Presentation basis

Applicable Accounting Standards

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The consolidated financial statements of the Bank comprise the Standards and Interpretations adopted by the IASB and includes:

•

the IFRS;

•

the International Accounting Standards (IAS); and

•

the interpretations developed by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) or former IFRIC (SIC).

Going concern

The Bank’s management has made an assessment of its ability to continue as a going concern and is satisfied that it has the resources to continue in business for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, management is not aware of any material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on the Bank’s ability to continue as a going concern. Therefore, these consolidated financial statements continue to be prepared on the going concern basis.

Figures expressed in thousands of pesos

These consolidated financial statements are presented in thousands of Argentine pesos in terms of purchasing power as of December 31, 2021, unless otherwise expressly stated, and are rounded up to the nearest amount in thousands of pesos, except as otherwise indicated (see “Measuring unit” section of this note).

Statement of financial position - Disclosure

The Bank presents its consolidated statements of financial position in order of liquidity based on the Bank’s intention and perceived ability to recover/settle the majority of assets/liabilities of the corresponding consolidated financial statement line item. An analysis regarding recovery or settlement within 12 months after the reporting date and more than 12 months after the reporting date is disclosed in note 26.

Financial assets and financial liabilities are generally reported in gross figures in the consolidated statement of financial position. They are only offset and reported in net figures when there is a legal and enforceable right to offset such financial assets and liabilities and the Management also intends to settle them on a net basis or to realize assets and settle liabilities simultaneously.

These consolidated financial statements were prepared on a historical cost basis, except for certain financial instruments which were valued at fair value through Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) or at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss. For further information see note 13. In addition, in the case of derivative instruments (Futures and Forwards) both assets and liabilities were valued at Fair Value through Profit or Loss.

Comparative information

The statement of financial position as of December 31, 2021 is presented comparatively with the immediately preceding fiscal year and the statements of income and other comprehensive income, the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity and the statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, are presented comparatively with those as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.

The figures related to comparative information have been restated to consider the changes in the general purchasing power of the functional currency and, as a result, are stated in terms of the current measuring unit at the end of the reporting period (see the section “Measuring unit”).

Measuring unit

These consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2021 have been restated for the changes in the general purchasing power of the functional currency (Argentine pesos) of the Bank, as of that date, as established by IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies”.

According to IFRS, the restatement of financial statements is needed when the functional currency is the currency of a hyperinflationary economy. To achieve consistency in identifying an economic environment of that nature, IAS 29 establishes (i) certain nonexclusive qualitative indicators consisting in analyzing the general population behavior, prices, interest rates and wages with changes in price indexes and the loss of purchasing power, and (ii) as quantitative characteristic, which is the most used condition in practice, to test if a three-year cumulative inflation rate is around 100% or more. Due to miscellaneous macroeconomic factors, the three-year inflation rate exceeded that figure and the Argentine government goals and other available estimates also indicate that this trend will not be reversed in the short term.

The restatement was applied as if the economy had always been hyperinflationary, using a general price index that reflects changes in general purchasing power. To apply the restatement, a series of indexes were used, as prepared and published on a monthly basis by the Argentine Federation of Professional Councils of Economic Sciences (FACPCE, for its acronym in Spanish), which combines the consumer price index (CPI) on a monthly basis published by the Argentine Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC, for its acronym in Spanish) since January 2017 (baseline month: December 2016) with the wholesale prices indexes published by the INDEC until that date. For the months of November and December 2015, for which the INDEC did not publish the wholesale price index (WPI) variation, the CPI variation for CABA was used.

Considering the abovementioned indexes, the inflation rate was 50.94% and 36.14% for the fiscal years ended on December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Below is a description of the restatement mechanism provided by IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies”:

Description of the main aspects of the restatement process for statements of financial position:

(i)

Monetary items (the ones that are already stated in terms of the current measuring unit) are not restated because they are already expressed in terms of the monetary unit current at the end of the reporting period. In an inflationary period, an entity holding monetary assets generates purchasing power loss and holding monetary liabilities generates purchasing power gain, provided that the assets and liabilities are not linked to an adjustment mechanism that offsets, to some extent such effects. The net gain or loss on a monetary basis is included in profit or loss for the period.

(ii)

Assets and liabilities subject to adjustments based on specific agreements are adjusted in accordance with such agreements.

(iii)

Non-monetary items stated at current cost at the end of the reporting period, are not restated for presentation purposes in the statement of financial position, but the adjustment process must be completed to determine, in terms of constant measurement unit, the income or loss produced by holding these non-monetary items.

(iv)

Non-monetary items carried at historical cost or at current cost at some earlier date before the reporting date, are restated by an index that reflects the general level of price variation from the acquisition or revaluation date to the closing date, proceeding then to compare the restated amounts of those assets with their recoverable amounts. Income or loss for the period related to depreciation of property, plant and equipment and amortization of Intangible Assets and other non-monetary cost are determined over the new restated amounts.

(v)

When an entity capitalizes borrowing cost in the non-monetary assets, the part of the borrowing cost that compensates for the inflation during the same period is not capitalized.

(vi)

The restatement of non-monetary assets in terms of a current measurement unit at the end of the reporting period, without an equivalent adjustment for tax purposes generates a taxable temporary difference and a deferred income tax liability is recognized and the contra account is recognized as profit or loss for the period. When, beyond the restatement, there is a revaluation of non-monetary assets, the deferred tax related to the restatement is recognized in profit or loss for the period and deferred tax related to the revaluation is recognized in other comprehensive income for the period.

Description of the main aspects of the restatement process for statements of income and other comprehensive income:

(i)

Income and expenses are restated from the date the items were recorded, except for those income or loss items that reflect or include, in their determination, the consumption of assets measured at the currency purchasing power from a date prior to that which the consumption was recorded, which is restated using as a basis the acquisition date of the assets related to the item, except for income or losses arising from comparing the two measurements at currency purchasing power of different dates, for which it requires to identify the compared amounts, to restate them separately and to repeat the comparison, with the restated amounts.

(ii)

The gain or loss for holding monetary assets and liabilities, is separately disclosed in the consolidated statement of income.

Description of the main aspects of the restatement process for the statements of changes in shareholders’ equity:

(i)

All equity’s components are restated by applying a general price index, as mentioned before, from the beginning of the fiscal year and each variation of those components is restated from the contribution date or from the moment it was produced by any other way. The inflation adjustment related to “Capital stock” and “Additional paid-in capital” is accumulated in “Adjustment to Shareholders’ Equity”.

(ii)

Other comprehensive income generated after the transition date are presented in terms of the measuring unit current at the end of the reporting period.

Description of the main aspects of the restatement process for the statement of cash flows:

(i)

All items are restated in terms of the measuring unit current at the end of the reporting period.

(ii)

The monetary gain or losses generated by cash and cash equivalents are separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows after the cash flow from operating investment activities and financing activities, in a separate and independent line, under the description “Monetary effect on cash and cash equivalents”.

As a consequence, the application of IAS 29 results in an adjustment for the loss of purchasing power of the Argentine peso recorded in the consolidated statement of income as a loss on the net monetary position. In a period of inflation, as the Bank holds an excess of monetary assets over monetary liabilities, it loses purchasing power, which results in a loss on the net monetary position. This loss is derived as the difference resulting from the restatement of non-monetary assets and liabilities, equity and items in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Basis for consolidation

These consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Bank and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2021.

