AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON MAY 15, 2019APRIL 23, 2021

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 20–F

(Mark One)

[   ]

Registration Statement pursuant to Section 12(b) or (g) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or

or

[X]

Annual Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 or

for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020

or

[   ]

Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or

or

[   ]

Shell Company Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Commission File Number 000-30852

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

GALICIA FINANCIAL GROUP

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

REPUBLIC OF ARGENTINA

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 430, 25th floor

C1038 AAJ-Buenos Aires, Argentina

(Address of principal executive offices)

Pedro A. Richards,Bruno Folino, Chief ExecutiveFinancial Officer

Tel: 54 11 4 343 7528 / Fax: 54 11 4 331 9183, prichards@gfgsa.combfolino@gfgsa.com

Perón 430, 25° Piso C1038AAJ Buenos Aires ARGENTINA

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

American Depositary Shares, each representing ten Class B ordinary Shares

Name of each exchange on which registered

Nasdaq Capital Market

Title of each class

Class B Ordinary Shares, Ps.1.00 par value, (not for trading but only in connection with the listing of the American Depositary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

 

Title ofof each classclass

Trading

Symbol(s)

Trading

Symbol(s)

NameName of each exchange each exchange

on which registeredwhich registered

American Depositary Shares, each representing the

right to receive ten ordinary shares, par value

Ps.1.00 per share New York Stock Exchange

GGAL

NASDAQ

Ordinary shares, par value Ps.1.00 per share*

GGALNASDAQ

*

GGAL

NASDAQNot for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares representing such ordinary shares on the NASDAQ.

* Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares representing such ordinary shares on the NASDAQ.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:

 

Class A Ordinary Shares, Ps.1.00 par value

281,221,650

Class B Ordinary Shares, Ps.1.00 par value

1,145,542,947

1,193,470,441

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  [X]    No  [  ]

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    Yes  [  ]    No  [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  [X]    No  [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes  [X]    No  [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer [X]

Accelerated filer [  ]

Non-accelerated filer [  ]

Emerging growth company [  ]

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards † provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  [  ]

 

The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the Financial Accounting Standards Board toregistered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.

audit report.  ☒

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP  ☐International Financial Reporting StandardsOther  ☐

U.S. GAAP  [  ]

International Financial Reporting Standards

As issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  [X]

Other  [ ]

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17 [  ] Item 18 [  ]

Item 17  ☐             Item 18  ☐

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  [  ]    No  [X]

 

 

 


Table of ContentsTABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1

3

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

2

4

PART I

4

6

Item 1.

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

4

6

Item 2.

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

4

6

Item 3.

Key Information

4

6

A. Selected Financial Data

4

6

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

8

10

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

9

11

D. Risk Factors

9

11

Item 4.

Information on the Company

24

29

A. History and Development of the Company

24

29

B. Business Overview

31

38

C. Organizational Structure

95

100

D. Property, Plants and Equipment

96

101

Item 4A.

Unresolved Staff Comments

96

102

Item 5.

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

96

102

A. Operating Results

96

102

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

125

140

C. Research and Development, patents and Licenses

148

D. Trend Information

148

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

131

148

F. Contractual Obligations

131

149

G. Safe Harbor

131

149

Item 6

6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

132

149

Item 7.

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

147

165

A. Major Shareholders

147

165

B. Related Party Transactions

148

166

C. Interest of Experts and Counsel

167

Item 8.

Financial Information

150

168

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

150

168

B. Significant Changes

153

171

Item 9.

The Offer and Listing

153

171

Item 10.

Additional Information

156

173

A. Share Capital.

173

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

156

173

C. Material Contracts

163

180

D. Exchange Controls

163

180

E. Taxation

163

180

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

188

G. Statement by Experts.

188

H. Documents on Display

171

189

I. Subsidiary Information

189

Item 11.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

171

189

Item 12.

Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities

179

196

A. Debt Securities

196

B. Warrants and Rights

196

C. Other Securities

196

D. American Depositary Shares

179

196

PART II

181

198

Item 13.

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

181

198

Item 14.

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

181

198

Item 15.

Controls and Procedures

181

198

Item 16A.

Audit Committee Financial Expert

182

199

Item 16B.

Code of Ethics

182

199

Item 16C.

Principal Accountants’ Fees and Services

182

199

Item 16D.

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

183

200

Item 16E.

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

183

200

Item 16F.

Change in Registrant’s Certifying AccountantAccountant.

183

200

Item 16G.

Corporate Governance

183

200

Item 16H.

Mine Safety Disclosure

183

200

PART III

184

Item 17.

Financial Statements

184

201

Item 18.

Financial Statements

184

201

Item 19.

Exhibits

185

202


PRESENTATION OF FINANCIALFINANCIAL INFORMATION

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. (“Grupo Financiero Galicia”,“Grupo “Grupo Galicia”, “GFG” or the “Company”) is a financial services holding company incorporated in Argentina and is one of Argentina’s largest financial services groups. In this annual report, references to “we”, “our”, and “us” are to Grupo Financiero Galicia and its consolidated subsidiaries, except where otherwise noted. Our consolidated financial statements consolidate the accounts of the following companies:

Grupo Financiero Galicia;

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. (“Banco Galicia” or the Bank”“Bank”), our largest subsidiary, consolidated with (i) Tarjetas Regionales S.A. (“Tarjetas Regionales”) and its operating subsidiaries, until December 31, 2017 (effective January 1, 2018, Tarjetas Regionales S.A. was transferred to be an operating subsidiary of Grupo Financiero Galicia), (ii) Tarjetas del Mar S.A.Inviu S.A.U. (“Tarjetas del Mar”Inviu” formerly known as Galicia Valores S.A.U.) until MarchAugust 31, 20172019 (effective AprilSeptember 1, 2017 Tarjetas del Mar2019, Inviu was sold)sold to Grupo Financiero Galicia and transferred to IGAM LLC), and (iii) Galicia Valores S.A., (iv) Fideicomiso Financiero Galtrust ISaturno Créditos until December 31, 2017 and (v) Fideicomiso Saturno Créditos;2018;

Tarjetas Regionales S.A. (“Tarjetas Regionales”) and its subsidiaries (which has been reported on a consolidated basis with Grupo Financiero Galicia since January 1, 2018);

Sudamericana Holding S.A. (“Sudamericana”) and its subsidiaries;

Galicia Warrants S.A. (“Galicia Warrants”);

Net Investment S.A. (“Net Investment”) (liquidated as of December 31, 2017); and

Galicia Administradora de Fondos.Fondos S.A. (“Galicia Administradora de Fondos” or “Fima”);

IGAM LLC (“IGAM”) and its subsidiaries; and

Galicia Securities S.A. (“Galicia Securities”).

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance and in compliance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) issued by the International Financial Reporting Standards Board (“IASB”) and the interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee. IFRS in force as of the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 20182020, 2019 and 20172018 have been applied. Grupo Galicia has applied IFRS for the first time for the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2018 (the transition date being January 1, 2017). We maintain our financial books and records in Argentine Pesos and prepare our financial statements in conformity with IFRS, as issued by the IASB, effective as of the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2018. Grupo Galicia has also adjusted its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 in accordance with IFRS to serve as a comparative basis for the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018. Grupo Galicia’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 have been prepared in accordance with IFRS 1 “First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards”.

As of July 1, 2018, Argentina qualified as a hyperinflationary economy for accounting purposes. Grupo Galicia’s financial statements whose functional currency is the Argentine peso and its financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies as if the Argentine economy had always been hyperinflationary. The financial position and results of operations as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and for the yearyears ended December 31, 20182020, 2019 and 20172018 are reflected in terms of current purchasing power using the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) as of December 31, 2018.2020.

In this annual report, references to “US$” and “Dollars” are to United States Dollars and references to “Ps.” or “Pesos” are to Argentine Pesos. The exchange rate used in translating Pesos into Dollars and used in calculating the convenience translations included in the following tables is the “Reference Exchange Rate” that is published by the Argentine Central Bank (commonly referred to as “BCRA” based on its Spanish acronym) and that was Ps.37.8083Ps.84.1450, Ps.59.8950 and Ps.18.7742Ps.37.8083 per US$1.00 as of December 31, 20182020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively. The exchange rate translations contained in this annual report should not be construed as representations that the stated Peso amounts actually represent or have been or could be converted into Dollars at the rates indicated or at any other rate.


Our fiscal year ends on December 31, and references in this annual report to any specific fiscal year are to the twelve-month period ended December 31 of such year.

Unless otherwise indicated, all information regarding deposit and loan market shares and other financial industry information has been derived from information published by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, which is not adjusted according to the IAS 29.

We have expressed all amounts in millions of Pesos, except percentages, ratios, multiples and per-share data.

Certain figures included in this annual report have been rounded for purposes of presentation. Percentage figures included in this annual report have not been calculated on the basis of such rounded figures but rather on the basis of such amounts prior to rounding. For this reason, percentage amounts in this annual report may vary from those obtained by performing the same calculations using the figures in the financial statements.figures. Certain numerical figures shown as totals in some tables may not be an arithmetic aggregation of the figures that preceded them due to rounding.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This annual report contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including, in particular, statements about our plans, strategies and prospects under the captions Item 4. “Information on the Company”-A.HistoryHistory and Development of the Company”-“Capital Investments and Divestitures,” Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”-A.“Operating Results-Principal Trends” and B.“Liquidity and Capital Resources.” All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this annual report (including statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy, budgets, projected costs and management’s plans and objectives for future operations) are forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of such words as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue” or other similar terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be provided with respect to these statements. Because these statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to:

changes in Argentine government regulations applicable to financial institutions, including tax regulations and changes in or failures to comply with banking or other regulations;

changes in general political, legal, social or other conditions in Argentina, Latin America or abroad;other countries or regions;

fluctuationschanges in the Argentine ratemacroeconomic situation at the regional, national or international levels, and the influence of inflation, including hyperinflation;these changes on the microeconomic conditions of the financial markets in Argentina;

changes in capital markets in general that may affect policies or attitudes toward lending to Argentina or Argentine companies, including expected or unexpected turbulence or volatility in domestic or international financial markets;

financial difficulties of the Argentine government (“Government”) and its ability (or inability) to reach to an agreement to restructure or rollover its outstanding debt that is held by international credit entities;

changes in Government regulations applicable to financial institutions, including tax regulations and changes in or failures to comply with banking or other regulations;

volatility of the macroeconomic situation at the regional, national or international levels,Peso and the influenceexchange rates between the Peso and foreign currencies;

fluctuations in the Argentine rate of these changes on the microeconomic conditions of the financial markets in Argentina;inflation, including hyperinflation;

increased competition in the banking, financial services, credit card services, insurance, asset management, mutual funds and related industries;

changes in interest rates which may, among other things, adversely affect margins;Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries’ inability to sustain or improve their performance;

a loss of market share by any of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s main businesses;

a change in the credit cycle, increased borrower defaults and/or a decrease in the fees charged to clients;

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries’ inability to sustain or improve their performance;


 

Banco Galicia’s inability to obtain additional debt or equity financing on attractive conditions or at all, which may limit its ability to fund existing operations and to finance new activities;

technological changes and changes in Banco Galicia’s ability to implement new technologies;

changes in the saving and consumption habits of its customers and other structural changes in the general demand for financial products, such as those offered by Banco Galicia;

possiblechanges in interest rates which may, among other things, adversely affect margins;

Banco Galicia’s inability to obtain additional debt or equity financing on attractive conditions or at all, which may limit its ability to fund existing operations and to finance new activities;

technological changes and changes in Banco Galicia’s ability to implement new technologies;

impact of COVID-19 (or other future outbreaks, epidemics or pandemics) on the global, regional and national economy, on financial difficultiesactivity on global trade -both in terms of volumes and prices-, and on the Company’s ability to recover from the negative effects of the Argentine government;pandemic (or other future outbreak);

volatility of the Peso and the exchange rates between the Peso and foreign currencies;

designation of Argentina as a hyperinflationary economy; and

other factors discussed under Item 3. “Key Information” - D.“Risk Factors” in this annual report.

You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date that they were made. Moreover, you should consider these cautionary statements in connection with any written or oral forward-looking statements that we may issue in the future. We do not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements after completion of this annual report to reflect later events or circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

In light of the risks and uncertainties described above, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this annual report might not occur and are not guarantees of future performance.

PART I

 



PART I

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
Item 1.

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Not applicable.

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Item 2.

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Not applicable.

Item 3. Key Information

Item 3.

Key Information

A. Selected Financial Data

The following table presents summary historical financial and other information about us as of the dates and for the periods indicated.

The selected consolidated financial information regarding statement of financial position as of December 31, 2018,2020 and December 31, 2017,2019, and January 1, 2017 andthe financial information regarding the statement of income for the fiscal years ended December 31, 20182020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.report.

The selected consolidated financial information regarding statement of financial position as of December 31, 2018, as of December 31, 2017 and as of December 31, 2016 and the financial information regarding the statement of income for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this annual report.

You should read this data in conjunction with Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.

The tables included below have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.



 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except as noted)

 

Consolidated Income Statement In Accordance with IFRS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income from Interest

 

 

33,364

 

 

 

29,874

 

Net Fee Income

 

 

20,238

 

 

 

22,146

 

Net Income from Financial Instruments

 

 

17,353

 

 

 

8,461

 

Loan and Other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

(16,300

)

 

 

(7,294

)

Net Operating Income

 

 

73,094

 

 

 

68,978

 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

 

 

(18,064

)

 

 

(6,823

)

Operating Income

 

 

3,374

 

 

 

14,598

 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

 

(6,913

)

 

 

(7,319

)

(Loss) / Gain for the Year Attributable to GFG

 

 

(3,466

)

 

 

6,794

 

Other Comprehensive Income

 

 

(87

)

 

 

(435

)

Total Comprehensive Loss Attributable to GFG

 

 

(3,553

)

 

 

6,359

 

Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the year

 

 

1,427

 

 

 

1,427

 

Basic Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

 

 

(2.43

)

 

 

4.76

 

Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

 

 

(2.43

)

 

 

4.76

 

Cash Dividends per Share (in Pesos)

 

 

1.40

 

 

 

1.13

 

Book Value per Share (*) (in Pesos)

 

 

42.13

 

 

 

45.22

 

(*) Total Shreholders´Equity attributable to GFG divided Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the year.

                                                                
   Year Ended December 31, 
   2020  2019  2018  2017 
   (in millions of  Pesos, except as noted) 

Consolidated Statement of Income in Accordance with IFRS

     

Net Income from Interest

   76,632   47,417   69,873   62,565 

Net Fee Income

        36,558      38,233        44,756        44,332 

Net Income from Financial Instruments

   69,332   99,151   36,342   17,720 

Loan and Other Receivables Loss Provisions

   (34,680  (30,228  (34,136  (15,275

Net Operating Income

   182,711   200,475   153,081   144,459 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

   (36,963  (41,929  (37,831  (14,290

Operating Income

   43,503   50,178   7,067   30,571 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

   (17,845  (17,751  (14,477  (15,328

Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to GFG

   25,192   32,276   (7,258  14,228 

Other Comprehensive Income

   (210  548   (183  (911

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to GFG

   24,982   32,824   (7,442  13,317 

Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the year

   1,443   1,427   1,427   1,427 

Basic Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

   17.46   22.62   (5.09  9.97 

Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

   17.46   22.62   (5.09  9.97 

Cash Dividends per Share (in Pesos)

   (1 )   1.33   2.54   2.37 

Book Value per Share (*) (in Pesos)

   126.36      108.70      88.24      94.70    

 

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except as noted)

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet in Accordance with IFRS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

143,309

 

 

 

87,045

 

 

 

121,184

 

Debt Securities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss

 

 

75,935

 

 

 

42,748

 

 

 

28,818

 

Net Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710

 

 

 

284,355

 

 

 

245,703

 

Total Assets

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

489,641

 

 

 

450,614

 

Deposits

 

 

360,097

 

 

 

296,367

 

 

 

277,078

 

Other Liabilities

 

 

147,747

 

 

 

125,796

 

 

 

127,863

 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

 

 

60,125

 

 

 

64,525

 

 

 

42,954

 

Percentage of Period-end Balance Sheet Items Denominated in Dollars:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

39

%

 

 

24

%

 

 

14

%

Total Assets

 

 

45

%

 

 

28

%

 

 

27

%

Deposits

 

 

59

%

 

 

38

%

 

 

34

%

Total Liabilities

 

 

49

%

 

 

31

%

 

 

31

%


(1)

The cash dividend distribution for the fiscal year ended at December 31, 2020, is pending approval. For more information see Item 8. “Financial Information”-A.“Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information”-“Dividend Policy and Dividends”-“Dividends” -“Grupo Financiero Galicia”.

(2)

Total Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG divided Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the year.

