Halkbank statement on 'loans to criminal organizations': Preparing to initiate legal action

Türkiye Halk Bankası A.Ş. has issued a statement regarding allegations in the media that it provided loans to criminal organizations.

The statement sent by Halkbank to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP) is as follows:

"Our special situation disclosure dated 20.11.2023

"In recent days, in some media publications and social media accounts; the news and rumors claiming that our Bank has extended loans to companies and individuals alleged to be connected to criminal organizations in violation of regulations are entirely untrue, are of a nature that undermines the trust and reputation of our Bank, misleads the public and investors, affects share value, and is based on personal approaches and interpretations. A statement was also made regarding the subject via the Public Disclosure Platform on November 20, 2023.

"PERSONAL LOAN USE IS OUT OF THE QUESTION"

Our Bank acts in accordance with the Banking Law and related regulations in the allocation, collateralization, and disbursement of loans. It is out of the question for any loan to be extended to any company or individual connected to a criminal organization in violation of regulations.

The making of unfair news and comments that would undermine the trust and reputation of our Bank constitutes a violation of the provisions of Article 74 of the Banking Law titled 'Protection of Reputation,' and our legal rights will be exercised against those who make unfair news and comments. Submitted for the information of the public and investors."