Being aware of the environment in which one operates as well as of one's own strengths and weaknesses is a key element

in the success or failure of any business. Bank's management is cognizant of the fact that the economy and the banking industry are in a state of flux and regularly conducts SWOT analysis of the organization to capitalize on its strengths and work on its weaknesses in view of the opportunities available in its environment and the threats that it needs to overcome. A SWOT summary of the business as it stands today is given below: Strengths 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Pakistan's second largest Islamic banking branch network Second Largest market share of Pakistan's Islamic banking sector Comprehensive menu of truly Shariah-compliant products and services Dedicated Shariah Supervisory Board comprising of world-renowned Shariah scholars Dedicated department for development of Shariah-compliant products, research and Shariah audit.
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Weaknesses 1. Limited availability of human resources with Islamic banking knowledge 2. Limited opportunities for investment of surplus liquidity.

Opportunities 1. Growing local and international Islamic Banking market 2. Increasing awareness about Islamic financial services and demand for Shariah-compliant products and services. 3. Significant potential for market penetration.

Threats 1. Conventional Banks entering Islamic Banking Market 2. Macro-economic challenges 3. Misconceptions and misunderstandings among the general public about Islamic banking

Porters Five Forces Model

Forces

Intensity

Rivalry among competing firms

High

Entry of New Competitor

High

Development of Substitute Products

Low

Bargaining Powers of Suppliers

Low

Bargaining Power of Consumers

High

Projected Income Karachi, April 24, 2013: Bank Alfalah has posted a healthy profit before tax of Rs. 1.527 billion for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013, a commendable achievement considering the challenging macro-economic landscape and the declining interest rates environment.

Profit after tax for the first quarter was recorded at Rs. 1.011 billion and earnings per share were reported at Rs. 0.75. The bank has managed to increase its non mark-up income by 27% to Rs. 1.864 billion in the first quarter ended March 31, 2013 compared to the corresponding period last year. Revenue for the first quarter was reported at Rs. 5.688 billion, a dposition. ecline from Rs. 6.108 billion reported in the corresponding period last year mainly attributable to pressure on net interest income due to lower interest rates in the current quarter. Total assets increased to Rs. 544.724 billion at March 31, 2013 as compared to Rs. 536.467 billion at year end 2012, further strengthening banks financial