 

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

2018

 

 

 

2017

 

 

Selected Ratios (*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Profitability and Efficiency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Yield on Interest Earning Assets (1)

 

 

14.08

 

%

 

 

11.43

 

%

Financial Margin (2)

 

 

15.57

 

%

 

 

12.11

 

%

Return on Assets (3)

 

 

(0.61

)

%

 

 

1.39

 

%

Return on Shareholders’ Equity (4)

 

 

(5.76

)

%

 

 

10.53

 

%

Efficiency ratio (5)

 

 

52.04

 

%

 

 

52.36

 

%

Capital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

10.55

 

%

 

 

13.18

 

%

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

8.45

 

x

 

 

6.54

 

x

Total Capital Ratio

 

 

15.11

 

%

 

 

10.69

 

%

Liquidity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks(6) as a Percentage of Total Deposits

 

 

39.80

 

%

 

 

29.37

 

%

Loans and other financing as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

49.63

 

%

 

 

58.07

 

%

Credit Quality

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-Accrual Instuments (7) as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

 

 

3.51

 

%

 

 

2.20

 

%

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Non-accrual Financial Instruments(7)

 

 

137.42

 

%

 

 

129.75

 

%

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

 

 

4.98

 

%

 

 

2.17

 

%

Inflation and Exchange Rate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale Price Index

 

73.50

 

%

 

18.80

 

%

Consumer Price Index

 

47.65

 

%

 

24.80

 

%

Exchange Rate Variation (8)

 

 

101.44

 

%

 

 

18.42

 

%

CER (9)

 

47.16

 

 

 

22.62

 

 

UVA (10)

 

46.86

 

 

 

21.15

 

 

                                                                
   For the Year Ended December 31, 
   2020  2019  2018  2017 
   (in millions of Pesos, except as noted) 

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position in Accordance with IFRS

     

Cash and Due from Banks

   175,423   177,866   300,131   182,297 

Debt Securities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss

   155,420   89,431   159,030   89,526 

Loans and Other Financing

   526,434   488,144   592,075   595,519 

Total Assets

   1,055,279   933,270   1,193,096   1,025,447 

Deposits

   676,396   536,034   754,146   620,677 

Other Liabilities

   97,472   97,153   132,432   263,451 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

   182,334   155,121   125,919   135,133 

Percentage of Period-end Balance Sheet Items Denominated in Dollars:

     

Loans and Other Financing

   18  23  35  21

Total Assets

   20  25  39  26

Deposits

   22  26  45  35

Total Liabilities

   9  22  34  30

(*) All of the ratios disclosed above are included because they are considered significant by the management of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

(1)

   For the Year Ended December 31, 
   2020  2019  2018  2017 

Selected Ratios (*)

    

Profitability and Efficiency

    

Net Yield on Interest Earning Assets (1)

   19.80  16.84  13.33  10.71

Financial Margin (2)

   14.68  11.87  8.43  11.48

Return on Assets (3)

   2.39  3.46  (0.61)%   1.39

Return on Shareholders’ Equity (4)

   13.82  20.81  (5.76)%   10.53

Efficiency ratio (5)

   47.39  50.55  63.99  63.62

Capital

     

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

   17.28  16.62  10.55  13.18

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity

   4.79  4.99  8.45  6.54

Total Capital Ratio

   22.16  17.53  15.11  10.69

Liquidity

     

Cash and Due from Banks as a Percentage of Total Deposits

   25.93  33.18  39.80  29.37

Loans and other financing, Net as a Percentage of Total Assets

          49.89      52.30         49.63         58.07

Credit Quality

     

Non-Accrual Instruments (6) as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

   1.43  3.96  3.51  2.20

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Non-accrual Financial Instruments (6)

   392.36  152.21  137.46  129.77

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

   5.19  5.12  4.98  2.24

Inflation and Exchange Rate

     

Wholesale Price Index

   35.38  58.49  73.50  18.80

Consumer Price Index

   36.14  53.83  47.65  24.80

Exchange Rate Variation (7)

   40.49  58.42  101.38  18.42

CER (8)

   25.49   18.70   12.34   8.38 

UVA (9)

   64.32   47.16   31.06   21.15 

(*)

All of the ratios disclosed above are included because they are considered significant by the management of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

(1)

Net interest earned divided by interest-earning assets. For a description of net interest earned, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”-A.“Business Overview”-“Selected Statistical Information”-“Average Balance Sheet and Income from Interest-Earning Assets and Expenses from Interest-Bearing Liabilities”.

(2)

Financial margin represents net interest income plus net result from financial instruments plus income from derecognition of assets measured at amortized cost plus foreign currency quotation differences plus certain items included in other operating income and expenses, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets.

(3)

Net income attributable to GFG as a percentage of total assets.

(4)

Net income attributable to GFG as a percentage of shareholders’ equity.

(5)

Personnel expenses plus administrative expenses plus depreciation and devaluations of assets, divided by net interest income plus net fee income plus net result from financial instruments plus income from derecognition of assets measured at amortized cost plus foreign currency quotation differences plus income from insurance business plus certain items included in other operating income and expenses plus loss on net monetary position.

(6)

Non-Accrual Financial Instruments are defined as those Financial Instruments in default. For a definition and description of default, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”-A.“Business Overview”-“Selected Statistical Information”-“Financial Instruments Classification and Loss Provisions”- “Definition of Default”.

(7)

Annual change in the end-of-period exchange rate expressed in Pesos per Dollar.

(8)

The “CER” is the “Coeficiente de Estabilización de Referencia”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in CPI.

(9)

The “UVA” is the “Unidad de Valor Adquisitivo”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in the CER.

(2) Financial margin represents net interest income plus net fee income plus net result from financial instruments plus foreign currency quotation differences plus insurance premiums earned plus certain items included in other operating income and expenses, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets.

(3) Net income attibutable to GFG as a percentage of  total assets.

(4) Net income attibutable to GFG as a percentage of shareholders’ equity.

(5) Personnel expenses plus administrative expenses plus depreciation and devaluations of assets, divided by net interest income plus net fee income plus net result from financial instruments plus foreign currency quotation differences plus insurance premiums earned plus certain items included in other operating income.

(6) Liquid assets of Banco Galicia include cash and receivables, Lebacs (Bills form Argentine Central Back), net call money, short-term loans to other Argentine financial institutions, special guarantee accounts held at the Argentine Central Bank, and repurchase and reverse repurchase transactions in the Argentine financial market.

(7) Non-Accrual Financial Instruments are defined as those Financial Instruments in Stage 3.

(8) Annual change in the end-of-period exchange rate expressed in Pesos per Dollar.

(9) The “CER” is the “Coeficiente de Estabilización de Referencia”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in CPI.

(10) The “UVA” is the “Unidad de Valor Adquisitivo”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in the CER.



The tables below reflect Grupo Galicia’s financial results for the fiscal yearsyear ended December 31, 2016, 2015were not adjusted for inflation, and 2014, which were prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP (“Previous GAAP”). The information based on Previous GAAP included below and elsewhere is this annual report is not comparable to information prepared in accordance with IFRS.

 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except as noted)

 

Consolidated Income Statement in Accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial Income

 

 

36,608

 

 

 

25,844

 

 

 

19,860

 

Financial Expenses

 

 

20,239

 

 

 

13,402

 

 

 

10,321

 

Gross Brokerage Margin (1)

 

 

16,369

 

 

 

12,442

 

 

 

9,539

 

Provision for Losses on Loans and Other Receivables

 

 

3,533

 

 

 

2,214

 

 

 

2,411

 

Income before Taxes

 

 

9,371

 

 

 

7,139

 

 

5,330

 

Income Tax

 

 

(3,353

)

 

 

(2,801

)

 

 

(1,992

)

Net Income

 

 

6,018

 

 

 

4,338

 

 

 

3,338

 

Basic Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

 

4.63

 

 

3.34

 

 

2.57

 

Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

 

4.63

 

 

3.34

 

 

2.57

 

Cash Dividends per Share (in Pesos)

 

0.18

 

 

0.12

 

 

0.08

 

Book Value per Share (in Pesos)

 

15.66

 

 

11.14

 

 

7.88

 

Amounts in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income

 

 

6,037

 

 

 

4,336

 

 

 

3,504

 

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

 

4.64

 

 

3.33

 

 

2.70

 

Book Value per Share (in Pesos)

 

15.45

 

 

11.06

 

 

7.88

 

Financial Income

 

 

34,549

 

 

 

24,252

 

 

 

18,166

 

Financial Expenses

 

 

19,410

 

 

 

12,826

 

 

 

9,663

 

Gross Brokerage Margin

 

 

15,139

 

 

 

11,426

 

 

 

8,503

 

Provision for Losses on Loans and Other Receivables

 

 

3,192

 

 

 

1,985

 

 

 

1,992

 

Income Tax

 

 

3,195

 

 

 

2,644

 

 

 

1,890

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet in Accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

61,166

 

 

 

30,835

 

 

 

16,959

 

Government Securities, Net

 

 

13,701

 

 

 

15,525

 

 

10,01

 

Loans, Net

 

 

137,452

 

 

 

98,345

 

 

 

66,608

 

Total Assets

 

 

242,251

 

 

 

161,748

 

 

 

107,314

 

Deposits

 

 

151,688

 

 

 

100,039

 

 

 

64,666

 

Other Funds (2)

 

 

70,210

 

 

 

47,224

 

 

 

32,402

 

Total Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

20,353

 

 

 

14,485

 

 

 

10,246

 

Average Total Assets (3)

 

 

184,395

 

 

 

122,684

 

 

92,51

 

Percentage of Period-end Balance Sheet Items

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Denominated in Dollars:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans, Net of Allowances

 

12.77

 

 

3.26

 

 

 

4.20

 

Total Assets

 

27.56

 

 

16.88

 

 

 

12.11

 

Deposits

 

33.63

 

 

14.37

 

 

 

7.46

 

Total Liabilities

 

30.82

 

 

18.86

 

 

 

13.61

 

Amounts in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trading Securities

 

 

17,196

 

 

 

16,148

 

 

 

10,199

 

Available-for-Sale Securities

 

 

5,423

 

 

 

4,385

 

 

 

4,627

 

Total Assets

 

 

260,403

 

 

 

180,142

 

 

 

120,393

 

Total Liabilities

 

 

240,316

 

 

 

165,759

 

 

 

110,150

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

20,087

 

 

 

14,383

 

 

 

10,243

 

Fiscal Year Ended
December 31,
2016
(in millions of Pesos,
except
  as noted)

(1)Consolidated Income Statement in Accordance with Argentine Banking  GAAP

Financial Income

36,608

Financial Expenses

20,239

Gross Brokerage Margin (1)

16,369

Provision for Losses on Loans and Other Receivables

3,533

Income before Taxes

9,371

Income Tax

(3,353

Net Income

6,018

Basic Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

4.63

Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

4.63

Cash Dividends per Share (in Pesos)

0.18

Book Value per Share (in Pesos)

15.66

Amounts in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

Net Income

6,037

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

4.64

Book Value per Share (in Pesos)

15.45

Financial Income

34,549

Financial Expenses

19,410

Gross Brokerage Margin

15,139

Provision for Losses on Loans and Other Receivables

3,192

Income Tax

3,195

Consolidated Balance Sheet in Accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP

Cash and Due from Banks

61,166

Government Securities, Net

13,701

Loans, Net

137,452

Total Assets

242,251

Deposits

151,688

Other Funds (2)

70,210

Total Shareholders’ Equity

20,353

Average Total Assets (3)

184,395

Percentage of Period-end Balance Sheet Items

Denominated in Dollars:

Loans, Net of Allowances

12.77

Total Assets

27.56

Deposits

33.63

Total Liabilities

30.82

Amounts in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

Trading Securities

17,196

Available-for-Sale Securities

5,423

Total Assets

260,403

Total Liabilities

240,316

Shareholders’ Equity

20,087

(1)

Gross Brokerage Margin primarily represents income from interest on loans and other receivables resulting from financial brokerage plus net income earned from government and corporate debt securities including gains and losses,holdings, minus interest on deposits and other liabilities from financial intermediation. It also includes the CER/UVA adjustment.

(2)

Primarily includes debt with merchants and liabilitiessecurities, loans with other banks and international entities.entities and amounts payable for spot and forward purchases to be settled.

(3)

Average Total Assets, including the related interest that is due thereon is calculated on a daily basis for Banco Galicia and for Galicia Uruguay, as well as for Tarjetas Regionales consolidated with its operating subsidiaries, and on a monthly basis for Grupo Financiero Galicia and its non-banking subsidiaries.


 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

2014

 

Selected Ratios in Accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Profitability and Efficiency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Yield on Interest Earning Assets (1)

 

 

13.26

%

 

 

14.18

%

 

 

 

14.42

%

Financial Margin (2)

 

 

12.10

 

 

13.12

 

 

 

13.56

 

Return on Average Assets (3)

 

3.48

 

 

3.83

 

 

 

3.85

 

Return on Average Shareholders’ Equity (4)

 

35.03

 

 

35.54

 

 

 

39.07

 

Net Income from Services as a Percentage of Operating Income (5)

 

39.63

 

 

38.65

 

 

 

 

37.40

 

Efficiency ratio (6)

 

64.98

 

 

63.64

 

 

 

60.51

 

Capital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

8.40

%

 

 

8.96

%

 

 

 

9.55

%

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity

 

10.9

x

 

10.17

x

 

 

9.47

x

Total Capital Ratio

 

 

15.04

%

 

 

13.38

%

 

 

 

15.91

%

Liquidity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks(7) as a Percentage of Total Deposits

 

 

47.18

%

 

 

42.93

%

 

 

 

38.60

%

Loans, Net as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

56.74

 

 

 

60.80

 

 

 

62.07

 

Credit Quality

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Past Due Loans (8) as a Percentage of Total Loans

 

 

2.43

%

 

 

2.46

%

 

 

 

2.61

%

Non-Accrual Loans (9) as a Percentage of Total Loans

 

3.31

 

 

3.11

 

 

 

3.57

 

Allowance for Loan Losses as a Percentage of Non-accrual Loans(9)

 

100.06

 

 

112.41

 

 

 

105.78

 

Net Charge-Offs (10) as a Percentage of Average Loans

 

1.67

 

 

1.26

 

 

 

2.81

 

Ratios in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

7.71

 

 

7.98

 

 

 

8.51

 

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Total Shareholders’ Equity

 

11.96

x

 

11.52

x

 

 

10.75

x

Liquidity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans, Net as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

52.76

%

 

 

54.55

%

 

 

 

55.29

%

Credit Quality

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses as a Percentage of Non-Accrual Loans

 

128.53

 

 

135.35

 

 

 

129.78

 

Inflation and Exchange Rate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale Inflation (11)

 

 

34.59

%

 

 

12.65

%

 

 

 

28.27

%

Consumer Inflation (12)

 

 

41.05

%

 

 

26.90

%

 

 

 

23.91

%

Exchange Rate Variation (13) (%)

 

21.88

 

 

52.07

 

 

 

31.21

 

CER (14)

 

35.79

 

 

15.05

 

 

 

24.34

 

UVA (15)

 

17.26

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Fiscal Year Ended
December 31,
2016

(1)Selected Ratios in Accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP

Profitability and Efficiency

Net Yield on Interest Earning Assets (4)

13.26

Financial Margin (5)

12.10

Return on Average Assets (6)

3.48

Return on Average Shareholders’ Equity (7)

35.03

Net Income from Services as a Percentage of Operating Income (9)

39.63

Efficiency ratio (9)

64.98

Capital

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

8.40

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity

10.9x

Total Capital Ratio

15.04

Liquidity

Cash and Due from Banks(10) as a Percentage of Total Deposits

47.18

Loans, Net as a Percentage of Total Assets

56.74

Credit Quality

Past Due Loans (11) as a Percentage of Total Loans

2.43

Non-Accrual Loans (12) as a Percentage of Total Loans

3.31

Allowance for Loan Losses as a Percentage of Non-accrual
Loans(12)

100.06

Net Charge-Offs (13) as a Percentage of Average Loans

1.67

Ratios in Accordance with U.S. GAAP

Capital

Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Total Assets

7.71

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Total Shareholders’ Equity

11.96x

Liquidity

Loans, Net as a Percentage of Total Assets

52.76

Credit Quality

Allowance for Loan Losses as a Percentage of Non-Accrual Loans

128.53

Inflation and Exchange Rate

Wholesale Inflation (14)

34.59

Consumer Inflation (15)

41.05

Exchange Rate Variation (16) (%)

21.88

CER (17)

35.79

UVA (18)

17.26

(1)

Net interest earned divided by interest-earning assets.

(2)

Financial margin represents gross brokerage margin divided by average interest-earning assets.

(3)

Net income excluding non-controlling interest as a percentage of average total assets.

(4)

Net income as a percentage of average shareholders’ equity.

(5)

Operating income is defined as gross brokerage margin plus net income from services.

(6)

Administrative expenses as a percentage of operating income as defined above.

(7)

Liquid assets of Banco Galicia include cash and receivables, Lebacs, net call money, short-term loans to other Argentine financial institutions, special guarantee accounts at the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, and repurchase and reverse repurchase transactions in the Argentine financial market.

(8)

Past-due loans are defined as the aggregate principal amount of a loan plus any accrued interest that is due and payable for which either the principal or any interest payment is 91 days or more past due.

(9)

Non-Accrual loans are defined as those loans in the categories of: (a) Consumer portfolio: “Medium Risk”, “High Risk”, “Uncollectible”, and “Uncollectible Due to Technical Reasons”, and (b) Commercial portfolio: “With problems”, “High Risk of Insolvency”, “Uncollectible”, and “Uncollectible Due to Technical Reasons”.

(10)

Direct charge-offs minus amounts recovered.

(11)

As of December 31, 2015, as measured by the interannual change between the October 2014 and the October 2015 Wholesale Price Index (“WPI”), published by INDEC (as defined herein), because the measurement of this index was discontinued for the remainder of 2015. In 2016 the measure was reinstated.

(12)

In 2015, annual variation of the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”)(CPI) was calculated using the Consumer Price Index of the City of Buenos Aires, an alternative measure of inflation proposed by INDEC after it discontinued its index.

(13)

Annual change in the end-of-period exchange rate expressed in Pesos per Dollar.

