle to conduct investments and sold it to ASHC. ASHC then consolidated BCOL into its operations during 2004. In accordance with our policy regarding holdings of equity interests in non-financial companies, we then caused certain long-term equity interests that were previously held by BCOL to be transferred to BCP and then in turn transferred to Grupo Crédito. In April 2004, PPS sold substantially all of its holdings of our equity shares to ASHC (See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—(A) Major Shareholders”).
 
In March 2004, PPS acquired 100% of Novasalud Perú S.A. – Entidad Prestadora de Salud (Novasalud EPS), which is one of three private health insurance providers in Peru, for US$6.5 million. PPS then merged Novasalud EPS with Pacífico S.A. Entidad Prestadora de Salud (Pacífico Salud), a subsidiary of PPS.
 
In January 2005, BCP and Bank of America, which is the principal shareholder of Fleet Boston N.A., agreed to engage in a buy-sale transaction of the loan portfolio of the Peruvian branch of Bank Boston N.A. BCP paid approximately US$353.8 million in cash for the loan portfolio, which included commercial loans, mortgage and leasing operations. The transaction was recorded at acquisition cost.
 
In February 2005, we were authorized by Peruvian regulatory authorities to establish Prima AFP, of which Grupo Crédito is the main shareholder. Prima AFP started operations in August 2005.
 
In August 2006, Prima AFP acquired Unión Vida AFP, which is a pension fund operating in the Peruvian market. Prima AFP’s acquisition of Unión Vida AFP, which was formerly held by Grupo Santander Perú S.A., was a strategic move toward consolidation as part of its efforts to gain a leading position in the pension fund market. This acquisition enabled Prima AFP to position itself as the second ranking company in terms of market share terms (defined as the amount of affiliates and assets under corporate management), with the second highest returns and the lowest commission for affiliates (who invest a portion of their salary each month). The merger between Prima AFP and Unión Vida AFP was consummated in December 2006.

 
14

 
 
In 2006, Prima AFP incurred significant merger expenses relative to its size, reaching the end of the year with losses of US$20.7 million. However, Prima AFP had a net income of US$20.8 million during 2009, with 1,078,317 affiliates and US$6,583 million of funds under its management.
 
In November 2006, we bought PPS’s remaining 1.02% of BCP shares, generating goodwill, valued at approximately US$7.2 million, from to the minority interest we acquired (0.25%).
 
In October 2009, BCP acquired from the Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere Inc. (CARE) – Perú, all the shares that this entity owned of Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A. (Edyficar), representing 77.12% of Edyficar’s capital stock. In accordance with Peruvian legal requirements in effect at the time, BCP made a public offering to Edyficar’s minority shareholders to acquire the remaining 22.66% of the company’s stock. At the end of both processes, BCP owned 99.78% of Edyficar. The total purchase price for the acquisition was US$96.1 million, including related direct acquisition costs.
 
The following tables show our organization and the organization of our principal subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and their relative percentage contribution to our total assets, total revenues, net income and net equity at the same date (see “—(C) Organizational Structure”):
 



(1)   Includes Prima AFP and others.

   
As of and for the Year ended December 31, 2009 (1)
 
   
Total Assets
 
Total Revenue
 
Net Income (Loss)
 
Net Equity
 
Banco de Crédito del Perú
  87.2%   72.8%   84.6%   70.6%  
Atlantic Security Holding Corporation
  4.6%   2.3%   6.3%   9.3%  
El Pacífico-Peruano Suiza Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros (2)
  6.6%   21.3%   10.5%   8.2%  
Grupo Crédito (3)
  1.3%   3.5%   5.7%   9.4%  
Others (4)
  0.3%   0.1%   -7.1%   2.5%  


(1)      Percentages determined based on the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)      Includes PPS and Pacífico Vida.
(3)      Includes Prima AFP and others.
(4)      Includes Credicorp Ltd., CCR Inc., Credicorp Securities Inc. and others.
 
 
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The following tables show the organization of BCP and its principal subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009:
 


   
As of and for the Year ended December 31, 2009 (2)
 
   
Total
Assets
 
Total
Revenue
 
Net Income
(Loss)
 
Net
Equity
 
Banco de Crédito del Perú
  92.0%   90.6%   86.5%   83.3%  
Banco de Crédito de Bolivia
  5.6%   5.8%   8.9%   6.2%  
Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A.
  1.4%   1.1%   0.3%   2.4%  
Financiera de Crédito Solución
  0.3%   0.3%   0.3%   0.4%  
Credifondo S.A.
  0.1%   1.2%   3.0%   1.5%  
Credibolsa Sociedad Agente de Bolsa S.A.
  0.1%   0.3%   -0.1%   0.6%  
Others (3)
  0.5%   0.7%   1.1%   5.6%  


(1)       We hold an additional 4.08% stake.
(2)       Percentages determined based on BCP’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2009.
(3)       Includes Creditítulos S.A., Inmobiliaria BCP and others.
 
 
 (B)
Business Overview
 
(1)      Introduction – Review of 2009
 
General
 
We conduct our business operations through four different operating segments: Banking (which includes BCP, ASHC, BCB, Edyficar, and other minor financial subsidiaries), Insurance (which includes Pacífico Peruano Suiza and its subsidiaries), Pension funds (which includes Prima AFP, main subsidiary of Grupo Crédito), and Brokerage and other (which include principally Credifondo, Credibolsa, and others).
 
Despite the persistent weakness in global financial markets and the contraction of the real economy at the beginning of the year, in 2009 we recorded net income after minority interests of US$469.8 million, which was 31.3% higher than our net earnings in 2008. This result reflected the strong performance of our subsidiaries, led by our non-banking, insurance and asset management businesses, which recovered from the international financial crisis that began in 2007.

 
16

 

Our total assets grew to US$22.0 billion as of December 31, 2009, a 5.8% increase from the US$20.8 billion in assets we held as of December 31, 2008. Our increase in total assets was a result of our modest loan growth. Loans grew by 9.9% in 2009 (compared to 27.8% in 2008 and 39.2% in 2007), following the slowdown of the Peruvian economy (which had a GDP growth rate of 9.8% in 2008 and a GDP growth rate of 0.9% in 2009). As a result of the world recession, which had a greater impact on the Peruvian market than we expected, provision for loan losses net of recoveries increased by 235.1% to US$163.4 million (compared to US$48.8 million in 2008). Our past-due and under legal collection loan ratio increased to 1.60% by the end of 2009 (compared to a ratio of 0.79% at the end of 2008), reflecting the effects of the international financial crisis on the Peruvian domestic economy. We had a coverage ratio of 192.0% (i.e., reserves for loans as a percentage of past-due loans), and our return on average net equity increased to 23.7% in 2009 (compared to 20.2% in 2008).
 
 
Banking segment
 
BCP
 
In 2009, we received an earnings contribution of US$388.5 million resulting from BCP’s year-end 2009 net profit that totaled US$397.4 million. This earnings contribution was 5.4% lower than last year’s contribution (US$410.9 million) and was a product of the general contraction in demand for loans caused by the global economic downturn. As a result, BCP’s average return on net equity (ROE) decreased to 26.7%.
 
Despite the troubled economy, BCP remained profitable. The main drivers behind the company’s performance were: i) the 7.4% growth in its operating income that resulted from strong financial management and a 9.3% increase in banking fees; ii) the 147.9% increase in income the company realized from the sale of securities  resulting from sound decisions by BCP’s treasury managers, which identified a profitable opportunity to participate in the purchase-sale of sovereign and global bonds; and iii) the significant rise in translation gains from a loss of US$12.2 million in 2008 to a gain of US$7.7 million in 2009.
 
Performance in these areas enabled BCP to offset the company’s steep 222% increase in provisions and 15.6% increase in operating expenses. The higher operating expenses were a result of BCP’s aggressive network expansion during the previous two years and the initial cost of its initiatives to improve long-term efficiency. These higher operating expenses were exacerbated by the 8.0% appreciation of the Nuevo Sol against the U.S. dollar over the year, as a significant portion of BCP’s operating expenses are denominated in local currency.
 
BCP’s total assets reached US$19.6 billion at the end of 2009, representing an increase of 7.1% over the previous year (US$18.3 billion). This increase in total assets was a result of the 9.8% expansion of BCP’s loan portfolio, which totaled US$11.2 billion at the end of 2009. The loan portfolio constituted 57.4% of BCP’s total assets at the end of 2009, up from 55.9% in 2008. BCP’s total past-due loans reached US$183.8 million (123.9% higher than the US$82.1 million registered in 2008) while refinanced and restructured loans increased by 7.8%, from US$53.7 million in 2008 to US$58.2 million at the end of 2009. The composition of BCP’s loan portfolio in 2009 did not change significantly—wholesale banking and retail banking accounted for 60% and 40% of its total portfolio, respectively (similar to the levels registered in 2008 (62% and 38%)).
 
The average daily balances of BCP’s wholesale banking loans grew by 8.3% in 2009, exceeding our expectations in light of the economic slowdown, the high frequency of postponed corporate investment plans and the reduced level of corporate inventories in Peru. As a result, BCP continued to lead the Peruvian financial system with a market share of 46.0% for the corporate segment and 33.3% for the middle market.
 
BCP’s retail banking portfolio continued its upward trend and grew 17.5% in 2009, reaching an average daily balance of US$3,985. In terms of growth and yields, BCP’s consumer loans were its best performing product, reaching 25.9% growth (measured in average daily balances) to a total volume of US$779 million, followed by credit cards which grew 17.7% to US$453 million. SME loans grew 16.1% to US$1,309 million, while mortgage credits expanded 14.6%, totaling US$1,444 million.

 
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On the liabilities side, BCP’s deposits reached US$14,466 million on December 31, 2009 (a 2.9% increase from the previous year). This increase in deposits not only continues to reinforce BCP’s funding structure as deposits account for 74.9% of all funding sources, but it also serves to maintain BCP’s status as an industry leader with a market share of 34.2%. Time deposits continued to be BCP’s largest deposit type, totaling US$5,361 million as of December 31, 2009. Demand deposits, BCP’s second-largest deposit type, reached US$4,495 million. Savings deposits totaled US$3,540 million while Severance Accounts, or CTS, totaled US$1,070 million.
 
BCP’s bonds gained greater relevance within the funding structure and, at year end, accounted for 13.8% of the total funds of the bank. In 2009, BCP completed two successful issues, one debt issue and one capital issue.
 
A first issue, in the form of debt, was made through BCP Emisiones LATAM 1 (a subsidiary of Credicorp) and offered an equivalent of US$107 million (UF 2.7 million) in five year bonds for sale in Chilean markets. The demand for these bonds was high, and the offering exceeded our expectations as a cross-section of institutional investors (including pension fund administration companies, mutual funds and banks) purchased the bonds. This issue enabled us to not only diversify our funding sources, but also secure a favorable interest rate.
 
The capital issue was the first of its kind for BCP. It involved the successful placement of hybrid bonds, instruments possessing equity characteristics that enable them to be included in the regulatory capital of the bank. The hybrid bond issue was for US$250 million at 60 years, with a coupon rate of 9.75% per year. Demand for the hybrid bonds was more than four times the offer. The purpose of this issue was to strengthen BCP’s regulatory capital, an important part of BCP’s strategy to absorb the financial growth it anticipates the company will experience as a result of both increased market penetration and economic expansion.
 
BCP has conservative provisioning and long-term risk management policies, however, its coverage ratio decreased from 271.98% in 2008 to 192.3% in 2009. Total cumulative provisions reached US$353.3 million as of December 31, 2009, which is 58.3% higher than provisions in the previous year.
 
In 2009, BCP continued to focus its strategy on strengthening its customer service, which is related to its goal of providing quality and widespread customer access to the financial system and thereby increasing the company’s penetration into the market. In following its network expansion plan, BCP focused on cost-efficient channels, opening ATMs and Agente BCP, which grew 11.9% and 51.3%, respectively. By the end of 2009, BCP had a total of 996 ATMs and 2,801 Agentes BCP. As a result of this strategy, BCP’s average number of transactions in 2009 increased 18.3% from 2008 and its transactional business was therefore able to generate higher income from fees and commissions.
 
Overall, BCP’s results met our expectations and remained profitable despite the global recession.
 
BCP Bolivia
 
In 2009, Banco de Crédito de Bolivia (BCP Bolivia) had a net income of US$30.4 million, a 29% decline from its 2008 net income of US$42.9 million. The bank’s performance was the result of its lower net financial income due to smaller loan growth and a tighter interest margin on investments. BCP Bolivia also incurred higher operating expenses and generated lower non financial income due to regulatory changes that increased salaries and eliminated certain banking commissions. The earnings that BCP Bolivia reported in 2008 were also higher because they incorporated a translation gain from the appreciation of Bolivia’s domestic currency against the U.S. Dollar. In contrast, the translation gain for 2009 was essentially zero, as the exchange rate remained flat.
 
In 2009, BCP Bolivia maintained its status as one of the top banks in Bolivia. In each of the following categories, the bank outperformed the industry average in the Bolivian banking system: return on equity (30.4%), past-due loan ratio (1.8%) and coverage ratio (257.9%) (as compared to industry averages of 21.8%, 3.5% and 167.5%, respectively).

 
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BCP Bolivia’s loan portfolio expanded by 0.8% from 2008, totaling US$460.2 million in 2009. This expansion was mainly due to a 4.5% growth in retail banking.
 
Although BCP Bolivia made a positive contribution to our results in 2009, the country of Bolivia still experiences a volatile political environment and shows evidence of significant stagnation in private investment activity.
 
Edyficar
 
Since BCP acquired Edyficar in October 2009, the consolidation of Edyficar’s results into BCP’s financial statements resulted in a total contribution of US$1.1 million (representing Edyficar’s net income from the fourth quarter of 2009). As of December 31, 2009, Edyficar registered total assets of US$275.3 million which consisted of US$229.2 million from the company’s net loan portfolio, its main asset. Total liabilities increased to US$233.9 million, which included US$179.5 million from banking activities. Net shareholders’ equity reached US$41.4 million at the end of 2009.
 
Edyficar focuses on SME lending and, together with BCP, it held a 20.0% market share in terms of loans at the end of 2009 (compared to a market share of 17.9% held by its closest competitor). As of December 31, 2009, its client base registered 213 thousand clients, a base 17.9% larger than in 2008. The average amount of an Edyficar loan in 2009 was S/. 3,380 (approximately US$1,170). Edyficar registered a PDL ratio of 3.9% at the end of 2009, a reflection if its portfolio quality. In local accounting Edyficar reached a return on equity of 21.7% and an efficiency ratio of 43.8%.
 
The acquisition of Edyficar was part of BCP’s strategy to capture most of the SME segment’s growth, which is expected to expand significantly over the next several years. BCP intends to support Edyficar’s growth and development by improving its funding cost and structure and providing the capital and technology that Edyficar needs.
 
ASHC
 
Of all our subsidiaries, ASHC experienced the most severe effects from the global financial crisis. In the year since then, ASHC has recovered substantially. The company’s net earnings for 2009 amounted to US$54.1 million, reversing the loss of US$22.4 million reported the previous year. As a result, the contribution of ASHC to Credicorp, net of dividends received, amounted to US$29.7 million, a significant improvement over the US$50.4 million loss reported in 2008.
 
Net income from interest in 2009 totaled US$52.4 million (including the US$21.9 million dividends received from Credicorp Ltd.), which represented an increase of 11% from the previous year. This rise in net income was primarily due to the company’s greater financial margin, which in turn was a result of the company’s lower funding cost (the 2009 cost was 16% below the cost in 2008). This lower funding cost reflected the steady decline of LIBOR rates during the year, a favorable scenario for the bank given the short-term structure of its customers’ deposits and their fast re-pricing, in contrast to assets engaged for longer terms and at higher interest rates. Non-financial income reached US$20.8 million and included income from fees, the sale of securities and foreign exchange operations.
 
ASHC’s total assets were US$1,484.8 million as of December 31, 2009, an increase of 2% from 2008. This increase in total assets was primarily a result of the appreciation in value of ASHC’s Investments Available for Sale account. That account recovered approximately US$70 million of its value, which in turn produced unrealized gains of US$23.3 million in 2009. In contrast, that same account produced an unrealized loss of US$46.7 million in 2008.
 
Finally, at the end of 2009, assets under ASHC’s management totaled US$2,177 million, compared to US$1,639 million in 2008. This growth was primarily a result of the increase in the market value of our portfolio that followed the larger recovery in global financial markets.

 
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Insurance segment
 
PPS
 
In 2009, PPS, which encompasses Pacífico Seguros, Pacífico Vida and Pacífico Salud EPS, reported a net income of US$49.2 million (compared to a US$15.0 million net loss in 2008). As a result, the contribution we received from PPS increased considerably, from a loss of US$15.9 million in 2008 to a gain of US$37.4 million in 2009. This record high contribution from PPS was primarily attributable to a significant reduction in the claims rate by customers of Pacifico General Insurance, a rate which dropped from 87.2% to 53.3%. The lower claims rate for the year was in turn the result of on-going efforts, which began in 2006, to improve the company’s risk diversification strategy and lower the concentration of the company’s portfolio.
 
The technical result PPS obtained in 2009, which reflects the company’s core business performance for the year, was US$79.9 million, a significant improvement over the 2008 result. This improved technical result followed a reduction in the overall claims rate, which went from 84.3% in 2008 to 65.2% in 2009, and was the product of changes and improvements that PPS implemented over the last several years through underwriting management and operating controls.
 
In 2010, PPS will continue to focus on its retail business by developing products to introduce customers to the advantages of insurance. There is enormous growth potential in Peru’s insurance market, given the industry’s weak market penetration. Efficiency and risk management will continue to be key indicators in measuring PPS’s performance. Efficiently utilizing the BCP network is an essential component of PPS’s growth strategy for 2010 since capitalizing on synergies between the insurance business and the distribution channels of the banking business may lead PPS to greater penetration in the insurance market.
 
 
Pension fund segment
 
Prima AFP
 
Peruvian pension funds experienced a better year in 2009.   The financial markets stabilized and continued a trend toward recovery. These favorable economic conditions led to an increase in the market value of funds under Prima AFP’s management, a value that reached US$23.9 billion on December 31, 2009 and represented a 51% year-over-year increase.
 
Prima AFP was able to strengthen its position in the market by adjusting its processes and organization to provide high-quality services and timely and transparent information to its clients. As a result, the contribution we received from Prima AFP in 2009 reached US$20.8 million, as compared to US$11.2 million in 2008.
 
Funds under management of Prima AFP increased 47.6% from US$4.9 billion in 2008 to US$6.6 billion as of December 31, 2009. By year-end 2009, Prima AFP’s share of total funds under management was 30.6%, unchanged from 2008, making Prima AFP the second largest fund management company in Peru.
 
Prima AFP’s revenues from commissions in 2009 reached US$78.8 million, an 11.4% increase from 2008. This improvement in performance was a result of a stable and improved portfolio of contributing members that was supported by the increase of administration fee from 1.50% to 1.75% since January 200. Unlike the revenues Prima AFP reported in 2008, Prima AFP’s revenues in 2009 included 13, rather than 14, contribution periods because the Peruvian government, as part of its anti-crisis plan, exempted affiliates from deductions on additional salaries that must be paid in July and December under Peruvian labor law.

 
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In 2010 Prima AFP plans to maximize its contribution to us by obtaining moderate growth in its client base, a goal consistent with our expectation that the Peruvian economy will expand over the next year. Prima AFP also plans to continue to reinforce its position in the market, strengthen its affiliate base and progressively incorporate independent workers into pension plans designed specifically for that segment of the labor market.
 
To improve its operating results, Prima AFP will continue to focus on increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Emphasis will also be placed on improving Prima AFP’s long-term stability through better risk management, one of the company’s highest priorities.
 
The following table sets forth the contribution to the consolidated net income attributable to our equity holders by each of our principal subsidiaries:
 
   
2007
 
2008
 
2009
 
Variation 
2009/2008
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in millions, except percentages)
 
BCP (1)
  322.5   410.9   388.5   -5%  
ASCH
  20.5   (50.4)   29.7   159%  
PPS
  9.4   (15.9)   37.4   335%  
Grupo Crédito (2)
  (1.7)   13.2   14.2   8%  
Total
  350.7   357.8   469.8   31%  
 

 
(1)
Includes Banco de Crédito de Bolivia, which contributed US$30.3 million in 2009, US$42.9 million in 2008 and US$27.0 million in 2007.
(2)
Includes Prima AFP (which recorded a net income of US$20.8 million in 2009, US$11.2 million in 2008 and US$3.0 million in 2007), Credicorp Securities, Credicorp Ltd. (which mainly includes expenses and the tax withheld in connection with the estimation of the dividends to be distributed to us by our Peruvian subsidiaries (BCP and PPS)) and others.

 
(2)     Strategy
 
Credicorp was established to create a financial group that would benefit from the synergies among the group’s companies and would become a leader within each business market in which the companies operate. In moving steadily toward achieving these strategic goals, we have become a leading financial group. However, we do not operate in a static environment and the last two years have demonstrated how quickly and dramatically the world can change. Peru’s economic growth slowed significantly in 2009 as a result of the international recession. This led us to take steps toward improving our long-term sustainability and positioning our companies for growth as Peru’s needs evolve.
 
The Peruvian market offers one of the greatest growth opportunities in South America. In the banking, insurance and pension fund industries, market penetration by service providers remains low. Accordingly, we have revisited our business plans, incorporating strategies that will enable us to reach underserved segments of the Peruvian population and achieve higher returns on our capital. As our businesses expand, it becomes increasingly important for us to maximize efficiencies and control risk. Strength in these areas will be the cornerstone of a healthy, sustained and profitable growth.
 
The growth strategies we have adopted for each of our companies contain a focus on retail markets. Using our collective resources, we are developing information systems that can collect commercial sales information and provide us with the data we need to process scoring models by segment. This will enhance our ability to assess and control risk.

 
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We also continue to makes strides toward greater integration of our companies by more extensively sharing our talents, intelligence, and experience. Two examples of our most successful integrations, involved gains in our ability to manage assets and provide insurance products:
 
Asset Management
 
The success of our growth strategy depends on our ability to effectively manage our assets and the assets of our clients. In 2009, we undertook a comprehensive review of our asset management systems. As a result of our review, we adopted a new asset management strategy, based on international best practices, in all the areas of the corporation that manage investment funds. We also adopted a unified set of standards and policies designed to protect the interests of our investors and ultimately maximize our profitability.
 
We also streamlined our asset management systems by making greater use of technology. Our new tools will allow us to access risk more effectively and tailor our products to meet the specific needs of our customers. In addition, we adopted new service models that will enable us to continue to provide quality service as our company continues to grow.
 
Insurance Business
 
We made significant changes to our insurance business in 2009. Encouraging our subsidiaries to work together, we created new distribution channels for our insurance products. For example, we now offer our insurance products through the BCP network, which has historically focused on the commercial and retail banking markets. This more integrated approach has enabled us to expand our insurance customer base and increase our profitability.
 
We also implemented several changes to our managerial structure. We now rotate our managers among our primary subsidiaries. This practice prevents entrenchment, giving our managers a better understanding of our operations across markets. We also established new management committees, comprised of representatives from each of our primary subsidiaries. These committees have already proven to be a value resource, offering effective problem-solving strategies and spurring innovation.
 
Outlook for 2010
 
We expect economic conditions in Peru to continue to improve in 2010. Throughout the year, we will continue to take a development-oriented approach, preparing for changes in the Peruvian market, which is expected to have high growth rates in the upcoming years. Given the low levels of competition in Peru’s banking and insurance markets, our subsidiaries will be well positioned to expand. Our high equity, sound levels of technical and professional expertise, and strong relationships built on the trust of our customers, are all signals indicating a positive outlook for the Company.
 
 
(3)     Credicorp Operating Segments
 
Banking
 
The majority of our banking business is carried out through BCP, which is our largest subsidiary and the oldest bank in Peru. A portion of our banking business is also carried out by ASHC, which principally serves Peruvian private banking customers through offices in Panama. We conduct banking activities in Bolivia through BCB, a full service commercial bank and the fourth largest Bolivian bank in terms of loans and deposits, with 11.8% and 13.0% market share, respectively.
 
Our banking business is organized into wholesale banking activities, which are carried out by BCP’s wholesale banking group (which includes the corporate banking operations of ASHC), and retail banking activities, which are carried out by BCP’s retail banking group. To increase our visibility and raise our market share in the retail banking industry, BCP bought Edyficar, which is a scaled, high-growth and highly profitable microfinance business. Edyficar has a solid risk management strategy and a proven track record in both loan portfolio growth and social impact. The company provides financial services for low-income micro-entrepreneurs and unbanked communities.

 
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We apply uniform credit policies and approval and review procedures, which are based on conservative criteria adopted by BCP, to all of BCP’s subsidiaries. Our general manager is in charge of setting the general credit policies for our different business areas. These policies are set within the guidelines established by Peruvian financial sector laws and SBS regulations (See¾(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP”) and the guidelines set forth by our Board of Directors.
 
Our deposit-taking operations are principally managed by BCP’s retail banking group and ASHC’s private banking group. See¾(12) Selected Statistical Information—(iv) Deposits.”
 
Pension funds, brokerage and others
 
The majority of our trading and brokerage activities are conducted through BCP, ASHC and Credicorp Securities Inc. (also referred to as Credicorp Securities), which is one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. Credicorp Securities is a U.S. registered broker-dealer with its offices in Miami. Our asset management business is carried out by BCP in Peru, through its subsidiary Credifondo, by ASHC and by Prima AFP, the pension fund administrator.
 
We offer Brokerage and other services through BCP and ASHC. BCP offers clients a wide range of such products and services, such as brokerage, mutual funds and custody services through its branch network in Lima and, on a more limited basis, throughout the rest of Peru. In addition, we also distribute such products through ASHC.
 
In the last few years, we have consolidated an important line of business, asset management, for our customers. As of December 31, 2009 our assets under management totaled US$11.1 billion, an increase of 56.8% from 2008, which was mainly due to the market recovery after a drastic drop in the market values of securities caused by the international financial crisis. The majority of our asset management business is performed through our subsidiary, Prima AFP.
 
Mutual funds represent another important contributor to our asset management business, carried out through BCP’s mutual funds subsidiary, Credifondo Sociedad Administradora de Fondos Mutuos (or Credifondo). Credifondo leads the Peruvian market with a share of 45.2% of the total assets currently under management. Finally, BCP’s affiliate, Atlantic Security Bank, offers the international mutual funds and financial advisory services to BCP’s private banking customers.
 
We established a corporate supervision project entitled “Asset Management” due to the size of these businesses, the importance of the commissions they generate and, above all, the fiduciary responsibility they entail. The main objectives of the project are to establish homogeneous risk control and investment policies based on best international practices. The Asset Management business has four main components:
 
 
·
Portfolio Management:  We seek to consolidate the good performance of our portfolios and funds through strict risk control and an appropriate level of diversification. To achieve this, we focus on improving three key aspects: investment policies, investment processes and management metrics.
 
 
·
Financial Management:  We focus on providing quality financial advisory services, building customer loyalty, and encouraging customers to invest in a diverse combination of securities according to their risk profile. Our objective is to improve the standards of the advisory services that our commercial bank offers and to distinguish between the levels of advisory services provided to different sectors.

 
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·
Brokerage: We attempt to provide a timely and high quality service, offering competitive execution costs, channeling a greater proportion of the assets traded by our companies to profitable investments and identifying opportunities for joint action (resulting in better prices), in addition to improving controls aimed at avoiding possible conflicts of interest.
 
 
·
Risk Analysis: We seek to identify, quantify, regulate and, ultimately, minimize the risks associated with operations, credit, market, liquidity, legal contingencies, conflict of interests and other risks. Another objective of our risk analysis is setting corporate investment limits, creating a portfolio investments risk manual, and ensuring strict compliance with risk control rules.
 
Insurance
 
We conduct our insurance operations exclusively through PPS and its subsidiaries, which provide a broad range of insurance products. PPS focuses on three business areas, general insurance through Pacífico Seguros, life and pension insurance through Pacífico Vida, and health care insurance through Pacífico Salud EPS. PPS, like other major Peruvian insurance companies, sells its products both directly and through independent brokers and agents. Directly written policies tend to be for large commercial clients, as well as for life and health insurance lines.
 
 
(4)     BCP and Subsidiaries
 
(i)      General
 
BCP’s activities include commercial banking, investment banking and retail banking. As of December 31, 2009, the consolidated operations of BCP ranked first among Peruvian banks in terms of total assets of US$19.6 billion, total loans of US$11.2 billion, deposits of US$14.5 billion and net equity of US$1.7 billion. At the end of 2009, BCP’s loans, on an unconsolidated basis, represented approximately 33.4% and the deposits represented approximately 34.2% of the total Peruvian banking system, respectively.
 
As of December 31, 2009, BCP had the largest branch network of any commercial bank in Peru with 334 branches. BCP operates an agency in Miami and a branch in Panama. In addition, as of December 31, 2009 Edyficar had 96 offices through which it serves its clients.
 
As of and for the year ended December 31, 2009, BCP accounted for 72.8% of our total revenues, 87.2% of total assets, 84.6% of net income and 70.6% of net equity. BCP’s operations are supervised and regulated by the SBS and the Central Bank.
 
BCP groups its client base according to the following criteria:
 
Client Segmentation
Group
 
Sales (US$MM)
Micro-business
 
Up to 0.5 or total debt of 0.2
Small Business
 
From 0.5 to 6.6 or total debt of 1.0
Middle market
 
From 6.7 to 30
Corporate
 
Higher than 30

The grouping was a result of an analysis which addressed factors beyond the simple size and volume of activity for each client, such as clients’ affiliation with other companies or groups, the degree of follow-up required, and their credit ratings.

 
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Subsidiaries
 
BCP’s corporate structure consists of a group of local subsidiaries offering specialized financial services, which complement BCP’s commercial banking activities. In addition to its local subsidiaries, BCP has an agency in Miami and a branch in Panama, a subsidiary in Bolivia and an affiliate bank, Atlantic Security Bank, in the Cayman Islands.
 
BCP and its principal subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 are as follows:
 
 
·
Banco de Crédito de Bolivia, or BCB, is BCP’s commercial bank in Bolivia. BCP owns 95.92% of BCB and we hold the remaining interest. Currently, BCB is the fourth largest bank in Bolivia in terms of deposits and loans market share and has a network of 65 offices located throughout Bolivia. BCB owns one of Bolivia’s largest brokerage houses, Credibolsa S.A. Agente de Bolsa, and this subsidiary owns Credifondo SAFI Bolivia, a mutual fund company. BCP targets middle- and small-sized clients and offers a broad range of corporate, personal banking and leasing products. BCB’s results are consolidated in BCP’s financial statements.
 
 
·
Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A. was acquired in October 2009 and is 99.78% owned by BCP. It is engaged in micro finance in Peru.
 
 
·
Credibolsa Sociedad Agente de Bolsa, or Credibolsa, was established in June 1991 and is 100% owned by BCP. It is engaged in portfolio advisory and brokerage activities in the Lima Stock Exchange.
 
 
·
Credifondo Sociedad Administradora de Fondos Mutuos, or Credifondo, is a mutual fund management company that was established in 1994. Credifondo is 100% owned by BCP.
 
 
·
Creditítulos S.A., or Creditítulos was established in 1997 and is 100% owned by BCP. Creditítulos serves as an asset securitization entity.
 
 
·
Inmobiliaria BCP is the real estate subsidiary of BCP. It manages and promotes the sale of real estate that has been foreclosed or received in payment by BCP. Inmobiliaria BCP is 100% owned by BCP.
 
 
·
Solución Financiera de Crédito del Perú S.A. was established in 1979 and is 100% owned by BCP. Its business includes mortgage lending, consumer lending and SME financing. In the company’s shareholders meeting on November 19, 2009, Solución Financiera de Crédito del Perú S.A.’s shareholders decided to change the company from a finance company to a mortgage administrator company and to change the company’s name to Solución Empresa Administradora Hipotecaria S.A. These changes were necessary because, according to Peruvian Law, no person is allowed to be the owner of two financial institutions of the same type. As a result, the company will primarily engage in the administration of mortgage portfolios. These changes were submitted to the SBS for approval and are still under evaluation.
 
 
(ii)     Wholesale Banking Group
 
BCP’s wholesale banking group (Wholesale Banking Group), which competes with local and foreign banks, has traditionally represented the majority of BCP’s loans. BCP’s traditional relationships provide its Wholesale Banking Group with a competitive advantage.

 
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In spite of the international recession, BCPs Wholesale Banking Group maintained its positive trend in loan placements, posting average portfolio levels of US$5,881 million (8.2% higher than in 2008). It also maintained its leadership in the wholesale banking market with a 40% stake in placements. BCP has the largest capital base among Peruvian banks, which provides it with more resources to meet the financing needs of its corporate clients. BCP has established longstanding client relationships with virtually all of the major industrial and commercial groups in Peru. The Wholesale Banking Group provides its customers with short- and medium-term loans in local and foreign currencies, foreign trade-related financing and lease financing.
 
The Wholesale Banking Group is divided into the following areas:
 
 
·
Corporate Banking, which provides loans and other credit services to companies with annual revenues in excess of US$30 million;
 
 
·
Middle Market Banking, which serves mid-sized companies;
 
 
·
International Banking, which manages BCP’s relationship with financial institutions locally and abroad, trade products and international operations services;
 
 
·
Corporate Finance, which provides underwriting and financial advisory services to corporate and middle market clients;
 
 
·
Business Finance, which finances business projects and manages the financial leasing product;
 
 
·
Institutional Banking, which focuses principally on serving profit and non-profit organizations, state-owned companies and other major institutions; and
 
 
·
Business Services, which develops transactional services.
 
Net interest income from the wholesale banking sector reached US$146 million in 2009 (compared to US$141 million in 2008). This growth was a result of the higher interest rates BCP charged during the first half of 2009 due to the increased risks associated with lending to it customers. These higher interest rates helped to offset the reduction in business volume BCP experienced in 2009. Income from financial services accounted for 48% of the total revenue generated by the wholesale banking sector.
 
Corporate Banking
 
Despite a difficult financial environment, BCP continued to meet the needs of its corporate clients, helping them meet their short- and medium-term financing needs. As a result, BCP’s direct credits grew slightly from US$3,928 million to US$4,058 million, and income from financial services increased 19%, from US$47 million to US$56 million. These increases, coupled with a very low default ratio (less than 0.1%), enabled the Corporate Banking Area to meet its financial targets with a net profit US$94 million, an increase of 38% over the US$68 million achieved in 2008.
 
Client Profile: The Corporate Banking Area is focused on serving large-sized companies that have an annual turnover of over US$30 million, audited financial statements and dominant market positions in their particular products or brands. Even if they do not meet the above criteria, BCP may classify other firms in this category if they belong to very large economic groups from industries that are important to the country’s economy.
 
Products: The Corporate Banking Area offers a broad range of products and tailors its product offerings to meet each client’s unique requirements. In general, this area is expected to offer high-value-added products and services, particularly cash management services, at competitive prices.
 
The majority the Corporate Banking Area’s financing is provided to fund sales, international trade and inventories. In general, the Corporate Banking Area grants short-term financing. However, it can provide longer term financing for companies in need of financing capital expenditures and fixed assets, among other purposes. The Area also offers term financing (in all cases backed by real guarantees), financial leasing, factoring, and domestic collections and nationwide fund transfers.

 
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Additionally, Corporate Banking clients can obtain investment banking, advisory and financing services through the Corporate Finance Area, which operates as part of the Wholesale Banking Group and also serves major middle market clients.
 
Guarantees received by this area consist of (i) receivables in the case of sales financing, (ii) warrants or pledges on inventory in the case of inventory financing and (iii) real guarantees, in the case of financing for fixed asset acquisitions and improvements to their infrastructure.
 
There is a limited growth prospect in this business due to high market penetration and competition from capital markets in loans.
 
Middle Market Banking
 
BCP’s middle market banking area provides banking services tailored to medium-sized companies located in a variety of markets. The products offered to middle market clients resemble those offered to corporate banking clients. The three major types of products are:
 
 
·
Revolving credit lines to finance inventories and sales, as well as stand-by letters of credit and international trade financing;
 
 
·
Financing for short-term requirements such as current account credits and temporary account advances (overdrafts); and
 
 
·
Financing for medium and long-term requirements using intermediation resources (term deposits) and various types of financial leasing financing.
 
BCP has identified several opportunities to engage middle market companies, particularly in Peru’s manufacturing, wholesale, retail, fishing and construction industries, where special emphasis has been placed and specific task areas have been created to attend to the needs of these economic groups. BCP has a middle market client portfolio of approximately 7,000 companies, including 1,069 economic groups. Generally, these clients are not listed on the stock exchange but, in some cases, are capable of issuing financial obligations or commercial papers. Their financial information is reliable and audited. These companies are typically family-controlled but professionally managed.
 
During 2009, the middle market banking area revised its customer segmentation policies. The area now includes established (but growing) companies that will eventually become part of our corporate segment, traditional mid-size companies and a group of growing small cap companies.  Inselecting which small companies are best suited for service by our middle market banking area, we consider a mix of different characteristics; such as annual revenues, financial leverage, overall debt and product penetration and complexity. BCP’s middle market customers are distributed among nine regional managers nationwide and have annual revenues that vary from US$1.5 million to US$50 million.
 
Last year, the middle market banking area made significant progress toward implementing its strategic goals by:
 
 
·
Creating hubs to meet the needs of its customers more efficiently
 
BCP now has a customer redistribution hub in Lima, where a new business area was created;
 
 
·
Streamlining its lending process to provide middle market customers with prompt service;

 
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·
Introducing new electronic financial products to make its services more accessible to customers;
 
 
·
Incorporating sophisticated technical tools that assist it in analyzing risk-based pricing and profitability; and
 
 
·
Focusing on risk based financial services revenues, which account for 50% of the total income generated by the middle market banking area
 
According to internal reports, in 2009 net income from the middle market banking area remained at US$63 million, essentially unchanged from 2008. This business segment managed to maintain its income base in a difficult economic environment by actively managing its loan spread, achieving a spread of US$78 million (34% higher than in 2008). The middle market area’s annual average loan portfolio had 32.4% of market share, (US$1,904 million), making BCP the leading bank in its segment.
 
Because of their size, middle market companies in Peru generally do not have access to the local or international capital markets or to credit from foreign banks. In addition, we believe that middle market companies have benefited significantly from the overall economic improvements in Peru over the past few years. Loan quality problems have been addressed through procedures and organizational changes that have focused on improving the loan approval and credit-risk assessment processes.
 
Institutional Banking
 
BCP’s Institutional Banking Area serves for-profit and non-profit organizations, including 600 clients in Lima and 300 clients in provinces. In Lima, a specialized team in wholesale banking serves governmental entities, educational institutions, religious organizations, international bodies, non-governmental organizations, and microfinance institutions. In provinces, a specialized remote wholesale banking team partners with BCP’s retail banking area to serve clients.
 
The annual average deposit amount in BCP’s Institutional Banking Area (Lima and Provinces) reached US$1.6 billion in 2009. The Institutional Banking Area is strategically important because of the opportunities its clients present for generating income from fees and cross-selling opportunities. BCP’s strategy in this area is focused on building customer loyalty by offering customized services at competitive rates and providing outstanding service quality. The institutional banking clients mainly require remote office banking, collections and automated payroll payment services
 
International Banking
 
BCP’s international banking area is focused primarily on providing short-term credit for international trade, which is funded with internal resources or with credit lines from foreign banks and institutions. Medium-term lines of credit funded by international commercial banks and other countries’ governmental institutions are also provided to clients. In addition, this area earns fees by confirming guarantees issued by international banks and other fees as a result of the international payment business. The International Banking Area also promotes international trade activities with its local clients by structuring trade products and services, establishing conferences and assessing the customer in a wide range of trade products.
 
Since September 2008, the International Banking Area has also been supervising the trade Back Office Unit (International Operations). BCP maintains business relations with correspondent banks, development banks, multilateral and export credit agencies in countries around the world. At present, BCP manages credit lines for foreign trade transactions, working capital and medium- and long-term investment projects.
 
The international market volatility during 2009 affected Peruvian trading volume, which fell 30% compared to volume in 2008. The volume of trades managed by BCP was similarly affected and its trade fee income fell 12.1%. Although volumes declined, BCP’s trade market share increased from 36.5% to 41.5% due to a shift in the usage of trade tools from open accounts to guarantees, were BCP is a recognized leader.

 
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According to the Central Bank, in 2009 Peruvian exports decreased 14.6% to US$26.9 billion (compared to US$31.5 billion in 2008). This result was principally due to decreased exports of commodities (gold, silver and iron) and of manufactured goods (textiles, basic metals and chemicals). During the same year (based on BCP’s internal report), BCP’s exports volume decreased 10.1% to US$11.6 billion (compared to US$12.9 billion in 2008), which amounted to 43.1% of total Peruvian exports.
 
Total Peruvian imports were US$21.0 billion in 2009, decreasing -26.1% from US$28.4 billion in 2008, which was primarily due to a lower demand for capital goods (industry, construction and transportation), raw materials for industry, and consumer goods. BCP’s import letters of credit, collections and transfers amounted to US$6.5 billion in 2009, increasing 6.6 % from US$6.1 billion in 2008, which amounted to 31.0% of total Peruvian imports.
 
BCP has a direct presence abroad through its agency in Miami and its branch in Panama. It has access to a wide network of foreign correspondent banks and can offer several internationally competitive products to its customers.
 
BCP has correspondent banking relationships and uncommitted credit lines with more than 80 banks for foreign trade operations, financing of working capital and medium- and long-term investment projects.
 
In line with trade trends, China has become the second largest trade partner for Peru. In light of China’s growing influence, BCP has visited several banks and corporations in China to explore a possible alternative to intermediate trade flows, assess Peruvian exporters and importers and to facilitate Chinese investment in Peru through direct investment and trade development.
 
Corporate Finance
 
BCP’s Corporate Finance Area is a leading advisor to corporate, middle market and institutional clients in Peru. Our Corporate Finance team composed of over 20 executives based in Peru is the largest team of its kind in the marketplace. BCP’s Corporate Finance Area provides a wide range of investment banking and corporate finance advisory services, including structured financings, capital raisings, initial public offerings, mergers and acquisitions and corporate restructurings. In 2009, the Corporate Finance Area focused on investment banking and structured financing for projects in Peruvian economic sectors that remained strong despite the global financial crisis, such as construction, energy and mining. The main projects in 2009 included:
 
 
·
A leasing arrangement for US$162 million for Cemento Andino to expand their cement plant, representing the largest leasing transaction that has been structured and paid by a local bank;
 
 
·
A medium-term leaseback facility to Votorantim Metais Cajamarquilla for US$120 million to expand their zinc refinery capacity to 320 Tons per year.
 
 
·
A leaseback facility to Empresa de Generación Huanza for US$119 million to finance the construction of their 91.2MW hydroelectric plant.
 
 
·
A syndicated leasing to Compañia Electrica el Platanal, or CELEPSA, for US$60 million to complete the construction of their 220MW hydroelectric plant.
 
As the global economy started showing signs of recovery and the Peruvian capital market started to open late in the second half of 2009, BCP´s Corporate Finance Area was in charge of leading the US$200 million bond placement to complete the financing of Peru LNG’s natural gas liquefaction plant and the US$172 million bond placement to finance Kallpa Generación’s combined cycle power plant. In addition, the Corporate Finance Area acted as financial advisor to Credicorp in its acquisition of 99.34% of the stock of Edyficar.

 
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During 2009, the Corporate Finance Area generated income in excess of US$14.0 million from structuring, advisory and issuance fees.
 
Leasing
 
BCP’s financial leasing business offers and manages financial leasing operations. It also carries out medium-term operations, principally for small- and medium-sized companies. BCP is the leader with a market share of 36% of total leasing.
 
The financial leasing business only grew by 13% during 2009 (as compared to a 54% growth in the previous year). BCP’s leasing loan balances show a 31% growth in 2009 as a consequence of tax rule stabilization applicable to leasing operations and the growth of the Peruvian economy.
 
Growth during 2009, like growth in 2008, was driven by business loans in sectors requiring investment in mining, energy generation and manufacturing companies. Loan demand also increased in the telecommunication sector; however, loans to small-sized companies grew at a slower pace as a result of the new risk policies BCP established.
 
Business Services
 
BCP’s business services area is in charge of developing transactional services that handle the exchange of information and money transfers to corporations, midsize companies, institutions and micro-business companies. This area is responsible for both the development and marketing of transactional (or “cash management”) services for BCP’s corporate and its institutional clients. The business services area offers more than 30 products, aimed at strengthening ties with clients, assuring their loyalty and reciprocity in the business carried out with BCP, reducing costs using electronic channels, and increasing fee income.
 
Services managed by the business services area include collections (automated trade bill collection and collection via internet), automated payments (direct credits to personnel and suppliers accounts and money transfers), electronic office banking, electronic lending and cash management through checking accounts with special features.
 
During 2009, transactional services continued to contribute to BCP’s earnings. The monthly average number of current accounts increased by 18% and fee revenues increased by 9.5% compared to those of 2008. This improvement is mainly the result of the dynamism experienced in the small business sector (also referred to as SME). Collection services, such as bills and companies’ collections, generated commissions that increased 6.8% and 21.4%, respectively, over the 2008 collections. This improvement is explained, in part, by BCP’s strategic decision to offer value to its clients through the implementation of a more efficient mechanism of information related to these services. The higher demand by clients for the remote banking service Telecredito also generated 8.6% more transactions than 2008. Likewise, other commissions generated by remittances abroad grew 9.3% from those generated in 2008, and the transaction volume generated by electronic factoring increased 20.6% in 2008. Finally, the electronic service for invoice financing, recently introduced in the market, grew by 40.5% in volume from 2008.
 
 
(iii)        Retail Banking Group
 
According to BCP’s internal reports, by the end of 2009, retail banking-related loans represented 40% of BCP’s total loans, while retail banking-related deposits accounted for 47% of BCP’s total deposits. Retail income from fees constituted 45% of BCP’s total income from fees.

 
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Between 2006 and 2007, the Retail Banking Group’s loan volumes increased by 45%, reaching US$2,840 million. During 2008, loans grew again by 30%, reaching US$3,694 million. Throughout 2009, loan balances grew by US$621 million to US$4,315 million. This growth was a result of strong consumer lending, which includes installment loans and credit cards, home mortgages and small and micro business loans. With respect to deposits, BCP’s retail banking group has also shown constant growth, by growing 29% between 2006 and 2007, US$1,051 million in 2008 and US$690 million during 2009, reaching a total of US$7,818 million by the end of 2009.
 
With the segmentation of its retail client base, BCP is able to focus on cross-selling its products and improving per-client profitability. The Retail Banking Group has undertaken several projects to improve one-on-one marketing techniques and tools for the sale of its products to all market segments. BCP’s management expects the retail banking business to be one of the principal growth areas for BCP’s lending activities.
 
BCP’s retail banking serves individuals and small-sized companies with annual sales levels of up to US$6.6 million. BCP’s objective is to establish profitable long-term relationships with its broad client base, using segmentation strategies that satisfy the specific needs of each client type. BCP’s retail distribution strategy changed at the beginning of 2007, when BCP started using the branch network as the center for all transactional and commercial activities. BCP now has a commercial division, in charge of all direct sales forces and the branches, which in turn are organized on a geographic level. Each branch is responsible for servicing and selling products to three customers groups: exclusive banking, small business banking and consumer banking. In addition, each branch is responsible for coordinating the different channels offered within the branch, such as account managers, customer service representatives and tellers.
 
The Marketing Division is responsible for product, channel and segment management. During 2008, BCP saw an unprecedented investment in infrastructure and human resources to support its “banking the unbanked” strategy. As a result, in 2008 and 2009, BCP experienced an explosive growth in channels, including 1,580 new customer contact locations (59 branches, 247 ATMs and 1,580 correspondent banking offices). Demonstrating its leadership in attracting new customers, BCP now services over three million customers with its network of 334 branch offices, 996 ATMs and 2,801 correspondent banking offices (these figures do not include the customer contact locations under Edyficar’s management, which are counted separately).
 
Exclusive Banking
 
Exclusive banking is BCP’s upscale retail banking area which manages a select number of individual customers. These customers are crucial to BCP because of their high loan and deposit volume and their attractive profitability.
 
The exclusive banking customers receive a differentiated value plan which includes (i) access to innovative products, (ii) dedicated customer services channels such as specialized account managers and/or expert phone banking, (iii) privileged preferential service in the branches at the teller window and (iv) special interest rates on loans. BCP’s exclusive customers, totaling about 160,000, must have a good credit record and at least US$20,000 in outstanding loans within the banking system or a US$40,000 balance in deposits with BCP. Approximately 100,000 of the most profitable exclusive clients are serviced through specialized accounts managers responsible for improving per-client profitability and achieving long-term relationships through personalized service, cross-selling and share of wallet strategies. Account managers are also responsible for new customer acquisition, particularly through mortgage loans. The higher end of this segment also has access to investment advisors who prepare customized investment plans consisting of capital market products and mutual funds. The exclusive banking segment is very profitable, generating 36% of the retail banking group’s income while managing 5% of the total customer base, 45% of retail group’s loan volume and 41% of its deposit volume.

 
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Small Business Banking
 
BCP’s small business segment now accounts for 282,000 clients. Customers are divided into three groups with different business models, services levels, and products access. The first group is top-end small business banking, which serves approximately 7,200 clients with annual sales between US$500,000 and US$6.6 million. The next group of 100,000 small business clients has annual sales up to US$500,000 but has debt, and the third group of approximately 210,000 consists of very small business customers who have only deposit product needs.
 
In addition to products, such as revolving credit lines repaid in installments, BCP also helps the development of the small and micro (SME lending) business segments, which composed of individuals who primarily derive their income from small, family-run businesses, in two ways:  (i) client training programs through seminars and presentations and (ii) formalization programs based upon alliances with government institutions such as Prompyme, the Ministry of Labor and Social Promotion, municipalities and the Peruvian Center for the Promotion of Small Business. BCP’s total loans to small businesses as of December 31, 2009 amounted to US$1,065 million, which represented another year of consecutive growth.
 
According to BCP’s internal reports, the Small Business Banking loan portfolio grew from US$1,037 million in 2007 to US$1,345 million in 2008 and reached US$1,546 million by the end of 2009. In terms of deposits, this group increased deposits from US$1,197 million in 2007 to US$1,562 million in 2008 and US$1,698 million by the conclusion of 2009.
 
Edyficar also serves the microfinance segment, and as of December 31, 2009, it registered 165,345 SME clients with a total loan portfolio equivalent to US$198.8 million (S/. 574.6 million in Nuevos Soles), which represented an increase of 15.1% compared to the level registered at the end of 2008. As of December 31, 2009, Edyficar had a client market share of 9.7%, making it second in terms of market share within the SME segment. Edyficar also had a loan market share of 4.6% in 2009, making it fifth in terms of market share within the SME segment. The aggregate market share of Edyficar and BCP in the SME segment totaled 20.0% at the end of 2009, and combined, they have the highest market share in the SME segment.
 
Consumer Banking
 
Consumer banking is in charge of developing strategies for the retail customers not included in exclusive banking or small business banking. Its customer base is approximately 2.7 million medium to low income individuals. Consumer banking focuses its attention on customers who receive their payroll through BCP (which represents slightly more than 1 million clients). Its strategies vary from basic acquisition of new accounts for wage-earners with special terms regarding fees and interest rates, to more sophisticated, aggressive cross-sell and retention programs that expand benefits to non-banking products (i.e., access to discounted products). BCP has continued excelling in expanding its debit card as a form of payment, maintaining more than half of the market share in withdrawals and payments with debit cards, which is a year-to-year increase of 400,000 cards. BCP concluded 2008 with more than 2.7 million cards.
 
Mortgage Lending
 
As of December 31, 2009, BCP was the largest mortgage lender in Peru with a market share of 35.5% of total mortgage loans in the Peruvian banking system. This was largely the result of BCP’s extensive marketing campaigns and its improvements in the quality of procedures for extending credit and establishing guarantees.
 
BCP expects the mortgage lending business to continue grow because of (i) low levels of penetration in the financial market, (ii) increasing demand for housing, (iii) the availability of funds for the Peruvian government’s MiVivienda low-income housing program and (iv) the current economic outlook for controlled inflation and economic growth in Peru.

 
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BCP had US$1,551 million in outstanding mortgage loans as of December 31, 2009 (as compared to US$1,346 million in 2008, US$1,125 million in 2007 and US$868 million for year-end 2006).
 
All programs of mortgage financing are available to customers with minimum monthly income of US$400. The MiVivienda program, a program supported by government resources, placed a limit of US$60,000 on the value of the house to be purchased. BCP will finance up to 90% of the appraised value of a property where monthly mortgage payments do not exceed 30% of the client’s stable net income. The maximum maturity of the mortgage loans BCP offers is 25 years, in U.S. Dollars, and 25 years, in local currency. Within the mortgage lending business, BCP offers variable, fixed and Libor-based interest rates on home mortgage loans denominated in both U.S. Dollars and Nuevos Soles. However, BCP’s mortgage portfolio is predominantly fixed rate and U.S. Dollar-denominated.
 
In May 2006, the original MiVivienda program was terminated. However, local banks (with government’s approval) launched a similar project, known as MiVivienda2, to which proprietary funds contribute. In addition, in March 2007, BCP created a new program financed by the government called Mi Hogar, which targeted persons with a lower income profile. The conditions of the new program are almost identical to those of the first MiVivienda, except that financing is in local currency.
 
Consumer Lending (Credit Cards and Installment Loans)
 
Consumer lending, credit cards and installment loans have grown significantly as improving economic conditions have led to increased consumer spending. BCP expects the strong demand for these products to continue. In addition to interest income, BCP derives fee income from customer application and maintenance, retailer transactions, and merchant processing, finance and penalty charges on credit cards.
 
Peru’s economic growth has had a huge impact on the consumer credit market, which grew by a total of 24% during 2008 and 16% between 2008 and 2009. The outstanding balance is US$1,326 million, consisting of US$503 million in credit card loans and US$823 million in installment loans. BCP’s market share in consumer lending has consistently increased since 2007, 2008 and 2009 from 17.9% to 19.2% to 20.0%. This growth in consumer lending was achieved while maintaining a ratio of delinquent accounts below 5% (over 30 days).
 
Between 2007 and 2008, installment loans experienced an unprecedented growth of US$214 million in outstanding balances, a 45% increase, and during 2009 installment loans grew another 19%. This result was due, in part, to BCP’s strategic change which was designed to broaden its customer base. Fifty percent of BCP’s new loans came from customers with a monthly gross income of less than US$400.
 
In the credit card business, BCP continued to apply segmented strategies. BCP continues to offer value to its high-end customers through partnerships with the airline LAN and with Primax, a chain of gas stations. These programs, coupled with BCP’s own travel program, enabled it to reach record levels, both in point generation and point usage (exchanges). To catch the attention of the lower income segment, BCP worked on streamlining its risk assessment and card delivery process.
 
In addition, BCP has been continuously improving monitoring and optimizing its scoring models, which includes, among others, behavior, payments and income forecasting. As a result, BCP has achieved a US$58 million yearly increase in outstanding balances during each of 2008 and 2009. According to BCP’s internal records, the number of active credit cards has constantly increased from 325,000 in 2006 to 387,000 in 2007 to 430,000 in 2008 and 446,000 by year end 2009. In addition, annual purchases have increased from US$592 million in 2006 to US$868 million in 2007 to US$1,131 million in 2008 and US$1,203 million in 2009.
 
BCP is also the largest shareholder of VISANET, holding approximately 40% of its total shares. The number of VISANET electronic payment terminals grew to approximately 55,000 in 2009, as compared to 28,000 in 2006.

 
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(iv)        Capital Markets Group
 
In addition to BCP’s wholesale and retail banking operations, BCP operates a capital markets group, which currently is the largest capital markets and brokerage distribution system in Peru. The principal activities of the Capital Markets Group include currency transactions (both for clients and on a proprietary basis) as well as treasury, custody and trust, investment advisory services, and general research activities.
 
BCP’s products are distributed through its subsidiaries and branches. BCP’s close relationship and coordination with its subsidiaries has established BCP as the market leader in the capital markets business.
 
Credibolsa is BCP’s brokerage subsidiary through which BCP offers a wide variety of variable and fixed-income products and services. Credibolsa’s activities include the structuring and placement of primary market issues and the execution and trading of secondary market transactions.
 
Creditítulos is BCP’s asset securitization subsidiary through which BCP offers local securitization structuring to corporate entities.
 
Credifondo is BCP’s fund management subsidiary, which offers investment fund products and services. Fund types offered by Credifondo include short/long term, U.S. Dollar and local currency and fixed/variable income funds.
 
Trading and Brokerage Services
 
In 2009, markets recovered strongly after the international financial crisis. The Lima Stock Exchange General Index (IGBVL) experienced an increase of 100.9%, even though trading volume (measured in U.S. Dollars) decreased 22% to US$4,007 million, as compared to 2008. Including fixed income and REPO operations, total trading volume in the Lima Stock Exchange reached US$5,710 million, representing a 28% decline as compared to 2008.

Credibolsa maintained its leadership position in the Lima Stock Exchange with a 24.87% share of the market in equity and 50.77% in fixed income, compared to 19.8% and 49.6% in 2008, respectively. Credibolsa’s trading volume was generated by domestic customers (both retail and institutional), by foreign institutional clients and by our proprietary trading. Credibolsa’s total trading volume reached US$3,158 million in 2009. Credibolsa was also the number one stock broker for initial offerings, issuing a total of S/. 388 million and US$543 million in fixed income, representing a 46% market share.
 
BCP’s management believes that Credibolsa will continue expanding its business based on its ability to provide appropriate advice to clients while offering various products that meet their requirements. Furthermore, BCP’s wholesale banking marketing represents an important strength that allows it to reach main companies in the local market, while BCP’s branch network helps to expand its business in the retail banking segment.
 
Treasury, Foreign Exchange and Proprietary Trading
 
BCP’s treasury and foreign exchange groups are active participants in money market and foreign exchange trading. These groups manage BCP’s foreign exchange positions and reserves and are also involved in analyzing liquidity and other asset/liability matters. The trading desk plays an important role in short-term money markets in Nuevos Soles and in foreign currencies. It has also been active in the auctions of certificates of deposit by Peru’s central bank as well as in financings through certificates of deposit, interbank transactions and guaranteed negotiable notes, among other instruments.
 
Since 2007, BCP has adhered to the best international cash management practices. BCP created the Assets and Liabilities Management Service (or ALM) which is responsible for managing its balance sheet under the Asset and Liabilities Committee (or ALCO) oversight. ALM is responsible for managing BCP’s balance sheet and for accepting reasonable interest rate and liquidity risks through management of the short- and long-term transfer rates.

 
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BCP’s proprietary trading consists of trading and short-term investments in securities, which includes instruments from various countries. These short-term investments are primarily made to facilitate its treasury management and corporate finance efforts. This has become an increasingly important part of BCP’s business, as BCP seeks returns on excess liquidity pending improved lending conditions. During 2008, the investments were mainly oriented to Nuevo Soles-denominated instruments such as BCRP certificates of deposits and government bonds.
 
Asset Management
 
Credifondo S.A., Sociedad Administradora de Fondos, or Credifondo, provides advice to and operates mutual funds in Peru. It is the largest mutual fund manager in Peru based upon data from the Peruvian securities market authority, the Comisión Nacional Supervisora de Empresas y Valores (CONASEV). As of December 31, 2009, total Peruvian funds in the mutual funds system amounted to US$4.86 billion, increasing 72.3% from US$2.82 billion in 2008.
 
According to CONASEV, as of December 31, 2009, Credifondo managed ten separate funds, with a total of 102,211 participants (38.9% of total participants) compared to 78,497 in 2008. Among the securities in which the different funds specialize are: equities, U.S. Dollar-denominated bonds, Nuevo Sol-denominated bonds and U.S. Dollar-denominated short-term securities. As of December 31, 2009, Credifondo’s total managed funds amounted to US$1,929 million, increasing from US$1,273 million – 60.4% – as of December 31, 2008. Because these funds are subject to certain volatility, there can be no assurance as to their future performance. As a result, we do not guarantee any return on these investments.
 
As of December 31, 2009, the Bolivian fund administrator managed a total of US$139.9 million of third-party funds increasing 27.4% as of December 31, 2008.
 
According to BCP’s internal reports, BCP holds US$22.7 billion in securities for over 61,189 domestic and foreign clients. BCP provides custody services that include the physical keeping of securities and the payment of dividends and interest. In addition, BCP acts as paying agent for securities of which it does not keep custody. BCP is one of the few banks in Peru qualified to serve as a foreign custodian for U.S. mutual funds. Trust services include (i) escrow, (ii) administration and representation services, (iii) supervision of transactions completed for its clients and (iv) transfer settlement and payment services for local securities issues. These services allow BCP to adequately represent its clients’ activities in the local and international securities markets.
 
La Fiduciaria S.A., or Fiduciaria, is an associated entity and the first specialized trust services company in Peru. We hold a 45% interest in Fiduciaria. In its eighth year of existence, Fiduciaria has managed trusts for a majority of the institutions in the national financial system, putting itself at the forefront of fiduciary services in Peru. Fiduciaria’s operations encompass sectors including energy, communications, mining, tourism, fishing, education and construction. Fiduciaria ended 2009 with 185 outstanding operations.
 
 
(v)         Lending Policies and Procedures
 
BCP’s uniform credit policies and approval and review procedures are based upon conservative criteria and are uniformly applied to all of its subsidiaries. These policies are in accordance with the guidelines established by Peruvian financial sector laws and SBS regulations. (See “—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP,” and the guidelines set forth by our board of directors.)
 
BCP’s credit approval process is based primarily on an evaluation of the borrower’s repayment capacity and on commercial and banking references. BCP determines a corporate borrower’s repayment capacity by analyzing the historical and projected financial condition of the company and of the industry in which it operates. Other important factors that BCP analyzes include the company’s current management, banking references, past experiences in similar transactions, and collateral to be provided.

 
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For the evaluation of BCP’s corporate borrowers, credit officers prepare a risk assessment report, which analyzes the client’s ability to repay its obligations, determines the probability of default of the client using an internal risk rating model, and defines the maximum credit exposure that the BCP wants to hold with the company.
 
For BCP’s individual and small business borrowers, it evaluates credits based on the client’s capacity for repayment, a documented set of policies (regarding the client’s financial track record among other issues), and in most cases, credit scores, which assign loan-loss probabilities that relate to expected returns of each market segment. Approximately 80% of BCP’s credit card, consumer, mortgage, and small business loan application decisions are made by automatic systems. The complement is decided by credit officers reporting to a centralized unit.
 
Success in the small business and personal lending areas depends largely on BCP’s ability to obtain reliable credit information about prospective borrowers. BCP, together with several partners, formed a credit research company called Infocorp in November 1995. In addition, the SBS has expanded its credit exposure database service to cover all businesses or individuals with any amount borrowed from a Peruvian financial institution. This database includes information on the loan risk category in which the borrowers are classified: “Normal,” “Potential Problem,” “Deficient,” “Doubtful” and “Loss.”
 
BCP has a strictly enforced policy with respect to the lending authority of its loan officers. It also has procedures to ensure that these limits are adhered to before a loan is disbursed. Under BCP’s credit approval process, the lending authority for middle market, small business, and personal loans is centralized into a specialized credit risk analysis area, whose officers have been granted lending limits. To ensure that loan officers and credit analysis officers are complying with their lending authority, the credit department and BCP’s internal auditors regularly examine credit approvals, in addition to the controls built into the loan approval workflow systems.
 
The following table briefly summarizes BCP’s policy on lending limits for loan officers and credit risk analysis officers. Requests for credit facilities in excess of the limits set forth below are reviewed by BCP’s general manager, executive committee or, if the amount of the proposed facility is sufficiently large, board of directors.
 
In US$ thousands
    
Risk without collateral or with
only personal collateral or
guarantee
    
Risk with preferred
guarantees (1)
 
Board of Directors
 
Regulatory limit
 
Regulatory limit
 
Executive Committee
  US$ 191,076   US$ 191,076  
General Manager
  US$ 35,000   US$ 30,000  
Credit Group Manager
  US$ 7,500   US$ 15,000  
Credit Risk Manager
  US$ 4,000   US$ 8,000  
Credit Risk Chiefs
  US$ 2,000   US$ 3,000  
Retail Credit Risk Manager
  US$ 500   US$ 500  
 

(1)
Preferred guarantees include deposits in cash, stand-by letters, securities and other liquid assets with market price, mortgages, non-real estate property guarantees and assets generated by leasing operations.
 
BCP believes that an important factor in maintaining the quality of its loan portfolio is the selection and training of its loan and risk officers. BCP requires loan officers to have degrees in economics, accounting or business administration from competitive local or foreign universities. In addition, the training program consists of a six-month rotation through all of the business-related areas of BCP and the credit risk analysis area. After the training period is over, trainees are assigned as assistants to loan officers for a period of at least one year before they can be promoted to loan officers. Loan officers also receive additional training throughout their careers at BCP. Laterally-hired officers are generally required to have previously held positions as loan officers.

 
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In general, BCP is a secured lender. As of December 31, 2009, approximately US$6.4 billion of our loan portfolio and contingent credits were secured by collateral, which represents 47.9% of the total loan portfolio based upon our unconsolidated figures, as compared to 41.7% in 2008 and 43.8% in 2007.  Liquid collateral is a small portion of the total collateral. In general, if BCP requires collateral for the extension of credit, it requires collateral valued at between 10% and 50% above the facilities granted. The appraisal of illiquid collateral, in particular real estate assets, machinery and equipment, is performed by independent experts when required for specific reasons.
 
The existence of collateral does not affect the loan classification process according to regulations in effect as of December 1998. Pursuant to Peruvian banking law, secured loans, or the portion thereof covered by collateral, classified in Class “B,” “C,” or “D” risk categories have a lower loan loss provision requirement for Peruvian accounting purposes. If a borrower is classified as substandard or below, then BCP’s entire credit exposure to that borrower is so classified.
 
BCP conducts unannounced internal audits on the financial statements, consistent with local banking regulation of the different jurisdictions in which it operates.
 
 
(vi)        Deposits
 
Deposits are principally managed by BCP’s retail banking group. The main objective of BCP’s Retail Banking Group operations has historically been to develop a diversified and stable deposit base in order to provide a low-cost source of funding. This deposit base has traditionally been one of BCP’s greatest strengths. BCP has historically relied on the more traditional, stable, low cost deposit sources, which it considers to be its core deposits: time, demand deposits, savings and CTS deposits. CTS deposits, or Severance Indemnity Deposits, are funded by companies in the name of their employees. CTS deposits amount to one month’s salary per year and may be withdrawn by the employee only upon termination of employment or upon transfer to another bank, subject to certain exceptions. Exceptions include disposing of 50% of the CTS deposit at any time and disposing of up to 80% at once for home purchase. For the year 2009 and 2010 and as part of the Government program to minimize the impact of the international crisis, individuals may dispose 100% of their CTS deposits.
 
As of December 31, 2009, deposits represented 74.9% of BCP’s total source funding. BCP’s extensive branch network facilitates access to this type of stable and low-cost funding. BCP’s corporate clients are also an important source of funding for BCP.
 
 
(vii)       Support Areas

BCP’s commercial banking operations are supported by its risk area, which evaluates and helps administer credit relationships, establishes credit policies and monitors credit risk. See “—(4) BCP and Subsidiaries—(v) Lending Policies and Procedures.”
 
BCP’s planning and finance area is in charge of planning, accounting and investor relations functions and is also responsible for analyzing the economic, business and competitive environment in order to provide the information necessary to support senior management’s decision-making.
 
In addition to the above, BCP’s administration group is generally responsible for information technology, quality control, institutional and public relations, human resources, the legal department, security, maintenance and supplies.

 
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Information Technology
 
BCP is a technology leader in the Peruvian banking sector. All of BCP’s retail banking group services and a substantial portion of BCP’s corporate banking services are fully computerized. All of BCP’s points of service, including branches, ATMs and POS terminals, are linked to BCP’s data processing center, which permits BCP to monitor and analyze service while allowing most transactions to be executed on a real-time, online basis.
 
BCP considers its technology platform to be one of its main competitive strengths and has continued to invest in this area to maintain its competitive position in the banking sector. During 2009, BCP’s expenses on systems totaled US$120.7 million, of which US$96.4 million were recurring expenses and US$24.3 million were allocated to specific projects. These totals were higher than those of 2008, which were US$97.9 million, US$79.2 million and US$18.7 million, respectively. BCP’s investments totaled US$50.9 million, of which US$14.9 million were for tactical projects, US$22.2 million for core processes, and US$13.8 million for subsistence projects. These amounts were lower than those reported for 2008 (US$60.9 million, US$16.6 million, US$27.5 million and US$16.8 million, respectively).
 
Furthermore, to continue with the objective of increasing lending in the Retail Banking Group, BCP expanded its “Loans Integrated Model”, or MIC, to consumer loans. The Loans Integrated Model, which was started in 2007 for credit cards, provides customers instant reply to credit card applications and approved credit lines. In 2009, the system could be able to mortgage loan screening to give customers point of contact response. Finally in 2010, the system will have a new function, enabling it to buy debt from other financial entities.
 
BCP continued to align its systems to the technological architecture by building and implementing shared services. In 2008, two modules of SAP were implemented—human resources and procurement. Three other important projects were completed: (i) implementation of the collections management system for retail banking products; (ii) migration of the IVR (interactive voice response) system to a new platform, which is more robust, safe and high availability; and (iii) implementation of a new anti-money laundering system to intercept all suspicious banking transactions. During 2009, BCP started an accounting module that will be completed in 2010.
 
As part of the “Excellence in Continuous Operations” Program (ECO Program), BCP completed the construction of a new data center at the La Molina headquarters at the end of 2008. In June 2009, also as a part of the ECO Program, BCP started the construction of a world-class data center in Chorrillos to replace its downtown Lima facility. Operations at the data center in Chorrillos are scheduled to lunch in November 2010. The La Molina and Chorrillos data centers will operate in an “active-active” mode, backing-up each other. In parallel, a third project within the ECO Program called “Out-of-Region Disaster Recovery Data Center” (OOR) started in July 2009 at IBM’s Brazil Global Delivery Center located in Hortolandia, Sao Paulo. The main objective of the OOR project is to provide remote recovery capabilities of the core banking applications and channels of BCP nationwide in case of a major disruptive event that may affect both data centers in Lima.
 