Subsidiaries are all the entities controlled by the Bank. The Bank controls another entity when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its continuing involvement with such other entity, and has the ability to use its power to direct the operating and financing policies of such other entity, to affect the amounts of such returns.

This generally happens when there is a shareholding of more than half of its shares having voting rights.

Notwithstanding the above, under certain particular circumstances, the Bank may still have control with less than a 50% interest or may not have the control even if it holds more than half of the shares of such other entity. Upon evaluating whether it has power over the controlled entity, and therefore controls the variation of its returns, the Bank shall consider all relevant facts and circumstances, including:

•

The purpose and design of the controlled entity.

•

What the relevant activities are and how decisions about those activities are made and whether the Bank has the ability to direct such relevant activities.

•

Contractual arrangements such as call rights, put rights and liquidation rights.

•

Whether the Bank is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with such controlled entity, and whether the Bank has the ability to use its power over the controlled entity to affect the amount of the Bank’s returns.

The structured entities have been designed to reach a specific business goal and for voting or similar rights, not to be the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when any voting rights are related to the administrative tasks only and the relevant activities are directed by means of contractual agreements.

As explained in note 1, on October 1, 2021, the Bank acquired an investment in Fintech SGR. Even though the Bank holds 49.9939% of Class B shares held by the protector partners, and the 24.99% in the total capital stock of this company, the Bank has the power to direct Fintech’s relevant activities. Therefore the Bank controls this structured entity and consolidates its financial statements together with the risk

funds (

Fondo

Riesgo

Subsidiaries are completely consolidated since the date of the effective transfer of the control over them to the Bank and consolidation ceases when the Bank loses control over the subsidiaries. These consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, income and each component of other comprehensive income of the Bank and its subsidiaries. Transactions between consolidated entities are completely eliminated.

Changes in a parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in the parent losing control of the subsidiary are equity transactions. However, if a parent company loses control of a subsidiary, it shall derecognize the assets (including any goodwill) and liabilities of the subsidiary, any non-controlling interests in the former subsidiary and other capital components, while any profit or loss derived from the transaction, event or circumstances that resulted in the loss of control shall be recognized as in profit or loss, and any investment retained in the former subsidiary shall be recognized at its fair value on the date control is lost.

The financial statements of the subsidiaries have been prepared as of the same dates and for

the same

accounting periods as those of the Bank, using uniform accounting policies consistent with those applied by the Bank. If necessary, adjustments shall be made to the financial statements of the subsidiaries so that the accounting policies used by the group are uniform.

The Bank considers the Argentine peso as its functional and presentation currency. To such effect, before consolidation, the financial statements of its subsidiary Macro Bank Limited, originally stated in US dollars, were translated to pesos (presentation currency) using the following method and applying the inflation adjustment above explained in section “Measuring unit” of this note:

Assets and liabilities were converted at the reference exchange rate of the BCRA, in force for US dollars at the closing of business on the last business day of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.

Figures related to the owners’ contributions (capital stock, non-capital Contributions and irrevocable capital contributions) were translated applying the effective exchange rates as of the date on which such contributions were paid in.

Income for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, were translated into pesos on a monthly basis, using the monthly average of the reference exchange rate of the BCRA.

Foreign currency translation differences arising as a result of the preceding paragraphs are recognized as a separate component within the Shareholders’ Equity account reporting them in the statement of other comprehensive income, which is called “Foreign currency translation differences in financial statements conversion”.

On the other hand, non-controlling interests represent the portion of income and equity not directly or indirectly attributable to the Bank. In these consolidated financial statements they are disclosed as a separate line in the statement of financial position, the statement of income, the statement of other comprehensive income and the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity.

The Bank has consolidated into its financial statements the financial statements of the following companies:


Subsidiaries	Principal Place of Business	Country	Main Activity
Macro Securities SA (1) and (2)	Ave. Eduardo Madero 1182 – CABA	Argentina	Stock exchange services
Macro Fiducia SA	Ave. Eduardo Madero 1182 – 2nd floor. CABA	Argentina	Services
Macro Fondos SGFCISA	Ave. Eduardo Madero 1182 – 24th floor, Office B–. CABA	Argentina	Management and administration of mutual funds
Macro Bank Limited (3)	Caves Village, Building 8 Office 1 – West Bay St., Nassau	Bahamas	Banking entity
Argenpay SAU	Ave. Eduardo Madero 1182 – CABA	Argentina	Electronic payments services
Fintech SGR (4)	Esmeralda 320 – 6 th floor – Office A – CABA	Argentina	Granting of guarantees

(1)	Consolidated with Macro Fondos SGFCISA (80.90% equity interest and voting rights).

(2)	The indirect interest of Banco Macro SA is held through Macro Fiducia SA.

(3)	Consolidated with Sud Asesores (ROU) SA (100% voting rights – Equity interest: 28,013).

(4)	Structured entity consolidated with the Bank since October 2021, as the control was obtained in such month.

The Bank’s equity interest and voting rights in the companies it consolidates is as follows:

•

As of December 31, 2021:


Subsidiaries	Shares				Bank’s interest						Non-controlling interest
Subsidiaries	Type		Number		Total capital stock			Voting rights			Total capital stock			Voting rights
Macro Securities SA		Common		12,776,680		99.925	%		99.932	%		0.075	%		0.068	%
Macro Fiducia SA		Common		46,935,318		99.046	%		99.046	%		0.954	%		0.954	%
Macro Fondos SGFCISA		Common		327,183		99.939	%		100.00	%		0.061	%
Macro Bank Limited		Common		39,816,899		99.999	%		100.00	%		0.001	%
Argenpay SAU (1)		Common		341,200,000		100.00	%		100.00	%
Fintech SGR (Structured entity)		Common		119,993		24.999	%		24.999	%		75.001	%		75.001	%

(1)	On December 15, 2021, the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Argenpay SAU accepted the irrevocable capital contributions for 100,000 made by Banco Macro SA, through the issuance of 100,000,000 common, registered shares, with a face value of Ps. 1.

•

As of December 31, 2020:


Subsidiaries	Shares				Bank’s interest						Non-controlling interest
Subsidiaries	Type		Number		Total capital stock			Voting rights			Total capital stock			Voting rights
Macro Securities SA		Common		12,776,680		99.925	%		99.932	%		0.075	%		0.068	%
Macro Fiducia SA		Common		46,935,318		99.046	%		99.046	%		0.954	%		0.954	%
Macro Fondos SGFCISA		Common		327,183		99.939	%		100.00	%		0.061	%
Macro Bank Limited		Common		39,816,899		99.999	%		100.00	%		0.001	%
Argenpay SAU		Common		241,200,000		100.00	%		100.00	%

Total assets, liabilities and Shareholders’ equity of the Bank and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:


Balances as of 12/31/2021	Banco Macro SA		Macro Bank Limited		Macro Securities SA		Macro Fiducia SA		Argenpay SAU		Fintech SGR		Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets		983,858,205		9,147,844		15,084,713		122,368		1,184,518		1,395,123		(11,493,308	)		999,299,463
Liabilities		744,258,642		6,178,147		11,710,996		2,874		694,678		1,349,026		(4,532,345	)		759,662,018
Equity attributable to the owners of the Bank		239,599,563		2,969,697		3,201,429		119,494		489,840		46,097		(6,826,557	)		239,599,563
Equity attributable to non-controlling interests						172,288								(134,406	)		37,882


Balances as of 12/31/2020	Banco Macro SA		Macro Bank Limited		Macro Securities SA		Macro Fiducia SA		Argenpay SAU		Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets		1,138,994,865		11,413,967		29,081,800		133,432		530,917		(11,068,112	)		1,169,086,869
Liabilities		910,251,958		7,482,320		26,562,125		8,123		256,184		(4,219,570	)		940,341,140
Equity attributable to the owners of the Bank		228,742,907		3,931,647		2,403,681		125,309		274,733		(6,735,370	)		228,742,907
Equity attributable to non-controlling interests						115,994						(113,172	)		2,822

The Bank’s Management considers there are no other companies or structured entities to be included in the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2021.