(14)

The “CER” is the “Coeficiente de Estabilización de Referencia”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in the CPI.

(15)

The “UVA” is the “Unidad de Valor Adquisitivo”, an adjustment coefficient based on changes in the CER.

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.


C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

D. Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the risks described below in addition to the other information contained in this annual report. In addition, most, if not all, of the risks described below must be evaluated bearing in mind that our most important asset is our equity interest in Banco Galicia. Thus, a material change in Banco Galicia’s shareholders’ equity or income statement would also adversely affect our businesses and results of operations. We may also face risks and uncertainties that are not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial, which may impair our business. Our operations, property and customers are located in Argentina. Accordingly, the quality of our customer portfolio, loan portfolio, financial condition and results of operations depend, to a significant extent, on the macroeconomic and political conditions prevailing in Argentina. In general, the risk assumed when investing in the securities of issuers from countries such as Argentina is higher than when investing in the securities of issuers from developed countries.

Risk Factors Relating to Argentina

The current state of the Argentine economy, together with uncertainty regarding the government,Government, may adversely affect our business and prospects.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations may be affected by inflation, fluctuations in the exchange rate, modifications in interest rates, changes in the Argentine government’s policies and other political or economic developments either internationally or in Argentina that affect the country.Argentina.

During the course of the last few decades, Argentina’s economy has been marked by a high degree of instability and volatility, periods of low or negative economic growth and high, fluctuating levels of inflation and currency devaluation. Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations, the rights of holders of securities issued by Grupo Financiero Galicia and the value of such securities could be materially and adversely affected by a number of possible factors, somefactors. Some of whichthese factors include Argentina’s inability to sustainachieve a sustainable economic growth the effects ofpath, high inflation rates, Argentina’s ability to obtain financing, a decline in the international prices for Argentina’s main commodity exports, fluctuations in the exchange rates of other countries against which Argentina competes(which affects local commercial competitiveness) and the vulnerability of the Argentine economy to external shocks.

Since 2012,During the past decade Argentina has gone throughexperienced economic stagnation as a periodresult of stagflation. Figuresunstable monetary, fiscal and economic regulatory policies. This, combined with a lack of institutional transparency, led to increasing inflation rates, lack of economic activity reflected a slowdowngrowth, currency instability and low investment levels, among others. As there will be Congressional elections in domestic production, together with an increasing inflation rate at a higher pace than2021, additional risks may arise if new policies are implemented by the newly elected Congress that noted in previous years. Afterfurther exacerbate the Peso devaluation with respectexisting macroeconomic imbalances. In addition to the Dollar that took place in January 2014, the exchange rate between those two currencies remained relatively steady until the end of the former government’s term of office. During that period, low activity growth levels continued coexisting with a high inflation rate.

In December 2015, Mauricio Macri took officesuch possible new Congressional policies, no assurance can be provided regarding other events, such as the new presidentenactment of Argentina. Since becoming president, Mr. Macri has implemented several measures, such as exchange and regulatory measures that reversedother governmental policies, that had been in place prior to his administration, such as regulations related to exchange controls and other currency regulations. The impact of these measures, such as a devaluation of the Peso with respect to the Dollar of approximately 50%, as well as the impact of any measures that the Macri administration may implementoccur in the future is unknown and could have a materialtheir impact on the Argentina economy and adverse impact on the results of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s operations.

No assurance can be given that additional events in the future, such as the enactment of new regulations by the Argentine government or authorities, will not occur. As a result of the foregoing,current state of the Argentine economy as described above and herein and the uncertainty regarding the Government and policies it may enact, the financial position and results of operations of private sector companies in Argentina, including Grupo Financiero Galicia, the rights of the holders of securities issued by such institutions and the value thereof may be negatively and adversely impacted.


Economic conditions in Argentina may deteriorate, which may adversely impact Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business and financial condition.

AEconomic conditions in Argentina may deteriorate. In particular, a less favorable international context,economic environment, a decrease in the competitiveness of the Peso as compared to foreign currencies, the low consumer confidence and low confidence from both local and foreign investors and a highertogether with high inflation rate,rates, among other factors, may affect the development and growth of the Argentine economy and cause volatility in the local capital markets. Such events may adversely impact Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business and financial condition. Pursuant to the National Institute of Statistics and Census (the “INDEC”), the gross domestic product (the “GDP”) in Argentina, in real terms, decreased 2.5% in 2014; increased 2.7% in 2015; decreased 2.1% in 2016; increased 2.7% in 2017; and decreased 2.5% in 2018. Likewise, the INDEC carried out a review of the economic growth data corresponding to the periods from 2005 to 2015. This review exhibited a 20% difference between current measurements and those conducted by the prior administration.

In particular, the Argentine economy has proven to be and continues to be vulnerable to several factors, including:

a higheconomic growth rate of public spending;volatility;

high inflation rates;

regulatory uncertainty for certain economic activities and sectors;

decreasesvolatility in the prices for commodities as the economic recovery has depended on high prices for commodities, which prices are volatile and beyond the control of the government;Argentina’s main export commodities’ prices;

the effects of a restrictive U.S. monetary policy, which could generate an increase inexternal financial costs for Argentina;conditions;

fluctuations in the Argentine Central Bank’s monetaryBCRA’s international reserves; and

uncertainty with respect to exchange and capital controls.

No assurance can be provided that a decline in economic growth or certain economic instability will not occur. Any such stagnation, or slowdown or increased economic and political instability could have a significant adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, financial position and results of operations, and the trading price for its ADSs.

The ability of the current administration to implement proposed economic policy reforms, and the impact that these measures and any future measures taken by a new administration will have on the Argentine economy, remains uncertain.

As the date of this annual report, the impact that the reforms adopted by the Macri administrationGovernment will have on the Argentine economy as a whole, and the financial sector in particular, cannot be predicted. In addition, it is currently unclear what additional measures the Macri administration’s ability tocurrent administration may implement allin the future and what the effects of its proposed policies and corresponding measures cannotthe same may be assured. on the Argentine economy.

Since assumingtaking office, the MacriFernández administration has announced and implemented several significant economic measures and policy reforms, including reforms relatedthe impact of which are uncertain at this time. For example, on December 20, 2019, the Argentine National Congress passed Law No. 27,541, which declared a public emergency in economic, financial, fiscal, administrative, pension, energy, health and social matters. It also delegated to the INDEC,Executive Branch broad authority and power to take actions designed to, among other things, ensure the sustainability of the level of public debt, restructure the rate the energy system charges its customers through a renegotiation of the current comprehensive tariff regime and restructure the regulatory entities for the energy system. Throughout 2020, other important Laws were passed, such as Law 27,609, in which the pension-adjustment formula was modified, and Law 27,605, that imposed a one-off tax on high net worth individuals.

Further, beyond the above noted reforms and policies, foreign exchange market (the “FX market”) restrictions, in combination with a relatively loose monetary and fiscal policy and additional restrictions on foreign trade fiscal deficit reduction,could result in lower economic growth rates in Argentina for the correction of certain monetary imbalances, energy crisis, corporate criminal liability,coming years. In addition, an adverse result in the social security system,debt negotiation that the Government is carrying out with external creditors, such as the International Monetary Fund (“IMF”), could affect access to capital markets, and may affect the tax code. In 2016, Macri’s administration also was able to reach an agreement with the holdout creditors of Argentina’s outstanding debt.

In the congressional elections held on October 22, 2017, Macri’s governing coalition obtained the largest percentage of votes. His coalition, however, does not have a majority of seats in Congress, and therefore, it may be difficult to implement somegrowth of the aforementioned measures unless President Macri obtains support fromcountry, provinces and private companies. It is impossible to predict the opposition party. This creates further uncertainty as to whether the Macri administration will be able to pass further reform measures. The political uncertainty surrounding potential economic reform could lead to volatility in the market prices of securities of Argentine companies.


The fiscal, monetary and currency adjustments undertaken by the Macri administration may result in slower short-term economic growth while seeking to guide the economy toward a sustained path for growth in the medium-term. Immediately after the foreign exchange controls were lifted on December 16, 2015, the dismantling of the multiple exchange regime resulted in the official Peso exchange rate (available only for certain types of transactions) falling in value by 40.1%, and the Peso-Dollar exchange rate fell to Ps.13.76 to US$1.00 on December 17, 2015. The Argentine Central Bank allowed the Peso to float with limited intervention until March 2018.As a result of the exchange rate crisis that began in March 2018 and lasted throughout the rest of 2018, the Peso-Dollar exchange rate became increasingly volatile. The exchange rate crisis lasted throughout most of 2018 and by December 28, 2018, the Peso-Dollar exchange rate had increased to Ps.37.81 to US$1.00. There can be no assurance as to the short- or long-term effectsimpact of these policies on the exchange rate or the Argentine economymeasures, as a whole.

The impact that these measures, andwell as any future measures taken by a new administration, will havethat may be adopted, on the Argentine economy as a wholeoverall and the financial sector in particular.

In particular, cannot be predicted. Economic liberalizationinterventionist measures adopted by the Government or future measures implemented may be disruptive to the economy and may fail to benefit, or may harm, our business. In particular, Grupo Financiero Galicia has no control over the implementation of the reforms to the regulatory framework that governs its operations and cannot guarantee that these reforms will be implemented or that they will be implemented in a manner that will benefit its business. The failure of these measures to achieve their intended goals could adversely affect the Argentine economy and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, financial position and results of operations and the trading price for its ADSs.

If the high levels of inflation continue or if inflation figures are not trusted, the Argentine economy and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial position and business could be adversely affected.

Since 2007, the Argentine economyArgentina has experienced high levels of inflation. According to private estimates, as figures published by the INDEC were not reliable, inflation rates increased from levels of around 10% in 2005 and 2006 to a levelhas been systematically above 20% since 2007, reaching a maximum of 53.8 % in 2019. Accumulated inflation during 2020 was 36.1%. Moreover, between 2007 and 2015 official figures became unreliable and private estimates of inflation were more frequently used (as further described below).

As noted above, between 2007 and 2015, official inflation figures became unreliable. Specifically, the following years,national statistics agency INDEC (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos; “INDEC” for its acronym in Spanish), is the only institution in Argentina with legal power to produce official national statistics. During the referenced time period, INDEC went through a process of major institutional and reachedmethodological reforms that led to concerns related to the reliability of the information produced by INDEC. In 2016, an administrative emergency regarding the national statistical system was declared and INDEC stopped publishing certain data until a ratecomplete reorganization of 42.3%its structure was undertaken in 2014, decreasingorder to 27.2% in 2015, mainlyreestablish its ability to produce relevant, sufficient and trustworthy information.

Despite the fact that due to the slowdownreforms implemented in economic activityrecent years, inflation rates calculated by INDEC are generally accepted, the possibility that they may be manipulated in Argentinathe future cannot be ruled out. Any such future manipulation could affect the Argentine economy in general and the financial sector in particular.

In addition to concerns related to the overvaluationtrustworthiness of the Peso, and increasing again to around 40%inflation figures, in 2016 and 25% in 2017, primarily as a consequence of the adjustments made by the government to fix certain macroeconomic imbalances, such as the dismantling of the multiple exchange regime and eliminating certain subsidies. In 2018, the devaluation of the Peso led to a rise in inflation. Inflation was 47.6% as of December 31, 2018. In response to this hyperinflation, the Argentine Central Bank abandoned its annual inflation reduction goals for 2019.

In the past, inflation has materially undermined the Argentine economy and the Argentine government’sGovernment’s ability to generate conditions that fostered economic growth. In addition,particular, high inflation rates or a high level of volatility with respect to the same, may materially and adversely affect the business volume of the financial system and prevent the growth of financial intermediation activity. This, in turn, could adversely affect economic activity and employment.

In addition to the above, the accuracy of INDEC’s calculation of the CPI in Greater Buenos Aires (IPC-GBA), according to which inflation was calculated, has been questioned. In particular, concerns were historically voiced that the actual consumer and wholesale price indices may be significantly higher than those that were indicated by INDEC. In order to address these concerns, the Macri administration has implemented various personnel changes at the INDEC. The new individuals in charge have discontinued use of most previously used indices in order to review the same and, potentially, to establish new, more accurate and reliable indices. There is currently uncertainty regarding what other future measures the INDEC may adopt and the impact that such measures may have on the relationship between Argentina and the IMF and the results of operations of Grupo Galicia.

ACombined with high inflation rates, Argentina has also displayed high volatility in its currency, as a consequence of local imbalances and external shocks. Both high inflation rates and high levels of volatility in the inflation rate also affectsaffect Argentina’s competitiveness abroad, as well as real salaries, employment rates, consumption rates and interest rates. A high level of uncertainty with regard to these economic variables, and lack of stability in terms of inflation, could lead to shortened contractual terms and affect the ability to plan and make decisions. This may have a negative impact on economic activity and on the income of consumers and their purchasing power, allpower. All of whichthe above could materially and adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial position, results of operations and business, and the trading price for its ADSs.


Argentina’s and Argentine companies’ ability to obtain financing and to attract direct foreign investment is limited and may adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial position, results of operations and business.

Argentina and Argentine companies have had limited access to foreign financing in recent years, primarily as a result of a default in December 2001 by Argentina on its debt to foreign bondholders, multilateral financial institutions and other financial institutions. Argentina settled all of its outstanding debt with the IMF in 2006, carried out a variety of debt swaps with certain bondholders between 2004 and 2010, and reached an agreement with the Paris Club in 2014. After several years of litigation, on March 1, 2016, an agreement was reached between the Argentine government and certain creditors to which the Argentine government was previously in default. This agreement consisted of a payment in cash of approximately US$4.7 billion to the NML, Aurelius, Barcebridge and Davidson Kempner funds, and was approved by the Argentine Congress pursuant to law No.27,249.

On April 18, 2016, in order to make thea payment owed to said funds and to othersimilarly situated bondholders, in similar conditions, Argentina issued bonds in an amount of US$16.5 billion, with interest rates between 6.25% and 8% and maturities of three, five, 10ten and 30thirty years. The payment of approximately US$9.3 billion to the bondholders was made on April 22, 2016, thus reaching a final solution to the Argentine debt in default.

During the remainder of 2016, 2017 and the first four months of 2018, the Argentine government continued to seek financing from international markets. Following the exchange rate crisis beginning in April 2018, however, Argentina haswas not been able to access the international capital markets, resulting in the Argentine government requesting a loan from the IMF (Stand-By(pursuant to a Stand-By Agreement for a total of US$57 billion). The

In 2019, Argentina’s bonds plummeted and the country risk soared after the Primary Presidential Elections that took place on August 11, in which the Fernandez-Fernandez platform won by a landslide, making the country unable to refinance its existing debt with the private sector. As a result, the Macri administration decided to unilaterally restructure the maturity dates on short-term debt issued by the Argentine governmentGovernment and denominated both in Argentine pesos and in Dollars. When President Fernandez took office, his administration commenced debt-restructuring negotiations for debt held by the Government that was held by foreign creditors. This restructuring was completed in September 2020. Argentina is also seeking to restructure its IMF loan in 2021, as principal payments from the 2018’s Stand-By Agreement begin to fall due in October 2021. A new agreement with the IMF may only drawdown on such loan to the extent it is honoring itsrequire a commitment to implement restrictive monetaryreforms and fiscal policies,changes to economic policy, which could have a significant adverse effect on Argentina’s economy and on Argentine companies orincluding Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ability to obtain international financing and could also adversely affect local credit conditions. If Argentina is not able to reach an agreement with the IMF, the country may default on such debt. Any such default on the IMF debt or other current outstanding debt would likely inhibit or prevent access by the Government and Argentine companies to the international financial markets and may also compromise the ability of such entities to obtain bilateral financing. This would have an adverse effect on the Argentine economy, including Grupo Financiero Galicia, and would likely cause a negative impact the ability of companies, including Grupo Financiero Galicia, to obtain foreign financing.

A decline in the international prices of Argentina’s main commoditycommodities exports and an additionala real appreciation of the Peso against the Dollar could affect the Argentine economy and create new pressures on the foreign exchange market and have a material adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition, prospects and operating results.

The reliance on the export of certain commodities, such as soy,(particularly soybeans and its by products, corn and wheat), has made the country more vulnerable to fluctuations in their prices. A decrease in commodity prices may adversely affect the Argentine government’s fiscal revenues and the Argentine economy as a whole. Given its reliance on such agricultural commodities, the country is also vulnerable to weather events—such as 2018’s drought—that may negatively affect production, reducing fiscal revenues and the inflow of Dollars.

AIn order to counterbalance and diversify its reliance on the above noted agricultural commodities as well as to add another source of revenue, Argentina has focused on increasing its oil and gas exports. Nevertheless, a long-term decrease in the international price of oil would negatively impact such prospects and result in a decrease in foreign investment in such sectors.

Additionally, a significant increase in the real appreciation of the Peso could affect Argentina’s competitiveness, substantially affecting exports, and this in turn could promptprompting new recessionary pressures on Argentina’s economy and a new imbalance in the foreign exchange market, which could exacerbateexacerbating exchange rate volatility. Given the strong reliance on revenues from taxes on exports, aA significant appreciation of the real exchange rate could substantially reduceadversely affect the Argentine public sector’s tax revenues in real terms.terms, since around 7% of the country’s total revenues depend on export taxes. The occurrence of the foregoing could exacerbateintensify the existing inflationary environment and potentially materially and adversely affect the Argentine economy, as well as Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and operating results and, thus, the trading prices for its ADSs.