Marketing
 
BCP continually works to protect and strengthen the BCP brand. BCP has a proactive attitude towards competition and is focused on change and innovation. The company promotes its products and services by constantly improving them. In this manner, BCP aims to grow and be a leader in every retail market by offering the highest possible value for its clients and shareholders. In 2009, BCP continued its strategy which was based on two fronts:
 
Generating Value: In terms of generating value, BCP continues to develop strategies to approach different retail customer groups. BCP’s increasing use of Customer Relation Management (CRM) tools across all sectors enables it to proactively reach customers and provide them with personalized offers and terms in a timely manner. In an effort to build long-term relationships, the BCP has heightened its development and training activities. These activities include training programs with small-business owners supported by Universidad del Pacífico, the ExpoNegocios and the Bodegas y Mercados, as well as exhaustive seminars conducted in different cities across the country.

 
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Another key element for BCP to create value is innovation. BCP has launched several innovative products, including new service products for very wealthy customers, new benefits for customers whose wages are paid at their BCP accounts, and the development of the Línea Múltiple de Negocios (Multiple Business Line) that allows its customers to meet their financial needs with a comprehensive, easy-to-use product.  BCP also innovates by transforming the way it operates throughout the organization, achieving internally, leaner and more efficient processes and externally, an enhanced experience for our customers.  During 2009 leaner processes have been accomplished for branch layout and tellers, ATM cash management and mortgage lending.
 
Quality in Service: Quality in service is a permanent goal for BCP. BCP has progressed in this area by implementing a new regulation promulgated under the Consumer Protection Law, which included significant investments toward improving service and keeping customers informed about BCP’s products and services.
 
BCP’s improved processes and supporting tools have enabled it to leverage growing businesses. BCP successfully implemented its new commercial loan disbursement process (promissory notes, loans, advances and issuing bank guarantees nationwide) by using CAPS as a tool. The result was an improvement in BCP’s customer service timing and to reduction in its business consultants’ and assistants’ workload.

Operations
 
Achieving greater operational efficiency is an essential part of BCP’s s growth strategy, and BCP is committed to improving efficiency by streamlining its processes. One of the main initiatives the company advanced in 2009 was “Lean Project”, which aimed at increasing the satisfaction of BCP’s clients by enhancing business-origination processes based on the “Lean” methodology. In 2009, the redesign of the processes occurred in three “waves”:
 
Wave 1 - New branch model
 
The new model seeks to offer better service to BCP’s clients in each branch, and turn the branches into commercial points rather than transactional centers. The most relevant achievements in 2009 included: operating 41 offices under the new model; reducing the waiting time at BCP offices by 48%; increasing the productivity of teller promoters by 20%; and migrating 6% of the transactions handled by tellers to electronic channels. BPC expects that by April 2011, approximately 279 offices out of a total of 334 will operate under the new model.
 
Wave 2 - Post-sales and cash management
 
The purpose of Wave 2 is to improve BCP’s post-sale service and cash logistics management. On the post-sales side, BCP began by conducting an initial process review of its claims attention service. The company then extended its review, examining how it processes requests from current clients (including requests to update of client information or requests for copies of credit card statements). The main achievements in this process review included: reducing the claim response time from 9 days to 2 days; and increasing the company’s productivity in responding to applications by an average of 160%.
 
On the cash management side, BCP sought to improve efficiency in its management of cash logistics. Cash logistics management includes facilitating the movement of cash among in and among BCP’s branch offices, vaults and ATMs. The most relevant achievements in this wave were: reducing the cash transportation expenses (remittance and pick up) by 24% and reducing expensed for cash processing by 57%. Overall, the office logistics expenses were cut 29%.

 
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Wave 3 - Commercial loans, mortgage loans and leasing
 
For Wave 3, BCP undertook an exhaustive review of its commercial lending, mortgage lending and leasing processes. The review tracked loans from the time a client submitted a loan application until the loan was disbursed. They examined the work structure used to handle these loan applications, the quality of customer service, the information provided to the client and the celerity of the overall service, in order to propose systems that might enable BCP to better serve its clients and improve its sales process. The main achievements in Wave 3 were: reducing the renewal cycle time for credit lines extended through BCP’s Corporate Banking Area by 47%, reducing the same renewal cycle time for loans extended through BCP’s Middle Market Banking by 14%, reducing the renewal cycle time for loans in BCP’s Corporate Finance Area by 15%; increasing productivity in the risk area by 53% in Corporate Banking Area, increasing productivity in the risk area by 24% in Middle Market Banking and increasing productivity in the risk area by 24% in BCP’s Corporate Finance Area. BCP also reduced its mortgage loan cycle time from 47 days to 14 business days for 75% of its mortgage loans; and reduced its application-to-disbursement time on leases from more than 21 days to just 15 days for 83% of its leases.

 
 (viii)     Anti-Money Laundering Policies
 
As part of our enterprise wide compliance program, BCP and all the companies under our group have adopted policies and procedures for “know your customer,” “know your market,” “know your correspondent bank” and “know your employee” as an integral part of our anti-money laundering program. These policies and procedures are required to be followed by all employees corporate wide and is under the responsibility of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Corporate Compliance Officer.
 
Credicorp’s corporate compliance officer is responsible for the monitoring and oversight of the program and coordinates with the compliance officers of each of the foreign branches (BCP Panama and BCP Miami), affiliates (PPS, Atlantic Security Bank and Credicorp Securities) and foreign subsidiaries (BCP Bolivia). These institutions must comply with all regulatory laws established in the countries in which they operate, in addition to corporate policies and procedures and GAFI recommendations. Under Peruvian law, BCP must notify the SBS if any of its branches, affiliates or subsidiaries abroad are unable to meet any requirements imposed by the aforementioned entities.
 
The Financial Intelligence Unit is the governmental entity responsible for receiving, analyzing and disseminating suspicious transaction reports filed by obligated entities. It was created under Law 27693 in April of 2002, as amended by Laws 28009 and 28306, and incorporated under Law 29038 in June 2007 as a specialized unit of the SBS. The Financial Intelligence Unit is autonomous, both functionally and technically.
 
One of the main banking regulations, Law 838-2008, requires that all financial institutions supervised by the SBS have an anti-money laundering and terrorist financing compliance program that includes adequate policies, monitoring of client operations, evaluation of red flags, registration of all cash operations and a training program for all staff.
 
 
 (ix)       Employees
 
As of December 31, 2009, BCP had 16,748 employees (including 1,247 employees from Edyficar) compared to 15,969 employees as of December 31, 2008 and 12,667 employees as of December 31, 2007. All employees of banks in Peru are given the option of belonging to an employee union. These employee unions are collectively represented by the Federación de Empleados Bancarios (Federation of Banking Employees or FEB).

 
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(5)         Atlantic Security Holding Corporation
 
ASHC is a holding corporation that engages in private banking, asset management and proprietary investment. ASHC was incorporated in December 1981 in the Cayman Islands and principally serves Peruvian-based customers through Atlantic Security Bank (ASB), a wholly-owned subsidiary.  ASB is a Cayman Islands licensed bank with offices in Panama through which ASHC conducts all commercial business.  ASHC’s balance sheet is virtually identical to ASB’s, with the exception of approximately 14.6 million Credicorp shares directly held by ASHC.
 
As of December 31, 2009, ASHC had total assets of US$1,484.8 million and shareholders’ equity of US$239.8 million (compared with US$1,454.2 million and US$115.7 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008). ASHC reported a net profit of US$54.1 million in 2009, compared with a net loss of US$22.4 million in 2008.  Adjusting for dividend income from Credicorp that is not reflected in consolidated results, ASHC’s net income contribution increased from a negative US$50.4 million in 2008 to US$29.7 in 2009.  All income other than Credicorp dividends was generated by ASB.
 
ASB’s clients have traditionally provided a stable funding source, as many are long-time clients who roll-over deposits on a permanent basis. As of December 31, 2009, ASB had approximately 4,000 clients, 95% of whom are Peruvian.  ASB deposits at year-end 2009 reached US$1,230.4 million, down slightly from US$1,283.6 million as of December 31, 2008.
 
ASB trades on its own account primarily by making medium-term investments in investment grade fixed-income securities and sovereign debt. Non-investment grade fixed-income securities represent a distant second in terms of portfolio allocation, while equity and hedge-fund positions, though present, are even less relevant. As of December 31, 2009, ASB had US$797.2 million at fair value, compared to US$594.9 million in 2008.  In addition to ASB’s portfolio, ASHC also holds an equity investment in Credicorp with a fair value of approximately US$1,124.2 million as of December 31, 2009 (compared to US$730.5 million as of December 31, 2008).
 
Third-party Asset management is an important activity for ASB.  Total assets under management reached US$2,177.0 million as of December 31, 2009, compared to US$1,639.4 million as of December 31, 2008.  These assets cover the range from direct unsolicited securities to ASB managed mutual funds.
 
ASB also maintains a sizable loan portfolio.  Total loans outstanding were US$525.5 million and US$560.1 million for 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Between 85% and 95% of these loans were guaranteed by client’s deposits or investments.  For the year-ended 2009, for example, only US$23.4 million were unsecured loans.  This high level of securitization is reflected in ASB’s low level of non-performing loans, consistently much less than 1% of total loan portfolio.  The overwhelming majority of ASB’s loans are granted to Peruvian nationals and companies, while those that are not are directed exclusively to Latin American borrowers.
 
ASB’s overall investment strategy, general profile of its investment portfolio and specific investment decisions are reviewed on a weekly basis by an investment committee.  Its credit risk by counterparty, including direct and indirect risk, is evaluated on a consolidated basis and covers all activities that generate credit exposure such as interbank placements, commercial loans and securities investment.  Market, Liquidity and Operational risks are monitored by ASB’s Risk Management Unit, which in turn reports to and is supervised by a Corporate Risk Committee, an Asset-Liability Committee and the Board of Directors.
 
 
(6)         Pacífico Peruano Suiza
 
We conduct our insurance activities through Pacifico Peruano Suiza and its subsidiaries, El Pacifico Vida and Pacifico Salud, which together make up Pacifico Grupo Asegurador, providing a broad range of insurance products in the property and casualty, life and health businesses. In 2009, the six most significant business lines collectively generated 82.9% of total premiums written by PPS. These business lines consisted of commercial property damage (including fire, earthquake and allied lines and limited liability risks), automobile, health, life and pension fund underwriting and life annuities. PPS is the second leading Peruvian insurance company, including private health companies, with a market share of 30.9% based on net premiums earned and fees in 2009.

 
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In 2009, we were attributed a consolidated net gain from PPS of US$37.4 million compared to a net loss of US$15.9 million in 2008. PPS’s total premiums increased 3.6% to US$608.8 million during 2009 from US$587.6 million in 2008, and net premiums earned, net of reinsured premiums and of technical reserves (as defined below in “―(ii) Claims and Reserves”), were US$439.5 million in 2009, increasing 8.3% compared to 2008.
 
PPS’s net underwriting results increased from a loss of US$7.7 million in 2008 to a gain of US$79.9 million in 2009. This rise in PPS’s underwriting results is primarily a due to the decrease of net claims paid as a percentage of net premiums written from 84.3% during 2008 to 65.2% during 2009.
 
PPS’s business in property and casualty and private health is highly concentrated, with a client base of over 28,000 companies and over 417,000 individuals in the property and casualty and health insurance programs, including individuals affiliated with group health insurance programs through the companies by which they are employed. As of December 2009, revenues from policies written for PPS’s three largest and 20 largest customers represented 7.5% and 21.6% of total premiums in its property and casualty and health insurance businesses, respectively. PPS’s property insurance lines are sold through agents and brokers, while life insurance is sold by its own sales force. The 10 largest brokers in the property and casualty as well as in the private health segment accounted for approximately 43.5% of total premiums as of December 31, 2009 (compared to 41.2% as of December 31, 2008).
 
El Pacífico Vida (Pacífico Vida), PPS’s life insurance subsidiary, is 38%-owned by ALICO, a subsidiary of AIG. In 2009, Pacífico Vida reached total premiums of US$188 million, a 5.9% increase from total premiums of US$178.2 million in 2008.
 
Pacífico Vida’s market share was 27% in 2009 versus 27.6% in 2008. Its individual life and personal accident businesses increased by 14.5%, mainly due to an increase in sales of the company’s new products, the improved quality of Pacífico Vida’s sales service and the development of its distribution channels, which includes its main channel, the agencies, and its part time channels, such as brokers, BCP (bank-assurance), sponsors, among others. As a result, the market share in individual life market was 35.7% where Pacifico Vida has positioned as the leader.
 
In 2009, total premiums on Group Life, Group Life Ley and SCTR (limited workers compensation) increased by 12%. This increase was largely the product of a broad based national economic recovery, which spurred the formalization of more companies and the development of the mining and construction sectors. Credit Life, Pacífico Vida’s most dynamic product, reached an increase of 14.7% in total premiums over that of 2008 and represented 12% of total direct premiums (compared to 11.2% in 2008). Credit Life’s increase was primarily a result of Pacífico Vida’s business with BCP, which involved credit cards and mortgage loans. Pacífico Vida’s life annuity business decreased 0.3% in total premiums and fell from 19.9% to 17.9% in its market share. This decrease was mainly because we did not take part in the VAC bonds’ market (“valor adquisitivo constante” in Spanish, constant acquisition value).
 
Pacífico Vida’s pension fund underwriting business fell 9.9% for the year. This decline was a result of a government program that prohibited the company from assessing pension fees on employee bonuses payable in July 2009 and December 2009.
 
Pacífico Vida generated financial earnings of US$32.9 million in 2009. Pacífico Salud reported total revenue of US$125.3 million and net gain of US$2.7 million in 2009 mainly due to a decrease in claims. The net loss ratio decreased to 84.6% in 2009 from 90.3% in 2008.

 
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(i)          Underwriting, Clients and Reinsurance
 
Underwriting decisions for substantially all of PPS’s insurance (property and casualty) risks are made through its central underwriting office. PPS’s own risk management staff inspects most medium and medium-to-large commercial risks prior to their underwriting, whereas third party surveyors are employed to inspect smaller risks. Underwriting standards are approved by the Board of Directors on a yearly basis.
 
PPS utilizes reinsurance to limit its maximum aggregate losses and minimize exposure on large risks. Reinsurance is placed with reinsurance companies based on evaluation of the financial capacity of the reinsurer, terms of coverage and price. PPS’s principal reinsurers in 2009 were, among others, Lloyd’s, Allianz Re, Amlin, Catlin, China Re, Endurance, Everest Re, Flagstone Re, Glacier Re, GIC, Hannover Re, Mapfre Re, MS Frontier, Munich Re, Odyssey Re, Omega, Partner Re, Paris Re, QBE Reinsurance Corp., QBE Europe, R+V, Reaseguradora Patria, Scor, Sirius International, Swiss Re, Validus Re, White Mountain y XL Re. Premiums ceded to reinsurers represented 16.7% in 2009. PPS acts as a reinsurer on a very limited basis, providing its excess reinsurance capacity to other Peruvian insurers who are unable to satisfy their reinsurance requirements.
 
As of December 31, 2009, premiums for reinsurance written by PPS totaled US$4.8 million. Although PPS historically has obtained reinsurance for a substantial portion of its earthquake-related risks through excess loss contracts, there can be no assurance that a major catastrophe would not have a material adverse impact on its results of operations or financial condition. See “—(ii) Claims and Reserves.”
 
 
(ii)         Claims and Reserves
 
Net claims paid by PPS as a percentage of net premiums written (i.e., the net loss ratio) reached 65.2% in 2009, down from 84.3% in 2008.
 
The net loss ratio, in the property and casualty segment, which represented 49.1% of PPS’s premiums in 2009 (50.5% in 2008), decreased to 53.3% in 2009 from 87.2% in 2008, mainly due to the improved performance of automobile, fire, medical assistance and allied lines. The net loss ratio from the automobile line, which represented 24% of property and casualty premiums in 2009 (22% in 2008) decreased from 80.8% in 2008 to 52.3% in 2009. The net loss ratio from the fire and allied lines, which represented 19.8% of property and casualty premiums in 2009 (20.1% in 2008) decreased from 105.1% in 2008 to 18.7% in 2009. The net loss ratio of the medical assistance line, which was 19.5% of property and casualty premiums in 2009 (16.4% in 2008) decreased from 107.5% in 2008 to 73.7% in 2009.
 
The net loss ratio in the life insurance lines decreased from 84% in 2008 to 77% in 2009, due to the low performance of disability and survivor (pension fund) insurance and Group Life claims.
 
The net loss ratio in the health insurance lines decreased from 90.3% in 2008 to 84.6% in 2009 and represented 20.6% of PPS’s premiums in 2009 (19.8% in 2008).
 
PPS is required to establish (i) claims reserves in respect of pending claims in its property-casualty business, (ii) reserves for future benefit obligations under its in-force life and accident insurance policies, and (iii) unearned premium reserves in respect of that portion of premiums written that is allocable to the unexpired portion of the related policy periods (collectively, “Technical Reserves”). PPS establishes claims reserves with respect to claims when reported, as well as for incurred but not reported (IBNR) claims. Such reserves are reflected as liabilities in PPS’s financial statements.
 
PPS records as liabilities in its financial statements actuarially determined reserves calculated to meet its obligations under its life and accident policies and its pension fund underwriting business. These reserves are determined using mortality tables, morbidity assumptions, interest rates and methods of calculation in accordance with international practices.

 
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Pursuant to SBS regulations, PPS establishes pre-event reserves for catastrophic risks with respect to earthquake coverage. See “—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(v) PPS—Reserve Requirements.” In accordance with IFRS principles, the pre-event reserves and income charges for catastrophic reserves are not considered in Credicorp’s consolidated financial statements.
 
There can be no assurance that ultimate claims will not exceed PPS’s reserves.
 
 
(iii)       Investment Portfolio
 
As of December 31, 2009, the book value of PPS’s portfolio (which includes Pacífico Seguros, Pacifico Vida and Pacifico Salud) was US$1,057.2 million, which included US$77.4 million in equity securities and US$979.7 million in bonds. The company’s real estate investments’ gross book value reached US$33.8 million.
 
Pacifico Seguros had a book value of US$178.2 million in 2009 and mostly included investments of equity and short-term debt instruments. Pacifico Vida’s book value was close to US$865.7 million and mainly consisted of long-term debt instruments. Pacifico Salud, on the other hand, had a small portfolio with a book value of US$13.3 million and was mainly invested in short-term debt instruments.
 
As part of its improvement process, PPS has been adjusting its investment policy in order to apply the best international risk management practices and tools. PPS also incorporated the recommendations of Solvencia II and Basel II, with a view to developing a better match of terms and currencies with the company’s liabilities, especially in connection with obligations vis-à-vis PPS’s insured customers.
 
PPS reported financial income in 2009 of US$75.7 million, as compared to US$70.4 million in 2008. This outcome is explained by the growth of PPS’s life and property and casualty businesses.
 
PPS’s 2009 financial income grew to US$3.5 million, an increase of 18.3% compared to 2008 and an increase of 81% compared to the company’s 2009 forecast. The better performance was mainly due to the capital gains that PPS obtained in the equity market, its use of a barbell strategy in the fixed income portfolio (long-short position in bonds) and the company’s increased income from rent fees.
 
The equity profits that PPS earned during 2009 were higher than those earned in previous years because of a strong recovery in international stock markets. The Peruvian stock market rallied 105% during 2009, as commodities prices recovered (due to higher demand from emerging markets) and the construction and financial sectors improved as demand for housing rose. PPS’s portfolio strategy, supported by the recovery of the stock market, generated capital gains of US$6.8 million and a return on equity of 77%.
 
Despite the strong decline in world interest rates, the company was able to generate US$ 11.9 million in fixed income profits, 29% higher than forecast and only 4.5% below PPS’s 2008 earnings. Revenue in this portfolio was higher than forecast because PPS applied a “barbell strategy” to the portfolio at the end of 2008 and the beginning of 2009. The barbell strategy generated a higher return and provided PPS with enough liquidity to cover its obligations.  Additional income also came from PPS’s real estate investments as a result of higher rental fees. Overall, earnings increased by 14.8% compared to 2008.
 
PPS’s main strategy is to have an appropriate match of currency and term for its assets and liabilities. In this sense, since a significant portion of its premiums is denominated, and much of its operations are conducted, in U.S. Dollars. Most of the company’s assets are also invested in this currency. In 2009, 79.4% of the gross premiums received by PPS were denominated in U.S. Dollars (86.4% in 2008).

 
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PPS’s investments are made primarily to meet its solvency equity ratio and to provide reserves for claims. PPS manages its investments under two distinct portfolios. The first portfolio is designed to match the liabilities of the company’s property, automobile and health lines, and the second portfolio is designed to match the liabilities of the company’s life and annuities lines. Each portfolio is managed under the authority of its own committee, which reviews portfolio strategy on a monthly basis. PPS invests in foreign markets, emphasizing investments in U.S. and European sovereign debt. PPS has adopted strict policies related to investment decisions. PPS’s investment strategies and policies are reviewed and approved by PPS Board of Directors. However, senior management also has investment authority and decision making authority with respect to investment strategies.
 
 
(7)         Grupo Crédito/Prima AFP
 
Continuing to pursue its strategy of fast growth and positioning in the market, on August 24, 2006, Prima AFP reached an agreement with Grupo Santander Perú S.A. for the acquisition of 99.97% of Unión Vida AFP. Prima AFP’s acquisition was completed for a total of US$141 million, with the final purchase price being determined by arbitration proceedings between the parties. As a result, we received a reimbursement in an approximate amount of US$4.5 million. Of the US$141 million purchase price, US$112 million came from a capital increase and US$29 million came from a BCP loan. Prima AFP subsequently engaged in a tender offer directed at minority shareholders.
 
In 2009, the pension fund market was stable with less competition for transfers and increased focus on new recruitments. Prima AFP maintained its leading market position due to a strong value proposal aimed at providing quality information and service to its members.
 
Strong productivity by Prima AFP’s sales management helped Prima AFP preserve a high quality portfolio and obtain growth of its monthly insurable remuneration (or RAM), which is the basis of its revenues. The sales management’s strong productivity also contributed to Prima AFP maintaining a robust market share. With regard to contributions collection, Prima AFP maintained the largest market share (31.9% as of December 2009).
 
In the commercial field, Prima AFP focused on recruiting new affiliates, reducing transfer volumes and maintaining its affiliate portfolio.  Pursuant to in-house estimates based on revenues and taking into account the 1.75% administration fee, Prima AFP’s basis remuneration for revenues increased in 2009. This increase allowed Prima AFP once again to garner the highest share of the market (31.8%).
 
With respect to investments, during 2009 the financial markets began a slow recovery process from the losses sustained after the international financial crisis in 2008. As of December 2009, Prima AFP’s funds under management reached US$6.6 billion, a 30.6% market share.  Given that pension funds are long-term investments, it is best to observe their returns over a long period. Over the last 36 months, Prima AFP’s returns were 21.70%, 31.30% and 35.66% for funds 1, 2 and 3 respectively. In 2009, Prima AFP registered total revenues for US$78.8 million and profits of US$20.8 million (IFRS results) through growth of its revenue base and a gradual reduction in operative expenses. The revenues obtained in 2009, unlike those reported in 2008, considered 13 rather than 14 contribution periods. This is due to the fact that the government decided, as part of its anti-crisis plan, to exempt affiliates from deductions on additional salaries that, according to Peruvian law, must be paid in July and December.
 
Income from administration fees reached US$78.8 million, 11.4% higher than 2008. This increase was made possible by a strong contributing client portfolio, which remained stable throughout 2009, and by Prima AFP’s efforts to recruit new affiliates. Prima AFP’s personnel expenses reached US$21.3 million, a 17.5% decrease from 2008. This outcome was a result of lower commercial personnel charges stemming from steps taken at the beginning of the year to reduce the sales force.

 
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(8)         Competition
 
(i)          Banking
 
The Peruvian banking sector is currently composed of 15 commercial banking institutions. As of December 31, 2009, BCP ranked first among all Peruvian banks in terms of assets, deposits and loans with a market share of 36.6% of assets, 34.2% of deposits and 33.4% of loans.
 
Major Peruvian Banks as of December 31, 2009
 
Assets
 
Deposits
 
Loans
 
BCP
  36.6%   34.2%   33.4%  
BBVA Banco Continental
  20.8%   22.2%   23.4%  
Scotiabank Perú
  15.9%   16.2%   15.2%  
Interbank
  11.2%   11.9%   11.4%  
Banco Interamericano de Finanzas
  2.8%   3.4%   3.4%  


Source: SBS
 
We believe that the Peruvian banking industry will continue to be a competitive environment within a generally comfortable liquidity situation. This increased competition may in the future affect our loan growth and reduce the average interest rates that we may charge our customers, as well as reduce our fee income.
 
Since 1999, excess liquidity at major Peruvian banks has put pressure on margins. We do not intend to pursue corporate lending opportunities that are unprofitable solely in order to maintain market share. We expect BCP’s corporate banking to grow at levels similar to GDP growth. We will seek to maintain our close relationships with corporate customers, focusing on providing prompt responses to their requirements and setting competitive prices. To this end, we are currently updating our information systems to improve customer service and to allow management to obtain information on customer and business profitability more efficiently. We also intend to expand the range of BCP’s investment banking and cash management products.
 
In its core corporate lending and trade finance businesses, ASHC principally competes with larger international institutions. ASHC attributes its ability to compete effectively with larger lending institutions to its (i) aggressive marketing efforts, (ii) ability as a smaller, more flexible institution to make decisions quickly and respond rapidly to customer needs, (iii) association with BCP and (iv) superior knowledge of the region, particularly the Peruvian market.
 
 
(ii)        Capital Markets
 
In BCP’s wholesale banking group, its corporate banking area has experienced increased competition and pressure on margins over the last few years. This is primarily the result of new entrants into the market, including foreign and privatized commercial banks, as well as local and foreign investment banks and non-bank credit providers, such as pension fund administrators (or AFPs) and mutual fund companies.
 
In addition, Peruvian companies have gained access to new sources of capital through the local and international capital markets. In recent years, the AFPs and mutual funds-managed assets have increased at rates over those experienced by the banking system. The private pension fund assets reached US$23.9 billion as of December 31, 2009, increasing by 51.0% since December 31, 2008 (when funds totaled US$15.9 billion), due to the effect of the international financial crisis on the Peruvian stock market and pension fund system. Total mutual funds reached US$4.9 billion in 2009, a 72.5% increase from US$2.8 billion in 2008.

 
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(iii)       Other Financial Institutions
 
Other institutions in the Peruvian financial system tend to specialize in a given market sector. These institutions include finance companies, municipal and rural savings and credit associations, municipal public credit associations and savings and credit cooperatives. They mainly issue retail loans to small and micro-businesses and consumer and mortgage loans to individuals. These markets have shown substantial increases in recent years. BCP is facing strong competition from these credit providers, primarily with respect to (i) micro-business loans, where such providers lent US$2.4 billion as of December 31, 2009 (50.1% higher than the US$1.6 billion lent in 2008), representing 54.7% of the total in the financial system (compared to 47.2% in 2008); and (ii) consumer loans, where such providers lent US$1.1 billion in 2009 (83.6% higher than US$623.9 million in 2008), representing 15.2% of the total in the financial system (compared to 10.6% in 2008). As part of BCP’s strategy to capture the future growth of these segments in 2009, BCP acquired Edyficar, which was rated sixth in terms of loan share and whose mono-line model proved to be successful in the micro finance business.
 
BCP also faces strong competition in its credit card operations from credit cards issued by retail stores.
 
 
(iv)        Insurance
 
Peruvian insurance companies compete principally on the basis of price, as well as on the basis of name recognition, customer service and product features. PPS believes that its competitive pricing, solid image, and quality of customer service are significant aspects of its overall competitiveness. While increased foreign entry into the Peruvian insurance market may put additional pressure on premium rates, particularly for commercial coverage, PPS believes that in the long-term foreign competition will increase the quality and strength of the industry. PPS believes that its size and its extensive experience in the Peruvian insurance market provide it with a competitive advantage over foreign competitors.
 
However, competition in the Peruvian insurance industry has increased substantially since the industry was deregulated in 1991, with particularly strong competition in the area of large commercial policies, for which rates and coverage typically are negotiated individually. The loss by PPS to competitors of even a small number of major customers or brokers could have a material impact on PPS’s premium levels and market share.
 
 
(9)         Peruvian Government and Economy
 
While we are incorporated in Bermuda, substantially all of BCP’s and PPS’s operations and customers are located in Peru. Although ASHC is based outside of Peru, a substantial number of its customers are also located in Peru. Accordingly, our results of operations and financial condition could be affected by changes in economic or other policies of the Peruvian government, which has exercised and continues to exercise a substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector. Also, our results of operations and financial condition may be affected by other political or economic developments in Peru, such as a devaluation of the Nuevo Sol relative to the U.S. Dollar or the imposition of exchange controls by the Peruvian government. See “Item 10. Additional Information—(D) Exchange Controls.”  Our results of operations and financial condition are dependent on the level of economic activity in Peru.
 
 
(i)          Peruvian Government
 
During the past several decades, Peru has had a history of political instability that has included military coups d’état and different governmental regimes, which in the past have frequently intervened in the nation’s economy and social structure. See “Item 3. Key Information—(D) Risk Factors.” In 1987, the administration of President Alan García attempted to nationalize the banking system. Facing an attempt by the state to control BCP, the majority shareholders of BCP at that time sold a controlling interest in BCP to its employees, which prevented the government from gaining control of BCP. See “—(C) Organizational Structure.”
 
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In the past, Peru experienced significant levels of terrorist activity, which escalated in the late 1980s and early 1990s. See “Item 3. Key Information—(D) Risk Factors.” Upon being elected to office in 1990, President Alberto Fujimori’s government made substantial progress in suppressing Shining Path and MRTA terrorist activity, including the arrest of the leader and second level of leadership in each terrorist group, as well as approximately 2,000 others.
 
Between 1990 and 2000, President Fujimori implemented a broad-based reform of Peru’s political system, economy and social conditions. See “Item 3. Key Information—(D) Risk Factors.” President Fujimori resigned in 2000 in favor of a transitory government due to an outbreak of corruption scandals. President Toledo then assumed the presidency in 2001 after two years of political turmoil, facing high unemployment and underemployment, an economic recession and social need. In 2006, current president Alan García was elected for a five year-term.
 
Despite the economic strides achieved since 1990, poverty remains a persistent problem in Peru, with almost 40% of the population living below the poverty line, which the World Bank defines as monthly income of less than US$60 per capita, adjusted to reflect differences in purchasing power. A significant number of Peruvians live on an income of less than US$30 per capita per month.
 
Until the global crisis, Peru had experienced continuous economic growth since the second half of 2001. President Toledo retained, for the most part, the economic policies of the previous government, focusing on achieving sustained economic growth by: increasing exports, reducing unemployment, reforming the tax system (primarily by increasing the tax base and improving tax collection), fostering private investment by promoting concessions, maintaining low inflation and the floating exchange rate, improving oversight, transparency guidelines and requirements in regulated sectors of the economy, improving the efficiency of the public sector, and maintaining open trade policies.
 
President Toledo transferred the presidency to Alan García Pérez on July 28, 2006, following Mr. García’s victory in the run-off of the presidential elections held on June 4, 2006. Even though Mr. García´s government has mostly retained the economic policies of the previous government, 2009 showed a severe slowdown, due to the impact of the global crisis, which translated to a decrease in the GDP growth rate to 0.9% from 10.0% in the previous year.
 
 
 
(ii)
Peruvian Economy
 
At the beginning of the 1990s, President Fujimori liberalized price and wage controls in the private sector, eliminated all restrictions on capital flows, instituted emergency taxes to reduce the fiscal deficit and liberalized interest rates. Furthermore, his government established an agenda to institute a wide-ranging privatization plan and re-establish relations with the international financial community. President Toledo, and now President García, continued these market-oriented policies but, facing some populist initiatives from Congress and social pressures from unions and regional movements, they have passed some interventionist measures.
 
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Peruvian economy was very volatile. Since 1999, the Peruvian economy has grown every year. Between 2001 and 2008, each year Peru’s economic growth was higher than in the previous year, with a 5.9% annual average. For 2009, the global crisis adversely influenced growth, but within a global comparison, Peru was among the countries with the highest GDP-growth rates: 0.9% in a year when global production decreased 1.1%.
 
In 2009, despite the impressive growth of public investment (+25.9% after 42.8% in 2008), the main driver of growth came from foreign markets, since domestic demand decreased as a consequence of a severe drop in inventories. However, growth dynamics in the foreign sector was driven not by a growth in exports, but due to an almost 20% decrease in imports. In 2010, an additional increase in public investment is expected, as the government’s countercyclical fiscal policy winds down gradually, and regional and local elections approach. Peru will also have a presidential election in 2011, making it less likely that public investment will decline in 2010. However, total economic growth may decline given the status of the world economy and the level of eternal demand for Peruvian products.
 
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The decision by the United States in August 2002 to renew and expand tax benefits through the ATPDEA for certain Latin American export products benefited the manufacturing sector because of its inclusion of Peruvian textiles. In May 2004, negotiations over a free trade agreement with the United States, Colombia and Ecuador began. During 2007, the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States was signed and the trade deal was put into effect on February 1, 2009, concluding a long process of trade negotiations and goodwill. The FTA made permanent the special access to the U.S. market enjoyed under the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act. The current trade between these countries is about US$11 billion annually (18.5% of total trade). The FTA is expected to encourage higher export growth and diversification, as well as accelerate reforms that will further enhance the investment climate in Peru, which is already benefiting from foreign direct investment at historic highs. During the 2008 APEC Summit, progress was made toward reaching a trade agreement with China. According to the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, the other Asian countries with which Peru is negotiating free trade agreements are Japan and South Korea, whose negotiations may be closed by mid 2010.
 
It has taken almost two decades of continued implementation of sound economic policies and a strong political commitment to generate a noticeable improvement in Peru’s economic condition. Peru’s strong macroeconomic performance was underpinned by wide-ranging structural reforms to improve the functioning of markets, foster private sector participation, and modernize the role of the state. In the early 1990s, Peru was one of the first emerging countries to undertake a simultaneous trade and capital account liberalization, accompanied by a flexible exchange rate regime and a deep reform of the financial system. Among several important transformations aimed at enhancing external competitiveness and investor confidence, Peru modernized the civil service and reformed the labor market. Peru’s authorities remain committed to prudent financial policies to preserve the macroeconomic stability and a further deepening of structural reforms to sustain growth and entrench poverty reduction.
 
Peru’s trade surplus in 2009 was US$5.9 billion which was well below its 2006 record (US$9 billion), but it showed signs of a recovery from the US$3.1 billion balance recorded in 2008. In light of the global financial crisis, Peru’s trade surplus was based not on a rise in exports, but on a drop in exports. Exports for 2009 decreased 14.7%, but imports dropped 26.1%. The decline in exports has the most severe effect on non-traditional exports, despite the sharp decline in commodity prices. On imports, the most severe impact was on intermediate goods, specially oil and derivatives, following the contraction in the price of crude.
 
Peru has had a history of high and persistent current account deficits. In 2006, however, Peru had a record surplus of US$2.9 billion, which is equivalent to 3.1% of its GDP. This amount decreased in 2007, with a surplus of US$1.4 billion (1.3% of GDP) and became a deficit again in 2008 (US$4.7 billion, or 3.7% of GDP), turning back to a small surplus in 2009 following the decrease in imports (due to a lower domestic demand) and in investment income (due to lower prices of exported commodities and profits for non-resident companies).
 
Peru’s financial account had a surplus of US$0.7 billion in 2006, due mainly to repayment of external debt made by the public sector. This account grew substantively in 2007 and reached US$8.3 billion due mainly to higher foreign direct investment and long-term loans. The decrease in 2008 was concentrated in the last quarter due mainly to the behavior of foreign direct investment. The flow of foreign direct investment, or FDI, into Peru was US$3.5 billion in 2006 and US$5.3 billion in 2007. Despite the US$4.0 billion in 2008 FDI, the result was not necessarily bad news as during the last quarter of 2008, Peruvian companies increased their participation in other Latin American companies, which resulted in a US$1 billion net outflow. In 2009, the financial account was about a fifth of previous years (US$1.7 billion), but it was enough to reverse the current account deficit. Lower inflows were consequence of outflows in the first half of the year given global uncertainty, but they recovered in the third and specially fourth quarter when investors adjusted their risk appetite and reassessed risks in emerging countries, which demonstrated to have solid foundations during the crisis.
 
The inflation rate in Peru, as measured by the Lima consumer price index, has fallen from 7,650.0% in 1990 to 1.1% in 2006. However, despite the Peruvian Central Bank’s 2% inflation goal, with a +/-1% range, inflation was 3.9% in 2007, 6.7% in 2008, due to higher international commodity prices (with Peru being a net importer of fuel and food), and 0.3% in 2009. This is, the Central Bank has breached the inflation bands for three-years-in-a-row (last year on the downside), but it was a consequence of external shocks. When considering core inflation, it was within the band already in 2009.
 
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The average bank market exchange rate for Nuevos Soles in Peru was S/.2.89 per US$1.00 on December 31, 2009, an 8.0% appreciation considering end-of-year levels, but 11.1% when considering maxima levels reached in February. The Nuevo Sol was getting weaker during the first months of 2009 because of a “flight to quality” process, which favored positions in dollars. This generated an outflow of dollars in emerging markets, including Peru, which was partially countered by the Central Bank selling dollars in the market. Therefore, in 1Q09 Central Bank sold US$1.1 billion, but the gradual recovery of the Peruvian economy, in conjunction with lower risk aversion globally, made possible a slight positive position at the end of the year (US$108 MM).
 
The sound policy framework put in place in recent years and the build up of international reserves have contributed to significantly reduce Peru’s economic vulnerabilities and poverty (even though poverty still affects almost 40% of the population) and enhance its business environment. Peru’s strong fiscal surpluses in recent years, the recent moderate deficit due to countercyclical policies notwithstanding, have also supported a significant reduction in public debt and improved maturity structure. In the current uncertain global outlook, these are important fiscal buffers. A sound monetary policy, well-established in a framework that targets inflation, has also been instrumental in helping to maintain macroeconomic stability and reduce dollarization. Structural reforms have reduced Peru’s fiscal and financial vulnerabilities. Free trade agreements and the search of new markets to open new trade destinations, lower informality, and improvement in the business climate have helped improve Peru’s long-term growth prospects, which are reflected in a higher investment and a higher potential growth.
 
These achievements have placed Peru in a strong position to face any future deterioration in external conditions, should that be the case. Building on Peru’s strong fundamentals, including a resilient financial system, several measures have been appropriately implemented by the authorities that will help to limit spillovers, preserve adequate liquidity conditions in the domestic markets, and bolster domestic confidence. The Peruvian financial system has proven to be strong, despite a moderate impact of the crisis. Credit, which averages a 31.5% growth in 2007 and 2008, lost dynamism, closing 2009 with only a 9.0% growth, albeit amongst the highest in the region.
 
Peruvian authorities have been implementing reforms to further strengthen its financial system. Large official reserves—currently over US$30 billion, equivalent to 13 months of imports—and strong financial soundness indicators, along with the banks’ limited financial reliance on external funding, have helped preserve the system’s stability. Peruvian authorities have recently introduced prudential measures, including more restrictive rules for consumer credit and new dynamic provisioning made effective last December, and strengthened banks’ minimum capital requirements as Basel II is gradually implemented.
 
On the fiscal side, Peruvian authorities have announced several measures to shield its economy from the global crisis and enhance confidence. These measures include maintaining a program of public investment as well as maintaining support for construction, micro and small enterprises, exporters, and social programs. To further boost confidence, the authorities have also lined up access to contingent credit lines from official creditors. The total amount of these programs is over US$3 billion, which is financed with the public savings of previous years. The issue is currently not whether the government has enough resources to implement its countercyclical policy, but rather the pace at which it is implementing such policy in the context where central government decisions have lost importance and resources have been increasingly transferred to local and regional governments.
 
As a result, the near term domestic economic outlook still remains favorable, although if external risks materialize, their impact on the Peruvian economy could be strong. The pace of economic growth is expected to be around 5.0% in 2010, reflecting a moderate global recovery, and a more vigorous domestic demand. With the global demand still contained, inflation should remain around the 2% (+/- 1%) target range. A more severe and prolonged global slowdown, including a new global recession, in a framework of an electoral calendar due to Municipal and Presidential elections in 2010 and 2011, respectively, constitute downside risks to the growth outlook. Peru’s medium-term prospects are favorable and require preserving prudent macroeconomic policies and dealing with long-standing structural challenges.
 
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(10) 
The Peruvian Financial System
 
As our activities are conducted primarily through banking and insurance subsidiaries operating in Peru, a summary of the Peruvian financial system is set forth below.
 
 
 
(i)
General
 
On December 31, 2009, the Peruvian financial system consisted of the following principal participants:  the Central Bank, the SBS, 15 banking institutions (not including Banco de la Nación, a Peruvian state-owned bank), six finance companies, and four leasing companies. In addition, Peru has various mutual mortgage associations, municipal and rural savings and credit associations, municipal public credit associations and savings and credit cooperatives, which totaled 34 entities as of December 31, 2009.
 
The present text of Law 26702 was passed in December 1996. Law 26702 regulates Peruvian financial and insurance companies. In general, it provides for tighter loan loss reserve standards, brings asset risk weighting in line with Basel Committee on Banking Regulations and Supervisory Practices of International Settlements (or the Basel Accord) guidelines, broadens supervision of financial institutions by the SBS to include holding companies, and includes specific treatment of a series of recently developed products in the capital markets and derivatives areas. The primary law governing the Peruvian financial system before the enactment of Law 26702 was Legislative Decree 637, passed in 1991 and amended by Legislative Decree 770, which substantially reformed the Peruvian financial system and modified regulations initially issued in 1930.
 
 
 
(ii)
Central Bank
 
The Central Reserve Bank (or the Central Bank) was established in 1922. Pursuant to the Peruvian Constitution, its primary role is to ensure the stability of the Peruvian monetary system. The Central Bank regulates Peru’s money supply, administers international reserves, issues currency, determines Peru’s balance of payments and other monetary accounts, and furnishes information regarding the country’s financial situation. It also represents the government of Peru before the IMF and the Latin American Reserve Fund (a financial institution whose purpose is to provide balance of payments assistance to its member countries by granting credits or guaranteeing loans to third parties).
 
The highest decision-making authority within the Central Bank is its seven-member board of directors. Each director serves a five-year term. Of the seven directors, four are selected by the executive branch and three are selected by the Congress. The Chairman of the Central Bank is one of the executive branch nominees but must be approved by Peru’s Congress.
 
The Central Bank’s board of directors develops and oversees monetary policy, establishes reserve requirements for entities within the financial system, and approves guidelines for the management of international reserves. All entities within the financial system are required to comply with the decisions of the Central Bank.
 
 
 
(iii)
SBS
 
The SBS, whose authority and activities are discussed in “—(11)  Supervision and Regulation,” is the regulatory authority in charge of implementing and enforcing Law 26702 and, more generally, supervising and regulating all financial, insurance and pension fund institutions in Peru.
 
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In June 2008, Law 1028 and 1052 were approved modifying Law 26702 with the following objectives:  (i) to strengthen and to increase competitiveness, (ii) to implement Basel II and (iii) to adapt the current regulatory framework to the Agreement of Commercial Promotion, APC, signed between Peru and the United States.
 
The main amendments defined in Law 1028 were aimed to promote the development of Peruvian capital market by extending the range of financial services that could be offered by microfinance institutions (i.e., non-banks) without requiring SBS permission.
 
Law 1028 also modified the framework in which the Peruvian financial system is to be harmonized with the new international standards established by the Basel II Accord (which aims to minimize the issues regarding regulatory arbitrage). Starting in July 2009, Peruvian financial institutions will apply the standardized method to calculate their capital requirement related to credit, market and operational risk. Also, from July 2009, the SBS will start receiving applications to use Internal Models Methods for any of these three risks. Meanwhile, if an institution requires lower capital using its internal models than by using the current approach, it will have to maintain between 80% and 95% of the higher amount during the first years.
 
Law 1052 aims to include and synchronize Law 26702 and the APC’s framework, particularly regarding insurance services. The amendments allow offering cross-border services and have simplified the process for international institutions to enter into the Peruvian market by establishing subsidiaries.
 
 
 
(iv)
Financial System Institutions
 
Under Peruvian law, financial system institutions are classified as banks, financing companies, other non-banking institutions, specialized companies and investment banks. BCP is classified as a bank.
 
Banks
 
A bank is defined by Law 26702 as an enterprise whose principal business consists of (i) receiving money from the public, whether by deposits or by any other form of contract, and (ii) using such money (together with the bank’s own capital and funds obtained from other sources) to grant loans or discount documents, or in operations that are subject to market risks.
 
Banks are permitted to carry out various types of financial operations, including the following: (i) receiving demand deposits, time deposits, savings deposits and deposits in trust; (ii) granting direct loans; (iii) discounting or advancing funds against bills of exchange, promissory notes and other credit instruments; (iv) granting mortgage loans and accepting bills of exchange in connection with the mortgage loans; (v) granting conditional and unconditional guaranties; (vi) issuing, confirming, receiving and discounting letters of credit; (vii) acquiring and discounting certificates of deposit, warehouse receipts, bills of exchange and invoices of commercial transactions; (viii) performing credit operations with local and foreign banks, as well as making deposits in those institutions; (ix) issuing and placing local currency and foreign currency bonds, as well as promissory notes and negotiable certificates of deposits; (x) issuing certificates in foreign currency and entering into foreign exchange transactions; (xi) purchasing banks and non-Peruvian institutions which conduct financial intermediation or securities exchange transactions in order to maintain an international presence; (xii) purchasing, holding and selling gold and silver as well as stocks and bonds listed on one of the Peruvian stock exchanges and issued by companies incorporated in Peru; (xiii) acting as financial agent for investments in Peru for external parties; (xiv) purchasing, holding and selling instruments evidencing public debt, whether internal or external, as well as obligations of the Central Bank; (xv) making collections, payments and transfers of funds; (xvi) receiving securities and other assets in trust and leasing safety deposit boxes; and (xvii) issuing and administering credit cards and accepting and performing trust functions.
 
In addition, banks may carry out financial leasing operations by forming separate departments or subsidiaries. Banks may also promote and direct operations in foreign commerce, underwrite initial public offerings, and provide financial advisory services apart from the administration of their clients’ investment portfolios. By forming a separate department within the bank, banks may also act as trustees in trust agreements.
 
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Law 26702 authorizes banks to operate, through their subsidiaries, warehouse companies, securities brokerage companies, and to establish and administer mutual funds.
 
Branches of foreign banks enjoy the same rights and are subject to the same obligations as Peruvian banks. Multinational banks, with operations in various countries, may perform the same activities as Peruvian banks, although their foreign activities are not subject to Peruvian regulations. To carry out banking operations in the local market, multinational banks must maintain a certain portion of their capital in Peru, in at least the minimum amount that is required of Peruvian banks.
 
Finance Companies
 
Under Law 26702, finance companies are authorized to carry out the same operations as banks, with the exception of (i) issuing loans as overdrafts in checking accounts and (ii) participating in derivative operations. These operations can be carried out by finance companies only if they fulfill the requirements stated by the Peruvian Bank Superintendency.
 
Other Financial Institutions
 
The Peruvian financial system has a number of less significant entities which may provide credit, accept deposits or otherwise act as financial intermediaries on a limited basis. Leasing companies specialize in financial leasing operations where goods are leased over the term of the contract and in which one party has the option of purchasing the goods at a predetermined price. Savings and loans associations or cooperatives may accept certain types of savings deposits and provide other similar financial services.
 
Peru also has numerous mutual housing associations, municipal savings and credit associations, savings and credit cooperatives and municipal credit bureaus. The impact of these institutions on the financial system in Peru has not been significant.
 
Insurance Companies
 
Since the Peruvian insurance industry was deregulated in 1991, insurance companies have been authorized to conduct all types of operations and to enter into all forms of agreements that are needed to offer risk coverage to customers. Insurance companies may also invest in financial and non-financial assets, although they are subject to the regulations on investments and reserves established in Law 26702 and the regulations issued by the SBS.
 
Law 26702 is the principal law governing insurance companies in Peru. The SBS is charged with the supervision and regulation of all insurance companies. The formation of an insurance company requires prior authorization of the SBS.
 
The insurance industry has experienced consolidation in recent years with the number of companies decreasing from 19 in 1991 to 14 in 2009.
 
 
 
(11) 
Supervision and Regulation
 
 
(i)
Credicorp
 
Currently there are no applicable regulations under Bermuda law that are likely to materially impact our operations as they are currently structured. Under Bermuda law, there is no regulation applicable to us, as a holding company that would require that we separate the operations of our subsidiaries incorporated and existing outside Bermuda. Since our activities will be conducted primarily through our subsidiaries in Peru, the Cayman Islands and Bolivia, a summary of Peruvian banking and insurance regulations and Cayman Islands banking regulations is set forth below.
 
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Our common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). We are therefore subject to regulation by the NYSE and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a “foreign issuer.” We also must comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
We are, along with BCP, subject to certain requirements set forth in Peruvian Law 26702 (“Peruvian Banking Law” or “Law 26702”) as well as certain banking statutes issued by the Peruvian banking regulator, Superintendencia de Banca y Seguros y AFP (SBS), including SBS Resolution No.0446-2000, enacted in June 2000 and which approved the “Regulation of the Consolidated Supervision of Financial and Mixed Conglomerates.” These regulations affect BCP and us primarily in the areas of reporting, risk control guidelines, limitations, ratios and capital requirements.
 
Since our common shares are listed on the Lima Stock Exchange in addition to the New York Stock Exchange, we are subject to certain reporting requirements to CONASEV, the Peruvian securities market regulator, and the Lima Stock Exchange. See “Item 9. The Offer and Listing—(C) Markets—The Lima Stock Exchange—(ii) Market Regulation.”
 
 
 
(ii)
BCP
 
Overview
 
BCP’s operations are regulated by Peruvian law. The regulations for the operation of the Peruvian financial sector are stated in Law 26702. The SBS periodically issues resolutions that cause Law 26702 to be developed. See “—(10) The Peruvian Financial System.” The SBS, under the direction of the Superintendency of Banks and Insurance Companies, supervises and regulates entities that Law 26702 classifies as financial institutions. These entities include commercial banks, finance companies, small business finance companies, savings and loan corporations, financial services companies such as trust companies and investment banks, and insurance companies. Financial institutions must seek the SBS’s authorization before beginning operations.
 
BCP’s operations are supervised and regulated by the SBS and the Central Bank. Those who violate Law 26702 and its underlying regulations are subject to administrative sanctions and criminal penalties. Additionally, the SBS and the Central Bank have the authority to issue fines to financial institutions and their directors and officers if they violate the laws or regulations of Peru, or their own institutions’ bye-laws.
 
CONASEV is the Peruvian government institution in charge of (i) promoting the securities market, (ii) making sure fair competition takes place in the securities markets, (iii) supervising the management of businesses that trade in the securities markets and (iv) regulating their activities and accounting practices. BCP must inform CONASEV of significant events that affect its business and is required to provide financial statements to it and the Lima Stock Exchange each quarter. BCP is also regulated by CONASEV through Credibolsa, which is BCP’s wholly-owned brokerage house, and Credifondo, which is BCP’s wholly-owned mutual fund administration company. CONASEV examines Credibolsa and Credifondo on a regular basis.
 
Under Peruvian law, banks may conduct brokerage operations and administer mutual funds but must do so through subsidiaries. However, bank employees may market the financial products of the bank’s brokerage and mutual fund subsidiaries. Banks are prohibited from issuing insurance policies, but are not prohibited from distributing insurance policies issued by insurance companies.
 
Authority of the SBS
 
Peru’s Constitution and Law 26702 (which contains the statutory charter of the SBS) grant the SBS the authority to oversee and control banks and financial institutions (with the exception of brokerage firms), insurance and reinsurance companies, companies that receive deposits from the general public and other similar entities as defined by the law. The SBS is also responsible for supervising the Central Bank to ensure that it abides by its statutory charter and bye-laws. Law 27328, enacted in July 2000, transferred to the SBS the supervision and regulation of the pension funds private administrators (“AFPs”) which were previously supervised and regulated by a specialized entity.
 
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The SBS has administrative, financial and operating autonomy. Its objectives include protecting the public interest, ensuring the financial stability of the institutions over which it has authority and punishing violators of its regulations. Its responsibilities include:  (i) reviewing and approving, with the assistance of the Central Bank, the establishment and organization of subsidiaries of the institutions it regulates; (ii) overseeing mergers, dissolutions and reorganization of banks, financial institutions and insurance companies; (iii) supervising financial, insurance and related companies from which information on an individual or consolidated basis is required, through changes in ownership and management control (this supervision also applies to non-bank holding companies, such as us); (iv) reviewing the bye-laws and amendments of bye-laws of these companies; (v) issuing criteria governing the transfer of bank shares, when permitted by law, for valuation of assets and liabilities and for minimum capital requirements; and (vi) controlling the Central de Riesgos (Bank Risk Assessment Center), to which all banks are legally required to provide information regarding all businesses and individuals with whom they deal without regard to the amount of credit risk (the information provided is made available to all banks to allow them to monitor individual borrowers’ overall exposure to Peru’s banks). In addition to them, the SBS is also responsible for stating the criteria relating to the existence of financial or mixed conglomerates in Peru and their supervising.
 
As a consequence of it, despite its supervising to BCP, the SBS also supervises Credicorp Ltd. on the basis that we are a financial conglomerate conducting the majority of our operations in Peru.
 
Management of Operational Risk
 
SBS Resolutions No. 006-2002 and 37-2008 established guidelines for operational risk management, which includes a broad range of risks and defines operational risks as those dealing with the possibility of suffering financial losses due to deficiencies in internal procedures, information technology or personnel, or the occurrence of adverse external events. Its also establishes responsibilities for developing policies and procedures to identify, measure, control and report such risks. Banks are required to adequately manage risks involved in the performance and continuity of their operations and services in order to minimize possible financial losses and reputation damage due to inadequate or non-existent policies or procedures.
 
Credicorp, following these SBS guidelines, as well as the guidelines issued by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, and the advice of international consultants, has appointed a specialized team that is responsible for operational risk management across our organization. This team reports regularly to our risk committee, top managers and Board of Directors.
 
We intend to be guided by the risk control standards of international financial institutions that are noted for their leadership in this field. Our overall objective is to implement an efficient and permanent monitoring system to control operational risks, while the actual management of risk control procedures is conducted by the areas that carry out critical activities.
 
During 2008 and 2009, we broadened the responsibility of our operational risk team. First, along with critical processes and new products risk analysis, we are assessing operational risks related to critical suppliers, critical information assets, and technological components. Secondly, we have also fully developed the business continuity management, or BCM, discipline, which involves the implementation of continuity plans for critical business processes, incident management and training and testing. Thirdly, we implement procedures to register, collect, analyze and report risk operational losses looking forward to advanced models  to  operational risk capital allocation requirements. Lastly, we formed the monitoring and reporting team, which main objective is to follow up the actions plans, monitor the KRI and other performance indicators.
 
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Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, we are required to make certain certifications regarding our internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009. We have developed internal methods to evaluate how effective our internal controls are over our financial reporting. In addition, we are implementing computer programs that will allow us to continuously monitor, assess and document our internal controls. During 2009, we completed our evaluation of internal controls over financial reporting and are now able to obtain the attestation of our independent auditors. See “Item 15. Controls and Procedures.”
 
Capital Adequacy Requirements
 
The capital adequacy requirements are set forth in the Peruvian Banking Law (Law 26702) and monitored and regulated by the Superintendency of Banks, Insurance and Private Pension Funds Administrators (the “SBS”). Law 26702 was enacted in December 1996 and amended in June 2008 through Legislative Decree 1028.  The amendment became effective in July 2009 and required the capital guidelines to conform to the standards established by the second Basel Accord (Basel II).
 
Basel II standards modified the methodology to measure credit, market and operational risks to permit the use of standardized and internal model-based methods.  Basel II standards also permit Peruvian financial institutions to request permission from the SBS to implement an internal ratings-based (“IRB”) methodology.
 
Financial institutions that receive approval from the SBS to use the IRB methodology are subject to regulatory capital floors.  The amount of required capital may not be less than the percentage of capital required under an alternative methodology.
 
   
First Year
 
Second Year
 
Third Year
 
Basic IRB and Internal Models of Credit Risk
  95%   90%   80%  
Advanced Models of Credit Risk and/or Operational Risk
  90%   80%    
 
Prior to June 2009, the capital requirements were based upon the guidelines established by the first Basel Accord (Basel I). Financial institutions were required to limit risk-weighted assets to 11 times their regulatory capital (“patrimonio efectivo”), which is equivalent to a minimum capital ratio of 9.09% of risk-weighted assets.  Risk-weighted assets were calculated based upon five risk categories depending on the perceived risk of each asset class.
 
Pursuant to the Basel II guidelines, financial institutions are required to hold regulatory capital (“patrimonio efectivo”) that is greater than or equal to the sum of (i) 10% of credit risk-weighted assets, and (ii) 10 times the amount required to cover market and operational risks. The new minimum capital requirements will be implemented as follows.
 
Implementation
date
 
Regulatory capital
(% of total weighted
assets)
 
Total risk-weighted assets
July 1st, 2009
 
9.5%
 
10.5 times the regulatory capital needed to cover market risks;
plus
10.5 times regulatory capital needed to cover operational risks;
plus
Total amount of credit risk-weighted assets.
July 1st, 2010
 
9.8%
 
10.2 times the regulatory capital needed to cover market risks;
plus
10.2 times the regulatory capital needed to cover operational risks;
plus
Total amount of credit risk-weighted assets.
July 1st, 2011
 
10%
 
10 times the regulatory capital needed to cover market risks;
plus
10 times the regulatory capital needed to cover operational risks;
plus
Total amount of credit risk-weighted assets.

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Article 184 of Law 26702, as amended by Legislative Decree 1028, provides that regulatory capital may be used to cover credit risk, market risk and operational risk.  Regulatory capital is comprised of the sum of basic capital and supplementary capital, and is calculated as follows:
 
 
·
Basic Capital: Basic Capital or Tier 1 capital is comprised of: (i) paid-in-capital (which includes common stock and perpetual non-cumulative preferred stock), legal reserves, supplementary capital premiums, voluntary reserves distributable only with prior SBS approval, and retained earnings with capitalization agreements (earnings that the shareholders or the Board of Directors, as the case may be, have committed to capitalize as common stock); (ii) other elements that have characteristics of permanence and loss absorption that are in compliance with regulations enacted by the SBS; and (iii) unrealized gains in Subsidiaries.  Items deducted from Tier 1 capital include: (i) current and past years’ unrealized losses; (ii) deficits of loan loss provisions; (iii) goodwill resulting from corporate reorganizations or acquisitions; and (iv) half of the amount referred to in “Deductions” below.  Absent any Tier 2 capital, 100% of the amount referred to in “Deductions” below must be deducted from Tier 1 capital.  The elements referred to in item (ii) above should not exceed 17.65% of the amount resulting from adding components (i) and (iii) of Tier 1 capital net of the deductions in (i), (ii) and (iii) in this paragraph.
 
 
·
Supplementary Capital: Supplementary capital is comprised of the sum of certain elements from Tier 2 capital and Tier 3 capital. Tier 2 capital elements include: (i) voluntary reserves that may be reduced without prior consent from the SBS; (ii) the eligible portion of redeemable subordinated debt and of any other components that have characteristics of debt and equity as provided by the SBS; (iii) for banks using the Standardized Approach Method (SAM), the generic loan loss provision up to 1.25% of credit risk-weighted assets; or, alternatively, for banks using the Internal Ratings-Based Method (IRB), the generic loan loss provision up to 0.6% of total credit risk-weighted assets (pursuant to article 189 of the Law); and (iv) half of the amount referred to in “Deductions” below.  Tier 3 capital is comprised of redeemable subordinated debt that is incurred with the exclusive purpose of covering market risk, as referred to in Article 233 of the Law.
 
 
·
Deductions: The following are deducted from Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital: (i) all investments in shares and subordinated debt issued by other local or foreign financial institutions and insurance companies; (ii) all investments in shares and subordinated debt issued by an affiliate with which the bank consolidates its financial statements, including its holding company and such subsidiaries referred to in Articles 34 and 224 of the Law; (iii) the amount in which an investment in shares issued by a company with which the bank does not consolidate its financial statements and which is not part of the bank’s negotiable portfolio, exceeds 15% of the bank’s regulatory capital; (iv) the aggregate amount of all investments in shares issued by companies with which the bank does not consolidate its financial statements and which are not part of the bank’s negotiable portfolio, exceeds 60% of the regulatory capital; (v) when applicable, the amount resulting from the formula prescribed in Article 189 of the Law.  For the purposes herein, “regulatory capital” excludes the amounts referred to in (iii), (iv) and (iv) of this paragraph.
 
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Article 185 of the Law 26702 also provides that the following limits apply when calculating regulatory capital: (i) the aggregate amount of supplementary capital must not exceed the aggregate amount of basic capital; (ii) the amount of redeemable Tier 2 subordinated instruments must be limited to 50% of the amount resulting from the sum of Tier 1 elements net of the deductions in (i), (ii), and (iii) in “Basic Capital” above; (iii) the amount of Tier 3 capital must be limited to 250% of the amount resulting from the sum of Tier 1 elements net of the deductions (i), (ii), and (iii) in “Basic Capital” above in the amounts assigned to cover market risk.
 
As of December 31, 2009, BCP’s regulatory capital was 14.52% of unconsolidated risk-weighted assets, which is equivalent to having risk-weighted assets that are 6.88 times the amount of regulatory capital.
 
Legal Reserve Requirements
 
Pursuant to Article 67 of Law 26702, all banks must maintain legal reserves.  Each year a bank must allocate 10% of its net income to its legal reserves until its legal reserves are equal to 35% of its paid-in capital stock.  Any subsequent increase in paid-in capital requires a corresponding increase in the amount of legal reserves. As of December 31, 2009, BCP’s consolidated legal reserves were S/.546.5 million (US$189 million), equivalent to 21.7% of BCP’s paid-in capital as of such date.  Paid-in capital increased by S/.720 million during 2009 due to the capitalization of 2008, and paid-in capital is expected to increase by an additional S/.329.5 million in 2010 as a consequence of the capitalization of 2009 earnings.  Consequently, BCP has communicated to the SBS that it intends to reclassify S/.348.7 million of voluntary reserves into legal reserves to ensure its legal reserves equal 35% of paid-in capital.
 
Provisions for Loan Losses
 
The SBS has authority to establish loan reserves and issue guidelines for the provision of loan losses by Peruvian credit institutions, including commercial banks.  SBS Resolution No. 41-2005, enacted in January 2005, requires additional provisions for loans subject to foreign exchange risk, which are recorded for local purposes.  Beginning in July 2010, SBS Resolution No. 11356-2008, enacted in November 2008, will require commercial banks to implement a new framework for the assessment and classification of debtors.  The SBS Resolution also required the establishment of pro-cyclical provisions starting December 2008. However, given the good evolution of Peruvian GDP in 2009, the “procyclical” provisions were canceled in September 2009.  We estimate and record our allowance for loan losses according to the criteria set out in IAS 39, adjusting the local provisions as necessary.  See Note 3(f)(ii) and 3(i) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Provisions for Country Risk
 
SBS Resolution No. 505-2002 requires the establishment of provisions for exposure to country risk, which includes sovereign risk, transfer risk and expropriation or nationalization risk that may affect operations with companies or individuals in foreign countries.  The SBS has also established guidelines for the procedures and responsibilities for the management of country risk.  We estimate and record our allowance for country risk according to the criteria set out in IAS 39. See Note 3(f)(ii) and 3(i) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Central Bank Reserve Requirements
 
Under Law 26702, banks and financial institutions are required to maintain legal reserve requirements for certain obligations. In the case of obligations in local currency, the Central Bank requires financial institutions only to comply with the legal reserve requirement. There is no additional reserve for obligations in local currency. In the case of foreign currency obligations, banks are also required to have marginal reserve requirements. The exact level and method of calculation of the reserve requirement is established by the Central Bank. The reserve requirements in Peru apply to obligations such as demand and time deposits, savings accounts, securities, certain bonds and funds administered by the bank. Additionally, the Central Bank requires reserves on amounts due to subsidiaries, foreign banks and other foreign financial institutions. The Central Bank exempts the obligations from any institution subject to reserve requirements in the local financial system. Furthermore, foreign credits with period equal or older than 2 years and funding from the public sector directed to the microfinance sector are not subject to the regulation, among other exemptions
 
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At the beginning of 2009 and as part of the Central Bank´s monetary stimulus to alleviate the impact of the international crisis, the legal reserve rate was reduced to 6.5% in February and then to 6% in April. Since then, the minimum legal rate requirement has not been changed. The reserve funds can be constituted by cash and deposits, with a minimum required of 1% held in deposits in current accounts in the Central Bank. Obligations in foreign currency are subject to a marginal reserve requirement ratio of 30%. In January 2010, the Central Bank set a new marginal reserve requirement to foreign credits with a period less than 2 years, as a way to control the incoming of foreign capital into the economy. Also, the Central Bank establishes a remuneration rate on the marginal reserves, those that exceed the minimum legal requirement (6%), only if it is deposited in its current account. It must be pointed out that foreign currency can not be used as reserve requirements for liability in domestic currency, and vice versa. The Central Bank oversees compliance with the reserve requirements.
 
The reference interest rate is periodically revised by the Central Bank in accordance with its monetary policy objectives. Every first Thursday of each month the board of directors of the Central Bank approves and announces through press release the Monetary Program for the month. The reference interest rate was increased through 2008 reaching a maximum level of 6.5%. During 2009 the Central Bank started to loose its monetary policy stance as a response to the deceleration of the private spending and deterioration of the economy. In February 2009 the Central Bank started easing its monetary policy reducing the reference interest rate from 6.50% to 6.25%. After that, six consecutive reductions followed reaching the current rate level of 1.25%. The central Bank validated the decision based on the low grow of the economy and the sustained reduction observed in the rate of inflation in the first half of 2009. In its session on May 6, 2010 the Central Bank increased the reference interest rate to 1.50%.
 
In the past few years, the Central Bank has on numerous occasions changed the reserve requirement rate applicable to Peruvian financial institutions as part of its monetary policy tool. Changes in the reserve requirement regulation may adversely affect the bank´s business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Lending Activities
 
Law 26702 sets the maximum amount of credit that a financial institution may extend to a single borrower. A single borrower includes an individual or an economic group. An economic group constituting a single or common risk includes a person, such person’s close relatives and the companies in which such person or close relatives have significant share ownership or decision-making capability. According to current regulations, shareholders who own or control directly or indirectly at least one-tenth of a company’s shares are considered significant shareholders.  Significant decision-making capability is deemed to be present when, among other factors, a person or group can exercise material and continuous influence upon the decisions of a company, when a person or company holds seats on the board of directors or has principal officers in another company, or when it can be assumed that one company or person is the beneficial recipient of credit facilities granted to another company.
 
The limit on credit that may be extended to one borrower vary according to the type of borrower and the collateral received.  The limit applicable to credit for any Peruvian borrower is 10% of the bank’s regulatory capital, applied to both unconsolidated and consolidated records, which may be increased to up to 30% if the loan is collateralized in a manner acceptable under Law 26702.  If a financial institution exceeds these limits, the SBS may impose a fine on the institution.  As of December 31, 2009, the 10.0% credit limit per borrower of BCP, unconsolidated, was S/. 545.7 million (US$188.8 million) for unsecured loans, and the 30.0% limit was S/.1,637.1 million (US$566.5 million) for secured loans.
 
Pursuant to Article 52 of the organic law of the Central Bank, in certain circumstances, the Central Bank has the authority to establish limits on interest rates charged by commercial banks and other financial institutions.  No such limits are currently in place; however, there can be no assurance that the Central Bank will not establish such limits on interest rates in the future.
 
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Related Party Transactions
 
Law 26702 regulates transactions with related parties and affiliates of financial institutions.  SBS and CONASEV have also enacted regulations that define indirect ownership, related parties and economic groups, which serve to limit transactions with related parties and affiliates.  These regulations also provide standards for the supervision of financial and mixed conglomerates formed by financial institutions.
 
The total amount of loans to directors, employees or close relatives of any such persons may not exceed 7% of a bank’s regulatory capital.  All loans made to any single related party borrower may not exceed 0.35% of such regulatory capital (i.e., 5% of the overall 7% limit).
 
Pursuant to Law 26702, as amended by Law 27102, the aggregate amount of loans to related party borrowers considered to be part of an economic group (as defined above) may not exceed 30% (previously 75%) of a bank’s regulatory capital.  For purposes of this test, related party borrowers include (i) any person holding, directly or indirectly, 4% or more of a bank’s shares, (ii) directors, (iii) certain principal executive officers of a bank or (iv) persons affiliated with the administrators of the bank.  Loans to individual related party borrowers are also subject to the limits on lending to a single borrower described under “—Lending Activities” above.  All loans to related parties must be made on terms no more favorable than the best terms that BCP offers to the public.
 
Ownership Restrictions
 
Law 26702 establishes certain restrictions on the ownership of a bank’s shares.  Banks must have at least two unrelated shareholders at all times.  Restrictions are placed on the ownership of shares by persons that have committed certain crimes, as well as by public officials who have supervisory powers over banks or who are majority shareholders of an enterprise of a similar nature.  All transfers of shares in a bank must be reported by the bank to the SBS after the transfer.  Transfers involving the acquisition by any individual or corporation, whether directly or indirectly, of more than 10% of a bank’s capital stock require prior authorization from the SBS. The SBS may deny authorization to such transfer of shares if the purchasers (or their shareholders in the case of juridical persons) are legally disabled, have engaged in illegal activity in the area of banking, finance, insurance or reinsurance, or if objections are raised on the basis of the purchaser’s moral fitness or economic solvency. The decision of the SBS is final, and cannot be overturned by the courts. If a transfer is made without obtaining the prior approval of the SBS, the purchaser may be fined an amount equivalent to the value of the securities transferred. In addition, the purchaser is required to sell the securities within 30 days, or the fine will double, and the purchaser is disqualified from exercising its voting rights at shareholders’ meetings. Foreign investors receive the same treatment as Peruvian nationals and are subject to the limitations described above.
 
Finally, under Peruvian law, individuals or corporations that acquire more than 3% of a bank’s shares or 1% in a period of 12 months are required to provide information to the SBS upon request.
 