Summary of significant accounting policies

Below there is a description of the principal valuation and disclosure criteria used for the preparation of these consolidated financial statements as December 31, 2021:

3.1

Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency

The Bank considers the Argentine Peso as its functional and presentation currency. The assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency, mainly in US dollars, were valued at BCRA benchmark US dollar exchange rate effective as of the closing date of transactions on the last business day of each fiscal year.

Additionally, assets and liabilities denominated in other foreign currencies were translated at the repo exchange rate in US Dollars communicated by the BCRA’s dealing room. Foreign exchange differences were recorded in the related Statements of income as “Difference in quoted prices of gold and foreign currency”.

3.2

Financial Instruments

Initial Recognition and Measurement

The Bank recognizes a financial instrument when it becomes party to the contractual provisions thereof.

The purchase and sale of financial assets requiring the delivery of assets within the term generally established by the rules and regulations or the market conditions are recorded on the transaction’s trading date, i.e. on the date the Bank undertakes to acquire or sell the relevant asset.

At initial recognition, the financial assets and liabilities were recognized at fair value. Those financial assets and liabilities not recognized at fair value through profit or loss, were recognized at fair value adjusted for transactions costs directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of the financial asset or liability.

At initial recognition, the fair value of a financial instrument is generally the transaction price. Nevertheless, if part of the consideration received or paid is for something other than the financial instrument, the Bank estimates the fair value of the financial instrument. If the fair value is based on a valuation technique that uses only data from observable markets, the Bank shall recognize the difference between fair value at the initial recognition and the transaction price as gain or loss. When the fair value is based on a valuation technique that uses data from non-observable markets, the Bank shall recognize that deferred difference in profit or loss only to the extent that it arises from a change in a factor (including time) that market participants would take into account when pricing the asset or liability, or when the instrument is derecognized.

Finally, in the normal course of business, the Bank arranges repo transactions. According to IFRS 9, assets involved in repurchase and reverse repurchase transactions and received from or delivered to third parties, respectively, do not qualify to be recognized or derecognized, respectively (see note 7).

Subsequent measurement – Business Model

The Bank established three categories for the classification and measurement of its debt instruments, in accordance with the Bank’s business model to manage them and the contractual cash flow characteristics thereof:

•

At amortized cost: the objective of the business model is to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash flows.

•

At fair value through other comprehensive income: the objective of the business model is both collecting the contractual cash flows of the financial asset and/or of those derived from the sale of the financial asset.

•

At fair value from profit or loss: the objective of the business model is generating income derived from the purchase and sale of financial assets.

Therefore, the Bank measures its financial assets at fair value, except for those that meet the following two conditions and are measured at amortized cost:

•

The financial assets are held within a business model whose objective is to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash flows.

•

The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise, on specified dates, to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

The Bank’s business model is determined at a level that reflects how groups of financial assets are managed together to achieve a particular business objective.

The business model is not assessed on an instrument-by-instrument approach, but it should rather be determined on a higher level of aggregation and is based on observable factors such as:

•

How the performance of the business model and the financial assets held within that business model are evaluated and reported to the Bank’s key management personnel.

•

The risks that affect the performance of the business model (and the financial assets held within that business model) and, in particular, the way in which those risks are managed.

•

The expected frequency, value, timing and reasons of sales are also important aspects.

The assessment of the business model is performed on the basis of scenarios that the Bank reasonably expects to occur, without taking into account the scenarios such as the so-called ‘worst case’ or ‘stress case’ scenarios. If after the initial recognition cash flows are realized in a way that is different from the Bank’s expectations, the classification of the remaining financial assets held in that business model does not change, but it rather considers all relevant information to assess the newly originated or newly purchased financial assets.

Test of solely payments of principal and interest (the SPPI test)

As part of the classification process, the Bank assessed the contractual terms of its financial assets in order to determine if such financial instruments give rise to cash flows on specific dates which are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

For the purposes of this assessment, “principal” is defined as the fair value of the financial asset at initial recognition, provided such amount may change over the life of the financial instrument, for example, if there are repayments of principal or premium amortization or discount.

The most significant elements of interest within a loan agreement are typically the consideration for the time value of money and credit risk.

For the SPPI test, the Bank applies judgment and considers relevant factors such as the currency in which the financial asset is denominated and the period for which the interest rate is set.

However, contractual terms that introduce exposure to risks or volatility in the contractual cash flows that are unrelated to a basic lending arrangement do not give rise to contractual cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. In such cases, financial assets are required to be measured at fair value through profit or loss.

Therefore, the financial assets were classified pursuant to the above expressed as “Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss”, “Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income” or “Financial assets at amortized cost”. Such classification is disclosed in note 13.

•

Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

This category presents two subcategories: financial assets at fair value held for trading and financial assets initially designated at fair value by the Management or under section 6.7.1. of IFRS 9. The Bank’s Management has not designated, at the beginning, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss.

The Bank classifies the financial assets as held for trading when they have been acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of selling or repurchasing them in the short term or when they are part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that are managed together and for which there is evidence of a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking.

Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized at fair value in the consolidated statement of financial position. Changes in fair value are recognized under the item “Net gain from measurement of financial instruments at fair value” in the consolidated statement of income, as well as interest income or expenses and dividends pursuant to the contractual terms and conditions, or when the right to receive payment of the dividend is established.

The fair value estimation is explained in detail in section “Accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions” of this note, and note 13 describes the valuation process of financial instruments at fair value.

•

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (OCI)

A financial asset shall be measured at fair value through other comprehensive income if (i) the financial instrument is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets and (ii) the contractual terms of the financial asset meet the determination that cash flows are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

Debt instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income are recognized in the consolidated statement of financial position at fair value. Profit and loss derived from changes in fair value are recognized in the consolidated statement of other comprehensive income as “Profit or loss from financial instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income”. Interest income (calculated by the “effective interest method”, which is explained in the following section), profit and loss from translation differences and impairment are recognized in the statement of income in the same manner as for financial assets measured at amortized cost and are disclosed as “Interest income”, “Differences in quoted prices of gold and foreign currency” and “Credit loss expense on financial assets”, respectively.

When the Bank has more than one investment on the same security, it must be considered that they shall be disclosed using the first-in first-out costing method.

On derecognition, accumulated gains and losses previously recognized in OCI are reclassified to profit or loss.

•

Financial assets at amortized cost – Effective interest method

They represent financial assets held in order to collect contractual cash flows and the contractual terms of which give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial recognition, these financial assets are recognized in the statement of financial position at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less a loss allowance for expected credit losses (ECL).

