The international Fitch Ratings company has reaffirmed the ratings of Parex banka. The long-term rating of bank is at “RD” level, the short-term rating is at “RD”, the individual rating is at “F” level, and the support rating is at the level of “5”. The affirmation of the rating reflects the extension of deposit restrictions imposed on the bank by the Latvian banking regulator. At the same time, the agency notes that the restrictions, which were imposed on the bank in December 2008, gradually have been softened, as well as considerable reduction in the amount of the restricted funds. Fitch Ratings considers as positive the government support provided to the bank, as well as the fact that the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has become a shareholder of the bank. The agency also notes that the bank's operations are affected by losses, the quality of assets, the need for additional capital, and deleveraging and decline in non-resident deposits. At the same time, deposits made by residents are deemed to be more stable. Although remains weak, the bank's liquidity continues to improve. Upward pressure on the long-term rating could arise from removal of deposit restriction and/or from successful restructuring of Parex banka. About Parex banka: Founded in 1992, Parex banka currently employs some 1 900 people at branches all over Latvia and offers universal banking services throughout the Baltic region, the CIS and other European nations such as Germany, Switzerland and Sweden. Parex Group companies operate across the banking, finance, leasing, asset management and life insurance sectors. Parex banka has signed up to the European Code of Conduct on housing loans. For more information: Inga Saleniece, acting director Corporate Communications Department Telephone: +371 67778870 or +371 26564629 E-mail: pr@parex.lv