Risk Rating
 
Law 26702 and SBS Resolution No. 672 require that all financial companies be rated by at least two risk rating companies on a semi-annual basis (in March and September), in addition to the SBS’s assessment.  Criteria to be considered in the rating include risk management and control procedures, loan quality, financial strength, profitability, liquidity and financial efficiency. Five risk categories are assigned, from “A” (lowest risk) to “E” (highest risk), allowing for sub-categories within each category. As of September 2009, BCP was assigned the “A+” risk category by its two rating agencies, Equilibrium Clasificadora de Riesgo and Apoyo and Associates International.
 
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Deposit Fund
 
Law 26702 provides for mandatory deposit insurance to protect the deposits of financial institutions by establishing the Fondo de Seguro de Depósitos (Deposit Insurance Fund or the Fund) for individuals, associations, not-for-profit companies, and demand deposits of non-financial companies. Financial institutions must pay an annual premium calculated on the basis of the type of deposits accepted by the entity and the risk classification of such entity, made by the SBS and at least two independent risk-rating agencies.  The annual premium begins at 0.45% of total funds on deposit under the coverage of the Fund and increases to 1.45% applicable to banks in the highest risk category. BCP is currently classified in the lowest risk category. The maximum amount (defined on a monthly basis) that a customer is entitled to recover from the Fund is S/.83,213 until the end of May 2010.
 
Intervention by the SBS
 
Pursuant to Law 26702, as amended by Law 27102, the SBS has the authority to seize the operations and assets of a bank.  These laws provide for three levels of action by the SBS: a supervisory regime, an intervention regime and the liquidation of the bank. Any of these actions may be taken if certain events occur, including if the bank: (i) interrupts payments on its liabilities, (ii) repeatedly fails to comply with the regulations of the SBS or the Central Bank, (iii) repeatedly violates the law or the provisions of the bank’s bye-laws, (iv) repeatedly manages its operations in an unauthorized or unsound manner or (v) has its regulatory capital fall or be reduced by more than 50%.
 
During the intervention regime, rather than seizing the operations and assets of a bank, the SBS may adopt other measures, including (i) placing additional requirements on the bank, (ii) ordering it to increase its capital stock or divest certain or all of its assets, or (iii) imposing a special supervision regime during which BCP must adhere to a financial restructuring plan.
 
The SBS intervention regime stops a bank’s operations and may last for a maximum of 45 days, which may be extended for an additional 45 days.  During this time, the SBS may institute measures such as: (i) canceling losses by reducing reserves, capital and subordinated debt, (ii) segregating certain assets and liabilities for transfer to another financial institution and (iii) merging the intervened bank with an acquiring institution according to the program established by Urgent Decree No. 108-2000, enacted in November 2000. After the intervention, the SBS will liquidate the bank unless it is merged with an acquiring institution, as described in (iii) above.
 
Regulation from the United States Federal Reserve Bank and from the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance
 
Banco de Credito del Peru, Miami Agency (“BCP Miami Agency”) is licensed to operate as an International Agency in the State of Florida and was authorized to transact business by the Comptroller of Florida on September 3, 2002.  The Office of Financial Regulation of the State of Florida shares regulatory responsibility with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.
 
Regulation from the Superintendency of Banks in Panama
 
BCP Panama is a branch of BCP that is registered in the Republic of Panama.  It began operating in June 2002 under an International License issued by the Panamanian Superintendence of Banks, in accordance with Law Decree No. 9 of February 26, 1998, as amended.  BCP Panama is subject to an inspection every two (2) years made by auditors and inspectors of the Panamanian Superintendence of Banks, to determine, among other things, its compliance with the Decree Law No. 2 and No. 42 Law on the Prevention of Money Laundering.
 
 
 
(iii)
ASHC
 
General
 
Atlantic Security Bank (ASB), a subsidiary of ASHC, is a Cayman Islands bank with a branch in Panama. ASB is regulated by the regulatory authorities of the Cayman Islands while its Panama branch is regulated by the banking authorities of Panama. The supervision of ASB by Cayman Islands and Panamanian regulatory authorities is less extensive than the supervision and regulation of U.S. banks by U.S. banking authorities. In particular, ASB does not have a lender of last resort and its deposits are not guaranteed by any government agency.
 
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ASB is registered as an exempt company and is licensed in the Cayman Islands pursuant to the Banks and Trust Companies Law.  ASB holds an unrestricted Category B Banking and Trust License, as well as a Mutual Fund Administrator License. As a holder of a Category B License, ASB may not take deposits from any person residing in the Cayman Islands other than another licensee, an exempt company or an ordinary non-resident company which is not carrying on business in the Cayman Islands.
 
ASB may not invest in any asset which represents a claim on any person residing in the Cayman Islands, except a claim resulting from: (i) a loan to an exempt or an ordinary non-resident company not carrying on business in the Cayman Islands; (ii) a loan by way of mortgage to a member of its staff or to a person possessing or being deemed to possess Caymanian status under the immigration law, for the purchase or construction of a residence in the Cayman Islands to be owner-occupied; (iii) a transaction with another licensee or (iv) the purchase of bonds or other securities issued by the government of the Cayman Islands, a body incorporated by statute, or a company in which the government is the sole or majority beneficial owner.  In addition, ASB may not, without the written approval of the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (the “Authority”), carry on any business in the Cayman Islands other than permitted by the Category B License.
 
There are no ratio or liquidity requirements under the Cayman Banking Law, but the Authority expects observance of prudent banking practices.  As a matter of general practice, the ratio of liabilities to capital and surplus should not exceed 40-to-1 and the ratio of risk-weighted assets to capital and surplus should not exceed 8.33-to-1 (approximately 12%). There is a statutory minimum net worth requirement of US$480,000, but the Authority generally requires a bank or trust company to maintain a higher paid-in capital appropriate to its business.  The Authority requires compliance with the guidelines promulgated by the Basel Accord on Banking Regulations and Supervisory Practices although, in special circumstances, different gearing and/or capital risk asset ratios may be negotiated. Compliance with the Cayman Banking Law is monitored by the Authority.
 
Continuing Requirements
 
Under the law of the Cayman Islands, ASB is subject to the following continuing requirements: (i) to remain in good standing under the Cayman Islands Companies Law, including the filing of annual and other returns and the payment of annual fees; (ii) to file with the Registrar of Companies any change in the information or documents required to be provided and to pay annual fees; (iii) to file certain prescribed forms with the Authority on a quarterly basis; (iv) to file with the Authority audited accounts within three months of each financial year (in the case of a locally incorporated bank which is not part of a substantial international banking group, a senior officer or board member discusses these accounts each year at a meeting with the Authority) and (v) to file an annual questionnaire.
 
ASB is required by the Cayman Banking Law to have at least two directors. Additionally, ASB must receive prior approval from the Authority (i) for any proposed change in the directors or senior officers, though in exceptional cases a waiver can be obtained enabling changes to be reported after the event or annually in the case of a branch of a substantial international bank; (ii) for the issue, transfer or other disposal of shares (it is rare for a waiver to be granted with respect to shares except in the case of a branch of a substantial international bank and where the shares are widely held and publicly traded); (iii) for any significant change in the business plan filed on the original license application or (iv) to open a subsidiary, branch, agency or representative office outside the Cayman Islands. Finally, ASB must obtain the prior approval of the Authority to change its name and must notify the Authority of any change in the principal office and authorized agent in the Cayman Islands.
 
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(iv)
BCB
 
Until March 2010, the Bolivian banking system operated under the Ley de Bancos y Entidades Financieras (the Law of Banks and Financial Entities) No. 1488, enacted on April 14, 1993, which was modified by Law 3076 of June 20, 2005, which granted supervisory powers to the Superintendency of Banks and Financial Entities (now referred to as the Financial System Supervisory Authority (Autoridad de Supervición del Sistema Financero), pursuant to Supreme Decree 29894).   In addition, the law established that Banco Central de Bolivia (the Central Bank of Bolivia) would regulate financial intermediation and deposit activities, determine monetary and foreign exchange policy, and establish reserve requirements on deposits and capital adequacy, which banks and financial companies were required to follow. Also, the Autoridad de Supervición del Sistema Financiero (the Financial System Supervisory Authority) supervised brokerage activities and mutual fund management that was conducted through BCB’s subsidiaries Credibolsa S.A. and Credifondo S.A. These subsidiaries operated under the Ley del Mercado de Valores (the Securities Markets Law) No. 1834, enacted on March 31, 1998.
 
The new constitution of Bolivia, which was approved by referendum in February 2009, established that the Bolivian financial system is to be regulated as follows:
 
(i) The Central Bank of Bolivia is responsible for maintaining the stability of the internal monetary value and has authority to regulate monetary policy, control foreign exchange policies, regulate the payment system, authorize the issuance of money and administrate international reserves in coordination with the Economic Policy stated by the Public Sector.
 
(ii) All financial entities (banks, mutual funds, securities, insurance and others) are regulated by the Financial System Supervisory Authority (or FSSA). The FSSA (or ASFI in Spanish) has assumed all regulatory functions held previously be the Superintendency of Banks and Financial Entities and the Superintendency of Pensions, Securities and Insurance.
 
The changes to existing laws by the new Bolivian constitution have not materially impacted BCB’s business.
 
 
 
(v)
PPS
 
Overview
 
PPS’s operations are regulated by Law 26702 and the SBS.  Peruvian insurance companies must submit regular reports to the SBS regarding their operations. In addition, the SBS conducts on-sight reviews on an annual basis.  The SBS conducts these reviews primarily to review a company’s compliance with solvency margin and reserve requirements, investment requirements and rules governing the recognition of premium income. If the SBS determines that a company is unable to meet the solvency margin or technical reserve requirements, or is unable to pay claims as they come due, it may either liquidate the company or permit it to merge with another insurance company.
 
Under Peruvian law, insurance companies may engage in certain credit risk operations, such as guarantees, bonds and trusteeships, but are prohibited from offering other banking services, operating mutual funds or offering portfolio management services. In addition, insurance companies may not conduct brokerage operations for third parties.
 
Peruvian insurance companies are also prohibited from having an ownership interest in other insurance or reinsurance companies of the same class or in private pension funds.
 
Establishment of an Insurance Company
 
Insurance companies must be authorized by the SBS to commence operations. Peruvian law establishes certain minimum capital requirements for insurance and reinsurance companies, which must be satisfied by cash investments in the company. The statutory amounts are expressed in constant value.
 
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Solvency Requirements
 
Pursuant to Law 26702, the SBS regulates the solvency margin of Peruvian insurance companies. The solvency margin calculations take into account the amount of premiums written and losses incurred during a specified period prior to the date of the calculation.
 
Insurance companies must also maintain solvency equity, which must be the greater of (i) the solvency margin and (ii) the minimum capital requirement, as established by law. The required amount of solvency equity is recalculated at least quarterly.  If an insurance company has outstanding credit risk operations, part of the solvency equity must be set aside for its coverage.
 
Legal Reserve Requirements
 
Peruvian law also requires that all insurance companies establish a legal guarantee reserve for policyholders by setting aside 10% of income before taxes until the reserve reaches at least 35% of paid-in capital.
 
Reserve Requirements
 
Pursuant to Law 26702 and regulations issued by the SBS, Peruvian insurance companies must establish technical reserves. See “—(6) Pacífico Peruano Suiza—(ii) Claims and Reserves.” Law 26702 also requires insurance companies to create a reserve for IBNR claims, which are reflected as a liability, net of recoveries and reinsurance, in the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements. Reserves for IBNR claims are estimated by using generally accepted actuarial reserving methods. See Note 3(e) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements. Finally, PPS is required by the SBS to establish pre-event reserves for risk of catastrophes, which, in accordance with IFRS principles, are not considered in our financial statements. See “—(6) Pacífico Peruano Suiza—(ii) Claims and Reserves.”
 
Investment Requirements
 
Pursuant to Law 26702, the total amount of an insurance company’s solvency equity and technical reserves must be permanently supported by diversified assets, which may not be pledged or otherwise encumbered.  The investment regulations further state that deposits in and bonds of one financial institution together cannot exceed 10% of the total of an insurer’s solvency equity and technical reserves combined. In general, no more than 20% of an insurance company’s combined solvency equity and technical reserves may be invested in instruments (including stocks and bonds) issued by a company or group of companies.  In order for an insurance company to invest in non-Peruvian securities, the securities must be rated by an internationally recognized credit rating company and the asset class must be authorized by Peruvian SBS regulations. Securities owned by insurance companies must be registered in the Public Registry of Securities of Peru or the comparable registry of their respective country.
 
Related Party Transactions
 
Law 26702 generally provides that insurance companies may not extend credit to or guarantee the obligations of employees or members of the board of directors, except for certain home mortgage loans to employees.
 
Ownership Restrictions
 
Law 26702 sets forth the same types of restrictions regarding the ownership and transfer of insurance company shares as it does regarding the ownership and transfer of shares in banks. See “—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP—Overview.”
 
64

 
 
(12) 
Selected Statistical Information
 
In the following tables, we have set forth certain selected statistical information and ratios regarding our business for the periods indicated. You should read the selected statistical information in conjunction with the information included in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—(A) Operating Results” and the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements (and the notes that accompany the financial statements). The statistical information and discussion and analysis given below for the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 reflect our consolidated financial position as well as that of our subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 and our results of operations for 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
 
 
 
(i)
Average Balance Sheets and Income from Interest-Earning Assets
 
The tables below set forth selected statistical information based on our average balance sheets prepared on a consolidated basis.  Except as otherwise indicated, we have classified average balances by currency (Nuevos Soles or foreign currency (primarily U.S. Dollars)) rather than by the domestic or international nature of the balance. In addition, except where noted, the average balances are based on the quarterly ending balances in each year.  Any of these quarter-end balances that were denominated in Nuevos Soles have been converted into U.S. Dollars using the applicable SBS exchange rate as of the date of such balance.  We have in certain cases restated nominal average interest rates as real average interest rates using the formula described below. Our management believes that adjusting average balances and average interest rates for inflation in this manner provides more meaningful information for investors than unadjusted average balances and rates, and does not believe that the stated averages present trends materially differ from those that would be presented by daily averages.
 
Real Average Interest Rates
 
We calculated the real average interest rates set forth in the tables below by adjusting the nominal average interest rates on Nuevo Sol-denominated assets and liabilities using the following formula:
 
 
Where:
 
R(s)
real average interest rate on Nuevo Sol-denominated assets and liabilities for the period.
N(s)
nominal average interest rate on Nuevo Sol-denominated assets and liabilities for the period.
I
inflation rate in Peru for the period (based on the Peruvian consumer price index).
 
Under this formula, assuming positive nominal average interest rates, the real average interest rate on a portfolio of Nuevo Sol-denominated assets or liabilities would be equal to the nominal average interest rate on that portfolio if the inflation rate were zero. The real average interest rate would be less than the nominal average interest rate if the inflation rate were positive, and the real average interest rate would be greater than the nominal average interest rate if the inflation rate were negative (i.e., becomes a deflation rate). In addition, the real average interest rate would be negative if the inflation rate were greater than the average nominal interest rate.
 
The following tables show average balances for all of our assets and liabilities, interest earned and paid amounts, and nominal rates and real rates for our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, all for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009.

 
65

 

Average Balance Sheets
Assets, Interest Earned and Average Interest Rates
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2008
 
2009
 
ASSETS:
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Earned
 
Real Avg.
Rate
 
Nominal
Avg.
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Earned
 
Real Avg.
Rate
 
Nominal
Avg.
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Earned
 
Real
Avg.
Rate
 
Nominal
Avg. Rate
 
 
 
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Interest-earning assets:                                                  
Deposits in Central Bank
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
 
US$ 16,559
 
US$ 339
  1.00 % 2.05
US$ 221,485
 
US$ 10,055
  3.44 % 4.54
US$ 64,870
 
US$ 1,425
  1.12 % 2.20 %
Foreign Currency
  1,422,395   46,582   3.27   3.27   1,737,797   27,859   1.60   1.60   2,099,395   3,446   0.16   0.16  
Total
  1,438,954   46,921   3.25   3.26   1,959,282   37,914   1.81   1.94   2,164,265   4,871   0.19   0.23  
Deposits in other banks
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  30,337   1,224   2.96   4.04   68,990   2,821   2.99   4.09   111,006   5,733   4.05   5.16  
Foreign Currency
  1,002,633   57,672   5.75   5.75   778,822   34,531   4.43   4.43   920,030   5,314   0.58   0.58  
Total
  1,032,970   58,896   5.67   5.70   847,812   37,352   4.32   4.41   1,031,036   11,047   0.95   1.07  
Investment securities
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  2,110,943   138,028   5.44   6.54   2,453,796   187,156   6.49   7.63   1,536,677   38,313   1.41   2.49  
Foreign Currency
  2,131,911   93,734   4.40   4.40   3,355,232   110,865   3.30   3.30   3,288,724   148,316   4.51   4.51  
Total
  4,242,854   231,762   4.92   5.46   5,809,028   298,021   4.65   5.13   4,825,401   186,629   3.52   3.87  
Total loans (1)
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  1,942,261   262,401   12.34   13.51   2,987,721   400,394   12.20   13.40   3,893,475   537,357   12.60   13.80  
Foreign Currency
  5,101,392   439,070   8.61   8.61   6,533,987   563,546   8.62   8.62   6,810,072   524,689   7.70   7.70  
Total
  7,043,653   701,471   9.64   9.96   9,521,708   963,940   9.75   10.12   10,703,547   1,062,046   9.49   9.92  
Total dividend-earning assets
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  215,100   5,791   1.64   2.69   174,356   6,672   2.73   3.83   160,185   2,057   0.22   1.28  
Foreign Currency
  118,334   3,079   2.60   2.60   107,567   5,517   5.13   5.13   114,074   7,658   6.71   6.71  
Total
  333,434   8,870   1.98   2.66   281,923   12,189   3.65   4.32   274,259   9,715   2.92   3.54  
Total interest-earning assets
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  4,315,200   407,783   8.32   9.45   5,906,348   607,098   9.12   10.28   5,766,213   584,885   8.98   10.14  
Foreign Currency
  9,776,665   640,137   6.55   6.55   12,513,405   742,318   5.93   5.93   13,232,295   689,423   5.21   5.21  
Total
  14,091,865   1,047,920   7.09   7.44   18,419,753   1,349,416   6.95   7.33   18,998,508   1,274,308   6.35   6.71  
Noninterest-earning assets:
                                                 
Cash and due from banks
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  250,118               308,321               327,127              
Foreign Currency
  255,715               259,761               275,276              
Total
  505,833               568,082               602,403              
Reserves for loan losses
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  (37,601 )             (68,072 )             (133,303 )            
Foreign Currency
  (154,917 )             (156,850 )             (156,364 )            
Total
  (192,518 )             (224,922 )             (289,667 )            
Premises and equipment
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  182,308               269,221               303,170              
Foreign Currency
  73,948               26,805               19,242              
Total
  256,256               296,026               322,412              
Other non-interest-earning assets and gain from
derivatives instruments and other interest income
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  334,653   2,067           527,364   1,193           820,740   12,728          
Foreign Currency
  561,477   15,352           747,978   32,235           814,175   25,889          
Total
  896,130   17,419           1,275,342   33,428           1,634,915   38,617          
Total non-interest-earning assets
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  729,478   2,067           1,036,834   1,193           1,317,734   12,728          
Foreign Currency
  736,223   15,352           877,694   32,235           952,329   25,889          
Total
  1,465,701   17,419           1,914,528   33,428           2,270,063   38,617          
Total average assets
                                                 
Nuevos Soles
  5,044,678   409,850   7.01   8.12   6,943,182   608,291   7.61   8.76   7,083,947   597,613   7.29   8.44  
Foreign Currency
  10,512,888   655,489   6.24   6.24   13,391,099   774,553   5.78   5.78   14,184,624   715,312   5.04   5.04  
Total
  15,557,566   1,065,339   6.49   6.85   20,334,281   1,382,844   6.41   6.80   21,268,571   1,312,925   5.79   6.17  

(1)
Figures for total loans include past-due loans, but do not include accrued but unpaid interest on such past-due loans in the year in which such loans became past due. Accrued interest is included.
 
 
66

 

Average Balance Sheets
Liabilities, Interest Paid and Average Interest Rates
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2008
 
2009
 
LIABILITIES
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Paid
 
Real
Avg. Rate
 
Nominal
Avg. Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Paid
 
Real Avg.
Rate
 
Nominal
Avg. Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Paid
 
Real
Avg.
Rate
 
Nominal
Avg.
Rate
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Interest-bearing liabilities:
                                                 
Demand  deposits
                                                 
Nuevos Soles (1)
 
US$
1,120,416
 
US$
12,761
    0.10   1.14
US$
1,685,905
 
US$
22,986
    0.29   1.36
US$
1,723,108
 
US$
15,378
    -0.17   0.89 %
Foreign Currency (1)
    2,206,983     12,362     0.56     0.56     2,603,193     15,099     0.58     0.58     2,685,555     6,036     0.22     0.22  
Total
    3,327,399     25,123     0.40     0.76     4,289,098     38,085     0.47     0.89     4,408,663     21,414     0.07     0.49  
Savings deposits
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles (1)
    711,641     8,550     0.16     1.20     1,143,032     13,511     0.11     1.18     1,283,529     8,610     -0.39     0.67  
Foreign Currency (1)
    1,396,318     11,319     0.81     0.81     1,560,084     13,654     0.88     0.88     1,952,183     9,899     0.51     0.51  
Total
    2,107,959     19,869     0.59     0.94     2,703,116     27,165     0.55     1.00     3,235,712     18,509     0.15     0.57  
Time deposits
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles (1)
    1,440,081     82,746     4.66     5.75     2,659,712     156,137     4.75     5.87     1,988,784     86,312     3.24     4.34  
Foreign Currency (1)
    3,613,304     180,741     5.00     5.00     3,640,246     154,719     4.25     4.25     4,191,628     119,806     2.86     2.86  
Total
    5,053,385     263,487     4.90     5.21     6,299,958     310,856     4.46     4.93     6,180,412     206,118     2.98     3.34  
Due to banks and correspondents
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    153,258     6,033     2.87     3.94     190,227     8,763     3.50     4.61     201,718     4,851     1.32     2.40  
Foreign Currency
    1,411,710     77,037     5.46     5.46     2,341,164     96,055     4.10     4.10     1,969,158     46,803     2.38     2.38  
Total
    1,564,968     83,070     5.20     5.31     2,531,391     104,818     4.06     4.14     2,170,876     51,654     2.28     2.38  
Bonds
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    201,787     12,954     5.33     6.42     468,265     30,864     5.47     6.59     528,565     35,133     5.52     6.65  
Foreign Currency
    341,643     20,638     6.04     6.04     294,716     20,892     7.09     7.09     452,412     31,860     7.04     7.04  
Total
    543,430     33,592     5.78     6.18     762,981     51,756     6.09     6.78     980,977     66,993     6.22     6.83  
Total interest-bearing liabilities
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    3,627,183     123,044     2.33     3.39     6,147,141     232,261     2.68     3.78     5,725,704     150,284     1.54     2.62  
Foreign Currency
    8,969,958     302,097     3.37     3.37     10,439,403     300,419     2.88     2.88     11,250,936     214,404     1.91     1.91  
Total
    12,597,141     425,141     3.07     3.37     16,586,544     532,680     2.81     3.21     16,976,640     364,688     1.78     2.15  
Non-interest-bearing liabilities and net equity:
                                                                         
Other liabilities and loss from derivatives instruments and other interest expenses
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    157,062     2,687                 489,502     20,850                 676,295     (11,177 )            
Foreign Currency
    1,123,751     3,537                 1,363,623     8,087                 1,489,528     67,053              
Total
    1,280,813     6,224                 1,853,125     28,937                 2,165,823     55,876              
Equity attributable to Credicorp equity holders
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
                                                                         
Foreign Currency
    1,547,283                       1,770,400                       1,980,856                    
Total
    1,547,283                       1,770,400                       1,980,856                    
Minority Interest
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
                                                                         
Foreign Currency
    132,329                       124,212                       145,252                    
Total
    132,329                       124,212                       145,252                    
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities and equity
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    157,062     2,687                 489,502     20,850                 676,295     (11,177 )            
Foreign Currency
    2,803,363     3,537                 3,258,235     8,087                 3,615,636     67,053              
Total
    2,960,425     6,224                 3,747,737     28,937                 4,291,931     55,876              
Total average liabilities and equity
                                                                         
Nuevos Soles
    3,784,245     125,731     2.26     3.32     6,636,643     253,111     2.72     3.81     6,401,999     139,107     1.09     2.17  
Foreign Currency
    11,773,321     305,634     2.60     2.60     13,697,638     308,506     2.25     2.25     14,866,572     281,457     1.89     1.89  
Total
    15,557,566     431,365     2.51     2.77     20,334,281     561,617     2.40     2.76     21,268,571     420,564     1.65     1.98  

(1) 
Includes the amount paid to Central Bank for the deposit insurance fund.

 
67

 
 
Changes in Net Interest Income and Expense: Volume and Rate Analysis
 
   
2008/2007
 
2009/2008 
   
Increase/(Decrease) due to changes in:
 
Increase/(Decrease) due to changes in:
   
Volume
 
Rate
 
Net Change
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
Net Change
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
Interest Income:
                       
Interest-earning deposits in Central Bank
Nuevos Soles
  4,194   5,522   9,716   (7,110)   (1,520)   (8,630)
Foreign Currency
  10,329   (29,052)   (18,723)   5,797   (30,210)   (24,413)
Total
  14,523   (23,530)   (9,007)   (1,313)   (31,730)   (33,043)
Deposits in other banks
                       
Nuevos Soles
  1,560   37   1,597   1,718   1,194   2,912
Foreign Currency
  (12,873)   (10,268)   (23,141)   6,261   (35,478)   (29,217)
Total
  (11,313)   (10,231)   (21,544)   7,979   (34,284)   (26,305)
Investment securities
                       
Nuevos Soles
  22,418   26,710   49,128   (69,951)   (78,892)   (148,843)
Foreign Currency
  53,786   (36,655)   17,131   (2,198)   39,649   37,451
Total
  76,204   (9,945)   66,259   (72,149)   (39,243)   (111,392)
Total loans(1)
                       
Nuevos Soles
  141,242   (3,249)   137,993   121,383   15,580   136,963
Foreign Currency
  123,302   1,174   124,476   23,812   (62,669)   (38,857)
Total
  264,544   (2,075)   262,469   145,195   (47,089)   98,106
Total dividend-earning assets
                       
Nuevos Soles
  (1,097)   1,978   881   (542)   (4,073)   (4,615)
Foreign Currency
  (280)   2,718   2,438   334   1,807   2,141
Total
  (1,377)   4,696   3,319   (208)   (2,266)   (2,474)
Total interest-earning assets
                       
Nuevos Soles
  150,362   48,953   199,315   (14,404) ) (7,809)   (22,213)
Foreign Currency
  179,191   (77,010)   102,181   42,646   (95,541)   (52,895)
Total
  329,553   (28,057)   301,496   28,242   (103,350)   (75,108)
Interest Expense:
                       
Demand deposits
                       
Nuevos Soles
  6,441   3,784   10,225   508   (8,116)   (7,608)
Foreign Currency
  2,219   518   2,737   477   (9,540)   (9,063)
Total
  8,660   4,302   12,962   985   (17,656)   (16,671)
Savings deposits
                       
Nuevos Soles
  5,183   (222)   4,961   1,660   (6,561)   (4,901)
Foreign Currency
  1,328   1,007   2,335   3,432   (7,187)   (3,755)
Total
  6,511   785   7,296   5,092   (13,748)   (8,656)
Time deposits
                       
Nuevos Soles
  70,079   3,312   73,391   (39,387)   (30,438)   (69,825)
Foreign Currency
  1,348   (27,370)   (26,022)   23,435   (58,349)   (34,914)
Total
  71,427   (24,058)   47,369   (15,952)   (88,787)   (104,739)
Due to banks and correspondents and issued bonds
Nuevos Soles
  1,455   1,275   2,730   529   (4,441)   (3,912)
Foreign Currency
  50,720   (31,702)   19,018   (15,263)   (33,989)   (49,252)
Total
  52,175   (30,427)   21,748   (14,734)   (38,430)   (53,164)
Bonds
                       
Nuevos Soles
  17,107   803   17,910   3,974   295   4,269
Foreign Currency
  (2,835)   3,089   254   11,179   (211)   10,968
Total
  14,272   3,892   18,164   15,153   84   15,237
Total interest-bearing liabilities
                       
Nuevos Soles
  85,484   23,733   109,217   (15,924)   (66,053)   (81,977)
Foreign Currency
  49,489   (51,167)   (1,678)   23,354   (109,369)   (86,015)
Total
  134,973   (27,434)   107,539   7,430   (175,422)   (167,992)

(1)
Figures for total loans include past-due loans, but do not include accrued but unpaid interest on such past-due loans in the year in which such loans became past due. Accrued interest is included.
 
68

 
Interest-Earning Assets, Net Interest Margin and Yield Spread
 
The following table shows for each of the periods indicated, by currency, the levels of average interest-earning assets, net interest income, gross yield, net interest margin and yield spread, all on a nominal basis:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Average interest-earning assets
                 
Nuevos Soles
    4,315,200       5,906,348       5,766,213  
Foreign Currency
    9,776,665       12,513,405       13,232,295  
Total
    14,091,865       18,419,753       18,998,508  
Net interest income
                       
Nuevos Soles
    284,739       374,837       434,601  
Foreign Currency
    338,040       441,899       475,019  
Total
    622,779       816,736       909,620  
Gross yield (1)
                       
Nuevos Soles
    9.45 %     10.28 %     10.14 %
Foreign Currency
    6.55 %     5.93 %     5.21 %
Weighted-average rate
    7.44 %     7.33 %     6.71 %
Net interest margin (2)
                       
Nuevos Soles
    6.60 %     6.35 %     7.54 %
Foreign Currency
    3.46 %     3.53 %     3.59 %
Weighted-average rate
    4.42 %     4.43 %     4.79 %
Yield spread (3)
                       
Nuevos Soles
    6.06 %     6.50 %     7.52 %
Foreign Currency
    3.18 %     3.05 %     3.30 %
Weighted-average rate
    4.06 %     4.11 %     4.56 %

(1)
Gross yield is interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(2)
Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(3)
Yield spread, on a nominal basis, represents the difference between gross yield on average interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
 
 
69

 
 
Interest-Earning Deposits With Other Banks
 
The following table shows the short-term funds deposited with other banks. These deposits are denominated by currency as of the dates indicated. Deposits held in countries other than Peru are denominated in several currencies; however, the majority of these deposits are denominated in U.S. Dollars. These currencies were converted to U.S. Dollars using the applicable SBS exchange rate as of the dates indicated.

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
                   
Nuevo Sol-denominated:
                 
Peruvian Central Bank
 
  
US$ -       US$ 1,601,574       US$ 56,753  
Commercial banks
    41,826       36,184       43,982  
Total Nuevo Sol-denominated
 
 
US$ 41,826       US$ 1,637,758       US$ 100,735  
Foreign Currency-denominated:
                       
Peruvian Central Bank (U.S. Dollars)
 
 
US$ 1,000,000       US$                -       US$ 2,033,290  
U.S. Dollars, other
    1,360,649       1,030,665       763,631  
Other
    50,472       40,332       516  
Total Foreign Currency-denominated
    US$ 2,411,121       US$ 1,070,997       US$ 2,797,437  
Total
    US$ 2,452,947       US$ 2,708,755       US$ 2,898,172  
 
 
(ii)
Investment Portfolio
 
The following table shows the fair value of our trading and available-for-sale investment securities designated by type of security at the dates indicated (see Note 5 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements):

   
On December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in Thousands)
 
                   
Nuevo Sol-denominated:
                 
Peruvian government bonds
  US$ 274,391     US$ 244,037     US$ 170,811  
Equity securities
  227,751     119,481     199,410  
Bonds
  110,916     115,232     150,917  
Peruvian Central Bank certif. notes
  2,407,005     1,138,214     1,548,715  
Other investments
  132,788     117,766     149,591  
Total Nuevo Sol-denominated
  3,152,851     1,734,730     2,219,444  
Foreign Currency-denominated:
                 
Equity securities
  US$ 118,313     US$ 93,208     US$ 131,327  
Bonds
  1,198,073     1,030,151     1,634,708  
Investment in Peruvian Government Bonds
  362,603     562,438     669,056  
Peruvian Central Bank certif. notes
  -     1,070,728     -  
Other investment
  406,262     452,347     443,493  
Total Foreign Currency-denominated
  US$ 2,085,251     US$ 3,208,872     US$ 2,878,584  
Total securities holdings:
  US$ 5,238,102     US$ 4,943,602     US$ 5,098,028  

The allowance for decline in value of marketable securities is debited from the value of each individual security.

 
70

 

The weighted-average yield on our Nuevo Sol-denominated interest-earning investment securities was 6.5% in 2007, 7.6% in 2008 and 2.5% in 2009. The weighted-average yield on our foreign currency-denominated portfolio was 4.4% in 2007, 3.3% in 2008 and 4.5% in 2009. The total weighted-average yield of our investment securities was 5.4% in 2007, 5.1% in 2008 and 3.5% in 2009.
 
The weighted-average yield on our Nuevo Sol-denominated dividend-earning assets was 2.7% in 2007, 3.8% in 2008 and 1.2% in 2009. The weighted-average yield on our foreign currency-denominated portfolio was 2.6% in 2007, 5.1% in 2008 and 6.7% in 2009. The total weighted-average yield of our dividend-earning assets was 2.7% in 2007, 4.3% in 2008 and 3.5% in 2009.
 
The following table shows the maturities of our trading and available-for-sale investment securities designated by type of security on December 31, 2009:
 
   
Within 1 year
   
After 1 year
but within 3
years
   
Maturing
After 3 years
but within 5
years
   
Maturing
After 5 years
but within 10
years
   
After 10
years
   
Total
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Nuevo Sol-denominated: (1)
                                   
Peruvian government bonds
  US$ 10,782     US$ 19,810     US$ 18,843     US$ 4,961     US$ 116,415     US$ 170,811  
Equity securities (1)
  199,410     -     -     -     -     199,410  
Bonds and debentures
  16,699     17,735     21,722     29,729     65,032     150,917  
Peruvian Central Bank certif. notes
  1,548,715     -     -     -     -     1,548,715  
Other investments
  126,322     -     9,661     2,486     11,122     149,591  
Total Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 1,901,928     US$ 37,545     US$ 50,226     US$ 37,176     US$ 192,569     US$ 2,219,444  
Foreign Currency-denominated: (1)
                                   
Peruvian government bonds
  47,612     24,990     364,413     57,954     174,087     669,056  
Equity securities
  131,327     -     -     -     -     131,327  
Bonds
  336,380     457,315     298,994     224,011     318,008     1,634,708  
Peruvian Central Bank certif. notes
  -     -     -     -     -     -  
Other investments
  357,284     4,288     8,915     3,255     69,751     443,493  
Total Foreign Currency-denominated
  US$ 872,603     US$ 486,593     US$ 672,322     US$ 285,220     US$ 561,846     US$ 2,878,584  
Total securities holdings:
  US$ 2,774,531     US$ 524,138     US$ 722,548     US$ 322,396     US$ 754,415     US$ 5,098,028  
Weighted-average yield
                                3.49 %

(1)
Equity securities in our account are categorized as maturing within one year.
 
The maturities of our investment securities classified by trading and available-for-sale, as of December 31, 2009, are described in “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.”.
 
Pursuant to the criteria described below, our management has determined that the unrealized losses as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were temporary and intends to hold each investment for a sufficient period of time to allow for a potential recovery in fair value. This holding period will last until the earlier of the investment’s recovery or maturity.
 
For equity investments (shares), management considers the following criteria to determine whether a loss is temporary:
 
 
·
The length of time and the extent to which fair value has been below cost;
 
 
·
The severity of the impairment;
 
 
·
The cause of the impairment and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; and
 
 
71

 

 
·
Activity in the market of the issuer which may indicate adverse credit conditions.
 
For debt investments (fixed maturity), management considers the following criteria to determine whether a loss is temporary:
 
 
·
Management assesses the probability that the company will receive all amounts due (principal and interest) under the contract of the security.  It considers a number of factors in identifying a credit-impaired security, including:  (i) the nature of the security and the underlying collateral, (ii) the amount of subordination or credit enhancement supporting the security, (iii) the published credit rating and (iv) other analyses of the probable cash flows from the security. If recovery of all amounts due is not likely, management may determine that credit impairment exists and record unrealized losses in our consolidated income statement.  The unrealized loss recorded in income represents the security’s decline in fair value, which includes the decline due to forecasted cash flow shortfalls as well as widening market spread.
 
 
·
For securities with unrealized losses not identified as a credit impairment, management determines whether it is desirable to hold the security for a period of time to allow for a potential recovery in the security’s amortized cost.  Management estimates a security’s forecasted recovery period using current estimates of volatility in market interest rates (including liquidity and risk premiums).  Management considers a number of factors to determine whether to hold an investment, including (i) a quantitative estimate of the expected recovery period (which may extend to maturity), (ii) the severity of the impairment and (iii) its strategy with respect to the security or portfolio. If management determines it is not desirable to hold the security for a sufficient period of time to allow for a potential recovery in the security’s amortized cost, we record the unrealized loss in our consolidated income statement.
 
 
 
(iii)
Loan Portfolio
 
Loans by Type of Loan
 
The following table shows our loans by type of loan, at the dates indicated:
 
   
On December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Loans
 
US$
3,865,643    
US$
4,662,730    
US$
6,520,116    
US$
8,179,453    
US$
8,986,884  
Leasing transactions
    564,575       675,804       1,118,301       1,792,827       1,997,562  
Discounted notes
    213,232       256,534       325,047       368,648       349,126  
Factoring
    87,757       89,171       109,928       124,537       163,443  
Advances and overdrafts
    49,283       84,262       127,486       102,687       47,147  
Refinanced loans
    175,211       126,006       88,451       55,179       59,459  
Past-due loans
    95,769       76,770       61,488       82,867       184,567  
Unearned interest
    (78,495 )     (93,916 )     (166,972 )     (249,914 )     (282,869 )
Total loans:
 
US$
4,972,975    
US$
5,877,361    
US$
8,183,845    
US$
10,456,284    
US$
11,505,319  
Total past-due loans amounts
    (95,769 )     (76,770 )     (61,488 )     (82,867 )     (184,567 )
Total performing loans
 
US$
4,877,206    
US$
5,800,591    
US$
8,122,357    
US$
10,373,417    
US$
11,320,752  
 
 
72

 
 
The loan portfolio categories set forth in the table above are based on SBS regulations, which apply to loans generated by BCP and ASHC.  Pursuant to SBS guidelines, we categorize loans as follows:
 
 
·
Loans:  Basic term loans documented by promissory notes and other extensions of credit, such as mortgage loans, credit cards and other consumer loans in various forms, including trade finance loans to importers and exporters on specialized terms adapted to the needs of the international trade transaction.
 
 
·
Leasing Transactions: Transactions that involve our acquisition of an asset and the leasing of that asset to a client.
 
 
·
Discounted Notes: Loans discounted at the outset (the client signs a promissory note or other evidence of indebtedness for the principal amount payable at a future date). Discounted loans also include discounting of drafts, where we make a loan supported by a draft signed by one party and discounted by another party, with recourse to both parties.
 
 
·
Factoring: The sale of title to a company’s accounts receivables to a bank (or financial company).  The receivables are sold without recourse, and the bank cannot recover from the seller in the event that the accounts are uncollectible.  Under factoring loans, the seller receives funds from the bank prior to the average maturity date based on the invoice amount of the receivable, less cash discounts and allowances for estimated claims and returns, among other items.
 
 
·
Advances and Overdrafts: Extensions of credit to clients by way of an overdraft facility in the client’s checking account. This category also includes secured short-term advances.
 
 
·
Refinanced Loans: Loans that were refinanced because the client was unable to pay at maturity. A loan is categorized as a refinanced loan when a debtor is experiencing payment problems, unless the debtor is current on all interest payments and pays down at least 20% of the principal amount of the original loan. We have distinguished a sub-group titled “Restructured Loans,” which is defined as loans extended under the bankruptcy protection procedures established in the Equity Restructuring Law.
 
 
·
Past-Due Loans: Includes overdue loans. See “—Past-Due Loan Portfolio” for further detail.
 
Loans by Economic Activity
 
The following table shows our total loan portfolio composition, net of unearned interest, based on the borrower’s principal economic activity:

 
73

 

   
At December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
   
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
 
Economic Activity
                                   
Manufacturing
    US$ 1,430,559     28.77%     US$ 1,624,765     27.64%     US$ 2,204,481     26.94%  
Consumer Loans (1)
  1,364,910     27.45     1,729,682     29.43     2,480,916     30.31  
Commerce
  625,908     12.59     686,291     11.68     884,253     10.80  
Realty Business and Leasing Services
  216,095     4.35     236,445     4.02     387,180     4.73  
Mining
  223,156     4.49     303,238     5.16     463,577     5.66  
Communication, Storage and Transportation
  210,002     4.22     255,730     4.35     394,986     4.83  
Electricity, Gas and Water
  192,096     3.86     256,541     4.36     341,718     4.18  
Agriculture
  153,410     3.08     150,020     2.55     179,509     2.19  
Fishing
  117,104     2.35     152,538     2.60     134,235     1.64  
Financial Services
  105,484     2.12     163,946     2.79     219,850     2.69  
Education, Health and Other Services
  69,468     1.40     75,376     1.28     106,423     1.30  
Construction
  68,217     1.37     74,482     1.27     201,298     2.46  
Others (2)
  275,061     5.53     262,223     4.46     352,391     4.31  
Sub total
  5,051,470     101.58     5,971,277     101.59     8,350,817     102.04  
Unearned interest
  (78,495)     (1.58)     (93,916)     (1.59)     (166,972)     (2.04)  
Total
  US$ 4,972,975     100.00%     US$ 5,877,361     100.00%     US$ 8,183,845     100.00%  

(1)
Includes credit card and mortgage loans, other consumer loans and small business.
(2)
Includes personal banking and small business loans and other sectors.

 
74

 

   
At December 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
   
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
 
Economic Activity
                       
Manufacturing
 
US$ 2,535,326
    24.25%    
US$ 2,557,847
    22.23%  
Consumer Loans (1)
 
3,146,698
    30.09    
3,963,449
    34.45  
Commerce
 
1,344,921
    12.86    
1,330,023
    11.56  
Realty Business and Leasing Services
 
488,202
    4.67    
489,614
    4.26  
Mining
 
675,460
    6.46    
692,579
    6.02  
Communication, Storage and Transportation
 
515,412
    4.93    
559,025
    4.86  
Electricity, Gas and Water
 
546,014
    5.22    
782,289
    6.80  
Agriculture
 
228,623
    2.19    
271,912
    2.36  
Fishing
 
77,060
    0.74    
121,162
    1.05  
Financial Services
 
439,234
    4.20    
175,071
    1.52  
Education, Health and Other Services
 
128,527
    1.23    
156,496
    1.36  
Construction
 
229,667
    2.20    
175,508
    1.53  
Others (2)
 
351,054
    3.36    
513,213
    4.46  
Sub total
 
10,706,198
    102.40    
11,788,188
    102.46  
Unearned interest
 
(249,914
  (2.40)    
(282,869
  (2.46)  
Total
 
US$ 10,456,284
    100.00%    
US$ 11,505,319
    100.00%  

(1)
Includes credit card and mortgage loans, other consumer loans and small business.
(2)
Includes personal banking and small business loans and other sectors.

As of December 31, 2009, 71.6% of the loan portfolio was concentrated in Lima, 93.40% was concentrated in Peru, and 4.1% of the loan portfolio was concentrated in Bolivia.
 
Concentrations of Loan Portfolio and Lending Limits
 
We have loans and other contingent credits with 20 customers (considered economic groups), which, as of December 31, 2009, was US$2,549.5 million.  The amount of outstanding loans, US$2,549.5 million, represents 23.2% of the total loan portfolio. See “—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP—Lending Activities” for the definition of “economic group.”  Our total loans and other contingent credits outstanding to these customers ranged from US$260.9 million to US$85.1 million, including 18 customers with over US$90.2 million. Total loans and other contingent credits outstanding to our 20 largest customers were ranked in the following risk categories as of December 31, 2009: Class A (normal)—99.8%; Class B (potential problems)—0.2%; Class C (substandard)—0%; Class D (doubtful)—0%; and Class E (loss)—0%. See “—Classification of the Loan Portfolio.”
 
BCP’s loans to a single borrower are subject to lending limits imposed by Law 26702. See “—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP—Lending Activities.”  The lending limits depend on the nature of the borrower involved and the type of collateral received.  The sum of BCP’s loans to and deposits in either another Peruvian universal bank or Peruvian financial institution, plus any guarantees of third party performance received by BCP from such institution, may not exceed 30% of BCP’s regulatory capital (as defined by the SBS). The sum of BCP’s loans to and deposits in non-Peruvian financial institutions, plus any guarantees of third party performance received by BCP from such institutions, are limited to 5%, 10% or 30% of BCP’s regulatory capital, depending upon the level of government supervision of the institution and whether the institution is recognized by the Central Bank as an international bank of prime credit quality. The limits on lending to non-Peruvian financial institutions increases to 50% of BCP’s regulatory capital if the amount by which such loans exceed the 5%, 10% or 30% limits is backed by certain letters of credit.

 
75

 

BCP’s loans to directors and employees and their relatives have a global limit of 7% of capital stock and reserves and an individual limit of 5% of such global limit.
 
Loans to non-Peruvian individuals or companies that are not financial institutions have a limit of 5% of BCP’s regulatory capital.  However, this limit increases to 10% if the additional 5% is guaranteed by a mortgage or certain publicly-traded securities. The limit rises to 30% if the additional amount is guaranteed by certain banks or by cash deposits in BCP.  Lending on an unsecured basis to individuals or companies residing in Peru that are not financial institutions is limited to 10% of BCP’s regulatory capital. This limit rises to 15% if the additional 5% is guaranteed by a mortgage, certain securities, equipment or other collateral, and to 20% if the additional amount is either backed by certain debt instruments guaranteed by other local banks or a foreign bank determined by the Central Bank to be of prime credit quality, or by other highly liquid securities at market value.  The single borrower lending limit for loans backed by a cash deposit at BCP or by debt obligations of the Central Bank is 30% of BCP’s regulatory capital.
 
With an unconsolidated regulatory capital of S/.5,457.1 million (US$1,888.3 million) on December 31, 2009, BCP’s legal lending limits varied from S/.545.7 million (US$188.8 million) to S/.2,728.6 million (US$944.1 million). Our consolidated lending limits, based on its regulatory capital on a consolidated basis of US$2,221.1 million on December 31, 2009, ranged from US$111.1 million to US$1,110.6 million. As of December 31, 2009, BCP was in compliance with Law 26702 lending limits.
 
As of December 31, 2009, we complied with the applicable legal lending limits in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.  These limits are calculated quarterly based upon our consolidated equity plus reserves for impaired loans not specifically identified at quarter-end.  A limited number of exceptions to our internal limits have been authorized by our board of directors based on the credit quality of the borrower, the term of the loan, and the amount and quality of collateral provided. We may, in appropriate and limited circumstances, increase or choose to exceed this limit.
 
We may experience an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations if (i) customers to which we have significant credit exposure are not able to satisfy their obligations to us, and any related collateral is not sufficient to cover these obligations, or (ii) a reclassification of one or more of these loans or other contingent credits results in an increase in provisions for loan losses.
 
Loan Portfolio Denomination
 
The following table presents our Nuevo Sol and foreign currency-denominated loan portfolio at the dates indicated:
 
   
At December 31,
   
2005
   
2006
 
2007
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
Total loan portfolio:
                             
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 1,032,481     20.76 %   US$ 1,503,306     25.58 %   US$ 2,461,787     30.08 %
Foreign Currency-denominated
  3,940,494     79.24 %   4,374,055     74.42 %   5,722,058     69.92 %
Total loans (1)
  US$ 4,972,975     100.00 %   US$ 5,877,361     100.00 %   US$ 8,183,845     100.00 %

   
At December 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Total loan portfolio:
                       
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 3,351,720     32.05 %   US$ 4,385,965     38.12 %
Foreign Currency-denominated
  7,104,564     67.95 %   7,119,354     61.88 %
Total loans (1)
  US$ 10,456,284     100.00 %   US$ 11,505,319     100.00 %

(1)
Net of unearned interest.
 
 
76

 

Maturity Composition of the Performing Loan Portfolio
 
The following table sets forth an analysis of our performing loan portfolio on December 31, 2009, by type and by time remaining to maturity. Loans are stated before deduction of the reserves for loan losses.
 
   
Maturing
   
   
Amount at
December 31,
2009
   
Within
3 months
   
After 3
months
but within
12 months
   
After 1 year
but within
3 years
   
After 3 years
but within
5 years
   
After
5 years
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
Loans
  US$ 8,986,884     US$ 2,476,635     US$ 2,159,197     US$ 1,456,366     US$ 922,486     US$ 1,972,200  
Leasing transactions
    1,997,562       398,187       651,697       609,942       286,742       50,994  
Discounted notes
    349,126       331,771       17,316       13       9       17  
Refinanced loans
    59,459       10,675       13,742       11,629       9,003       14,410  
Factoring
    163,443       140,530       22,913       -       -       -  
Advances and overdrafts
    47,147       47,147       -       -       -       -  
Total.
  US$ 11,603,621     US$ 3,404,945     US$ 2,864,865     US$ 2,077,950     US$ 1,218,240     US$ 2,037,621  
% of total performing loan portfolio
    100.00 %     29.34 %     24.69 %     17.91 %     10.50 %     17.56 %
 
Interest Rate Sensitivity of the Loan Portfolio
 
The following table sets forth the interest rate sensitivity of our loan portfolio on December 31, 2009, by currency and by the time remaining to maturity over one year:
 
   
Amount at 
December 31, 2009
   
Maturing After 1 year
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Variable Rate
           
Nuevo Sol-denominated
 
US$
624,400    
US$
595,639  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    991,712       637,874  
Total
    1,616,112       1,233,513  
                 
Fixed Rate (2)
               
Nuevo Sol-denominated
    3,761,565       1,211,264  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    6,127,642       2,889,032  
Total
    9,889,207       4,100,296  
                 
Total (1)
 
US$
11,505,319    
US$
5,333,809  

 
 
(1)
Net of unearned interest.
 
(2)
Most of the financial products with fixed rates can be switched to variable rates according to market conditions as specified on the contracts with clients.
 
 
 
Classification of the Loan Portfolio
 
We classify BCP’s loan portfolio (which includes the loan portfolio of BCB) and ASHC’s loan portfolio in accordance with SBS regulations.  According to SBS Resolution No. 808-2003, banks must classify all loans and other credits into one of four categories based upon the purpose of the loan.  These categories are commercial, micro-business, consumer and residential mortgage. Commercial loans are generally those that finance the production and sale of goods and services, including commercial leases, as well as credit card debt on cards held by business entities.  Micro-business loans, which are exclusively targeted for the production and sale of goods and services, are made to individuals or companies with no more than S/.300,000 in total loans received from the financial system (excluding mortgage loans). Consumer loans are generally loans granted to individuals, including credit card transactions, overdrafts on personal demand deposit accounts, leases, and financing goods or services not related to a business activity.  Residential mortgage loans are all loans to individuals for the purchase, construction, remodeling, subdivision or improvement of the individual’s home, in each case backed by a mortgage. Mortgage loans made to directors and employees of a company are also considered residential mortgage loans. Mortgage-backed loans are considered commercial loans. The classification of the loan determines the amount the bank is required to reserve should the borrower fail to make payments as they become due.

 
77

 

Regulations promulgated by the SBS also require Peruvian banks to classify all loans into one of five categories depending upon each loan’s degree of risk of nonpayment.  We review our loan portfolio on a continuing basis, while the SBS reviews our portfolio as it deems necessary or prudent. In compliance with SBS guidelines, we classify our loans based upon risk of nonpayment by assessing the following factors:  (i) the payment history of the particular loans, (ii) the history of our dealings with the borrower, (iii) the borrower’s management, (iv) the borrower’s operating history, (v) the borrower’s repayment capability, (vi) the borrower’s availability of funds, (vii) the status of any collateral or guarantee, (viii) the borrower’s financial statements, (iv) the general risk of the sector in which the borrower operates, (x) the borrower’s risk classification made by other financial institutions and (xi) other relevant factors. The classification of the loan determines the amount of the required loan loss provision.
 
The following table sets forth our loan portfolio by class at the date indicated.
 
  
 
At December 31,
 
  
 
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
  
 
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Commercial loans
 
US$
3,771,488
   
US$
4,390,547    
US$
6,055,206    
US$
7,808,671    
US$
8,283,790  
Consumer loans
    356,595       506,184       874,804       1,162,399       1,467,793  
Residential mortgage loans
    844,892       980,630       1,253,835       1,485,214       1,753,736  
Total performing loans (1)
 
US$
4,972,975    
US$
5,877,361    
US$
8,183,845    
US$
10,456,284    
US$
11,505,319  
 

(1)
Net of unearned interest.
 
We employ a range of policies and practices to mitigate credit risk. Our most traditional practice is taking security for fund advances. We implement guidelines on the acceptability of specific classes of collateral or credit risk mitigation. The principal collateral types for loans and advances are mortgages over residential properties, liens over business assets (such as premises, inventory and accounts receivable), and liens over financial instruments (such as debt securities and equities).
 
Long term finance and lending to corporate entities are generally secured, while revolving individual credit facilities are generally unsecured. In order to minimize credit loss, we seek additional collateral as soon as impairment indicators become apparent.
 
We determine the appropriate collateral to hold as security for financial assets (other than loans) according to the nature of the instrument.  Debt securities, treasury and other eligible bills are generally unsecured, with the exception of asset-backed securities and other similar instruments, which are secured by portfolios of financial instruments.
 
Our management monitors the market value of collateral, requests additional collateral in accordance with the underlying agreement, and monitors the market value of the additional collateral obtained during its review of the allowance for impairment losses.  Our policy is to dispose of repossessed properties in an orderly manner.  We use the proceeds to reduce or repay the outstanding claim. In general, we do not use repossessed properties for our own business.

 
78

 

We classify our loan portfolio into one of five risk categories, depending upon the degree of risk of non-payment of each debtor. These categories are: (i) normal, (ii) potential problems, (iii) substandard, (iv) doubtful and (v) loss.  The categories have the following characteristics:
 
Normal (Class A): Debtors with commercial loans in this category have complied on a timely basis with their obligations under the loan.  At the time of evaluation, there is no reason to doubt the debtor’s ability to repay interest and principal on the agreed dates, and there is no reason to believe that the status will change before the next evaluation.  Before we place a loan in Class A, we must have a clear understanding of the use of the funds and the origin of the cash flows to be used by the debtor to repay the loan.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class A when payments are current or up to eight days past due.  Residential mortgage loans are categorized as Class A when payments are current or up to 30 days past due.
 
Potential problems (Class B): Debtors with commercial loans in this category demonstrate certain deficiencies at the time of evaluation, which, if not corrected in a timely manner, imply risks regarding the recovery of the loan.  Common characteristics of loans or credits in this category include: (i) delays in loan payments which are promptly covered, (ii) a general lack of information required to analyze the credit, (iii) out-of-date financial information, (iv) temporary economic or financial imbalances on the part of the debtor which could affect its ability to repay the loan, (v) market conditions that could affect the economic sector in which the debtor is active. Consumer loans are categorized as Class B when payments are between nine and 30 days past due.  Residential mortgage loans are categorized as Class B when payments are between 31 and 90 days past due.
 
Substandard (Class C): Debtors with commercial loans in this category demonstrate serious financial weakness.  They often do not have sufficient operating results or available income to cover their financial obligations, and do not have reasonable short-term prospects for strengthening their financial capacity.  Debtors demonstrating the same deficiencies that warrant Class B classification will warrant Class C classification if those deficiencies are such that if not corrected in the near term, they could impede the recovery of principal and interest on the loan on the agreed-upon terms.  Commercial loans are classified in this category when payments are between 61 and 120 days past due. Consumer loans are categorized as Class C when payments are between 31 and 60 days past due. Residential mortgage loans are categorized as Class C when payments are between 91 and 120 days past due.
 
Doubtful (Class D): Debtors with commercial loans in this category demonstrate characteristics that make it doubtful that the loan will be recovered.  Although recovery is doubtful, if there is a reasonable possibility that the creditworthiness of the debtor might improve in the near future, it is appropriate to categorize the loan as Class D.  These loans are distinguished from Class E loans by the requirement that the debtor remain in operation, generate cash flow, and make payments on the loan, even if the payments are less than those required by the contract.  Commercial loans are categorized as Class D if payments are between 121 and 365 days past due. Consumer loans are categorized as Class D when payments are between 61 and 120 days past due.  Residential mortgage loans are categorized as Class D when payments are between 121 and 365 days past due.
 
Loss credits (Class E): Commercial loans or credits are categorized as Class E if the loans are considered unrecoverable or for any other reason the loans should not appear on our books as an asset based on the originally contracted terms.  Commercial loans are categorized as Class E when payments are more than 365 days past due.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class E when payments are more than 120 days past due. Residential mortgage loans are categorized as Class E when payments are more than 365 days past due.
 
We continually review our loan portfolio to assess the completion and accuracy of the grades awarded.
 
All loans considered impaired (those classified as substandard, doubtful or loss) are analyzed by management.  Management will address the impairment in two areas, individually assessed allowances and collectively assessed allowances, as follows:

 
79

 

Individually Assessed Allowance
 
We determine the appropriate allowances for each individually significant loan or advance on an individual basis. In determining the allowance, we consider items such as (i) the sustainability of the party’s business plan, (ii) its ability to improve performance once a financial difficulty has arisen, (iii) projected receipts and the expected dividend payout should bankruptcy ensue, (iv) the availability of other financial support and the potential realized value of collateral, and (v) the timing of the expected cash flows.  Impairment losses are evaluated at each reporting date, unless unforeseen circumstances require more attention.
 
Collectively Assessed Allowance
 
We assess allowances collectively for (i) losses on loans and advances that are not individually significant (including consumer and residential mortgages) and (ii) individually significant loans and advances where there is not yet objective evidence of individual impairment (the Class A and B loans). We evaluate allowances on each reporting date, and each portfolio receives a separate review.
 
Our collective assessment takes into account an impairment that is likely to be present in the portfolio even though there is no objective evidence of the impairment in an individual assessment.  We estimate impairment losses by considering the following information: (i) historical losses on the portfolio, (ii) current economic conditions, (iii) the approximate delay between the time a loss is likely to be incurred and the time it will be identified as requiring an individually assessed impairment allowance and (iv) expected receipts and recoveries once the impairment occurs.  Local management is responsible for deciding the appropriate length of time, which can extend as long as one year. The impairment allowance is then reviewed by credit management to ensure it aligns with our overall policy.
 
We assess financial guarantees and letters of credit in the same way we assess loans.
 
When the borrower is located in a country where there is an increased risk of difficulty servicing external debt, we assess the political and economic situation, and an additional country risk provision is provided.
 
When we determine a loan is uncollectible, it is written off against the provision for loan impairment.  We write off these loans after all necessary procedures are completed and the amount of the loss is determined. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off decrease the amount of the provision for loan impairment in our consolidated income statements.
 
The following table shows our direct loan portfolio at the dates indicated:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Level of Risk
                                   
Classification
 
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
 
A: Normal
 
US$
4,273,719       85.9 %  
US$
5,296,653       90.1 %  
US$
7,602,347       92.9 %
B: Potential Problems
 
US$
397,387       8.0 %  
US$
337,497       5.7 %  
US$
371,119       4.5 %
C: Substandard
 
US$
82,858       1.7 %  
US$
62,192       1.1 %  
US$
71,340       0.9 %
D: Doubtful
 
US$
146,898       3.0 %  
US$
122,215       2.1 %  
US$
88,540       1.1 %
E: Loss
 
US$
72,113       1.4 %  
US$
58,804       1.0 %  
US$
50,499       0.6 %
Total (1)
 
US$
4,972,975       100.0 %  
US$
5,877,361       100.0 %  
US$
8,183,845       100.0 %
C+D+E
 
US$
301,869       6.1 %  
US$
243,211       4.2 %  
US$
210,379       2.6 %
 
 
80

 
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Level of Risk
                       
Classification
 
Amount
   
% Total
   
Amount
   
% Total
 
A: Normal
 
US$
9,991,559       95.5 %  
US$
10,717,658       93.2 %
B: Potential Problems
 
US$
264,890       2.5 %  
US$
431,356       3.7 %
C: Substandard
 
US$
70,268       0.7 %  
US$
115,629       1.0 %
D: Doubtful
 
US$
79,394       0.8 %  
US$
139,389       1.2 %
E: Loss
 
US$
50,173       0.5 %  
US$
101,287       0.9 %
Total (1)
 
US$
10,456,284       100.0 %  
US$
11,505,319       100.0 %
C+D+E
 
US$
199,835       2.0 %  
US$
356,305       3.1 %
 

(1)
Net of unearned interest.
 
All of our Class E loans and substantially all of our Class D loans are past due. Class C loans, although generally not past due, have demonstrated credit deterioration such that management has serious doubts as to the ability of the borrower to comply with the loan repayment terms. The majority of our Class C loans are to companies in the Peruvian manufacturing sector and, to a lesser extent, the agricultural sector.  Our manufacturing sector loans are primarily secured by warrants and liens on goods or by mortgages, and our agricultural loans tend to be secured by trade bills and marketable securities. The Class C loans reflect the financial weakness of the individual borrower rather than any trend in the Peruvian manufacturing or agricultural industries in general.
 
Classification of the Loan Portfolio Based on the Borrower’s Payment Performance
 
We consider loans to be past due depending on their type. BCP considers loans past due for consumer mortgage, leasing loans, and loans to micro-businesses after 90 days.  On January 1, 2001, the SBS issued accounting rules that require Peruvian banks to consider overdrafts past due after 30 days.  ASHC considers all overdue loans past due, except for consumer loans, which are considered past due when the scheduled principal and/or interest payments are overdue for more than 90 days.  BCB considers loans past due after 30 days. For IFRS 7 disclosure requirements on past-due loans, see Note 29.1 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Interest income is suspended when the collection of loans is doubtful, such as when overdue by more than 90 days.  When a borrower or securities issuer defaults earlier than 90 days, the income is excluded from interest income until it is received.  Uncollected income on these loans is applied against income.  When management determines that the debtor’s financial condition has improved, we continue recording interest on an accrual basis. Therefore, we do not accrue interest on past-due loans, but interest on past-due loans is recognized only when and to the extent received.
 
Over the past five years, we have recognized interest income on these loans of US$5.5 million in 2005, US$4.8 million in 2006, US$3.6 million in 2007, US$5.2 million in 2008 and US$7.2 million in 2009. With the exception of discounted notes and overdrafts, accrued but unpaid interest is reversed for past-due loans.

 
81

 

The following table sets forth the repayment status of our loan portfolio as of the date indicated.
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Current
 
US$
4,877,206    
US$
5,800,591    
US$
8,122,357    
US$
10,373,417    
US$
11,320,752  
Past due:
                                       
Overdue 16 - 119 days
    10,860       20,655       20,825       34,955       70,602  
Overdue 120 days or more
    84,909       56,115       40,663       47,912       113,965  
Subtotal
 
US$
95,769    
US$
76,770    
US$
61,488    
US$
82,867    
US$
184,567  
Total loans
 
US$
4,972,975    
US$
5,877,361    
US$
8,183,845    
US$
10,456,284    
US$
11,505,319  
Past-due loan amounts as % of total loans
    1.93 %     1.31 %     0.75 %     0.79 %     1.60 %

With respect to consumer, mortgage and leasing loans, BCP (in accordance with SBS regulations) only recognizes payments as past-due installments if the loan is less than 90 days past due. The entire amount of the loans is considered past due if any amount is past due more than 90 days. For IFRS 7 disclosure requirements on past-due loans, see Note 29.1 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Past-Due Loan Portfolio
 
The following table analyzes our past-due loan portfolio by the type of loan at the dates indicated.
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
Past-due loan amounts:
 
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Loans
 
US$
63,889    
US$
57,345    
US$
48,088    
US$
65,947    
US$
153,112  
Discounted notes
    1,124       596       636       1,242       2,151  
Advances and overdrafts in demand deposits
    3,412       1,844       3,974       2,112       4,015  
Leasing transactions
    6,412       5,237       2,110       3,468       9,653  
Refinanced loans
    20,932       11,748       6,680       10,098       15,636  
Total past-due portfolio
 
US$
95,769    
US$
76,770    
US$
61,488    
US$
82,867    
US$
184,567  
Less: Reserves for loan losses (1)
 
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586    
US$
229,700    
US$
248,063    
US$
376,049  
Total past-due portfolio net of reserves
 
US$
(122,867 )  
US$
(133,816 )  
US$
(168,212 )  
US$
(165,196 )  
US$
(191,482 )

(1)
Includes reserves for indirect credits (see “—Loan Loss Reserves”).

We recognize interest on past-due loans and loans in legal collection when the loans are collected.  The interest income that would have been recorded for these credits in accordance with the terms of the original contract is approximately US$27.9 million and US$17.0 million as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 
82

 

Loan Loss Reserves
 
The following table shows the changes in our reserves for loan losses and movements at the dates indicated.
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Reserves for loan losses at the beginning of the year
 
US$
271,873    
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586     US$ 229,700     US$ 248,063  
Additional provisions (reversals)
    (6,356 )     (4,243 )     28,439       48,760       163,392  
Acquisitions and transfers
    (9,024 )     -       -       -       20,905  
Recoveries of write-offs
    35,032       44,284       34,084       31,279       23,928  
Write-offs
    (71,405 )     (49,859 )     (47,266 )     (59,308 )     (87,927 )
Monetary correction and other
    (1,484 )     1,768       3,857       (2,368 )     7,688  
Total reserves for loan losses at the end of the year
 
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586    
US$
229,700     US$ 248,063     US$ 376,049  

For a discussion of the risk elements in the loan portfolio and the factors considered in determining the amount of specific reserves, See “—Classification of the Loan Portfolio.” Also, as required by IFRS 7, the balance of the reserve for loan losses for the years 2007, 2008 and 2009 are included in Note 6(d) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Our reserves for loan losses, as of December 31, 2009, included US$354.4 million for credit losses and US$21.7 million for indirect or contingent credit losses (US$224.3 million and US$23.7 million as of December 31, 2008, respectively). Our reserves for indirect credit losses are included in the “Other liabilities” caption of our consolidated balance sheet (see Notes 6(d) and 11(a) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements).
 
The charge-off process is performed with prior approval of our board of directors and the SBS.  Potential charge-offs are considered by the board of directors and the SBS on a case-by-case basis.
 
We sell some of our fully provisioned past-due loans to wholly-owned subsidiaries (Soluciónes en Procesamiento) for a nominal amount with the same effect as if the loans had been charged off. Accordingly, we believe that our past-due loan amounts are not materially different from what they would be if we were permitted to charge-off loans prior to demonstrating the absolute non-collectability of the loan.  BCP also sells employees’ mortgage loans to its subsidiary Financiera de Crédito Solución.
 
Allocation of Loan Loss Reserves
 
The following table sets forth the amounts of our reserves for loan losses attributable to commercial, consumer and residential mortgage loans at the dates indicated (see also Note 6(d) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements):
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Commercial loans
  US$ 195,699    
US$
183,374    
US$
184,584    
US$
161,170    
US$
243,796  
Consumer loans
    14,409       17,959       30,662       56,061       90,782  
Residential mortgage loans
    8,528       9,253       14,454       30,832       41,471  
Total reserves
 
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586    
US$
229,700    
US$
248,063    
US$
376,049  
 
 
83

 
 
 
(iv)
Deposits
 
The following table presents the components of our deposit base at the dates indicated:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Demand deposits:
                 
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 1,457,155     US$ 1,735,869     US$ 1,944,404  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    2,507,346       3,136,408       2,612,342  
Total
  US$ 3,964,501     US$ 4,872,277     US$ 4,556,746  
Savings deposits:
                       
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 877,205     US$ 1,193,639     US$ 1,505,994  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    1,503,699       1,775,100       2,033,671  
Total
  US$ 2,380,904     US$ 2,968,739     US$ 3,539,665  
Time deposits:
                       
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 1,391,008     US$ 1,768,893     US$ 1,662,941  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    2,576,856       3,087,219       3,088,920  
Total
  US$ 3,967,864     US$ 4,856,112     US$ 4,751,861  
Foreign Currency Bank Certificates
                       
Foreign Currency-denominated
  US$ 90,119     US$ 140,013     US$ 120,932  
Severance Indemnity Deposits (CTS):
                       
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 149,308     US$ 229,716     US$ 256,761  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    746,975       810,171       812,745  
Total
  US$ 896,283     US$ 1,039,887     US$ 1,069,506  
Total deposits:
                       
Nuevo Sol-denominated
  US$ 3,874,676     US$ 4,928,117     US$ 5,370,100  
Foreign Currency-denominated
    7,424,995       8,948,911       8,668,610  
Total
  US$ 11,299,671     US$ 13,877,028     US$ 14,038,710  

The following table sets forth information regarding the maturity of our time deposits in denominations of US$100,000 or more on December 31, 2009:
 
   
At December 31, 2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Certificates of deposit:
     
Maturing within 30 days
 
US$
714  
Maturing after 30 but within 60 days
    2,165  
Maturing after 60 but within 90 days
    -  
Maturing after 90 but within 180 days
    5,146  
Maturing after 180 but within 360 days
    173  
Maturing after 360 days
    21,558  
Total certificates of deposits
 
US$
29,756  
Time deposits:
       
Maturing within 30 days
 
US$
2,397,794  
Maturing after 30 but within 60 days
    329,612  
Maturing after 60 but within 90 days
    232,021  
Maturing after 90 but within 180 days
    453,219  
Maturing after 180 but within 360 days
    381,610  
Maturing after 360 days
    234,768  
Total time deposits
    4,029,024  
Total
 
US$
4,058,780  
 
 
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(v)
Return on Equity and Assets
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
                   
Return on assets (1)
    2.29 %     1.86 %     2.19 %
 
                       
Return on equity (2)
    22.87 %     22.31 %     24.07 %
                         
Dividend payout ratio (3)
    34.11 %     33.44 %     28.81 %
                         
Equity to assets ratio (4)
    10.80 %     9.32 %     10.00 %
                         
Shareholders’ equity to assets ratio (5)
    9.95 %     8.71 %     9.31 %
 

(1)
Net income attributable to our equity holders as a percentage of average total assets, computed as the average of period beginning and period ending balances.
(2)
Net income attributable to our equity holders as a percentage of average net equity attributable to our equity holders, computed as the average of monthly balances.
(3)
Dividends declared per share divided by net income attributable to our equity holders per share.
(4)
Average equity attributable to our equity holders divided by average total assets, both averages computed as the average of month-ending balances.
(5)
Average equity attributable to our equity shareholders divided by average total assets, both averages computed as the average of month-ending balances.