Interest income and impairment are disclosed in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest income” and “Credit loss expense on financial assets”, respectively. Changes in the allowance for ECL are presented in note 9.

The effective interest method uses the rate that allows the discount of estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or lesser term, if applicable, to the net carrying amount of such financial instrument. When applying this method, the Bank identifies points paid or received, fees, premiums, discounts and transaction costs, incremental and direct costs as an integral part of the effective interest rate (hereinafter, EIR). For such purposes, interest is the consideration for the time value of money and for the credit risk associated with the amount of principal outstanding during a specific period of time.

When a financial asset becomes credit-impaired (as set out in note 3.2.4) and is therefore regarded a ‘Stage 3’, the Bank calculates interest income by applying the effective interest method to the net amortized cost of the financial asset. If the financial asset cures (as outlined in note 3.2.4) and is no longer credit-impaired, the Bank reverts to calculating interest income on a gross basis.

3.2.1

Cash and deposits in banks

They were valued at their nominal value plus the relevant accrued interest, if applicable. Accrued interests were allocated in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest income”.

3.2.2

Repo transactions (purchase and sale of financial instruments)

These transactions were recognized in the consolidated statement of financial position as financing granted (received), under “Repo transactions”.

The difference between purchase and sale prices of such instruments were recognized as interest accrued during the effective term of the transactions using the effective interest method and were allocated in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest income” and “Interest expense”.

3.2.3

Loans and other financing

They are non-derivative financial assets that the Bank holds within a business model whose objective is to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash flows and the contractual terms of which give rise, on specified dates, to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial recognition, loans and other financing were measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less a loss allowance for ECL. The amortized cost was calculated taking into account any discount or premium incurred in the origination or acquisition, and origination fees or commissions, which are part of the EIR. Income from interest was allocated in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest income”.

3.2.4

Impairment of financial assets

The accounting policy adopted on the impairment of financial assets not measured at fair value through profit or loss is detailed below:

3.2.4.1.

Overview of the ECL principles

The Bank recognizes a loss allowance for ECL on loans, other financing and other debt instruments not measured at fair value through profit or loss along with loan commitments and financial guarantee contracts (not measured at fair value through profit or loss) and contract assets and accounts receivable on loans; hereinafter, the “financial instruments”. Investments in Equity instruments are not subject to impairment under IFRS 9.

The loss allowance for ECL is based on credit losses expected to arise during the life of a financial asset (lifetime ECL), unless there was no significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, in which case the loss allowance is based on 12-month ECL. The Bank’s policies to determine whether credit risk increased significantly are included in note 52.1.1 “Assessment of credit risk impairment”, section “Definitions of significant increase in risk (SICR), impairment and default”.

12-month ECL is the portion of lifetime ECL that results from default events on a financial instrument that are possible within the 12 months after the reporting date.

Lifetime ECL and 12-month ECL are calculated on individual or collective bases according to the nature of the portfolio of financial instruments. The Bank’s policy to group the financial assets measured on a collective basis are explained in note 52.1.1 sections “Customers analyzed on a collective basis” and “Customers analyzed on an individual basis”.

The Bank adopted a policy to assess, at the end of each reporting period, whether there was a significant increase in the credit risk of a financial instrument since initial recognition considering the change in risk that the default may occur during the remaining life of a financial instrument. This is further explained in note 52.1.1 section “Definitions of significant increase in risk (SICR), impairment and default”.

According to the aforementioned process, the Bank groups its financial instruments into Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3, also covering purchased or originated financial instruments that are credit impaired, as described below:

•

Stage 1: When financial instruments are recognized for the first time, the Bank recognizes a loss allowance according to 12-month ECL. Stage 1-financial instruments also include credit lines in which credit risk improved within the parameters established by the Bank and the financial instrument was reclassified to another stage.

•

Stage 2: When a financial instrument shows a SICR since initial recognition, the Bank books a loss allowance for lifetime ECL. Stage 2-financial instruments also include credit lines in which credit risk improved within the parameters established by the Bank and the financial instrument was reclassified to Stage 3.

•

Stage 3: Financial instruments which credit value is impaired (as described in note 52.1.1 section “Definitions of significant increase in risk (SICR), impairment and default”.) The Bank books a loss allowance for lifetime ECL.

•

Purchased or originated financial instruments that are credit impaired: financial instruments that are credit impaired upon initial recognition. Purchased or originated financial instruments that are credit impaired are booked at fair value upon initial recognition and interest income is recognized subsequently at a credit-adjusted effective interest rate. The loss allowance of ECL is only recognized or reversed provided that there is a subsequent change in ECL. The Bank did not purchase or generate credit-impaired financial instruments.

The Bank reduces the carrying amount of the financial instruments which amount owed it does not expect to recover in part or in full. This is considered a (partial) derecognition of the financial instrument.

3.2.4.2

The calculation of ECL

The key parameters to calculating ECL are as follows:

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Probability of default (PD): It is an estimate of the probability of default during a certain time horizon. A default may occur only at a certain time during the period assessed if the credit line was not derecognized before and is still part of the portfolio. The concept of probability of default is explained in note 52.1.1 section “Probability of default (PD)”.

•

Exposure at default (EAD): It is an estimate of the exposure to a future default date considering the expected changes in exposure after reporting date, including the settlement of principal and interest, whether they are scheduled by the agreement or otherwise, the expected disbursements on committed credit lines and interest accrued on late payments. The exposure at default is explained in note 52.1.1 section “Exposure at default (EAD)”.

•

Loss given default (LGD): It is an estimate of the loss arising in the event of default in a certain term. It is based on the difference between contractual cash flows and cash flows expected by the lender, including the performance of a guarantee or credit improvements related to the loan. In general, it is expressed as a percentage of the exposure at default. Further information of LGD is included in note 52.1.1 section “Loss given default (LGD)”.

When ECL are estimated, the Bank calculates these parameters for each one of the three scenarios (base case, intermediate and downside) weighed based on the estimated likelihood of occurrence and discounts the amount resulting from multiplying the aforementioned parameters by the effective interest rate determined upon initial recognition.

For overdrafts which include both a loan and an unused loan commitment, ECL are calculated and disclosed with the loan. For loan commitments (including credit cards) and financial guarantee contracts, ECL are recognized in “Provisions”.

The method for calculating ECL is summarized below:

•

Stage 1: 12-month ECL are calculated as a portion of lifetime ECL, accounting for the ECL of financial instruments from default within the 12 months subsequent to year-end. The Bank calculates the allocation of 12-month ECL based on the expectation of default within 12 months after year-end. These expected 12-month probabilities of default are applied to an EAD and multiplied by the expected LGD and discounted to the original effective interest rate.

•

Stage 2: When a financial instrument shows a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the Bank books a loss allowance for lifetime ECL. The method is similar to the one explained above, including the use of different scenarios, but PD is estimated over the remaining life of the instrument. Expected cash shortfalls are discounted to the original effective interest rate.

•

Stage 3: For financial instruments considered credit-impaired, the Bank recognizes the ECL for the remaining life of these financial instruments. The method is similar to those used by Stage 2-financial instruments, with a PD set at 100%.

•

Loan commitments and credit cards: Upon estimating the lifetime ECL for loan commitments, the ECL are the present value of the difference between the cash flows owned to the bank and the expected cash flows if the loan is withdrawn during the 12

months or expected lifetime. The cash flows are discounted at the original effective interest rate of each transaction.