Volatility in the regulatory framework could have a material and adverse effect on Argentina’s economy in general, and on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial position, specifically.

From time to time the Argentine government has enacted several laws amending the regulatory framework governing a number of different activities as a measure to stimulate the economy, some of which have had adverse effects on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business. Although the currentformer administration has eliminated some of these regulations, political and social pressures could inhibit the Argentine government’s implementation of policies designed to generate growth and enhance consumer and investor confidence.

No assurance can be provided that future regulations, and especially those related to the financial system, will not materially and adversely affect the assets, revenues and operating income of private sector companies, including Grupo Financiero Galicia, the rights of holders of securities issued by those entities, or the value of those securities. The lack of regulatory foresight could impose significant limitations on activities of the financial system and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, and would generate uncertainty regarding its future financial position and result of operations and trading price for its ADSs.


The Argentine economy and its goods, financial services and securities markets remain vulnerable to external factors, which could affect Argentina’s economic growth and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s prospects.

The financial and securities markets in Argentina are influenced, to varying degrees, by economic and market conditions in other countries. Although such conditions may vary from country to country, investor reactions to events occurring in one country may affect capital flows to issuers in other countries, and consequently affect the trading prices of their securities. Decreased capital inflows and lower prices in the securitiesstock market of a country may have a material adverse effect on the real economy of those countries in the form of higher interest rates and foreign exchange volatility.

During periods of uncertainty in international markets, investors generally choose to invest in high-quality assets (“flight to quality”) over emerging market assets. This has caused and could continue to cause an adverse impact on the Argentine economy and could continue to adversely affect the country’s economy in the near future.

The problems facedmonetary and fiscal policies implemented by the European Union’s periphery countries, resulting from a combination of factorsworld’s leading economies, such as low growth, fiscal woesthe US, China and financial pressures, are particularly acute. Reestablishing financial and fiscal stability to offset the low or zero growth continues to pose a challenge. As a result, the leading economies of the European Union imposed emergency economic plans in such countries, which plans are still in place. During 2018,have an affect on the U.S. Federal Reserve increased the Federal Funds rate by 100 basis points and continued to cut its asset purchase and its monetary easing programs. Such changes continued to strengthen the Dollar globally, affectingArgentine economy through interest rates, commodity prices and reducingeconomic growth rates. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative effect on economic growth worldwide, negatively impacting Argentine exports due to a contraction of foreign demand for the inflowsame. Current lower interest rates in leading economies favor emerging markets such as Argentina; however, high levels of capital to emerging market countries, including Argentina.overall economic uncertainty may result in factors that offset any positive impact from such lower interest rates.

The economic activity of Brazil, one of Argentina’s main trade partner,partners, also has experienced a slight increase in GDP in recent years, increasing 1.1% in 2017 and 2018. Although Brazil’s economic outlook may be improving, a further deterioration of activity, a delay in Brazil’s expected economic recovery or a slower pace of economic improvement in Brazil may have a negativean impact on Argentina’s economy. A depreciation of the Brazilian Real against the Dollar has in the past and would again in the future put additional pressure on the exchange rate for the Argentine Peso against the Dollar. Likewise, a weak economic performance from Brazil would affect Argentine exports, particularly in the case of industrial goods, many of which Argentina exports to Brazil.

Adverse climate conditions and onevents may also affect Argentina’s economy, either by negatively impacting the overall level of economiclocal harvest and industrial activity in Argentina, particularly with respect to the automotive industry. In addition, the inauguration of Jair Bolsonaro as the new president of Brazil has contributed to geopolitical volatility in this region as a result of his polarizing ideologies.

China,thus reducing export volumes or by impacting other competing countries and affecting international commodities’ prices, which is the main importer ofdetermine Argentine raw materials, experienced an economic slowdown in 2018 as compared to recent years. The prices for Argentine commodities, in particular oilseeds, decreased. If these trends continue, it could affect the inflow of foreign currency into Argentina from exports. The slowdown of the Chinese economy and increased volatility of its financial markets could impact financial markets worldwide, which, in turn, could increase the cost and availability of financing both domestically and internationally for Argentine companies.agricultural exports’ value.

The international financial environment may also result in a devaluation of regional currencies and exchange rates, including the Peso, which would likely also cause economic volatility in Argentina.

A new global economic and/or financial crisis or the effects of deterioration in the current international context, could negatively affect the Argentine economy and, consequently, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations, financial conditionconditions and the trading price for its ADSs.

A potential additional devaluation of the Peso may hinder or potentially prevent Grupo Financiero Galicia from being able to honor its foreign currency denominated obligations.

The Argentine Peso depreciated 15.6% as compared to the Dollar in 2017, 50.3% in 2018, 36.9% in 2019 and 28.8% in 2020, according to the official quotation of the BCRA. If the Peso depreciated significantlyfurther depreciates against the U.S. Dollar, as has recently occurred and which could occur again in the future, itthis could have an adverse effect on the ability of Argentine companies to make timely payments on their debts denominated in or indexed or otherwise connected to a foreign currency, generate very high inflation rates, reduce real salaries significantly, and have an adverse effect on companies focused on the domestic market, such as public utilities and the financial industry. Such a potential devaluation could also adversely affect the Argentine government’s capacity to honor its foreign debt, with adverse consequences for Grupo Financiero Galicia’s and Banco Galicia’s businesses, which could affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s capacity to meet obligations denominated in a foreign currency which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the trading prices for Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ADSs.


In 2017, the Dollar to Peso exchange rate increased 18% as compared to 2016. This trend accelerated in 2018, with an increase of 113% from December 2017 to December 2018. Since December 31, 2018, the local currency has depreciated by 14%. Any further depreciation of the Peso may have an adverse impact on the business of Grupo Galicia and on the trading prices for its ADSs.

Additionally, the Central BankBCRA may intervene in the foreign exchange market to influence exchange rates. Purchases of Pesos by the Central BankBCRA could result in a decrease of its international reserves. A significant decrease in the Central Bank’sBCRA’s international reserves may have an adverse impact on Argentina’s ability to withstand external shocks to the economy, and any adverse effects to the Argentine economy could, in turn, adversely affect the financial position and business of Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries.

Finally, as a result

In order to control the depreciation of the hyperinflationPeso, on September 1, 2019 the Executive Branch introduced capital controls through decree No. 609/2019, whose validity was extended indefinitely by the government of Fernández through Decree No. 91/2019 and Communication “A” 6854 and 6856 of the BCRA. These controls include the need to obtain authorization from the BCRA to purchase foreign currency in excess of US$200 per month per person, and the mandatory liquidation of exporters’ foreign exchange earnings in the local market within five days, among other measures. This allows the BCRA to exercise control over the Peso and therefore to prevent the Argentine currency from depreciating. Throughout 2020, the capital controls initially imposed in 2019 were bolstered. Additionally, restrictions limited personal and corporate access to foreign currencies in the official market. Despite the imposition of such controls, the BCRA continued to lose monetary reserves throughout most of 2020, ending 2020 with a US$5.37 billion contraction in international reserves. A depreciation of the Peso could adversely affect the Argentine economy and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition, its business, and its ability to service its existing debt obligations. Moreover, an acceleration of inflation caused by thean exchange rate crisis would raise the costs associated with Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries servicing their foreign currency-denominated, debt will increase, which could increase Grupo Financiero Galicia’s costs and therefore have a material adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations.

Changes or new regulations in the Argentine foreign exchange market may adversely affect the ability and the manner in which Grupo Financiero Galicia repays its obligations denominated in, indexed to or otherwise connected to a foreign currency.

Since December 2001, different government administrations have established and implemented various restrictions on foreign currency transfers (both in respect of transfer into and out of Argentina). AlthoughSuch is the Macri administration eliminatedcase of the current measures that limit the ability of residents to purchase foreign currency for saving purposes and by capping the amount that can be purchased by the general public at US$200 per month and imposing a 30% tax on all such restrictions, Grupo Galicia cannot assureforeign currency purchases, as well as on any purchases in foreign currency made with debit or credit cards and on the purchase of international flights, hotels or tourism packages. Moreover, as of September 15, 2020, a 35% tax has been imposed on foreign currency that such measures will notis purchased in order to be implemented againsaved and on credit card expenses incurred in the future.a foreign currency. This tax is structured to be a credit in advance for income and property taxes be paid.

The impact that the newthese measures or potential future measures will have on the Argentine economy and Grupo Financiero Galicia is uncertain. No assurance can be provided that the regulations will not be amended, or that no new regulations will be enacted in the future imposing greater limitations on funds flowing into and out of the Argentine foreign exchange market. Any such new measures, as well as any additional controls and/or restrictions, could materially affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ability to access the international capital markets and may undermine its ability to make payments of principal and/or interest on its obligations denominated in a foreign currency or transfer funds abroad (in total or in part) to make payments on its obligations (which could affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations). Therefore, Argentine resident or non-resident investors should take special notice of these regulations (and their amendments) that limit access to the foreign exchange market. In the future Grupo Financiero Galicia may be prevented from making payments in U.S. Dollars and/or making payments outside of Argentina due to the restrictions in place at that time in the foreign exchange market and/or due to the restrictions on the ability of companies to transfer funds abroad.

It may be difficult to effect service of process against Grupo Financiero Galicia’s executive officers and directors, and foreign judgments may be difficult to enforce or may be unenforceable.

Service of process upon individuals or entities which are not resident in the United States may be difficult to obtain in the United States. Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries are companies incorporated under the laws of Argentina. Most of their shareholders, directors, members of the Supervisory Syndics’ Committee, officers, and some specialists named herein are domiciled in Argentina and the most significant part of their assets is located in Argentina. Although Grupo Financiero Galicia has an agent to receive service of process in any action against it in the United States with respect to its ADSs, none of its executive officers or directors has consented to service of process in the United States or to the jurisdiction of any United States court. As a result, it may be difficult to effect service of process against Grupo Financiero Galicia’s executive officers and directors. Additionally, under

Argentine law, the enforcement of foreign judgments will only be allowed if the requirements in sections 517 to 519 of the National Code of Civil and Commercial Procedures are met or if it is one of the powers governed by provincial law, the requirements in the applicable local code of procedure,procedures are met, and provided that the foreign judgment does not infringe on concepts of public policy in Argentine law, as determined by the competent courts of Argentina. As such, an Argentine court may find that the enforcement in Argentina of a foreign judgment (including a U.S. court) that requires payment be made by an Argentine individual to holders of its foreign currency-denominated securities outside of Argentina is contrary to the public policy if, for instance, there are legal restrictions in place prohibiting Argentine debtors from transferring foreign currency abroad to pay off debts.


The intervention of the Argentine government in the electric power sector could have a material adverse impact on the Argentine economy, which may have a material adverse impact on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations.

Historically, the Argentine government has played an active role in the electric power sector through the ownershipholding and management of state-owned companies engaged in the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power. To address the Argentine economic crisis of 2001 and 2002, the Argentine governmentGovernment adopted Law No.25,561 and other regulations which made a number ofseveral material changes to the regulatory framework applicable to the electric power sector and have significantly distorted supply and demand in the sector. These changes included the freezing of distribution margins, the revocationreversal of adjustment and inflation indexation mechanisms for tariffs, a limitation on the ability of electric power distribution companies to pass on to the consumer increases in costs due to regulatory charges and the introduction of a new price-setting mechanism in the wholesale electricity market, all of which had a significant impact on electric power generators and caused substantial price differences within the market.

Since the MacriThe former administration assumed office, the Argentine government has initiatedbegan significant reforms in the electric power sector. As part of such reforms, the Argentine government has takenadministration took actions designed to guarantee the supply of electric power in Argentina, such as instructing the Ministry of Energy and Mining to develop and implement a coordinated program to guarantee the quality of the electric power system and ration individuals’ and public entities’ consumption of energy by increasing tariffs. In addition,.

As of the Argentine government and certain provincial governmentsdate hereof, the tariffs that electrical power companies can charge have approved significant price adjustments and tariffnot been “modified” for more than two years. As such, the increasing costs incurred by these electrical power companies that are not covered by the current tariffs have been paid for using governmental subsidies. This use of governmental subsidies instead of increases applicablein tariffs has led to certain generation and distribution companies, resulting in an increase in costthe level of energy prices for consumers.

On March 31, 2017,public spending by the Ministry of Energy and Mining released a new tariff schedule that increasedGovernment. Looking ahead, any reduction by the price consumers pay for electricity and natural gas by 36% with the goal of reducing governmentGovernment in such public subsidies for energy consumption as part of efforts to reduce the Argentine government’s fiscal deficit. Following a public hearing, the Minister of Energy and Mining released a revised tariff schedule in December 2017, which further increased rates between 34% and 57% (depending on the province) for natural gas and approximately 34% for other electricity. On December 28, 2018, the government further increased gas and electricity tariffs to 40% and 55%, respectively, which will be implemented during the 2019 fiscal year.

As a result, there has been a significant(and corresponding increase in the cost of energy in Argentina, whichelectrical power tariffs charged) could have a material adverse effect on inflation and, thus, on Argentine consumers’ disposable income and therefore,the financial and operating performance of Argentine companies. As a result, it could affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations and the trading price of our ADSs.ADSs as well.

The measures adopted by the Argentine government and the claims filed by workers on an individual basis or as part of a labor union action may lead to pressures to increase salaries or additional benefits, which would increase companies’, including Grupo Financiero Galicia’s, operating costs. Additionally, labor union activity could lead to strikes or work stoppages, which may materially and adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations.

In the past, the Argentine government has passed laws and regulations requiring private sector companies to maintain certain salary levels and provide their employees with additional work-related benefits. Furthermore, employers, both in the public sector and in the private sector, have been experiencing intense pressure from their personnel, or from the labor unions representing such personnel, demanding salary increases and certain benefits for the workers, given the prevailing high inflation rates. Labor pressure

For example, during the early months of 2019 the Argentine union that represents banking sector employees declared general strikes. These strikes did not have a direct effect on banks but did impact banks’ clients who were not able to access branches. Strikes such as the one that took place in 2019 can also lower the perception the public has of banks, which could have a reputational cost for us. Labor movements are active in Argentina and can potentially lead to further strikes or work stoppages if demands are not satisfied, which could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s operations.operations and operating costs.

There can be no assurance that the Argentine government will not adopt measures in the future mandating salary increases or the provision of additional employee benefits, or that employees or their unions will not exert pressure on companies, such as Grupo Financiero Galicia, in demanding the implementation of such measures. The implementation of any such measures could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s expenses and business, results of operations and financial condition and, thus, on the trading prices for its ADSs.

High levels of government expenditures in Argentina could generate long lasting adverse consequences for the Argentine economy.

Since 2007, Argentina increased its spending to Gross Domestic Product (“GDP”) to reach a maximum of 24% in 2015, quite above the ratio of the rest of the countries in the region. Since then, a decreasing trend in expenditures was observed until the year 2019. However, in 2020 the spending-to-GDP ratio increased again, as the fiscal stimulus package implemented to deal with COVID-19 and the mobility restrictions put pressure on the fiscal balance resulted in increased expenditures. In 2020, the primary deficit amounted to 6.5% of GDP, and was mainly financed by assistance from the BCRA.

If the fiscal deficit is not reduced and debt financing is insufficient, the Government may be forced to continue its reliance on BCRA financing.

Any such increase in Argentina’s deficit could have a negative effect on the Government’s ability to access to the long-term financial markets, and in turn, could limit the access to such markets for Argentine companies, such as Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries. The same may have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations and the trading price for its ADSs.

Exposure to multiple provincial and municipal tax legislation and regulations could adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business or results of operations.

Argentina has a federal system of government with 23 provinces and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Each of these, under the Argentine national constitution, has full power to enact legislation concerning taxes. Likewise, within each province, municipal governments have broad powers to regulate said matters. Given that the bank branches of our subsidiary, Banco Galicia, are located in multiple provinces, we are subject to various provincial and municipal legislation and regulations that may vary from time to time. Future developments in provincial and municipal legislation concerning taxes, provincial regulations or other matters could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s expenses and business, results of operations and financial condition and, thus, on the trading prices for its ADSs.

The novel coronavirus has had and could continue to have an adverse effect on our business operations.

In late December 2019 a notice of pneumonia originating from Wuhan, Hubei province (COVID-19, caused by a novel coronavirus) was reported to the World Health Organization, with cases soon confirmed in multiple provinces in China, as well as in other countries. Several measures were undertaken by the Chinese government and other countries to control the coronavirus, including the use of quarantine, lockdown and severe restrictions on the movement of their respective populations by certain air carriers and foreign governments. Since such initial outbreak, COVID-19 has been declared a pandemic and the virus spread and continues to spread globally, as of the date of this annual report, affecting more than 148 countries and territories around the world, including Argentina. Also, new variants of COVID-19 were reported during 2020 and 2021. Particularly, variants from the United Kingdom, South Africa and Brazil appear to be spreading more quickly and easily, which has led to an increase in COVID-19 cases. In addition, as of the date of this report, some vaccines have been granted emergency use authorizations worldwide. In Argentina, up to the date of this report, 4 vaccines have been approved for distribution (Sputnik V, Russia; Covishield, India; Sinpharm, China; and AstraZeneca, UK) and 1.8% of the national population has been vaccinated with two doses, according to the Argentine Ministry of Health.

COVID-19 has caused and may continue to cause significant social and market disruption. The long-term effects to the global economy and to Grupo Financiero Galicia of epidemics, pandemics and other public health crises, such as COVID-19, are difficult to assess or predict, and may include risks to employee’s health and safety, and reduce our business operations. Any prolonged restrictive measures put in place to control an outbreak of a contagious disease or virus or other adverse public health development in any of our targeted markets may have a material and adverse effect on our business operations.