 
 
(vi)
Short-Term Borrowing
 
Our short-term borrowing, other than deposits, amounted to US$878.2 million and US$601.5 million and US$673.2 million as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively. Our average balances of borrowed amounts decreased in 2008 due to receiving smaller promotional credit lines. As of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, no BCRP-Repo transactions exist in the outstanding balance.
 
The following table sets forth our short-term borrowing:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
                   
Year-end balance
    878,183       601,464       673,234  
                         
Average balance
    742,310       935,460       641,177  
                         
Maximum quarter-end balance
    1,105,704       1,197,637       1,141,131  
                         
Weighted-average nominal year-end interest rate
    4.70 %     4.47 %     2.83 %
                         
Weighted-average nominal interest rate
    4.72 %     4.22 %     3.40 %
 
 
(C)
Organizational Structure
 
Historically, the shareholders of BCP, ASHC and PPS have overlapped. Due to reasons related to the regulatory, political and economic environment in Peru, however, they have been managed independently from one another. We were formed in 1995 by the management of BCP of a potential exchange offer for the purpose of acquiring the common shares of BCP, ASHC and PPS.  In the exchange offer in October 1995, we acquired 90.1% of BCP (391,973,951 shares), 98.2% of ASHC (39,346,169 shares), and 75.8% of PPS (5,537,474 shares) in exchange for 60,815,152 of our common shares at a ratio of 0.10401, 0.33708 and 1.2249 of our common shares per common share of BCP, ASHC and PPS, respectively. Our common shares commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange immediately upon consummation of the exchange offer, with a closing price on that day of US$11.61 (adjusted to reflect stock dividends through May 1999).
 
 
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On March 19, 1996, pursuant to an exchange offer, we acquired the remaining 1.8% of the outstanding shares of ASHC (702,674 shares) in exchange for 237,859 of our common shares at a ratio of 0.33708 of our common shares per common share of ASHC.  The closing price of our common shares on the New York Stock Exchange on the date that exchange offer was completed was US$10.98 (adjusted to reflect stock dividends). See “Item 9. The Offer and Listing—(A) Offer and Listing Details—Price History of Credicorp’s Stock” and “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy.”
 
Our management consists of certain principal executive officers of BCP, ASHC and PPS. It believes that a unified financial group with a coordinated strategy is best able to take advantage of growth in the Peruvian economy and deregulation of the financial services sector as well as to achieve synergies from cross-selling financial services and products (e.g., through BCP’s extensive branch network). Through our subsidiaries, we are the largest Peruvian provider of financial services in Peru.
 
BCP began operations in 1889 as Banco Italiano and changed its name to Banco de Crédito del Perú in 1941.  BCP has been the largest commercial bank in Peru since the 1920s. Members of the Romero family have been shareholders of BCP since 1918 and became the controlling shareholders in 1979.  Mr. Dionisio Romero Seminario, who was our Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer, was a member of the Board of Directors of BCP from 1966 to 1987, becoming BCP’s Chairman in 1979. In response to former President Alan García’s attempt to nationalize the Peruvian banking industry in 1987, the majority shareholders of BCP, including Mr. Romero S., sold a controlling interest in BCP and transferred management to its employees.  The sale successfully prevented the government from gaining control of BCP. Upon the election of Alberto Fujimori as President of Peru in 1990 and the introduction of market reforms, the Romero family reestablished its holdings in BCP, and Mr. Romero S. and several former key managers returned to BCP. See “—(9) Peruvian Government and Economy—(i) Peruvian Government.” Members of the Romero family exchanged their BCP shares in the October 1995 exchange offer, and now hold 15.85% of our common shares. As of December 31, 2008, we hold 97.41% of BCP’s total shares. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—(A) Major Shareholders.”
 
ASHC was incorporated in the Cayman Islands in December 1981 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of BCP, under the name Crédito del Perú Holding Corporation or BCP International. It became the first Peruvian bank to establish an offshore banking presence to serve its Peruvian customers.  In 1983, BCP distributed its shares of BCP International to its shareholders as dividends to protect its privately held status in the event that BCP was nationalized.  BCP International established its first physical presence offshore (previously having been operated through BCP’s corporate offices) by opening an office in Panama in 1984, and opening an agency in Miami in 1986.  In 1986, BCP International changed its name to ASCH. As a result of the attempted expropriation by the government in 1987, ASHC’s operations and management were made independent of BCP. In 2002, ASHC closed its Miami agency at the same time that BCP opened its Miami agency. Also, Credicorp Securities was established in Miami as our wholly-owned subsidiary and began operating in early 2003 serviced by former ASHC personnel.
 
We own 75.98% of PPS, which was formed in 1992 as a result of the merger between El Pacífico Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A. and Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros Peruano-Suiza S.A. PPS is the second largest Peruvian insurance company in terms of premium sold and health fees. PPS’s major subsidiaries include Pacífico Vida, which specializes in life and pension fund insurance, and Pacífico Salud, which provides health insurance as an alternative to public social security.
 
We own 99.99% of Grupo Crédito S.A., which is the principal shareholder in Prima AFP. We also hold equity shares in Peruvian electric utilities and other non-financial companies.
 
BCB (formerly Banco Popular S.A., Bolivia) is a subsidiary that we acquired for US$6.2 million in November 1993. Since we transferred to BCP a 55.79% stake in November 2001, we have directly held 2.7% of BCB’s equity while holding the rest through BCP. In December 2002, BCP acquired BSCH-Perú, which was merged into BCP on February 28, 2003.
 
 
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In 2003, BCP converted BCOL, its offshore bank in the Bahamas, into an investment vehicle, and then sold it to ASHC. ASHC subsequently consolidated BCOL into its operations in 2004.  BCOL’s business, which is receiving offshore U.S. Dollar deposits and making U.S. Dollar-denominated loans to large Peruvian customers, was taken over by both BCP’s Panama branch and ASHC.
 
Solución was spun off into two companies. The first company retained only cash and equity. The second company became a wholly-owned subsidiary of BCP in March 2003 as a result of BCP’s acquisition of the remaining 45% of Solución’s equity interests.  Solución was merged into BCP’s Peruvian banking operations in March 2004.
 
Although the transaction had an effective date of January 1, 2005, in March 2005, we sold Banco Tequendama to a Colombian bank.  We did not record a material gain as a result of the sale. On December 31, 2004, Banco Tequendama had US$306.7 million in loans and US$290.5 million in deposits. We acquired Banco Tequendama in January 1997 from the Fondo de Garantía de Depósitos y Protección Bancaria, or FOGADE, the Venezuelan government entity responsible for the re-privatization of government-seized assets in connection with the widespread Venezuelan banking problems that began in 1994. We, along with FOGADE and FOGADE’s financial adviser, were sued in Aruba by the former owners of Banco Tequendama. The judge in Aruba dismissed the claim, and the plaintiff appealed.  In April 2004, the Court of Appeals in Aruba rejected all of the plaintiff’s claims.  The lawsuit followed a previous unsuccessful lawsuit brought by the former owners in Colombia.
 
On August 24, 2006, through our subsidiary Prima AFP, we acquired 99.97% of the capital stock of AFP Unión Vida S.A., a pension fund management company that operates in Peru, from Grupo Santander Perú S.A.  We also made a tender offer to the minority shareholders in order to acquire the remaining 0.03% of capital stock. The total purchase price was approximately US$141.5 million. At the September 6, 2006 general shareholder’s meeting of Prima AFP, the merger with AFP Unión Vida S.A. was approved, with an effective date of December 1, 2006.
 
In October 2009, through our subsidiary BCP, we acquired Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A., a financial entity specialized in micro lending.  As of December 31, 2009 we held 99.79% of the capital stock of Edyficar.
 
(D)
Property, Plants and Equipment
 
On December 31, 2009, we had 439 branches, of which 334 were branch offices of BCP in Peru. Our principal properties include the headquarters of BCP, at Calle Centenario 156, La Molina, Lima 12, Perú, and the headquarters of PPS at Juan de Arona 830, Lima, Perú.  There are no material encumbrances on any of our properties.
 
ITEM 4A.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 5.
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
 
(A)
Operating Results
 
 
(1)
Critical Accounting Policies
 
Foreign currency translation
 
Credicorp’s functional and presentation currency is the United States Dollar (U.S. Dollar or US$) because it reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances relevant to the Company. In addition, Credicorp’s main operations and transactions in the different countries where it operates are established and settled in U.S. Dollars.
 
 
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Financial statements of each of Credicorp’s subsidiaries are measured using the currency of the country in which each entity operates and converted into U.S. Dollars (functional and presentation currency) as follows:
 
-           Monetary assets and liabilities are converted at the free market exchange rate at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.
 
-           Non-monetary accounts are converted at the free market exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction.
 
-           Income and expenses, except for those related to non-monetary assets which are converted at the free market exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction, are converted monthly at the average monthly exchange rate.
 
All resulting conversion differences are recognized in the consolidated income statement.
 
Income and expense recognition from banking activities
 
Interest income and expense for all interest-bearing financial instruments, including those related to financial instruments classified as held for trading or designated at fair value through profit or loss, are recognized within “Interest and dividend income” and “Interest expense” in the consolidated income statement using the effective interest rate, which is the rate that discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the net carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability.
 
Interest income is suspended when collection of loans become doubtful, i.e. when loans are overdue more than 90 days or when the borrower or securities’ issuer defaults, if earlier than 90 days; such income is excluded from interest income until collected.  Uncollected income on such loans is provisioned. When management determines that the debtor’s financial condition has improved, the recording of interest thereon is reestablished on an accrual basis.
 
Interest income includes coupons earned on fixed income investment and trading securities and the accrued discount and premium on financial instruments.  Dividends are recognized as income when they are declared.
 
Fees and commission income are recognized on an accrual basis when earned.  Contingent credit fees for loans that are likely to be drawn down and other credit related fees are deferred (together with any direct incremental costs) and recognized as an adjustment to the effective interest rate on the loan.
 
All other revenues and expenses are recognized on an accrual basis.
 
Insurance activities
 
Insurance contracts are those contracts where we (the insurer) have accepted significant insurance risk from another party (the policyholder) by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain future event (the insured event) adversely affects the policyholder. This definition also includes reinsurance contracts that we hold.  As a general guideline, we determine whether it has significant insurance risk by comparing benefits paid with the benefits payable if the insured event does not occur. Insurance contracts can also transfer financial risk.
 
Once a contract has been classified as an insurance contract, it remains so for the remainder of its lifetime, even if the insurance risk reduces significantly during this period, unless all rights and obligations extinguish or expire. Investment contracts can, however, be reclassified as insurance contracts after inception if the insurance risk becomes significant.

 
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We also cede insurance risk in the normal course of business for all of our businesses. Reinsurance assets represent balances due from reinsurance companies. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the outstanding claims provision or settled claims associated with the reinsurer’s policies and are in accordance with the related reinsurance contract.
 
Reinsurance assets are reviewed for impairment at each reporting date or more frequently when an indication of impairment arises during the reporting year.  Impairment occurs when there is objective evidence resulting from an event that occurred after initial recognition of the reinsurance asset that we may not receive all outstanding amounts due under the terms of the contract and the event has a reliably measureable impact on the amounts that we can recover from the reinsurer.  The impairment loss is recorded in the consolidated income statement.
 
Gains or losses on buying reinsurance are recognized in the consolidated income statement immediately at the date of purchase and are not amortized.
 
Ceded reinsurance arrangements do not relieve us from our obligations to a policyholder.
 
When applicable, we also assume reinsurance risk in the normal course of business for non-life insurance contracts.  Premiums and claims on assumed reinsurance are recognized as revenue or expenses in the same manner as they would be if the reinsurance were considered direct business, taking into account the product classification of the reinsured business.
 
Reinsurance liabilities represent balances due to reinsurance companies.  Amounts payable are estimated in a manner consistent with the related reinsurance contract.
 
Financial Instruments: Initial recognition and subsequent measurement:
 
We classify our financial instruments in one of the categories defined by IAS 39:  financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss; loans and receivables; available-for-sale financial investments and other financial liabilities.  We determine the classification of our financial instruments at the initial recognition.
 
Classification of financial instruments at the initial recognition depends on the purpose and the intention for which the financial instruments were acquired as well as their characteristics.  All financial instruments are measured initially at their fair value plus any directly attributable incremental cost of acquisition or issue, except in the case of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded at fair value through profit or loss.
 
Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation or convention in the marketplace (regular way trades) are recognized on the trade date, i.e. the date that we commit to purchase or sell the asset.  Derivatives are recognized on a trade date basis.
 
 
(i)
Financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
 
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets held for trading and financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss, which such designation is upon initial recognition and in an instrument by instrument basis.   Derivatives are also categorized as held for trading unless they are designated as hedging instruments.
 
Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they are acquired for purposes of selling or repurchasing short term and are presented in the caption “Trading securities” of the consolidated statements of financial position.
 
Management may designate an instrument at fair value through profit or loss upon initial recognition so long as the following conditions are met:

 
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-           the designation eliminates or significantly reduces the inconsistent treatment that would otherwise arise from measuring assets or liabilities or recognizing gains or losses on them on a different basis; or
 
-           the assets and liabilities are part of a group of financial assets, financial liabilities or both which are managed and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy; or
 
-           the financial instrument contains one or more embedded derivatives, which significantly modify the cash flow that would otherwise be required by the contract.
 
Changes in fair value of designated financial assets through profit or loss are recorded in the consolidated income statement captioned “Net gain on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss”.  Interest earned or incurred is accrued in the consolidated income statement under the captions “Interest and dividend income” or “Interest expense”, respectively, according to the terms of the contract.  Dividend income is recorded once right to collect has been established.
 
 
(ii)
Loans and receivables
 
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market, other than: (1) those that the entity intend to sell immediately or in the short term, those that the entity upon initial recognition designates as available for sale; or (2) those for which the holder may not recover all or substantially all of its initial investment, other than credit deterioration.
 
After initial measurement, loans and receivables are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, less any allowances for impairment.  Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees and costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate.  The effective interest rate amortization is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Interest and dividend income”. Losses from impairment are recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Provision for loan losses”.
 
Direct loans are recorded when disbursement of funds to the clients are made.  Indirect (off-balance sheet) loans are recorded when documents supporting such facilities are issued.  Likewise, Credicorp considers as refinanced or restructured those loans that change their payment schedules due to difficulties in the debtor’s ability to repay the loan.
 
An allowance for loan losses is established if there is objective evidence that we will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms of the loan.  The allowance for loan losses is established based in an internal risk classification and in consideration of any guarantees and collaterals received, note 3(i) and 29.1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
(iii)
Available-for-sale financial investments
 
Available-for-sale financial investments are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale (to be held for an indefinite period, which may be sold in response to liquidity needs or changes in the interest rates, exchange rates or equity price); or are not classified as (a) financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, (b) held-to-maturity or (c) loans and receivables.
 
After the initial recognition, available-for-sale financial investments are measured at fair value plus unrealized gains or losses recognized as other comprehensive income in the available-for-sale reserve, net of its corresponding deferred tax and minority interest, until the investment is no longer recognized, at which time the cumulative gain or loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Net gain on sale of securities”, or determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Impairment loss on available–for–sale investments” and removed from the available-for-sale reserve.

 
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Interest and dividends earned are recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Interest and dividend income”.  Interest earned is reported as interest income using the effective interest rate and dividends earned are recognized when collection rights are established.
 
Estimated fair values are based primarily on quoted prices or, if quoted market prices are not available, discounted expected cash flows using market rates commensurate with the credit quality and maturity of the investment.
 
We may elect to reclassify these financial assets only in rare circumstances, such as when we are unable to sell the financial assets due to market inactivity and management’s intent to sell the assets in the foreseeable future has changed.  Reclassification to loans and receivables is permitted when the financial asset meets the definition of loans and receivables and has the intent and ability to hold these assets for the foreseeable future or until maturity.  The reclassification to held to maturity category is permitted only when the entity has the ability and intent to hold the financial asset until maturity.
 
As of December, 31, 2009 and 2008, we did not reclassify any of our available-for-sale financial investments.
 
 
(iv)
Other financial liabilities
 
After the initial measurement, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.  Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any issuance discount or premium and costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate.
 
De-recognition of financial assets and financial liabilities
 
Financial assets:
 
A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or a part of a group of similar financial assets) is not recognized when: (i) the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or (ii) we have transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a “pass-through” arrangement; and (iii) either we have transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or we have neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but have transferred control of the asset.
 
Financial liabilities:
 
A financial liability is not recognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires.  When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as un-recognized of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability, any resulting difference in the respective carrying amount is recognized as profit or loss.
 
Offsetting financial instruments:
 
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the consolidated statements of financial position when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and management has the intention to settle on a net basis, or realize the assets and settle the liability simultaneously.

 
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Impairment of financial assets:
 
We assess at each date of the consolidated statements of financial position date whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired.  A financial asset or a group of financial assets is deemed to be impaired if, and only if, there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (an incurred loss event) and such loss event, or events, have an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated.  Evidence of impairment may include indications that the borrower or a group of borrowers is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will go bankrupt or other legal financial reorganization process and where observable data indicate that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.  Criteria used for each category of financial assets are as follows:
 
 
(i)
Loans and receivables
 
For loans and receivables that are carried at amortized cost, we first assess whether objective evidence of impairment exists for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively, for financial assets that are not individually significant.  If we determine that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them for impairment.  Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is recognized, or continues to be recognized, are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.
 
If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future expected credit losses that have not yet been incurred).  The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement.  Interest income, if applicable, is accrued on the reduced carrying amount based on the original effective interest rate of the asset.  Loans, together with the associated allowance, are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realized or has been transferred to us.  If in a subsequent year the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or decreases because an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account.  If in the future a write-off is later recovered, the recovery is recognized in the consolidated income statements, as a credit to the caption “Provision for loan losses”.
 
The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.  If a loan has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate.  The calculation of the present value of the estimated future cash flows of a collateralized financial asset reflects the cash flows that may result from foreclosure less costs for obtaining and selling the collateral, whether or not foreclosure is probable.
 
For a collective evaluation impairment, financial assets are grouped considering our internal credit grading system, which considers credit risk characteristics; i.e. asset type, industry, geographical location, collateral type and past-due status.
 
Future cash flows from a group of financial assets that are collectively evaluated for impairment are estimated on the basis of historical loss experience for assets with similar credit risk characteristics to those in the group.  Historical loss experience is adjusted on the basis of current observable data to reflect the effects of current conditions that did not affect the years on which the historical loss experience is based and to remove the effects of conditions in the historical period that do not currently exists.  The methodology and assumptions used are reviewed regularly to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience.
 
 
(ii)
Available-for-sale financial investments
 
For available-for-sale financial investments, we assess, during each date of the consolidated statements of financial position, whether there is objective evidence that an investment or a group of investments is impaired.

 
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In the case of equity investments, objective evidence includes a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost.  “Significant” is evaluated against the original cost of the investment and “prolonged” against the period in which the fair value has been below its original cost.  Where there is evidence of impairment, the cumulative loss (measured as the difference between the acquisition cost and the current fair value, less any previously recognized impairment loss) is removed from available-for-sale reserve and recognized in the consolidated income statement.  Impairment losses on equity investments are not reversed through the consolidated income statement; increases in their fair value after impairment are recognized directly in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
 
In the case of debt instruments, impairment is assessed based on the same criteria as financial assets carried at amortized cost (loans and receivables).  However, the amount recorded for impairment is the cumulative loss measured as the difference between the amortized cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss that was previously recognized on that investment in the consolidated income statement.  Future interest income is based on the reduced carrying amount and is accrued using the interest rate that is used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose of measuring the impairment loss.  Interest income is recorded as part of “Interest and dividend income”.  If in a subsequent year, the fair value of a debt instrument increases and the increase can be objectively measured by using an event that occurred after the impairment loss was recognized in the consolidated income statement, the impairment loss is reversed through the consolidated income statement.
 
 
(iii)
Renegotiated loans
 
Where possible, we seek to refinance or restructure loans rather than to take possession of collateral.  This may involve extending the payment arrangements and the agreement of new loan conditions.  Once the terms have been renegotiated, the loan is no longer considered past due.  Management continuously reviews refinanced and restructured loans to ensure that all criteria are met and that future payments are likely to occur.  Renegotiated loans continue to be subject to an individual or collective impairment assessment, calculated using the loan’s original effective interest rate.
 
Goodwill:
 
Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition cost of a subsidiary over the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition.  Goodwill is tested annually for impairment to assess whether the carrying amount is fully recoverable.  An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.  Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for impairment testing purposes.
 
Impairment of non-financial assets:
 
We assess at each reporting date or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired, whether there is an indication that a non-financial asset may be impaired.  If any such indication exists, we estimate the asset’s recoverable amount.  Where the carrying amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset (or cash-generating unit) is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.
 
For non-financial assets, excluding goodwill, an assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there is any indication that previously recognized impairment losses may no longer exist or may have decreased.  If such indication exists, the recoverable amount is estimated.  A previously recognized impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized; if that is the case, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount.  Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed for subsequent increases in its recoverable amount in future periods.
 
Due from customers on acceptances:
 
Due from customers on acceptances corresponds to accounts receivable from customers for import and export transactions, whose obligations have been accepted by Credicorp.  The obligations that we must assume for such transactions are recorded as liabilities.

 
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Financial guarantees:
 
In the ordinary course of our business, Credicorp’s banking subsidiaries grant financial guarantees, such as letters of credit, guarantees and acceptances.  Financial guarantees are initially recognized at fair value (which is equivalent in that moment to the fee received), as “Other liabilities” in the consolidated statements of financial position.  Subsequent to initial recognition, our liability under each guarantee is measured as the higher of the amortized fee and the best estimate of expenditure required to settle any financial obligation arising as a result of the financial guarantee.
 
Any increase in the liability relating to a financial guarantee is included in the consolidated statement of income.  The fee received is recognized in the consolidated statement of income in the caption “Banking services commissions” on a straight line basis over the life of the granted financial guarantee.
 
Provisions:
 
Provisions are recognized when we have a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow or resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.  The expense relating to any provision is presented in the income statement net of any reimbursement.  If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.  Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as a finance cost.
 
Contingencies:
 
Contingent liabilities are not recognized in the consolidated financial statements.  They are disclosed in notes unless the possibility of an outflow of resources is remote.
 
Share-based payment transactions
 
(i)           Cash-settled transactions
 
As explained in note 18(a) to the Consolidated Financial Statements, until April 2008 we granted a supplementary remuneration plan to certain employees who had been employed at least one year with Credicorp or any of our Subsidiaries, in the form of stock appreciation rights (SARs) over a certain number of Credicorp shares.  SARs were granted at a fixed price and are exercisable at that price, allowing the employee to obtain a gain in cash (“cash-settled transaction”) arising from the difference between the fixed exercise price and the market price at the date the SARs are executed.
 
The SARs fair value is expensed over the period up to the vesting date, along with the corresponding liability. The liability is measured to fair value at each reporting date, up to and including the settlement date, with changes in fair value recognized in the “Salaries and employee benefits” line. When the price or term of the SARs are modified, any additional expense is also recorded. For more details about significant factors, assumptions and the methodology used in determining the fair value of SARs, see note 18 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
(ii)           Equity-settled transactions
 
As explain in note 18(b) to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as of April 2009, a new supplementary remuneration plan was implemented to replace the SAR plan (see (i) above).  The grant date was April 28, 2009, and the granted awards vest 33.3% every 12 months.
 
The cost of this equity-settled plan is recognized, together with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period in which the service conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the respective employees become fully entitled to the award (‘the vesting date”). The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions from each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and Credicorp’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest.

 
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The expense is recorded in the “Salaries and employees benefits” line of the consolidated income statement. When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognized in the “Salaries and employees benefits” line is the expense as if the terms had not been modified. An additional expense is recognized for any modification which increases the total fair value of the share-based payment arrangement, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification.
 
The dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards is reflected as a share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.
 
Derivative financial instruments:
 
Trading:
 
Part of transactions with derivatives, while providing effective economic hedges under Group’s risk management positions, do not qualify for hedge accounting under the specific rules of IAS 39 and are, therefore, treated as trading derivatives.
 
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position at cost and subsequently are re-measured at their fair value.  Fair values are estimated based on the market exchange and interest rates.  All derivatives are carried as assets when fair value is positive and as liabilities when fair value is negative.  Gain and losses for changes in their fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement.
 
Hedge:
 
We use derivative instruments to manage exposures to interest rate and foreign currency.  In order to manage particular risks, we apply hedge accounting for transactions which meet the specified criteria.
 
At inception of the hedge relationship, we formally document the relationship between the hedged item and the hedging instrument, including the nature of the risk, the objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge and the method that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging relationship.
 
Also, at the inception of the hedge relationship, a formal assessment is undertaken to ensure the hedging instrument is expected to be highly effective in offsetting the designated risk in the hedged item.  Hedges are formally assessed at each reporting date.  A hedge is regarded as highly effective if changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk during the period for which the hedge is designated is expected to offset in a range between 80 percent and 125 percent.
 
The accounting treatment is established according to the nature of the hedged item and compliance with the hedge criteria.
 
(i)           Cash flow hedges
 
The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognized directly as other comprehensive income in the cash flow hedge reserve, while any ineffective portion is recognized in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.
 
Amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to the consolidated income statement when the hedged transaction affects profit or loss, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognized or when a forecast sale occurs. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to the initial carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability.

 
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If the forecast transaction or firm commitment is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in the cash flow hedge reserve are transferred to the consolidated income statement. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, any cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in the cash flow hedge reserve remains in the cash flow hedge reserve until the forecast transaction or firm commitment affects profit or loss.
 
(ii)           Fair value hedges
 
The change in the fair value of an interest rate hedging derivative is recognized in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.  The change in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk hedged is recorded as a part of the carrying value of the hedged item and is also recognized in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.
 
For fair value hedges relating to consolidated items carried at amortized cost, the adjustment to carrying value is amortized through the consolidated income statement over the remaining maturity term. Effective interest rate amortization may begin as soon as an adjustment exists and shall begin no later than when the hedged item ceases to be adjusted for changes in its fair value attributable to the risk being hedged.
 
If the hedge item is no longer recognized, the unamortized fair value is recognized immediately in the consolidated income statement.
 
When an unrecognized firm commitment is designated as a hedged item, the subsequent cumulative change in the fair value of the firm commitment attributable to the hedged risk is recognized as an asset or liability with a corresponding gain or loss recognized in the consolidated income statement.
 
Embedded derivates:
 
Derivatives embedded in host contracts are accounted for as separate derivatives and recorded at fair value if their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contracts, and the host contracts are not held for trading or designated at fair value through profit or loss.
 
We have certificates indexed to the price of Credicorp Ltd. shares that will be settled in cash, and investments indexed to certain life insurance contracts liabilities, denominated “Unit-Link”.  We classified these instruments at inception as “Financial instruments at fair value though profit or loss”, see 3(f)(i), and note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Fiduciary activities, management of funds and pension funds:
 
We provide custody, trustee, investment management and advisory services to third parties that result in the holding of assets on their behalf.  These assets and income arising thereon are excluded from these consolidated financial statements, as they are not our assets.
 
Commissions generated for these activities are included in the caption “Other income” of the consolidated income statements.
 
 
(2)           Historical Discussion and Analysis
 
The Group monitors the results of its operating segments separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment.  Regarding the Group’s segments, total revenues from banking segment amounted to 74% or more of the Group’s total revenue in 2009, 2008, and 2007, therefore, the following historical discussion and analysis is presented principally for banking segment, except when otherwise indicated; and is based upon information contained in our Consolidated Financial Statements and should be read in conjunction therewith. The discussion in this section regarding interest rates is based on nominal interest rates.

 
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For a comparison of nominal interest rates with real interest rates, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information—(i) Average Balance Sheets and Income from Interest-Earning Assets—Real Average Interest Rates.”
 
The financial information and discussion and analysis presented below for 2007, 2008 and 2009 reflect the financial position and results of operations for 2007, 2008 and 2009 of our subsidiaries. See “Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data.”
 
On December 31, 2009, approximately 57.9% of our deposits and 60.1% of our loans were U.S. Dollar-denominated. Despite these high proportions, U.S. Dollar-denominated deposits and loans have decreased from the previous year (61.7% and 67.1%, respectively) due to a reduction in the rate of inflation. Nevertheless, we expect the majority of our deposits and loans to continue to be denominated in U.S. Dollars.
 
Results of Operations for the Three Years Ended December 31, 2009
 
The following table sets forth, for the years 2007, 2008 and 2009, the principal components of our net income:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest income
 
US$
1,065,339    
US$
1,382,844    
US$
1,312,925  
Interest expense
    (431,365 )     (561,617 )     (420,564 )
Net interest income
 
US$
633,974    
US$
821,227    
US$
892,361  
Provision for loan losses
    (28,439 )     (48,760 )     (163,392 )
Net interest income after Provision
 
US$
605,535    
US$
772,467    
US$
728,969  
Noninterest income
    522,937       592,564       720,631  
Insurance premiums earned net of claims on insurance activities
    58,672       51,993       138,224  
Other expenses
    (747,089 )     (920,603 )     (957,110 )
Merger costs
    -       -       -  
Income before translation result and income tax
 
US$
440,055    
US$
496,421    
US$
630,714  
Translation result (loss) gain
 
US$
34,627    
US$
( 17,650 )  
US$
12,222  
Income tax
    (102,287 )     (109,508 )     (138,500 )
Net income
 
US$
372,395    
US$
369,263    
US$
504,436  
Net income attributable to:
                       
Equity holders
    350,735       357,756       469,785  
Minority interests
    21,660       11,507       34,651  
Net income
 
US$
372,395    
US$
369,263    
US$
504,436  
 
Net income attributable to our equity holders increased from US$357.8 million in 2008 to US$469.8 million in 2009. Our net income increased from 2008 to 2009 due to the significant charges recorded during 2008, but not recorded during 2009, for approximately US$163.9 million (recorded as “other expenses”), which included (i) US$60.4 million to impair a deteriorated investment portfolio caused by declining stock prices, (ii) US$36.4 million for a provision by ASHC for potential losses and contingencies related to an ASHC-managed fund that had been invested with Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC, or Madoff Securities, on behalf of its clients, (iii) US$67.1 million of expense to hedge SAR Program. In addition increases the commission for loans, net gain on securities net of the provision for loan.

 
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Net income attributable to our equity holders increased from US$350.7 million in 2007 to US$357.8 million in 2008, which represented an increased of 2.0% from 2007 to 2008, despite of the charges recorded during 2008, which are explained in the paragraph below.
 
On the other hand, non interest income increased 21.6% in 2009 to US$720.6 million, primarily due to (i) a net gains from sales of securities of US$120.9 million, (ii) fees and commissions income from banking services of US$436.8 million, and (iii) net gains on foreign exchange transactions of US$87.9 million. Non interest income increased 13.3% in 2008 to US$592.6 million, which represented an increased of 13.3% not significant to the consolidated results of operations.
 
Net Interest Income
 
Net interest income represents the difference between interest income on interest-earning assets and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. The following table sets forth the components of net interest income:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest income:
                 
Loans
 
US$
701,471    
US$
963,940    
US$
1,062,046  
Deposits in banks
    58,896       37,352       13,731  
Deposits in Central Bank
    46,921       37,914       2,187  
Investment securities and others
    231,762       298,021       186,629  
Dividends
    8,870       12,189       9,715  
Gain from derivatives instruments and other interest income
    17,419       33,428       38,617  
Total interest income
 
US$
1,065,339    
US$
1,382,844    
US$
1,312,925  
                         
Interest expense:
                       
Saving deposits
 
US$
19,869    
US$
27,165    
US$
18,509  
Time deposits
    263,487       310,856       206,118  
Issued bonds
    33,592       51,756       66,993  
Borrowing from other financial institutions and others
    83,070       104,818       51,654  
Demand deposits
    25,123       38,085       21,414  
Loss from derivatives instruments and other interest expenses
    6,224       28,937       55,876  
Total interest expense
 
US$
431,365    
US$
561,617    
US$
420,564  
Net interest income
 
US$
633,974    
US$
821,227    
US$
892,361  

Our net interest income increased 8.7% in 2009 compared to 2008, and increased 29.5% in 2008 compared to 2007.
 
Interest Income: Interest income decreased 5.1% in 2009 compared to 2008, after increasing 29.8% in 2008 compared to 2007. The decrease in 2009 was primarily due to lower average volume in investments securities and others and loans. The decrease in investments securities was primarily due to a lower volume average throughout the year and lower rates. The increase in 2008 compared to 2007 was principally due to higher average volume in loans and investments available for sale.  The loan increase was mainly related to retail and corporate banking growth, while the investments securities increase was due to gains related to BCRP certificates of deposits.
 
Our average nominal interest rates earned on loans decreased to 9.9% in 2009 from 10.1% in 2008 and from 10.0% in 2007. The average nominal interest rate for foreign currency-denominated loans decreased from 8.6% in 2007 and 2008 to 7.7% in 2009, explained by fall in interest rates in the international market. Interest rates for Nuevo Sol-denominated loans decreased from 13.5% in 2007 to 13.4% in 2008 and further to 13.8% in 2009, which represented minor fluctuations in interest rates in Nuevo Sol for loans.

 
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The average balance of our foreign currency-denominated loan portfolio increased 4.2% to US$6,810.1 million in 2009, as compared to US$6,534.0 million in 2008.  In 2008, the average balance of our foreign currency-denominated loan portfolio increased 28.1% as compared to 2007, from US$5,101.4 million. The average balance of our Nuevo Sol-denominated loan portfolio increased 53.8% from US$1,942.3 million in 2007 to US$2,987.7 million in 2008, and by 30.3% to US$3,893.5 million in 2009. The average balance increased in 2009 respect to 2008, due to recovery of the Peruvian economy and Peruvian financial system after the international crisis, especially in the fourth quarter, however, our foreign currency-denominated loan portfolio increased at a lower rate due to the volatility in foreign currency during 2009.
 
On the other hand, the significant increase in 2008 was related primarily to the growth in the Peruvian economy (GDP growth rate of 9.8%) during that year (prior to the international crisis). In addition, in 2008 an increasing proportion of loans went to commerce, mortgage, manufacturing and financial intermediation sectors presenting higher risk, but these sectors also yielded higher margins. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information.”
 
Interest Expense: Interest expense decreased in 2009 by 25.1% as compared to 2008, and by 30.2% in 2008 as compared to 2007. The decrease in interest expense during 2009 was principally due to the lower interest rate in foreign currency and in Nuevo Sol. On the other hand, the higher interest expense in 2008 and 2007 was principally due to increases in the volume of deposits and variable market rates on deposits.
 
Average nominal interest rates paid on foreign currency-denominated deposits decreased from 2.8% in 2007 to 2.4% in 2008, and to 1.5% in 2009. Average nominal interest paid on Nuevo Sol-denominated deposits increased from 3.2% in 2007 to 3.5% in 2008, and decreased to 2.2% in 2009. This rate decrease was a commercial decision that followed the market trend of interest rates observed in 2009. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(8) Competition” and “—(12) Selected Statistical Information.”
 
Our average foreign currency-denominated deposits increased 13.1% to US$8,829.4 million in 2009 from US$7,803.5 million in 2008, and increased 8.1% from US$7,216.6 million in 2007. Our average Nuevo Sol-denominated deposits decreased 9.0% in 2009 to US$4,995.4 million from US$5,488.6 million in 2008, and increased 67.7% from US$3,272.1 million in 2007. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information.”
 
Net Interest Margin: Our net interest margin (net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets) was 4.7% in 2009 and did not change significantly compared to 2008 and 2007, when the margin stayed in 4.5% as in 2007 returns declined on interest-earning assets (mainly securities and Nuevo Sol-denominated loans) while funding costs remained relatively unchanged. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information.”
 
Provision for Loan Losses
 
We classify all of our loans and other credits by risk category. We establish our loan loss reserves based on criteria established by IAS 39 (see “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(12) Selected Statistical Information—(iii) Loan Portfolio—Classification of the Loan Portfolio”). We do not anticipate that the expansion of our loan portfolio or the consolidation of the activities of our subsidiaries will require a change in our reserve policy.

 
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The following table sets forth the changes in our reserve for loan losses:
 
   
Year ended December 31
 
   
2005
   
2006
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Reserves for loan losses at the beginning of the year
 
US$
271,873    
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586    
US$
229,700    
US$
248,063  
Additional provisions (reversals)
    (6,356 )     (4,243 )     28,439       48,760       163,392  
Acquisitions and sales
    (9,024 )     -       -       -       20,905  
Recoveries of write-offs
    35,032       44,284       34,084       31,279       23,928  
Write-offs
    (71,405 )     (49,859 )     (47,266 )     (59,308 )     (87,927 )
Monetary correction and other
    (1,484 )     1,768       3,857       (2,368 )     7,688  
Reserves for loan losses at the End of the year
 
US$
218,636    
US$
210,586    
US$
229,700    
US$
248,063    
US$
376,049  

We recorded US$163.4 million of loan loss provision in 2009, and US$48.8 million in 2008. Total write-offs amounted to US$87.9 million in 2009 and US$59.3 million in 2008. Total recoveries of write-offs reached US$23.9 million in 2009 and US$31.3 million in 2008, decreasing 23.5% in 2009. Provision expense in 2009 included US$5.6 million required by BCB (compared to US$7.5 million in 2008). Recoveries of previously charged-off accounts in 2009 amounted to US$23.9 million (compared to US$31.3 million in 2008). In 2008, the Peruvian financial system reached minimum delinquency levels in the loans portfolio, however, during 2009, as a result of recession (due to the international financial crisis) the ability of companies to repay loans was affected, and the delinquency levels increased. Provisions made in 2009 were mainly related to commercial loans. In 2008, the increased loan loss provision was not significant compared to 2007, and was mainly related to consumer loans.
 
The middle market and small business sectors continued to require a majority of the provisions made during 2009 and 2008. Provisions net of recoveries for middle market and small businesses were US$29.1 million in 2008 and US$13.4 million in 2007 (see also Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
 
Total reserves, which amounted to US$376.0 million in 2009, include the allowance for direct and indirect credits of approximately US$354.4 million and US$21.7 million, respectively.
 
Non-Interest Income
 
The following table reflects the components of our non-interest income:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Fees and commissions from banking services
 
US$
324,761    
US$
394,247    
US$
436,819  
Net gains from sales of securities
    46,376       51,936       120,932  
Net gains on foreign exchange transactions
    61,778       108,709       87,944  
Other income
    90,022       37,672       74,936  
Total non-interest income
 
US$
522,937    
US$
592,564    
US$
720,631  

Our non-interest income, without including net premiums earned, increased 21.6% to US$720.6 million in 2009 as compared to US$592.6 million in 2008, and increased 13.3% as compared to US$522.9 million in 2007. The revenue increase in 2009 was primarily due to an increase in gains from sales of securities and commissions from banking services, and a decrease in net gains on foreign exchange transactions.

 
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Fees and commissions income from banking services increased 10.8% to US$436.8 million in 2009 from US$394.2 million in 2008, following a 21.4% increase in 2008 from US$324.8 million in 2007. The increase in fees and commissions income from banking services in 2009 was primarily due to an increase in transfer and collections fees, increased commissions from credit/debit card services, increased in fees from trust services and improved property leasing service, while the increase in 2008 was due to growth in account maintenance, funds administration and commissions for collection, and the increase in 2007 was due to growth in account maintenance, money transfers and funds administration commissions for collections.
 
Net gains from sales of securities increased 132.8% to US$120.9 million in 2009 as compared to US$51.9 million in 2008, following an increase from US$46.4 million in 2007, which represented an increase of 12.0%. The increase in 2009 was primarily due to the increased volatility observed in capital markets, which caused the appreciation of stock prices in our investment portfolio.  The increase in 2008 was principally due to gain from market value fluctuation on sales of investments.
 
Net gains on foreign exchange transactions decreased 19.1% to US$87.9 million in 2009 as compared to US$108.7 million in 2008, following an increase of 75.9% from US$61.8 million in 2007. Net gains from foreign exchange transactions are not attributable to proprietary trading on our part. Higher gains in 2009 and 2008 were primarily due to the lower transaction volumes that resulted primarily from the decreased volatility in the foreign exchange market.
 
Other income increased 98.9% to US$74.9 million in 2009 as compared to US$37.7 million in 2008, after decreasing 58.2% from US$90.0 million in 2007. Other income principally consists of valuation of assets and liabilities designated at fair value, sales of seized assets, leasing income, recoveries of other accounts receivable and other assets and other income. The increase in other income in 2009 was primarily due to a proprietary position in indexed certificates issued by Citigroup and Calyon to mitigate the volatility in operating expenses caused by stock appreciation rights granted to our executives.  The indexed certificates are in the form of warrants issued by Citigroup and Calyon also are settled exclusively in cash.  These instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting.  Gains on these indexed certificates are reported as other income while losses are reported under operating expenses. See note 7(b) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Conversely, in 2008 compared to 2007, the decrease produced a loss resulting from the difference between cost and estimated market value of the certificates indexed to the performance of Credicorp Ltd. (BAP) shares in connection with the SAR program, which was included in other expenses and amounted to approximately US$67.1 million as of December 31, 2008.
 
Insurance Premiums and Claims on Insurance Activities
 
The following table reflects the premiums earned and claims incurred in connection with our insurance activities:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Net premiums earned
 
US$
297,272    
US$
393,903    
US$
424,682  
Net claims incurred
    (67,689 )     (101,890 )     (59,248 )
Increase in costs for future benefits for life and health policies
    (170,911 )     (240,020 )     (227,210 )
Total net premiums and claims
 
US$
58,672    
US$
51,993    
US$
138,224  

Net premiums increased 7.8% to US$424.7 million in 2009 from US$393.9 million in 2008. Gross premiums (including premium transfer and reserve adjustments) increased 3.6% to US$608.8 in 2009 from US$587.6 in 2008.

 
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Premiums for general insurance lines, which accounted for 49.1% of total  premiums, increased 0.7% in 2009, mainly by automobiles which represented 24% of general insurance premiums in 2009 (22% in 2008) and which increased 6.6% from 2008. Other property and casualty premiums, which represented 53% (57% in 2008), decreased 5.4% from 2008; and medical assistance which represented 20% (16% in 2008), increased 19.8% from 2008.

Premiums for general insurance lines, which accounted for 50.5% of total premiums, increased 23.5% in 2008, mainly due to automobiles which represented 22% of general insurance premiums in 2008 (15.3% in 2007) and which increased 80% from 2007. Other property and casualty premiums, which represented 56.8% (64.2% in 2007), increased 9.2% from 2007; and medical assistance which represented 16.4% (17.1% in 2007), increased 18.5% from 2007.  We also note the increase in premiums from the mandatory automobile line, SOAT, which represented 4.5% (3.4% in 2007) and increased 62.2% from 2007.

In the Life Insurance lines, Total Direct Premiums increased 5.9% as compared to 2008, with a market share of 27%. This growth is in line with the Life insurance industry average growth. All lines of business increased as compared to 2008 except Annuities and Pension.  This 5.9% increase in Total Direct Premiums was mainly due to a better performance in Life products which represented 26% of total premiums (23.7% in 2008) and closed 14.5% above 2008.  Group Life products increased premiums in 12% with as compared to 2008, and represented 18% of total premiums.  Credit Life increased 14.7% as compared to 2008 and represented 12% of total premiums.  The Pension fund products, which represented 17% of life insurance premiums (19.8% in 2008) decreased 9% as compared to 2008. Finally, the annuities line of business decreased 0.3% as compared to 2008.

Total direct premiums increased 31.8% as compared to 2007, mainly due to a better performance in the life products which represented 23.7% of life insurance premiums (23.7% in 2007) and which increased 31.3% from 2007. The Pension fund products, which represented 19.8% of life insurance premiums (19.6% in 2007), increased by 33% from 2007. In addition, credit life increased by 102% from 2007.
 
Health insurance lines (20.6% of total premiums in 2009) increased by 7.6% from 2008, primarily due to an 8.2% increase in Regular insurance premiums, representing 88.8% of health insurance premiums (88.2% in 2008).

Health insurance lines (19.8% of total premiums in 2008) increased by 27.4% from 2007, mainly due to a 28.2% increase in regular insurance premiums, representing 88.2% of health insurance premiums (87.7% in 2007).

During 2009, net claims on insurance activities decreased by 16.2% to US$286.5 million from US$341.9 million in 2008, mainly as a consequence of the business growth and the decrease in the net loss ratio on P&C, health and life businesses.

During 2008, net claims on insurance activities increased by 43.3% to US$341.9 million from US$238.6 million in 2007, mainly as a consequence of the business growth and the increase in the net loss ratio on P&C, health and life businesses

 
102

 
 
Other Expenses
 
The following table reflects the components of our other expenses:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Salaries and employee benefits
 
US$
409,037    
US$
365,201    
US$
467,116  
General and administrative
    206,966       269,291       312,256  
Depreciation and amortization
    51,013       57,369       71,099  
Provision for assets seized
    3,057       1,067       64  
Other
    77,016       227,675       106,575  
Total other expenses and merger costs
 
US$
747,089    
US$
920,603    
US$
957,110  

Personnel expenses increased 27.9% in 2009 as compared to 2008, after a 10.7% decrease in 2008 as compared to 2007. The number of our personnel increased to 20,148 employees in 2009 from 19,896 in 2008, and increased from 16,160 in 2007. Considering only BCP, the number of personnel increased to 16,748 employees in 2009 from 15,969 in 2008, and increased from 12,667 in 2007. The increase in other expenses during 2009 was due to significant increases in personnel expenses (salaries and employee benefits), and due to increase in depreciation and amortization expenses, principally for the acquisition of assets.
 
Our general and administrative expenses (which include taxes other than income taxes) increased 16.0% in 2009 compared to 2008, after increasing 30.1% compared to 2007. Higher expenses in 2008 were principally the result of increases in marketing expenses for ad campaigns and customer loyalty-building programs, system expenses such as licenses and projects, and transportation expenses. Higher expenses were also incurred in 2009 from increases in professional fees and system expenses such as licenses and projects.
 
Depreciation and Amortization increased 23.9% to US$71.1 million in 2009 from US$57.4 million in 2008. The increase in 2009 was primarily due to the acquisition of new buildings.
 
Provision for seized assets decreased 94.0% to US$0.1 million in 2009 from US$1.1 million in 2008. This decrease was due to higher rotation in seizing and sales of assets. The decrease in 2009 and 2008 of provisions is directly related to a higher volume of seized assets sales.
 
Other expenses decreased 53.2% to US$106.6 million in 2009, after an increase of 195.6% in 2008, compared to 2007. The increase in Other expenses during 2008 was primarily due to commissions in insurance (US$42.7 million in 2009 compared to US$39.4 million in 2008) and provision for diverse risks (US$14.4 million in 2009 compared to US$37.5 million in 2008), which primarily included a provision related to Bernard L. Madoff Investments Securities LLC of US$36.4 million as of December 31, 2008, net of the effect of the higher provisions in BCP Bank.
 
Translation Result
 
The translation result reflects exposure to devaluation of net monetary positions in Nuevo Soles. We recognized a US$12.2 million translation gain in 2009, US$17.7 million translation loss in 2008, and a US$34.6 million translation gain in 2007. In 2008, translation losses were primarily due to gains recorded from exposure to the Nuevo Sol which weakened against the U.S. Dollar.
 
Income Taxes
 
We are not subject to income taxes or taxes on capital gains, capital transfers or equity or estate duty under Bermuda law. However, some of our subsidiaries are subject to income tax and taxes on dividends paid to us, depending on the legislation of the jurisdictions in which they generate income.

 
103

 

Our Peruvian subsidiaries, including BCP, are subject to corporate taxation on income under Peruvian tax law. The statutory income tax rate payable in Peru since 2004 is 30% of taxable income, which includes the result of exposure to inflation. An additional 4.1% withholding tax is applied on dividends, which we register as income tax based on the liquid amount received from BCP and PPS.
 
Peruvian tax legislation is applicable to legal entities established in Peru, and on an individual (not consolidated) basis. Our non-Peruvian subsidiaries are not subject to taxation in Peru and their assets are not included in the calculation of the Peruvian extraordinary tax on net assets.
 
ASHC is not subject to taxation in Panama since its operations are undertaken offshore. The Cayman Islands currently have no income, corporation or capital gains tax and no estate, duty, inheritance or gift tax. Prior to 1995, there was no corporate income tax in Bolivia. Although there is corporate income tax in Bolivia, due to BCB’s ability to offset taxes paid other than income taxes from any income tax liability, no Bolivian income taxes have been payable.
 
Tax expense paid by the subsidiaries increased to US$138.5 million in 2009 from US$109.5 million in 2008, which increased from US$102.3 million in 2007. Income tax growth in these periods reflects increases in our taxable income. Since 1994, we have paid the Peruvian income tax at the statutory rate. The effective tax rates in 2007, 2008 and 2009 were 21.55%, 22.87%, and 21.54%, respectively.
 
 
 
(3)
Financial Condition
 
Total Assets
 
As of December 31, 2009, Credicorp had total assets of US$22.0 billion, increasing 5.8% compared to total assets of US$20.8 billion as of December 31, 2008, with cash and due from banks increasing 1.9% due to higher amounts maintained with BCRP in US$0.2 million, investments increasing 3.3% due to market volatility, and loans, net of provisions, increasing 8.8% due to corporate banking growth. From December 31, 2008 through December 31, 2009, the Peruvian financial system grew 0.6% in terms of total loans, comparing balances translated to U.S. Dollars, while GDP grew 0.9%.
 
Improved finances among companies and individuals were supported by a favorable economic environment during 2006, 2007 and 2008 which sustained increases in loan placements resulted in significant improvements in loan portfolio quality in those years (from 1.3% in 2006 to 0.8% in 2007 and further to 0.8% in 2008). Nevertheless the impact of the international crisis on the Peruvian economy caused a strong deceleration in the economic activity, slowing down loan growth and therefore, increasing the past-due loan ratio to 1.6%.
 
As of December 31, 2009, our total loans were US$11,585.6 million, which represented 52.6% of total assets, and net of reserves for loan losses, loans were US$11,231.3 million. As of December 31, 2008, our total loans were US$10,546.4 million, which represented 50.7% of total assets, and net of reserves for loan losses, loans were US$10,322.0 million. From December 31, 2008 to December 31, 2009 our total loans increased by 9.9%, and net of loan loss reserves increased by 8.8%.
 
Our total deposits with the Central Bank increased from US$2,107.6 million as of December 31, 2009 to US$1,953.0 million as of December 31, 2008. Our securities holdings (which include marketable securities and investments) increased 3.3% to US$5,150.4 million on December 31, 2009 from US$4,986.8 million on December 31, 2008. The securities portfolio increase in 2009 was primarily due to higher investments in corporate, leasing and subordinated bonds and Treasury bonds.
 
Total Liabilities
 
As of December 31, 2009, we had total liabilities of US$19.5 billion, a 2.6% increase from US$19.0 billion as of December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2009, we had total deposits of US$14,091.8 million, a 1.0% increase from US$13,950.4 million on December 31, 2008.

 
104

 

We have structured our funding strategy around maintaining a diversified deposit base. As of December 31, 2009, through BCP unconsolidated, we had 41.3% of total savings deposits in the Peruvian banking system, 40.5% of demand deposits and 34.2% of total deposits, the highest of any Peruvian bank in all three categories, according to the SBS. An important characteristic of our deposit base is that, as of December 31, 2009, it included 50.7% of the entire Peruvian banking system’s CTS deposits, decreasing from 51.9% as of December 31, 2008, according to our own estimates. We believe that we have traditionally attracted a high percentage of the savings and CTS deposit market because of our reputation as a sound institution, an extensive branch network and the quality of our service. The decrease is due to the fact that new financial institutions have taken a small market share from BCP for this type of deposit.
 
 
(B) 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Regulatory Capital and Capital Adequacy Ratios
 
   
As of December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except percentages)
 
Capital stock
 
US$
539,498    
US$
539,498    
US$
528,011  
Legal and other reserves
    587,218       770,216       1,053,494  
Capital stock, reserves and retained earnings of minority interest
    38,929       45,894       104,052  
Accepted provisions for loan losses
    82,261       104,635       114,104  
Subordinated debt
    294,648       278,688       683,222  
Total
    1,542,554       1,738,931       2,482,883  
Less: investment in multilateral organizations, banks and insurance companies and goodwill
    (122,387 )     (134,216 )     (261,749 )
Total Regulatory Capital (1)
    1,420,167       1,604,715       2,221,134  
                         
Financial Entities Capital Ratio
                       
Regulatory Capital attributable to Financial Entities (1)
    1,320,068       1,520,318       2,033,401  
Risk-Weighted Assets From Financial Entities (3)
    10,313,188       12,335,063       14,200,280  
Capital Ratio for Financial Entities (1) / (3)
    12.80 %     12.33 %     14.32 %
                         
Minimum Regulatory Capital Required (MRCR)(2)
                       
MRCR for Financial Entities (3)
    890,643       1,122,464       1,266,502  
MRCR for Insurance Entities (3)
    112,261       137,766       149,808  
MRCR for Other Entities (3)
    66,849       80,921       144,494  
Total Minimum Regulatory Capital Required
 
US$
1,069,753    
US$
1,341,151    
US$
1,560,804  
Regulatory capital as percentage of Minimum Regulatory Capital Required
    132.76 %     119.65 %     142.31 %
 

(1)
Total Regulatory Capital and Financial Entities Regulatory Capital is prepared under the guidelines of the BIS I Accord (by the Basel Committee) as adopted by the SBS.
 
(2)
The Minimum Regulatory Capital Required, or MRCR, is prepared under the guidelines of the BIS I Accord (by the Basel Committee) as adopted by the SBS, and must not exceed from the Total Regulatory Capital calculated. The consolidated MRCR is calculated by the addition of the MRCR of each one of the entities.
 
(3)
Peruvian financial entities (BCP, Credileasing and Solución) have a MRCR of 9.5% of the Risk-Weighted Assets (or RWA). For ASHC (Cayman Islands), the MRCR is 12% of the RWA. For BCB (Bolivia), the MRCR is 10% of the RWA. For the insurance companies, MRCR is calculated on the basis of the solvency margin, the guarantee funds and the credit risk. Other entities, with no MRCR, must be considered by the sum of the capital, reserves and retained earnings.
 
 
105

 

Liquidity Risk
 
We manage our assets and liabilities to ensure that we have sufficient liquidity to meet our present and future financial obligations and to be able to take advantage of appropriate business opportunities as they arise. Liquidity risk represents the potential for loss as a result of limitations on our ability to adjust future cash flows to meet the needs of depositors and borrowers and to fund operations on a timely and cost-effective basis. Financial obligations arise from withdrawals of deposits, repayment on maturity of purchased funds, extensions of loans or other forms of credit, and working capital needs.
 
The growth of our deposit base over the years has enabled us to significantly increase our lending activity. BCP is subject to SBS Resolution No. 472-2001, enacted in June 2001, which made its market risk area responsible for liquidity management, and by which minimum liquidity ratios were established. The ratio of liquid assets as a percentage of short-term liabilities, as strictly defined by the SBS, must exceed 8% for Nuevos Soles-based transactions, and 20% for foreign exchange-based transactions. BCP’s average daily ratios during the month of December 2009 were 33.96% and 59.55% for Nuevos Soles and foreign exchange-based transactions, respectively, demonstrating our continuing excess liquidity. We have never defaulted on any of our debt or been forced to reschedule any of our obligations. Even during the early 1980s, when the government of Peru and many Peruvian companies and banks were forced to restructure their debt as a result of the Latin American debt crisis and government restrictions, BCP and PPS complied with all of their payment obligations.
 
The capability of replacing interest-bearing deposits at their maturity is a key factor in determining liquidity requirements, as well as the exposure to interest and exchange rate risks. Our principal source of funding is customer deposits with BCP’s retail banking group and ASHC’s private banking group, and premiums and amounts earned on invested assets at PPS. We believe that funds from our deposit-taking operations generally will continue to meet our liquidity needs for the foreseeable future.
 
BCP’s retail banking group has developed a diversified and stable deposit base and its private banking group has developed a stable deposit base that, in each case, provides us with a low-cost source of funding. This deposit base has traditionally been one of our greatest strengths. The deposit gathering strategy has focused on products considered as BCP’s core deposits: demand deposits, savings, time deposits and CTS deposits. Other sources of funds and liquidity, which are mostly short- and long-term borrowings from correspondent banks and other financial institutions, issued bonds, and subordinated debt, are of a considerably lower significance compared to our core deposits. See Notes 12 and 13 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.

 
106

 

The following table presents our core deposits, other deposits and other sources of funds:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Core Deposits:
                 
Demand deposits   
 
US$
  3,964,501    
US$
 4,872,277    
US$
 4,556,746  
Savings deposits
    2,380,904       2,968,739       3,539,665  
Severance indemnity deposits
    896,283       1,039,887       1,069,506  
Total core deposits
 
US$
7,241,688    
US$
8,880,903    
US$
9,165,917  
                         
Other Deposits:
                       
Time deposits
    3,967,864       4,856,112       4,751,861  
Bank certificates
    90,119       140,013       120,932  
Total deposits
 
US$
11,299,671    
US$
13,877,028    
US$
14,038,710  
                         
Due to banks and correspondents
 
US$
2,314,418    
US$
2,316,594    
US$
2,251,541  
                         
Issued bonds
    694,982       777,390       1,273,731  
                         
Total sources of funds
 
US$
14,309,071    
US$
16,971,012    
US$
17,563,982  
Core deposits as a percent of total deposits
    64.1 %     64.0 %     65.3 %
Core deposits as a percent of total sources of liquid funds
    50.6 %     52.3 %     52.2 %
 
BCP is required to keep deposits with the Central Bank as legal reserves, determined as a percentage of the deposits and other liabilities owed to its clients. The requirement is currently approximately 6.0% of Nuevos Sole-denominated deposits and U.S. Dollar-denominated deposits, and an additional reserve requirement of 30% for the U.S. Dollar-denominated deposits. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(11) Supervision and Regulation—(ii) BCP—Central Bank Reserve Requirements.” Legal reserves are meant to ensure the availability of liquid funds to cover withdrawals of deposits. Additionally, we have significant investments of excess liquid funds in short-term Central Bank certificates of deposits.
 
The following table presents our deposits at the Central Bank and our investments in Central Bank certificates:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Funds at Central Bank
                 
Deposits
 
US$
1,798,581    
US$
1,952,952    
US$
2,107,635  
Certificates of deposits
    2,164,188       1,914,707       1,548,715  
BCRP-Repo Transactions
    242,817       294,235       0  
Total funds at Central Bank
 
US$
4,205,586    
US$
4,161,894    
US$
3,656,350  
Total funds at Central Bank of Perú as a percent of total deposits
    37.2 %     30.0 %     26.0 %
 
BCP at times has accessed Peru’s short-term interbank deposit market, although it is generally a lender in this market. The Central Bank’s discount window, which makes short-term loans to banks at premium rates, is also available as a short-term funding source, but has been used infrequently by BCP. ASHC also has the ability to borrow from correspondent banks on an overnight basis at rates tied to the federal funds rate as well as funding lines from international financial institutions.

 
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On December 31, 2009, we had uncommitted credit lines with various banks, including long-term facilities that are mainly used for project financing, of which no significant amount was drawn down. The long-term facilities include funding from COFIDE, Corporación Andina de Fomento (or CAF), syndicated loans, and other international lenders. The transactions relating to these credit lines include import and export transactions and average annual rates (including Libor) vary from 0.73% to 12.0%. As of December 31, 2009, we maintain US$1,812.2 million in such credit lines, secured by the collection of BCP (including its foreign branches) future inflows from electronic messages sent through the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) network and utilized within the network to instruct correspondent banks to make a payment of a certain amount to a beneficiary that is not a financial institution. These funds have maturities of up to seven years. See Note 13(a) and (b) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements. As of December 31, 2009, borrowed funds due to banks and correspondents amounted to US$2,256.6 million (includes US$1,089.2 million and US$1,167.4 million, respectively) as compared to US$2,330.7 million in 2008 (includes US$1,150.7 million and US$1,180.0 million, respectively) and US$2,323.7 million in 2007 (US$870 million and US$1,453 million, respectively).
 
In addition, mortgage loans may be funded by mortgage funding notes and, since 2001, mortgage bonds that are sold by BCP in the market. Mortgage funding notes are instruments sold by BCP with payment terms that are matched to the related mortgage loans, thereby reducing BCP’s exposure to interest rate fluctuations and inflation. Mortgage bonds are mainly U.S. Dollar-denominated and have been issued with ten-year terms, with collateral established by real estate acquired through funded home mortgage loans. As of December 31, 2009, BCP had US$10.5 million of outstanding mortgage bonds and notes (US$15.3 million in 2008 and US$20.7 million in 2007). A source of funds specific to leasing operations are leasing bonds issued by lease financing companies, the terms of which are specified in the Peruvian leasing regulations. As of December 31, 2009, BCP had US$188.3 million of outstanding leasing bonds (US$217.9 million in 2008 and US$167.3 million in 2007). These bonds have maturities of up to nine years and bear higher interest than 360-day time deposits (7.11% versus 5.96%). See Note 15 to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements for a detailed breakdown of our issued bonds.
 
The following table presents our issued bonds:

   
Years ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in millions)
 
Issued bonds
                 
Corporate bonds
 
US$
50.1    
US$
130.6    
US$
192.3  
Leasing bonds
    39.6       228.4       0.0  
Subordinated bonds
    5.0       0.0       113.8  
Subordinated debt
    161.3       0.0       250.0  
Total issuance
 
US$
256.0    
US$
359.0    
US$
556.1  
 
In November 2006 and October 2007, BCP, through its Panama branch, issued on the international market subordinated negotiable certificates notes in the aggregate amount of US$120.0 million due 2021 and US$161.3 million due 2022. These notes accrue at a fixed annual interest rate of 6.95% and 7.17%, respectively, for the first 10 years with interest payments every six months. After the first 10 years, the interest rate will change to a variable interest rate of Libor plus 2.79% and as established by the market interest rate of the Peruvian government-issued sovereign bonds maturing in 2037 plus 150 basis points, respectively, with quarterly and semi-annual payments. At the end of the first 10 years, the Bank may redeem 100% of the debt without penalty. These subordinated debt certificates include certain financial and operating covenants. In our management’s opinion, BCP is not in violation of any of these covenants as of the date of the consolidated balance sheet date.

 
108

 
 
In November 2009, BCP through its Panama branch issued Junior Subordinated Notes for US$250.0 million in the international market with principal maturity on 2069.  This debt accrues a fixed annual interest rate of 9.75 percent, for the first 10 years, with semiannual payments.  After the first ten (10) years, in November 2019, interest rate will become variable, Libor 3 months plus 816.7 basis points, with quarterly payments; at that date and on any interest payment date, BCP can redeem 100 percent of the notes, without penalties and after fulfilling certain requirements.
 
Interest payments are non-cumulative such that, if an interest payment is not made in full or cancelled as set forth due to BCP’s rights to cancel interest payments, a mandatory prohibitions established by SBS, or if determines that BCP is in non-compliance with applicable minimum regulatory capital; the unpaid interest will not accrue or be due and payable at any time and shall not constitute an acceleration event.  In those cases, BCP will not, and will not cause its majority owned subsidiaries to declare, pay or distribute a dividend for a period of time established since the interest payments are not cancelled. This debt does not have collateral and qualifies as Tier 1 capital for SBS regulations.
 
BCP Emisiones Latam 1 S.A. issued corporate bonds (Series A) for 2.7 million “Chilean Unidades de Fomento - UF”.  We can redeem 100 percent of the bonds only if the legal reserve funds legislation and tax law, related to income tax and value added tax, change in Peru, Panama or Chile.  This debt, subject to foreign exchange risk, has been hedged through CCS; as a result, these bonds were economically converted to US Dollars
 
Among the policies that we follow to ensure sufficient liquidity are the active management of interest rates and the active monitoring of market trends, in order to identify and provide for changes in the supply of deposits or the demand for loans.
 
The principal sources of funds for PPS’s insurance operations are premiums and amounts earned on invested assets. The major uses of these funds are the payment of policyholder claims, benefits and related expenses, reinsurance costs, commissions and other operating costs. In general, PPS’s insurance operations generate substantial cash flow because most premiums are received in advance of the time when claim payments are required. Positive operating cash flows, along with that portion of the investment portfolio that is held in cash and highly liquid securities, historically have met the liquidity requirements of PPS’s insurance operations.
 
 
(C)
Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(D)
Trend Information
 
We expect that 2010 will resume a positive economic trend; however, the international environment still suggests some uncertainty. In particular, we expect that financial income will increase, mainly as a result of prioritizing retail operations with individuals and small companies, as well as improving strategies followed in 2009. In addition, credit risk is expected to remain low despite planned positive loan evolution and higher provision due to higher volume of loan portfolio. Furthermore, we plan to invest mainly in systems in order to improve our bank’s network to serve clients and optimize processes.
 
Other important factors to consider are the pressure on consumer protection regulation and elections in local, regional and central government authorities, which could impact our business in Peru.
 
In Bolivia, we expect that BCB will maintain its profitability although the political and economic environment, which involves a high level of uncertainty, is an important factor in this expectation.
 
We expect that in 2010, ASHC will maintain its low-risk investment strategy and overall good performance as that achieved in 2009. We expect continued growth of the assets under management, given the high quality service we offer.

 
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In our insurance business, we expect to raise the profitability of each product sell in branches, especially in the retail business. The insurance business continues to grow and is supported by the continued decrease in loss ratio experienced in the industry.
 
 
(E)
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We record various contractual obligations as liabilities in our financial statements. We do not recognize other contractual arrangements, such as contingent credits contracts, as liabilities in our financial statements. These other contractual arrangements are required to be registered in off-balance sheet accounts. We enter into these off-balance sheet arrangements in the ordinary course of business in order to provide support to our clients and hedge some risks in our balance sheet and use guarantees, letters of credit, derivatives and swaps.
 
The following table reflects our off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Contingent Credits
                 
Guarantees and stand by letters
 
US$
1,133,476    
US$
1,506,506    
US$
2,108,761  
Import and export letters of credit
    431,049       249,396       419,374  
Sub Total
    1,564,525       1,755,902       2,528,135  
                         
Responsibilities under credit line agreements
    1,082,115       1,234,964       1,557,674  
Forward and options, net
    (331,117 )     627,600       (54,011 )
Swap contracts (notional amount)
    1,446,813       2,670,332       3,156,013  
                         
Total
 
US$
3,762,336    
US$
6,288,798    
US$
7,187,811  

In the normal course of its business, our banking subsidiaries are party to transactions with off-balance sheet risk. These transactions expose them to additional credit risks than those amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets.
 
Credit risk for off-balance sheet financial instruments is defined as the possibility of sustaining a loss because any other party to a financial instrument fails to perform in accordance with the terms of the contract. The exposures to losses are represented by the contractual amount specified in the related contracts. We apply the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as we do for on-balance sheet instruments (see note 6(a) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statement), including the requirement to obtain collateral when necessary. The collateral held varies, but may include deposits in financial institutions, securities or other assets. Many of the contingent transactions are expected to expire without any performance being required. Therefore the total committed amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.
 
Credicorp has currency-forwards derivatives. Currency-forwards are commitments to buy or sell currency at a future date at a contracted price. Risk arises from the possibility that the counterparty to the transaction will not perform as agreed and from the changes in the prices of the underlying currencies. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the nominal amounts for forward currency purchase and sale agreements were approximately US$2,614.4 million and US$2,478.2 million, respectively, which in general have maturities of less than a year.
 
These agreements are entered into to satisfy client requirements and are recognized in the consolidated financial statements at their fair value. As of December 31, 2009, the forward contracts net position is an overbuy of U.S. Dollars of approximately US$78.4 million (oversell of approximately US$627.6 million as of December 31, 2008).

 
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Interest rate and currency swaps are derivatives contracts, where counterparties exchange variable interest rates for fixed interest rates or different currencies, respectively, in the terms and conditions established at the contract inception. The risk arises each time the projected level of the variable rate during the term of the contract is higher than the swap rate, as well as from non-compliance with contractual terms by one of the parties. As of December 31, 2009, the notional amount of open interest rate and currency swap contracts was approximately US$2,597.1 million (approximately US$2,353.3 million as of December 31, 2008).
 
Cross-currency swap derivative contracts involve the exchange of interest payments based on two different currency principal balances and referenced interest rates. They generally also include the exchange of principal amounts at the start and/or end of the contract. As of December 31, 2009, the notional amount of cross-currency swap contracts were approximately US$558.9 million (approximately US$317.0 million as of December 31, 2008).
 
As of December 31, 2009, the fair values of the asset and liability forward-exchange contracts and interest rate and cross-currency swaps amounted approximately to US$97.3 million and US$167.8 million, respectively (approximately US$79.3 million and US$256.8 million as of December 31, 2008) and are included under the caption “Other assets and other liabilities” of the consolidated balance sheets, respectively. See Note 11(b) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Responsibilities under credit lines agreements include credit lines and other consumer loans facilities (credit card) and are cancelable upon notification to the client.
 
 
(F)
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
 
Credicorp enters into various contractual obligations that may require future cash payments. The following table summarizes our contractual obligations by remaining maturity as of December 31, 2009. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(1) Introduction – Review of 2009.”
 
         
Payments due by period
 
   
Total at
December 31,
2009
   
Less than
year
   
1years
   
3years
   
More than
years
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
Borrowed funds
 
US$
2,140,960    
US$
938,262    
US$
588,593    
US$
330,755    
US$
283,350  
Promotional credit lines
    81,550       4,819       16,291       12,590       47,850  
Interbank funds
    29,031       29,031                          
Time deposits
    4,751,861       4,519,104       147,135       82,088       3,534  
Operating lease obligations
    62,380       12,305       18,714       13,323       18,038  
Total
 
US$
7,065,782    
US$
5,503,521    
US$
770,733    
US$
438,756    
US$
352,772  

Borrowed funds include US$1,089.2 million secured by the collection of BCP’s (including its foreign branches) future inflows from electronic messages sent through the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications network and utilized within the network to instruct correspondent banks to make a payment of a certain amount to a beneficiary that is not a financial institution.
 