•

Guarantees and other commitments: The Bank’s liability under each guarantee is measured at the higher of the amount initially recognized less cumulative amortization recognized in the statement of income and the ECL provision. To such end, the Bank estimates the ECL based on the present value of the payments expected to be disbursed to the guarantee holder should the debtor fail to pay the debt. Cash flows are discounted by the risk-adjusted interest rate relevant to the disclosure. The ECL related to financial guarantee contracts are recognized in “Provisions”.

In all these scenarios, the ECL are adjusted on a forward-looking base, weighing the three probable macroeconomic scenarios, as explained in section 3.2.4.3 “Prospective information”.

3.2.4.3

Prospective information

To determine a loss allowance in the calculation of ECL, the impact of the main macroeconomic variables should be analyzed to adjust historical information to the current conditions and short-term prospects. To such end, different and probable macroeconomic scenarios (base case, favorable and downside) should be weighed upon using relevant variables in assessing credit risk (such as GDP growth, interest rate and CPI).

The inputs and models used for calculating ECL may not always capture all market characteristics as of the date of these consolidated financial statements. Consequently, the Bank may consider certain qualitative temporary adjustments to ensure that they are taken into account if they are material. Further information is included in note 52.1.2 “Prospective information used in ECL models”.

3.2.4.4

Debt instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

The ECL of the debt instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income does not reduce the carrying amount of these financial instruments in the statement of financial position, which remains at fair value. Instead, an amount equal to the correction of value from these assets measured at amortized cost is recognized in “Other comprehensive income” as a cumulative impairment amount with the related charge to income. Cumulative loss recognized in “Other comprehensive income” is reclassified to the statement of income when the assets are derecognized.

3.2.4.5

Credit cards and other revolving credit lines

In the case of credit cards and other revolving lines of credit, the Bank does not limit its exposure to expected losses to the contractual notice period, but rather calculates ECL over a period that reflects the Bank’s expectations of customer behaviors, their unused credit commitments, the probability of default and the Bank’s future risk mitigation expectations, which may include reducing or settling the lines of credit.

The interest rate used to discount the ECL for credit cards is based on the average effective interest rate that is expected to be charged over the expected period of exposure to these lines of credit. This estimate considers that some of these lines of credit may be settled every month fully and consequently no interest would be charged.

3.2.4.6

Write offs

Financial instruments are settled in part or in full after the first month in which the Bank has no reasonable expectations of recovering the financial instrument or part of the instrument. Should the amount to be settled be higher than the loss allowance for accumulated losses, the difference is considered an addition to the loss allowance that is then applied against the gross carrying amount. Any subsequent recovery is disclosed in the consolidated statement of income for the year of recovery in “Other operating income.”

3.2.4.7

Forborne and modified loans

The Bank considers a loan forborne when such modification is a result of the borrower’s present or expected financial difficulties. The renegotiation may include the extension of the payment terms and the agreement of new loan conditions. Once the conditions are renegotiated, the impairment is measured using the original effective interest rate as calculated before the conditions were amended. The Bank monitors forborne loans to ensure the continuity of future payments. Derecognition decisions and the classification between Stages 2 and 3 are determined on a case-by-case basis for the commercial portfolio and collectively for consumer portfolio. Should these procedures identify a loss related to a loan, it is disclosed and managed as an impaired Stage 3 forborne asset until it is collected or derecognized.

When the loan is renegotiated or modified but is not derecognized, the Bank also considers whether the assets should be classified in Stage 3. Once an asset is classified as renegotiated, it will continue in Stage 2 until it is collected in full or impaired (Stage 3).

If the modifications are substantial, the loan is derecognized and a new loan with different conditions is recognized.

3.2.4.8

Valuation of collaterals

To mitigate the risks of its financial instruments, the Bank seeks to use, when possible, collaterals. Collateral comes in various forms, such as cash, securities, letters of credit/guarantees, real estate, receivables, other non-financial assets and credit enhancements, such as netting arrangements. Collateral, except for attached assets, is not recorded in the Bank’s statement of financial position. However, the fair value of collateral affects the calculation of ECL in certain products and customers assessed on an individual basis. The assessment is usually made at least at beginning date and it is reassessed on a regular basis.

Whenever possible, the Bank uses active market data to assess the financial instruments maintained as collateral. Other financial instruments that do not have readily determinable market values are valued using internal methods. Non-financial collateral, such as real estate, is valued based on data provided by third parties, such as mortgage brokers.

3.2.4.9

Collateral repossessed

The Bank’s policy is to determine whether an attached asset can be best used internally or should be sold. Assets determined to be useful internally are transferred to their relevant asset category at the lower of their attached value or the carrying value of the original secured asset.

The assets for which selling is determined to be a better option are transferred to assets held for sale at their fair value (if financial assets) and fair value less cost of sales for non-financial assets at attachment date according to the Bank’s policy.

During the normal course of business, the Bank does not include in its portfolio the properties and other attached assets but rather uses external agents to recover the funds, generally through auctions, to settle the outstanding payable. Any surplus fund is reimbursed to the customer/debtor. Hence, residential properties under attachment proceedings are not booked in the balance sheet.

3.2.5

Financial liabilities

After initial recognition, certain financial liabilities were measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, except for derivatives that were measured at fair value through profit or loss. Interests were allocated in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest expense”.

Within other financial liabilities the Bank included guarantees granted and eventual liabilities, which must be disclosed in the notes to the financial statements, when the documents supporting such credit facilities are issued and are initially recognized at fair value of the commission received, in the statement of financial position. After initial recognition, the liability for each guarantee was recognized at the higher of the amortized commission and the best estimate of the disbursement required to settle any financial obligation arising as a result of the financial guarantee.

Any increase in the liabilities related to a financial guarantee was recognized as income. The commission received has been recognized as “Commissions income” in the consolidated statement of income, based on the amortization thereof following the straight-line method over the effective term of the financial guarantee granted.

3.2.6

Derivative financial instruments

Receivables and payables from forward transactions without delivery of underlying assets

It includes forward purchase, sale transactions of foreign currency without delivery of the traded underlying asset and put options. Such transactions were measured at the fair value of the contracts and were performed by the Bank for intermediation purposes on its own account. The originated income was allocated in the consolidated statement of income as “Net gain from measurement of financial instruments at fair value”.

Derecognition of financial assets and liabilities

A financial asset (or, if applicable, a part of a financial asset or a part of a group of similar financial assets) shall be derecognized when: (i) the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, or (ii) the Bank transfers the contractual rights to receive the cash flows of the financial asset or retains the contractual rights to receive the cash flows of the financial asset, but assumes a contractual obligation to pay the cash flows received immediately to a third party pursuant to a transfer agreement.

A transfer shall qualify for derecognition of the financial asset only if (i) the Bank has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset, or (ii) it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset, but has transferred the control of the financial asset, considering that the control is transferred if, and only if, the transferee has the practical ability to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party and is able to exercise that ability unilaterally and without needing to impose additional restrictions on the transfer.

If the Bank neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred asset, and has retained the control over it, the Bank shall continue to recognize such transferred asset to the extent to which it is exposed to changes in the value of the transferred asset.