In addition to the foregoing, in 2020, the general macroeconomic conditions worsened as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to INDEC, during the fourth quarter of 2020, GDP declined by 4.3% year over year. Further, during the fourth quarter of 2020, economic activity declined by 9.9% year over year. These conditions also led to an increase in poverty, which, according to INDEC, as of second half of 2020 had affected more than 42% of the population.

Additionally, we may also be affected by a decline in the demand of our services, or the need to implement policies limiting the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations, including the implementation of work from home policies. The impact epidemics, pandemics and other health crises, such as COVID-19 may have on the methods we use to sell and distribute our products and services, on our human capital resources productivity, and on the ability of our suppliers and consultants to provide goods and services and other resources in a timely manner to support our business, are also impossible to assess or predict at this moment.

According to a report published by PricewaterhouseCoopers1, in which the main Argentine financial institutions participated in order to measure the impact of COVID-19 on the industry during 2020, it is estimated that the economic/financial situation will worsen in the short term and could slightly improve on 2021. Likewise, according to Moody’s Argentina2 in its report issued on April, 2021 despite the stress scenario due to the pandemic, the Argentine financial system has shown a high resilience to the decrease in the level of activity, maintaining default ratios in line with what has been reported historically and high levels of capitalization and liquidity.

Furthermore, certain measures imposed by the Government, such as travel restrictions, border closures and lock-down measures which have forced us to set in place work from home arrangements for our employees, may also have a material impact on our ability to operate and achieve our business goals.

Considering the current health crisis, and the related halt in economy the world is facing, we may also experience higher default rates on the financings granted to our clients, liquidity deficiencies, difficulties in our ability to service our debts and other financial obligations. We may also face difficulties in trying to access to debt and capital markets and be forced to refinance preexisting financing arrangements. Although the actual impact is impossible to assess, the occurrence of any of such events could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Finally, it is unclear whether these challenges and uncertainties will be contained or resolved, and what effects they may have on the global political and economic conditions in the long term. Neither can we predict how the disease will evolve and spread in Argentina, nor forecast the impact of the new variants of the virus. We are not able to anticipate whether Argentina can successfully and widely distribute COVID-19 vaccines in 2021. Finally, the measures implemented by the Government since March 2020 to address the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in a slowdown in economic activity that adversely affected economic growth in 2020 and will continue to do so in 2021, to a degree that we cannot quantify as of the date of this report. The prior and ongoing impact of COVID-19 could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, results of operations and financial condition and, thus, on the trading prices for its ADSs.

The Argentine economy could be negatively affected by external factors that have an impact in the entire world, such as COVID-19’s spread and the subsequent implementation of measures designed to deal with the mentioned pandemic, and its economic impact both on a local and an international level.

The Argentine economy is vulnerable to external factors. In this sense, most economies in the world (including Argentina and its main trade partners) are being affected by the spread of COVID-19. The virus’ progression, which has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, has led to the application of measures throughout 2020 that have had a severe economic impact.

1

https://www.pwc.com.ar/es/servicios/consultoria/infografia-sondeo-covid-entidades-financieras.pdf

2

https://www.moodyslocal.com/c086ca95-c9ec-4147-9846-ba1027ac4f5c

In Argentina, these measures included the implementation of a generalized quarantine with the intention of hindering the virus’ spread and to avoid the collapse of the local health system. This entailed a halt in most economic activities (excluding essential ones, such as healthcare services, manufacturing of food products, medical equipment or pharmaceuticals, supermarkets and pharmacies, and the provision of security forces) and the suspension of road and air travel, among others.

These measures, and any others the Argentine government might implement in the future, have had a negative and direct impact on the country’s economy, by reducing both aggregate supply and demand.

Additionally, the progression of the virus and the resulting measures destined to fight the virus affected and could continue to affect economic growth in Argentina’s trade partners (such as Brazil, the European Union, China, and the United States). In 2020, the contraction of the economies of trade partners had a sizeable and adverse impact on Argentina’s trade balance and economy through a fall in the demand for Argentine exports of 15.7% as compared to the previous year.

On the other hand, higher uncertainty levels associated with the progress of a global pandemic could exacerbate financial conditions’ volatility, particularly in emerging markets, which could pose a threat to Argentina’s currency and financing availability.

Any of these potential risks to the Argentine economy could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, results of operations and financial condition and, thus, on the trading prices for its ADSs.

Failure to adequately address actual and perceived risks arising from institutional deterioration and corruption could adversely affect Argentina’s economy and financial position and the ability of Argentine companies to attract foreign investment.

The lack of a solid institutional framework and corruption have been identified as serious problems for Argentina and may continue to be. In Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2020, which measures corruption in 180 countries, Argentina ranked No. 78. In the World Bank’s “Doing Business” report in 2020, which measures the regulations that enhance business activity and those that constrain it, Argentina Ranked No.126 out of 190 countries. The failure to address these issues could increase the risk of political instability, distort the decision-making process, adversely affect Argentina’s international reputation and its ability and the ability of its companies to attract foreign investment.

A deterioration in the Argentine reputation could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations and, thus, on the trading price for the its ADSs.

Risk Factors Relating to the Argentine Financial System

The stability of the Argentine financial system is dependent upon the ability of financial institutions, including Banco Galicia, the main subsidiary of Grupo Financiero Galicia, to maintain and increase the confidence of depositors.

The measures implemented by the Argentine government in late 2001 and early 2002, in particular the restrictions imposed on depositors to withdraw money freely from banks and the pesification and restructuring of their deposits, were strongly opposed by depositors due to the losses on their savings and undermined their confidence in the Argentine financial system and in all financial institutions operating in Argentina.

If depositors once again withdraw their money from banks in the future, there may be a substantial negative impact on the manner in which financial institutions, including Banco Galicia, conduct their business, and on their ability to operate as financial intermediaries. Loss of confidence in the international financial markets may also adversely affect the confidence of Argentine depositors in local banks.

An adverse economic situation, even if it is not related to the financial system, could trigger a massive withdrawal of capital from local banks by depositors, as an alternative to protect their assets from potential crises. Any massive withdrawal of deposits could cause liquidity issues in the financial sector and, consequently, a contraction in credit supply.

The occurrence of any of the above could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s expenses and business, results of operations and financial condition and, thus, on the trading prices for its ADSs.

If financial intermediation activity volumes relative to GDP are not restored to significant levels, the capacity of financial institutions, including Banco Galicia, the main subsidiary of Grupo Financiero Galicia, to generate profits may be negatively affected.affected.

As a result of the 2001-20021999-2002 financial crisis (in which the Argentine economy fell 18.4%), the volume of financial intermediation activity dropped dramatically: private sector credit plummeted from 24% of GDP in December 2000 to 7.7% in June 2004 and total deposits as a percentage of GDP fell from 31% to 23.2% during the same period. The depth of the crisis and the effect it had on depositors’ confidence in the financial system created uncertainty regarding its ability to act as an intermediary between savings and credit.

Furthermore, the ratio of the total financial system’s private-sector deposits and loans to GDP remains low when compared to international levels and continues to be lower than the periods prior to the crisis, especially in the case of private-sectorlevels. Private-sector deposits and loans which amounted to 20.7%19.1% and 10.6%10.3% of GDP, respectively, as of December 31, 2018.2020.

There is no assurance that financial intermediation activities will continue in a manner sufficient to reach the necessary volumes to provide financial institutions, including Banco Galicia, with sufficient capacity to generate income, or that those actions will be sufficient to prevent Argentine financial institutions, such as Banco Galicia, from having to assume excessive risks in terms of maturity mismatches. Under these circumstances, for an undetermined period of time, the scale of operations of Argentine-based financial institutions, including Banco Galicia, their business volume, the size of their assets and liabilities or their income-generation capacity could be much lower than before the 1999-2002 crisis which may, in turn, impact the results of operations of Banco Galicia and, potentially, the trading price for Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ADSs.

The Argentine financial system’s growth and income, including that of Banco Galicia, the main subsidiary of Grupo Financiero Galicia, depend in part on the development of medium- and long-term funding sources.

In spite of the fact that the financial system’s and Banco Galicia’s deposits continue to grow, they are mostly demand or short-term time deposits and the sources of medium- and long-term funding for financial institutions are currently limited. If Argentine financial institutions, such as Banco Galicia, are unable to access adequate sources of medium and long-term funding or if they are required to pay high costs in order to obtain the same and/or if they cannot generate profits and/or maintain their current volume and/or scale of their business, this may adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ability to honor its debts.


Argentine financial institutions (including Banco Galicia) continue to have exposure to public sector debt (including securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank)BCRA) and its repayment capacity, which in periods of economic recession, may negatively affect their results of operations.

Argentine financial institutions continue to be exposed, to some extent, to the public sector debt and its repayment capacity. The Argentine government’s ability to honor its financial obligations is dependent on, among other things, its ability to establish economic policies that succeed in fostering sustainable growth and development in the long term, generating tax revenues and controlling public expenditures, which could, either partially or totally, fail to take place.

Banco Galicia’s exposure to the public sector as of MarchDecember 31, 20192020 was Ps.124,058Ps.238,654 million, representing approximately 22%25% of its total consolidated assets and 240%160% of its shareholders’ equity. Of this total, Ps.99,480Ps.58,141 million were Argentine Central BankBCRA debt instruments, Ps.24,535Ps.128,325 million corresponded to Argentine government securities, while the remaining Ps.43Ps.60,996 million corresponded to other receivables resulting from financial brokerage. As a result, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s income-generating capacity may be materially impacted or may be particularly affected by the Argentine public sector’s repayment capacity and the performance of public sector bonds, which, in turn, is dependent on the factors referred to above. Banco Galicia’s ability to honor its financial obligations may be adversely affected by the Argentine government’s repayment capacity or its failure to meet its obligations in respect of Argentine government obligations owed to Banco Galicia.

The Consumer Protection Law may limit some of the rights afforded to Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries.

Argentine Law No.24,240 (the(as amended by Law No. 26,361, Law No. 27,250, Law No. 27,265 and Law No. 27,266, the “Consumer Protection Law”) sets forth a series of rules and principles designed to protect consumers, which include Banco Galicia’s customers. The Consumer Protection Law was amended by Law No.26,361 on March 12, 2008 (as amended by Laws No.27,250 and 27,265 in 2016) to expand its applicability, rights granted to consumers and the penalties associated with violations thereof. Additionally, Law No.25,065 (as amended by Law No.26,010 and Law No.26,361, the “Credit Card Law”) also sets forth public policy regulations designed to protect credit card holders. On October 1, 2014, a newAdditionally, the Civil and Commercial Code was sanctioned, which captured the principles of Consumer Protection Law and established their application to banking agreements.

On September 17, 2014, Law No.26,993 was enacted, which created a “System to Solve Disputes in Consumer Relationships”, introducing new administrative and legal procedures within the framework of the Consumer Protection Law; namely, an administrative and a judicial regime for such matters. Additionally, the BCRA issued Communication “A” 6072, as supplemented and amended, granting broad protection to financial services customers, limiting fees and charges that financial institutions may validly collect from their clients.

The application of both the Consumer Protection Law and the Credit Card Law by administrative authorities and courts at the federal, provincial and municipal levels has increased. This trend has led to an increase in general consumer protection levels. In the event that Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries are found to be liable for violations of any of the provisions of the Consumer Protection Law or the Credit Card Law, the potential penalties could limit some of Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries’ rights, for example, with respect to their ability to collect payments due from services and financing provided by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries, and adversely affect their financial results of operations. There can be no assurance that court and administrative rulings based on the newly enacted regulation or measures adopted by the enforcement authorities will not increase the degree of protection given to its debtors and other customers in the future, or that they will not favor the claims brought by consumer groups or associations. ThisFinally, in October 2020, a committee of the Argentine Senate started to debate a draft law intended to fully modify the Consumer Protection Law, the outcome of which is currently uncertain.

The above changes as well as potential future changes may prevent or hinder the collection of payments resulting from services rendered and financing granted by Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries, which may have an adverse effect on their results and operations.operations and, in turn, on the trading price for the ADSs.

The maintenance or implementation of measures regarding the charging of fees and regulated rates could materially and adversely affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s consolidated financial condition and results of operations

The BCRA has various regulations regarding the fees and interest rates that entities can charge in the banking business. One of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s primary subsidiaries, Banco Galicia, is required to comply with the applicable regulations. Interest rates and regulated fees (e.g. setting caps on the rates and fees that an entity can charge its customers) could affect the interest rates and fees earned by Banco Galicia, which could result in a reduction in Grupo Financiero Galicia’s consolidated income or a decrease in customer demand for Banco Galicia’s loan or deposit products. In addition, if Banco Galicia were permitted to (and actually did) increase the interest rates and fees it charged (or if the same were otherwise raised by the BCRA or otherwise), such increases could result in higher debt service obligations for Banco Galicia’s customers; which could, in turn, result in higher levels of delinquent loans or discourage customers from borrowing. Interest rates and regulated fees are highly sensitive to many factors beyond Banco Galicia’s control, such as regulation of the financial sector in Argentina, domestic and international economic and political conditions, among other factors. Changes in the demand for our subsidiaries services and/or increases in the levels of delinquency of their customers could have a material and adverse effect on their businesses and, in turn, on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, results of operations and financial condition and on the trading price for it ADSs.

Class actions against financial institutions for an indeterminate amount may adversely affect the profitability of the financial system and of Banco Galicia, specifically.

Certain public and private organizations have initiated class actions against financial institutions in Argentina, including Banco Galicia. Class actions are contemplated in the Argentine National Constitution and the Consumer Protection Law, but their use is not regulated. The courts, however, have admitted class actions in spite of lacking specific regulations, providing some guidance with respect to the procedures for the same. These courts have admitted several complaints filed against financial institutions to defend collective interests, based on arguments that object to charges applied to certain products, applicable interest rates and the advisory services rendered in the sale of government securities, among others.


Final judgments entered against financial institutions under these class actions may affect the profitability of financial institutions in general and of Banco Galicia specifically in relation to class actions filed against Banco Galicia. For further information regarding class actions brought against Banco Galicia, please refer to the Item 8. “Financial Information”A. “Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information”—“Legal Proceedings”— “Banco Galicia”. To the extent that the profitability of Banco Galicia is impacted by the foregoing, the same could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, results of operations and financial condition and on the trading price for it ADSs.

Administrative procedures filed by the tax authorities of certain provinces against financial institutions, such as Banco Galicia (the primary subsidiary of Grupo Financiero Galicia) and amendments to tax laws applicable to Grupo Financiero Galicia could generate losses for Grupo Financiero Galicia.

In the last years, City of Buenos Aires tax authorities, as well as certain provincial tax authorities, have initiated administrative proceedings against financial institutions in order to collect higher gross income taxes from such financial institutions beginning in 2002 and onward.institutions.

Although Banco Galicia believes it has met its tax obligations regarding current regulations and has properly recorded provisions for those risks based on the opinions and advice of its external legal advisors and pursuant to the applicable accounting standards, certain risks may render those provisions inadequate. Tax authorities may not agree with Grupo Financiero Galicia’s tax treatment, possibly leading to an increase in its tax liabilities.

Moreover, amendments to existing regulations may increase Grupo Financiero Galicia’s tax rate and a material increase in the tax burden could adversely affect its financial results.results, results of operations and the trading price for its ADSs.

Risk Factors Relating to Us

Grupo Financiero Galicia may be unable to repay its financial obligations or dividends due to a lack of liquidity it may suffer because of being a holding company.

Grupo Financiero Galicia, as a holding company, conducts its operations through its subsidiaries. Consequently, it does not operate or hold substantial assets, except for equity investments in its subsidiaries. Except for such assets, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ability to invest in its business development and/or to repay obligations is subject to the funds generated by its subsidiaries and their ability to pay cash dividends. In the absence of such funds, Grupo Financiero Galicia may be forced to resort to financing options at unappealing prices, rates and conditions. Additionally, such financing could be unavailable when Grupo Financiero Galicia may need it.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries are under no obligation to pay any amount to enable Grupo Financiero Galicia to carry out investment activities and/or to cancel its liabilities or to give Grupo Financiero Galicia funds for such purposes. Each of the subsidiaries is a legal entity separate from Grupo Financiero Galicia, and due to certain circumstances, legal or contractual restrictions, as well as to the subsidiaries’ financial condition and operating requirements, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ability to receive dividends and its ability to develop its business and/or to comply with payment obligations could be limited. Under certain regulations, Banco Galicia has restrictions relating to dividend distributions. In addition, as of the date hereof, due to the regulations recently passed

Notwithstanding

by the fact thatBCRA within the repaymentframework of the measures taken by the government to respond to the COVID-19, the capacity of the Argentine financial system to pay cash dividends has been suspended until June 30, 2021. As such, obligationsno dividends will be paid to Grupo Financiero Galicia prior to such date and such prohibition could be afforded by Grupo Galicia through other means, such as bank loans or new issues in the capital market, investorsextended.

Investors should take notice of the above, prior to deciding on their investment in equity in Grupo Galicia.Financiero Galicia as a failure to receive the noted dividends may materially and adversely impact the ability of Grupo Financiero Galicia to pay any amounts in respect of the ADSs. For further information on dividend distribution restrictions, see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”.