Borrowed funds also include US$410.0 million obtained from diverse international financial entities, with maturity due within three years and an interest rate of Libor plus 0.70% during the first year, Libor plus 0.75% during the second year and Libor plus 0.85% during the third year. The syndicated loan, subject to variable interest rate risk, has been hedged through interest rate swap operations for a notional amount of US$410.0 million with the same maturities.
 
Loans obtained include the obligation to comply with certain covenants which, in our management’s opinion, are being fulfilled at the consolidated balance sheet dates.

 
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BCP has signed an insurance policy with AMBAC Assurance Corporation, which guarantees the timely payment of scheduled principal and certain accrued interest of all of the 2006 and 2007 issuances.
 
Some of international funds include standard covenants related to financial ratios, use of funds and other administrative matters. In our management’s opinion, these covenants do not limit our operations and we have fully complied with them as of the consolidated balance sheet dates.
 
Promotional credit lines include standard covenants related to financial ratios, use of funds and other administrative matters. In our management’s opinion, these covenants do not limit our operations and we have fully complied with them as of the consolidated balance sheet dates.
 
Our deposits and obligations are widely diversified with no significant concentrations.
 
 
ITEM 6.
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
 
(A)
Directors and Senior Management
 
Board of Directors
 
The following table sets forth our current directors:
 
Name
 
Position
 
Years served as a Director(1)
Dionisio Romero Paoletti
 
Chairman
 
6
Raimundo Morales
 
Vice Chairman
 
2
Fernando Fort
 
Director
 
28
Reynaldo Llosa
 
Director
 
27
Juan Carlos Verme
 
Director
 
20
Luis Enrique Yarur
 
Director
 
14
Felipe Ortiz de Zevallos
 
Director
 
5
Germán Suárez
 
Director
 
5

(1)
Of Credicorp, our subsidiaries and their predecessors as of December 31, 2009.

Dionisio Romero Paoletti is the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. He is an economist from Brown University with a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Stanford University. Mr. Romero P. has served as a board member of Banco de Crédito since 2003 and was appointed Vice Chairman in 2008. Mr. Romero P. has also been the Chairman of Grupo Romero’s companies and has been Vice Chairman of the Board of Inversiones Centenario and Director of Cementos Pacasmayo since March 2005. Mr. Romero P. was appointed as Chairman of our Board and of the Board of Banco de Crédito in March 2009. He is the son of Mr. Dionisio Romero Seminario.
 
Raimundo Morales has been the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors since April 2008. Prior to being elected to the Board of Directors, he served as our Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of BCP, having joined BCP in 1980. Previously, Mr. Morales held various positions during his ten years at Wells Fargo Bank in its San Francisco, São Paulo, Caracas, Miami and Buenos Aires offices. His last position was Vice President for the Southern Region of Wells Fargo. From 1980 to 1987, Mr. Morales was Executive Vice President in charge of BCP’s wholesale banking group. From 1987 to 1990, he was the General Manager of ASB in Miami. He rejoined BCP as the General Manager in 1990. Mr. Morales received his Master’s degree in Finance from the Wharton School of Business in the United States.

 
112

 
 
Fernando Fort is a lawyer and partner at the law firm of Fort Bertorini Godoy Pollari & Carcelen Abogados S.A. Mr. Fort served as a director of Banco de Crédito del Perú from 1979 to 1987 and from March 1990 to the present. Since March 2009, he has served on our Board of Directors and on the board of directors of ASB, BCB and BCP’s subsidiaries. Mr. Fort also serves as a director on the Board of Inversiones Centenario and the boards of various other companies.
 
Reynaldo Llosa is a business manager and since August 1995 has been a director on our board of directors and on the boards of ASB, BCB and BCP’s subsidiaries. He has also been a director of BCP from 1980 to October 1987 and from March 1990 to the present. Mr. Llosa is the main partner and general manager of F.N. Jones S.R. Ltda. and serves as a Director on the boards of various other companies.
 
Juan Carlos Verme is a businessman and has served on the Board of Directors since August 1995. He has served on the board directors of BCP since March 1990 and is also on the board of directors of ASB, BCB and BCP’s subsidiaries. Mr. Verme is Chairman of Inversiones Centenario and also serves as a director on the boards of various other companies. He is a director of the Asamblea General de Asociados del Patronato del Museo de Arte de Lima.
 
Luis Enrique Yarur is a businessman with an undergraduate degree in law and graduate degrees in economics and management. He has served on the Board of Directors since October 2002 as well as the board of directors of BCP since February 1995. Mr. Yarur is Chairman of the Board of Empresas Juan Yarur S. A. C., Banco de Crédito e Inversiones, of Chile, and member of the boards of various other Chilean companies. He is Vice-President of the Asociación de Bancos e Instituciones Financieras A. G., a member of the International Advisory Board IESE, España and director of the Bolsa de Comercio de Santiago.
 
Felipe Ortiz de Zevallos is an industrial engineer with a Master’s degree in Management Science  from Rochester University and a degree in Management from Harvard Business School. Mr. Ortiz de Zevallos has served on the Board of Directors since March 2005. He also serves as a director on the boards of various other companies, among which are Grupo Apoyo (where he is the Chairman), Compañía de Minas Buenaventura S.A. and Universia. From September 2006 until March 2009, Felipe Ortiz de Zevallos was Peru’s Ambassador to the United States. Prior to becoming Peru’s Ambassador to the United States, Mr. Zevallos served as the President of Universidad del Pacífico in Lima (elected for the period 2004-2009).
 
Germán Suárez is an economist with a Master’s degree in Economics from Columbia University. Mr. Suárez was elected to the Board of Directors in March 2005. Mr. Suárez was President and Chairman of the Board of Banco Central de Reserva del Perú from 1992 to 2001, and serves as a director on the boards of various other companies, including Compañía de Minas Buenaventura S.A.
 
Dawna L. Ferguson is Credicorp’s Secretary. Fernando Palao was our Assistant Secretary until December 31, 2009 and Mario Ferrari was appointed as the new Assistant Secretary. Credicorp’s resident representative in Bermuda is Nicholas G. Trollope.

 
113

 
 
Executive Officers
 
Pursuant to Credicorp’s bye-laws, the Board of Directors has the power to delegate its power over day-to-day management to one or more directors, officers, employees or agents. The following table sets forth information concerning our principal executive officers.
 
Name
 
Position
 
Years Served as
an Officer(1)
Dionisio Romero P.
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
1
Walter Bayly
 
General Manager
 
17
Alvaro Correa
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
13
David Saettone
 
Chief Insurance Officer
 
12
 

 
(1)
Of Credicorp, our subsidiaries and their predecessors as of December 31, 2009.
 
Walter Bayly was named General Manager of Credicorp and BCP in October 2007, effective April 2008. Since April 2004, he was Chief Financial Officer and the Executive Vice President of Planning and Finance of BCP. Previously, Mr. Bayly held various other management positions within BCP, which included managing the Wholesale Banking Group as well as other areas of BCP. Mr. Bayly joined BCP in 1993, after three years at Casa Bolsa México where he was Partner and Managing Director in Corporate Finance. Prior to that, he was with Citibank in Lima, New York, México, and Caracas for a period of ten years, where he worked primarily in the corporate finance and loan syndication groups. Mr. Bayly received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Universidad del Pacífico in Lima, Peru, and a Master’s degree in Management from Arthur D. Little Management in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
 
Alvaro Correa was named Chief Financial Officer and the Executive Vice President of Planning and Finance of BCP in October 2007, effective April 2008. Mr. Correa is an industrial engineer from the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú. He also holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Harvard Business School. In 1997, he joined BCP as Retail Risk Manager, later serving as IT Solution Manager under the Systems and Organization Division. During the last three years, Mr. Correa served as General Manager of ASB, Credicorp Securities and BCP’s Miami agency.
 
David Saettone is Chief Insurance Officer and the Chief Executive Officer of PPS. He is an economist with a Master’s degree and Ph.D from Princeton University. He was the General Manager of BCB and Chief of the Gabinete de Asesores y Unidad de Coordinación de Préstamos Sectoriales of the Economy and Finance Office, Perú. Mr. Saettone was also Manager of the BCP’s corporate finance area.
 
 
(B)
Compensation
 
The aggregate amount of compensation paid to all directors and executive officers (including our executive officers listed above and four additional executive officers of BCP) for 2009 was US$12.6 million. We do not disclose to our shareholders or otherwise make available to the public information as to the compensation of its individual directors or executive officers.
 
As indicated in note 3(w) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements, Credicorp has granted stock appreciation rights (SARs) to certain key executives and employees who have at least one year service to Credicorp or any of our subsidiaries. At the grant date and in each one of the subsequent three years, the granted SARs may be exercised up to 25% of all SARs granted in the plan. The SARs expire after eight years.

 
114

 
 
The number of outstanding SARs and its exercise price are as follows:
 
Year
 
Number of Outstanding SARs granted
   
Exercise price in US$
 
2002
    52,500       5.98  
2003
    96,900       7.17  
2004
    118,750       9.99  
2005
    155,000       15.00  
2006
    226,250       24.32  
2007
    235,785       24.32  
2008
    262,278       24.32  
 
Credicorp assumes the payment of the related income tax on behalf of our executives and employees, which corresponds to 30% of the benefit. Credicorp estimates this income tax over the basis of the liability recorded for the vested benefits.
 
The liabilities recorded for this plan, including the above-mentioned income tax, are included in the consolidated balance sheet caption “Other liabilities – Payroll taxes, salaries and other personnel expenses.” See Note 11(a) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements. The expenses are recorded in the consolidated income statement caption “Personnel expenses.”
 
During 2007, 2008 and 2009, Credicorp signed several contracts with Citigroup by which it acquired certificates linked to the yield of our shares See Note 7(b) to the Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
The following table sets forth the movement of the SARs for the periods indicated:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Outstanding
SARs
   
Vested SARs
   
Outstanding
SARs
   
Vested SARs
 
   
Number
   
Number
   
Amount
   
Number
   
Number
   
Amount
 
               
US$(000)
               
US$(000)
 
Balance as of January 1st
    2,215,225       1,617,818       42,987       2,134,650       1,537,119       89,602  
SAR´s modification
    (451,143)       (451,143)       -       -       -       -  
Granted and vested
    -       366,845       19,333       665,500       576,874       9,498  
Exercised
    (495,244)       (495,244)       (17,761)       (496,175)       (496,175)       (19,734)  
Decrease
    (121,375)       -       -       (88,750)       -       -  
Increase in the option fair value
    -       -       15,929       -       -       (36,379)  
Balance as of December 31
    1,147,463       1,038,276       60,488       2,215,225       1,617,818       42,987  

 
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The following table sets forth the number of SARs vested and the price of such SARs for the periods indicated:

Year of
Insurance
 
Number
of outstanding SARs
as of 
December 31, 2009
   
Number of Vested SARs
as of December 31
   
Exercise price
 
         
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                     
 
   
 
 
2001
    -       -       60,000      
US$ 4.30
     
US$ 4.80
 
2002
    52,500       52,500       60,000       5.98       6.48  
2003
    96,900       96,900       134,900       7.17       7.67  
2004
    118,750       118,750       185,950       9.99       10.49  
2005
    155,000       155,000       241,700       15.00       15.50  
2006
    226,250       226,250       327,784       24.32       24.82  
2007
    235,785       214,831       320,859       24.32       48.00  
2008
    262,278       174,045       286,625       24.32       72.04  
      1,147,463       1,038,276       1,617,818                  
 
On April, 2009, Credicorp implemented a new share base payment plan for certain key executives and employees. Under the new plan, Credicorp shares will be granted to certain key executives and employees who have at least one year of service to Credicorp or any of our subsidiaries.  Beginning on April 28, 2009, and in each of the subsequent three years thereafter, granted shares will be vested up to 33.3% of all granted shares.  Credicorp also determined that SARs granted until December 2008 under the prior SARs program (as explained above) will remain in force, with certain modifications, until they expire.
 
 
(C)
Board Practices
 
Credicorp’s management is the responsibility of its Board of Directors, which, pursuant to Credicorp’s bye-laws, is comprised of eight members. Directors need not be shareholders. Directors are elected and their remuneration is determined at Annual General Shareholders’ Meetings. Directors hold office for three-year terms. The date of expiration of our current Board of Directors is March 31, 2011. Our current directors have no benefits in addition to the remuneration agreed at the Annual General Shareholders’ Meetings. They also do not have any benefits that could be enjoyed at the termination of their service terms.
 
Pursuant to Credicorp’s bye-laws, the required quorum for business to take place during a Board meeting shall be a majority of the Directors of the Company. The Board has the power to appoint any person as Director to fill a vacancy on the Board for the remainder of the period as a result of the death, disability, disqualification or resignation of any Director. A resolution in writing signed by all Directors shall be as valid as if had been passed at a meeting duly called and constituted
 
Credicorp’s audit committee is responsible for assisting in the recommendation of independent auditors to be appointed at the Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting and reviewing the scope of internal and external audits. The Audit Committee also reviews compliance with internal control systems, reviews our annual and quarterly financial statements before their presentation to regulatory bodies and maintains the integrity of the preparation of audits. The current members of the Audit Committee are Mr. Reynaldo Llosa (Chairman) and Mr. Germán Suárez (financial expert), who designated Mr. Benedicto Cigüeñas as advisor.
 
The Audit Committee has also been assigned by the Board of Directors to oversee the internal audit departments at all its subsidiaries.

 
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(D)
Employees
 
On December 31, 2009, Credicorp had 20,148 full time employees, distributed as set forth in the following table:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(Full-time employees)
 
BCP
    9,593       11,654       16,748  
PPS
    1,665       2,306       2,567  
ASHC
    65       73       74  
Prima AFP
    1,464       1,015       750  
Others
    350       430       9  
Total Credicorp
    13,137       15,478       20,148  

All bank employees in Peru are given the option of belonging to an employee union. These employee unions are collectively represented by the Federación de Empleados Bancarios (the Federation of Banking Employees or FEB). In order to negotiate a collective agreement on behalf of its members, FEB must have as members over 50% of all Peruvian banking employees. Because the representation of banking employees members of FEB declined to below 50%, the most recent collective bargaining agreement, which expired on June 30, 1995, was not renewed.
 
BCP was granted permission by the Peruvian Ministry of Labor to cancel the registration of BCP’s union in 1996 due to limited participation. As of December 31, 2009, no BCP employees belonged to a union. The last strike by union employees occurred in 1991 and did not interfere with BCP’s operations.
 
 
(E)
Share Ownership
 
As of February 5, 2010, the Romero family owned 14.17 million (15.01%) of our common shares. While Mr. Luis Enrique Yarur does not individually own in excess of 1% of Credicorp's shares, he is a controlling shareholder of Banco de Chile e Inversiones (BCI), which owns 1.67 million ( 1.77%) of Credicorp’s common shares. None of our other directors or executive officers beneficially own more than 1% of our common shares. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—(A) Major Shareholders.” Other members of the Board of Directors that own our common shares are Mr. Raimundo Morales, Mr. Fernando Fort, Mr. Reynaldo Llosa, Mr. Juan Carlos Verme, Mr. Felipe Ortiz de Zevallos and Mr. Germán Suárez. Each of these directors own less than 1% of our total outstanding common shares.
 
 
ITEM 7.
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
(A)
Major Shareholders
 
As of December 31, 2009, Credicorp had issued 94,382,317 common shares, of which 14,620,845 were held by ASHC. Under Bermuda law, ASHC has the right to vote the common shares it owns. In order to restructure long term holdings, substantially all of our common shares held by BCP and PPS were transferred to ASHC in April 2004.

 
117

 
 
The table below provides details about the percentage of Credicorp’s common shares owned by holders of 5% or more of our total common shares, as of February 5, 2010.
 
Owner
 
Common Shares
   
Percent of Class(1)
 
Atlantic Security Holding Corporation (2)
    14,620,845       15.49%  
Romero family (3)
    14,167,331       15.01%  
AFP Integra
    6,635,516       7.03%  
Prima AFP
    5,657,373       5.99%  

(1)  As a percentage of issued and outstanding shares (including shares held by ASHC).

(2)  As of February 5, 2010, Atlantic Security Bank (a subsidiary of ASHC) held 4,398,289 shares of Credicorp on behalf of clients as part of the Private Banking Services that ASB provides, and which shares are purchased or sold based on client instruction. Clients can decide at any time to exercise their voting power in any Shareholders’ Meeting.  ASB does not have the power to dispose of these shares.  Because the shares are held by ASB on behalf of clients, which have the power to vote the shares, ASHC disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares

(3)  Includes common shares directly or indirectly owned by Dionisio Romero Paoletti and his family or companies owned or controlled by him. Mr. Romero P. is the Chairman of the Board.

Approximately 18.19% of Credicorp’s total issued and outstanding common shares are currently held in 2,774 individual accounts with Cavali, a Peruvian securities clearing company.
 
As of February 5, 2010, 79,761,472 of common shares of Credicorp (excluding the 14,620,845 shares held by ASHC) were outstanding, of which approximately 64.48% were held in the United States. There were approximately 78 registered holders of Credicorp’s common shares in the United States. Because many of these common shares were held by brokers or other nominees, and because of the impracticability of obtaining accurate residence information for all beneficial shareholders, the number of registered holders in the United States is not a representative figure of the beneficial holders or of the residence of beneficial holders. Credicorp is neither directly nor indirectly controlled by another corporation or by any foreign government.
 
 
(B)
Related Party Transactions
 
(i)
Credicorp
 
Under Bermuda law, Credicorp is not subject to any restrictions on transactions with affiliates, other than such restrictions as are applicable to Bermuda companies generally. Credicorp’s bye-laws provide that a director may not vote with respect to any contract or proposed contract or arrangement in which that director has an interest or a conflict of interest. Credicorp has not engaged in any transactions with related parties except through our subsidiaries.
 
Credicorp’s consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 include transactions with related parties. For its 2007, 2008 and 2009 consolidated financial statements, Credicorp defines related parties as (i) related companies, (ii) its Board of Directors, (iii) its key executives (defined as the management of our holdings) and (iv) enterprises that are controlled by these individuals or entities through majority shareholding or their role as chairman or principal executive officer in those companies.

 
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The following table shows Credicorp’s main transactions with related companies as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
 
   
Related companies
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
         
(U.S. Dollars in
thousands)
       
                   
Direct loans
 
US$
94,102    
US$
143,855    
US$
214,182  
Investments available-for-sale
    90,396       63,782       92,747  
Deposits
    31,689       34,669       82,051  
Contingent credits
    14,026       23,574       20,122  
Interest income related to loans
    2,288       2,889       4,896  
Interest expense related to deposits
    2,009       2,669       1,680  
Trading securities
    1,673       1       2  
Derivatives at fair value
    386       4,179       (283 )
Other income
 
US$
1,192    
US$
2,533    
US$
1,196  

Credicorp made these loans, contingent operations and derivative contracts with related parties in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with the normal market terms available to other customers. Outstanding loan balances at the year-end are granted by collateral given by the related party. The loans to related companies as of December 31, 2009 have maturity dates ranging between January 2010 and November 2018 and an accrued annual interest average of 5.5% (and as of December 31, 2008 had a maturity between February 2009 and July 2017 and an accrued annual interest average of 7.98%). As of December 31, 2009, there was no provision for doubtful debts due to related parties (US$1.2 million as of December 31, 2008 and US$0.2 million as of December 31, 2007). This amount is established based on an assessment performed on a continuous basis on the financial position of the related party and the market in which it operates. The increase registered in 2009 in relation to the level of direct loans in 2008 was mainly explained by additional financing granted to five entities Agrícola del Chira S.A., Centro Empresarial El Derby S.A., Inversiones Centenario S.A., Alicorp S.A. y Sucroalcolera del Chira S.A.
 
As of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, Credicorp’s directors, officers and employees had been involved, directly and indirectly, in credit transactions with certain subsidiaries, as permitted by Peruvian Law No. 26702. This law regulates and limits certain transactions with employees, directors and officers of banks and insurance companies in Peru. As of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009, direct loans to employees, directors and key management of Credicorp amounted to US$85.1 million, US$116.3 million and US$133.3 million, respectively. These loans are paid monthly and earn interest at rates that are similar to market rates for comparable loans.
 
Credicorp does not grant directors or key personnel loans that are guaranteed with its shares or shares of its other companies.

 
119

 
 
Credicorp’s key executives’ compensation as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 was comprised of the following:
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
         
(U.S. Dollars in
thousands)
       
Stock appreciation rights
    27,113       27,362       4,720  
Salaries
    5,535       5,625       4,717  
Director compensation
    1,162       1,303       1,698  
Other
    12,947       8,209       1,415  
Total
    46,757       42,499       12,550  

Our key executives’ compensation comprises all the payments received by them, including the taxes that we assumed.
 
 
(C)
Interests of Experts and Counsel
 
Not applicable.

 
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ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
(A)
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
 
Consolidated Financial Statements
 
See “Item 18. Financial Statements.”
 
Legal Proceedings
 
We, along with our subsidiaries, are involved in certain legal proceedings that arise in the normal course of conducting business. We do not believe that any liabilities that may result from such proceedings would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations, or on the financial condition or results of operations of any of our subsidiaries.
 
Government Investigations
 
Neither we, nor any of our subsidiaries, are involved in any government investigation.
 
Dividend Policy
 
Pursuant to Bermuda law, we may declare and pay dividends from time to time so long as after payment of the dividends: (i) we are able to pay our liabilities as they become due, and (ii) the realizable value of our assets is not less than the aggregate value of our liabilities, issued share capital, and share premium accounts. We cannot make any assurances as to the amount of any dividends or as to whether any dividends will be paid at all, although we currently intend to declare and pay dividends annually, and our Board of Directors currently expects to authorize the payment of an annual dividend to the shareholders of no less than 25% of our consolidated net profits. However, our payment of dividends is subject to Bermuda law and to the discretion of our Board of Directors. The Board’s decision will depend on (i) general business conditions, (ii) our financial performance, (iii) the availability of dividends from our subsidiaries and any restrictions on their payment, and (iv) other factors that the Board may deem relevant.
 
We rely almost exclusively on dividends from our subsidiaries for the payment of our corporate expenses and for the distribution of dividends to holders of our common shares. Subject to certain reserve and capital adequacy requirements under applicable banking and insurance regulations, we are able to cause our subsidiaries to declare dividends. To the extent our subsidiaries do not have funds available or are otherwise restricted from paying us dividends, our ability to pay dividends on our common shares will be adversely affected. Currently, there are no restrictions on the ability of BCP, ASHC, PPS, or any of our other subsidiaries to pay dividends abroad. In addition, BCP and PPS intend to declare and pay dividends in Nuevos Soles, while we intend to declare and pay dividends in U.S. Dollars. If the value of the Nuevo Sol falls relative to the U.S. Dollar between the date of declaration and the date of payment of dividends, the value of the dividends we pay would be adversely affected. See “Item 3. Key Information—(A) Selected Financial Data—Exchange Rates.”

 
121

 
 
The following table shows cash and stock dividends that we paid in the periods indicated:
 
Year ended December 31,
 
Number of Shares Entitled
to Dividends
   
Cash Dividends
Per Share
   
Stock
Dividends
Per Share
 
1999
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.20
     
0.00
 
2000
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.10
     
0.00
 
2001
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.10
     
0.00
 
2002
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.40
     
0.00
 
2003
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.30
     
0.00
 
2004
    94,382,317      
US$ 0.40
     
0.00
 
2005
    94,382,317       US$ 0.80      
0.00
 
2006
    94,382,317       US$ 1.10      
0.00
 
2007
    94,382,317       US$ 1.30      
0.00
 
2008
    94,382,317       US$ 1.50      
0.00
 
2009
    94,382,317       US$ 1.70      
0.00
 

On February 24, 2010, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of US$1.70 per common share held at the close of business on April 16, 2010. This dividend was distributed on May 11, 2010.

 
122

 

ITEM 9.
THE OFFER AND LISTING
 
(A)
Offer and Listing Details
 
Price History of Credicorp’s Stock
 
Our common shares have been traded on the New York Stock Exchange since October 25, 1995 under the symbol BAP. Our common shares also trade on the Lima Stock Exchange. They are quoted in U.S. Dollars on both the New York Stock Exchange and the Lima Stock Exchange. The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing prices and average daily trading volume for our common shares on the New York Stock Exchange.
 
   
High
   
Low
   
Average
Daily
Volume
 
2005
    US$ 28.81       US$ 14.41       82,338  
2006
    US$ 45.42       US$ 21.88       176,388  
2007
    US$ 76.81       US$ 38.04       279,602  
2008
    US$ 86.19       US$ 30.23       399,661  
2009
    US$ 78.35       US$ 32.91       359,807  
 
                       
2008
                       
First quarter
    US$ 80.25       US$ 69.99       366,249  
Second quarter
    US$ 86.19       US$ 75.01       340,571  
Third quarter
    US$ 81.33       US$ 55.64       421,241  
Fourth quarter
    US$ 60.68       US$ 30.23       469,019  
2009
                       
First quarter
    US$ 53.02       US$ 34.58       503,904  
Second quarter
    US$ 61.52       US$ 45.83       408,861  
Third quarter
    US$ 76.26       US$ 54.81       264,382  
Fourth quarter
    US$ 78.35       US$ 66.70       269,604  
2010
                       
First quarter
    US$ 86.48       US$ 70.46       205,535  
Second quarter (through June 14)
    US$ 93.22       US$ 78.39       225,722  


Source : Bloomberg

 
123

 

The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing prices and average daily trading volume for our common shares on the Lima Stock Exchange.
 
   
High
   
Low
   
Average
Daily
Volume
 
   
(U.S. Dollars)
 
2005
    28.99       14.33       15,744  
2006
    45.58       38.27       16,950  
2007
    76.48       38.24       22,553  
2008
    86.00       31.01       15,386  
2009
    77.95       33.21       11,713  
 
                       
2008
                       
First quarter
    80.12       70.00       10,460  
Second quarter
    84.80       73.54       12,763  
Third quarter
    81.50       56.20       17,033  
Fourth quarter
    60.40       31.01       20,598  
2009
                       
First quarter
    53.10       34.90       16,530  
Second quarter
    61.59       45.75       12,652  
Third quarter
    75.71       54.54       7,704  
Fourth quarter
    77.95       67.41       10,599  
2010
                       
First quarter
    86.60       70.86       10,624  
Second quarter (through June 14)
    93.00       78.50       5,535  


Source:  Bloomberg

The table below sets forth, for the indicated months, the reported high and low closing prices for our common shares on the New York Stock Exchange.
 
   
High
   
Low
 
   
(U.S. Dollars)
 
2009
           
December
    75.53       71.25  
2010
               
January
    77.08       70.46  
February
    77.47       71.41  
March
    86.48       77.03  
April
    90.37       85.93  
May
    89.40       78.39  
June (through June 14)
    93.22       87.58  
 

Source:  Bloomberg

 
124

 
 
The table below sets forth, for the indicated months, the reported high and low closing prices for our common shares on the Lima Stock Exchange.
 
   
High
   
Low
 
   
(U.S. Dollars)
 
2009
           
December
    74.92       70.95  
2010
               
January
    76.76       70.86  
February
    77.33       71.83  
March
    86.60       76.99  
April
    90.00       85.45  
May
    88.60       78.50  
June (through June 14)
    93.00       87.60  
 

Source:  Bloomberg
 
On June 14 2010, the last sale price of our common shares on the New York Stock Exchange was US$92.95 per share. On June 14, 2010, the closing price of our common shares on the Lima Stock Exchange was US$93.00.
 
 
(B)
Plan of Distribution
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(C)
Markets
 
The Lima Stock Exchange
 
 
 
(i)
Trading
 
As of December 2009, there were 257 companies listed on the Bolsa de Valores de Lima (Lima Stock Exchange). The Lima Stock Exchange is Peru’s only securities exchange and was established in 1970. Trading on the Lima Stock Exchange is primarily done on an electronic trading system that became operational in August 1995. Trading hours are Monday through Friday as follows: 9:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. (pre-market ordering); 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (trading); and 1:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. (after market sales). Equity securities may also be traded in an open outcry auction floor session, which was the exclusive method of trading equity securities prior to the introduction of electronic trading. Nearly 100% of all transactions on the Lima Stock Exchange currently take place on the electronic system.
 
Transactions during both the open outcry and the electronic sessions are executed through brokerage firms and stock brokers on behalf of their clients. Brokers submit their orders in strict accordance with written instructions, following the chronological order in which they were received. The orders specify the type of security ordered or offered as well as the amounts and the price of the sale or purchase. In general, share prices are permitted to increase or decrease up to 15% for Peruvian companies, and up to 30% for foreign companies, within a single trading day.
 
The Peruvian stock market capitalization increased, in U.S. Dollar terms, by 80.0% in 2005, 65.8% in 2006, and 80.3% in 2007.  It decreased by 47.1% in 2008 as a result of the global economic crisis. It rebounded in 2009, growing by 87.5%, although it did not return to the record highs set in October 2007. 

 
125

 
 
Traded volume in 2009 was considerably lower than in 2007-2008, and was quite close to the 2006 figure. The accumulated total for 2009 was US$5,710 million, with 70.1% relating to cash trading in equity securities, 18.6% to cash trading in fixed-income securities, 11.0% to repo transactions, 0.1% to primary placements, and the remaining 0.1%, to securities lending.
 
The Indice General de la Bolsa de Valores de Lima (the General Index of the Lima Stock Exchange or IGBVL) increased, in U.S. dollar terms, 60.5% in 2004, 24.6% in 2005, 186.9% in 2006, and 45.6% in 2007. It decreased 61.5% in 2008, but increased 101.0% in 2009.
 
 
 
(ii)
Market Regulation
 
The Securities Market Law (Legislative Decree 861) addresses matters such as transparency and disclosure, takeovers and corporate actions, capital market instruments and operations, the securities markets and broker-dealers, and risk rating agencies. CONASEV, a governmental entity reporting to Peru’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, was given additional responsibilities relating to the supervision, regulation, and development of the securities market, while the Lima Stock Exchange and its member firms were given the status of self-regulatory organizations. Additionally, a unified system of guarantees and capital requirements was established for the Lima Stock Exchange and its member firms.
 
CONASEV is governed by a nine-member board appointed by the government. CONASEV has broad regulatory powers. These powers include studying, promoting, and making rules for the securities market, supervising its participants, and approving the registration of public offerings of securities.
 
CONASEV supervises the securities markets and the dissemination of information to investors. It also (i) governs the operations of the Public Registry of Securities and Brokers, (ii) regulates mutual funds and their management companies, (iii) monitors compliance with accounting regulations by companies under its supervision as well as the accuracy of financial statements and (iv) registers and supervises auditors who provide accounting services to those companies under CONASEV’s supervision.
 
On August 22, 1995, CONASEV approved regulations governing the public offering of securities in Peru by entities organized outside of Peru and, for the first time, authorized foreign companies to be listed on the Lima Stock Exchange. On October 25, 1995, we became the first non-Peruvian company to list our shares on the Lima Stock Exchange. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(11) Supervision and Regulation.”
 
Pursuant to the Securities Market Law, the Lima Stock Exchange must maintain a guarantee fund that is funded by its member firms. The actual contributions to be made by the 21 member firms of the Lima Stock Exchange are based on volume traded over the exchange. At present, the fund has approximately S/.28 million (US$9.75 million). In addition to the guarantee fund managed by the Lima Stock Exchange, each member firm is required to maintain a guarantee for operations carried on outside the exchange in favor of CONASEV. Such guarantees are generally established through stand-by letters of credit issued by local banks.
 
 
(D)
Selling Shareholders
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(E)
Dilution
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(F)
Expenses of the issue
 
Not applicable.

 
126

 
 
ITEM 10.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
(A)
Share Capital
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(B)
Memorandum and Articles of Association
 
“Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation” from our Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 27, 2003 is incorporated herein by reference.
 
At our Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting held on March 31, 2005, we adopted an amendment to our bye-laws that increased the number of our directors from six to eight. In addition, we also removed provisions that established a classified board structure with staggered terms, adopting instead fixed three-year terms to be served until the end of the Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting for the year in which the three-year period expires. These amendments were primarily adopted to give more stability to our administration and to give AFPs, whose ownership of our common shares has steadily increased (see “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—(A) Major Shareholders”), direct representation on our Board of Directors. Directors were also elected to two newly created directorships to represent pension funds.
 
 
(C)
Material Contracts
 
As of the date hereof, we have not, nor have our subsidiaries, entered into any material contracts.
 
 
(D)
Exchange Controls
 
We have been designated as a non-resident for Bermuda exchange control purposes, and therefore, there are no restrictions on our ability to transfer non-Bermuda funds in and out of Bermuda or to pay dividends to United States residents who are holders of our common shares.
 
We rely almost exclusively on dividends from BCP, ASHC, PPS, and our other subsidiaries for the payment of dividends to holders of our common shares. To the extent our subsidiaries are restricted by law from paying us dividends, our ability to pay dividends on our common shares will be adversely affected.
 
In addition, we present our financial statements and pay dividends in U.S. Dollars. BCP and PPS prepare their financial statements and pay dividends in Nuevos Soles. If the value of the Nuevo Sol were to fall relative to the U.S. Dollar between the date of declaration and the date of payment of dividends, the value of the dividends we receive from our subsidiaries would be adversely affected. On an overall basis, the Peruvian currency has appreciated against the US. Dollar during the last decade.
 
Although substantially all of the customers of BCP, ASHC and PPS are located in Peru, as of December 31, 2009, approximately 59% of BCP’s loan portfolio, 100% of ASHC’s loan portfolio, and 88.6% of PPS’s premiums were denominated in U.S. Dollars. Most of the borrowers or insureds of these three companies use Nuevo Soles. Therefore, a devaluation of the Nuevo Sol would effectively increase the cost to the borrower of repaying its loans and the cost to the insured of making its premium payments. As a result, devaluation could lead to more nonperforming loans or unpaid premiums for BCP, ASHC and PPS.
 
One circumstance that could lead to a devaluation is a decline in Peruvian foreign reserves to inadequate levels. Although the current level of Peru’s foreign reserves compares favorably with those of other Latin American countries, there can be no assurance that Peru will be able to maintain adequate foreign reserves to meet its foreign currency-denominated obligations or that Peru will not devalue its currency should its foreign reserves decline. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—(B) Business Overview—(9) Peruvian Government and Economy.”

 
127

 
 
Since March 1991, there have been no exchange rate controls in Peru and all foreign exchange transactions are based on free market exchange rates. Current Peruvian regulations on foreign investment allow the foreign holders of equity shares of Peruvian companies to receive and repatriate 100% of the cash dividends distributed by the company. These investors are allowed to purchase foreign exchange at free market exchange rates through any member of the Peruvian banking system.
 
 
(E)
Taxation
 
At the present time, there is no Bermuda income or profits tax, withholding tax, capital gains tax, capital transfer tax, estate duty, or inheritance tax that we must pay or our shareholders must pay with respect to their shares. We have obtained an assurance from the Minister of Finance of Bermuda under the Exempted Undertakings Tax Protection Act 1966 that, in the event that any legislation is enacted in Bermuda imposing any tax on profits or income, or on any capital asset, gain, or appreciation or any tax in the nature of an estate duty or inheritance tax, such tax shall not, until March 28, 2016, be applicable to us or to any of our operations or to our shares, debentures, or other obligations. This assurance, however, does not cover any tax applicable to persons ordinarily resident in Bermuda or to any taxes that we must pay with respect to real property that we own or lease in Bermuda.
 
As an exempted company, we are liable to pay in Bermuda an annual government fee based upon our authorized share capital and the premium on our issued common shares, which amounted to approximately US$18,670 in 2009.
 
 
(F)
Dividends and Paying Agents
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(G)
Statement by Experts
 
Not applicable.
 
 
(H)
Documents on Display
 
The documents referred to in this Annual Report are available for inspection at our registered office.
 
 
(I)
Subsidiary Information
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 11.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
By their nature, our activities involve principally the use of financial instruments, including derivatives.  We accept deposits from customers at both fixed and floating rates for various periods and seek to earn above-average interest margins by investing these funds in high-quality assets.  We seek to increase these margins by consolidating short-term funds and lending for longer periods at higher rates, while maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet all claims that might fall due.
 
We also seek to raise interest margins by obtaining above-average market margins, net of allowances, through lending to commercial and retail borrowers with a range of credit products.  Such exposures involve not only on-balance sheet loans and advances; the Group also enters into guarantees and other commitments such as letters of credit and performance.
 
We also take positions in traded and over-the-counter instruments, including derivatives, to take advantage of short-term market movements in equities, bonds, currency and interest rates.

 
128

 
 
In this sense, risk is inherent in our activities but it is managed through a process of ongoing identification, measurement, and monitoring, subject to risk limits and other controls.  This process of risk management is critical to our continuing profitability, and each individual within our company is accountable for the risk exposures relating to his or her responsibilities.  We are exposed to operating risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, and market risk, the latter being subdivided into trading and non-trading risk.
 
The independent risk control process does not include business risks such as changes in the environment, technology, or industry.  These risks are monitored through our strategic planning process.
 
Risk Management Structure
 
Our board of directors and the boards of each subsidiary are ultimately responsible for identifying and controlling risks; however, there are separate independent bodies in the major subsidiaries (BCP, PPS, and ASHC) responsible for managing and monitoring risks, as further explained bellow:
 
Board of Directors: The board of directors of each major subsidiary is responsible for the overall risk management approach and for the approval of the policies and strategies currently in place.  The Board provides written principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, and risk relating to the use of derivative and non-derivative financial instruments.
 
Risk Management Committee: The Risk Management Committee of each major subsidiary is responsible for the strategy used for mitigating risks as well as setting forth the overall principles, policies, and limits for the different types of risks; it is also responsible for monitoring fundamental risk issues and for managing and monitoring the relevant risk decisions.
 
Risk Management Department: The Risk Management Department of each major subsidiary is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving, on a continuous basis, our risk management infrastructure by adopting and incorporating global best practices and following established policies.
 
Internal Audit: Risk management processes throughout our organization are monitored by the internal audit function, which examines both the adequacy of the procedures and our compliance with them.  Internal Audit discusses the results of all assessments with management, and reports its findings and recommendations to our Audit Committee and Board of Directors.
 
Treasury and Foreign Exchange Departments: Our Treasury Department is responsible for managing our assets and liabilities and our overall financial structure.  It is also primarily responsible for managing funding and liquidity risks and for managing the investment, forward, and spot portfolios.  It also assumes the related liquidity, interest rate, and exchange rate risks, under the policies and limits that are in effect.
 
Risk Measurement and Reporting Systems
 
Our risks are measured using a method which reflects both the expected losses likely to arise in normal circumstances and the unexpected losses, which are an estimate of the ultimate actual loss based on statistical models.  The models make use of probabilities derived from historical experience, adjusted to reflect the economic environment.  We also examine worst-case scenarios that might arise in the event that extreme and unlikely events do, in fact, occur.
 
Monitoring and controlling risks are primarily performed based on limits that we establish.  These limits reflect our business strategy, the market environment, and the level of risk that we are willing to accept.  In addition, we monitor and measure our overall risk-bearing capacity relative to our aggregate risk exposure across all risk types and activities.
 
Information compiled from all our subsidiaries is examined and processed in order to analyze, control, and identify risks early on.  This information is presented and explained to the Board of Directors, the Risk Management Committee, and all of our other relevant members.  The report typically includes aggregate credit exposure, credit metric forecasts, hold limit exceptions, VaR (Value at Risk), liquidity ratios, and risk profile changes.  Our senior management periodically assesses the fair value of our investments and the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses.

 
129

 
 
Risk Mitigation
 
As part of our overall risk management, we use derivatives and other instruments to manage exposures resulting from interest rates, foreign currencies, equity risk, and credit risk.
 
The risk profile is assessed before entering into hedge transactions, which are authorized by the appropriate level of seniority within the Group.  The effectiveness of hedges is assessed by the Risk Management Department (based on economic considerations rather than the IFRS hedge accounting regulations).  The effectiveness of all the hedge relationships is monitored by the unit monthly.  When a hedge is found to be ineffective, we will enter into a new hedge relationship to mitigate risk on a continuous basis.
 
We actively use collateral to reduce credit risks.
 
Excessive Risk Concentration
 
Concentrations arise when a number of counterparties are engaged in similar business activities, or activities in the same geographic region or regions that have similar economic, political or other conditions.  Concentrations indicate the relative sensitivity of the Group’s performance to developments affecting a particular industry or geographical location.
 
In order to avoid excessive concentrations of risk, Credicorp’s policies and procedures include specific guidelines to focus on maintaining a diversified portfolio.  Identified concentrations of credit risks are controlled and managed accordingly.
 
Market Risk
 
We take on exposure to market risks, which is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices.  Market risks arise from open positions in interest rates, currency, commodities, or equity products—all of which are exposed to general and specific market movements and changes in the level of volatility of prices such as interest rates, credit spreads, foreign exchange rates, and equity prices.  Due to the nature of our current activities, commodity price risk is not applicable.
 
We separate exposures to market risk into two groups: (i) those that arise from value fluctuation of trading portfolios due to movements of market rates or prices (Trading Book) and (ii) those that arise from changes in the structural positions of non-trading portfolios due to movements of the interest rates, prices, and foreign exchange ratios (ALM Book).
 
Trading portfolios include those liquid positions arising from market-making transactions where Credicorp acts as principal with clients or with the market.  Non-trading portfolios consist of relatively illiquid positions, mainly banking assets and liabilities (deposits and loans) and non-trading investments (available-for-sale).
 
The risks that trading portfolios face are managed through VaR historical simulation techniques; while non-trading portfolios are managed using Asset Liability Management (ALM).
 
Trading Book
 
The trading book is made up of liquid investment instruments.  The trading book is characterized for having liquid positions in equities, bonds, foreign currencies and derivatives.  Some limits have been set in order to control and monitor the risks undertaken.  These risks arise from the size of the positions and/or from the volatility of the risk factors embedded in each financial instrument.  Regular reports are prepared for the Risk Management Committees and top management.  The major measurement technique used to measure and control market risk is Value at Risk (VaR).

 
130

 
 
We apply VaR to trading portfolios to estimate the market risk of positions held and the maximum losses that are expected, based upon a number of assumptions for various changes in market conditions.  Our Risk Management Committee sets limits on the level of risk that may be accepted and reviews these levels daily.
 
VaR is a statistically-based estimate of the potential loss on the current portfolio due to adverse market movements.  It expresses the “maximum” amount we might lose, but only to a certain level of confidence (99 percent).  There is therefore a specified statistical probability (1 percent) that actual loss could be greater than the VaR estimate.  The VaR model assumes a certain “holding period” until positions can be closed (1 day - 10 days).  The time horizon used to calculate VaR is one day; however, the one-day VAR is amplified to a 10-day time frame and calculated multiplying the one-day VaR by the square root of 10.  Results are presented in the tables below.  The assessment of past movements is based on historical one-year data.  We apply these historical changes in rates directly to our current positions (a method known as historical simulation).
 
The use of this approach does not prevent losses outside of these limits in the event of more significant market movements.
 
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, our VaR by type of asset was as follows:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Equity securities
    2       55  
Mutual funds
    -       1,034  
Fixed income
    1,142       1,116  
Derivatives
    2,541       -  
Consolidated VaR by type of asset
    2,269       1,064  

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, our VaR by risk type is as follows:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Foreign exchange risk
    985       579  
Interest rate risk
    1,802       1,063  
Equity risk
    1       850  
Consolidated VaR by risk type
    2,269       1,604  

ALM Book
 
The management of risks associated with long-term and structural positions is called Asset and Liability Management (ALM).  Non-trading portfolios which comprise the ALM Book are exposed to different sensitivities that can deteriorate the value of our assets relative to our liabilities and hence can reduce our net worth.
 
Interest Risk
 
Interest rate risk arises from the possibility that changes in interest rates will affect future cash flows or the fair value of financial instruments.  Cash flow interest rate risk is the risk that the future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.  Fair value interest rate risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.  We are exposed to both fair value interest rate risk and cash flow interest rate risk.  Interest margins may increase as a result of such changes but may also decrease in the event that unexpected movements arise.  The Board sets limits on the level of mismatch of interest rate re-pricing that may be undertaken.  This level is monitored daily by Treasury Department.

 
131

 
 
Re-pricing Gap
 
Gap analysis comprises aggregating re-pricing timeframes into buckets and checking if each bucket nets to zero.  Different bucketing schemes may be used.  An interest rate gap is simply a positive or negative net re-pricing timeframe for one of the buckets.
 
The table below summarizes our exposure to interest rate risks. It includes our financial instruments at carrying amounts, categorized by the earlier of contractual re-pricing or maturity dates:

 
132

 
 
   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Up to 1
month
 
1 to 3
months
 
3 to 12
months
 
1 to 5 years
 
More than 5
years
 
Non-interest
bearing
 
Total
 
   
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
Assets
                             
Cash and due from banks
    2,745,587     70,616     81,969     -     -     938,486     3,836,658  
Investments
    494,937     1,009,295     1,009,704     1,254,765     928,562     453,117     5,150,380  
Loans
    1,739,632     3,144,271     2,142,219     3,176,243     1,028,915     -     11,231,280  
Assets designated at fair value through profit and loss
    -     258     310     1,657     3,565     129,880     135,670  
Premiums and other policies receivables
    -     -     -     -     -     121,338     121,338  
Accounts receivable from re-insurers and co-insurers
    -     -     -     -     -     137,098     137,098  
Other assets
    -     -     -     -     -     1,415,683     1,415,683  
Total assets
    4,890,156     4,224,440     3,234,202     4,432,665     1,961,042     3,195,602     22,028,107  
Liabilities
                                           
Deposits and obligations
    4,025,133     3,716,882     2,711,965     311,252     28,601     3,297,995     14,091,828  
Due to banks and correspondents
    310,694     633,874     10,208     128,643     57,835     26,184     1,167,438  
Liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss
    -     -     -     -     -     48,009     48,009  
Technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    39,932     24,949     112,373     164,216     367,552     309,769     1,018,791  
Borrowed funds
    953,461     2,815     13,385     93,177     26,383     -     1,089,221  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    5,880     18,768     71,627     448,803     728,653     13,291     1,287,022  
Other liabilities
    -     -     -     -     -     822,446     822,446  
Equity
    -     -     -     -     -     2,503,352     2,503,352  
Total liabilities and equity
    5,335,100     4,397,288     2,919,558     1,146,091     1,209,024     7,021,046     22,028,107  
Off-Balance sheet items
                                           
Derivatives assets
    2,094,179     1,574,953     976,153     1,152,853     67,810     -     5,865,948  
Derivatives liabilities
    957,368     1,238,661     1,221,097     2,042,343     406,479     -     5,865,948  
      1,136,811     336,292     (244,944 )   (889,490 )   (338,669 )   -     -  
Marginal gap
    781,867     163,444     69,700     2,397,084     413,349     (3,825,444 )   -  
Accumulated gap
    781,867     945,311     1,015,011     3,412,095     3,825,444     -     -  

 
133

 

   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Up to 1
month
 
1 to 3
months
 
3 to 12
months
 
1 to 5 years
 
More than 5
years
 
Non-interest
bearing
 
Total
 
   
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
US$(000)
 
Assets
                             
Cash and due from banks
    2,455,413     196,588     46,536     10,218     -     1,057,416     3,766,171  
Investments
    818,153     1,208,344     988,796     542,759     1,139,201     289,585     4,986,838  
Loans
    2,038,457     2,412,234     2,274,854     2,992,480     604,016     -     10,322,041  
Assets designated at fair value through profit and loss
    -     249     329     790     1,954     134,623     137,945  
Premiums and other policies receivables
    -     -     -     -     -     111,561     111,561  
Accounts receivable from re-insurers and co-insurers
    -     -     -     -     -     165,144     165,144  
Other assets
    -     -     -     -     -     1,331,369     1,331,369  
Total assets
    5,312,023     3,817,415     3,310,515     3,546,247     1,745,171     3,089,698     20,821,069  
Liabilities
                                           
Deposits and obligations
    4,114,430     3,268,610     2,991,905     321,984     39,979     3,213,529     13,950,437  
Due to banks and correspondents
    178,539     745,155     197,935     11,705     32,544     14,113     1,179,991  
Accounts payable to re-insurers and co-insurers
    -     -     -     -     -     55,841     55,841  
Technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    31,254     19,357     86,935     148,437     331,697     350,090     967,770  
Borrowed funds
    1,008,997     2,474     11,762     81,871     45,612     -     1,150,716  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    817     -     63,208     284,577     428,788     7,840     785,230  
Other liabilities
    -     -     -     -     -     934,979     934,979  
Equity
    -     -     -     -     -     1,796,105     1,796,105  
Total liabilities and equity
    5,334,037     4,035,596     3,351,745     848,574     878,620     6,372,497     20,821,069  
Off-Balance sheet items
                                           
Derivatives assets
    2,499,906     1,295,838     590,446     469,276     293,100     -     5,148,566  
Derivatives liabilities
    1,618,002     788,307     834,589     1,471,042     436,626     -     5,148,566  
      881,904     507,531     (244,143)     (1,001,766)     (143,526)     -     -  
Marginal gap
    859,890     289,350     (285,373)     1,695,907     723,025     (3,282,799)     -  
Accumulated gap
    859,890     1,149,240     863,867     2,559,774     3,282,799     -     -  

 
134

 

Sensitivity to Changes in Interest Rates
 
The following table presents the sensitivity of our consolidated income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive income (before income tax and minority interest) to a reasonable possible change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant,.
 
The sensitivity of the consolidated income statement reflects the effect of the assumed changes in interest rates on the net interest income for one year, before income tax and minority interest, based on the floating rate of non-trading financial assets and financial liabilities held at December 31, 2009 and 2008, including the effect of derivatives instruments.  The sensitivity of consolidated comprehensive income is calculated by revaluing at various interest rates our fixed rate available-for-sale financial assets, before income tax and minority interest.  This analysis includes the effect of any associated hedges and derivatives instruments designated as cash flow hedges:
 
   
As of December 31, 2009
 
Currency
 
Changes in
basis points
   
Sensitivity of
net income
   
Sensitivity of
comprehensive
income
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
U.S. Dollar
  +/- 50     +/- 10,484     -/+ 43,174  
U.S. Dollar
  +/- 75     +/- 15,727     -/+ 64,762  
U.S. Dollar
  +/- 100     +/- 20,969     -/+ 86,349  
U.S. Dollar
  +/- 150     +/- 31,453     -/+ 129,523  
Peruvian Currency
  +/- 50     -/+ 3,446     -/+ 24,856  
Peruvian Currency
  +/- 75     -/+ 5,169     -/+ 37,284  
Peruvian Currency
  +/- 100     -/+ 6,892     -/+ 49,711  
Peruvian Currency
  +/- 150     -/+ 10,339     -/+ 74,567  

The interest rate sensitivities set out in the table above are illustrative only and are based on simplified scenarios.  The figures represent the effect of the pro-forma movements in the net interest income based on the projected yield curve scenarios and our current interest rate risk profile.  This effect, however, does not incorporate actions that would be taken by our management to mitigate the impact of this interest rate risk.  In addition, we seek proactively to change the interest rate risk profile to minimize losses and optimize net revenues.  The projections above also assume that interest rate of all maturities move by the same amount and, therefore, do not reflect the potential impact on net interest income of some rates changing while others remain unchanged.  The projections make other simplifying assumptions as well, including an assumption that all positions run to maturity.
 
Available-for-sale investments, securities, and mutual funds are not considered part of the investment securities for purposes of this sensitivity calculation; however, presented below is a table of how the expected unrealized gain or loss on equity securities and mutual funds responds to changes in market prices of these securities, at the 10%, 25%, and 30% levels:

 
135

 
 
Market price sensitivity
 
Changes in market prices
   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
%
   
US$(000)
 
             
Equity securities
  +/- 10     +/- 33,073  
Equity securities
  +/- 25     +/- 82,683  
Equity securities
  +/- 30     +/- 99,220  
Mutual funds
  +/- 10     +/- 17,454  
Mutual funds
  +/- 25     +/- 43,635  
Mutual funds
  +/- 30     +/- 52,361  

Foreign Exchange Risk
 
Our financial position and cash flows are exposed to foreign currency exchange rates. Management sets limits on the acceptable level of exposure to individual currencies and in total for both overnight and intra-day positions, which are monitored daily.
 
Foreign currency transactions are made at the free market exchange rates of the countries where our subsidiaries are established. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, our assets and liabilities by currencies were as follows:
 
2009
 
U.S. Dollars
   
Peruvian 
currency
   
Other
currencies
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Monetary assets -
                       
Cash and due from banks
    3,094,366       501,769       240,523       3,836,658  
Trading securities
    13,982       8,920       47,872       70,774  
Available-for-sale investments
    2,354,804       2,034,768       690,034       5,079,606  
Loans, net
    6,755,563       4,285,076       190,641       11,231,280  
Financial assets designated to fair value through profit and loss
    135,670       -       -       135,670  
Other assets
    507,057       563,065       22,977       1,093,099  
      12,861,442       7,393,598       1,192,047       21,447,087  
Monetary liabilities -
                               
Deposits and obligations
    (8,156,869 )     (5,398,780 )     (536,179 )     (14,091,828 )
Due to bank and correspondents and borrowed funds
    (2,126,963 )     (128,800 )     (896 )     (2,256,659 )
Financial liabilities designated at fair value through profits and loss
    -       -       -       -  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    (612,098 )     (562,739 )     (112,185 )     (1,287,022 )
Other liabilities
    (1,187,739 )     (651,365 )     (50,142 )     (1,889,246 )
      (12,083,669 )     (6,741,684 )     (699,402 )     (19,524,755 )
      777,773       651,914       492,645       1,922,332  
Forwards position, net
    265,114       (198,637 )     (66,477 )     -  
Currency swaps position, net
    (142,015 )     183,598       (41,583 )     -  
Cross-currency swaps position, net and interest rate swaps position, net
    77,768       129,049       (206,817 )     -  
Options
    (3,711 )     3,711       -       -  
Net monetary position
    974,929       769,635       177,768       1,922,332  

 
136

 
 
2008
 
U.S. Dollars
   
Peruvian 
currency
   
Other
currencies
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Monetary assets -
                       
Cash and due from banks
    3,156,279       495,550       114,342       3,766,171  
Trading securities
    23,220       11,523       1,341       36,084  
Available-for-sale investments
    2,890,978       1,734,526       325,250       4,950,754  
Loans, net
    6,930,125       3,298,579       93,337       10,322,041  
Financial assets designated to fair value through profit and loss
    136,311       1,634       -       137,945  
Other assets
    594,107       255,476       12,383       861,966  
      13,731,020       5,797,288       546,653       20,074,961  
Monetary liabilities -
                               
Deposits and obligations
    (8,614,042 )     (4,963,932 )     (372,463 )     (13,950,437 )
Due to bank and correspondents and borrowed funds
    (2,189,114 )     (140,155 )     (1,438 )     (2,330,707 )
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    (311,860 )     (473,370 )     -       (785,230 )
Other liabilities
    (1,425,817 )     (508,063 )     (24,710 )     (1,958,590 )
      (12,540,833 )     (6,085,520 )     (398,611 )     (19,024,964 )
      1,190,187       (288,232 )     148,042       1,049,997  
Forwards position, net
    (627,600 )     591,628       35,972       -  
Currency swaps position, net
    71,154       (71,154 )     -       -  
Cross-currency swaps position, net and interest rate swaps position, net
    (317,043 )     317,043       -       -  
Net monetary position
    316,698       549,285       184,014       1,049,997  

We manage foreign exchange risk by monitoring exchange rates and adjusting the position values based on changes in exchange rates.  We measure our performance in U.S. Dollars, so if the net foreign exchange position (e.g. Peruvian currency) is an asset, any depreciation of the U.S. Dollar with respect to this currency would affect positively our consolidated statements of financial position.  The current position in a foreign currency comprises exchange rate-linked assets and liabilities in that currency.  An institution’s open position in individual currencies comprises assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet items denominated in the respective foreign currency for which the institution itself bears the risk; any appreciation or depreciation of the foreign exchange rate would affect the consolidated income statement.
 
Our net foreign exchange balance is the sum of its positive open non-U.S. Dollar positions (net long position) less the sum of its negative open non-U.S. Dollar positions (net short position); any devaluation or revaluation of the foreign exchange position would affect the consolidated income statement.  A currency mismatch would leave our consolidated statements of financial position vulnerable to a fluctuation of the foreign currency (exchange rate shock).
 
The sensitivity analysis in the table below shows the effect of the Peruvian Currency, the currency to which we had significant exposure as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, on its non-trading monetary assets and liabilities and its forecasted cash flows.  The analysis calculates the effect of a reasonably possible movement of the currency rate against the U.S. Dollar, with all other variables held constant on the consolidated income statement, before income tax.  A negative amount in the table reflects a potential net reduction in the consolidated income statement, while a positive amount reflects a net potential increase:

 
137

 
 
Sensitivity Analysis
 
Change in Currency Rates
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
%
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Devaluation -
                 
Peruvian Currency
   
5
      (40,507 )     (28,910 )
Peruvian Currency
   
10
      (85,515 )     (61,032 )
                         
Revaluation -
                       
Peruvian Currency
   
5
      36,649       26,156  
Peruvian Currency
   
10
      69,967       49,935  
 
 
ITEM 12.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
 
Not applicable.

 
138

 

PART II
 
ITEM 13.
DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
 
(A)
Material Defaults
 
We, along with our subsidiaries, have never defaulted on any of our debt or have been forced to reschedule any of our obligations.
 
 
(B)
Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
 
None.
 
 
ITEM 14.
MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
None.
 
 
ITEM 15.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
(A) 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our management, with the participation of and under the supervision of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of December 31, 2009. Based on this evaluation, our management, principal executive officer, and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information that we are required to disclose in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules and forms.
 
 
(B) 
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
Our Board of Directors and management are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, the IASB.
 
Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
 
 
·
Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets;
 
 
·
Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation and fair presentation of financial statements, and our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management; and
 
 
·
Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

 
139

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 based on the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, or COSO, in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Based on this assessment, our management believes that, as of December 31, 2009, our internal control over financial reporting was effective. Our management also found no material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and therefore no corrective actions were taken.
 
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 has been audited by Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes & Asociados (member firm of Ernst & Young Global), our independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included herein, and it has expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009.
 
 
By:
/s/  DIONISIO ROMERO P.
 
By:
/s/ ALVARO CORREA
 
Name:
Dionisio Romero
 
Name:
Alvaro Correa
 
Title:
Chief Executive Officer
 
Title:
Chief Financial Officer
 

June 15, 2010

140

 
(C) 
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Credicorp Ltd.
 
We have audited Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries' (hereinafter “Credicorp”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control- Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Credicorp's Management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on Credicorp's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States of America).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
 
141



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting (continued)

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
In our opinion, Credicorp maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on the COSO criteria.
 
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States of America), the consolidated statement of financial position as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009  and our report dated June 15, 2010, expresses an unqualified opinion thereon.
 
Countersigned by:
 
 
 
Cristian Emmerich
   
C.P.C.C. Register Nº19-289
   
Lima, Peru,
   
June 15, 2010
   
 
142

 
(D) 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
During the period covered by this Annual Report, no changes were made to our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
ITEM 15T.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 16A.
AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
 
In its session held on March 31, 2009, our Board of Directors elected Germán Suárez and Reynaldo Llosa as members of the Audit Committee. The Board elected Mr. Reynaldo Llosa as the Chairman, Mr. Suárez as the Audit Committee Financial Expert, as that term is defined in the instructions to Item 16A of Form 20-F, and Mr. Benedicto Cigüeñas, Director of BCP as an advisor. Our board of directors also determined that Mr. Suárez is “independent” as defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act and in Section 303A.02 of The NYSE Listed Company Manual. Mr. Suárez is an economist, and received his Masters degree in economics from Columbia University. Mr. Suárez became a director on March 31, 2005. Mr. Suárez was President and Chairman of the Board of Banco Central de Reserva del Perú from 1992 to 2001, and serves as director on the board of directors of various other companies, among which is Compañía de Minas Buenaventura S.A.
 

 
ITEM 16B.
CODE OF ETHICS
 
We have adopted a code of ethics (Código de Etica) that is applicable to our Board of Directors, including our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, and our other principal executive officers, as well as to all other employees. In addition, we have adopted a code of ethics for professionals with financial responsibility (Código de Etica Para Profesionales con Responsibilidad Financiera) applicable to employees with financial management responsibilities. Our code of ethics and code of ethics for professionals with financial responsibility are available on the corporate governance section of our web site at http://www.credicorpnet.com.
 
 
ITEM 16C.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
 
The following table sets forth for each of the years indicated the fees paid to our independent auditor, Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes & Asociados, member of Ernst & Young Global, for the audit of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008, and 2009, respectively. The Audit Committee recommends the appointment of the independent auditor every fiscal year, which is done at the Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting.
 
At our Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting held on March 26, 2010, Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes y Asociados was reelected as our external auditor for the financial year 2010. This designation was made in accordance with the proposal and recommendation of the Audit Committee and authorization by the Board of Directors. The Board has also designated the duty of approving the auditor’s fees to the Audit Committee.
 
   
Years ended December 31,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2009
 
   
(U.S. Dollars in thousands)
 
                   
Audit
 
US$
2,264    
US$
2,005    
US$
2,436  
Audit – Related
    -       -       -  
Tax
    28       31       69  
All Other
    32       203       287  
Total
 
US$
2,323    
US$
2,239    
US$
2,792  

Audit Fees correspond to audit services performed (i) reviewing of Credicorp’s consolidated financial statements and its subsidiaries, (ii) establishing the procedures that the independent auditor needs to perform in order to form an opinion about Credicorp’s consolidated financial statements, and (iii) complying with the statutory requirements applicable to Credicorp’s subsidiaries. Audit fees also include expenses related to the audit work in connection with reviews of interim financial information and the comfort letter issued.  All fees were approved by the Audit Committee.
 
Audit-Related Fees elate to services that are similar to the execution of an audit or a review of Credicorp’s financial statements and which are traditionally performed by the independent auditor. Such audit-related services include: assistance in the understanding of new accounting and financial rules established by regulatory entities; audit-related procedures on accounting matters previously agreed with Credicorp management; due diligence and special audit reviews of internal control procedures. There were no audit-related fees during 2009.

 
143

 

Tax Fees relate to tax services which include all services performed by Credicorp’s independent auditor’s tax personnel, except those services specifically related to the review and preparation of Credicorp’s financial statements, and consisting principally of tax compliance and advisory services approved by the Audit Committee.
 
All Other Fees mainly include expenses related to derivative operations consultancy, training courses for the Accounting department of PPS prepared by the independent auditors, and permitted advisory services related to BCP IT systems.
 
Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
 
Our audit committee must approve all of the services the independent auditors provide as part of its responsibility in supervising their work. There are two types of approvals. The Audit Committee grants a “general approval” in advance to a list of services that the independent auditor may provide without further approval required by the Audit Committee. A general approval is valid for 12 months from the date of approval unless the Audit Committee determines a different period of validity should apply. The Audit Committee also grants “specific approval” for services that do not have general approval on a case-by-case basis. All of the services that do not have general approval need specific approval from the Audit Committee before any agreement is signed with the independent auditor to provide such services. Any service that exceeds approved costs or budgets will need specific approval from the Audit Committee. When considering granting any type of approval, the Audit Committee considers whether the requested services are consistent with the SEC’s rules regarding the independence of the independent auditors.
 
Our audit committee supervises the execution of the independent audit services as necessary. It approves, when necessary, any modification in the terms, conditions, fees, and extent of the audit services. The Audit Committee may give a general approval for other audit services where the independent auditor is in the best position to provide those services. Such services typically include: audit services required by regulations, financial audits for our subsidiaries or affiliates, and services associated with the presentation of documents to the SEC or other documents published in relation to the trading of our shares.
 
The Audit Committee may award a general approval to audit-related services if its members consider that these services do not negatively affect the integrity of the independent auditor and are consistent with the rules of the SEC.
 
Following the rules promulgated by the SEC, our audit committee requires that all tax services provided by the independent auditors be subject to its approval. The Audit Committee may grant a specific approval to other services provided by the independent auditor so long as they do not impair the integrity of the independent auditor and are allowed by rules issued by the SEC concerning auditor independence.
 
 
ITEM 16D.
EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
 
Not applicable.

 
144

 

ITEM 16E.
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
 
During 2009, we did not make any purchase of Credicorp shares for our own portfolio. Our affiliates, Prima AFP, Atlantic Security Bank, Credifondo, and Credibolsa did make purchases in open-market transactions on behalf of our clients as part of their core businesses.
 
 
ITEM 16F.
CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 16G.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
 
(A) 
New York Stock Exchange – Corporate Governance
 
The NYSE’s corporate governance rules, codified in Section 303A of the NYSE’s Listed Company Manual, apply, with certain limited exceptions, in full to companies listing common equity securities. Among the corporate governance issues addressed by Section 303A are the following:
 
 
·
Director independence;
 
 
·
The role of non-management directors;
 
 
·
Nominating/corporate governance committee;
 
 
·
Compensation committees;
 
 
·
Audit committees;
 
 
·
Disclosure of corporate governance guidelines, including those in relation to (i) director qualification standards, (ii) director responsibilities, (iii) director access to management and, as necessary and appropriate, independent advisors, (iv) director compensation, (v) director orientation and continuing education, (vi) management succession and (vii) annual performance evaluation of the Board of Directors;
 
 
·
Code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and employees addressing, at a minimum, (i) conflicts of interest, (ii) corporate opportunities, (iii) confidentiality, (iv) fair dealing, (v) protection and proper use of company assets, (v) compliance with laws, rules and regulations (including insider trading laws) and (vi) encouraging the reporting of any illegal or unethical behavior;
 
 
·
Disclosure by foreign private issuers of differences between their corporate governance practices and those of U.S. domestic companies under NYSE’s listing standards;
 
 
·
Certification of compliance with the NYSE’s corporate governance standards and disclosure of violations of Section 303A; and
 
 
·
NYSE actions resulting from violations of the NYSE’s listing standards.

 
145

 

(B) 
Bermuda Law – Corporate Governance
 
We are a company incorporated under the laws of Bermuda and are subject to Bermuda laws related to corporate governance. Under Bermuda law, there are no requirements with respect to the independence of our board of directors, meetings of non-management directors, the establishment and composition of certain committees or the adoption and disclosure of corporate governance guidelines or codes of business conduct and ethics. Certain Bermuda common law and statutory provisions, however, relate to duties and obligations of a company and its directors that are similar to some of the duties and obligations arising from the provisions of Section 303A.
 
 
(1)           Fiduciary Duties and Duties of Skill and Care Under Bermuda Law
 
Under section 97(1) of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda, as amended (also referred to as the Companies Act), every director and officer of a company must act honestly and in good faith with a view to the best interests of the company (often referred to as a “fiduciary duty”) and must exercise the care, diligence and skill that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances (often referred to as a “duty of skill and care”).
 
Fiduciary Duty
 
Under the common law, the fiduciary duty of directors has four aspects which may be briefly summarized as follows:
 
 
·
A duty to act honestly and in good faith. A director has a duty to act honestly and in good faith in what he considers are the best interests of the company and not for any collateral purpose. The courts allow the director wide discretion in determining this, interfering only if no reasonable director could have believed that a course of action was in the best interests of the company. However, a director acting honestly, but not in the best interests of the company, is in breach of such duty.
 
 
·
A duty to exercise powers for a proper purpose. Directors must act within the powers set out in the company’s memorandum of association and bye-laws and exercise their powers in the company’s interests and for the purposes for which those powers were conferred. Even if the directors are acting in good faith in the interests of the company as a whole, they must still use their powers for the purposes for which they were intended. For example, in general directors are not allowed to exercise their powers in such a way as to prevent a majority of the members from exercising their rights.
 
 
·
A duty to avoid conflicts of interest. A director must not put himself in a position where there is an actual or potential conflict between a personal interest and his duty to the company. However, a director may enter into a contract where a conflict of interest might arise if the bye-laws allow it or the company gives its approval in a general meeting. Our blaws do not prohibit a director from entering into a contract where a conflict of interest may arise, but they do prohibit a director from voting with respect to any contract or proposed contract or arrangement in which such director is interested or with which such director has a conflict of interest. In addition, section 97(4) of the Companies Act requires our directors and officers to disclose at the first opportunity any interest in a material contract, proposed material contract or person that is a party to a material contract or proposed material contract with us or any of our subsidiaries.
 
 
·
A duty not to appropriate, divert or personally profit from corporate opportunities. Unless the bye-laws specifically provide otherwise, a director’s fiduciary position precludes him from appropriating, diverting or taking a personal profit from any opportunities that result from the directorship. Our bye-laws do provide an exception to this rule. They provide that any director, any director’s firm or partner, or any company with which any director is associated may act for us in a professional capacity. Such director, firm, partner or company will be entitled to compensation for professional services as if the director were not a member of our board of directors. However, such director, firm, partner or company may not act as our auditor.

 
146

 

Duty of Skill and Care
 
Under the common law, the duty of skill and care has three aspects which may be briefly summarized as follows:
 
 
·
Degree of Skill. A director need not exhibit in the performance of his duties a greater degree of skill than may reasonably be expected from a person of like knowledge and experience.
 
A director is not expected to exercise a level of skill he does not have. The level of skill required of a director is subjective, in that the director is not expected, merely by virtue of the office, to possess any particular skills. Performance must be judged by the way the director applies any skills which he actually has. However, directors ought to acquire and maintain a sufficient knowledge and understanding of the company’s business to enable them to properly discharge their duties as directors.
 
 
·
Attention to the Business. A director must diligently attend to the affairs of the company. In the performance of this duty, a director must at a minimum display the reasonable care an ordinary person would be expected to take in the same circumstances on his own behalf. Mere errors of judgment have been held not to breach the duty of skill and care. A director, as such, is not bound to give continuous attention to the affairs of the company, as his or her duties are of an intermittent nature.
 
 
·
Reliance on Others. A director is not liable for the acts of co-directors or other company officers solely by virtue of the position. A director is entitled to rely on his co-directors or company officers as well as subordinates who are expressly put in charge of attending to the detail of management, provided such reliance is honest and reasonable (although a director cannot absolve himself entirely of responsibility by delegation to others). As a general rule, before delegating responsibility to others, the directors in question should satisfy themselves that the delegates have the requisite skills to discharge the functions delegated to them. In addition, the directors must ensure that there is set up an adequate system of monitoring such delegates (e.g., managers). The directors must, on a regular basis, ensure that their delegates have fulfilled their obligations. The directors should require a regular flow of information from the delegates to ensure that they are carrying out their duties satisfactorily. In addition, section 97(5A) of the Companies Act provides that a director shall not have breached the fiduciary duty or duty of skill and care required by section 97(1) if he relies in good faith upon financial statements of the company represented to him by another director or officer of the company or a report of an attorney, accountant, engineer, appraiser or other person whose profession lends credibility to a statement made by him.
 