The Bank derecognizes a loan when the terms and conditions have been renegotiated and if, substantially, it becomes a new loan, recognizing the difference for derecognition in profit or loss. If the modification does not generate substantially different cash flows, the modification does not result in derecognition of the loan. The Bank recalculates the gross carrying amount of the assets as present value of modified contractual cash flows, using for the discount the original EIR and recognizes profit or loss from modification as explained in section 3.2.4.7 “Forborne and modified loans”.

On the other hand, a financial liability is derecognized when the obligation specified in the relevant contract is discharged, cancelled or expires. When there is an exchange between an existing borrower and lender of debt instruments with substantially different terms, or the terms are substantially modified, such exchange or modification shall be accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability, recognizing the difference between the carrying amount of a financial liability extinguished or transferred to another party and the consideration paid, in the consolidated statement of income as “Other operating income”.

3.3

Leases

The Bank assesses at contract inception whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. That is, if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

3.3.1

The Bank as a lessee

The Bank applies a single recognition and measurement approach for all leases, except for short-term leases and leases of low-value assets, which payments are recognized as rent expense on a straight-line basis. The Bank recognizes lease liabilities to make lease payments and right-of-use assets representing the right to use the underlying assets.

•

Right-of-use assets

The Bank recognizes right-of-use assets at the commencement date of the lease. Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of lease liabilities recognized, initial direct costs incurred, and lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received. The right of use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of its estimated useful life and the lease term. Right-of-use assets are subject to impairment, in line with the Bank’s policy as described in section 3.10 of this note.

•

Lease liabilities

At the commencement date of the lease, the Bank recognizes lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be made over the lease term. The lease payments include fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable, variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, and amounts expected to be paid under residual value guarantees. The lease payments also include the exercise price of a purchase option reasonably certain to be exercised by the Bank and payments of penalties for terminating a lease, if the lease term reflects the Bank exercising the option to terminate. Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate are recognized as expense in the period on which the event or condition that triggers the payment occurs.

In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Bank uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the interest rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable. After the commencement date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments made. In addition, the carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term, a change in the in-substance fixed lease payments or a change in the assessment to purchase the underlying asset.

3.3.2

The Bank as a lessor

The Bank grants loans through financial leases, recognizing the current value of lease payments as a financial asset, which is registered in the consolidated statement of financial position in the item “loans and other financing”. The difference between the total lease receivables and the current value of financing is recognized as interest to be accrued. This income is recognized during the term of the lease using the EIR method, which reflects a constant rate of return and is recognized in the consolidated statement of income as “Interest income”. Losses originated for impairment are included in the consolidated statement of income as “Credit loss expense on financial assets”.

3.4

Business combinations

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, which is measured at acquisition date fair value, and the amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquired company, measured under IFRS.

The Bank determines that it has acquired a business when the acquired set of activities and assets include an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. The acquired process is considered substantive if it is critical to the ability to continue producing outputs, and the inputs acquired include an organized workforce with the necessary skills, knowledge, or experience to perform that process or it significantly contributes to the ability to continue producing outputs and is considered unique or scarce or cannot be replaced without significant cost, effort, or delay in the ability to continue producing outputs.

When the Bank acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as of the acquisition date.

Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer will be recognized at fair value at the acquisition date. Contingent consideration classified as equity is not remeasured and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity. Contingent consideration classified as an asset or liability that is a financial instrument and within the scope of IFRS 9, is measured at fair value with the changes in fair value recognized in the statement of profit or loss. Other contingent consideration that is not within the scope of IFRS 9 is measured at fair value at each reporting date with changes in fair value recognized in profit or loss.

Goodwill is initially measured at cost (being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount recognized for non-controlling interests and any previous interest held over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed). If the fair value of the net assets acquired is in excess of the aggregate consideration transferred, the Group re-assesses whether it has correctly identified all of the assets acquired and all of the liabilities assumed and reviews the procedures used to measure the amounts to be recognized at the acquisition date. If the reassessment still results in an excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over the aggregate consideration transferred, then the gain is recognized in profit or loss.

After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses as explained in section 3.10.

3.5

Investment in associates and joint arrangements

An associate is an entity over which the Bank has significant influence, i.e. the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of such controlled entity, but without having the control thereof.

A joint arrangement is an arrangement of which the Bank and other party or parties have joint control. Under IFRS 11 “Joint Arrangements”, investments in these arrangements are classified as joint ventures or joint operations depending on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor, regardless of the legal structure of the arrangement. A joint venture is an arrangement pursuant to which the parties having joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of such arrangement. A joint operation is an arrangement pursuant to which the parties having joint control of the arrangement have rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities, relating to the arrangement. The Bank has assessed the nature of its joint arrangements and determined that they are joint ventures.

These investments are accounted for using the equity method from the date on which they become an associate or a joint venture. On acquisition of the investment, any difference between the cost of the investment and the Entity’s share of the net fair value of the investee’s identifiable assets and liabilities are accounted: (i) as a goodwill, which is included in the carrying amount of the investment and is under impairment as explained in section 3.10; or (ii) any excess of the Entity’s share of the net fair value of the investee’s identifiable assets and liabilities over the cost of the investment is included as income. The Bank’s share in the profit or loss after the acquisition of its associates was accounted in the statement of income, and its share in other comprehensive income after the acquisition was accounted for in the consolidated statement of other comprehensive income. See also note 15.

3.6

Property, plant and equipment

The Bank chose the cost model for all kinds of assets accounted for in this accounting item. These assets were carried at their cost less any accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses, if applicable. The historical cost of acquisition includes all expenses directly attributable to the acquisition of the assets. Maintenance and repair costs were accounted for in the consolidated statement of income as incurred. Any replacement and significant improvement of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognized as an asset only when it is likely to produce any future economic benefits exceeding the return originally assessed for such asset.

Depreciation of the items of property, plant and equipment was assessed in proportion to the estimated months of useful life, depreciating completely the acquisition month of the assets and not the derecognition date. In addition, at least at each financial year-end, the Bank reviews if expectations regarding the useful life of each item of property, plant and equipment differ from previous estimates, in order to detect any material changes in useful life which, if confirmed, shall be adjusted applying the relevant correction to the depreciation of property, plant and equipment accounting item. Depreciation charges are recorded in the related statement of income as “Depreciation and amortization of fixed assets”.

The residual value of the assets, as a whole, does not exceed their recoverable amount.

3.7

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets acquired separately were initially measured at cost. After initial recognition, they were accounted for at cost less any accumulated depreciation (for those to which finite useful lives have been allocated) and any accumulated impairment losses, if applicable.

For internally generated intangible assets, only disbursements related to development are capitalized while the other disbursements are not capitalized and are recognized in the statement of income for the period in which such expenditure is incurred.

Useful lives of intangible assets may be finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their economic useful lives and are reviewed in order to determine whether they had any impairment loss to the extent there is any evidence that indicates that the intangible asset may be impaired. The period and method of amortization for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the financial year-end of each reporting period. Depreciation charges of intangible assets with finite useful lives are accounted for in the statement of income as “Depreciation and amortization of fixed assets”.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized and are subject to annual tests in order to determine whether they are impaired, either individually or as part of the cash-generating unit to which such intangible assets were allocated. The Bank has no intangible assets with indefinite useful lives.

The gain or loss arising from the derecognition of an intangible asset shall be determined as the difference between the net disposal proceeds, if any, and the carrying amount of the asset, and it shall be recognized in the statement of income when the asset is derecognized.