In the context of the COVID-19 outbreak, the BCRA restricted the ability of Argentine financial institutions to distribute dividends

In the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the BCRA issued, on March 19, 2020, Communication “A” 6939, which suspended the ability of Argentine financial institutions to distribute dividends until June 30, 2020, in order to maintain the lending capacity of the financial institutions. This suspension was later extended by communication “A” 7035 until December 31, 2020, and then by communication “A” 7181 until June 30, 2021.

As the measures taken by the administration to control the fallout from COVID-19 are recent, uncertain, and changing rapidly, it is difficult to predict the full impact of full measures on Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries, nor can we predict whether Grupo Financiero Galicia would be able to make contributions to its subsidiaries as a consequence of this measure. Investors should take notice of the above, prior to deciding on their investment in equity in Grupo Financiero Galicia as a failure to receive the noted dividends may materially and adversely impact the ability of Grupo Financiero Galicia to pay any amounts in respect of the ADSs. For further information on the effects of COVID-19, see Item 3. “Key Information” – D. “Risk Factors” - “The novel coronavirus could have an adverse effect on our business operations”. For further information on dividend distribution restrictions, see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”.

Corporate governance standards and disclosure policies that govern companies listing their shares pursuant to the public offering system in Argentina may differ from those regulating highly developed capital markets, such as the U.S. As a foreign private issuer, Grupo Financiero Galicia applies disclosure policies and requirements that differ from those governing U.S. domestic registrants.

Argentine disclosure requirements are more limited than those in the United States and differ in important respects. As a foreign private issuer, Grupo Financiero Galicia is subject to different disclosure policies and other requirements than a domestic U.S. registrant. For example, as a foreign private issuer in the U.S., Grupo Financiero Galicia is not subject to the same requirements and disclosure policies as a domestic U.S. registrant under the Exchange Act, including the requirements to prepare and issue financial statements, report on significant events and the standards applicable to domestic U.S. registrants under Section 14 of the Exchange Act or the insider reporting and short-swing profit rules applicable to domestic U.S. registrants.

In addition, although Argentine laws provide for certain requirements that are similar to those prevailing in the U.S. in relation to publicly listed companies (including, for example, those related to price manipulation), in general, applicable Argentine laws are different to those in the U.S. and in certain aspects may provide different or fewer protections or remedies as compared to U.S. laws. Further, Grupo Financiero Galicia relies on exemptions from certain Nasdaq rules that are applicable to domestic companies.

Accordingly, the corporate information available about Grupo Financiero Galicia is not the same as, and may be more limited than, the information available to shareholders of a U.S. company.

The price of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ordinary shares may fluctuate significantly, and your investment may decline in value.

The price of Grupo Financiero Galicia´s ordinary shares may fluctuate significantly in response to several factors, many of which are beyond our control, including those described in this annual report under “Risk Factors Relating to Argentina” and “Risk Factors Relating to the Argentine Financial System”.

The stock markets in general, and the shares of emerging market in particular, have experienced price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of the companies involved. Grupo Financiero Galicia cannot assure that any trading price or valuation will be sustained. These factors may materially and adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares, which may limit or prevent investors from readily selling Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ordinary shares and may otherwise affect liquidity, regardless of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s operating performance.

Market fluctuations, as well as general political and economic conditions in the markets in which we operate, such as recessions or currency exchange rate fluctuations, may also adversely affect the market price of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s ordinary shares and the ADSs.

Adverse conditions in the credit, capital and foreign exchange markets may have a material adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, financial position and results of operations and adversely impact it by limiting its ability to access funding sources.

Grupo Financiero Galicia may sustain losses relating to its investments in fixed- or variable-income securities on the exchange market and its monetary position due to, among other reasons, changes in market prices, defaults and fluctuations in interest rates and in exchange rates. A deterioration in the capital markets may cause Grupo Financiero Galicia to record net losses due to a decrease in the value of its investment portfolios, in addition to losses caused by the volatility in financial market prices, even if the economy overall is not affected. Any of these losses could have an adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations.operations, business and financial condition and, in turn, on the trading price for the ADSs.

DueThe occurrence of an operational risk impacting any of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s businesses, could disrupt its business functions and have a negative impact on its results of operations.

As with other financial institutions, operational risks could arise in any of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s businesses. These risks may include losses resulting from inadequate or failed internal and external processes, systems or human error, fraud, the effects of natural or man-made catastrophic events (such as natural disasters or pandemics) or from other external events. Exposure to such events could disrupt Grupo Financiero Galicia’s systems and operations significantly, which may result in financial losses and reputational damage.

Pandemics and other material public health problems could result in social, economic or labor instability in the world and domestically and disrupt the operations of our business. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in travel restrictions and extended shutdowns of certain businesses in many regions.

The main risk factors identified in the last risk assessment undertaken by our Risk Management Division were system failures, adverse legal decisions and economic losses generated by fraud. Although we have implemented numerous controls to avoid the occurrence of inefficient or fraudulent operations, errors can occur and compound even before being detected and corrected. In addition, some of our transactions are not fully automatic, which may increase the risk of human error or manipulation, and it may be difficult to detect losses quickly. The occurrence of any one or more of the above events could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, and results of operations and, in turn, on the trading price for the ADSs.

An increase in cybersecurity breaches or fraudulent and other illegal activity involving Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries could lead to reputational damage to Grupo Financiero Galicia’s adoption(or its subsidiaries’) brands and could reduce the use and acceptance of its and its subsidiaries’ products, therefore adversely affecting its business and results of operations.

The business of many of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries depends on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of its data processing systems, its platforms for the exchange of information and its digital networks.

Many of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries have access to a large amount of confidential information about their respective clients. Therefore, cybersecurity breaches represent a potential risk for Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Cybersecurity breaches can result in, for example, identity fraud, phishing, ransomware, information leaks, APT (Advanced Persistent Threat), DDoS Attacks (Distributed Denial of Service) or the theft of sensitive and confidential information, and may affect negatively the security of information that is stored and transmitted through the information systems and network infrastructure of Grupo Financiero Galicia and negatively affect the reputation of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s brands, thereby causing existing and potential clients to refrain from conducting business with Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries.

In spite of all existing security measures, Grupo Financiero Galicia cannot provide any assurance that the systems are invulnerable to cybersecurity breaches or that the mentioned measures will be successful in protecting against any such breach. In addition, any of the aforementioned events could lead to an increase in compliance costs for Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries. If any of the above described events were to occur, it could lead to monetary losses and reputational damage to Grupo Financiero Galicia’s brands, which could reduce the use and acceptance of its products, greater regulation, and increased compliance costs, therefore adversely affect its business and results of operation and the trading price for its ADSs.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries estimate and establish reserves for potential credit risk or future credit losses, which may be inadequate or insufficient, and which may, in turn, materially and adversely affect its financial position and results of operations.

Pursuant to the implementation of IFRS beginning January 1, 2018,9, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s internal controls oversubsidiaries establish reserves for potential credit risk and losses related to changes in the levels of income of debtors/borrowers, increased rates of inflation, increased levels of non-performing loans or an increase in interest rates. This process requires a complex methodology mixing probability of default (“PD”), loss given default (“LGD”) and exposure at default (“EAD”), including economic projections and assumptions regarding the ability of debtors to repay their loans.

Therefore, if in the future Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries are unable to effectively control the level of quality of their loan portfolio, if loan loss reserves are inadequate to cover future losses, or if they are required to increase their loan loss reserves due to an increase in the amount of their non-performing loans, the financial position and the results of operations of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries may be materially and adversely affected and, in turn, the trading prices for the ADSs.

If Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries should fail to meet regulatory standards or expectations or detect money laundering and other illegal or inappropriate activities in a comprehensive or timely manner. Grupo Financiero Galicia´s subsidiaries may incur fines, penalties, reputational harm and other negative consequences.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries must be in compliance with all applicable laws against money laundering, funding of terrorist activities and other regulations. These laws and regulations require, among other things, that Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries adopt and implement control policies and procedures which involve “know your customer” principles that comply with the applicable regulations and reporting suspicious or unusual transactions to the applicable regulatory authorities. As such, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries maintain systems and procedures designed to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations. However, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries are subject to heightened compliance and regulatory oversight and expectations, particularly due to the evolving and increasing regulatory landscape that they operate in. Further, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries could become subject to future regulatory requirements beyond those currently proposed, adopted or contemplated. The cumulative effect of all of the legislation and regulations on their business, operations and profitability remains uncertain. This uncertainty necessitates that Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries make certain assumptions with respect to the scope and requirements of the proposed rules in their business planning. If these assumptions prove incorrect, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries could be subject to increased regulatory and compliance risks and costs as well as potential reputational harm.

In addition, a single event or issue may give rise to numerous and overlapping investigations and proceedings in different jurisdictions. Also, the laws and regulations in jurisdictions in which Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries operate may be different or even conflict with each other as to the products and services

offered by Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries or other business activities Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries may engage in, which can lead to compliance difficulties or issues. Furthermore, many legal and regulatory regimes require Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries to report transactions and other information to regulators and other governmental authorities’ self-regulatory organizations, exchanges, clearing houses and customers. Grupo Financiero Galicia´s subsidiaries may be subject to fines, penalties, restrictions on our business, or other negative consequences if they do not timely, completely, or accurately provide regulatory reports, customer notices or disclosures, or make tax-related withholdings or payments, on behalf of themselves or their customers.

While Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries have adopted policies and procedures intended to detect and prevent the use of their networks for money laundering activities and by terrorists, terrorist organizations and other types of organizations, those policies and procedures may fail to fully eliminate the risk that Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries have been or are currently being used by other parties, without their knowledge, to engage in activities related to money laundering or other illegal activities. Moreover, some legal/regulatory frameworks provide for the imposition of fines or penalties for noncompliance even though the noncompliance was inadvertent or unintentional and even though there was in place at the time, systems and procedures designed to ensure compliance. For example, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries are subject to regulations issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) that prohibit financial institutions from participating in the transfer of property belonging to the governments of certain foreign countries and designated nationals of those countries. OFAC may impose penalties or restrictions on certain activities for inadvertent or unintentional violations even if reasonable processes are in place to prevent the violations. Any violation of the applicable laws or regulatory requirements, even if inadvertent or unintentional, or any failure to meet regulatory standards or expectations, including any failure to satisfy the conditions of any consent orders, could result in fees, penalties, restrictions on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries ability to engage in certain business activities, reputational harm, loss of customers or other negative consequences all of which could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s business, financial condition and operations and, in turn, on the trading price for the ADSs.

A disruption or failure in Grupo Financiero Galicia’s information technology system could adversely affect its operations and financial position.

The success of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries is dependent upon the efficient and uninterrupted operation of their communications and computer hardware systems, including those systems related to the operation of their ATM networks and digital channels. Grupo Financiero Galicia’s communications, systems or transactions could be harmed or disrupted by power failures, data breaches, cyber-attacks, acts of terrorism, physical theft, reputational damage and similar events or disruptions. Any of the foregoing events may cause disruptions in Grupo Financiero Galicia’s systems, delays in the provision of and/or the loss of critical data and could prevent it from operating at optimal levels. In addition, the contingency plans in place may not be effective, resulting in increased operationalsufficient to cover all those events and, therefore, this may mean that the applicable insurance coverage is limited or inadequate, preventing Grupo Financiero Galicia (or its subsidiaries) from receiving full compensation for the losses sustained as a result of such a global disruption. If any of these events occur, it could damage the reputation, entail serious costs to comply with its financial reporting obligations, therefore adversely affectiveand affect Grupo Financiero Galicia’s transactions, as well as its results of operations, business and financial reporting process.

Grupo Galicia adopted IFRS effective as of January 1, 2018position and, Grupo Galicia’s financial statementsin turn, the trading price for the year ended December 31, 2018 are its first financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.  In connection with this transition, Grupo Galicia has faced challenging and complex changes to its accounting and financial reporting procedures. ADSs.

The implementation of Grupo Galicia’s existing internal control mechanisms and corporate governance processes in light of its adoption of IFRS may not be effective. As a result, Grupo Galicia may have to invest significant time and financial resources to restructuring its internal controls and corporate governance processes to comply with its financial reporting obligations, thus resulting in increased operational costs and therefore adversely affecting Grupo Galicia’s results of operations and financial reporting process.

As of July 1, 2018, theArgentine Peso qualifies as a currency of a hyperinflationary economy, and Grupo Financiero Galicia is required to apply inflationary adjustments to its financial statements, which adjustments could adversely affect its financial statements, results of operations and financial condition.

Pursuant to IAS 29 (Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies), the financial statements of entities whose functional currency is that of a hyperinflationary economy must be restated inusing a suitable general price index to control for the effects of changes. IAS 29 does not prescribe when hyperinflation arises,but rather provides for several characteristics indicating hyperinflationFurther, such regulation requires that the financial statements of an entity whose functional currency is one of a hyperinflationary economy be measured in an economy. In addition,terms of the IASB does not identify specific hyperinflationary jurisdictions.current unit of measurement at the closing date of the reporting period. In June 2018, the International Practices Task Force of the Centre for Quality, which monitors “highly inflationary countries”, categorized Argentina as a country with a projected three-year cumulative inflation rate greater than 100%. Additionally, some of the other qualitative factors of IAS 29 were present. Argentine companies applying IFRS are required to apply IAS 29 to their financial statements for periods ending on and after July 1, 2018. In addition, certain regulatory authorities, such as the Argentine Securities Commission


(Comisión Nacional de Valores) (“CNV”), have required thatthrough Resolution No. 777/18 established the method to restate financial statements submitted to the CNV for the periods ended on and after December 31, 2018in constant currency to be restated for inflationapplied by issuers subject to oversight of the CNV, in accordance with IAS 29.

For

Law No. 27,468 delegated to the BCRA, in the case of financial entities, the entry into force of new regulations. Likewise, for purposes of the determination of the indexation for tax purposes, Law No.27,468, enacted on December 4, 2018, substituted the Wholesale Price Index for CPI and modified the standards triggering tax indexation procedures. ForDuring the first three fiscal years beginningafter January 1, 2018, suchthe tax indexation will be applicable if the variation of the CPI exceeds 55% in 2018, 30% in 2019 and 15% in 2020. The tax indexation determined during any such year will be allocated as follows: 1/36 in that same year, and the remaining 2/35/6 in equal parts in the following twofive years. From January 1, 2021, the tax indexation procedure will be triggered under similar standards as those set forth by IAS 29.

Grupo Financiero Galicia cannot predict the full impact of the application of such tax indexation procedures and the related adjustments on its financial statements or the effects of such tax indexation procedures on its business, results of operations and financial condition.condition (or on the trading price for its ADSs).

Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries estimateSmall spreads in interest rates between loans and establish reserves for potential credit risk or future credit losses, which may be inadequate or insufficient, and which may, in turn, materially and adversely affect itsdeposits, could harm our financial position and results of operations.

Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries estimateWe carry out our operations in a country that is subject to frequent regulatory changes, high inflation and establish reservesfrequent currency devaluations. As a result, interest rates fluctuate frequently with direct impacts on the main source of income for potential credit riskthe business of our subsidiaries.

These fluctuations may generate losses based on the type of financing granted, the value of the interest rate for the financing and the other terms of the loans extended. For example, in such a volatile country, the granting of long-term loans with fixed rates can result in severe monetary losses relatedif the interest rate earned on the loans extended does not exceed the interest that we (or our subsidiaries) pay on deposits we or they hold.

In addition to changesthis, the increasing competition we face from digital banks has forced us to offer lower interest rates than we otherwise would in order to remain competitive in the levels of income of debtors/borrowers, increased rates of inflation, increased levels of non-performingmarket. If we are not able to maintain profitable spreads between interest that we earn on the loans or an increase in interest rates. This process requires a complexthat we and subjective analysis, including economic projections and assumptions regarding the ability of debtors to repay their loans.

Therefore, if in the future Grupo Galicia’sour subsidiaries are unable to effectively control the level of quality of their loan portfolio, if loan loss reserves are inadequate to cover future losses, or if they are required to increase their loan loss reserves due to an increase in the amount of their non-performing loans, the financial positiongrant and the results of operations of Grupo Galicia’sinterest that we pay on the deposits that we and our subsidiaries may be materially and adversely affected.

If Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries should fail to meet regulatory standards or expectations, or detect money laundering and other illegal or inappropriate activities in a comprehensive or timely manner, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries may incur fines, penalties, reputational harm and other negative consequences.

Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries must be in compliance with all applicable laws against money laundering, funding of terrorist activities and other regulations. These laws and regulations require, among other things, that Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries adopt and implement control policies and procedures which involve “know your customer” principles that comply with the applicable regulations, and reporting suspicious or unusual transactions to the applicable regulatory authorities. As such, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries maintain systems and procedures designed to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations. However, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries are subject to heightened compliance and regulatory oversight and expectations, particularly due to the evolving and increasing regulatory landscape that they operate in. Further, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries could become subject to future regulatory requirements beyond those currently proposed, adopted or contemplated. The cumulative effect of all of the legislation and regulations on their business, operations and profitability remains uncertain. This uncertainty necessitates that Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries make certain assumptions with respect to the scope and requirements of the proposed rules in their business planning. If these assumptions prove incorrect, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries could be subject to increased regulatory and compliance risks and costs as well as potential reputational harm. In addition, a single event or issue may give rise to numerous and overlapping investigations and proceedings in different jurisdictions. Also, the laws and regulations in jurisdictions in which Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries operate may be different or even conflict with each other as to the products and services offered by Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries or other business activities Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries may engage in, which can lead to compliance difficulties or issues.