 
(2)           Other Statutory Duties and Obligations
 
The Companies Act imposes certain specific duties and obligations on companies and directors, both directly and indirectly, including duties and obligations with respect to (i) loans to directors and related persons, (ii) limits on indemnities for directors and officers and (iii) the keeping of proper books of account.
 
Loans to Directors and Related Persons
 
It is not lawful for a company to make a loan or to enter into a guarantee or provide security in connection with a loan to a director or certain persons related to a director without the consent of the members of the company holding in the aggregate not less than 90% of the total voting rights of all the members having the right to vote at any meeting of the members of the company, except in certain specific circumstances.

 
147

 

Limits on Indemnity for Directors
 
Section 98 of the Companies Act provides generally that a Bermuda company may indemnify its directors, officers and auditors against any liability which, by virtue of any rule of law, would otherwise be imposed on them with respect to any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust. However, this rule does not apply in cases where such liability arises from fraud or dishonesty of which such director, officer or auditor may be guilty in relation to the company or any of its subsidiaries. Any provision, whether contained in the bye-laws of a company or in any contract or arrangement between the company and one of its directors which would exempt such director from, or indemnify him against, any liability that would otherwise attach to him with respect to his fraud or dishonesty in relation to the company will be void. Section 98 further provides that a Bermuda company may indemnify its directors, officers and auditors against any liability incurred by them in defending any proceedings, whether civil or criminal, in which judgment is awarded in their favor or in which they are acquitted or granted relief by the Supreme Court of Bermuda pursuant to section 281 of the Companies Act. In the event that an allegation of fraud or dishonesty is made out, the director is obliged to disgorge any money provided for his defense.
 
Books of Account
 
It is the duty of the directors to cause to be kept proper books of account with respect to all sums of money received and expended by the company and the matters with respect to which the receipts and expenditures take place, all sales and purchases by the company, and the assets and liabilities of the company.
 
 
(C) 
Peruvian Law – Corporate Governance
 
Although we are a holding company whose principal subsidiaries (BCP and PPS) are incorporated under and subject to the laws of Peru, we are registered in Peru as a foreign issuer and are consequently only subject to Peruvian regulations applicable to foreign issuers. There are no corporate governance provisions under Peruvian law applicable to us that are similar to the provisions of Section 303A.

 
148

 

PART III
 
ITEM 17.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Not applicable.
 
 
ITEM 18.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements and the report of the independent public accounting firm in connection therewith are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 20-F, as noted below:
 
   
Page
Index to Credicorp Consolidated Financial Statements
 
F-2
     
Report of Medina, Zaldívar, Paredes & Asociados, members of Ernst & Young Global, Independent Public Accountants
 
F-3
     
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008
 
F-5
     
Consolidated Income Statements for the Three Years in the Period Ended December 31, 2009
 
F-6
     
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the Three Years in the Period Ended December 31, 2009
 
F-9
     
Consolidated Cash Flow Statements for the Three Years in the Period Ended December 31, 2009
 
F-10
     
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
F-12
 
All supplementary schedules relating to the registrant are omitted because they are not required or because the required information, where material, is contained in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
 
149

 
Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 together with the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 
F-1

 

Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2009 and 2008

Content

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
       
         
Consolidated financial statements
       
         
Consolidated statements of financial position
    F-5  
Consolidated statements of income
    F-6  
Consolidated statements of comprehensive income
    F-8  
Consolidated statements of changes in equity
    F-9  
Consolidated statements of cash flows
    F-10  
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
    F-12  
 
F-2

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the shareholders and Board of Directors of Credicorp Ltd.
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position of Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009.  These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States of America). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 
F-3


 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (continued)

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States of America), Credicorp Ltd and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated June 15, 2010, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Lima, Peru,
June 15, 2010

Countersigned by:
 
 
 
Cristian Emmerich
 
C.P.C. Register Nº19-289
 

 
F-4

 
  
Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated statements of financial position
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008
 
   
Note
   
2009
   
2008
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Assets
                 
Cash and due from banks:
 
4
             
Non-interest bearing
          938,486       1,057,416  
Interest bearing
          2,898,172       2,708,755  
            3,836,658       3,766,171  
                       
Investments:
                     
Trading securities
          70,774       36,084  
Investments available-for-sale
 
5
      5,079,606       4,950,754  
            5,150,380       4,986,838  
                       
Loans, net:
 
6
                 
Loans, net of unearned income
          11,585,635       10,546,378  
Allowance for loan losses
          (354,355 )     (224,337 )
            11,231,280       10,322,041  
                       
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
 
7
      135,670       137,945  
Premiums and other policies receivable
 
8(a)
       121,338       111,561  
Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers
 
8(b)
      137,098       165,144  
Property, furniture and equipment, net
 
9
      338,535       329,458  
Due from customers on acceptances
          96,423       232,580  
Seized assets, net
          11,233       11,454  
Intangible assets and goodwill, net
 
10
      341,951       246,957  
Other assets
 
11
      627,541       510,920  
                       
Total assets
          22,028,107       20,821,069  

   
Note
   
2009
   
2008
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Liabilities and equity
                 
Deposits and obligations:
 
12
             
Non-interest bearing
          3,297,995       3,213,529  
Interest bearing
          10,793,833       10,736,908  
            14,091,828       13,950,437  
                       
Due to banks and correspondents
 
13(a)
      1,167,438       1,179,991  
Bankers’ acceptances outstanding
          96,423       232,580  
Accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers
 
8(b)
      48,009       55,841  
Technical reserves, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
 
14
      1,018,791       967,770  
Borrowed funds
 
13(b)
      1,089,221       1,150,716  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
 
15
      1,287,022       785,230  
Other liabilities
 
11
      726,023       702,399  
Total liabilities
          19,524,755       19,024,964  
                       
Equity
 
16
                 
Capital and reserves attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders:
                     
Capital stock
          471,912       471,912  
Treasury stock
          (74,242 )     (73,107 )
Capital surplus
          130,341       140,693  
Reserves
          1,059,344       815,387  
Other reserves
          237,446       (45,393 )
Retained earnings
          492,055       379,680  
            2,316,856       1,689,172  
Minority interest
          186,496       106,933  
                       
Total equity
          2,503,352       1,796,105  
                       
Total liabilities and equity
          22,028,107       20,821,069  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-5

 

Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated statements of income
For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
 
   
Note
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Interest and dividend income
 
20
      1,312,925       1,382,844       1,065,339  
Interest expense
 
20
      (420,564 )     (561,617 )     (431,365 )
Net interest and dividend income
          892,361       821,227       633,974  
                               
Provision for loan losses, net of recoveries
 
6(d)
      (163,392 )     (48,760 )     (28,439 )
                               
Net interest and dividend income after provision for loan losses
          728,969       772,467       605,535  
                               
Other income
                             
Banking services commissions
 
21
      436,819       394,247       324,761  
Net gain on foreign exchange transactions
          87,944       108,709       61,778  
Net gain on sale of securities
          120,932       51,936       46,376  
Net gain on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss
 
7
      42,792       -       65,088  
Other
 
24
      32,144       37,672       24,934  
                               
Total other income
          720,631       592,564       522,937  
                               
Insurance premiums and claims
                             
Net premiums earned
 
22
      424,682       393,903       297,272  
Net claims incurred for life, property and casualty and health insurance contracts
 
23
      (286,458 )     (341,910 )     (238,600 )
                               
Total premiums earned less claims
          138,224       51,993       58,672  

 
F-6

 
 
Consolidated statements of income (continued)
 
   
Note
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Other expenses
                       
Salaries and employees benefits
          (467,116 )     (365,201 )     (409,037 )
Administrative expenses
          (312,256 )     (269,291 )     (206,966 )
Net loss on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss
 
7
      -       (65,364 )     -  
Depreciation and amortization
 
9(a) and 10(a)
      (71,099 )     (57,369 )     (51,013 )
Provision for seized assets
          (64 )     (1,067 )     (3,057 )
Impairment loss on available-for-sale investments
 
5(c)
      (9,825 )     (60,435 )     (5,017 )
Other
 
24
      (96,750 )     (101,876 )     (71,999 )
Total other expenses
          (957,110 )     (920,603 )     (747,089 )
                               
                               
Income before translation result and income tax
          630,714       496,421       440,055  
                               
Translation result
          12,222       (17,650 )     34,627  
Income tax
 
17(b)
      (138,500 )     (109,508 )     (102,287 )
Net income
          504,436       369,263       372,395  
                               
Attributable to:
                             
Equity holders of Credicorp Ltd.
          469,785       357,756       350,735  
Minority interest
          34,651       11,507       21,660  
            504,436       369,263       372,395  
                               
Earnings per share for net income attributable to equity holders of Credicorp Ltd. (in United States dollars):
                             
Basic
 
25
      5.90       4.49       4.40  
                               
Diluted
 
25
      5.90       4.49       4.40  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-7

 
 
Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated statements of comprehensive income
For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
 
   
Note
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Net income
          504,436       369,263       372,395  
Other comprehensive income:
                             
                               
Net gain (loss) on investments available–for-sale
 
16(d)
      268,550       (198,646 )     83,132  
Net movement of cash flow hedge
 
16(d)
      66,024       (81,293 )     (40,371 )
Income tax
 
16(d)
      (5,841 )     21,516       (11,046 )
                               
Other comprehensive income for the year, net of income tax
          328,733       (258,423 )     31,715  
                               
Total comprehensive income for the year, net of income tax
          833,169       110,840       404,110  
                               
Attributable to:
                             
Equity holders of Credicorp Ltd.
          752,624       132,813       382,876  
Minority interest
          80,545       (21,973 )     21,234  
                               
            833,169       110,840       404,110  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-8

 
 
Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated statements of changes in equity
For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
 
   
Attributable to Credicorp´s equity holders
 
   
Number of shares
issued, 
note 25
   
Capital
stock
   
Treasury
stock
   
Capital
surplus
   
Reserves
   
Available-for- sale
investments
reserve
   
Cash flow hedge
reserve
   
Retained earnings
   
Total
   
Minority
interest
   
Total
net equity
 
   
(In thousands of units)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                                   
Balances as of January 1, 2007
    94,382       471,912       (73,107 )     140,693       479,902       144,471       2,938       230,013       1,396,822       136,946       1,533,768  
                                                                                         
Changes in equity for 2007 -
                                                                                       
Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       350,735       350,735       21,660       372,395  
Other comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       72,512       (40,371 )     -       32,141       (426 )     31,715  
Total comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       72,512       (40,371 )     350,735       382,876       21,234       404,110  
Transfer of retained earnings to reserves, note 16(c)
    -       -       -       -       107,316       -       -       (107,316 )     -       -       -  
Cash dividends, note 16(e)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (103,690 )     (103,690 )     -       (103,690 )
Dividends of subsidiaries and other
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       1       1       (18,916 )     (18,915 )
Balances as of December 31, 2007
    94,382       471,912       (73,107 )     140,693       587,218       216,983       (37,433 )     369,743       1,676,009       139,264       1,815,273  
                                                                                         
Changes in equity for 2008 -
                                                                                       
Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       357,756       357,756       11,507       369,263  
Other comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       (144,254 )     (80,689 )     -       (224,943 )     (33,480 )     (258,423 )
Total comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       (144,254 )     (80,689 )     357,756       132,813       (21,973 )     110,840  
Transfers of retained earnings to reserves, note 16(c)
    -       -       -       -       228,169       -       -       (228,169 )     -       -       -  
Cash dividends, note 16(e)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (119,648 )     (119,648 )     -       (119,648 )
Dividends of subsidiaries and other
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (2 )     (2 )     (10,358 )     (10,360 )
Balances as of December 31, 2008
    94,382       471,912       (73,107 )     140,693       815,387       72,729       (118,122 )     379,680       1,689,172       106,933       1,796,105  
                                                                                         
Changes in equity for 2009 -
                                                                                       
Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       469,785       469,785       34,651       504,436  
Other comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       216,248       66,591       -       282,839       45,894       328,733  
Total comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       216,248       66,591       469,785       752,624       80,545       833,169  
Transfer of retained earnings to reserves, note 16(c)
    -       -       -       -       238,107       -       -       (238,107 )     -       -       -  
Cash dividends, note 16(e)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (119,303 )     (119,303 )     -       (119,303 )
Purchase of treasury stock
    -       -       (1,135 )     (10,352 )     -       -       -       -       (11,487 )     -       (11,487 )
Share-based payments transactions, note 18(b)
    -       -       -       -       5,850       -       -       -       5,850       -       5,850  
Dividends of subsidiaries and other
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (982 )     (982 )
                                                                                         
Balances as of December 31, 2009
    94,382       471,912       (74,242 )     130,341       1,059,344       288,977       (51,531 )     492,055       2,316,856       186,496       2,503,352  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 
F-9

 
 
Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Consolidated statements of cash flows
For the years ended December 2009, 2008 and 2007
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net income
    504,436       369,263       372,395  
Add (deduct)
                       
Provision  for loan losses
    163,392       48,760       28,439  
Depreciation and amortization
    71,099       57,369       51,013  
Provision for seized assets
    64       1,067       3,057  
Provision for sundry risks
    14,425       37,549       8,096  
Deferred income tax
    (8,552 )     (4,394 )     (14,921 )
Net gain on sales of securities available-for-sale
    (120,932 )     (51,936 )     (46,376 )
Impairment loss on available-for-sale investments
    9,825       60,435       5,017  
Net (gain) loss  on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss
    (42,792 )     65,364       (65,088 )
Gain on sales of property, furniture and equipment
    (388 )     (979 )     (42 )
Translation result
    (12,222 )     17,650       (34,627 )
Loss (gain) for shared-based compensation plan
    56,338       (27,402 )     68,332  
(Sale) purchase  of trading securities, net
    (34,690 )     14,911       (5,859 )
Net changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
Increase in loans
    (944,021 )     (2,339,675 )     (2,172,418 )
Decrease (Increase) in other assets
    8,186       (463,273 )     (404,175 )
Increase in deposits and obligations
    139,929       2,614,020       2,269,568  
(Decrease) increase in due to banks and correspondents
    (151,781 )     (274,714 )     875,447  
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities
    (141,027 )     328,204       402,631  
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
    (488,711 )     452,219       1,340,489  
                         
Cash flows from investing activities
                       
Acquisition of subsidiary net of cash received, note 2
    (92,329 )     -       -  
Net sale (purchase) of investments available-for-sale
    284,371       125,416       (1,541,621 )
Purchase of property, furniture and equipment
    (45,051 )     (91,353 )     (53,901 )
Sales of property, furniture and equipment
    2,745       1,775       951  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    149,736       35,838       (1,594,571 )

 
F-10

 

Consolidated statements of cash flow (continued)
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Cash flows from financing activities
                 
Issuance of bonds and subordinated debt
    564,170       257,509       256,014  
Redemption of bonds and subordinated debt
    (53,396 )     (190,402 )     (75,728 )
Increase in borrowed funds
    -       300,000       499,792  
Payments of borrowed funds
    (61,495 )     (19,688 )     -  
Acquisition of Credicorp’s shares
    (11,487 )     -       -  
Cash dividends
    (119,303 )     (119,648 )     (103,690 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
    318,489       227,771       576,388  
                         
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    (20,486 )     715,828       322,306  
                         
Translation (loss) gain on cash and cash equivalents
    90,973       (23,522 )     18,029  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
    3,766,171       3,073,865       2,733,530  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
    3,836,658       3,766,171       3,073,865  
                         
Supplementary cash flows information:
                       
Cash paid during the year for -
                       
Interest
    444,398       533,861       415,157  
Income tax
    142,516       124,754       86,754  
Cash received during the year for -
                       
Interest
    1,315,704       1,361,143       1,106,972  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-11

 

Credicorp Ltd. and Subsidiaries
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008
 
  1.
Operations
Credicorp Ltd. (hereinafter “Credicorp” or “the Group”) is a limited liability company incorporated in Bermuda in 1995 to act as a holding company and to coordinate the policies and administration of its subsidiaries.  It is also engaged in investing activities.

Credicorp Ltd., through its banking and non-banking subsidiaries, provides a wide range of financial services and products throughout Peru and in certain other countries (Bolivia and Panama).  Its major subsidiary is Banco de Crédito del Perú (hereinafter “BCP” or the “Bank”), a Peruvian universal bank.  Credicorp’s address is Claredon House 2 Church Street Hamilton, Bermuda; likewise, administration offices of its representative in Peru are located in Calle Centenario Nº156, La Molina, Lima, Peru.

Credicorp is listed in Lima and New York stock exchanges.

The consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008 were approved in the General Shareholders’ meeting held on March 31, 2009.  The accompanying consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2009, were approved by the Board of Directors Meeting of February 24, 2010 and by the General Shareholders’ Meeting of March 31, 2010, without modifications.

  2.
Acquisition of Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A.
During October and November 2009, Credicorp, through its subsidiary BCP, acquired 99.78% of the capital stock of Empresa Financiera Edyficar S.A. (a Peruvian financial entity, serving micro and small size entrepreneurs) for approximately US$96.1 million in cash.

 
F-12

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
The acquisition of Edyficar was recorded using the purchase method, as required by IFRS 3, “Business Combinations”.  Assets and liabilities were recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date, including the identified intangible assets unrecorded in Edyficar balance sheet. Book value and fair value of the identified assets and liabilities were as follows:

   
Book value
   
Fair value
adjustments
   
Fair value of the
entity acquired
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Assets -
                 
Cash and due from banks
    3,810       -       3,810  
Loans, net
    218,218       (10,295 )     207,923  
Client relationships, note 10(a)
    -       6,574       6,574  
Fixed assets, net
    8,255       -       8,255  
Brand name, note 10(a)
    -       13,159       13,159  
Goodwill, note 10(b)
    -       50,696       50,696  
Other assets
    11,802       3,263       15,065  
                         
Liabilities -
                       
Obligations
    38,590       -       38,590  
Due to banks
    138,257       -       138,257  
Deferred income tax liability
    -       6,611       6,611  
Other liabilities
    25,054       831       25,885  
                         
Net acquired assets
    40,184       55,955       96,139  

3.
Significant accounting policies
Significant accounting principles used in the preparation of Credicorp’s consolidated financial statements are set out below and were consistently applied to all of the years presented.

 
(a)
Basis of presentation and use of estimates -
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).   The consolidated financial statements were prepared on a historical cost basis, except for available-for-sale investments, derivative financial instruments, share-based payment liability and financial assets and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss, which were measured at fair value.  The consolidated financial statements are presented in United States Dollars (US$), and all values are rounded to the nearest US$ thousand, except when otherwise indicated.

 
F-13

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of significant events in notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the current circumstances.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  The most significant estimates comprised in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are related to the computation of the allowance for loan losses, the measurement of financial instruments, the technical reserves for claims and premiums, the provision for seized assets, the valuation of derivatives, and the deferred tax assets and liabilities.  The accounting criteria used for each of these items are described in this note.

The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous year, except that the Group has adopted those new IFRS and revised IAS mandatory for years beginning on or after January 1, 2009.  The adoption of the new and revised standards did not have a significant effect on the accompanying consolidated financial statements; therefore, it has not been necessary to amend the comparative figures.  In summary:

 
-
IFRS 2 “Share-based Payments - Vesting conditions and cancellations”, the standard restricts the definition of “vesting condition” to a condition that includes an explicit or implicit requirement to provide services. The indicated definition does not impact the accounting for the Group’s share-based payment agreements.

 
-
IFRS 7 “Financial Instruments: Disclosures” (Amendments). The amended standard requires additional disclosures covering fair value measurement and liquidity risk.  Fair value measurements related to items recorded at fair value are to be disclosed by source of inputs using a three level fair value hierarchy, by class, for all financial instrument recognized at fair value.  In addition, reconciliation between the beginning and ending balance for level 3 fair value measurements is now required, as well as significant transfers between levels in the fair value hierarchy.  The amendments also clarify the requirements for liquidity risk disclosures with respect to derivative transactions and assets used for liquidity management.  The fair value measurement disclosures are presented in Note 29.7.  The liquidity risk disclosures are not significantly impacted by the amendments and are presented in Note 29.3.

 
-
IFRS 8 “Operating Segments”, the standard adopts a full management approach identifying, measuring and disclosing the results of its operating segments. The Group concluded that operating segments determined in accordance with IFRS 8 are the same as the business segments previously identified under IAS 14.  IFRS 8 disclosures are shown in Note 26.

 
-
IAS 1 (Revised) “Presentation of Financial Statements”. The revised standard separates owner and non-owner changes in equity. The statement of changes in equity includes only details of transactions with owners, with non-owner changes in equity presented in a reconciliation of each component of equity.  In addition, the standard introduces the statement of comprehensive income: it presents all items of recognized income and expense, either in one single statement, or in two linked statements. The Group has elected to present two statements.
 
F-14

 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
-
IAS 23 (Amendment) “Borrowing Costs”. The revised standard eliminates the option of expensing all borrowing costs and requires borrowing costs to be capitalized if they are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset.
This amendment did not have any impact on the Group´s consolidated financial statement.

 
-
IAS 32 “Financial Instruments: Presentation” and IAS 1 “Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising on Liquidation”.  The standards have been amended to allow a limited scope exception for puttable financial instruments to be classified as equity if they fulfill a number of specified criteria. These amendments did not have any impact on the Group’s financial position or performance.

 
-
IFRIC 9 “Reassessment of embedded derivatives and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement - Embedded Derivatives” (Amendments).  This amendment requires an entity to assess whether an embedded derivative must be separated from a host contract when the entity reclassifies a hybrid financial asset out of the fair value through profit or loss category.  This assessment is to be made based on circumstances that existed on the later of the date the entity first became a party to the contract and the date of any contract amendments that significantly change the cash flows of the contract.  IAS 39 now states that if an embedded derivative cannot be reliably measured, the entire hybrid instrument must remain classified as at fair value through profit or loss.  This interpretation did not have any impact in the Group’s consolidated financial statement.

 
-
IFRIC 13 “Customer Loyalty Programs”.  The interpretation requires loyalty award credits granted to customers in connection with a sales transaction to be accounted for as a separate component of the sales transaction.  This interpretation did not have any significant impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statement.

 
-
IFRIC 15 “Agreement for the Construction of Real State”.  It clarifies when and how revenue and related expenses from the sale of a real estate unit should be recognized if an agreement between a developer and a buyer is reached before the construction of the real estate is completed. This interpretation did not have any impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

 
-
IFRIC 16 “Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation”.  This interpretation provides guidance on the accounting for a hedge of a net investment. This interpretation did not have any impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

 
-
Improvements to IFRSs
In May 2008 the IABS issued its first omnibus of amendments to its standards, primarily with a view to removing inconsistencies and clarifying wording.  There are separate transitional provisions for each standard. The adoption of the new amendments resulted in minor changes to accounting policies, but did not have any impact on the financial position or performance of the Group.
 
F-15


Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
(b)
Consolidation -
Subsidiaries:
Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) in which the Group has the power to govern their financial and operating policies.  This situation is generally evidenced by controlling more than one half of the voting rights.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which effective control is transferred to the Group and are no longer consolidated from the date control ceases.  The consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of Credicorp and its Subsidiaries.  Transactions between the Group’s entities, including balances, gains or losses are eliminated.

Acquisition of a subsidiary is recorded using the purchase method of accounting.  The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets received, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of acquisition, plus directly attributable cost.  The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets and intangible assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

Assets in custody or managed by the Group, such as investment funds and private pension funds (AFP funds), are not part of the group’s consolidated financial statements, note 3(z).

Net equity attributable to the minority interest is presented in the consolidated statements of financial position.  Income attributable to the minority interest is presented separately in the consolidated income statements and the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

 
F-16

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
Associates:
An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence but not control.  Investments in these entities represent shareholding between 20 and 50 percent of the voting rights; and are recognized initially at cost and then are accounted for by the “equity method”.  The Group does not have significant investments in associates; therefore, they are included in the caption “Other assets” in the consolidated statements of financial position; gains resulting from the use of the equity method of accounting are included in the caption “Other income” of the consolidated income statement.

Minority interest:
Transactions with minority interests are treated as transactions with third parties.  Disposals of minority interests result in gains or losses which are recorded in the consolidated income statement.  Purchases from minority interests result in goodwill, which is the difference between any consideration paid and the carrying value of the subsidiary’s net assets.

 
F-17

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the following entities comprise the Group (individual financial statements data is presented in accordance with IFRS and before eliminations for consolidation purposes, except for the elimination of Credicorp´s treasury stock and its related dividends):

Entity
 
Percentage of participation (direct
and indirect)
   
Assets
   
Liabilities
   
Equity
   
Net income (loss)
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
%
   
%
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                             
Banco de Crédito del Perú and Subsidiaries (i)
   
97.41
     
97.41
      19,563,309       18,514,133       17,886,706       17,112,683       1,676,603       1,401,450       397,378       423,529  
Atlantic Security Holding Corporation and Subsidiaries (ii)
   
100.00
     
100.00
      1,483,811       1,453,915       1,269,175       1,360,471       214,636       93,444       29,716       (50,395 )
El Pacífico Peruano-Suiza Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros and Subsidiaries (iii)
   
75.98
     
75.74
      1,496,709       1,307,547       1,190,799       1,155,405       305,910       152,142       49,192       (20,994 )
Grupo Crédito S.A. and Subsidiaries (iv)
   
99.99
     
100.00
      376,949       335,854       159,767       101,748       217,182       234,106       26,556       18,271  
CCR Inc. (v)
   
99.99
     
99.99
      1,089,659       1,152,336       1,152,537       1,247,465       (62,878 )     (95,129 )     (1,289 )     138  
Credicorp Securities Inc. (vi)
   
99.99
     
99.99
      4,639       2,851       402       470       4,237       2,381       1,867       549  
BCP Emisiones Latam 1 S.A. (vii)
   
100.00
     
-
      115,127       -       114,356       -       771       -       (329 )     -  

 
(i)
Banco de Crédito (BCP) is a universal bank incorporated in Peru in 1889.  Its activities are supervised by the Superintendence of Banking, Insurance and AFP (the Peruvian banking, insurance and AFP authority, hereafter “the SBS” for its Spanish acronym).  During 2009 and 2008, Credicorp acquired 0.002 percent and 0.08 percent of BCP shares, respectively, owned by minority interest. The consolidated financial statements of Banco de Crédito del Perú and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009, include the financial statement of Edyficar, see note 2.  BCP and Subsidiaries hold as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, 95.92 percent of the capital stock of Banco de Crédito de Bolivia (BCB), a universal bank operating in Bolivia (Credicorp holds 4.08 percent).  As of December 31, 2009, BCB´s assets, liabilities, equity, income and net income amounted to US$1,097.8, US$991.2, US$106.6, US$108.3 and US$28.7 million, respectively (US$939.8, US$831.6, US$108.2, US$117.7 and US$44.5 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

 
(ii)
Atlantic Security Holding Corporation (ASHC) is incorporated in the Cayman Islands; its main activity is to invest in capital stock.  Its most significant subsidiary is Atlantic Security Bank (ASB), which is incorporated in the Cayman Islands, and operates through branches and offices in Grand Cayman and the Republic of Panama; its main activity is private and institutional banking services and trustee administration.

 
(iii)
El Pacífico Peruano-Suiza Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros (PPS) is incorporated in Peru, provides property, casualty, life, health and personal insurance.  Its main subsidiaries are El Pacífico Vida Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A. and Pacífico S.A.  Entidad Prestadora de Salud (EPS), holding 62.0 percent and 100.00 percent, respectively, of their capital stock.  PPS and its subsidiaries activities are supervised by the SBS.

 
(iv)
Grupo Crédito S.A. is incorporated in Peru, its main activity is to invest in listed and not listed securities in Peru.  Its main subsidiary is Prima AFP, a private pension fund administrator incorporated in Perú, whose activities are supervised by the SBS.  As of December 31, 2009, Prima AFP total assets, liabilities and net income amounted to US$249.8, US$87.9, and U$20.8 million, respectively (US$225.6 million, US$96.3 million and US$ 11.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

 
(v)
CCR Inc., is a special purposes entity incorporated in The Bahamas in 2001, its main activity is to manage certain loans granted to BCP by foreign financial entities, note 13(b).  These loans are collateralized by transactions performed by BCP.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the negative equity is generated by unrealized losses of cash flow hedge derivatives, as it is explained in notes 11(b)(ii) and 16(c) .

 
(vi)
Credicorp Securities Inc., is incorporated in the United States of America and began operations on January, 2003; it provides securities brokerage services, mainly to retail customers in Latin America.

 
(vii)
BCP Emisiones Latam 1 S.A., is a special purposes entity incorporated in Chile in 2009, through which the Group issued corporate bonds, see note 15(a)(i).

 
F-18

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
(c)
Foreign currency translation -
The Group has determined that its functional and presentation currency is the United States Dollar (U.S. Dollar or US$), because it reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances relevant to the Group; insofar as its main operations and/or transactions in the different countries where the Group operates; such as: loans granted, financing obtained, sale of insurance premiums, interest income and expense, and that an important percentage of wages and purchases are established and settled in U.S. Dollars.

Financial statements of each of Credicorp’s subsidiaries are measured using the currency of the country in which each entity operates and are translated into U.S. Dollars (functional and presentation currency) as follows:

 
-
Monetary assets and liabilities are translated at the free market exchange rate at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.

 
-
Non-monetary accounts are translated at the free market exchange rate prevailing at the transaction date.

 
-
Income and expenses, except for those related to non-monetary assets which are translated at the free market exchange rate prevailing at the transaction date, are translated monthly at the average monthly exchange rate.

All resulting translation differences are recognized in the consolidated income statement.

(d)
Income and expense recognition from banking activities -
Interest income and expense for all interest-bearing financial instruments, including those related to financial instruments classified as held for trading or designated at fair value through profit or loss, are recognized within “Interest and dividend income” and “Interest expense” in the consolidated income statement using the effective interest rate, which is the rate that discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the net carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability.

Interest income is suspended when collection of loans become doubtful, i.e. when loans are overdue more than 90 days or when the borrower or securities’ issuer defaults, if earlier than 90 days; such income is excluded from interest income until collected.  Uncollected income on such loans is provisioned. When Management determines that the debtor’s financial condition has improved, the recording of interest thereon is reestablished on an accrual basis.

Interest income includes coupons earned on fixed income investment and trading securities and the accrued discount and premium on financial instruments.  Dividends are recognized as income when they are declared.
 
F-19


Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
Fees and commission income are recognized on an accrual basis when earned.  Contingent credit fees for loans that are likely to be drawn down and other credit related fees are deferred (together with any direct incremental costs) and recognized as an adjustment to the effective interest rate on the loan.

All other revenues and expenses are recognized on an accrual basis.

(e)
Insurance activities -
Product classification:
Insurance contracts are those contracts when the Group (the insurer) has accepted significant insurance risk from another party (the policyholder) by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain future event (the insured event) adversely affects the policyholder. This definition also includes reinsurance contracts that the Group holds.  As a general guideline, the Group determines whether it has significant insurance risk by comparing benefits paid with benefits payable if the insured event did not occur. Insurance contracts can also transfer financial risk.

Once a contract has been classified as an insurance contract, it remains an insurance contract for the remainder of its lifetime, even if the insurance risk reduces significantly during this period, unless all rights and obligations are extinguished or expire. Investment contracts can however be reclassified as insurance contracts after inception if insurance risk becomes significant.

Reinsurance:
The Group cedes insurance risk in the normal course of business for all of its businesses. Reinsurance assets represent balances due from reinsurance companies. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the outstanding claims provision or settled claims associated with the reinsurer’s policies and are in accordance with the related reinsurance contract.

Reinsurance assets are reviewed for impairment at each reporting date or more frequently when an indication of impairment arises during the reporting year.  Impairment occurs when there is objective evidence as a result of an event that occurred after initial recognition of the reinsurance asset that the Group may not receive all outstanding amounts due under the terms of the contract and the event has a reliably measureable impact on the amounts that the Group will receive from the reinsurer.  The impairment loss is recorded in the consolidated income statement.

Gains or losses on buying reinsurance are recognized in the consolidated income statement immediately at the date of purchase and are not amortized.

Ceded reinsurance arrangements do not relieve the Group from its obligations to a policyholder.

The Group also assumes reinsurance risk in the normal course of business for non-life insurance contracts when applicable.  Premiums and claims on assumed reinsurance are recognized as revenue or expenses in the same manner as they would be if the reinsurance were considered direct business, taking into account the product classification of the reinsured business.

 
F-20

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Reinsurance liabilities represent balances due to reinsurance companies.  Amounts payable are estimated in a manner consistent with the related reinsurance contract.

Premiums and claims are presented on a gross basis for both ceded and assumed reinsurance, see note 22 and 23.  Reinsurance assets or liabilities are derecognized when the contractual rights are extinguished or expire or when the contract is transferred to another party.

Insurance receivables
Insurance receivables are recognized when due and measured on initial recognition at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Subsequent to initial recognition, insurance receivables are measured at amortized cost. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the carrying value of the insurance receivables is similar to its fair value due to its liquidity and its short term.  The carrying value of insurance receivables is reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable, with the impairment loss recorded in the consolidated income statement. Insurance receivables are derecognized when the derecognition criteria for financial assets, as described in Note 3(g), has been met.

“Unit- Linked” investment
“Unit- Linked” investment represent assets held for purposes of funding life and insurance contracts and for which investment income and investment gains and losses accrue directly to the policyholders who bear the investment risk.  Each account has specific objectives, and the assets are carried at fair value.  The balance of each account is legally segregated and is not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Group.  The liabilities for these accounts are equal to the account assets.

Deferred acquisition costs (DAC):
Those direct and indirect costs incurred during the financial period arising from the writing or renewing of insurance contracts, are deferred to the extent that these costs are recoverable out of future premiums.  All other acquisition costs are recognized as an expense when incurred.

Subsequent to initial recognition, these costs are amortized on a straight line basis based on the term of expected future premiums, which typically varies between 5 and 11 years for life insurance contracts and is normally 1 year for non-life insurance contracts. Amortization is recorded in the consolidated income statement.

Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are accounted for by changing the amortization period and are treated as a change in an accounting estimate.

 
F-21

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

An impairment review is performed at each reporting date or more frequently when an indication of impairment arises.  When the recoverable amounts is less than the carrying value an impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement.  DAC is also considered in the liability adequacy test for each reporting period.

DAC are derecognized when the related contracts are either settled or disposed of.

Reinsurance commissions:
Commissions receivable on outwards reinsurance contracts are deferred and amortized on a straight line basis over the term of the expected premiums payable.

Insurance contract liabilities:
 
(i)
Life insurance contracts liabilities
Life insurance liabilities are recognized when contracts are entered into and premiums are charged. These liabilities are measured by using the net premium method. The liability is determined as the sum of the discounted value of the expected future benefits, claims handling and policy administration expenses, policyholder options and guarantees and investment income from assets backing such liabilities, which are directly related to the contract, less the discounted value of the expected theoretical premiums that would be required to meet the future cash outflows based on the valuation assumptions used. The liability is either based on current assumptions or calculated using the assumptions established at the time the contract was issued, in which case a margin for risk and adverse deviation is generally included.  A separate reserve for longevity may be established and included in the measurement of the liability. Furthermore, the liability for life insurance contracts comprises the provision for unearned premiums and unexpired risks, as well as for claims outstanding, which includes an estimate of the incurred claims that have not yet been reported to the Group.  Adjustments to the liabilities at each reporting date are recorded in the consolidated income statement.  Profits originated from margins of adverse deviations on run-off contracts, are recognized in the consolidated income statement over the life of the contract, whereas losses are fully recognized in the consolidated income statement during the first year of run-off. The liability is derecognized when the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled.
At each reporting date, an assessment is made of whether the recognized life insurance liabilities are adequate, net of related DAC, by using an existing liability adequacy test as laid out under IFRS 4.

 
(ii)
Non-life insurance (which comprises general insurance and healthcare) contract liabilities
Non-life insurance contract liabilities are recognized when contracts are entered into and premiums are charged.  These liabilities are known as the outstanding claims provision, which are based on the estimated ultimate cost of all claims incurred but not settled at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position, whether reported or not, together with related claims handling costs and reduction for the expected value of salvage and other recoveries.  Delays can be experienced in the notification and settlement of certain types of claims, therefore the ultimate cost of these cannot be known with certainty at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.  Incurred but non-reported claims (hereafter “IBNR”) are estimated and included in the provision (liabilities).  IBNR reserves as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, were determined on the basis of the Bornhuetter - Ferguson methodology – BF (a generally accepted actuarial method), which considers a statistical analysis of the recorded loss history, the use of projection methods and, when appropriate, qualitative factors that reflect present conditions or trends that could affect historical data. No provision for equalization or catastrophe reserves is recognized. The liabilities are derecognized when the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled.

 
F-22

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The provision for unearned premiums represents premiums received for risks that have not yet expired.  Generally the reserve is released over the term of the contract and is recognized as premium income.

At each reporting date the Group reviews its unexpired risk and a liability adequacy test is performed as laid out under IFRS 4 to determine whether there is any overall excess of expected claims and DAC over unearned premiums. This calculation uses current estimates of future contractual cash flows after taking account of the investment return expected to arise on assets relating to the relevant nonlife insurance technical provisions. If these estimates show that the carrying amount of the unearned premiums (less related deferred acquisition costs) is inadequate the deficiency is recognized in the consolidated income statement by setting up a provision for liability adequacy.

Income recognition:
 
(i)
Gross premiums
Gross recurring premiums on life contracts are recognized as revenue when payable by the policyholder. For single premium business revenue is recognized on the date on which the policy is effective.

Gross general insurance written premiums comprise the total premiums receivable for the whole period of cover provided by contracts entered into during the accounting period and are recognized on the date on which the policy incepts. Premiums include any adjustments arising in the accounting period for premiums receivable in respect of business written in prior accounting periods.

Unearned premiums are those proportions of premiums written in a year that relate to periods of risk after the date of the consolidated statements of financial position. Unearned premiums are calculated on a daily pro rata basis. The proportion attributable to subsequent periods is deferred as a provision for unearned premiums.

 
(ii)
Reinsurance premiums
Gross reinsurance premiums on life contracts are recognized as an expense when payable or on the date on which the policy is effective.

Gross general reinsurance premiums written comprise the total premiums payable for the whole cover provided by contracts entered into the period and are recognized on the date on which the policy incepts. Premiums include any adjustments arising in the accounting period in respect of reinsurance contracts incepting in prior accounting periods.

 
F-23

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Unearned reinsurance premiums are those proportions of premiums written in a year that relate to periods of risk after the date of the consolidated statements of financial position. Unearned reinsurance premiums are deferred over the term of the underlying direct insurance policies for risks-attaching contracts and over the term of the reinsurance contract for losses-occurring contracts.

 
(iii)
Fees and commission income
Insurance contract policyholders are charged for policy administration services, investment
management services, surrenders and other contract fees. These fees are recognized as revenue over the period in which the related services are performed. If the fees are for services provided in future periods then they are deferred and recognized over those future periods.

Benefits, claims and expenses recognition:
 
(i)
Gross benefits and claims
Gross benefits and claims for life insurance contracts include the cost of all claims arising during the year including internal and external claims handling costs that are directly related to the processing and settlement of claims.  Death claims and surrenders are recorded on the basis of notifications received. Maturities and annuity payments are recorded when due.

General insurance and health claims includes all claims occurring during the year, whether reported or not, related internal and external claims handling costs that are directly related to the processing and settlement of claims, a reduction for the value of salvage and other recoveries, and any adjustments to claims outstanding from previous years.

 
(ii)
Reinsurance claims
Reinsurance claims are recognized when the related gross insurance claim is recognized according to the terms of the relevant contract.

 
(f)
Financial Instruments: Initial recognition and subsequent measurement -
The Group classifies its financial instruments in one of the categories defined by IAS 39:  financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss; loans and receivables; available-for-sale financial investments and other financial liabilities.  The Group determines the classification of its financial instruments at initial recognition.

The classification of financial instruments at initial recognition depends on the purpose and the management intention for which the financial instruments were acquired and their characteristics.  All financial instruments are measured initially at their fair value plus, any directly attributable incremental cost of acquisition or issue, except in the case of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded at fair value through profit or loss.

 
F-24

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation or convention in the marketplace (regular way trades) are recognized on the trade date, i.e. the date that the Group commits to purchase or sell the asset.  Derivatives are recognized on a trade date basis.

 
(i)
Financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss:
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss includes financial assets held for trading and financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss, which designation is upon initial recognition and in an instrument by instrument basis.   Derivatives are also categorized as held for trading unless they are designated as hedging instruments.

Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term, and are presented in the caption “Trading securities” of the consolidated statements of financial position.

Management may only designate an instrument at fair value through profit or loss upon initial recognition when the following criteria are met:

 
-
the designation eliminates or significantly reduces the inconsistent treatment that would otherwise arise from measuring assets or liabilities or recognizing gains or losses on them on a different basis; or
 
-
the assets and liabilities are part of a group of financial assets, financial liabilities or both which are managed and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy; or

 
-
the financial instrument contains one or more embedded derivatives, which significantly modify the cash flows that otherwise would be required by the contract.

Changes in fair value of designated financial assets through profit or loss are recorded in the consolidated income statement caption “Net gain on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss”.  Interest earned or incurred is accrued in the consolidated income statement in the captions “Interest and dividend income” or “Interest expense”, respectively, according to the terms of the contract.  Dividend income is recorded when the collection right has been established.

 
(ii)
Loans and receivables:
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market, other than: those that the entity intend to sell immediately or in the short term, those that the entity upon initial recognition designates as available for sale; or those for which the holder may not recover substantially all of its initial investment, other than because of credit deterioration.

 
F-25

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

After initial measurement, loans and receivables are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, less any allowance for impairment.  Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees and costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate.  The effective interest rate amortization is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Interest and dividend income”. Losses from impairment are recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Provision for loan losses”.

Direct loans are recorded when disbursement of funds to the clients are made.  Indirect (off-balance sheet) loans are recorded when documents supporting such facilities are issued.  Likewise, Credicorp considers as refinanced or restructured those loans that change their payment schedules due to difficulties in the debtor’s ability to repay the loan.

An allowance for loan losses is established if there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms of the loan.  The allowance for loan losses is established based in the internal risk classification and considering any guarantees and collaterals received, note 3(i) and 29.1.
 
 
F-26

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(iii)
Available-for-sale financial investments:
Available-for-sale financial investments are non derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale (to be held for an indefinite period, which may be sold in response to liquidity needs or changes in the interest rates, exchange rates or equity price); or are not classified as (a) financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, (b) held-to-maturity or (c) loans and receivables.

After initial recognition, available-for-sale financial investments are measured at fair value with unrealized gains or losses recognized as other comprehensive income in the available-for-sale reserve, net of its corresponding deferred tax and minority interest, until the investment is derecognized, at which time the cumulative gain or loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Net gain on sale of securities”, or determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Impairment loss on available–for–sale investments” and removed from the available-for-sale reserve.

Interest and dividends earned are recognized in the consolidated income statement in the caption “Interest and dividend income”.  Interest earned is reported as interest income using the effective interest rate and dividends earned are recognized when collection rights are established.

Estimated fair values are based primarily on quoted prices or, if quoted market prices are not available, discounted expected cash flows using market rates commensurate with the credit quality and maturity of the investment.

When the Group is unable to sell these financial assets due to inactive markets and Management’s intent to sell them in the foreseeable future significantly changes, the Group may elect to reclassify these financial assets only in rare circumstances.  Reclassification to loans and receivables is permitted when the financial asset meets the definition of loans and receivables and has the intent and ability to hold these assets for the foreseeable future or until maturity.  The reclassification to held to maturity category is permitted only when the entity has the ability and intent to hold the financial asset until maturity.

As of December, 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group did not reclassify any of its available-for- sale financial investments.

 
(iv)
Other financial liabilities:
After initial measurement, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.  Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any issuance discount or premium and costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate.

 
F-27

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(g)
Derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities -
Financial assets:
A financial asset (or, where applicable a part of a financial asset or a part of a group of similar financial assets) is derecognized when: (i) the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or (ii) the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a “pass-through” arrangement; and (iii) either the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or the Group has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

Financial liabilities:
A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires.  When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability, any resulting difference in the respective carrying amount is recognized as profit or loss.

 
(h)
Offsetting financial instruments -
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the consolidated statements of financial position when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and Management has the intention to settle on a net basis, or realize the assets and settle the liability simultaneously.

 
(i)
Impairment of financial assets -
The Group assesses at each date of the consolidated statements of financial position date whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired.  A financial asset or a group of financial assets is deemed to be impaired if, and only if, there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (an incurred loss event) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated.  Evidence of impairment may include indications that the borrower or a group of borrowers is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will go bankrupt or other legal financial reorganization process and where observable data indicate that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.  Criteria used for each category of financial assets is as follows:

 
F-28

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(i)
Loans and receivables:
For loans and receivables that are carried at amortized cost, the Group first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively, for financial assets that are not individually significant.  If the Group determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them for impairment.  Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognized are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future expected credit losses that have not yet been incurred).  The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized in the consolidated income statement.  Interest income, if applicable, is accrued on the reduced carrying amount based on the original effective interest rate of the asset.  Loans, together with the associated allowance, are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realized or has been transferred to the Group.  If in a subsequent year, the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or decreases because of an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account.  If in the future a write-off is later recovered, the recovery is recognized in the consolidated income statements, as a credit to the caption “Provision for loan losses”.

The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.  If a loan has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate.  The calculation of the present value of the estimated future cash flows of a collateralized financial asset reflects the cash flows that may result from foreclosure less costs for obtaining and selling the collateral, whether or not foreclosure is probable.

For a collective evaluation impairment, financial assets are grouped considering the Group’s internal credit grading system, which considers credit risk characteristics; i.e. asset type, industry, geographical location, collateral type and past-due status.

Future cash flows from a group of financial assets that are collectively evaluated for impairment are estimated on the basis of historical loss experience for assets with similar credit risk characteristics to those in the group.  Historical loss experience is adjusted on the basis of current observable data to reflect the effects of current conditions that did not affect the years on which the historical loss experience is based and to remove the effects of conditions in the historical period that do not currently exists.  The methodology and assumptions used are reviewed regularly to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience.

 
F-29

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(ii)
Available-for-sale financial investments:
For available-for-sale financial investments, the Group assesses at each date of the consolidated statements of financial position whether there is objective evidence that an investment or a group of investments is impaired.

In the case of equity investments, objective evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost.  “Significant” is to be evaluated against the original cost of the investment and “prolonged” against the period in which the fair value has been below its original cost.  Where there is evidence of impairment, the cumulative loss (measured as the difference between the acquisition cost and the current fair value, less any previously recognized impairment loss) is removed from available-for-sale reserve and recognized in the consolidated income statement.  Impairment losses on equity investments are not reversed through the consolidated income statement; increases in their fair value after impairment are recognized directly in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

In the case of debt instruments, impairment is assessed based on the same criteria as financial assets carried at amortized cost (loans and receivables).  However, the amount recorded for impairment is the cumulative loss measured as the difference between the amortized cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that investment previously recognized in the consolidated income statement.  Future interest income is based on the reduced carrying amount and is accrued using the interest rate used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose of measuring the impairment loss.  Interest income is recorded as part of “Interest and dividend income”.  If in a subsequent year, the fair value of a debt instrument increases and the increase can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized in the consolidated income statement, the impairment loss is reversed through the consolidated income statement.

 
(iii)
Renegotiated loans:
Where possible, the Group seeks to refinance or restructure loans rather than to take possession of collateral.  This may involve extending the payment arrangements and the agreement of new loan conditions.  Once the terms have been renegotiated, the loan is no longer considered past due.  Management continuously reviews refinanced and restructured loans to ensure that all criteria are met and that future payments are likely to occur.  Renegotiated loans continue to be subject to an individual or collective impairment assessment, calculated using the loan’s original effective interest rate.
 
(j)
Leases -
The determination of whether an arrangement is, or contains, a lease is based in the substance of the arrangement at inception date: whether fulfillment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets on the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset.

 
F-30

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Operating leases:
Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and benefits of the asset are hold by the lessor are classified as operating leases.  Under this concept the Group has mainly leases used as BCP’s branches.

When an operating lease is terminated before the lease period has expired, any penalty payment to the lessor is recognized as an expense in the period in which termination takes place.

Finance leases:
Finance leases are recognized as granted loans at the present value of the lease collections.  The difference between the gross receivable amount and the present value of the loan is recognized as unearned interest.  Lease income is recognized over the term of the lease agreement using the effective interest method, which reflects a constant periodic rate of return.

 
(k)
Property, furniture and equipment -
Land and buildings comprise mainly branches and offices.  All property, furniture and equipment are stated at historical acquisition cost less depreciation and impairment, if applicable.  Historical acquisition costs include expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquired property, furniture or equipment.  Maintenance and repair costs are charged to the consolidated income statement, and significant renewals and improvements are capitalized when it is probable that future economic benefits, in excess of the originally assessed standard of performance, will flow from the use of the acquired property, furniture or equipment.

Land is not depreciated. Depreciation of other assets in this caption is calculated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful life, as follows:

   
Years
 
Buildings and other construction
    33  
Installations
    10  
Furniture and fixtures
    10  
Computer hardware
    4  
Vehicles and equipment
    5  

An item of property, furniture and equipment and any significant part initially recognized is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal.  Any gain or loss arising on derecognizing of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognized.

Asset’s residual value, useful life and the selected depreciation method are periodically reviewed to ensure that they are consistent with actual economic benefits and life expectations.

 
F-31

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(l)
Seized assets -
Seized assets are recorded at the lower of cost or estimated market value, which is obtained from valuations made by independent appraisals.  Reductions in book values are recorded in the consolidated income statements.

 
(m)
Intangible assets -
Comprise internal developed and acquired software licenses used by the Group.  Acquired software licenses are measured on initial recognition at cost.  These intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful life (between 3 and 5 years).

Intangible assets identified as a consequence of the acquisition of Edyficar and AFP Unión Vida, note 10 (“Client relationships” and “Brand name”) and other intangible assets, are recognized on the consolidated statements of financial position at their fair values determined on the acquisition date and are amortized using the straight line method over their estimated useful life; as follows:

   
Years
 
Client relationships – AFP Unión Vida
    20  
Client relationships – Edyficar
    10  
Brand name – Edyficar
    20  
 Other
    5  

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the consolidated income statement when the asset is derecognized.

 
(n)
Goodwill -
Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition cost of a subsidiary over the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition.  Goodwill is tested annually for impairment to assess whether the carrying amount is fully recoverable.  An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.  Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for impairment testing purposes.  See also paragraph (o) below.
 
 
F-32

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(o)
Impairment of non-financial assets -
The Group assesses at each reporting date or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired, whether there is an indication that a non-financial asset may be impaired.  If any such indication exists, the Group estimates the asset’s recoverable amount.  Where the carrying amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset (or cash-generating unit) is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

For non-financial assets, excluding goodwill, an assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there is any indication that previously recognized impairment losses may no longer exist or may have decreased.  If such indication exists, the recoverable amount is estimated.  A previously recognized impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized; if that is the case, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount.  Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed for subsequent increases in its recoverable amount in future periods.

 
(p)
Due from customers on acceptances -
Due from customers on acceptances corresponds to accounts receivable from customers for import and export transactions, whose obligations have been accepted by the Group.  The obligations that must be assumed by the Group for such transactions are recorded as liabilities.

 
(q)
Financial guarantees -
In the ordinary course of business, the Group grants financial guarantees, such as letters of credit, guarantees and acceptances.  Financial guarantees are initially recognized at fair value (which is equivalent in that moment to the fee received), as “Other liabilities” in the consolidated statements of financial position.  Subsequent to initial recognition, the Group’s liability under each guarantee is measured as the higher of the amortized fee and the best estimate of expenditure required to settle any financial obligation arising as a result of the financial guarantee.

Any increase in the liability relating to a financial guarantee is included in the consolidated statement of income.  The fee received is recognized in the consolidated statement of income in the caption “Banking services commissions” on a straight line basis over the life of the granted financial guarantee.

 
(r)
Defined contribution pension plan -
The Group only operates a defined contribution pension plan.  The contribution payable to a defined contribution pension plan is in proportion to the services rendered to the Group by the employees and; it is recorded as an expense in the caption “Salaries and employees benefits” of the consolidated income statement.  Unpaid contributions are recorded as a liability.

 
F-33

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(s)
Provisions -
Provisions are recognized when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow or resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.  The expense relating to any provision is presented in the income statement net of any reimbursement.  If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.  Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as a finance cost.

 
(t)
Contingencies -
Contingent liabilities are not recognized in the consolidated financial statements.  They are disclosed in notes unless the possibility of an outflow of resources is remote.

 
(u)
Income tax and workers’ profit sharing -
Income tax and workers’ profit sharing are computed based on individual financial statements of Credicorp and each one of its Subsidiaries.

Deferred income tax and deferred workers’ profit sharing reflect the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for accounting purposes and the amounts determined for tax purposes.  Deferred assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates expected to be applied to taxable income in the years in which temporary differences are expected to be recovered or eliminated.  The measurement of deferred assets and deferred liabilities reflects the tax consequences that arise from the manner in which Credicorp and its Subsidiaries expect, at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized regardless of when the timing differences are likely to reverse.  Deferred tax assets are recognized when it is more likely than not that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilized.  At the date of the consolidated statements of financial position, Credicorp and its Subsidiaries assess unrecognized deferred assets and the carrying amount of recognized deferred assets.

Credicorp and its Subsidiaries determine the deferred income tax considering the tax rate applicable to its undistributed earnings; any additional tax on dividends distribution is recorded on the date a liability is recognized.

 
F-34

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(v)
Earnings per share -
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net profit for the year attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year, excluding the average number of ordinary shares purchased and held as treasury stock.

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net profit attributable to Credicorp’s equity holders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year, excluding the average number of ordinary shares purchased and held as treasury stock, plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on the conversion of all the dilutive potential ordinary shares into ordinary shares.

 
(w)
Share-based payment transactions -
(i)       Cash-settled transactions
As explained in note 18(a), until April 2008 the Group granted a supplementary remuneration plan to certain employees who had at least one year serving Credicorp or any of its Subsidiaries, in the form of stock appreciation rights (SARs) over a certain number of Credicorp shares.  SARs were granted at a fixed price and are exercisable at that price, allowing the employee to obtain a gain in cash (“cash-settled transaction”) arising from the difference between the fixed exercise price and the market price at the date the SARs are executed.

The SARs fair value is expensed over the period up to the vesting date, with recognition of a corresponding liability. The liability is remeasured to fair value at each reporting date up to and including the settlement date, with changes in fair value recognized in the caption “Salaries and employee benefits”. When the price or term of the SARs are modified, any additional expense is recorded.

(ii)      Equity-settled transactions
As explain in note 18(b), since April 2009, a new supplementary remuneration plan was implemented to replace the SARs plan (see (i) above).  The grant date was April 28, 2009, and the granted awards vest 33.3 percent every 12 months.

The cost of this equity-settled plan is recognized, together with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period in which the service conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (‘the vesting date”). The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Group’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest.
 
 
F-35

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The expense is recorded in the caption “Salaries and employees benefits” of the consolidated income statement. When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognized in “Salaries and employees benefits” is the expense as if the terms had not been modified. An additional expense is recognized for any modification which increases the total fair value of the share-based payment arrangement, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification.

The dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards is reflected as a share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share, see Note 3(v).

 
(x)
Derivative financial instruments -
   
Trading:
Part of transactions with derivatives, while providing effective economic hedges under Group’s risk management positions, do not qualify for hedge accounting under the specific rules of IAS 39 and are, therefore, treated as trading derivatives.

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position at cost and subsequently are re-measured at their fair value.  Fair values are estimated based on the market exchange and interest rates.  All derivatives are carried as assets when fair value is positive and as liabilities when fair value is negative.  Gain and losses for changes in their fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement.

Hedge:
The Group uses derivative instruments to manage exposures to interest rate and foreign currency.  In order to manage particular risks, the Group applies hedge accounting for transactions which meet the specified criteria.

At inception of the hedge relationship, the Group formally documents the relationship between the hedged item and the hedging instrument, including the nature of the risk, the objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge and the method that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging relationship.

Also, at the inception of the hedge relationship, a formal assessment is undertaken to ensure the hedging instrument is expected to be highly effective in offsetting the designated risk in the hedged item.  Hedges are formally assessed at each reporting date.  A hedge is regarded as highly effective if changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk during the period for which the hedge is designated is expected to offset in a range between 80 percent and 125 percent.

The accounting treatment is established according to the nature of the hedged item and compliance with the hedge criteria.

 
F-36

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(i)
Cash flow hedges
The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognized directly as other comprehensive income in the cash flow hedge reserve, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.

Amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to the consolidated income statement when the hedged transaction affects profit or loss, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognized or when a forecast sale occurs. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to the initial carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability.

If the forecast transaction or firm commitment is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in the cash flow hedge reserve are transferred to the consolidated income statement. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, any cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in the cash flow hedge reserve remains in the cash flow hedge reserve until the forecast transaction or firm commitment affects profit or loss.

 
(ii)
Fair value hedges
The change in the fair value of an interest rate hedging derivative is recognized in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.  The change in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk hedged is recorded as a part of the carrying value of the hedged item and is also recognized in the consolidated income statement in finance costs.

For fair value hedges relating to consolidated items carried at amortized cost, the adjustment to carrying value is amortized through the consolidated income statement over the remaining maturity term. Effective interest rate amortization may begin as soon as an adjustment exists and shall begin no later than when the hedged item ceases to be adjusted for changes in its fair value attributable to the risk being hedged.

If the hedge item is derecognized, the unamortized fair value is recognized immediately in the consolidated income statement.

When an unrecognized firm commitment is designated as a hedged item, the subsequent cumulative change in the fair value of the firm commitment attributable to the hedged risk is recognized as an asset or liability with a corresponding gain or loss recognized in the consolidated income statement.
 
 
F-37

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(iii)
Embedded derivates:
Derivatives embedded in host contracts are accounted for as separate derivatives and recorded at fair value if their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contracts, and the host contracts are not held for trading or designated at fair value through profit or loss.

The Group has certificates indexed to the price of Credicorp Ltd. shares that will be settled in cash, and investments indexed to certain life insurance contracts liabilities, denominated “Unit Link”.  These instruments have been classified at inception by the Group as “Financial instruments at fair value though profit or loss”, see 3(f)(i), and note 7.

 
(y)
Segment reporting -
The Group reports financial and descriptive information about its reportable segments.  Reportable segments are operating segments or aggregations of operating segments that meet specified criteria.  Operating segments are a component of an entity for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the entity’s Chief Operating Decision maker (“CODM”) in making decisions about how to allocate resources and is assessing performance.  Generally, financial information is required to be reported on the same basis as it is used internally for evaluating operating segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources to segments, note 26.

 
(z)
Fiduciary activities, management of funds and pension funds -
The Group provides custody, trustee, investment management and advisory services to third parties that result in the holding of assets on their behalf.  These assets and income arising thereon are excluded from these consolidated financial statements, as they are not assets of the Group, note 29.8.

Commissions generated for these activities are included in the caption “Other income” of the consolidated income statements.

 
(aa)
Sale and repurchase agreements -
Securities sold subject to repurchase agreements (‘Repos’) are presented as pledged assets when the counterparty has the right to sell or repledge the collateral; the counterparty liability is included in the caption “Due to banks and correspondents” or “Deposits and obligations”, as appropriate, in the consolidated statements of financial position.

The difference between sale and repurchase price is considered as interest and is accrued over the life of the related agreement using the effective interest method.

 
F-38

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(ab)
Cash and cash equivalents -
For the purposes of the consolidated cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise balances of cash and balances with central banks, overnight deposits and amounts due from banks with original maturities of three months or less.

 
(ac)
Reclassifications -
When it is necessary, the comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.  Certain transactions were reclassified in the current year presentation; in Management’s opinion those reclassifications are not significant to the consolidated financial statement as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 
(ad)
Recently issued International Financial Reporting Standards but not yet effective -
The Group decided not to early adopt the following standards and interpretations that were issued but not effective as December 31, 2009:

-
IFRS 2 “Share-based Payment (Revised): Group Cash-settled Share-based Payment”, effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2010, with retrospective application.  This amendment provides guidance on how to account for cash-settled share-based payment transactions in the separate financial statements of an entity. This amendment will not have any impact on the Group´s consolidated financial statements.

-
IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments “, the IASB issued this IFRS as the first step in its project to replace IAS 39 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”.  IFRS 9 introduces new requirements for classifying and measuring financial assets that must be applied starting on January 1, 2013, with early adoption permitted.  The IASB intends to expand IFRS 9 during 2010 to add new requirements for classifying and measuring financial liabilities, derecognition of financial instruments, impairment, and hedge accounting.

-
IFRS 3 (Revised) “Business Combination and Consolidation” and IAS 27 (Revised) “Separated Financial Statements Consolidation”, effective modifications for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009. Changes in IFRS 3 (Revised) affect the valuation of non-controlling interest, the accounting for transactions costs, the initial recognition and subsequent measurement of a contingent consideration and business combination achieved in stages. IAS 27 (amended) requires that a change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary (without loss of control) is accounted for as a transaction with owners in their capacity as owners.

 
F-39

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

-
IAS 24 “Related Party Disclosures” (Revised), effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2011.  The amendment simplifies the identification of related party relationships, particularly in relation to significant influence and joint control.  In addition, a partial exemption from the disclosures has been included for government-related entities.

-
IAS 32 “Financial Instruments: Presentation – Classification of Rights Issues” (Amendment), effective for periods beginning on or after February 1, 2010.  The definition of a financial liability has been amended to classify rights issues (and certain options or warrants) as equity instruments if, the rights are given pro rata to all of the existing owners of the same class of an entity’s non-derivative equity instruments, and they are used to acquire a fixed number of the entity’s own equity instruments for a fixed amount in any currency.

-
IAS 39 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement – Eligible Hedged Items”,  effective for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009, the amendment addresses the designation of a one-sided risk in a hedged item, and the designation of inflation as a hedged risk or portion in particular situations.

-
IFRIC 14 “Prepayments of a Minimum Funding Requirement” (Amendment), effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2011.  The IFRIC permits an entity to treat the prepayment of a minimum funding requirement as an asset.

-
IFRIC 17, “Distributions of Non-Cash Assets to owners”, effective for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009.  Early application is permitted.  This interpretation provides guidance in the accounting treatment of distribution of - non cash assets to owners.

-
IFRIC 18, “Transfer of Assets from Customers”, effective for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009. This interpretation clarifies the requirements of IFRS for agreements in which an entity receives from a customer an item of property, plant and equipment that the entity must then use either to connect the customer to a network or to provide the customer with ongoing access to a supply of goods or services.

-
IFRIC 19 “Extinguishing Financial Liabilities with Equity Instruments”, effective for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2010. The interpretation clarifies that equity instruments issued to a creditor to extinguish a financial liability are consideration paid in accordance with paragraph 41 of IAS 39 “Financial Instruments; Recognition and Measurement”.

 
F-40

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

-
Improvements to IFRSs
In April 2009 the IASB issued “Improvements to IFRSs”, its second omnibus of amendments to its standards and the related basis for conclusion.  There are separate effective date and transitional provisions for each standard.  The improvement project is an annual project that provides a mechanism for making necessary but non-urgent or significant amendments.

The Group is in process of assessing the impact, if any, that the application of these standards may have on their financial statements.
 
 
4.
Cash and due from banks
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Cash and clearing
    679,694       625,954  
Deposits in Peruvian Central Bank - BCRP
    2,107,635       1,952,952  
Deposits in banks
    1,047,830       1,184,729  
      3,835,159       3,763,635  
Accrued interest
    1,499       2,536  
                 
Total
    3,836,658       3,766,171  

(b)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, cash and due from banks balances include approximately US$2,605.1 and US$2,488.7 million, respectively, mainly from Banco de Crédito del Perú (BCP), which represent the legal reserve that Peruvian banks must maintain for its obligations with the public, and are within the limits established by prevailing Peruvian legislation at those dates.

The legal reserve funds maintained with BCRP are not interest-bearing, except for the part of the mandatory reserve in U.S. Dollars that exceeds the minimum legal reserve.  As of December 31, 2009, this excess amounts to approximately US$1,790.8 million and bears interest in U.S. Dollars at an average annual interest rate of 0.14 percent (approximately US$1,601.6 million and 0.4 percent, respectively as of December 31, 2008).

 
F-41

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
5.
Investments available-for-sale
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
         
Unrealized gross amount
               
Unrealized gross amount
       
   
Amortized
cost
   
Gains
   
Losses (b)
   
Estimated
fair value
   
Amortized
cost
   
Gains
   
Losses (b)
   
Estimated
fair value
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                 
Fixed maturity -
                                               
BCRP certificates of deposit (d)
    1,545,343       386       (24 )     1,545,705       2,209,460       2,939       (3,457 )     2,208,942  
Corporate, leasing and subordinated bonds (e)
    1,440,006       54,932       (9,302 )     1,485,636       947,991       16,015       (58,109 )     905,897  
Government’s treasury bonds (f)
    904,424       103,787       (438 )     1,007,773       833,153       57,678       (10,231 )     880,600  
Central Bank of Bolivia certificates of deposit (g)
    111,102       793       -       111,895       217,516       115       (81 )     217,550  
Participations in mutual funds
    167,052       7,726       (240 )     174,538       97,234       2,189       (2,479 )     96,944  
Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO) (h)
    67,810       15       (5,092 )     62,733       96,256       46       (22,375 )     73,927  
US Government – Agencies and Sponsored Enterprises (i)
    16,824       540       -       17,364       41,000       3,718       (67 )     44,651  
Restricted mutual funds (j)
    53,104       18,976       -       72,080       49,775       1,887       -       51,662  
Participation in RAL’s funds (k)
    83,898       -       -       83,898       73,268       -       -       73,268  
Negotiable certificates of deposit
    24,126       2,337       -       26,463       41,628       1,003       (76 )     42,555  
Hedge funds
    10,811       3,691       -       14,502       31,742       2,920       (284 )     34,378  
Bonds of international financial entities
    66,267       2,811       -       69,078       34,799       116       (587 )     34,328  
Other
    24,933       674       (9 )     25,598       30,892       5       (770 )     30,127  
 
    4,515,700       196,668       (15,105 )     4,697,263       4,704,714       88,631       (98,516 )     4,694,829  
 
                                                               
Shares -
                                                               
Listed securities (l)
    106,071       185,412       (1,304 )     290,179       101,593       109,032       (5,936 )     204,689  
Not-listed securities
    35,464       5,284       (194 )     40,554       6,242       1,761       (3 )     8,000  
      141,535       190,696       (1,498 )     330,733       107,835       110,793       (5,939 )     212,689  
                                                                 
      4,657,235       387,364       (16,603 )     5,027,996       4,812,549       199,424       (104,455 )     4,907,518  
                                                                 
Accrued interest
                            51,610                               43,236  
                                                                 
Total
                            5,079,606                               4,950,754  

 
F-42

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(b)
Credicorp’s Management has determined that the unrealized losses as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 are of temporary nature.  Management intents and has the ability to hold each investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in fair value, until the earlier of its anticipated recovery or maturity.

Credicorp’s Management has considered the following criteria in determining whether a loss is temporary or not for equity investments (shares):

the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been below cost;
the severity of the impairment;
-
the cause of the impairment and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; and
activity in the market of the issuer which may indicate adverse credit conditions.

Credicorp’s Management has considered the following criteria in determining whether a loss is temporary or not for debt investments (fixed maturity):

 
-
Assess whether it is probable that the Group will receive all amounts due according to the contractual terms (principal and interest). The identification of credit-impaired debt investments considers a number of factors, including the nature of the debt investment and the underlying collateral, the amount of subordination or credit enhancement, published credit rating and other information, and other evidential data of the probable cash flows from the debt investment. If recovery of all amounts due is not probable; a “credit impairment” is deemed to exist, and the unrealized loss is recorded directly in the consolidated income statement.  This unrealized loss recorded in income represents the debt investment decline in fair value, including the decline due to forecasted cash flow shortfalls as well as general market spread widening.

 
-
For debt investments with unrealized losses but not identified as impairment, Credicorp’s Management determines whether it has the positive intent and ability to hold each investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in its amortized cost.  Credicorp’s Management estimates the forecasted recovery period using current estimates of volatility in market interest rates (including liquidity and risk premiums).  Management’s assertion regarding its intent and ability to hold investments considers a number of factors, including a quantitative estimate of the expected recovery period and the length of that period (which may extend to maturity), the severity of the impairment, and Credicorp’s Management intended strategy. If Credicorp’s Management does not have the intent and ability to hold the security for a sufficient time period, the unrealized loss is recorded directly in the consolidated income statement.

 
(c)
For the year ended December 31, 2009, as a result of the impairment assessment of its investments available-for-sale, the Group recorded an impairment amounting to US$9.8 million (US$60.4 million of gross impairment, and US$55.7 million net of deferred taxes and minority interest as of December 31, 2008), which is presented in the consolidated income statement caption “Impairment loss on available-for-sale investments”.

 
F-43

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The movement of “Available-for-sale investments reserves”, net of deferred income tax and minority interest is presented in note 16(c).

(d)
BCRP certificates of deposit are discounted Nuevo Sol instruments with maturities due within one year and are acquired in public auctions.  Annual effective interest rates in Peruvian currency range between 1.13 and 1.39 percent as of December 31, 2009 (between 6.55 and 7.06 annual percent as of December 31, 2008).

As of December 31, 2008, this amount also included BCRP certificates of deposit in US$ Dollars amounting to US$1,070.7 million, with maturities between January and April  2009.  These certificates accrued interests at annual effective rates that range between 0.34 and 1.55 percent.

As of December 31, 2008, the Group entered into BCRP - Repo transactions in Peruvian currency with its clients using these securities for approximately US$294.2 million.  At that date, these transactions earned an annual effective interest rate between 6.75 and 7.00 percent and with maturities between February and November 2009.

(e)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, comprise mainly corporate bonds for US$1,460.9 and US$898.4 million, respectively, with maturities between January 2010 and November 2066 (between January 2009 and November 2066 as of December 31, 2008).  These bonds accrue interests at annual effective rates that range between 0.67 and 7.47 percent for the bonds denominated in Peruvian currency (between 2.81 and 8.80 percent as of December 31, 2008), and between 0.38 and 13.93 percent for the bonds denominated in U.S. Dollars (between 1.58 and 18.4 percent as of December 31, 2008).  The unrealized losses on these investments as of December 31, 2008, corresponded to 178 items of which the highest individual unrealized loss amounts to approximately US$2 million.