Development expenditure incurred in a specific project shall be recognized as intangible asset when the Bank can demonstrate all of the following:

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the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale,

•

its intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it,

•

how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits,

•

the availability of adequate resources to complete the development, and

•

its ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development.

After initial recognition of the development expenditure as an asset, such asset shall be carried at its cost less any accumulated amortization and any applicable accumulated impairment losses. Amortization shall begin when the development phase has been completed and the asset is available for use. The asset amortizes over the period in which the asset is expected to generate future benefits. Amortization is accounted for in the statement of income as “Depreciation and amortization of fixed assets”. During the development phase, the asset is subject to annual tests to determine whether there is any impairment loss.

3.8

Investment Property

The Bank included certain real properties that holds for undetermined future use, which were recognized pursuant to IAS 40 “Investment Property”.

For this kind of property, the Bank chose the cost model as described in note 3.6 Property, plant and equipment.

An investment property is derecognized on disposal or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefits are expected from its disposal. The difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is recognized in the consolidated statement of income in the period of the retirement or disposal as “Other operating income”.

An entity shall transfer a property to, or from, investment property when, and only when, there is a change in use. For a transfer from investment property to an item of property, plant and equipment, the property’s deemed cost for subsequent accounting is its fair value on the date of change in use. If an item of property, plant and equipment becomes an investment property, the Bank recognizes the asset up to the date of change in use in accordance with the policy established for property, plant and equipment.

3.9

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

The Bank reclassifies in this category non-current assets of which the carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. The asset (or disposal group) must be available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets (or disposal groups) and its sale must be highly probable.

Non-current assets classified as held for sale are measured, when they are reclassified to this category, at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell and are disclosed in a separate item in the statement of financial position. Once these assets are classified as held for sale, depreciation and amortization ceased.

Profit or loss generated in the sale of assets held for sale is recorded in the consolidated statement of income as “Other operating income”.

3.10

Impairment of Non-financial Assets

The Bank evaluates, at least at each fiscal year-end, whether there are any events or changes in the circumstances that may indicate the impairment of non-financial assets or whether there is any evidence that a non-financial asset may be impaired.

When there is any evidence or when an annual impairment test is required for an asset, the Bank shall estimate the recoverable amount of such asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount, such asset is deemed impaired and its carrying amount shall be reduced to its recoverable amount. As of the date of the issuance of these consolidated financial statements, there is no evidence of impairment of non-financial assets.

3.11

Provisions

The Bank recognizes a provision if and only if the following circumstances are met: (a) the Bank has a present obligation as a result of a past event; (b) it is probable (i.e. it is more likely than not) that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation; and (c) a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

In order to determine the amount of provisions, the risks and uncertainties were considered taking into account the opinion of independent and internal legal advisors of the Bank. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provisions shall be discounted using a pre-tax rate that reflects if applicable, current risks specific to the liability. When the discount is recognized, the effect of the provision derived from the lapse of time is accounted for as “Interest expense” in the statement of income. Based on the analysis carried out, the Bank recognized as provision the amount of the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the end of each fiscal year.

The provisions accounted for by the Bank are reviewed at the end of each reporting period or fiscal year, as applicable, and adjusted to reflect the current best available estimate. In addition, provisions are recognized with specific allocation to be used only for the expenditures for which they were originally recognized.

In the event: a) the obligation is possible; or b) it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required for the Bank to settle the obligation; or c) the amount of the obligation cannot be estimated reliably, the contingent liability shall not be recognized and shall be disclosed in notes. Nevertheless, when the possibility of an outflow of resources is remote, no disclosures shall be made.

3.12

Recognition of income and expenses

The Bank recognized its streams of income and expenses as is explained below, in accordance with IFRS 9 and 15. The majority of Bank’s income and expenses are related to financial instruments, in general recorded using the effective interest method. The remaining income and expenses are recorded depending on the period in which the performance obligation is satisfied. In notes 30 to 33 are disclosed the streams and amounts for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019.

3.12.1.

Revenue from interest income and interest expense

Revenue from interest received and expenses for interest paid were recognized according to their accrual period, applying the effective interest method, which is explained in section “Financial assets at amortized cost – Effective interest method”.

Revenue from interest received includes the return on fixed income investments and negotiable instruments, as well as the discount and premium on financial instruments.

Bond coupons were recognized at the time they were declared.

3.12.2.

Loan commissions

Commission charges and direct incremental costs related with the granting of financing facilities were deferred and recognized adjusting the EIR thereof.

3.12.3.

Service commissions

The Bank earns service commissions from a diverse range of financial services it provides to its customers. Service commissions are recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Bank expects to be entitled in exchange for providing the services.

The performance obligation, as well as the timing of their satisfaction, are identified, and determined, at the inception date of the contract.

The Bank has generally concluded that it is the principal in its revenue arrangement because it typically controls the services before transferring them to customers.

3.12.3.1

Service commissions where performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time

Services provided where the Bank’s performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time are recognized once control of the services is transferred to the customer. This is typically on completion of the underlying transaction or service or, for fees or components of fees that are linked to a certain performance, after fulfilling the corresponding performance criteria.

The Bank typically has a single performance obligation with respect to these services, which is to successfully complete the transaction specified in the contract.

3.12.3.2

Service commissions where performance obligations are satisfied over certain period of time

Performance obligations satisfied over time are where the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the Bank’s performance as the Bank performs.

3.12.4.

Non-financial revenue and expenses

These items are recognized according to the recognition criteria established in the Conceptual Framework, e.g. the requirement that revenues and expenses should be accrued.

3.13

Customer Loyalty Program

The loyalty program offered by the Bank consists in accumulating points generated by purchases made with the credit cards, which can be exchanged by any reward (including, among other offers, products, benefits and awards) available in the program platform.

The Bank concluded that the rewards to be granted originate a separate performance obligation. Therefore, at the end of each fiscal year, the Bank recognized a provision for the rewards to be granted in “Other financial liabilities”.

Based on the variables that the Bank takes into account in order to estimate the fair value of the points granted to customers (and the relation thereof with the exchange of the reward), it is worth mentioning that such estimates are subject to a significant level of uncertainty (and variation) that should be considered. These considerations are described in detail in the section “Accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions” of this note.

3.14

Income Tax (see note 29)

Tax expense (tax income) comprises current tax expense (current tax income) and deferred tax expense (deferred tax income). This tax is accounted in the consolidated statement of income, except in the case of accounting items that are to be recognized directly in the consolidated statements of other comprehensive income. In this case, each accounting item is presented before assessing their impact on Income Tax, which is accounted for in the relevant accounting item.

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Current income tax: the consolidated current income tax expense is the sum of the income tax expenses of the different entities that compose the Group (see note 1), which were assessed, in each case, by applying the tax rate to taxable income, in accordance with Income Tax Law, or equivalent rule or provision, of the countries in which any subsidiary operates.

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Deferred income tax: it is assessed based on the separate financial statements of the Bank and of each of its subsidiaries and reflects the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the statement of financial position and its tax base. Assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rate that is expected to be applied to taxable income in the years in which these differences are expected to be settled or recovered. The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets reflects the tax consequences that will follow from the manner in which the Bank and its subsidiaries expect, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of their assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured by their nominal figures, without discount, the tax rates that are expected to be applied in the fiscal year in which the asset shall be realized or the liability shall be settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized when it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference can be utilized.