Furthermore, many legal and regulatory regimes require Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries to report transactions and other information to regulators and other governmental authorities, self-regulatory organizations, exchanges, clearing houses and customers. Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries are also required to withhold funds and make various tax-related payments, relating to their own tax obligations and those of their customers. Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries


may be subject to fines, penalties, restrictions onhold, our business, or other negative consequences if they do not timely, completely, or accurately provide regulatory reports, customer notices or disclosures, or make tax-related withholdings or payments, on behalf of themselves or their customers.

While Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries have adopted policies and procedures intended to detect and prevent the use of their networks for money laundering activities and by terrorists, terrorist organizations and other types of organizations, those policies and procedures may fail to fully eliminate the risk that Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries have been or are currently being used by other parties, without their knowledge, to engage in activities related to money laundering or other illegal activities. Moreover, some legal/regulatory frameworks provide for the imposition of fines or penalties for noncompliance even though the noncompliance was inadvertent or unintentional and even though there was in place at the time, systems and procedures designed to ensure compliance. For example, Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries are subject to regulations issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) that prohibit financial institutions from participating in the transfer of property belonging to the governments of certain foreign countries and designated nationals of those countries. OFAC may impose penalties or restrictions on certain activities for inadvertent or unintentional violations even if reasonable processes are in place to prevent the violations. Any violation of these or other applicable laws or regulatory requirements, even if inadvertent or unintentional, or any failure to meet regulatory standards or expectations, including any failure to satisfy the conditions of any consent orders, could result in fees, penalties, restrictions on Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries. ability to engage in certain business activities, reputational harm, loss of customers or other negative consequences.

A disruption or failure in Grupo Galicia’s information technology system could adversely affect its operations and financial position.

The success of Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries is dependent upon the efficient and uninterrupted operation of their communications and computer hardware systems, including those systems related to the operation of their ATM networks. Grupo Galicia’s communications, systems or transactions could be harmed or disrupted by fire, floods, power failures, defective telecommunications, computer viruses, electronic or physical theft and similar events or disruptions. Any of the foregoing events may cause disruptions in Grupo Galicia’s systems, delays and the loss of critical data, and could prevent it from operating at optimal levels. In addition, the contingency plans in place may not be sufficient to cover all those events and, therefore, this may mean that the applicable insurance coverage is limited or inadequate, preventing Banco Galicia from receiving full compensation for the losses sustained as a result of such a global disruption. If any of these events occur, it could damage the reputation, entail serious costs and affect Grupo Galicia’s transactions, as well as its results of operations and financial position.


An increasecondition may be materially adversely impacted and, in cybersecurity breaches or fraudulent and other illegal activity involving Grupo Galicia or its subsidiaries could lead to reputational damage to Grupo Galicia’s (or its subsidiaries’) brands and could reduce the use and acceptance of its and its subsidiaries’ products, therefore adversely affecting its business and results of operations.

The business of many of Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries depends on the efficient and uninterrupted operation of its data processing systems, its platforms for the exchange of information and its digital networks. Many of Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries have access to a large amount of confidential information about their respective clients. Therefore, cybersecurity breaches represent a potential risk for Grupo Galicia. Cybersecurity breaches that result in, for example, identity theft, phishing, ransomware, information leaks, APT (Advanced Persistent Threat), DDoS Attacks (Denial of Distributed Service) or the theft of personal and confidential information, could negatively affect the security of information that is stored and transmitted through the information systems and network infrastructure of Grupo Galicia and negatively affect the reputation of Grupo Galicia’s brands, thereby causing existing and potential clients to refrain from conducting business with Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries. Grupo Galicia cannot provide any assurance that the systems are invulnerable to cybersecurity breaches or that its existing security measures will be successful in protecting against any such breach. In addition, any of the aforementioned events could lead to an increase in compliance costs for Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries. If any of the above described events were to occur, it could lead to reputational damage to Grupo Galicia’s brands, which could reduce the use and acceptance of its products, greater regulation, and increased compliance costs, therefore adversely affect its business and results of operation andturn, the trading price for itsour ADSs.

FluctuationsProblems in operations due to failures in services contracted from external suppliers.

Due to the valuenature of the Peso could adversely affect Argentine economic growth and Argentina’s international reservesbusiness and the financial situationsize of our business, many of our computer systems and operations depend on services contracted from external suppliers. This prevents us from controlling, in depth, the Grupo Galiciaoperation and its subsidiaries.

The devaluationprovision of the Peso could have asuch services. Performance or operational failures of outsourced services may result in operational losses or system failures, with subsequent negative impactimpacts on the ability of certain Argentine businesses to make timely payments on their foreign currency-denominated debt, could cause inflation, could cause a significant reduction in salaries in real terms, could put at risk the financial stability of companies, such as certain subsidiaries of Grupo Galicia, whose success depends on internal market demand and could also adversely affect the ability of the Argentine government to pay its foreign currency-denominated debt. In 2015, the Peso depreciated approximately 25% as compared to the Dollar, which included a 10% depreciation between January 1, 2015 and November 30, 2015 and a 16% devaluation during the last month of the year, the majority of which was concentrated in the period after December 16, 2015 once the government of Macri assumed control of the exchange rate put in place by the prior government. In 2016, the Peso lost approximately 28% of its value as compared to the Dollar and in 2017, the Peso lost approximately 11% of its value as compared to the Dollar. In 2018, an exchange rate crisis caused the Peso to lose approximately 53% of its value as compared to the Dollar.

From time to time, the Central Bank may intervene in the foreign exchange market to influence exchange rates. Purchases of Pesos by the Central Bank could cause a decrease in the international reserves of the Central Bank. A significant decrease in the Central Bank’s international reserves may have an adverse impact on Argentina’s ability to withstand external shocks to the economy, and any adverse effects to the Argentine economy could, in turn, adversely affect the financial position and business of Grupo Galicia and its subsidiaries.

Further, a significant depreciation of the Peso would, among other things, increase the cost of servicing certain of Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries’ foreign currency-denominated debt. Either a significant depreciation or appreciation could have a material adverse effect on the Argentine economy and Grupo Galicia’sour reputation, financial condition and results of operations.


Shortages in the availability of energy in Argentina could adversely affect the Argentine economy and hence the operation and business of Grupo Galicia and its subsidiaries.

The various economic crisis in the past in Argentina and the fixing of the tariff rates in the electricity sector have provoked a significant lack of infrastructure and business investment for the supply and transportation of natural gas and electricity. At the same time, the demand for the natural gas and electricity in Argentina has increased considerably due to the improving economic conditions in the country and the low cost of such services. To address such increase in demand, Argentina has needed to import natural gas from other countries. The Central Bank’s reserves have been frequently used by the government to pay for such imports. If the government is unable to pay to import natural gas to cover the energy deficit, the Argentine economy may suffer and Argentine businesses may be adversely affected.

Several measures have been adopted by the government in order to lessen the short term impact of the lack of energy for residential and industrial users. If these measures are not sufficient, or if the relevant investments are not timely made, the Argentine economy could be seriously affected, producing a negative impact on local business.

Since 2015, as a first step, tariff increases were implemented and subsidies to industries and to high income consumers were reduced. In February 2016, the government implemented various increases in tariffs and reductions in subsidies for gas and electricity users.

On August 18, 2016, the Supreme Court suspended the gas tariff increases for residential users and ordered public hearings in respect of such increases. The Argentine government, complying with this ruling, conducted public hearings on the matter in September 2016. During such hearings, the Secretary of Energy ratified the government’s plan to maintain such increases and to further increase the same. In October 2016, resolution No.212 – E/2016 established the new gas tariffs with an average increase of 200% for residential consumers and of 277% for most merchants, small and medium companies.

On September 27, 2016, Federal Judge No.3 of the Province of Cordoba suspended for the whole country the increase of gas tariffs for merchants, small and medium companies and ordered the imposition of the tariff regime in place on March 31, 2016 until December 27, 2016. Such resolution was appealed by the Argentine government. On September 6, 2016, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of increasing the electricity tariffs in the Province of Buenos Aires.

As a consequence of the above, the cost of energy has increased significantly in recent years, which increase may have an adverse effect on the Argentine economy and Grupo Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations.

High levels of public spending in Argentina could generate long lasting adverse consequences for the Argentine economy.

During recent years, the Argentine government has substantially increased the levels of its public spending. In 2016, public sector spending increased by 38.2% as compared to the prior year, and the government announced a primary fiscal deficit equal to 4.2% of GDP. In 2017, public sector spending increased by 21.8% as compared to the prior year, and the government announced a primary fiscal deficit equal to 3.8% of GDP. In 2018, public sector spending increased by 22.4% as compared to the prior year, and the government announced a primary fiscal deficit equal to 2.4%, with revenues increasing 30.2% for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

Despite the results of the year ended December 31, 2018, if public spending increases again outpace increases in revenues, the fiscal deficit is likely to increase, causing the Argentine government to seek assistance from the Central Bank and the National Administrator of Pensions.

Any such increase in the deficit could have a negative effect on the government’s ability to access to the long term financial markets,operations and, in turn, could limiton the accesstrading price for our ADSs.

Payments on class B shares or ADSs may be subject to such marketsFATCA withholding.

Pursuant to certain provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, commonly known as FATCA, a “foreign financial institution” may be required to withhold on certain payments it makes (“foreign pass thru payments”) to persons that fail to meet certain certification, reporting, or related requirements. We are a foreign financial institution for Argentine companies,these purposes. A number of jurisdictions have entered into, or have agreed in substance to, intergovernmental agreements with the United States to implement FATCA (“IGAs”), which modify the way in which FATCA applies in their jurisdictions. Certain aspects of the application of the FATCA provisions to instruments such as Grupo Galicia and its subsidiaries. The same may have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations.


Failure to adequately address actual and perceived risks arising from institutional deterioration and corruption could adversely affect Argentina’s economy and financial positionthe class B shares and the ability of Argentine companiesADSs, including whether withholding would ever be required pursuant to attract foreign investment.FATCA with respect to payments on instruments such as the class B shares or the ADSs, are uncertain and may be subject to change.

The lack of a solid institutional frameworkEven if withholding would be required pursuant to FATCA with respect to payments on instruments such as the class B shares and corruptionthe ADSs, proposed regulations have been identified as serious problems for Argentina, and may continueissued that provide that such withholding would

not apply prior to be.the date that is two years after the date on which final regulations defining “foreign passthru payments” are published in the U.S. Federal Register. In the Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2018, which measures corruptionpreamble to the proposed regulations, the U.S. Treasury Department indicated that taxpayers may rely on these proposed regulations until the issuance of final regulations. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding how these rules may apply to their investment in 180 countries, Argentina ranked No.85. In the World Bank’s “Doing Business” report in 2018, Argentina Ranked No.119 out of 190 countries. The failure to address these issues could increase the risk of political instability, distort the decision-making process, adversely affect Argentina’s international reputation and its abilityclass B shares and the ability of its companies to attract foreign investment. Although the Macri administration has announced several measures aimed at strengthening Argentina’s institutions and reducing corruption, the Argentine government’s ability to implement these initiatives is uncertain as it would require the involvement of the judiciary branch, which is independent, as well as legislative support from opposition parties and there can be no assurances that the implementation of such measures will be successful. A deterioration in the Argentine economy could have a material and adverse effect on Grupo Galicia’s financial condition and results of operations.ADSs.

 

Item 4.

Information on the Company

Item 4. Information on the Company

A. History and Development of the Company

Our legal name is Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. Our commercial name is Grupo Financiero Galicia or Grupo Galicia. We are a financial services holding company that was incorporated on September 14, 1999, as a sociedad anónima (which is a stock corporation) under the laws of Argentina. As a holding company we do not have operations of our own and conduct our business through our subsidiaries. Banco Galicia is our main subsidiary and one of Argentina’s largest full-service banks.

ThroughEcosistema NaranjaX is a commercial umbrella that is comprised of the operating subsidiaries of Tarjetas Regionales, in which Grupo Galicia has an 83% ownership interest,Regionales. Through it we provide proprietary brand credit cards, and consumer finance and digital banking services throughoutto the “Interior”underbanked population of Argentina. Argentines refer toFor further information, see Item 4. Information on the “Interior” as all of Argentina except for Buenos Aires and its surrounding areas (“Greater Buenos Aires”).Company – B. History – iii) Ecosistema NaranajaX below.

Through Sudamericana Holdings and its subsidiaries, we provide insurance products in Argentina. We directly or indirectly own other companies providing

Through Galicia Securities and Inviu we provide financial and brokerage related products as explained herein.

We are one of Argentina’s largest financial services groups with consolidated assets of Ps.569,692Ps.1,055,279 million as of December 31, 2018. For more information regarding the corporate reorganization of Tarjetas Regionales and the sale of Compañia Financiera Argentina S.A. (“CFA”), please see “History”.2020.

Our goal is to consolidate our position as one of Argentina’s leading comprehensive financial services providers while continuing to strengthen Banco Galicia’s position as one of Argentina’s leading banks. We seek to broaden and complement the operations and businesses of Banco Galicia, through holdings in companies and undertakings whose objectives are related to and/or can produce synergies with financial activities. Our non-banking subsidiaries operate in financial and related activities in which Banco Galicia either cannot participate or in which it can participate only on a limited basis due to restrictive banking regulations.

We are domiciled in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Under our bylaws, our corporate duration is until June 30, 2100. Our duration may be extended by a resolution passed at the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting. Our principal executive offices are located at Teniente General Juan D. Perón 430, Twenty-Fifth floor, (C1038AAJ), Buenos Aires, Argentina. Our telephone number is (54-11) 4343-7528 and our website is www.gfgsa.com.

Our agent for service of process in the United States is CT Corporation System, presently located at 111 8th Avenue, New York, New York 10011.

A.1 History


i) Grupo Financiero Galicia

Grupo Financiero Galicia was formed on September 14, 1999 as a financial services holding company to hold all the shares of the capital stock of Banco Galicia held by members of the Escasany, Ayerza and Braun families. Its initial nominal capital amounted to 24,000 common shares, 12,516 of which were designated as class A ordinary (common) shares (the “class A shares”) and 11,484 of which were designated as class B ordinary (common) shares (the “class B shares”).

Following Grupo Financiero Galicia’s formation, the holding companies that held the shares in Banco Galicia on behalf of the Escasany, Ayerza and Braun families were merged into Grupo Financiero Galicia. Following the merger, Grupo Financiero Galicia held 46.34% of the outstanding shares of Banco Galicia. In addition, and due to the merger, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s capital increased from 24,000 to 543,000,000 common shares, 281,221,650 of which were designated as class A shares and 261,778,350 of which were designated as class B shares. Following this capital increase, all of our class A shares were held by EBA Holding S.A., an Argentine corporation that is 100% owned by our controlling shareholders, and our class B shares were held directly by our controlling shareholders in an amount equal to their ownership interests in the holding companies that were merged into Grupo Financiero Galicia.

On May 16, 2000, our shareholders held an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting during which they unanimously approved a capital increase of up to Ps.628,704,540 and the public offering and listings of our class B shares. All the new common shares issued as a result of such capital increase were designated as class B shares, with a par value of Ps.1. During this extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, all of our existing shareholders waived their preemptive rights. In addition, the shareholders determined that the exchange ratio for the exchange offer would be one class B share of Banco Galicia for 2.5 of our class B shares and one ADS of Banco Galicia for one of our ADSs. The exchange offer was completed in July 2000 and the resulting capital increase was of Ps.549,407,017. Upon the completion of the exchange offer, our only significant asset was our 93.23% interest in Banco Galicia.

On January 2, 2004, our shareholders held an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting during which they approved a capital increase of up to 149,000,000 preferred shares, each of them mandatorily convertible into one of our class B shares on the first anniversary of the date of issuance. Such shares were to be subscribed for in up to US$100 million of face value of subordinated notes to be issued by Banco Galicia to its creditors in the restructuring of the foreign debt of its head office in Argentina (the “Head Office”) and its Cayman Branch, or in cash. This capital increase was carried out in connection with the restructuring of Banco Galicia’s foreign debt. On May 13, 2004, we issued 149,000,000 preferred non-voting shares, with preference over the ordinary shares in the event of liquidation, each with a face value of Ps.1. The preferred shares were converted into class B shares on May 13, 2005. With this capital increase, our capital increased to Ps.1,241,407,017.

In August 2007, Grupo Financiero Galicia exercised its preemptive rights in Banco Galicia’s issuance of shares and subscribed for 93.6 million shares of Banco Galicia. The consideration paid for such shares consisted of: (i) US$102.2 million face value of notes due 2014 issued by Banco Galicia in May 2004, and (ii) cash. After the capital increase, Grupo Financiero Galicia increased Banco Galicia’s shares from 93.60% to 94.66%.

In September 2013, Grupo Financiero Galicia announced that it had reached an agreement to absorb Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A. (entities that were shareholders of Banco Galicia at the moment of the merger). The consolidated financial statements prepared specifically for this merger were issued as of June 30, 2013 and the effective date of such merger was September 1, 2013.

This merger resulted in an increase of the ownership interest Grupo Financiero Galicia had in its principal subsidiary Banco Galicia in the amount of 25,454,193 class B shares, which also represented all of the total capital stock (4.526585%) Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A. had in Banco Galicia.

Consequently, Grupo Financiero Galicia agreed to increase its capital stock by issuing 58,857,580 new class B shares representing 4.526585% of the outstanding capital stock of Grupo Financiero Galicia to be delivered to the shareholders of Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A.

