GTB''s inherent strengths outweigh its NPAs: Gande

Admitting that the bank suffers serious weaknesses such as higher NPAs and strained capital adequacy, he said, "The bank's inherent strengths still overweigh its NPAs and losses. While NPAs and losses are clearly reflected in the balance sheet, unfortunately, the franchisee value can not be reflected."

Stating that the current customer base of nearly one million was scalable to a level of at least three million over the next five years, Gande said the bank can generate business volumes of at least Rs 4,000 crore with a capital infusion in the range of Rs 500 crore. GTB currently has a delivery channel network of 104 branches and 275 ATMs in 34 cities across the country.

Equipped with a trained force of 1,300 plus employees, the bank has nearly one million customers.

The bank also has strong exposure to developed States of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu with more than 70 per cent of branches in seven cities and four metros.

"It takes ages for a bank to build such a large quality customer base, which is well spread across the country. The quality and spread of our retail and corporate customer base is one of the best in the industry. We have put in place strong internal systems and procedures which will make sure that the problems of the past are not recurred," Gande said.

"People, procedures and systems are ready to ensure a huge growth in business once necessary capital is induced. The existing infrastructure can support multi-fold growth in business with minimal investments. The bank is confident that its inherent strengths will definitely attract the prospective investors," Gande said.