3.15

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share shall be calculated by dividing Net profit attributable to parent’s shareholders of the Bank by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the fiscal year. See also note 42.

3.16

Fiduciary activities and investment management

The Bank renders custody, administration, investment management and advisory services to third parties that originate the holding or placement of assets in the name of such third parties. These assets and income on them are not included in these consolidated financial statements, since they are not owned by the Bank. The commissions derived from these activities are accounted for as “Commissions income” in the consolidated statement of income. See also notes 45, 46 and 49.

Accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires the Bank’s Management to consider significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions that impact on the reported assets and liabilities, income, revenues and expenses, as well as the assessment and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, as of the end of the fiscal year. The Bank’s reported amounts are based on the best estimate regarding the probability of occurrence of different future events and, therefore, the uncertainties associated with the estimates and assumptions made by the Bank’s Management may drive in the future to final amounts that may differ from those estimates and may require material adjustments to the reported amounts of the affected assets and liabilities.

In certain cases, the financial statements prepared in accordance IFRS, require that the assets and liabilities to be recognized and/or presented at their fair value. The fair value is the amount at which an asset can be exchanged, or at which a liability can be settled, in mutual independent terms and conditions between participants of the principal market (or most advantageous market) duly informed and willing to transact in an orderly and current transaction. When prices in active markets are available, the Bank has used them as basis for valuation. When prices in active markets are not available, the Bank estimates those values as values based on the best available information, including the use of models and other assessment techniques (for additional information regarding fair value estimates see note 13).

In estimating accrued taxes, the Bank assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate tax treatment considering statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance in the context of the tax position. Because of the complexity of tax laws and regulations, interpretation can be difficult and subject to legal judgment. It is possible that others, given the same information, may reach different reasonable conclusions regarding the estimated amounts of accrued taxes (for additional information regarding income tax see note 29).

In the normal course of business, the Bank is a party to lawsuits of various types. In note 50 contingent liabilities are disclosed with respect to existing or potential claims, lawsuits and other legal proceedings, and is booked an accrual for litigation when it is probable that future costs will be incurred and these costs can be reasonably estimated.

As to the customer loyalty program, the Bank estimates the fair value of the points awarded to customers under the “Macropremia” program by applying statistics techniques. The data that feed the models include assumptions regarding exchange percentages, the product combinations available for exchange in the future and customers’ preferences.

Additionally, the measurement of impairment losses under IFRS 9 across all categories of financial instruments requires judgement, in particular, the estimation of the amount and timing of future cash flows and collateral values when determining impairment losses and the assessment of a significant increase in credit risk. These estimates are driven by a number of factors, changes that can result in different levels of allowances (for additional information regarding impairment losses under IFRS 9, see notes 3.2.4 and 52.1.1).

New pronouncements

The new and amended standards and interpretation that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements are disclosed below. The Bank intends to adopt these standards, if applicable, when they become effective.

Amendments to IFRS 3 - Reference to the Conceptual Framework: the amendments are intended to replace a reference to a previous version of the IASB’s Conceptual Framework with a reference to the current version issued in March 2018 without significantly changing its requirements. The amendments add an exception to the recognition principle of IFRS 3 to avoid the issue of potential ‘day 2’ gains or losses arising for liabilities and contingent liabilities that would be within the scope of IAS 37 “Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets” or IFRIC 21 “Levies”, if incurred separately. The exception requires entities to apply the criteria in IAS 37 or IFRIC 21, respectively, instead of the Conceptual Framework, to determine whether a present obligation exists at the acquisition date. At the same time, the amendments add a new paragraph to IFRS 3 to clarify that contingent assets do not qualify for recognition at the acquisition date. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2022. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

consoli

dated

financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 16 - Property, Plant and Equipment (PP&E): proceeds before Intended Use. The amendment prohibits entities to deduct from the cost of an item of PP&E any proceeds of the sale of items produced while bringing that asset to the location and under the conditions required to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Instead, an entity recognizes the proceeds from selling such items, and the costs of producing those items, in profit or loss. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2022. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

consolidated

financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 37 - Onerous Contracts – Costs of Fulfilling a Contract: the IASB issued amendments to IAS 37 to specify which costs an entity needs to include when assessing whether a contract is onerous or loss-making. The amendments apply a ‘directly related cost approach’. The costs that relate directly to a contract to provide goods or services include both incremental costs and an allocation of costs directly related to contract. The impact of these amendments on entities that previously applied the incremental cost approach is that they will see provisions increase to reflect the inclusion of costs related directly to contract activities, whilst entities that previously recognized contract loss provisions using the guidance from the former standard, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, will be required to exclude the allocation of indirect overheads from their provisions. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2022. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

consolidated

financial statements.

Annual improvement cycle (2018-2020): the following is a summary of the amendments from the 2018-2020 annual improvements cycle:

•

IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting – Subsidiary as a first-time adopter: the amendment permits a subsidiary that elects to apply paragraph D16(a) of IFRS 1 to measure cumulative translation differences using the amounts reported by the parent, based on the parent’s date of transition to IFRS. This amendment is also applied to an associate or joint venture that elects to apply paragraph D16(a) of IFRS 1. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2022.

•

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments Fees in the ’10 per cent’ test for derecognition of financial liabilities: the amendment clarifies the fees that an entity includes when assessing whether the terms of a new or modified financial liability are substantially different from the terms of the original financial liability. These fees include only those paid or received between the borrower and the lender, including fees paid or received by either the borrower or lender on the other’s behalf. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2022.

•

IFRS 16 “Leases” Illustrative examples - Lease incentives: the amendment removes the Example 13 accompanying IFRS 16 of payments from the lessor relating to leasehold improvements. This removes potential confusion regarding the treatment of lease incentives when applying IFRS 16.

The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

cons

olidated

financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements” and IFRS Practice Statement 2 – Disclosures to accounting policies: the amendments require that an entity discloses its material accounting policies, instead of its significant accounting policies. Further amendments explain how an entity can identify a material accounting policies and examples of when an accounting policy likely. Therefore, a guidance with explanations and examples denominated “four-step materiality process” was developed. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2023. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

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dated

financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 8 “Accounting policies, changes in accounting estimates and Errors” – Definition of Accounting Estimates: the amendments clarify the distinction between changes in accounting estimates and changes in accounting policies and the correction of errors. Also, they clarify how entities use measurement techniques and inputs to develop accounting estimates. The amended standard clarifies that the effects on an accounting estimate of a change in an input or a change in a measurement technique are changes in accounting estimates if they do not result from the correction of prior period errors. The previous definition of a change in accounting estimate specified that changes in accounting estimates may result from new information or new developments. Therefore, such changes are not corrections of errors. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2023. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the

consolidated

financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 12 “Income Tax” – Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction: the IASB issued amendments to IAS 12, which narrow the scope of the initial recognition exception under IAS 12, so that it no longer applies to transactions that give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences. The amendments clarify that where payments that settle a liability are deductible for tax purposes, it is a matter of professional judgement (having considered the applicable tax law) whether such deductions are attributable for tax purposes to the liability recognized in the financial statements (and interest expense) or to the related asset component (and interest expense). Professional judgement is important in determining whether any temporary differences exist on initial recognition of the asset and liability. This amendment is applicable as of January 1, 2023. The Bank does not expect this standard to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.