 
F-44

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

(f)
Includes principally debt instruments issued by the Peruvian Government in Euros for an equivalent of US$364.4 million, in U.S. dollars for US$257.0 million and in Nuevo Sol for an equivalent of US$165.3 million, the Colombian Government in U.S. dollars for US$89.5 million and Colombian Peso for an equivalent of US$64.3 million, and the Government of Brazil in U.S. dollars for US$19.1 million, as of December 31, 2009 (US$795.2, US$67.7 and US$4.9 million, issued by the Peruvian Government, the Colombian Government and El Salvador Government, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).  Their maturities are between March 2010 and August 2046 (between January 2009 and August 2046 as of December 31, 2008) and earned interests at annual effective rates that range between 1.06 and 9.50 percent (between 2.85 and 9.15 percent as of December 31, 2008).

(g)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, certificates of deposit issued by the Central Bank of Bolivia are denominated in Pesos Bolivianos, had maturities between January and December 2010 and between January and July 2009, respectively, and accrued interest at annual effective rates that ranges between 1.50 and 11.77 percent and between 7.42 and 11.45 percent, respectively.

As of December 31, 2009, the Group entered into Repo transactions in Pesos Bolivianos with its clients for an equivalent of US$35.0 million using these securities.  At that date, these transactions earned interest at current market rates in Bolivia and with maturities in February 2010.

(h)
Collaterized mortgage obligations are not related with “sub prime mortgages”, they correspond to senior tranches and have maturities between May 2033 and January 2047 (between December 2015 and January 2047 as of December 31, 2008) and accrues interest at annual effective rates that ranges between 3.43 and 13.70 percent (between 3.80 and 14.20 percent as of December 31, 2008).  The unrealized losses on these instruments as of December 31, 2009 correspond to 21 items of which the highest individual unrealized loss amounts to approximately US$1.8 million (23 items and US$1.5 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

(i)
Corresponds to debt instruments issued by US Government – Agencies and Sponsored Enterprises.  Their maturities are between January 2010 and August 2038 (between April 2009 and August 2038 as of December 31, 2008) and earned interest at annual effective rates between 3.98 and 5.77 percent (between 4.05 and 6.30 percent as of December 31, 2008).

(j)
Restricted mutual funds comprise participation quotas on the private pension funds managed by the Group as required by Peruvian regulations.  They have a restricted disposal and their profitability is the same as the one obtained by the private pension funds managed.

(k)
The participation quotas in the Fund “Requirement of Cash Assets” (RAL for its Spanish acronym) are denominated in Pesos Bolivianos and comprise investments made by the Group in the Central Bank of Bolivia as collateral for the deposits maintained with the public.  Such fund has restrictions for its use and it is required for all banks established in Bolivia.  The fund accrues interest at an average annual effective rate of 8.58 and 5.48 percent as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 
F-45

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

(l)
As of December 31, 2009, the unrealized gains on listed securities arises mainly from shares in Banco de Crédito e Inversiones de Chile - BCI Chile, Inversiones Centenario S.A., Alicorp S.A.A. and Edelnor S.A., which amounted to US$70.9, US$41.2, US$25.6 and US$22.8 million, respectively (US$18.2, US$28.8, US$8.8 y US$14.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

(m)
As of December 31, 2009, the Group has cash flow hedges and fair value hedges over investments available for sale for a notional amount of US$71.1 million and US$373.3 million, respectively.  These investment under cash flow hedges were economically converted to US$ Dollars with fixed rate; and investment under fair value hedges were economically converted to US$ Dollars with variable rate (global bonds in Euros), and variable rate (fixed bonds in US$), see note 11(b).

 
(n)
Amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments available-for-sale classified by maturity are as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Amortized
cost
   
Fair
value
   
Amortized
cost
   
Fair
 value
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Up to 3 months
    1,419,936       1,451,352       2,021,269       2,023,679  
From 3 months to 1 year
    919,290       922,408       950,129       946,040  
From 1 to 3 years
    505,941       524,139       284,307       279,245  
From 3 to 5 years
    677,097       722,548       262,785       258,791  
Over 5 years
    993,436       1,076,816       1,186,224       1,187,074  
Without maturity (shares)
    141,535       330,733       107,835       212,689  
                                 
Total
    4,657,235       5,027,996       4,812,549       4,907,518  

 
F-46

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

6.
Loans, net
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Direct loans -
           
Loans
    7,927,451       7,324,485  
Leasing receivables
    1,997,562       1,792,827  
Credit card receivables
    1,059,433       854,968  
Discounted notes
    349,126       368,648  
Advances and overdrafts
    47,147       102,687  
Factoring receivables
    163,443       124,537  
Refinanced and restructured loans
    59,459       55,179  
Past due and under legal collection loans
    184,567       82,867  
      11,788,188       10,706,198  
Add (less) -
               
Accrued interest
    80,316       90,094  
Unearned interest
    (282,869 )     (249,914 )
Allowance for loan losses (d)
    (354,355 )     (224,337 )
                 
Total direct loans, net
    11,231,280       10,322,041  
                 
Indirect loans, note 19(a)
    2,528,135       1,755,902  

 
(b)
Loans by class, are as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Commercial loans
    8,566,659       8,058,585  
Residential mortgage loans
    1,753,736       1,485,214  
Consumer loans
    1,467,793       1,162,399  
                 
Total
    11,788,188       10,706,198  

 
(c)
Interest rates on loans are set considering the rates prevailing in the markets where the Group’s subsidiaries operate.

 
F-47

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(d)
The movement in the allowance for loan losses (direct and indirect loans) is shown below:

   
2009
 
   
Commercial loans
   
Residential mortgage loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Beginning balances
    161,170       30,832       56,061       248,063  
Provision
    79,551       9,781       74,060       163,392  
Recoveries of written-off loans
    12,984       939       10,005       23,928  
Acquisition of Edyficar, note 2
    19,443       106       1,356       20,905  
Loan portfolio written-off
    (32,364 )     (958 )     (54,605 )     (87,927 )
Translation result
    3,012       771       3,905       7,688  
Ending balances (*)
    243,796       41,471       90,782       376,049  

   
2008
 
   
Commercial loans
   
Residential mortgage loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Beginning balances
    184,584       14,454       30,662       229,700  
Provision (recoveries)
    (10,667 )     16,024       43,403       48,760  
Recoveries of written-off loans
    19,956       808       10,515       31,279  
Loan portfolio written-off
    (31,595 )     (291 )     (27,422 )     (59,308 )
Translation result
    (1,108 )     (163 )     (1,097 )     (2,368 )
                                 
Ending balances (*)
    161,170       30,832       56,061       248,063  

 
F-48

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

   
2007
 
   
Commercial
loans
   
Residential
mortgage
loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Beginning balances
    183,374       9,253       17,959       210,586  
Provision (recoveries)
    (5,591 )     4,884       29,146       28,439  
Recoveries of written-off loans
    26,016       2,587       5,481       34,084  
Loan portfolio written-off
    (22,079 )     (2,395 )     (22,792 )     (47,266 )
Translation result
    2,864       125       868       3,857  
                                 
Ending balances (*)
    184,584       14,454       30,662       229,700  

 
(*)
The movement in the allowance for loan losses includes the allowance for direct and indirect loans for approximately US$354.4  and US$21.7 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2009 (approximately US$224.3 and US$23.7 million; and US$211.3 and US$18.4 million, as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively).  The allowance for indirect loan losses is included in the caption “Other liabilities” of the consolidated statements of financial position, note 11(a).

In Management’s opinion, the allowance for loan losses recorded as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 has been established in accordance with IAS 39 and is sufficient to cover the losses on the loan portfolio, note 3(i).

 
(e)
Part of the loan portfolio is collateralized with guarantees received from clients, which mainly consist of mortgages, trust assignments, financial instruments and industrial and mercantile pledges.

 
(f)
Interest on past due and under legal collection loans are recognized when collected.
Interest income that would have been recorded for these loans in accordance with their original contract terms amounts to approximately US$ 27.9, US$17.0 and US$18.7 million as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 
F-49

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(g)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the direct gross loan portfolio classified by maturity, based on the remaining period to repayment date is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Outstanding loans -
           
Up to 1 year
    6,269,810       6,307,197  
From 1 to 3 years
    2,077,950       1,648,821  
From 3 to 5 years
    1,218,240       1,033,375  
Over 5 years
    2,037,621       1,633,938  
                 
Past due loans -
               
Up to 4 months
    70,602       34,955  
Over 4 months
    64,105       22,569  
Under legal collection loans
    49,860       25,343  
                 
Total
    11,788,188       10,706,198  

7.
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Citigroup indexed certificates (b)
    115,007       129,631  
Investment – Unit Link (c)
    20,663       8,314  
                 
      135,670       137,945  

 
(b)
In connection with the liabilities that result from Credicorp´s stock appreciation rights (SARs), (note 18), BCP signed several contracts with Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc., Citigroup Capital Limited, Citigroup Capital Market Inc (hereinafter “Citigroup”) and Calyon Financial Products (Guernsey) Limited (hereinafter “Calyon”).

These contracts consist of the purchase of certificates indexed to the performance of Credicorp Ltd. (BAP) shares, in the form of “warrants” issued by Citigroup and Calyon, which the same number of Credicorp Ltd. shares.  These certificates are cash settled and, at their maturity, they pay an amount equal to the final settlement price minus the strike price (US$ 0.0000001) plus the accrued dividends, less the annual fee multiplied by the number of warrants underlying the certificate.  The final settlement price is equivalent to the daily volume-weighted average of the per share price for BAP shares on each business day, on which Citigroup or any of its affiliates or Calyon effects any transactions with respect to BAP shares in order to unwind its position established and maintained to hedge its price and market risk with respect to the issued certificates.

 
F-50

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The certificates have a maturity of 5 years but can be settled anytime before their maturity, partially or totally.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group had acquired 1,472,414 and 2,487,414 certificates, respectively, at a total cost of US$87.8 and US$129.1 million, respectively (US$67.8 and US$51.9 per certificate on average, respectively).  At those dates, the estimated market value amounted to US$115.0 million and US$129.6 million, respectively (US$78.1 and US$52.1 per certificate on average, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively). For the year 2009, the gain resulting from the difference between cost and estimated market value amounting to approximately US$37.3 million (loss of US$67.1 million for the year 2008) has been recorded in the caption “Net gain (loss) on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss” of the consolidated statement of income, according to the accounting principle described in note 3(x).

 
(c)
The Group issues unit-linked investment policies whereby the policyholder bears the investment risk on the assets held in the unit-linked funds as the policy benefits are directly linked to the value of the assets in the fund. The Group’s exposure to market risk on this business is limited to the extent that income arising from asset management charges is based on the value of assets in the fund.  For the year 2009, the gain recorded for these investment amounting to approximately US$5.5 million (gain of US$1.7 million for the year 2008) are presented in the caption “Net gain (loss) on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss” of the consolidated statement of income, according to the accounting principles described in note 3(x).

8.
Receivable and payable accounts from insurance contracts
 
(a)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the caption “Premiums and other policies receivable” includes balances which primarily due in a current period, have no collaterals and present no material past due balances.

 
(b)
The movements of the captions “Accounts receivable and payable to reinsurers and coinsurers” are as follows:

 
F-51

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Accounts receivable:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Beginning balances
    165,144       116,141  
Reported claims of premiums ceded
    51,895       64,787  
Premiums ceded unearned during the year
    (15,381 )     1,054  
Premiums assumed
    8,304       22,664  
Settled claims of premiums ceded by facultative contracts
    18,713       14,885  
Collections and other
    (91,577 )     (54,387 )
                 
Ending balances
    137,098       165,144  

Accounts receivable as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, include US$16.6 million and US$32.0 million, respectively which correspond to the unearned portion of the ceded premiums to the reinsurers.

Accounts payable:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Beginning balances
    55,841       33,963  
Premiums ceded to reinsurers by facultative contracts
    72,925       85,355  
Coinsurance granted
    12,171       2,531  
Payments and other
    (92,928 )     (66,008 )
                 
Ending balances
    48,009       55,841  

Accounts payable to reinsurers are primarily related to the proportional facultative contracts for ceded premiums, automatic non-proportional contracts (excess of loss) and reinstallation premiums.  For facultative contracts the Group transfers to the reinsurers a percentage or an amount of an insurance contract or individual risk, based on the premium and the covered period.  The net movement of the accounts payable  of non-proportioned contracts (excess of loss) as well as installation premiums of the years 2009 and 2008 are included in the concept “Payments and  other” for US$24.8 million and U$26.4 million, respectively.

 
F-52

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

9.
Property, furniture and equipment, net
 
(a)
The movement of property, furniture and equipment and accumulated depreciation, for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, is as follows:

   
Land
   
Buildings and other
construction
   
Installations
   
Furniture
and fixtures
   
Computer hardware
   
Vehicles
and equipment
   
Work
in progress
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                       
Cost -
                                                     
Balance as of January 1st
    38,367       277,825       110,758       81,099       219,112       29,066       28,766       784,993       708,483  
Additions
    1,271       2,203       2,068       4,714       18,554       1,537       14,704       45,051       91,353  
Acquisition of Edyficar, note 2
    2,000       2,733       -       2,662       2,640       1,771       -       11,806       -  
Transfers
    -       11,978       5,268       1,397       767       642       (20,052 )     -       -  
Sales and other
    (1,348 )     (66 )     (493 )     (862 )     (6,213 )     (4,275 )     1,296       (11,961 )     (14,843 )
Balance as of December 31
    40,290       294,673       117,601       89,010       234,860       28,741       24,714       829,889       784,993  
                                                                         
Accumulated depreciation -
                                                                       
Balance as of January 1st
    -       145,950       70,116       60,515       169,398       9,556       -       455,535       433,548  
Depreciation for the year
    -       7,193       7,249       3,684       21,060       2,686       -       41,872       36,034  
Acquisition of Edyficar, note 2
    -       151       -       759       1,801       840       -       3,551       -  
Sales and other
    -       78       (472 )     (878 )     (6,123 )     (2,209 )     -       (9,604 )     (14,047 )
Balance as of December 31
    -       153,372       76,893       64,080       186,136       10,873       -       491,354       455,535  
                                                                         
Net book value
    40,290       141,301       40,708       24,930       48,724       17,868       24,714       338,535       329,458  

 
(b)
Banks, financial institutions and insurance entities operating in Peru are not allowed to pledge their fixed assets.

 
(c)
As of December 31, 2009, Credicorp and its Subsidiaries have property available for sale for approximately US$24.2 million, net of its accumulated depreciation amounting to approximately US$9.6 million (US$25.0  and US$8.8 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

 
(d)
Management periodically reviews the residual value, useful life and method of depreciation of the Group’s property, furniture and equipment to ensure that they are consistent with their actual economic benefits and life expectations.  In Management’s opinion, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 there is no evidence of impairment of the Group’s property, furniture and equipment.

 
F-53

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

10.
Intangibles assets and goodwill, net
 
(a)
Intangibles –
The movement of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:

Description
 
Client
Relationships
   
Brand name
   
Software
   
Developments
   
Other
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                           
Cost -
                                         
Balance as of January 1st
    88,378       -       69,160       54,926       11,598       224,062       187,237  
Additions
    -       -       12,128       935       39,612       52,675       39,261  
Acquisition of Edyficar, note 2
    6,574       13,159       2,951       -       -       22,684       -  
Transfers
    -       -       4       19,767       (19,771 )     -       -  
Withdrawls and other
    -       -       (349 )     (619 )     (1,375 )     (2,343 )     (2,436 )
Balance as of December 31
    94,952       13,159       83,894       75,009       30,064       297,078       224,062  
                                                         
Accumulated amortization -
                                                       
Balance as of January 1st
    9,436       -       29,483       21,461       7,339       67,719       47,552  
Amortization of the year
    4,500       105       12,483       9,952       2,187       29,227       21,335  
Acquisition of Edyficar, note 2
    -       -       1,072       -       -       1,072       -  
Withdrawls and other
    23       -       (353 )     (512 )     (615 )     (1,457 )     (1,168 )
Balance as of December 31
    13,959       105       42,685       30,901       8,911       96,561       67,719  
                                                         
Net book value
    80,993       13,054       41,209       44,108       21,153       200,517       156,343  

During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, Credicorp capitalized disbursements related to the implementation and development of sundry computer systems in BCP (mainly SAP-ERP).

 
F-54

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(b)
Goodwill -
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Goodwill -
           
Edyficar, note 2
    50,696       -  
Prima AFP
    44,594       44,594  
Banco de Crédito del Perú
    18,733       18,609  
El Pacífico Peruano – Suiza Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros
    13,007       13,007  
Atlantic Security Holding Corporation
    10,660       10,660  
Coporación Novasalud Perú S.A. EPS
    3,744       3,744  
                 
Book value, net
    141,434       90,614  

Management annually assesses goodwill to identify any impairment; assumptions used are consistent with previous years.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, Management concluded that there is no impairment in the recorded goodwill.

 
F-55

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
11.
Other assets and other liabilities
 
(a)
These items are made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Other assets -
           
Financial instruments:
           
Value added tax credit
    152,548       124,880  
Derivatives receivable (b)
    97,341       79,275  
Accounts receivable
    61,086       56,886  
Income tax prepayments, net
    59,175       27,417  
Operations in process (c)
    50,072       38,282  
      420,222       326,740  
Non-financial instruments:
               
Deferred income tax asset, note 17(c)
    84,070       67,173  
Prepaid expenses
    66,213       56,252  
Deferred fees
    30,130       36,526  
Investments in associates
    8,541       8,474  
Other
    18,365       15,755  
      207,319       184,180  
Total
    627,541       510,920  
                 
Other liabilities -
               
Financial instruments:
               
Payroll, taxes, salaries and other personnel expenses
    173,953       126,295  
Derivatives payable (b)
    167,849       256,792  
Accounts payable
    156,032       126,421  
Operations in process (c)
    51,187       36,996  
Contributions
    25,874       4,882  
Allowance for indirect loan losses, note 6(d)
    21,694       23,726  
      596,589       575,112  
Non-financial instruments:
               
Deferred income tax liability, note 17(c)
    89,406       66,133  
Provision for sundry risks (d)
    27,225       47,512  
Other
    12,803       13,642  
      129,434       127,287  
Total
    726,023       702,399  
 
 
F-56

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(b)
The table below presents the fair value of derivative financial instruments, recorded as an asset or a liability, together with their notional amounts.  The notional amount, recorded gross, is the amount of a derivative’s underlying asset and is the basis upon which changes in the value of derivatives are measured.  The notional amounts indicate the volume of transactions outstanding at year end and are not indicative of market risk on credit risk, note 19(c).

         
2009
 
   
Note
   
Assets
   
Liabilities
   
Notional amount
   
Hedged
instrument
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
       
                               
Derivatives held for trading (i) -
                             
Forward exchange contracts
          39,611       19,138       2,614,381      
-
 
Interest rate swaps
          29,023       31,695       618,006      
-
 
Currency swaps
          14,245       12,025       435,518      
-
 
Options
          198       161       24,374      
-
 
                                       
Derivatives held as hedges -
                                     
Cash flow hedge (ii) :
                                     
Forward exchange contracts
 
5(m)
      -       13,532       71,180    
Investments available for-sale
 
Interest rate swaps
 
12(a)
      1,706       1,614       316,021    
Deposits
 
Interest rate swaps
 
13(a)(i)(*)
      -       11,395       410,000    
Due to banks
 
Interest rate swaps
 
13(b)
      -       63,629       649,177    
Borrowed funds
 
Cross currency swaps
 
15(a)(i)(*)
      1,737       -       111,508    
Bonds issued
 
Cross currency swaps
 
15(a)(i)
      24       106       15,687    
Bonds issued
 
Cross currency swaps and interest rate swaps (iii)
 
15(a)(i)
      7,761       2,855       113,362    
Bonds issued
 
                                       
Fair value hedge (iv) :
                                     
Cross currency swaps
 
5(m)
      2,464       11,646       318,325    
Investments available-for-sale
 
Interest rate swaps
 
5(m)
      572       53       55,047    
Investments available-for-sale
 
                                       
            97,341       167,849       5,752,586          

 
F-57

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

         
2008
 
   
Note
   
Assets
   
Liabilities
   
Notional amount
   
Hedgee
instruments
 
         
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
       
                               
Derivatives held for trading (i) -
                             
Forward exchange contracts
          33,427       49,979       2,478,234    
-
 
Interest rate swaps
          32,918       38,181       763,126    
-
 
Currency swaps
          12,904       9,675       192,899    
-
 
                                     
Derivatives held as hedges -
                                   
Cash flow hedge (ii) :
                                   
Interest rate swaps
 
12(a)
      -       4,558       177,902    
Deposits
 
Interest rate swaps
 
13(a)(i)(*)
      -       13,038       410,000    
Due to banks
 
Interest rate swaps
 
13(b)
      -       95,382       696,000    
Borrowed funds
 
Cross currency swaps
          -       3,126       24,009    
Due to banks
 
Cross currency swaps
 
15(a)(i)
      -       2,866       15,687    
Bonds issued
 
Cross currency swaps and interest rate swaps (iii)
 
15(a)(i)
      26       19,389       113,362    
Bonds issued
 
                                     
Fair value hedge (v) :
                                   
Cross currency swaps
 
15(a)(iii)
      -       20,598       163,985    
Subordinated notes
 
                                     
            79,275       256,792       5,035,204        

(i)   
The Group’s derivative trading activities mainly relate to transactions with customers.  The Group may also take positions with the expectation of profiting from favorable movements in prices, rates or indexes.  Also included under this caption are any derivatives which do not meet IAS 39 hedging requirements.

 
(ii)   
The Group is exposed to variability in future interest cash flows on assets and liabilities in foreign currency and/or which bear interest at variable rates.  The Group uses interest rate swaps - IRS, cross currency swaps - CCS and forward exchange contract as cash flow hedges of these risks.

A schedule indicating as of December 31, 2009 the periods when the cash flows hedges are expected to occur and when they are expected to affect the consolidated income statement is as follows:

 
F-58

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

   
Up to 1 year
   
From 1 to 3 
years
   
From 3 to 5 
years
   
Over 5 years
 
    
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Cash outflows (liabilities)
    (508,574 )     (683,522 )     (466,844 )     (224,984 )
                                 
Consolidated income statement
    (65,449 )     (35,232 )     29,488       615  

 
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the accumulated balance of unrealized loss on cash flow hedges recorded as other comprehensive income in the cash flow hedge reserve amounted to US$51.5 and US$118.1 million, respectively, see note 16(c).  The transfer of net loss on cash flow hedges to the consolidated income statement is presented in note 16(c).

 
(iii)
On December 2007 and during the first months of 2008, the Group entered into three CCS contracts which were initially designated as fair value hedges as they reduced the Group’s exposure to changes in the fair value of three fixed-rate corporate bonds issued in Peruvian currency, see note 15 (a)(i); arising from changes in the exchange rate and interest rates.

During 2008, given the international context, the Group entered into three IRS contracts aimed at mitigating the inherent risks in having a variable interest rate (Libor) for the hedged corporate bonds indicated in the previous paragraph; fixing again their respective interest rates.  Therefore, in accordance with IAS 39, the initial designations of fair value hedges were revoked and the combined CCS and IRS were redesignated as cash flow hedges from the date of entering into the IRS contracts.

 
(iv)
The Group maintains CCS and IRS designated as fair value hedge of certain investments available for sale.  CCS reduce the exposure to changes in the fair value of fixed rate global bonds denominated in Euros, related to variations in the foreign currency exchange and interest rates.  Furthermore, IRS reduce the exposure to changes in the fair value of fixed bonds in US$ issued by the Peruvian Government, corporative entities, and international financial entities related to variations in the interest rates, see note 5(m).

 
(v)
On January 2008, the Group entered into a CCS contract, initially designated as fair value hedges as it reduced the Group’s exposure to changes in the fair value of fixed-rate subordinated notes issued by BCP in Peruvian currency, see note 15 (a)(iii); arising from changes in the exchange rate and interest rates (Libor).

On January 2009, the Group entered into an IRS contract aimed at mitigating the inherent risks in having a variable interest rate (Libor) for the hedged subordinated notes indicated in the previous paragraph; fixing their respective interest rates. The initial designation of fair value hedges was revoked and the combined CCS and IRS were redesignated as cash flow hedges from the date of entering into the IRS contracts.  Therefore, net loss on these cash flow hedges was recognized directly in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

 
F-59

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Subsequently, in October 2009, the Group discontinued prospectively the combined cash flow hedge of CCS and IRS through the unwinding of these instruments.  The cumulative gain from the fair value of these hedging instruments amounting to US$5.9 and US$7.7 million, respectively, previously recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income, will be recognized in the consolidated income statement during the remaining term of the underlying liability (subordinated notes), 8 years.

 
(c)
Operations in process include deposits received, loans disbursed, loans collected, funds transferred and other similar types of transactions, which are made at the end of the month and not reclassified to their final consolidated statements of financial position account until the first days of the following month.  These transactions do not affect the Group’s net consolidated income.

 
(d)
The movement of the provision for sundry risks for the years ended on December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Beginning balance
    47,512       24,038       17,179  
Provision (i), note 24
    14,425       37,549       8,096  
Decreases
    (34,712 )     (14,075 )     (1,237 )
                         
Ending balance
    27,225       47,512       24,038  

(i)
The year 2008 provision include US$36.4 million related to the estimated liability arising from a fund managed by ASHC, which had invested with Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC (Madoff Securities) on behalf of its clients. The Group disbursed most part of this liability during 2009. In Management’s opinion, based in the information available up to date, it is not expected that any additional liability will be incurred.

Due to the nature of its business, the Group has some pending legal claims for which it records a provision when, in Management’s and its legal advisor’s opinion, they will result in an additional liability and such amount can be reliably estimated.  Regarding any legal claim against the Group which has not been provided for, in Management’s and its legal advisor’s opinion, they will not have a material effect on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

 
F-60

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

12.
Deposits and obligations
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Time deposits
    4,751,861       4,856,112  
Demand deposits
    4,521,746       4,578,247  
Saving deposits
    3,539,665       2,968,739  
Severance indemnity deposits
    1,069,506       1,039,887  
Client - Repurchase agreements
    35,000       294,030  
Bank’s negotiable certificates
    120,932       140,013  
                 
      14,038,710       13,877,028  
                 
Interest payable
    53,118       73,409  
                 
Total
    14,091,828       13,950,437  

The Group has established a policy to remunerate demand deposits and savings accounts according to an interest rate scale, based on their average balance; on the other hand balances that are lower than a specified amount, do not bear interest.

Interest rates are determined by the Group considering interest rates prevailing in the market in which each of the Group’s subsidiaries operates.  As of December 31, 2009, the Group has hedged time deposits with variable interest rates through interest rate swaps for a notional amount of US$316.0 million (US$177.9 million, as of December 31, 2008); as a result, these time deposits were economically converted to fixed rate, see note 11(b).

 
F-61

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(b)
The amounts of non-interest and interest bearing deposits and obligations are made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Non-interest bearing deposits and obligations -
           
   In Peru
    2,613,118       2,710,770  
   In other countries
    684,877       502,759  
      3,297,995       3,213,529  
Interest bearing deposits and obligations -
               
   In Peru
    8,778,750       8,689,977  
   In other countries
    1,961,965       1,973,522  
      10,740,715       10,663,499  
                 
Total
    14,038,710       13,877,028  

 
(c)
Time deposits balance classified by maturity is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Up to 3 months
    3,384,624       3,039,029  
From 3 months to 1 year
    1,134,480       1,578,258  
From 1 to 3 years
    147,135       147,008  
From 3 to 5  years
    82,088       51,876  
More than 5 years
    3,534       39,941  
                 
Total
    4,751,861       4,856,112  

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, in Management’s opinion the Group’s deposits and obligations are widely diversified with no significant concentrations.

 
F-62

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

13.
Due to banks and correspondents and borrowed funds
(a)
Due to bank and correspondents -
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
International funds and others (i)
    1,051,739       1,016,932  
Promotional credit lines (ii)
    81,550       109,730  
Inter-bank funds
    29,031       39,216  
      1,162,320       1,165,878  
Interest payable
    5,118       14,113  
                 
Total
    1,167,438       1,179,991  

 
(i)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Syndicated loan (*)
    410,000       410,000  
Corporación Andina de Fomento - CAF
    202,941       180,000  
Citibank N.A.
    71,552       20,000  
Wells Fargo & Co.
    60,000       60,326  
Standard Chartered Bank
    51,030       2,730  
Bank of America
    45,000       -  
Commercebank N.A.
    39,000       20,000  
Chase Manhattan Bank
    30,000       -  
Bank of New York
    30,000       20,000  
Toronto Dominion Bank
    -       47,000  
Dresdner Bank AG. Frankfurt
    -       45,000  
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
    -       32,000  
Other
    112,216       179,876  
                 
Total
    1,051,739       1,016,932  

 
(*)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, this amount was related to a syndicated loan amounting to US$ 410.0 million obtained from several international financial entities, with maturity due within three years and an interest rate of Libor plus 0.70 percent during the first year, Libor plus 0.75 percent during the second year and Libor plus 0.85 percent during the third year.  The syndicated loan, subject to variable interest rate risk, has been hedged through interest rate swap operations for a notional amount of US$410.0 million with the same maturities; as a result, this loan was economically converted to fixed rate, see note 11(b).

 
F-63

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

As of December 31, 2009, these loans have maturities between January 2010 and February 2019 (between January 2009 and March 2011 as of December 31, 2008) and their annual interest rate is between 0.73 and 12.00 percent (between 3.11 and 7.77 percent as of December 2008).

Some of these borrowings include standard covenants related to financial ratios, use of funds and other administrative matters, which in Management’s opinion, do not limit the Group’s operations and it has fully complied with as of the consolidated statements of financial position.

 
(ii)
Promotional credit lines represent loans granted to BCP by Corporación Financiera de Desarrollo (COFIDE) to promote the development of Peru, they have maturities between January 2010 and December 2029 and their annual interest rates are between 6.25 and 7.75 percent (between October 2009 and December 2028 and annual interest rate between 6.20 and 7.75 percent as of December 31, 2008). These credit lines are secured by a loan portfolio amounting to US$81.6 and US$109.7 million as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Promotional credit lines include standard covenants related to financial ratios, use of funds and other administrative matters, which in Management’s opinion, do not limit the Group’s operations and it has fully complied with as of the consolidated statements of financial position.

(b)
Borrowed funds -
This item is made up as follows:

   
Interest
 
Maturity
 
2009
   
2008
 
   
%
     
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                     
CCR Inc. MT-100, Payment rights master Trust -
                   
2005 Series A Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 21 bps
 
10/10/2012
    213,110       221,079  
2005 Series B Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 60 bps
 
12/10/2009
    -       37,918  
2006 Series A Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 24 bps
 
10/03/2016
    100,000       100,000  
2007 Series A Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 28 bps
 
10/07/2017
    350,000       350,000  
2007 Series B Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 25 bps
 
10/07/2014
    150,000       150,000  
2008 Series A Fixed Rate Certificates
 
6.27
 
10/06/2015
    126,111       141,719  
2008 Series B Floating Rate Certificates
 
Libor 1m + 225 bps
 
10/12/2015
    150,000       150,000  
                         
Total
            1,089,221       1,150,716  

All issuances are secured by the collection of BCP’s (including its foreign branches) future inflows from electronic messages sent through the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications network and utilized within the network to instruct correspondent banks to make a payment of a certain amount to a beneficiary that is not a financial institution.

 
F-64

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Loans obtained include the obligation to comply with certain covenants which, in Management’s opinion, are being fulfilled at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.

BCP has signed an insurance policy with AMBAC Assurance Corporation, which guarantees the timely payment of scheduled principal and certain accrued interest of all of the 2007 and 2006 issuances (Series A y B).

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, Series 2007 (A and B) and a portion (70 percent) of the 2005 total issuance (Series A and B), subject to variable interest rate risk, are hedged through an interest rate swap operation; as a result, these issuance were economically converted to fixed rate, see note 11(b).

 
(c)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, maturities of due to bank and correspondents and borrowed funds are shown below, based on the remaining period to the repayment date:

Due to bank and correspondents
 
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Up to 3 months
    622,342       369,483  
From 3 months to 1 year
    235,913       256,884  
From 1 to 3 years
    210,125       502,039  
From 3 to 5 years
    31,048       6,468  
More than 5 years
    62,892       31,004  
                 
Total
    1,162,320       1,165,878  
                 
Borrowed funds
 
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                 
Up to 1 year
    113,857       63,324  
From 1 to 3 years
    394,759       317,541  
From 3 to 5 years
    312,297       362,374  
More than 5 years
    268,308       407,477  
                 
Total
    1,089,221       1,150,716  

 
(d)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, credit lines granted by several local and foreign financial institutions, available for future operating activities or to settle capital commitments amounted to US$1,812.2 million (US$1,617.0 million as of December 31, 2008).

 
F-65

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

14.
Technical reserves, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
 
   
Reserves for 
direct claims
   
Claims assumed
   
Technical 
reserves
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Life insurance
    70,960       -       630,183       701,143  
General insurance
    139,539       2,828       112,804       255,171  
Health insurance
    38,625       8       23,844       62,477  
                                 
Total
    249,124       2,836       766,831       1,018,791  

   
2008
 
   
Reserves for 
direct claims
   
Claims assumed
   
Technical 
reserves
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Life insurance
    64,553       -       553,127       617,680  
General insurance
    137,297       32,812       124,846       294,955  
Health insurance
    37,741       27       17,367       55,135  
                                 
Total
    239,591       32,839       695,340       967,770  

Insurance claims reserves represent reported claims and an estimation for incurred but non reported claims (IBNR).  Reported claims are adjusted on the basis of technical reports received from independent adjusters.  Claims to be paid by the reinsurers and coinsurers are shown as ceded claims, which are presented in the caption “Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers”.

As of December 31, 2009, the reserves for direct claims include reserves for IBNR for life, general and health insurance for an amount of US$20.2 million, US$4.3 million and US$19.3 million, respectively (US$15.2, US$4.7 and US$20.1 millions, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

During 2009 and previous years, the differences between the estimations for the incurred and non-reported claims and the settled and pending liquidation claims have not been significant.  In the case of general and health risks, retrospective analysis indicate that the amounts provisioned are greater than the settled claims and those pending liquidation by a percentage that does not exceed 10 percent of the provisioned amounts.  Management believes that the estimated IBNR reserve is sufficient to cover any liability as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

The movement for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 of insurance claims and technical reserves is as follows:

 
F-66

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(b)
Insurance claims reserves (direct and assumed):

   
2009
 
   
Life insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Initial balance
    64,553       170,109       37,768       272,430  
Claims
    80,970       108,397       148,985       338,352  
Payments
    (76,301 )     (136,315 )     (149,731 )     (362,347 )
Translation result
    1,738       176       1,611       3,525  
                                 
Final balance
    70,960       142,367       38,633       251,960  

   
2008
 
   
Life insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Initial balance
    50,046       114,144       25,108       189,298  
Claims
    88,059       163,251       155,387       406,697  
Payments
    (72,676 )     (107,197 )     (141,470 )     (321,343 )
Translation result
    (876 )     (89 )     (1,257 )     (2,222 )
                                 
Final balance
    64,553       170,109       37,768       272,430  

 
F-67

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(c)
Technical reserves:

   
2009
 
   
Life
insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health
insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Initial balance
    553,127       124,846       17,367       695,340  
Accretion expenses and other
    16,384       -       -       16,384  
Unearned premium reserves and annual variation, net
    3,393       (14,016 )     6,580       (4,043 )
Insurance subscriptions
    79,990       -       -       79,990  
Payments
    (8,122 )     -       -       (8,122 )
Translation result
    (14,589 )     1,974       (103 )     (12,718 )
                                 
Final balance
    630,183       112,804       23,844       766,831  

   
2008
 
   
Life
insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health
insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Initial balance
    500,768       97,646       15,766       614,180  
Accretion expenses and other
    14,808       -       -       14,808  
Unearned premium reserves and annual variation, net
    1,433       27,200       1,601       30,234  
Insurance subscriptions
    70,311       -       -       70,311  
Payments
    (26,732 )     -       -       (26,732 )
Translation result
    (7,461 )     -       -       (7,461 )
                                 
Final balance
    553,127       124,846       17,367       695,340  

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, no additional reserves were needed as a result of the liability adequacy test.  The main assumptions used in estimation of annuities, disability and survivor reserves as of those dates, were the following:

Modality
 
Mortality Table
 
Technical rates
         
Life Immediate Annuity
 
RV–2004, B-85 and MI-85
 
4.90% - 5.22% in US$ and 3.20% in S/
Survorship and Disability Pension
 
RV-85, B-85 and MI-85
 
Old regime 3.00%
Individual Life
 
CSO 80 adjustable
 
4.00% - 5.00%
 
 
F-68

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
The mortality tables used are those recommended by the Peruvian regulator (SBS).

The sensitivity of the estimates used by the Group to measure its insurance risks is represented primarily by the life insurance risks; the main variables as of December 31, 2009, are the interest rates and the mortality tables used.  The Group has evaluated the changes of the reserves related to its most significant life insurance (Life immediate annuities) of +/- 100 bps of the interest rates and of +/- 5 bps of the mortality factors, being the results as follows:

         
Variation of the reserve
 
Variables 
 
Amount of the
reserve
   
Amount
   
Percentage
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
%
 
                   
Portfolio in US$ - Basis amount
    340,580              
Changes in interest rates: + 100 bps
    310,604       (29,976 )     (8.80 )
Changes in interest rates: - 100 bps
    376,083       35,503       10.42  
Changes in Mortality tables to 105%
    336,740       (3,840 )     (1.13 )
Changes in Mortality tables to 95%
    344,631       4,051       1.19  
                         
           
Variation of the reserve
 
Variables 
 
Amount of the
reserve
   
Amount
   
Percentage
 
   
US$ (000)
   
US$ (000)
   
%
 
                         
Portfolio in S/ - Basis amount
    24,386                  
Changes in interest rates: + 100 bps
    21,700       (2,686 )     (11.01 )
Changes in interest rates: - 100 bps
    27,728       3,342       13.70  
Changes in Mortality tables to 105%
    24,205       (181 )     (0.74 )
Changes in Mortality tables to 95%
    24,577       191       0.78  
 
 
F-69

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
15.
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
Weighted
average annual interest rate
               
   
2009
   
2008
 
Maturity
 
2009
   
2008
 
   
%
   
%
     
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                           
Corporate bonds (i)
    6.04       6.91  
Between September 2010 and July 2018
    440,092       227,902  
Leasing bonds (i)
    7.11       6.87  
Between February 2010 and August 2018
    188,265       217,863  
Subordinated bonds (i)
    7.35       6.71  
Between October 2010 and May 2027
    113,281       61,074  
Mortgage bonds
    7.67       7.69  
Between January 2011 and April 2012
    10,504       15,278  
Subordinated negotiable certificates notes (ii)
    6.95       6.95  
November 2021
    117,560       117,512  
Subordinated notes (iii)
    7.17       7.17  
October 2017
    154,329       137,761  
Junior subordinated notes (iv)
    9.75       -  
November 2069
    249,700       -  
                        1,273,731       777,390  
                                   
Interest payable
                      13,291       7,840  
                                   
Total
                      1,287,022       785,230  

 
F-70

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(i)
During 2009 y 2008, the Group issued corporate, subordinated and leasing bonds for the following amounts:

Issuances 2009
 
Amount
 
Currency
 
Maturity
 
Rate
 
   
US$(000)
             
                   
Corporate Bonds BCP -
                 
Fourth issuance - Series A, B, C and D
    63,465  
Nuevo sol
 
2014
  6.31 - 6.88  
Fifth issuance – Series A
    17,301  
Nuevo sol
 
2013
 
5.31
 
      80,766              
                     
Subordinated Bonds BCP -
                   
Fourth issuance Series A, B, C and D
    113,822  
US$
 
2016
 
6.53 – 8.50
 
                     
Corporate Bonds BCP Emisiones Latam 1 S.A.
                   
First issuance – Series A (*)
    111,508  
UF
 
2014
 
3.50
 

 
(*)
BCP Emisiones Latam 1 S.A. issued corporate bonds (Series A) for 2.7 million “Chilean Unidades de Fomento - UF”.  The Group can redeem 100 percent of the bonds only if the legal reserve funds legislation and tax law, related to income tax and value added tax, change in Peru, Panama or Chile.  This debt, subject to foreign exchange risk, has been hedged through CCS, as a result, these bonds were economically converted to US$ Dollars, see note 11(b).

Issuances 2008
 
Amount
 
Currency
 
Maturity
 
Rate
 
   
US$(000)
             
                   
Corporate Bonds BCP -
                 
Second issuance - Series A
    25,932  
Nuevo sol
 
2011
  5.78  
First issuance - Series B
    38,152  
Nuevo sol
 
2015
 
6.81
 
Third issuance - Series A and B
    63,694  
Nuevo sol
 
2018
 
7.47 – 8.50
 
      127,778              
 
 
F-71

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
Issuances 2008
 
Amount
 
Currency
 
Maturity
 
Rate
 
   
US$(000)
             
                   
Leasing Bonds BCP -
                 
Fourth issuance - Series A, B, C y D
    83,492  
US$
 
2011
  5.47 – 6.25  
Fourth issuance - Series A y B
    14,392  
Nuevo sol
 
2011
 
5.72 – 6.06
 
Sixth issuance - Series A
    31,487  
Nuevo sol
 
2018
 
8.72
 
      129,371              

During 2009, redeemed corporate, leasing and subordinate bonds amounted to US$6.9 million, US$34.6 million and US$17.3 million, respectively (US$23.9 million, US$84.8 million and US$40.3 million, respectively, during 2008).

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group has hedged fixed corporate and leasing bonds issued in Peruvian currency for a notional amount of US$ US$113.4 million and US$15.7 million, respectively, subjects to foreign exchange and interest rate risk through CCS and IRS; these bonds were economically converted to US Dollars with fixed rate, see note 11(b).

Leasing and mortgages bonds are collateralized by the fixed assets financed by the Group.

   
(ii)
These certificates were issued in US dollars and accrue a fixed annual interest rate of 6.95 percent for the first 10 years (November 2016), with payment each six months.  After the first 10 years, the interest rate will change to a variable interest rate, established as Libor plus 2.79 percent, with semiannual payments. At the end of the first 10 years, the Group can redeem 100 percent of the debt, without penalties.

   
(iii)
In October 2007, BCP through its Panama branch, issued Subordinated Notes for S/483.3 million in the international market with principal maturity on 2022.  This debt accrues a fixed annual interest rate of 7.17 percent for the first 10 years, with semiannual payments.  After the first 10 years, interest rate will be the market interest rate for sovereign bonds issued by the Peruvian Government with maturity on 2037, plus 150 basis points, with semiannual payments.  At that date, BCP can redeem 100 percent of the notes, without penalties.  This debt, subject to foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk, was hedged until October 2009, see note 11(b)(v).

   
(iv)
In November 2009, BCP through its Panama branch issued Junior Subordinated Notes for US$250.0 million in the international market with principal maturity on 2069.  This debt accrues a fixed annual interest rate of 9.75 percent, for the first 10 years, with semiannual payments.  After the first 10 years, in November 2019, interest rate will be variable, Libor 3 months plus 816.7 basis points, with quarterly payments; at that date and or any interest payment date, BCP can redeem 100 percent of the notes, without penalties and after full filing certain requirements.

 
F-72

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
Interest payments are non-cumulative such that, if an interest payment is not made in full or cancelled as set forth due to BCP’s rights to cancel interest payments, a mandatory prohibitions established by SBS, or if determines that BCP is in non-compliance with applicable minimum regulatory capital; the unpaid interest will not accrue or be due and payable at any time and shall not constitute an acceleration event.  In those cases, BCP will not, and will not cause its majority owned subsidiaries to declare, pay or distribute a dividend for a period of time established since the interest payments are not cancelled.

This debt does not have collateral and qualifies as Tier 1 capital for SBS regulations.

 
(b)
Bonds and subordinated notes, classified by maturity are shown below:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Up to 3 months
    26,076       1,717  
From 3 months to 1 year
    74,413       64,190  
From 1 to 3 years
    191,344       235,867  
From 3 to 5 years
    274,781       75,398  
Over 5 years
    707,117       400,218  
                 
Total
    1,273,731       777,390  

Bonds and subordinated notes issued have has certain financial and operating covenants which, in Credicorp Management’s opinion, the Group is in compliance at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.
 
 
F-73

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
16. 
Equity
 
(a)
Share capital -
As of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, 94,382,317 shares of capital stock were issued at US$5 per share.

 
(b)
Treasury stock -
As of December 31, 2009, treasury stock comprises the par value of 14,847,842 Credicorp’s shares (14,620,842 Credicorp’s shares as of December, 31, 2008 and 2007) owned by the Group’s companies.

The difference between their acquisition cost of US$198.0 million and their par value of US$74.2 million, (acquisition cost of US$ 186.5 million and their par value of US$ 73.1 million as of December 31, 2008 and 2007) is presented as a reduction of the “Capital surplus”.

 
(c)
Reserves -
In accordance with Peruvian regulation, a reserve of up to at least 35 percent of paid-in capital of the Group’s subsidiaries operating in Peru is required to be established through annual transfers of at least 10 percent of their net income.  In accordance with Bolivian regulation, a reserve of up to at least 50 percent of paid-in capital of the Group’s subsidiaries operating in Bolivia is required to be established through annual transfers of at least 10 percent of their net income.  As of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, these reserves amounted to approximately US$ 242.9, US$231.7 and US$222.7 million, respectively.

The Shareholders’ meetings held on March 31, 2009, March 28, 2008 and February 28, 2007 agreed to transfer from “Retained earnings” to “Reserves” an amount of US$238.1, US$228.2 and US$107.3 million, respectively.

The caption “Other reserves” includes the unrealized net gain (loss) from available-for-sale investments and from derivatives instruments used as cash flows hedge net of its corresponding deferred income tax, and minority interest; its movement is as follows:
 
 
F-74

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
   
Unrealized net gain (loss) of:
 
   
Available-for-sale investments
reserve
   
Cash flow hedge
reserve
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Balances as of January 1, 2007
    144,471       2,938       147,409  
                         
Net unrealized gain from available-for-sale investments
    85,129       -       85,129  
Transfer of net realized gain from investments available-for-sale to the income statement, net of realized loss
    (17,634 )     -       (17,634 )
Transfer of impairment on investment available-for-sale to income statement
    5,017       -       5,017  
Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedge
    -       (39,385 )     (39,385 )
Transfer of net realized gain from cash flow hedge to the income statement
    -       (986 )     (986 )
Balances as of December 31, 2007
    216,983       (37,433 )     179,550  
                         
Net unrealized loss from available-for-sale investments
    (164,302 )     -       (164,302 )
Transfer of net realized gain from investments available-for-sale to the income statement, net of realized loss
    (35,684 )     -       (35,684 )
Transfer of impairment on investment available-for-sale to income statement, note 5(c)
    55,732       -       55,732  
Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedge, note 11(b)(ii)
    -       (94,937 )     (94,937 )
Transfer of net realized loss from cash flow hedge to the income statement, note 11(b)(ii)
    -       14,248       14,248  
                         
Balances as of December 31, 2008
    72,729       (118,122 )     (45,393 )
                         
Net unrealized gain from available-for-sale investments
    319,041       -       319,041  
Transfer of net realized gain from investments available-for-sale to the income statement, net of realized loss
    (112,618 )     -       (112,618 )
Transfer of impairment on investment available-for-sale to income statement, note 5(c)
    9,825       -       9,825  
Net unrealized gain from cash flow hedge, note 11(b)(ii)
    -       30,317       30,317  
Transfer of net realized loss from cash flow hedge to the income statement, note 11(b)(ii)
    -       36,274       36,274  
                         
Balances as of December 31, 2009
    288,977       (51,531 )     237,446  

 
F-75

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(d)
Components of other comprehensive income -
The consolidated statement of comprehensive income includes other comprehensive income from available-for-sale investments and from derivatives instruments used as cash flows hedges; its movement is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Available-for-sale investments:
                 
                   
Net unrealized gain (loss) from available-for-sale investments
    319,041       (164,302 )     85,129  
Transfer of net realized gain from investments available-for-sale to the income statement, net of realized loss
    (112,618 )     (35,684 )     (17,634 )
Transfer of impairment on investment available-for-sale to income statement
    9,825       55,732       5,017  
Sub total
    216,248       (144,254 )     72,512  
Minority interest of available-for-sale
    45,019       (32,876 )     (426 )
                         
Income tax
    7,283       (21,516 )     11,046  
      268,550       (198,646 )     83,132  
                         
Cash flow hedge:
                       
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge
    30,317       (94,937 )     (39,385 )
Transfer of net realized loss (gain) from cash flow hedge to the income statement
    36,274       14,248       (986 )
Sub total
    66,591       (80,689 )     (40,371 )
Minority interest of cash flow hedge
    875       (604 )     -  
Income tax
    (1,442 )     -       -  
                         
      66,024       (81,293 )     (40,371 )

 
(e)
Dividend distribution -
During 2009, 2008 and 2007, Credicorp paid cash dividends, net of the effect of treasury shares, for approximately US$119.3, US$119.6 and US$103.7 million, respectively.

The Shareholders Meeting dated on March 31, 2010 agreed to declare a cash dividend of US$1.70 per Common Share for a total amount of approximately US$160.4 million, corresponding to the results of 2009, which was paid in cash on May 11, 2010.

In accordance with current Peruvian legislation, there is no restriction for overseas remittance of dividends or the repatriation of foreign investment.  Dividends paid by the Peruvian subsidiaries to Credicorp are subject to a withholding tax of 4.1 percent.
 
 
F-76

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(f)
Equity for legal purposes (Regulatory capital) -
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the regulatory capital for Credicorp’s subsidiaries engaged in financial and insurance activities in Peru calculated following SBS regulations amounted to approximately US$ 2,221.1 and US$1,604.7 million, respectively.  On the other hand, the consolidated regulatory capital for Credicorp exceeds by approximately US$660.3 million the minimum regulatory capital required as of December 31, 2009 (approximately US$263.6 million as of December 31, 2008).

17.
Taxes
 
(a)
Credicorp is not subject to income tax or any taxes on capital gains, equity or property.  Credicorp’s Peruvian subsidiaries are subject to corporate taxation on income under the Peruvian Tax system.  The statutory Income Tax rate is 30 percent on taxable income after calculating the workers’ profit sharing, which in accordance with current legislation is determined using a 5 percent rate.

Credicorp´s Bolivian subsidiaries are subject to corporate taxation on income under the Bolivian Tax system.  The statutory income tax rate is 25 percent.

ASHC and its Subsidiaries are not subject to taxes in the Cayman Islands or Panama.  For the three years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, no taxable income was generated from its operations in the United States of America.

The reconciliation between the statutory income tax rate and the effective tax rate for the Group is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
%
   
%
   
%
 
                   
Peruvian statutory income tax rate
    30.00       30.00       30.00  
Increase (decrease) in the statutory tax rate due to:
                       
(i)  Increase arising from net income of subsidiaries not domiciled in Peru
    0.26       4.39       0.46  
(ii)  Non-taxable income, net
    (3.98 )     (14.90 )     (5.76 )
(iii) Translation results not considered for tax purposes
    (4.74 )     3.38       (3.15 )
                         
Effective income tax rate
    21.54       22.87       21.55  
 
 
F-77

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(b)
Income tax expense as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 comprises:

 
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Current -
                 
In Peru
    143,925       110,365       114,496  
In other countries
    3,127       3,537       2,712  
      147,052       113,902       117,208  
                         
Deferred -
                       
In Peru
    (8,552 )     (4,394 )     (14,921 )
                         
Total
    138,500       109,508       102,287  

The deferred income tax has been calculated on all temporary differences considering an income tax rate of 30 percent.

 
(c)
The following table presents a summary of the Group’s deferred income tax:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Assets
           
Allowance for loan losses, net
    40,830       28,337  
Share-based compensation rights provision
    14,539       11,578  
Reserve for sundry risks, net
    11,369       9,709  
Non-accrued interest
    1,763       1,713  
Tax loss carry-forward –PPS
    251       6,013  
Other
    15,318       9,823  
Deferred income tax asset
    84,070       67,173  
                 
Liabilities
               
Unrealized net gains on investments
    (28,771 )     (13,494 )
Intangibles assets, net
    (24,960 )     (23,128 )
Deferred commissions
    (7,996 )     (6,926 )
Indexed certificates
    (7,388 )     (815 )
Leasing operations, net
    (2,303 )     (1,862 )
Gain for difference tax exchange
    (1,434 )     (5,502 )
Other
    (16,554 )     (14,406 )
Deferred income tax liability
    (89,406 )     (66,133 )
                 
Net deferred income tax asset (liability)
    (5,336 )     1,040  
 
 
F-78

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
Credicorp and its subsidiaries have recorded a deferred income tax as part of the equity caption “Other  reserves” for US$14.1, US$19.6, and US$10.1 million, as of December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively, related to the income tax effects of unrealized gains and losses on investments available for sale and cash flow hedges.  Likewise, the Group recognized the deferred tax liability arising from the acquisition of Edyficar (Note 2) and AFP Unión Vida (year 2006) for approximately US$24.3 million as of December 31, 2009 (US$23.4 million as of December 31, 2008).

 
(d)
The Peruvian Tax Authority has the right to review and, if necessary, amend the annual tax returns of the Peruvian subsidiaries up to four years after their filing.  BCP’s tax returns for years 2001-2005 and PPS’s tax returns for years 2001-2006, were reviewed by the Tax Authority; no significant additional taxes arose from said reviews.  Management of each subsidiary has filed an appeal in the applicable cases.

The annual tax returns 2006 to 2008 for BCP and 2007 to 2008 for PPS, are pending review.  Any additional tax arising as a result of the Tax Authority review will be charged to income in the year when such additional tax is determined.  At present, it is not possible to estimate the adjustments that the Tax Authority may determine; however, in Management’s opinion, it is not expected that any additional tax will be determined in amounts considered significant to the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

18.
Share-based compensation plans
 
(a)
Stock appreciation rights -
As indicated in note 3(w), Credicorp has granted stock appreciation rights (SARs) to certain key employees who have at least one year serving Credicorp or any of its subsidiaries.  At the grant date and in each one of the subsequent three years, the granted SARs may be exercised up to 25 percent of all SARs granted in the plan.  The SARs expire up to 2014.
 
 
F-79

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The number of outstanding SARs and their exercise prices are as follows:

Year of
Issuance
 
Number of outstanding SARs
issued as of December 31
   
Number of Vested SARs
as of December 31
   
Exercise price
 
   
2009
     
2008(*)
    
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                             
US$
   
US$
 
                                       
2001
    -       60,000       -       60,000       4.30       4.80  
2002
    52,500       60,000       52,500       60,000       5.98       6.48  
2003
    96,900       134,900       96,900       134,900       7.17       7.67  
2004
    118,750       185,950       118,750       185,950       9.99       10.49  
2005
    155,000       241,700       155,000       241,700       15.00       15.50  
2006
    226,250       362,800       226,250       327,784       24.32       24.82  
2007
    235,785       513,125       214,831       320,859       24.32       48.00  
                                                 
2008
    262,278       656,750       174,045       286,625       24.32       72.04  
                                                 
      1,147,463       2,215,225       1,038,276       1,617,818                  

 
(*)
On April 2009, the number of outstanding SARs and their exercise prices were modified; these changes did not have an impact on the recorded liability. Also, since that date, no more SARs are granted and a new supplementary plan was implemented to benefit the same employees in the form of stock awards, see (b).

Credicorp’s Management has estimated the SARs´ fair value as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, using the binomial option pricing model, considering the following market information:

Key assumptions
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
Expected volatility
    37.48 %     34.98 %
Risk free interest rate
    4.23 %     6.25 %
Expected lifetime
 
3.93 years
   
4.84 years
 
Quoted price of Credicorp shares at year-end
  US$ 77.02     US$ 49.96  

The expected life of the SARs is based on historical data and current expectations and is not necessarily indicative of exercise patterns that may occur. The expected volatility reflects the assumption that the historical volatility over a period similar to the life of the SARs is indicative of future trends, which may also not necessarily be the actual outcome.

 
F-80

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The movement of SARs for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Outstanding
SARs
   
Vested
SARs
   
Outstanding
SARs
   
Vested
SARs
 
   
Number
   
Number
   
Amount
   
Number
   
Number
   
Amount
 
               
US$(000)
               
US$(000)
 
                                     
Balance as of January 1st
    2,215,225       1,617,818       42,987       2,134,650       1,537,119       89,602  
SARs modification
    (451,143 )     (451,143 )     -       -       -       -  
Granted and vested
    -       366,845       19,333       665,500       576,874       9,498  
Exercised
    (495,244 )     (495,244 )     (17,761 )     (496,175 )     (496,175 )     (19,734 )
Decrease
    (121,375 )     -       -       (88,750 )     -       -  
Increase (decrease) in the option fair value
    -       -       15,929       -       -       (36,379 )
                                                 
Balance as of December 31
    1,147,463       1,038,276       60,488       2,215,225       1,617,818       42,987  

Credicorp assumes the payment of the related income tax on behalf of its employees, which corresponds to 30 percent of the benefit.  Credicorp estimates said income tax over the basis of the liability recorded for the vested benefits.

The liabilities, including the above mentioned income tax, recorded for this plan are included in the consolidated statements of financial position caption “Other liabilities – Payroll taxes, salaries and other personnel expenses”, note 11(a), and the expenses in the consolidated income statement caption “Salaries and employees benefits”.  In 2009, 2008 and 2007, SARs prices were modified and informed to the Group’s employees.

During 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Group signed several contracts by which it acquired certificates linked to the yield of Credicorp’s shares, see note 7(b).

(b)
Stock awards (“equity-settled transaction”)
Under this new plan, Credicorp granted approximately 227,000 of its own shares to the plan beneficiaries.  Shares granted will vest up to 33.3 percent of all granted shares in each one of the subsequent three years to the grant date (April 28, 2009).

 
F-81

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The fair value of stock awards granted was estimated at the grant date using a binomial pricing model with similar key assumptions as those used for the valuation of SARs (see paragraph (a) above), taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the shares were granted.  As a result, the total fair value of the stocks awarded at the grant date amounted to US$11.5 million.

As of December 31, 2009, the number of vested stock awards amounts to 104,042 shares, and the recognized expense amounts to US$5.8 million for the year 2009.  Credicorp assumes the payment of the related income tax on behalf of employees, which corresponds to 30 percent of the benefit.  Credicorp estimates said income tax over the basis of the fair value of the shares granted at the grant date.

19.
Off-balance sheet accounts
 
(a)
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Contingent credits - indirect loans (b)
           
Guarantees and standby letters
    2,108,761       1,506,506  
Import and export letters of credit
    419,374       249,396  
      2,528,135       1,755,902  
                 
Responsibilities under credit lines agreements (d)
    1,557,674       1,234,964  
Forward currency contracts - sell (c)
    1,303,588       1,552,917  
Forward currency contracts - buy (c)
    (1,381,973 )     (925,317 )
Options
    24,374       -  
Swaps Contracts (c)
               
Interest rate swaps
    2,161,613       2,160,390  
Currency swaps
    435,518       192,899  
Cross currency swaps
    558,882       317,043  
                 
Total
    7,187,811       6,288,798  

 
(b)
In the normal course of its business, the Group’s banking subsidiaries are party to transactions with off-balance sheet risk.  These transactions expose them to credit risk in addition to the amounts recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position.
 
 
F-82

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Credit risk for off-balance sheet financial instruments is defined as the possibility of sustaining a loss because any other party to a financial instrument fails to perform in accordance with the terms of the contract. The exposures to losses are represented by the contractual amounts specified in the related contracts. The Group applies the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments (note 6(a)), including the requirement to obtain collateral when it is deemed necessary. Collateral held varies, but may include deposits in financial institutions, securities or other assets. Many of the contingent transactions are expected to expire without any performance being required; therefore, the total committed amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

 
(c)
As explained in note 11(b), as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, Credicorp has signed different contracts related to derivative financial instruments as follows:

Currency forwards are commitments to buy or sell currency at a future date at a contracted price.  Risk arises from the possibility that the counter-party to the transaction does not perform as agreed and from the changes in the prices of the underlying currencies.

Interest rate and currency swaps are derivatives contracts where counter parties exchange variable interest rates for fixed interest rates or different currencies, respectively, in the terms and conditions established at the contract inception.  The risk arises each time the projected level of the variable rate during the term of the contract is higher than the swap rate, as well as from non-compliance with contractual terms by one of the parties.

Cross currency swap derivative contract involves the exchange of interest payments based on two different currency principal balances and reference interest rate, generally also includes the exchange of principal amounts at the start and / or end of the contract.

 
(d)
Responsibilities under credit lines agreements include credit lines and other consumer loans facilities (credit card) and are cancelable upon notification to the client.
 
 
F-83

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

20.
Interest and dividend income and interest expenses
These items are made up as follow:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Interest and dividend income
                 
Interest on loans
    1,062,046       963,940       701,471  
Interest on investments available-for-sale
    183,309       296,853       228,473  
Interest on due from banks
    15,918       75,266       105,817  
Dividends from investments available-for-sale and trading securities
    9,715       12,189       8,870  
Interest on trading securities
    3,320       1,168       3,289  
Other interest income
    38,617       33,428       17,419  
                         
Total
    1,312,925       1,382,844       1,065,339  
                         
Interest expenses
                       
Interest on deposits and obligations
    (226,875 )     (360,238 )     (295,750 )
Interest on bonds and subordinated notes issued
    (66,993 )     (51,756 )     (33,592 )
Interest on due to banks and correspondents and borrowed funds
    (51,654 )     (104,818 )     (83,070 )
Loss from hedging derivatives instruments
    (10,593 )     (502 )     -  
Other interest expenses
    (64,449 )     (44,303 )     (18,953 )
                         
Total
    (420,564 )     (561,617 )     (431,365 )

During 2009, 2008 and 2007, the interest income accrued on impaired financial instrument recognized in the consolidated income statement amounted to US$5.0, US$4.7 and US$3.5 million, respectively.

 
F-84

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

21.
Banking services commissions
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Maintenance of accounts and transfers and credit and debit card services
    196,642       180,512       152,626  
Funds management
    100,160       102,760       83,726  
Collection services
    42,841       26,795       27,163  
Contingent credits
    33,339       30,174       23,819  
Commissions for banking services
    14,657       12,851       9,468  
Brokerage and custody services
    10,130       10,075       13,708  
Other
    39,050       31,080       14,251  
                         
Total
    436,819       394,247       324,761  

22.
Net premiums earned
This item is made up as follows:

   
Gross
premiums (*)
   
Premiums
ceded to
reinsurers, net
(**)
   
Assumed
from other
companies, net
   
Net premiums
earned
   
Percentage
of assumed net
premiums
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
%
 
                               
2009
                             
Life insurance
    121,449       -       -       121,449       -  
Health insurance
    174,396       (2,536 )     2,967       174,827       1.70  
General insurance
    232,369       (110,613 )     6,650       128,406       5.18  
                                         
Total
    528,214       (113,149 )     9,617       424,682       2.26  
                                         
2008
                                       
Life insurance
    110,730       (2,484 )     6       108,252       -  
Health insurance
    169,410       (2,692 )     -       166,718       -  
General insurance
    218,563       (105,431 )     5,801       118,933       4.88  
                                         
Total
    498,703       (110,607 )     5,807       393,903       1.47  
 
 
F-85

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

   
Gross
premiums (*)
   
Premiums
ceded to
reinsurers, net
(**)
   
Assumed
from other
companies, net
   
Net premiums
earned
   
Percentage
of assumed net
premiums
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
%
 
                               
2007
                             
Life insurance
    89,598       (2,658 )     1,408       88,348       1.59  
Health insurance
    129,306       (2,488 )     116       126,934       0.09  
General insurance
    146,331       (71,759 )     7,418       81,990       9.05  
                                         
Total
    365,235       (76,905 )     8,942       297,272       3.01  

(*) 
Includes the annual variation of the technical and unearned premiums reserves.

(**) 
“Premiums ceded to reinsurers, net” include:
 
 
(i)
US$20.8 million for non- proportional automatic contracts (excess of loss) (US$22.6 million in the year 2008),
 
(ii)
US$4.0 million for reinstallation premiums (US$3.7 million in the year 2008) and
 
(iii)
US$72.9 million for facultative contracts and US$15.4 for not accrual premiums ceded reserves (US$85.4 y US$(1.1) million in the year 2008).

23.
Net claims incurred for life, general and health insurance contracts
This item is made up as follows:

   
2009
 
   
Life insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Gross insurance claims
    80,971       108,397       148,985       338,353  
Ceded claims
    (1,762 )     (49,149 )     (984 )     (51,895 )
                                 
Net insurance claims
    79,209       59,248       148,001       286,458  
 
 
F-86

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

   
2008
 
   
Life insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Gross insurance claims
    88,059       163,251       155,387       406,697  
Ceded claims
    (1,693 )     (61,361 )     (1,733 )     (64,787 )
                                 
Net insurance claims
    86,366       101,890       153,654       341,910  

   
2007
 
   
Life insurance
   
General insurance
   
Health 
insurance
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Gross insurance claims
    63,744       152,351       108,767       324,862  
Ceded claims
    (52 )     (84,662 )     (1,548 )     (86,262 )
                                 
Net insurance claims
    63,692       67,689       107,219       238,600  

24.
Other income and expenses
These items are made up as follow:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Other income
                 
Recoveries of other accounts receivable and other assets
    8,520       2,859       3,113  
Income from the sale of seized assets
    4,092       12,895       10,689  
Real estate rental income
    4,035       7,743       3,519  
Other
    15,497       14,175       7,613  
                         
Total other income
    32,144       37,672       24,934  
                         
Other expenses
                       
Commissions from insurance activities
    42,701       39,364       29,135  
Provision for sundry risks, note 11(d)
    14,425       37,549       8,096  
Sundry technical insurance expenses
    13,574       9,158       21,929  
Provision for other accounts receivables
    9,590       3,288       2,836  
Other
    16,460       12,517       10,003  
                         
Total other expenses
    96,750       101,876       71,999  
 
 
F-87

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

25.
Earnings per share
The net earnings per ordinary share has been determined over the net income attributable to equity holders of Credicorp as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Net income attributable to equity holders of Credicorp (in thousands of U.S. dollars)
    469,785       357,756       350,735  
                         
Number of shares:
                       
Ordinary shares, note 16(a)
    94,382,317       94,382,317       94,382,317  
Less - treasury shares, note 16(b)
    (14,620,842 )     (14,620,842 )     (14,620,842 )
Acquisition  of treasury shares
    (170,250 )     -       -  
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for basic earnings
    79,591,225       79,761,475       79,761,475  
                         
Plus - effect of dilution:
                       
Stock awards
    72,243       -       -  
Weighted average number of ordinary shares adjusted for the effect of dilution
    79,663,468       79,761,475       79,761,475  
                         
Basic earnings per share (in U.S. Dollars)
    5.90       4.49       4.40  
Diluted earnings per share (in U.S. Dollars)
    5.90       4.49       4.40  

26.
Operating segments
For management purposes, the Group is organized into four operating segments based on products and services as follows:

Banking:
Principally handling loans, credit facilities, deposits and current accounts, and providing investment banking services, including corporate finance, both for corporate and institutional customers.  Furthermore, handling deposits consumer loans and credit cards facilities for individual customers.

Insurance:
Including commercial property, transportation and marine hull, automobile, life, health and pension fund underwriting insurance.

Pension funds:
Providing private pension fund management services to contributors.

 
F-88

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Brokerage and other:
Including the structuring and placement of primary market issues and the execution and trading of secondary market transactions. In addition, offers local securitization structuring to corporate entities, management of mutual funds, and other services.

Certain operating segments have been aggregated to form the above reportable operating segments.

The Group monitors the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment.  Segment performance is evaluated based on operating profit or loss and is measured consistently with operating profit or loss in the consolidated financial statements.

Transfer prices between operating segments are on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties.

No revenue from transactions with a single external customer or counterparty amounted to 10 percent or more of the Group’s total revenue in 2009, 2008, and 2007.

 
F-89

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(i)
The following table presents income and certain asset information recording the Group´s operating segments (in millions of U.S. Dollars) for the years ended 31 December 2009, 2008, and 2007:

   
External
income
   
Income from
other
segments
   
Eliminations
   
Total
income (*)
   
Operating
income (**)
   
Provision for
loan losses, net
of
recoveries
   
Depreciation
and
amortization
   
Impairment of
available–for–sale investments
   
Income before
translation result
and income tax
   
Translation
result and
income tax
   
Net
income
   
Capital
expenditures,
intangible
assets and
goodwill
   
Total assets
 
                                                                               
2009
                                                                             
Banking
    1,820       66       (66 )     1,820       831       (167 )     (57 )     (10 )     502       (96 )     406       163       20,120  
Insurance
    518       15       (15 )     518       192       -       (5 )     -       68       (4 )     64       17       1,457  
Pension funds
    80       -       -       80       -       -       (9 )     -       35       (10 )     25       2       237  
Brokerage and other
    40       65       (65 )     40       8       4       -       -       25       (16 )     9       1       214  
                                                                                                         
Total consolidated
    2,458       146       (146 )     2,458       1,031       (163 )     (71 )     (10 )     630       (126 )     504       183       22,028  
                                                                                                         
2008
                                                                                                       
Banking
    1,794       83       (83 )     1,794       749       (53 )     (44 )     (44 )     457       (114 )     343       114       19,168  
Insurance
    454       15       (15 )     454       116       -       (4 )     (11 )     (6 )     6       -       14       1,231  
Pension funds
    71       1       (1 )     71       -       -       (9 )     -       20       (5 )     15       3       224  
Brokerage and other
    50       62       (62 )     50       8       4       -       (5 )     25       (14 )     11       3       198  
                                                                                                         
Total consolidated
    2,369       161       (161 )     2,369       873       (49 )     (57 )     (60 )     496       (127 )     369       134       20,821  
                                                                                                         
2007
                                                                                                       
Banking
    1,407       65       (65 )     1,407       578       (33 )     (39 )     (5 )     391       (53 )     338       76       16,245  
Insurance
    377       13       (13 )     377       110       -       (4 )     -       18       -       18       4       1,138  
Pension funds
    55       (4 )     4       55       (1 )     -       (8 )     -       7       (1 )     6       5       244  
Brokerage and other
    47       7       (7 )     47       6       5       -       -       24       (14 )     10       3       79  
                                                                                                         
Total consolidated
    1,886       81       (81 )     1,886       693       (28 )     (51 )     (5 )     440       (68 )     372       88       17,706  
 
 
F-90

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(ii)
The following tables show the distribution of the Group’s external income, operating income, and non-current assets all allocated based on the location of the customers and assets respectively for the years ended 31 December 2009, 2008, and 2007:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Total 
external
income (*)
   
Operating
income (**)
   
Non-current
  assets (***)  
   
Total 
income (*)
   
Operating
income (**)
   
Non-current
  assets (***)  
   
Total 
income (*)
   
Operating
income (**)
   
Non-current
  assets (***)  
 
                                                       
Peru
    2,226       958       651       2,020       803       547       1,573       625       475  
Panama
    46       13       -       204       19       -       107       10       -  
Cayman Islands
    66       1       10       21       (4 )     10       100       19       11  
Bolivia
    107       50       17       112       52       17       78       38       16  
United States of America
    10       7       2       12       3       2       28       1       -  
Chile
    3       2       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                         
Total consolidated
    2,458       1,031       680       2,369       873       576       1,886       693       502  

 
(*)
Includes total interest and dividend income, other income and net premiums earned from insurance activities.
 
