Rabobank Group

2-4-2009 | Other news

Every year, Rabobank Investor Relations holds an annual Swiss Investor meeting in Zürich and Geneva, Switzerland. CFO Bert Bruggink presented the Rabobank 2008 results and the outlook for 2009, while Adrie Zwanenberg explained investment opportunities in water.

In Switzerland, Chief Financial Officer Bert Bruggink presented to over 100 Swiss institutional investors where many wondered how Rabobank stayed above water in the current climate. Bruggink pointed out the varying effects of the financial crisis and economic downturn on Rabobank and tackled tough topics like structured credit portfolios and increases in bad debt expenses. 

“We are proud to present a substantial net profit over 2008 and an excellent position in liquidity and solvency. Investors understand that we have a consistent strategy with a strong and successful home base in the Netherlands and they like our well-balanced balance sheet ,” said CFO Bruggink. 

‘Water: Thirsty for Investments’ 
After presentations on dairy, biofuels and soft commodities in recent years, this time water was the investor’s topic in the Swiss meetings. ‘Water: Thirsty for Investments’ was presented by Adrie Zwanenberg, a specialist in Food and Agribusiness for Investor Relations. 

The subject of water fits in well with Rabobank investor meetings, explained Zwanenberg. “Awareness about increasing water scarcity is growing around the globe. Water affects agriculture, industry and households. The need for more efficient water use and improved irrigation systems is crucial for Rabobank’s position as the world’s most important financier of agriculture.”

Zwanenberg added, “And, of course, investors want to hear about investment opportunities. For example, the Water Funds of Sarasin and Robeco’s Sustainable Asset Management (SAM) are existing water investment opportunities in Rabobank subsidiaries.”

Investor Relations roadshow
Frederik Hoek, Head of Investor Relations said, “There is an overwhelming interest in the Rabobank credit story. Investors are very positive about the bank’s performance and appreciate presentations on subjects, typical for Rabobank’s business, like water this year.” 

Investor Relations organises the annual roadshow and presentations because of Switzerland’s significant role in Rabobank’s long term funding. Since the release of the annual results on 5 March, investor relations has intensified their road show schedule. They have taken the investor roadshow to the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Middle East, the United States and Switzerland. Institutional investors who are interested in a Rabobank presentation can contact Rabobank’s Investor Relations department.