(**)
Operating income includes the net interest income from banking activities and the amount of the net premiums earned, less insurance claims.
 
(***)
Non-current assets consist of property, furniture and equipment, intangible assets, and goodwill, net.
 
 
F-91

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

27.
Transactions with related parties
 
(a)
The Group’s consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 include transactions with related companies, the Board of Directors, the Group’s key executives (defined as the Management of Credicorp’s ) and enterprises which are controlled by these individuals through their majority shareholding or their role as chairman or CEO.

 
(b)
The following table shows the main transactions with related parties as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Direct loans
    214,182       143,855  
Investments available-for-sale and trading securities
    92,749       63,782  
Deposits
    82,051       34,669  
Contingent credits
    20,122       23,574  
Derivatives at fair value
    (283 )     4,179  
Interest income related to loans – income
    4,896       2,889  
Interest expense related to deposits - expense
    1,680       2,669  
Other income
    1,196       2,533  

 
(c)
All transactions with related parties are made in accordance with normal market conditions available to other customers.  As of December 31, 2009, direct loans to related companies are secured by collaterals, and had maturities between January 2010 and November 2018 and accrued an annual average interest rate of 5.50 percent (as of December 31, 2008 had maturities between February 2009 and July 2017 and accrued an annual average interest rate of 7.98 percent).  Likewise, as of December 31, 2009, the Group does not maintain an allowance for loan losses to related parties (allowance for US$1.2 million as of December 31, 2008).

 
(d)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, directors, officers and employees of the Group have been involved, directly and indirectly, in credit transactions with certain subsidiaries of the Group, as permitted by Peruvian Banking and Insurance Law Nº26702, which regulates and limits certain transactions with employees, directors and officers of a bank or an insurance company.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, direct loans to employees, directors and key Management amounts to US$133.3 and US$116.3 million, respectively and are paid monthly and earn interest at market rates.

There are no loans to the Group’s directors and key personnel guaranteed with Credicorp or any of its Subsidiaries’ shares.

 
F-92

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(e)
The Group’s key executives’ compensation (including the related income taxes assumed by the Group) as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, comprised the following:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Salaries
    4,720       5,625       5,535  
Share-based compensation plans, note 18
    4,717       27,362       27,113  
Directors’ compensations
    1,698       1,303       1,162  
Other
    1,415       8,209       12,947  
                         
Total
    12,550       42,499       46,757  

 
(f)
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group has participations in different mutual funds and hedge funds managed by certain Group’s Subsidiaries, which are classified as trading securities or Investments available-for-sale for a total amount of US$62.4 million and US$94.7 million, respectively.

 
F-93

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
   
28.
Financial instruments classification
The following are the carrying amounts of the financial assets and liabilities captions in the consolidated statements of financial position, by categories as defined under IAS 39:
 
   
As of December 31, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Financial assets/liabilities designated
at fair value
                           
Financial assets/liabilities designated
at fair value
                         
   
Held for trading
or hedging
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
     Investments     
available-for-sale
   
Liabilities at
amortized cost
   
Total
   
Held for trading
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
     Investments     
available-for-sale
   
Liabilities at amortized
cost
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
Assets
                                                                       
Cash and due from banks
    -       -       3,836,658       -       -       3,836,658       -       -       3,766,171       -       -       3,766,171  
Trading securities
    70,774       -       -       -       -       70,774       36,084       -       -       -       -       36,084  
Investments available-for-sale
    -       -       -       5,079,606       -       5,079,606       -       -       -       4,950,754       -       4,950,754  
Loans, net
    -       -       11,231,280       -       -       11,231,280       -       -       10,322,041       -       -       10,322,041  
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
    -       135,670       -       -       -       135,670       -       137,945       -       -       -       137,945  
Premiums and other policies receivable
    -       -       121,338       -       -       121,338       -       -       111,561       -       -       111,561  
Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       137,098       -       -       137,098       -       -       165,144       -       -       165,144  
Due from customers on acceptances
                    96,423       -       -       96,423       -       -       232,580       -       -       232,580  
Other assets, note 11
    97,341       -       322,881       -               420,222       79,275       -       247,465       -       -       326,740  
                                                                                                 
      168,115       135,670       15,745,678       5,079,606       -       21,129,069       115,359       137,945       14,844,962       4,950,754       -       20,049,020  
                                                                                                 
Liabilities
                                                                                               
Deposits and obligation
    -       -       -       -       14,091,828       14,091,828       -       -       -       -       13,950,437       13,950,437  
Due to banks and correspondents
    -       -       -       -       1,167,438       1,167,438       -       -       -       -       1,179,991       1,179,991  
Due from customers on acceptances
    -       -       -       -       96,423       96,423       -       -       -       -       232,580       232,580  
Accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       -       -       48,009       48,009       -       -       -       -       55,841       55,841  
Borrowed funds
    -       -       -       -       1,089,221       1,089,221       -       -       -       -       1,150,716       1,150,716  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    -       -       -       -       1,287,022       1,287,022       -       -       -       -       785,230       785,230  
Other liabilities, note 11
    167,849       -       -       -       428,740       596,589       256,792       -       -       -       318,320       575,112  
                                                                                                 
      167,849       -       -       -       18,208,681       18,376,530       256,792       -       -       -       17,673,115       17,929,907  
 
 
F-94

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
29.
Financial risk management
By their nature, the Group’s activities involve principally the use of financial instruments, including derivatives.  The Group accepts deposits from customers at both fixed and floating rates, for various periods, and seeks to earn above-average interest margins by investing these funds in high-quality assets.  The Group seeks to increase these margins by consolidating short-term funds and lending for longer periods at higher rates, while maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet all claims that might fall due.

The Group also seeks to raise its interest margins by obtaining above-average market margins, net of allowances, through lending to commercial and retail borrowers with a range of credit products.  Such exposures involve not just on-balance sheet loans and advances; the Group also enters into guarantees and other commitments such as letters of credit and performance.

The Group also trades in financial instruments where it takes positions in traded and over-the-counter instruments, including derivatives, to take advantage of short-term market movements in equities, bonds, currency and interest rates.

In this sense, risk is inherent in the Group’s activities but it is managed through a process of ongoing identification, measurement and monitoring, subject to risk limits and other controls.  This process of risk management is critical to the Group’s continuing profitability and each individual within the Group is accountable for the risk exposures relating to his or her responsibilities.  The Group is exposed to operating risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk, the latter being subdivided into trading and non-trading risks.

The independent risk control process does not include business risks such as changes in the environment, technology and industry.  They are monitored through the Group’s strategic planning process.

(a)
Risk management structure-
The Group’s Board of Directors and of each subsidiary is ultimately responsible for identifying and controlling risks; however, there are separate independent bodies in the major subsidiaries (BCP, PPS and ASHC) responsible for managing and monitoring risks, as further explained bellow:

(i)
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of each major subsidiary is responsible for the overall risk management approach and responsible for the approval of the policies and strategies currently in place.  The Board provides written principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, use of derivative financial instruments and non-derivative financial instruments.
 
 
F-95

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(ii)
Risk Management Committee
The Risk Management Committee of each major subsidiary is responsible for the strategy used for mitigating risks as well as setting forth the overall principles, policies and limits for the different types of risks; it is also responsible for monitoring fundamental risk issues and manages and monitors the relevant risk decisions.

 
(iii)
Risk Management Department
The Risk Management Department of each major subsidiary is responsible for developing, implementing and improving, on a continuous basis, the Group’s risk management infrastructure by adopting and incorporating global best practices and following established policies.

 
(iv)
Internal Audit
Risk management processes throughout the Group are monitored by the internal audit function, which examines both the adequacy of the procedures and the compliance of them.  Internal Audit discusses the results of all assessments with Management, and reports its findings and recommendations to Credicorp’s Audit Committee and Board of Directors.

 
(v)
Treasury and Foreign Exchange Departments
Treasury Department is responsible for managing the Group’s assets and liabilities and the overall financial structure.  It is also primarily responsible for the Group’s management of funding and liquidity risks; as well as the investment, forward and spot portfolios, assuming the related liquidity, interest rate and exchange rate risks, under the policies and limits currently effective.

(b)
Risk measurement and reporting systems-
The Group's risks are measured using a method which reflects both the expected loss likely to arise in normal circumstances and unexpected losses, which are an estimate of the ultimate actual loss based on statistical models.  The models make use of probabilities derived from historical experience, adjusted to reflect the economic environment.  The Group also runs worse case scenarios that would arise in the event that extreme events which are unlikely to occur do, in fact, occur.

Monitoring and controlling risks are primarily performed based on limits established by the Group.  These limits reflect the business strategy and market environment of the Group as well as the level of risk that the Group is willing to accept.  In addition, the Group monitors and measures the overall risk bearing capacity in relation to the aggregate risk exposure across all risk types and activities.
 
 
F-96

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Information compiled from all the Group’s subsidiaries is examined and processed in order to analyze, control and identify early risks.  This information is presented and explained to the Board of Directors, the Risk Management Committee, and all relevant members of the Group.  The report includes aggregate credit exposure, credit metric forecasts, hold limit exceptions, VaR (Value at Risk), liquidity ratios and risk profile changes.  Senior management assesses the fair value of the investments and the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses periodically.

(c)
Risk mitigation-
As part of its overall risk management, the Group uses derivatives and other instruments to manage exposures resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign currencies, equity risk and credit risk.

The risk profile is assessed before entering into hedge transactions, which are authorized by the appropriate level of seniority within the Group.  The effectiveness of hedges is assessed by the Risk Management Department (based on economic considerations rather than the IFRS hedge accounting regulations).  The effectiveness of all the hedge relationships is monitored by the unit monthly.  In situations of ineffectiveness, the Group will enter into a new hedge relationship to mitigate risk on a continuous basis.

The Group actively uses collateral to reduce its credit risks.

(d)
Excessive risk concentration-
Concentrations arise when a number of counterparties are engaged in similar business activities, or activities in the same geographic region, or have similar economic, political or other conditions.  Concentrations indicate the relative sensitivity of the Group’s performance to developments affecting a particular industry or geographical location.

In order to avoid excessive concentrations of risk, the Group’s policies and procedures include specific guidelines to focus on maintaining a diversified portfolio.  Identified concentrations of credit risks are controlled and managed accordingly.

29.1
Credit risk -
 
(a)
The Group takes on exposure to credit risk, which is the risk that a counterparty will cause a financial loss by failing to discharge an obligation.  Credit risk is the most important risk for the Group’s business; Management therefore carefully manages its exposure to credit risk.  Credit exposures arise principally in lending activities that lead to loans, and investment activities that bring debt securities and other bills into the Group’s asset portfolio.  There is also credit risk in off-balance sheet financial instruments, such as contingent credits, which expose the Group to similar risks to loans and these are mitigated by the same control processes and policies.  Likewise, credit risk arising from derivative financial instruments is, at any time, limited to those with positive fair values, as recorded in the consolidated statements of financial position.

 
F-97

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Impairment provisions are provided for losses that have been incurred at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.  Significant changes in the economy or in the particular situation of an industry segment that represents a concentration in the Group’s portfolio could result in losses that are different from those provided for at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.

The Group structures the levels of credit risk it undertakes by placing limits on the amount of risk accepted in relation to one borrower or groups of borrowers, and to geographical and industry segments.  Such risks are monitored on a revolving basis and subject to a frequent review.  Limits in the level of credit risk by product, industry sector and by geographic segment are approved by the Board of Directors.

Exposure to credit risk is managed through regular analysis of the ability of borrowers and potential borrowers to meet interest and principal repayment obligations and by changing these lending limits where appropriate.  Some other specific control and mitigation measures are outlined below:

 
(i)
Collateral
The Group employs a range of policies and practices to mitigate credit risk.  The most traditional of these is the taking of security for funds advances, which is common practice.  The Group implements guidelines on the acceptability of specific classes of collateral or credit risk mitigation.  The principal collateral types for loans and advances are mortgages over residential properties; liens over business assets such as premises, inventory and accounts receivable; liens over financial instruments such as debt securities and equities.

Longer-term finance and lending to corporate entities are generally secured; revolving individual credit facilities are generally unsecured.  In addition, in order to minimize credit loss the Group will seek additional collateral from the counterparty as soon as impairment indicators arise.

Collateral held as security for financial assets other than loans is determined by the nature of the instrument.  Debt securities, treasury and other eligible bills are generally unsecured, with the exception of asset-backed securities and similar instruments, which are secured by portfolios of financial instruments.

Management monitors the market value of collateral, requests additional collateral in accordance with the underlying agreement, and monitors the market value of collateral obtained during its review of the adequacy of the allowance for impairment losses.  It is the Group’s policy to dispose of repossessed properties in an orderly manner.  The proceeds are used to reduce or repay the outstanding claim.  In general, the Group does not use repossessed properties for its business own.
 
 
F-98

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
 
(ii)
Derivatives
The Group maintains strict control limits on net open derivative positions (i.e., the difference between purchase and sale contracts), by both amount and term.  The amount subject to credit risk is limited to the current fair value of instruments that are favorable to the Group (i.e., an asset when fair value is positive), which in relation to derivatives is only a small fraction of the contract, or notional values used to express the volume of instruments outstanding.  This credit risk exposure is managed as part of the overall lending limits with customers, together with potential exposures from market movements.  Collateral or other security is not usually obtained for credit risk exposures on these instruments.

Settlement risk arises in any situation where a payment in cash, securities or equities is made in the expectation of a corresponding receipt in cash, securities or equities.  Daily settlement limits are established for each counterparty in order to cover the aggregate of all settlement risk arising from the Group’s market transactions on any single day.

 
(iii)
Credit-related commitments
The primary purpose of these instruments is to ensure that funds are available to a customer as required.  Guarantees and standby letters of credit have the same credit risk as loans.  Documentary and commercial letters of credit - which are written undertakings by the Group on behalf of a customer authorizing a third party to draw drafts on the Group up to a stipulated amount under specific terms and conditions - are collateralized by the underlying shipments of goods to which they relate and therefore have less risk than a direct loan.  The Group has no mandatory commitments to extend credit.

In order to manage credit risk, as part of the Risk Management Department of the Group, see note 29(a), there is a Risk Management Service Unit whose major functions are implementing methodologies and statistical models for measuring credit risk exposures, developing and applying methodologies for the calculation of risk-ratings, both at the corporate and business unit levels, performing analysis of credit concentrations, verifying that credit exposures are within the established limits and suggesting global risk exposures by economic sector, time term, among others.

Also, a Risk Assessment Committee has been established comprising 3 directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and the Risk Management Department Manager.  Each of the financial indicators prepared by the Risk Management Service Unit are analyzed by this committee on a quarterly basis to subsequently evaluate the policies, procedures and limits currently effective at the Group to ensure that an efficient and effective risk management is always in place.
 
 
F-99

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

At the same time, the Group has a Credit Division, which establishes the overall credit policies for each and all the businesses in which the Group decides to take part.  These policies are set forth based on the guidelines established by the Board of Directors and keeping in mind the statutory financial laws and regulations.  The main activities of this function are to establish the client credit standards and guidelines (evaluation, authorization and control),  to follow the guidelines established by the Board of Directors and General Management as well as those established by governmental regulatory bodies, to review and authorize credit applications, up to the limit within the scope of its responsibilities and  to submit to upper hierarchies those credit applications exceeding the established limits, to  monitor credit-granting activities within the different autonomous bodies, among others.

 
(b)
The maximum exposure to credit risk as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, before the effect of mitigation through any collateral, is the book value of each class of financial assets indicated in note 29.7 and the contingent credits detailed in note 19(a).

Management is confident in its ability to continue to control and sustain minimal exposure of credit risk to the Group resulting from both its loan portfolio and investments based on the following:

 
-
97 percent of the gross loan portfolio is categorized in the top two grades of the internal rating system as of December 31, 2009 (98 percent as of December 31, 2008);

 
-
94 percent of the loan portfolio is considered to be neither past due nor impaired as of December 31, 2009 (95 percent as of December 31, 2008);

 
-
77 percent of the investments have at least investment credit rating (BBB- or higher) or are debt securities issued by BCRP (not rated) as of December 31, 2009 (83 percent as of December 31, 2008); and

 
-
18 percent and 55 percent of the cash and due from banks represent amounts deposited in the Group’s vaults or in the BCRP (including overnight operations), respectively, as of December 31, 2009 (17 percent and 52 percent, respectively, as of December 31, 2008).

 
(c)
Credit risk management for loans -
Credicorp classifies its loan portfolio into one of five risk categories, depending upon the degree of risk of non-payment of each debtor.  The grades used by Credicorp are: (i) normal, (ii) potential problems, (iii) substandard, (iv) doubtful and (v) loss, and have the following characteristics:

 
F-100

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Normal (Class A): Debtors of commercial loans that fall into this category have complied on a timely basis with their obligations and at the time of evaluation do not present any reason for doubt with respect to repayment of interest and principal on the agreed dates, and there is no reason to believe that the status will change before the next evaluation.  To place a loan in Class A, a clear understanding of the use to be made of the funds and the origin of the cash flows to be used by the debtor to repay the loan is required.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class A if payments are current or up to eight days past-due.  Residential mortgage loans warrant Class A classification if payments are current or up to thirty days past-due.

Potential problems (Class B): Debtors of commercial loans included in this category are those that at the time of the evaluation demonstrate certain deficiencies, which, if not corrected on a timely manner, imply risks with respect to the recovery of the loan.  Certain common characteristics of loans or credits in the category include: delays in loan payments which are promptly covered, a general lack of information required to analyze the credit, out-of-date financial information, temporary economic or financial imbalances on the part of the debtor which could affect its ability to repay the loan, and market conditions that could affect the economic sector in which the debtor is active.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class B if payments are between 9 and 30 days late.  Residential mortgage loans become Class B when payments are between 31 and 90 days late.

Substandard (Class C): Debtors of commercial loans included in this category demonstrate serious financial weakness, often with operating results or available income insufficient to cover financial obligations on agreed upon terms, with no reasonable short-term prospects for a strengthening of their financial capacity.  Debtors demonstrating the same deficiencies that warrant classification as category B warrant classification as Class C if those deficiencies are such that if they are not corrected in the near term, they could impede the recovery of principal and interest on the loan on the originally agreed terms.  In addition, commercial loans are classified in this category when payments are between 61 and 120 days late.  Consumer loan are categorized as Class C if payments are between 31 and 60 days late.  Residential mortgage loans are classified as Class C when payments are between 91 and 120 days late.

 
F-101

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Doubtful (Class D): Debtors of commercial loans included in this category present characteristics that make doubtful the recovery of the loan.  Although the loan recovery is doubtful, if there is a reasonable possibility that in the near future the creditworthiness of the debtor might improve, a Class D categorization is appropriate.  These credits are distinguished from Class E credits by the requirement that the debtor remain in operation, generate cash flow, and make payments on the loan, although at a rate less than that specified in its contractual obligations.  In addition, commercial loans are classified in this category when payments are between 121 and 365 days late.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class D if payments are between 61 and 120 days late.  Residential mortgage loans are Class D when payments are between 121 and 365 days late.

Loss credits (Class E): Commercial loans or credits which are considered unrecoverable or which for any other reason should not appear on Group’s books as an asset based on the originally contracted terms fall into this category.  In addition, commercial loans are classified in this category when payments are more than 365 days late.  Consumer loans are categorized as Class E if payments are more than 120 days late.  Residential mortgage loans are Class E when payments are more than 365 days late.

The Group reviews its loan portfolio on a continuing basis in order to assess the completion and accuracy of its grades.

All loans considered impaired (the ones classified as substandard, doubtful and loss) are analyzed by the Group’s Management, which addresses impairment in two areas: individually assessed allowances and collectively assessed allowances, as follows:

Individually assessed allowance -
The Group determines the allowances appropriate for each individually significant loan or advance on an individual basis.  Items considered when determining allowance amounts include the sustainability of the counterparty’s business plan, its ability to improve performance once a financial difficulty has arisen, projected receipts and the expected dividend payout should bankruptcy ensue, the availability of other financial support including the realizable value of collateral, and the timing of the expected cash flows.  Impairment losses are evaluated at each reporting date, unless unforeseen circumstances require more careful attention.

 
F-102

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The methodology and assumptions used for estimating future cash flows are reviewed regularly by the Group in order to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience.

Collectively assessed allowance -
Allowances are assessed collectively for losses on loans and advances that are not individually significant (including consumer and residential mortgages) and for individually significant loans and advances where there is not yet objective evidence of individual impairment (included in categories A and B).  Allowances are evaluated on each reporting date with each portfolio receiving a separate review.

The collective assessment takes account of impairment that is likely to be present in the portfolio even though there is not yet objective evidence of the impairment in an individual assessment.  Impairment losses are estimated by taking into consideration of the following information: historical losses on the portfolio, current economic conditions, the approximate delay between the time a loss is likely to have been incurred and the time it will be identified as requiring an individually assessed impairment allowance, and expected receipts and recoveries once impaired.  Local management is responsible for deciding the length of this period which can extend for as long as one year.  The impairment allowance is then reviewed by credit Management to ensure alignment with the Group’s overall policy.

Financial guarantees and letter of credit are assessed and a provision estimated following a similar procedure as for loans.

In the case of borrowers in countries where there is an increased risk of difficulties in servicing external debt, an assessment of the political and economic situation is made, and an additional country risk provision is recorded.

When a loan is uncollectible, it is written off against the related provision for loan impairment.  Such loans are written off after all the necessary procedures have been completed and the amount of the loss has been determined.  Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off decrease the amount of the provision for loan impairment in the consolidated income statements.

 
F-103

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The following is a summary of the direct loans classified in three major groups: i) Loans neither past due nor impaired, comprising those direct loans having presently no delinquency characteristics and related to clients ranked as normal or potential problems; ii) Past due but not impaired loans comprising past due loans of clients classified as normal or with potential problems and iii) Impaired loans, or those past due loans of clients classified as substandard, doubtful or loss; presented net of the provision for loan losses for each of the loan grades:

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Commercial
loans
   
Residential
mortgage
loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
   
%
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
       
Neither past due nor impaired -
                             
Normal
    7,853,574       1,585,761       1,254,928       10,694,263       94  
Potential problem
    321,864       26,962       11,437       360,263       3  
                                         
Past due but not impaired -
                                       
Normal
    154,075       74,621       76,312       305,008       3  
Potential problem
    36,525       17,690       18,091       72,306       -  
                                         
Impaired -
                                       
Substandard
    65,122       15,809       34,741       115,672       1  
Doubtful
    78,475       19,050       41,864       139,389       1  
Loss
    57,024       13,843       30,420       101,287       1  
Gross
    8,566,659       1,753,736       1,467,793       11,788,188       103  
Less: Allowance for loan losses
    222,104       41,470       90,781       354,355       3  
                                         
Total, net
    8,344,555       1,712,266       1,377,012       11,433,833       100  
 
 
F-104

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Commercial
loans
   
Residential
mortgage
loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
   
%
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
       
                               
Neither past due nor impaired -
                             
Normal
    7,526,355       1,350,793       1,020,352       9,897,500       94  
Potential problem
    214,040       18,348       8,932       241,320       2  
                                         
Past due but not impaired -
                                       
Normal
    186,887       83,757       78,629       349,273       3  
Potential problem
    14,231       387       1,027       15,645       -  
                                         
Impaired -
                                       
Substandard
    41,570       11,337       18,982       71,889       1  
Doubtful
    46,309       12,630       21,146       80,085       1  
Loss
    29,193       7,962       13,331       50,486       1  
Gross
    8,058,585       1,485,214       1,162,399       10,706,198       102  
Less: Allowance for loan losses
    137,444       30,832       56,061       224,337       2  
Total, net
    7,921,141       1,454,382       1,106,338       10,481,861       100  

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, loans that are neither past-due nor impaired whose terms have been renegotiated amounts to US$6.5 and US$10.3 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, loans amounting to approximately US$354.7 and US$349.3 million, respectively, were past due for less than 30 days and were not impaired.

 
F-105

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The breakdown of the gross amount of impaired loans by class, along with the fair value of related collateral and the amounts of their allowance for loan losses, is as follows:

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Commercial
loans
   
Residential
mortgage
loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Impaired loans
    200,621       48,702       107,025       356,348  
Fair value of collateral
    97,265       34,378       12,113       143,756  
                                 
Allowance for loan losses
    86,749       11,551       64,361       162,661  

   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Commercial
loans
   
Residential
mortgage
loans
   
Consumer
loans
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Impaired loans
    117,072       31,929       53,459       202,460  
                                 
Fair value of collateral
    49,254       18,742       4,386       72,382  
                                 
Allowance for loan losses
    50,782       11,395       29,722       91,899  

 
(d)
Credit risk management on investments in trading securities and available-for-sale -
The Group evaluates the credit risk identified of each of the financial instruments in these categories, considering the risk rating granted to them by a risk rating agency.  For investments traded in Peru, the risk ratings use are those provided by Apoyo & Asociados Internacionales S.A.C. (a Peruvian rating agency authorized by the Peruvian government regulator and associated to Fitch Rating) and for investments traded abroad, the risk-ratings used are those provided by Standard & Poor’s.  In the event any subsidiary use a risk-rating prepared by any other risk rating agency, such risk-ratings are standardized with those provided by the afore-mentioned institutions for consolidation purposes.
 
 
F-106

 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)
 
The following table shows the analysis of the risk-rating of available-for-sale investments, provided by the institutions referred to above:

   
As of December 31, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
%
   
US$(000)
   
%
 
                         
Instruments rated in Peru and abroad
                       
AAA
    341,344       7       530,132       11  
AA- to AA+
    283,103       6       165,050       3  
A- to A+
    470,347       9       428,319       9  
BBB- to BBB+
    1,284,826       25       785,250       16  
BB- to BB+
    324,118       6       326,398       7  
Lower than B-
    243,199       5       20,394       -  
Unrated (*)
    2,132,669       42       2,695,211       54  
Total
    5,079,606       100.0       4,950,754       100.0  

 
(*)
As of December 31, 2009, includes principally US$1,545.7 million of Peruvian Central Bank Certificates of Deposit, which represent 30.43 percent of the investments available-for-sale balance (US$2,209 million, which represent 44.62 percent as of December 31, 2008).  It also includes US$330.7 and US$102.1 million of listed and non-listed equity securities and mutual funds, respectively (US$212.7 and US$96.9 million as of December 31, 2008, respectively).

 
F-107

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(e)
Concentration of financial instruments exposed to credit risk:
As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, financial instruments with exposure to credit risk were distributed considering the following economic sectors:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Designated at fair value through 
profit or loss
                     
Designated at fair value through 
profit or loss
                   
   
Held for trading and
hedging
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
Investments
available-for-sale
   
Total
   
Held for trading and
hedging
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
Investments
available-for-sale
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                             
Central Reserve Bank of Perú
    -       -       2,107,635       1,545,705       3,653,340       -       -       1,952,952       2,208,942       4,161,894  
Financial services
    114,185       125,912       2,058,327       1,243,021       3,541,445       101,126       134,385       1,944,796       1,031,463       3,211,770  
Government and public administration
    53,874       642       233,446       1,034,479       1,322,441       13,466       595       273,506       931,632       1,219,199  
Manufacturing
    4       2,161       2,462,733       266,048       2,730,946       44       507       2,536,277       156,418       2,693,246  
Commerce
    1       -       1,282,188       68,740       1,350,929       5       -       1,484,431       64,595       1,549,031  
Mortgage loans
    -       -       1,673,089       -       1,673,089       -       -       1,401,296       -       1,401,296  
Consumer loans
    -       -       1,402,422       -       1,402,422       -       -       1,126,301       -       1,126,301  
Electricity, gas and water
    47       2,564       745,613       376,496       1,124,720       523       879       556,937       202,716       761,055  
Communications, storage and transportation
    2       -       554,944       154,305       709,251       -       -       632,895       117,103       749,998  
Mining
    2       3,781       667,970       109,351       781,104       130       1,058       660,855       77,358       739,401  
Leaseholds and real estate activities
    -       -       468,229       49,401       517,630       -       -       608,651       47,321       655,972  
Micro-business loans
    -       -       703,651       -       703,651       -       -       619,680       -       619,680  
Community services
    -       -       322,429       -       322,429       -       -       247,144       -       247,144  
Construction
    -       307       186,397       5,250       191,954       -       57       236,163       2,226       238,446  
Agriculture
    -       -       269,882       8,002       277,884       -       68       224,417       7,693       232,178  
Education, health and other services
                    151,569       119,006       270,575       -       -       127,670       29,699       157,369  
Fishing
    -       -       119,123       291       119,414       2       -       80,277       159       80,438  
Insurance
    -       -       167,101       -       167,101       -       -       27,430       -       27,430  
Other
    -       303       168,930       99,511       268,744       63       396       103,284       73,429       177,172  
                                                                                 
Total
    168,115       135,670       15,745,678       5,079,606       21,129,069       115,359       137,945       14,844,962       4,950,754       20,049,020  

 
F-108

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the financial instruments with exposure to credit risk were distributed by the following geographical areas:

   
2009
 
   
Designated at fair value through
profit or loss
                   
   
Held for
trading and
hedging
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
Investments
available-for-sale
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                               
Peru
    133,292       11,231       13,749,305       3,156,355       17,050,183  
United States of America
    23,596       123,570       806,511       943,922       1,897,599  
Bolivia
    21       -       727,883       216,016       943,920  
Europe
    4,276       -       154,131       122,527       280,934  
Colombia
    -       -       25,502       191,036       216,538  
Chile
    104       -       45,457       165,856       211,417  
Other
    6,826       869       236,889       283,894       528,478  
                                         
Total
    168,115       135,670       15,745,678       5,079,606       21,129,069  
 
   
2008
 
   
Designated at fair value through
profit or loss
                   
   
Held for trading
and hedging
   
At inception
   
Loans and
receivables
   
Investments
available-for-sale
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                               
Peru
    113,015       4,497       12,565,873       3,566,716       16,250,101  
United States of America
    109       132,722       871,859       678,093       1,682,783  
Bolivia
    2,224       -       566,170       309,530       877,924  
Europe
    -       -       307,533       84,445       391,978  
Chile
    -       -       115,883       90,587       206,470  
Colombia
    -       -       101,173       72,178       173,351  
Other
    11       726       316,471       149,205       466,413  
                                         
Total
    115,359       137,945       14,844,962       4,950,754       20,049,020  
 
 
F-109

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

29.2
Market risk -
The Group takes on exposure to market risks, which is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices.  Market risks arise from open positions in interest rates, currency, commodities and equity products; all of which are exposed to general and specific market movements and changes in the level of volatility of prices such as interest rates, credit spreads, foreign exchange rates and equity prices.  Due to the nature of the Group’s current activities, commodity price risk is not applicable.

The Group separates exposures to market risk into two groups: (i) those that arise from value fluctuation of trading portfolios due to movements of market rates or prices (Trading Book) and (ii) those that arise from changes in the structural positions of non-trading portfolios due to movements of the interest rates, prices and foreign exchange ratios (ALM Book).

Trading portfolios include those liquid positions arising from market-making transactions where the Group acts as principal with clients or with the market.  Non-trading portfolios consist of relatively illiquid positions, mainly banking assets and liabilities (deposits and loans) and non-trading investments (available-for-sale).

The risks that trading portfolios face are managed through VaR historical simulation techniques; while non-trading portfolios are managed using Asset Liability Management (ALM).

 
(a)
Trading Book -
The trading book is made up of liquid investment instruments.  The trading book is characterized for having liquid positions in equities, bonds, foreign currencies and derivatives.  Some limits have been set in order to control and monitor the risks undertaken.  These risks arise from the size of the positions and/or from the volatility of the risk factors embedded in each financial instrument.  Regular reports are prepared for the Risk Management Committees and top management.  The major measurement technique used to measure and control market risk is Value at Risk (VaR).

The Group applies VaR to its trading portfolios to estimate the market risk of positions held and the maximum losses that are expected, based upon a number of assumptions for various changes in market conditions.  The Risk Management Committee set limits on the level of risk that may be accepted and review of daily.

VaR is a statistically-based estimate of the potential loss on the current portfolio from adverse market movements.  It expresses the “maximum” amount the Group might lose, but only to a certain level of confidence (99 percent).  There is therefore a specified statistical probability (1 percent) that actual loss could be greater than the VaR estimate.  The VaR model assumes a certain “holding period” until positions can be closed (1 day - 10 days).  The time horizon used to calculate VaR is one day; however, the one-day VAR is amplified to a 10-day time frame and calculated multiplying the one-day VaR times the square root of 10 - results are presented in the tables below.  The assessment of past movements has been based on historical one-year data.  The Group applies these historical changes in rates directly to its current positions (a method known as historical simulation).

 
F-110

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The use of this approach does not prevent losses outside of these limits in the event of more significant market movements.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group’s VaR by type of asset was as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Equity securities
    2       55  
Mutual funds
    -       1,034  
Fixed income
    1,142       1,116  
Derivatives
    2,541       -  
Consolidated VaR by type of asset
    2,269       1,604  

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group’s VaR by risk type is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
             
Foreign exchange risk
    985       579  
Interest rate risk
    1,802       1,063  
Equity risk
    1       850  
Consolidated VaR by risk type
    2,269       1,604  

 
(b)
ALM Book -
The management of the risks associated with long-term and structural positions is called Asset and Liability Management (ALM).  Non-trading portfolios which comprise the ALM Book are exposed to different sensitivities that can bring about a deterioration in the value of the assets compared to its liabilities and hence to a reduction of its net worth.

 
F-111

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(i)
Interest risk -
Interest rate risk arises from the possibility that changes in interest rates will affect future cash flows or the fair values of financial instruments.  Cash flow interest rate risk is the risk that the future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.  Fair value interest rate risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.  The Group takes on exposure to the effects of fluctuations in the prevailing levels of market interest rates on both its fair value and cash flow risks.  Interest margins may increase as a result of such changes but may also decrease in the event that unexpected movements arise.  The Board sets limits on the level of mismatch of interest rate re-pricing that may be undertaken, which is monitored daily by Treasury Department.

Re-pricing gap -
Gap analysis comprises aggregating re-pricing timeframes into buckets and checking if each bucket nets to zero.  Different bucketing schemes might be used.  An interest rate gap is simply a positive or negative net re-pricing timeframe for one of the buckets.

 
F-112

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The table below summarizes the Group’s exposure to interest rate risks.  It includes the Group’s financial instruments at carrying amounts, categorized by the earlier of contractual re-pricing or maturity dates:

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Up to 1 month
   
1 to 3 months
   
3 to 12 months
   
1 to 5 years
   
More than 5
years
   
Non-interest
bearing
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                           
Assets
                                         
Cash and due from banks
    2,745,587       70,616       81,969       -       -       938,486       3,836,658  
Investments
    494,937       1,009,295       1,009,704       1,254,765       928,562       453,117       5,150,380  
Loans
    1,739,632       3,144,271       2,142,219       3,176,243       1,028,915       -       11,231,280  
Assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
    -       258       310       1,657       3,565       129,880       135,670  
Premiums and other policies receivables
    -       -       -       -       -       121,338       121,338  
Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       -       -       -       137,098       137,098  
Other assets
    -       -       -       -       -       1,415,683       1,415,683  
Total assets
    4,980,156       4,224,440       3,234,202       4,432,665       1,961,042       3,195,602       22,028,107  
                                                         
Liabilities
                                                       
Deposits and obligations
    4,025,133       3,716,882       2,711,965       311,252       28,601       3,297,995       14,091,828  
Due to banks and correspondents
    310,694       633,874       10,208       128,643       57,835       26,184       1,167,438  
Accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       -       -       -       48,009       48,009  
Technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    39,932       24,949       112,373       164,216       367,552       309,769       1,018,791  
Borrowed funds
    953,461       2,815       13,385       93,177       26,383       -       1,089,221  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    5,880       18,768       71,627       448,803       728,653       13,291       1,287,022  
Other liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       822,446       822,446  
Equity
    -       -       -       -       -       2,503,352       2,503,352  
Total liabilities and equity
    5,335,100       4,397,288       2,919,558       1,146,091       1,209,024       7,021,046       22,028,107  
                                                         
Off-Balance sheet items
                                                       
Derivatives assets
    2,094,179       1,574,953       976,153       1,152,853       67,810       -       5,865,948  
Derivatives liabilities
    957,368       1,238,661       1,221,097       2,042,343       406,479       -       5,865,948  
      1,136,811       336,292       (244,944 )     (889,490 )     (338,669 )     -       -  
Marginal gap
    781,867       163,444       69,700       2,397,084       413,349       (3,825,444 )     -  
                                                         
Accumulated gap
    781,867       945,311       1,015,011       3,412,095       3,825,444       -       -  
 
 
F-113

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Up to 1 month
   
1 to 3 months
   
3 to 12 months
   
1 to 5 years
   
More than 5
years
   
Non-interest
bearing
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                           
Assets
                                         
Cash and due from banks
    2,455,413       196,588       46,536       10,218       -       1,057,416       3,766,171  
Investments
    818,153       1,208,344       988,796       542,759       1,139,201       289,585       4,986,838  
Loans
    2,038,457       2,412,234       2,274,854       2,992,480       604,016       -       10,322,041  
Assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
    -       249       329       790       1,954       134,623       137,945  
Premiums and other policies receivables
    -       -       -       -       -       111,561       111,561  
Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       -       -       -       165,144       165,144  
Other assets
    -       -       -       -       -       1,331,369       1,331,369  
Total assets
    5,312,023       3,817,415       3,310,515       3,546,247       1,745,171       3,089,698       20,821,069  
                                                         
Liabilities
                                                       
Deposits and obligations
    4,114,430       3,268,610       2,991,905       321,984       39,979       3,213,529       13,950,437  
Due to banks and correspondents
    178,539       745,155       197,935       11,705       32,544       14,113       1,179,991  
Accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers
    -       -       -       -       -       55,841       55,841  
Technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    31,254       19,357       86,935       148,437       331,697       350,090       967,770  
Borrowed funds
    1,008,997       2,474       11,762       81,871       45,612       -       1,150,716  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    817       -       63,208       284,577       428,788       7,840       785,230  
Other liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       934,979       934,979  
Equity
    -       -       -       -       -       1,796,105       1,796,105  
Total liabilities and equity
    5,334,037       4,035,596       3,351,745       848,574       878,620       6,372,497       20,821,069  
                                                         
Off-Balance sheet items
                                                       
Derivatives assets
    2,499,906       1,295,838       590,446       469,276       293,100       -       5,148,566  
Derivatives liabilities
    1,618,002       788,307       834,589       1,471,042       436,626       -       5,148,566  
      881,904       507,531       (244,143 )     (1,001,766 )     (143,526 )     -       -  
Marginal gap
    859,890       289,350       (285,373 )     1,695,907       723,025       (3,282,799 )     -  
                                                         
Accumulated gap
    859,890       1,149,240       863,867       2,559,774       3,282,799       -       -  

 
F-114

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Sensitivity to changes in interest rates -
The following table presents the sensitivity to a reasonable possible change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, of the Group’s consolidated income statement and consolidated statements of comprehensive income; before income tax and minority interest.

The sensitivity of the consolidated income statement is the effect of the assumed changes in interest rates on the net interest income for one year before income tax and minority interest, based on the floating rate of non-trading financial assets and financial liabilities held at December 31, 2009 and 2008, including the effect of derivatives instruments.  The sensitivity of consolidated comprehensive income is calculated by revaluing fixed rate available-for-sale financial assets, before income tax and minority interest, including the effect of any associated hedges, and derivatives instruments designated as cash flow hedges, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 for the effects of the assumed changes in interest rates:

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
Currency
 
Changes in basis
points
   
Sensitivity of net
income
   
Sensitivity of
comprehensive
income
 
               
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       50       +/-       10,484       -/ +     43,174  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       75       +/-       15,727       -/ +     64,762  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       100       +/-       20,969       -/ +     86,349  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       150       +/-       31,453       -/ +     129,523  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       50       -/+       3,446       -/ +     24,856  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       75       -/+       5,169       -/ +     37,284  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       100       -/+       6,892       -/ +     49,711  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       150       -/+       10,339       -/ +     74,567  

   
As of December 31, 2008
 
Currency
 
Changes in basis
points
   
Sensitivity of net
income
   
Sensitivity of
comprehensive
income
 
               
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       50       +/-       6,842       -/ +     16,709  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       100       +/-       13,684       -/ +     33,417  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       200       +/-       27,368       -/ +     66,834  
U.S. Dollar
    +/-       300       +/-       41,052       -/ +     100,251  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       50       -/+       12,227       -/ +     16,791  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       100       -/+       24,454       -/ +     33,581  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       200       -/+       48,908       -/ +     67,162  
Peruvian Currency
    +/-       300       -/+       73,362       -/ +     100,743  

 
F-115

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The interest rate sensitivities set out in the table above are illustrative only and are based on simplified scenarios.  The figures represent the effect of the pro-forma movements in the net interest income based on the projected yield curve scenarios and the Group’s current interest rate risk profile.  This effect, however, does not incorporate actions that would be taken by Management to mitigate the impact of this interest rate risk.  In addition, the Group seeks proactively to change the interest rate risk profile to minimize losses and optimize net revenues.  The projections above also assume that interest rate of all maturities move by the same amount and, therefore, do not reflect the potential impact on net interest income of some rates changing while others remain unchanged.  The projections make other simplifying assumptions too, including that all positions run to maturity.

Available-for-sale investments securities and mutual funds are not considered as part of the investment securities for sensitivity calculation purposes; however, a 10, 25 and 30 percent for equity and mutual funds changes in market prices is conducted to these price-sensitivity securities and the expected unrealized gain or loss, before income tax, is presented below:

Market price sensitivity
 
Changes in
market prices
   
As of December 31,
2009
   
Changes in
market
prices
As of December
31, 2008
 
   
%
   
US$(000)
   
%
US$(000)
 
                                   
Equity securities
  +/-       10       33,073     +/-       10       21,762  
Equity securities
  +/-       25       82,683     +/-       30       65,285  
Equity securities
  +/-       30       99,220     +/-       50       108,809  
Mutual funds
  +/-       10       17,454     +/-       10       13,132  
Mutual funds
  +/-       25       43,635     +/-       20       26,264  
Mutual funds
  +/-       30       52,361     +/-       30       39,397  
 
 
F-116

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(ii)
Foreign exchange risk -
The Group is exposed to foreign currency exchange rates on its financial position and cash flows.  Management sets limits on the level of exposure by currency and in total for both overnight and intra-day positions, which are monitored daily.

Foreign currency transactions are made at the free market exchange rates of the countries where Credicorp’s Subsidiaries are established.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Group’s assets and liabilities by currencies were as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
U.S. Dollars
   
Peruvian 
currency
   
Other
currencies
   
Total
   
U.S. Dollars
   
Peruvian 
currency
   
Other
currencies
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                 
Monetary assets -
                                               
Cash and due from banks
    3,094,366       501,769       240,523       3,836,658       3,156,279       495,550       114,342       3,766,171  
Trading securities
    13,982       8,920       47,872       70,774       23,220       11,523       1,341       36,084  
Available-for-sale investments
    2,354,804       2,034,768       690,034       5,079,606       2,890,978       1,734,526       325,250       4,950,754  
Loans, net
    6,755,563       4,285,076       190,641       11,231,280       6,930,125       3,298,579       93,337       10,322,041  
Financial assets designated to fair value through profit or loss
    135,670       -       -       135,670       136,311       1,634       -       137,945  
Other assets
    507,057       563,065       22,977       1,093,099       594,107       255,476       12,383       861,966  
      12,861,442       7,393,598       1,192,047       21,447,087       13,731,020       5,797,288       546,653       20,074,961  
                                                                 
Monetary liabilities -
                                                               
Deposits and obligations
    (8,156,869 )     (5,398,780 )     (536,179 )     (14,091,828 )     (8,614,042 )     (4,963,932 )     (372,463 )     (13,950,437 )
Due to bank and correspondents and borrowed funds
    (2,126,963 )     (128,800 )     (896 )     (2,256,659 )     (2,189,114 )     (140,155 )     (1,438 )     (2,330,707 )
Technical reserves, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    (744,393 )     (274,398 )     -       (1,018,791 )     (734,537 )     (233,233 )     -       (967,770 )
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    (612,098 )     (562,739 )     (112,185 )     (1,287,022 )     (311,860 )     (473,370 )     -       (785,230 )
Other liabilities
    (443,346 )     (376,967 )     (50,142 )     (870,455 )     (691,280 )     (274,830 )     (24,710 )     (990,820 )
      (12,083,669 )     (6,741,684 )     (699,402 )     (19,524,755 )     (12,540,833 )     (6,085,520 )     (398,611 )     (19,024,964 )
      777,773       651,914       492,645       1,922,332       1,190,187       (288,232 )     148,042       1,049,997  
                                                                 
Forwards position, net
    265,114       (198,637 )     (66,477 )     -       (627,600 )     591,628       35,972       -  
Currency swaps position, net
    (142,015 )     183,598       (41,583 )     -       71,154       (71,154 )     -       -  
Cross currency swaps position, net
    77,768       129,049       (206,817 )     -       (317,043 )     317,043       -       -  
Options, net
    (3,711 )     3,711       -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                 
Net monetary position
    974,929       769,635       177,768       1,922,332       316,698       549,285       184,014       1,049,997  
 
 
F-117

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The Group manages foreign exchange risk by monitoring and controlling the position values due to changes in exchange rates.  The Group measures its performance in U.S. Dollar, so if the net foreign exchange position (e.g. Peruvian currency) is an asset, any depreciation of the U.S. Dollar with respect to this currency would affect positively the Group’s consolidated statements of financial position.  The current position in a foreign currency comprises exchange rate-linked assets and liabilities in that currency.  An institution’s open position in individual currencies comprises assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet items denominated in the respective foreign currency for which the institution itself bears the risk; any appreciation/depreciation of the foreign exchange would affect the consolidated income statement.

The Group’s net foreign exchange balance is the sum of its positive open non-U.S. Dollar positions (net long position) less the sum of its negative open non-U.S. Dollar positions (net short position); and any devaluation/revaluation of the foreign exchange position would affect the consolidated income statement.  A currency mismatch would leave the Group’s consolidated statements of financial position vulnerable to a fluctuation of the foreign currency (exchange rate shock).

The table below shows the sensitivity analysis of the Peruvian Currency, the currency to which the Group had significant exposure as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 on its non-trading monetary assets and liabilities and its forecast cash flows.  The analysis calculates the effect of a reasonably possible movement of the currency rate against the U.S. Dollar, with all other variables held constant on the consolidated income statement, before income tax.  A negative amount in the table reflects a potential net reduction in consolidated income statement, while a positive amount reflects a net potential increase:

Sensitivity Analysis
 
Change in currency
rates
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
%
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                   
Devaluation -
                 
Peruvian Currency
    5       (40,507 )     (28,910 )
Peruvian Currency
    10       (85,515 )     (61,032 )
                         
Revaluation -
                       
Peruvian Currency
    5       36,649       26,156  
Peruvian Currency
    10       69,967       49,935  

 
F-118

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

29.3
Liquidity risk -
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group is unable to meet its payment obligations associated with its financial liabilities when they fall due and to replace funds when they are withdrawn.  The consequence may be the failure to meet obligations to repay depositors, fulfill commitments to lend or meet other operating cash needs.

The Group is exposed to daily calls on its available cash resources from overnight deposits, current accounts, maturing deposits, loans draw-downs, guarantees and other calls.  The Group does not maintain cash resources to meet all of these needs, as experience shows that a minimum level of reinvestment of maturing funds can be predicted with a high level of certainty.  The Management of the Group’s subsidiaries sets limits on the minimum proportion of funds available to meet such calls and on the minimum level of inter-bank and other borrowing facilities that should be in place to cover withdrawals at unexpected levels of demands.  Sources of liquidity are regularly reviewed by a separate team in Group Treasury Department to maintain a wide diversification by currency, geography, provider, product and term.

The matching and controlled mismatching of the maturities and interest rates of assets and liabilities is fundamental to the management of the Group.  It is unusual for banks to be completely matched, as transacted business is often based on uncertain terms and of different types.  An unmatched position potentially enhances profitability, but also increases the risk of losses.

The maturities of assets and liabilities and the ability to replace, at an acceptable cost, interest-bearing liabilities as they mature are important factors in assessing the liquidity of the Group and its exposure to changes in interest rates and exchange rates.

Liquidity requirements to support calls under guarantees and standby letters of credit are considerably less than the amount of the commitment, because the Group does not generally expect the third party to draw funds under the agreement.  The total outstanding contractual amount of commitments to extend credit does not necessarily represent future cash requirements, as many of these commitments will expire or terminate without being funded.

A maturity mismatch, long-term illiquid assets against short-term liabilities, exposes a consolidated statements of financial position to risks related both to rollover and to interest rates.  If liquid assets do not cover maturing debts; a consolidated statements of financial position is vulnerable to a rollover risk.  Furthermore, a sharp increase in interest rates can dramatically increase the cost of rolling over short-term liabilities, leading to a rapid increase in debt service.  The contractual-maturity gap report is useful in showing liquidity characteristics.

 
F-119

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The table below presents the cash flows payable by the Group by remaining contractual maturities (including future interest payments) at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position.  The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows:

   
As of December 31, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Up to a month
   
From 1 to 3
months
   
From 3 to 12
months
   
From 1 to 5 years
   
Over 5 years
   
Total
   
Up to a month
   
From 1 to 3
months
   
From 3 to 12
months
   
From 1 to 5 years
   
Over 5 years
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                                         
Deposits and obligations
    4,100,737       1,589,588       6,382,365       2,071,812       119,360       14,263,862       4,200,202       1,573,685       6,727,731       1,485,233       381,475       14,368,326  
Due to bank and correspondents and Borrowed funds
    382,789       364,018       418,620       1,285,930       368,271       2,819,628       222,667       262,027       355,464       1,226,162       564,212       2,630,532  
Accounts payable to reinsurer and coinsurers
    7,058       31,974       10,119       -       -       49,151       16,232       13,663       25,946       -       -       55,841  
Technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums
    61,464       112,548       266,121       210,524       630,396       1,281,053       57,470       117,509       280,424       200,023       606,096       1,261,522  
Bonds and subordinates notes issued
    13,078       27,855       154,433       749,497       1,004,251       1,949,114       6,635       5,883       110,975       444,563       589,016       1,157,072  
Other liabilities
    454,405       26,387       89,225       102,950       20,045       693,012       122,619       155,032       379,563       90,430       60,048       807,692  
                                                                                                 
Total liabilities
    5,019,531       2,152,370       7,320,883       4,420,713       2,142,323       21,055,820       4,625,825       2,127,799       7,880,103       3,446,411       2,200,847       20,280,985  

The table below shows the contractual maturity of the Group’s contingent credits at the date of the consolidated statements of financial position:

   
As of December 31, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Up to a month
   
From 1 to 3
months
   
From 3 to 12
months
   
From 1 to 5 years
   
Over 5 years
   
Total
   
Up to a month
   
From 1 to 3
months
   
From 1 to 12
months
   
From 1 to 5 years
   
Over 5 years
   
Total
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                                                         
Contingent credits
    283,051       798,222       1,019,234       303,597       124,031       2,528,135       208,248       541,900       705,150       279,693       20,911       1,755,902  

The group expects that not all of the contingent liabilities or commitments will be drawn before expiration of the commitments.

 
F-120

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

29.4
Operational risk -
Operational risk is the risk of loss arising from systems failure, human error, fraud or external events.  When controls fail to perform, operational risks can cause damage to reputation, have legal or regulatory implications, or lead to financial loss.  The Group cannot expect to eliminate all operational risks, but through a control framework and by monitoring and responding to potential risks, the Group is able to manage the risks.  Controls include effective segregation of duties, access, authorization and reconciliation procedures, staff education and assessment processes, including the use of Internal Audit.

29.5
Risk of the insurance activity -
The principal risk the Group faces under insurance contracts is that the actual claims and benefit payments or the timing thereof, differ from expectations. This is influenced by the frequency of claims, severity of claims, actual benefits paid and subsequent development of long-term claims. Therefore the objective of the Group is to ensure that sufficient reserves are available to cover these liabilities.

The above risk exposure is mitigated by diversification across a large portfolio of insurance contracts and geographical areas. The variability of risks is also improved by careful selection and implementation of underwriting strategy guidelines, as well as the use of reinsurance arrangements. The Group’s placement of reinsurance is diversified such that it is neither dependent on a single reinsurer nor are the operations of the Group substantially dependent upon any single reinsurance contract.

Life insurance contracts
Life insurance contracts offered by the Group include whole life, term assurance, unitized pensions, guaranteed annuity pensions, pure endowment pensions and mortgage endowments.

Whole life and term assurance are conventional regular premium products where lump sum benefits are payable on death or permanent disability. Few contracts have a surrender value.

The main risks that the Group is exposed are mortality, morbidity, longevity, investment return, expense of loss arising from expense experience being different than expected, and policyholder decision, all of which, do not vary significantly in relation to the location of the risk insured by the Group, type of risk insured or industry.

The Group’s underwriting strategy is designed to ensure that risks are well diversified in terms of type of risk and level of insured benefits. This is largely achieved through diversification across industry sectors and geography, the use of medical screening in order to ensure that pricing takes account of current health conditions and family medical history, regular review of actual claims experience and product pricing, as well as detailed claims handling procedures. Underwriting limits are in place to enforce appropriate risk selection criteria. For example, the Group has the right not to renew individual policies, it can impose deductibles and it has the right to reject the payment of fraudulent claims. Insurance contracts also entitle the Group to pursue third parties for payment of some or all costs. The Group further enforces a policy of actively managing and prompt pursuing of claims, in order to reduce its exposure to unpredictable future developments that can negatively impact the Group.
For contracts when death or disability is the insured risk, the significant factors that could increase the overall frequency of claims are epidemics, widespread changes in lifestyle and natural disasters, resulting in earlier or more claims than expected.  Group wide reinsurance limits of US$50,000 on any single life insured and on all high risk individuals insured are in place.

 
F-121

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

For annuity contracts, the most significant factor is continuing improvement in medical science and social conditions that would increase longevity.

Management has made a sensitivity analysis of the estimates of the technical reserves, note 14(c).

Non-life insurance contracts (general insurance and healthcare)
The Group principally issues the following types of general insurance contracts: motor, household and commercial. Healthcare contracts provide medical expense cover to policyholders. Risks under non-life insurance policies usually cover 12 months.

For general insurance contracts the most significant risks arise from climate changes, natural disasters and other type of damages. For healthcare contracts the most significant risks arise from lifestyle changes, epidemics and medical science and technology improvements.

These risks do not vary significantly in relation to the location of the risk insured by the Group, type of risk insured or industry.

The above risks exposures are mitigated by diversification across a large portfolio of insurance contracts. The variability of risk is improved by careful selection and implementation of underwriting strategies, which are designed to ensure that risks are diversified in terms of risks type and level of insured benefits. This is largely achieved through diversification across industry sectors and geography. Further, strict claim review policies to assess all new and ongoing claims, regular detailed review of claims handling procedures and frequent investigation of possible fraudulent claims are all policies and procedures put in place to reduce the Group´s risk exposure. Also, the Group actively manages and promptly pursues claims, in order to reduce its exposure to unpredictable future developments that can negatively impact the Group.

The Group has also limited its exposure by imposing maximum claim amounts on certain contracts as well as the use of reinsurance arrangements in order to limit its exposure to catastrophic events.

 
F-122

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

In the following paragraphs the Group has segregated some risk information related to its insurance business, which has been already included in the Group’s consolidated risk information; in order to provide more specific insight about this particular business.

 
(a)
Sensitivity to changes in interest rates -
The following tables demonstrate the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, in consolidated income statement and consolidated statements of comprehensive income of the insurance activity, before income tax:

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
Currency
 
Changes in basis
points
   
Sensitivity of net
income
   
Sensitivity of
comprehensive
income
 
               
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                     
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       50     -/+       164     -/ +     15,967  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       75     -/+       246     -/ +     23,951  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       100     -/+       328     -/ +     31,935  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       150     -/+       493     -/ +     47,902  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       50     +/-       35     -/ +     3,469  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       75     +/-       52     -/ +     5,204  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       100     +/-       69     -/ +     6,939  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       150     +/-       104     -/ +     10,408  

   
As of December 31, 2008
 
Currency
 
Changes in basis
points
   
Sensitivity of net
income
   
Sensitivity of
comprehensive
income
 
               
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                                     
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       50     -/+       201     -/ +     6,734  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       100     -/+       402     -/ +     13,468  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       200     -/+       805     -/ +     26,935  
U.S. Dollar
  +/-       300     -/+       1,207     -/ +     40,403  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       50     +/-       58     -/ +     2,597  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       100     +/-       117     -/ +     5,193  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       200     +/-       234     -/ +     10,386  
Peruvian Currency
  +/-       300     +/-       351     -/ +     15,579  

 
F-123

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The interest rate sensitivities set out in the table above are illustrative only and employ simplified scenarios. It should be noted that the effects may not be linear and therefore the results cannot be extrapolated. The sensitivities do not incorporate actions that could be taken by Management to mitigate the effect of the interest rate movements, nor any changes in policyholders´ behaviors.
 
 
(b)
Liquidity risk of the insurance activity -
The Group´s insurance companies are exposed to requirements of cash available, mainly for contracts of insurance claims of short term. The Group holds the available funds for covering its liabilities according to their maturity and estimated unexpected claims.
 
The Group´s insurance companies control liquidity risk through the exposure of the maturity of their liabilities. Therefore, the investment plan has been structured considering the maturities in order to manage the risk of fund requirements to cover insurance claims and others, in addition to the Group support.
 
The undiscounted cash flows payable by the Group for technical, insurance claims reserves and reserves for unearned premiums by their remaining contractual maturities, including future interest payments, are presented in note 29.3.
 
Other non-derivative financial liabilities are related to the balances presented in the consolidated statements of financial position and include mainly accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers and other liabilities with contractual maturities of less than one year, see also note 29.3.
 
Unit linked liabilities are repayable or transferable on demand and are included in the up to a year column.
 
 
(c)
Credit risk of the insurance activity -
Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial instrument will cause a financial loss to the other party by failing to discharge an obligation.
 
The following policies and procedures are in place to mitigate the Group’s exposure to credit risk:

-
The Group sets the maximum amounts and limits that may be advanced to corporate counterparties by reference to their long- term credit ratings.

-
Credit risk from customer balances, will only persist during the grace period specified in the policy document or trust deed until the policy is paid up or terminated. Commissions paid to intermediaries are netted off against amounts receivable from them in order to reduce the risk of doubtful accounts.

-
Reinsurance is placed with counterparties that have a good credit rating and concentration of risk is avoided by following guidelines in respect of counterparties’ limits which are set each year by the Board of Directors and are subject to regular reviews. At each reporting date, Management performs an assessment of creditworthiness of reinsurers and updates the reinsurance purchase strategy, ascertaining suitable allowance for impairment.

 
F-124

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

-
A Group policy setting out the assessment and determination of what constitutes credit risk for the Group is in place, its compliance is monitored and exposures and breaches are reported to the Group risk committee.  The policy is regularly reviewed for pertinence and for changes in the risk environment.

-
The Group issues unit-linked investment policies whereby the policyholder bears the investment risk on the assets held in the unit-linked funds as the policy benefits are directly linked to the value of the assets in the fund. Therefore, the Group has no material credit risk on unit-linked financial assets.

-
The Group has not provided the credit risk analysis for the financial assets of the unit-linked business. This is due to the fact that, in unit-linked business, the liability to policyholders is linked to the performance and value of the assets that back those liabilities and the shareholders have no direct exposure to any credit risk in those assets.

29.6
Capital management
The Group maintains an actively managed capital base to cover risks inherent in its business.  The adequacy of the Group’s capital is monitored using, among other measures, the rules and ratios established by the SBS, the supervising authority of its major subsidiaries and for consolidation purposes.

The Group’s objectives when managing capital, which is a broader concept than the “Equity” on the face of the consolidated statements of financial position, are: (i) to comply with the capital requirements set by the regulators of the banking markets where the entities within the Group operate; (ii) to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern so that it can continue to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders; and (iii) to maintain a strong capital base to support the development of its business.

Capital adequacy and the use of regulatory capital are monitored daily by the Group’s Management, employing techniques based on the guidelines developed by the Basel Committee, as implemented by the SBS for supervisory purposes.  The required information is filed with the SBS on a quarterly basis.  The SBS requires each bank or banking group to: (a) hold the minimum level of the regulatory capital, and (b) maintain a ratio of total regulatory capital to the risk-weighted asset at maximum level of 11.  On June 2008, through Legislative Decree 1028, the ratio indicated in (b) above was modified, requiring that starting July 1, 2011, the regulatory capital be at least 10 percent of the assets and contingent credits weighed by credit risk plus 10 times the required regulatory capital for operational and market risk (9.5 percent starting July 1, 2009 and 9.8 percent starting July 1, 2010).  In addition, those individual banking subsidiaries or similar financial institutions not incorporated in Peru are directly regulated and supervised by their local banking supervisor, whose regulatory capital requirements may differ from country to country.

The risk-weighted assets are measured by means of a hierarchy of five risk weights classified according to the nature and reflecting an estimate of credit, market and other risks associated with each asset and counterparty, taking into account any eligible collateral or guarantees.  A similar treatment is adopted for off-balance sheet exposure, with some adjustments to reflect the more contingent nature of the potential losses.

 
F-125

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

According to the SBS regulations, the Junior Subordinated Notes issued by BCP through its Panama branch for US$250.0 million are computable to determinate the Group’s regulatory capital, see note 15(a)(iii).

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the regulatory capital for the subsidiaries engaged in financial and insurance activities amounted to approximately US$2,221.1 and US$1,604.7 million, respectively.  This regulatory capital has been determined in accordance with SBS regulations in force as of such dates.  According to the SBS regulations, the Group’s regulatory capital exceeds in approximately US$660.3 million the minimum regulatory capital required as of December 31, 2009 (approximately US$263.6 million as of December 31, 2008).

29.7
Fair value
 
(a)
Fair value is defined as the amount for which an asset could be exchanged or a liability settled, between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction, assuming an on-going enterprise.

When a financial instrument is traded in an active and liquid market, its quoted market price in an actual transaction provides the best evidence of its fair value.  When a quoted market price is not available, or may not be indicative of the fair value of the instrument, to determine such fair value, the current market value of another instrument that is substantially similar, discounted cash flow analysis or other estimation techniques may be used, all of which are significantly affected by assumptions used.  Although Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of these financial instruments, there are inherent weaknesses in any estimation technique.  As a result, the fair value may not be indicative of the net realizable or liquidation value.

 
F-126

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

The methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair values depend on the terms and risk characteristics of the various financial instruments and include the following:

(i)
Assets for which fair value approximates carrying value - For financial assets and financial liabilities that are liquid or having a short term maturity (less than three months) it is assumed that the carrying amounts approximate to their fair value.  This assumption is also applied to demand deposits, savings accounts without a specific maturity and variable rate financial instruments.

(ii)
Fixed rate financial instruments - The fair value of fixed rate financial assets and liabilities carried at amortized cost are estimated by comparing market interest rates when they were first recognized with current market rates offered for similar financial instruments.  The estimated fair value of fixed interest bearing deposits is based on discounted cash flows using prevailing money-market interest rates for debts with similar credit risk and maturity.  For quoted debt issued the fair values are calculated based on quoted market prices.  For those notes issued where quoted market prices are not available, a discounted cash flow model is used based on a current interest rate yield curve appropriate for the remaining term to maturity.

(iii)
Financial instrument recorded at fair value - The fair value for financial instruments traded in active markets at the dates of the consolidated statements of financial position is based on their quoted market price or dealer price quotations (bid price for long positions and ask price for short positions), without any deduction for transaction costs.  For all other financial instruments not listed in an active market, the fair value is determined by using appropriate valuation techniques.  Valuation techniques include net present value techniques and comparison to similar instruments for which market observable prices exist, see (b).

 
F-127

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Based in the aforementioned, set out below is a comparison of the carrying amounts and fair values of the Group’s financial instruments that are carried in the consolidated statements of financial position.  The table does not include the fair values of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities:

   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Book 
value
   
Fair 
value
   
Book 
value
   
Fair 
value
 
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                         
Assets
                       
Cash and due from banks
    3,836,658       3,836,658       3,766,171       3,766,171  
Trading securities
    70,774       70,774       36,084       36,084  
Investments available-for-sale
    5,079,606       5,079,606       4,950,754       4,950,754  
Loans, net
    11,231,280       11,253,024       10,322,041       10,330,518  
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
    135,670       135,670       137,945       137,945  
Premiums and other policies receivable
    121,338       121,338       111,561       111,561  
Accounts receivable from reinsurers and coinsurers
    137,098       137,098       165,144       165,144  
Due from customers on acceptances
    96,423       96,423       232,580       232,580  
Other assets
    420,222       420,222       326,740       326,740  
Total
    21,129,069       21,150,813       20,049,020       20,057,497  
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Deposits and obligation
    14,091,828       14,091,828       13,950,437       13,950,437  
Due to banks and correspondents
    1,167,438       1,167,502       1,179,991       1,180,404  
Banker’s acceptances outstanding
    96,423       96,423       232,580       232,580  
Accounts payable to reinsurers and coinsurers
    48,009       48,009       55,841       55,841  
Borrowed funds
    1,089,221       1,093,215       1,150,716       1,153,108  
Bonds and subordinated notes issued
    1,287,022       1,321,004       785,230       773,652  
Other liabilities
    596,589       596,589       575,112       575,112  
Total
    18,376,530       18,414,570       17,929,907       17,921,134  

 
F-128

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

 
(b)
Determination of fair value and fair values hierarchy -
The following table shows an analysis of financial instruments recorded at fair value by level of the fair value hierarchy:
 
         
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
December 31, 2009
 
Note
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
   
US$(000)
 
                               
Financial assets
                             
                               
Derivative financial instruments:
                             
Held for trading
          -       83,077       -       83,077  
Held as hedges
          -       14,264       -       14,264  
   
11(b)
      -       97,341       -       97,341  
Trading securities
          53,716       17,058       -       70,774  
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss
 
7
      135,670       -       -       135,670  
                                       
Investments available-for-sale:
                                     
Debt securities
          1,490,567       3,164,273       42,423       4,697,263  
Equity securities
          301,420       22,058       7,255       330,733  
   
5(a)
      1,791,987       3,186,331       49,678       5,027,996  
Total financial assets
          1,981,373       3,300,730       49,678       5,331,781  
                                       
Financial liabilities
                                     
                                       
Derivative financial instruments:
                                     
Held for trading
          -       63,019       -       63,019  
Held as hedges
          -       104,830       -       104,830  
Total financial liabilities
 
11(b)
      -       167,849       -       167,849  

 
F-129

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

Included in the Level 1 category are financial assets that are measured in whole or in part by reference to published quotes in an active market. A financial instrument is regarded as quoted in an active market if quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, pricing service or regulatory agency and those prices represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s length basis.

The Level 2 category are financial assets and liabilities measured using a valuation technique based on assumptions that are supported by prices from observable current market transactions, are assets and liabilities for which pricing is obtained via pricing services, but where prices have not been determined in an active market, financial assets with fair values based on broker quotes, investments in private equity funds with fair values obtained via fund managers and assets that are valued using the Group’s own models whereby the majority of assumptions are market observable.

The Level 3 category are financial assets measured using a valuation technique (model) based on assumptions that are neither supported by prices from observable current market transactions in the same instrument nor are they based on available market data.

Level 3 financial instruments measured at fair value amounting to US$49.7 million.  The net unrealized gains of these instruments amount to US$3.6 million, and the gross impairment recorded for these investments amounting to US$7.8 million as of December 31, 2009.

During 2009, there were not transfer from Level 3 to Level 1 and Level 2 of financial instruments measured at fair value.

29.8
Fiduciary activities, management of funds and pension funds -
The Group provides custody, trustee, investment management and advisory services to third parties.  The Group makes allocations and purchase and sale decisions in relation to a wide range of financial instruments.  Those assets that are held in a fiduciary capacity are not included in these consolidated financial statements.  These services give rise to the risk that the Group will be accused of poor administration or under-performance.

 
F-130

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the assigned value of the financial assets under administration (in millions of U.S. Dollars) is as follows:

   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Investments funds
    1,997.2       1,394.6  
Pension funds
    6,582.8       4,199.0  
Equity managed
    2,534.4       1,966.8  
                 
Total
    11,114.4       7,560.4  

 
F-131

 
 
ITEM 19.
EXHIBITS
 
(a) Index to Exhibits
 
1.1
Bye-laws of Credicorp Ltd., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 30, 2005
   
1.2
Memorandum of Association of Credicorp Ltd., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 27, 2003
   
8
List of Subsidiaries, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 27, 2003
   
12.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
12.2
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
13.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
13.2
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 
150

 

SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

CREDICORP LTD.
 
     
By:
/s/ ALVARO CORREA
 
Name:
Alvaro Correa
 
Title:
Chief Financial Officer
 

Dated:  June 17, 2010

 
151

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 
1.1
Bye-laws of Credicorp Ltd., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 30, 2005
     
 
1.2
Memorandum of Association of Credicorp Ltd., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 27, 2003
     
 
8
List of Subsidiaries, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8 to Credicorp’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 27, 2003
     
 
12.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
 
12.2
Certification by the Chief Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
 
13.1
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
 
13.2
Certification by the Chief Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 
152