Additionally, Grupo Financiero Galicia, together with Banco Galicia and the shareholders of Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A., signed a supplemental agreement governing operational issues of and providing for the settlement and mutual withdrawal of any pending claims.

All documentation related to the merger by absorption of Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A. by Grupo Financiero Galicia was approved at the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting of Grupo Financiero Galicia held on November 21, 2013, including the exchange ratio and the above mentioned capital increase of Ps.58,857,580 through the issuance of 58,857,580 class B shares, with a face value of Ps.1, one vote per share, entitling its owners to participate in the profits of the financial year beginning on January 1, 2013.

On December 18, 2013, the definitive merger agreement contemplating the absorption of Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A. was registered in a public deed pursuant to the terms of paragraph 4 of article 83 of the Ley General de Sociedades (Law No. 19,550, as amended, the General Corporations Law or “Corporations Law”), and effective as of September 1, 2013. Therefore, 25,454,193 class B shares of Banco Galicia, representing 4.526585 % of its capital stock previously owned by Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus and S.A. were transferred to Grupo Financiero Galicia. As a result, Grupo Financiero Galicia owns 560,199,603 shares of Banco Galicia, representing 99.621742% of its capital stock and voting rights.

On February 27, 2014, by Resolution No. 17,300, the Board of the Comisión Nacional de Valores (the “National Securities Commission”, or the “CNV”) consented to the absorption of Lagarcué S.A. and Theseus S.A and to the above mentioned increase in capital of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

On February 25, 2014, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia resolved to offer to acquire all of the remaining shares of Banco Galicia owned by third parties, amounting to 2,123,962 shares, at an amount of Ps.23.22 per share, which was approved by the CNV on April 24, 2014.

In compliance with Argentine regulations, Grupo Financiero Galicia made all required communications and paid the amounts corresponding to the remaining shares of Banco Galicia held by third parties. On August 4, 2014, Grupo Financiero Galicia became the owner of 100% of the outstanding capital stock of Banco Galicia when the relevant unilateral declaration to acquire the remaining shares of Banco Galicia held by third parties was recorded as a public deed pursuant to Article 95 of the Law No.26,831No. 26,831 (the “Capital Markets Law”, in Spanish “Ley“Ley de Mercado de Capitales”).

On January 12, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia together with its main subsidiary, Banco Galicia, accepteddecided to accept an offer made by Mr. Julio A. Fraomeni and Galeno Capital S.A.U. to purchase 100% of CFA.Banco Galicia’s subsidiary, Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. On December 4, 2017, pursuant tothrough Resolution No.414,No. 414, the Argentine Central BankBCRA authorized suchthe sale which wasof Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2018, payments were completed, on February 2, 2018, andso Grupo Financiero Galicia received a total amount of Ps.30,771,146 (which, as adjusted for inflation, wasis equal to Ps.42,794,389Ps.89,623,576 as of December 31, 2018).2020) for its 3% of participation in Compañia Financiera Argentina S.A.

On May 16, 2017, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia accepted an offer to acquire 10,000 book-entry shares with a nominal value of Ps.1 per share, representing 1% of the share capital of Galicia Valores S.A.Inviu owned by CFACompañía Financiera Argentina S.A. for Ps.906,524.15 (which, as adjusted for inflation, wasis equal to Ps.1,511,188Ps.3,164,856 as of December 31, 2018)2020).

During August 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia accepted a series of irrevocable sales offers for the acquisition of a 6% of the issued and outstanding share capital of itsthe subsidiary Tarjetas Regionales. On January 5, 2018, a total sales price of US$49,000,000 was paid by Grupo Financiero Galicia and the transaction was completed on January 8, 2018, with the transfer of 22,633,260 Class A common shares, book-entry, with a par value of Ps.1 per share and five5 votes per share, and 42,033,196 Class B common shares, book-entry, with a par value of Ps.1 per share and one1 vote per share.

On October 12, 2017, the Board of Directors of the Company approved the corporate reorganization of Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia. Such reorganization consisted of the divestiture of Banco Galicia’s shares in Tarjetas Regionales (77% of its share capital), and the incorporation of such shares into the assets of Grupo Financiero Galicia effective January 1, 2018. On January 19, 2018, the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, through Note No.312/No. 312/04/2018, confirmed that it did not object to such corporate reorganization. Consequently,Following such reorganization, Grupo Financiero Galicia maintainsheld an 83% ownership interest in Tarjetas Regionales.

On August 15, 2017, the shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia approved an increase of its share capital by issuing up to a maximum of 150,000,000 of new Class B shares, book-entry, with a right to one vote and a face value of Ps.1 per share.


On September 26, 2017, the global primary follow-on offering period for Grupo Financiero Galicia’s new Class B shares ended and 109,999,996 Classclass B shares were subscribed for a price of US$5 per share. Such shares

were issued on September 29, 2017. The Company granted the underwriters the option to purchase additional Classclass B ordinary shares at the offering price, and on October 2, 2017, the underwriters exercised such option and 16,500,004 additional Classclass B shares at US$5 per share were issued on October 4, 2017.

As a result of the foregoing offering, a total of 126,500,000 ordinary Classclass B shares, book-entry, with a right to one vote and a face value of Ps.1 per share were issued. IssuedThe new issued and outstanding capital of Grupo Financiero Galicia was therefore Ps.1,426,764,597, represented by 281,221,650 ordinary Classclass A shares, book-entry, entitled to five votes per share and a face value of Ps.1 per share and 1,145,542,947 ordinary Classclass B shares, book-entry, entitled to one vote and a face value of Ps.1 per share.

On December 27, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia made a capital contribution to Banco Galicia of Ps.10,000,000,000, (which, as adjusted for inflation, wasis equal to Ps.14,764,559,007Ps.30,921,170,298 as of December 31, 2018)2020).

On May 28, 2019, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia approved a capital contribution to Tarjetas Regionales for Ps.500,000,000 (which, as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.878,727,016 as of December 31, 2020) to fund the creation of a new digital financial company, called “Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.” designed to reach and offer digital banking services to the underbanked population of Argentina. Said capital contribution was effective in two payments of Ps.250,000,000 each, the first one made in June 2019 and the second one made in December 2019. The formation of said company was approved on September 16, 2019, by Resolution 205 of the BCRA.

On July 2, 2019, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia accepted an offer made by Inviu, to acquire 5% of the stock of Galicia Administradora de Fondos for US$920,000. Such acquisition made Grupo Financiero Galicia the sole shareholder of Galicia Administradora de Fondos. Likewise, on the same date, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia approved the creation of a new company denominated IGAM LLC, to be registered in the state of Delaware, United States of America, to provide brokerage, investing and other financial services in Argentina and in other countries. The registration of IGAM LLC took place on July 3, 2019.

On August 15, 2019, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia accepted a purchase offer made by Banco Galicia to sell 10,000 shares, representing 1% of the capital stock of Inviu , for Ps.695,308.54 (which, as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.1,119,778 as of December 31, 2020). With this share purchase, Inviu is 100% owned by our subsidiary Banco Galicia.

On September 20, 2019, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia approved a capital contribution to IGAM LLC for Ps.71,000,000, (which, as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.107,988,030 as of December 31, 2020), to be applied to the purchase of the total stake in Inviu owned by Banco Galicia. Said operation was closed at a total price of Ps.69,530,854 (which, as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.105,753,520 as of December 31, 2020).

On May 5, 2020, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia, with the goal of strengthening its brokerage service offerings approved a sale offer to purchase the entire capital stock of a brokerage company (an ALYC company -Agente de Liquidación y Compensación- meaning those Argentine entities with a broker-dealer license given by the Argentine Market Regulator) called 34 Grados Sur Securities S.A. Said operation was closed for a total price of US$441,230 and the company was re named Galicia Securities S.A.

On May 28, 2020, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. agreed with the minority shareholders of Tarjetas Regionales to proceed with a corporate reorganization process. Through this corporate reorganization, the minority shareholders of Tarjetas Regionales, Fedler S.A. and Dusner S.A., holders of 17% of Tarjetas Regionales’s shares spun- off its shares in Tarjetas Regionales and they were absorbed, through a merger by Grupo Financiero Galicia. On September 14, 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia and the companies Dusner S.A. and Fedler S.A. signed the Preliminary Spin off - Merger Agreement and on December 15, 2020 the definitive Spin off - Merger Agreement was executed. As a result of said corporate reorganization, the shareholders of Fedler S.A. and Dusner S.A received GFG’s 47,927,494 Class B common shares, book-entry, with a par value of Ps.1 per share and 1 vote per share, representing their equity interest in Tarjetas Regionales and Grupo Financiero Galicia acquired the control of the 100% equity of Tarjetas Regionales.

ii) Banco Galicia

Banco Galicia is a banking corporation organized as a stock corporation under Argentine law and supervised and licensed to operate as a commercial bank by the Superintendencia de Entidades Financieras y Cambiarias (Superintendency of Financial Institutions and Exchange Bureaus or, the “Superintendency”).

Banco Galicia was founded in September 1905 by a group of businessmen in Argentina and began operations in November 1905. Two years later, in 1907, Banco Galicia’s stock was listed on the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange (the “BASE”). Banco Galicia’s business and branch network increased significantly by the late 1950s and continued expanding in the following decades, after regulatory changes allowed Banco Galicia to exercise its potential and gain a reputation for innovation, thereby achieving a leading role within the domestic banking industry.

In the late 1950s, Banco Galicia launched the equity mutual fund FIMA Acciones and founded the predecessor of the asset manager Galicia Administradora de Fondos. Beginning in the late 1960s, Banco Galicia began to establish an international network mainly comprised of branches in New York and in the Cayman Islands, a bank in Uruguay and several representative offices.

In order to develop automated banking in Argentina and avoid bank disintermediation (i.e., when consumers access information or goods directly rather than through intermediaries) in the provision of electronic information and fund transfer services, in 1985, Banco Galicia established, together with four other private- sector banks operating in Argentina, Banelco S.A. to operate a nationwide automated teller system, which became the largest in the country. During the same year, Banco Galicia also acquired an interest in VISA Argentina S.A., and is currently one of the largest issuers of such cards in Argentina.

During the 1990s, Banco Galicia implemented a growth and modernization strategy directed at achieving economies of scale and increasing productivity and, therefore, heavily invested in developing new businesses, acquiring new customers, widening its product offering, developing its IT and human resources capabilities, and expanding its distribution capacity. This was comprised of traditional channels (branches) and, especially, alternative channels, including new types of branches (e.g., in-store), ATMs, banking centers, phone banking and internet banking.

As part of its growth strategy, Banco Galicia began expanding into rural areas in the Interior, where there was believed to be a high potential for growth. Historically, the Interior was underserved relative to Buenos Aires and its surroundings with respect to access to financial services, and its population tends to use fewer banking services. Between 1995 and 1999, Banco Galicia acquired equity interests in entities and formed several non-banking companies providing financial services to individuals in the Interior through the issuance of proprietary brand credit cards. See Regional Credit Card Companies”“—Ecosistema NaranjaX” below. In addition, in 1997, Banco Galicia acquired a regional bank that was merged into it, with branches located mainly in Santa Fe and Córdoba, two of the wealthiest and most populous provinces.


In order to fund its strategy, during the 1990s, Banco Galicia tapped the international capital markets for both equity and debt. In June 1993, Banco Galicia carried out its initial international public offering in the United States and Europe and, as a result, listed its American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) on the Nasdaq Stock Market until 2000, when Banco Galicia’s shares were exchanged for our shares. In 1991, it was the first Argentine bank to issue debt in the European capital markets and, in 1994, it was the first Latin American issuer of a convertible bond. In 1996, Banco Galicia raised equity again through a local and international public offering.

In 1996, Banco Galicia entered the bank insurance business through an agreement with ITT Hartford Life Insurance Co. for the joint development of initiatives in the life insurance business. In the same year, Banco Galicia initiated its internet presence, which evolved into a full e-banking service for both companies and individuals.

At the end of 2000, Banco Galicia was the largest private-sector bank in the Argentine market with a 9.8% deposit market share.

In 2001 and 2002, Argentina experienced a severe political and financial crisis, which had a material adverse effect on the financial system and on financial businesses as a whole, including Banco Galicia, but especially on financial intermediation activity. However, during the crisis, the provision of transactional banking services was maintained. With the normalization of the Argentine economy and the subsequent period of growth, financial activities began to increase, translating into significant growth for the financial system as a whole, including Banco Galicia. The provision of services continued to develop, surpassing their development pre-crisis, and financial intermediation activity resumed progressively.

Beginning in May 2002, Banco Galicia began to implement a series of initiatives to deal with the liquidity shortage caused by the systemic deposit run, the unavailability of funding and other adverse effects of the 2001-2002 financial crisis. Banco Galicia significantly streamlined its operations and reduced its administrative expenses and, immediately after launching such initiatives, restored its liquidity. Also, in late 2002 and early 2003, Banco Galicia closed all of its operating units abroad or began to wind them down. In addition, Banco Galicia: (i) restructured most of its commercial loan portfolio, a process that was substantially completed in 2005, (ii) restructured its foreign debt, a process that began in 2002 and that was completed in May 2004, and resulted in an increase in its capitalization, and (iii) in February 2004, finalized the restructuring of its debt with the Argentine Central Bank incurred as a consequence of the 2001-2002 financial crisis.

Together with the launching of the above-mentioned initiatives, Banco Galicia began to normalize its activities, progressively restoring its customer relations and growing its business with the private sector. In 2007, Banco Galicia finalized the full repayment of its debt with the Argentine Central Bank incurred as a consequence of the 2001-2002 financial crisis. In addition, in August 2007, Banco Galicia repaid in full the notes that it had issued to restructure the debt of its New York Branch and undertook a share offering to increase its capitalization, in order to be able to support the increase in regulatory capital requirements on a bank’s exposure to the public sector and the growth of its business with the private sector.

On February 25, 2014, Grupo Financiero Galicia, which controlled 99.62% of the shares of Banco Galicia, resolved to issue an offer to acquire the 2,123,962 shares of Banco Galicia owned by third parties. On April 24, 2014, said transaction was approved by the CNV and on July 14, 2014, it was incorporated by the Argentine Superintendency of Corporations. Currently, 100% of the outstanding capital stock of Banco Galicia is owned by Grupo Financiero Galicia. See “Grupo Financiero Galicia” above.

In addition, Banco Galicia requested to delist its shares from the BYMA to become a privately held company. Banco Galicia’s quotation was suspended on April 30, 2014. On August 21, 2014, the CNV approved Banco Galicia’s request to delist its shares from the BASE.

On January 12, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia accepted an offer made by Mr. Julio A. Fraomeni and Galeno Capital S.A.U. to purchase 100% of CFA, a subsidiary of Banco Galicia. On December 4, 2017, pursuant to Resolution No.414, the Argentine Central BankBCRA authorized such transaction, which was completed on February 2, 2018.


On March 31, 2017, Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors approved the sale of its stake (58.8% of the issued and oustandingoutstanding shares) in its subsidiary Tarjetas del Mar S.A. (“Tarjetas del Mar”) to Sociedad Anónima Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia (which already owned 40% of the total shares of Tarjetas del Mar). CFA also sold its stake (1.2% of the issued and outstanding shares) in Tarjetas del Mar to Federico Braun. Banco Galicia received approximately US$5,000,000 in respect of such sale.

On December 27, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia, in its capacity as sole shareholder and holder of 100% of the capital of Banco Galicia, integrated a capital contribution of Ps.10,000 millionPs.10,000,000,000 (which, as adjusted for inflation, wasis equal to Ps.14,765 millionPs.30,921,170,298 as of December 31, 2018)2020). The Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, through its Resolution No.35 dated January 11, 2018, approved the capital contribution and its consideration as computable capital.

Regional Credit Card CompaniesOn January 21, 2019 Banco Galicia, sold to AI Zenith (Netherlands) B.V. 3,182,444 book-entry common shares, with face value of Ps.1 each and one vote per share, representing 7.7007% of Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. (“Prisma”) capital stock. Banco Galicia continues to hold 3,057,642 shares in Prisma, which represents 7.3988% of its capital stock.

In September 2019, Banco Galicia accepted an offer to acquire 100% of the shareholding in Inviu made by IGAM. The price of the operation amounted to Ps.69,530,854 (which as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.105,753,520 as of December 31,2020). See “—Grupo Financiero Galicia”.

During the fiscal year 2020, Banco Galicia, together with other financial institutions, formed a company named Play Digital S.A. (“Play Digital”) with the corporate purpose of developing and marketing a payment solution linked to the bank accounts of the financial system users, which will significantly enhance their payment experience. As of the date hereof, Banco Galicia held 12.976% of Play Digital.

iii) Ecosistema NaranjaX

In the mid-1990s, Banco Galicia made the strategic decision to target the “non-account“non-account holding” individuals market, which, in Argentina, typically includes the low and medium-low income segments of the population who live in the Interior of the country, in addition to certain parts of Greater Buenos Aires. To implement this strategic decision, in 1995 Banco Galicia began investing in non-bank companies (the “Regional Credit Card Companies”) operating in certain regions of the Interior, providingInterior. These companies provided financial services to individuals through the issuance of credit cards with proprietary brands and extendingextended credit to its customers through such cards.

In 1995, Banco Galicia made the first investment in this business by acquiring a minority stake in Tarjeta Naranja S.A. (“Tarjeta Naranja”) and in 1997 increased its ownership to 80%. This company had begun operations in 1985 in the city of Córdoba, where it marketed “Tarjeta Naranja”“Naranja”, its proprietary brand credit card, and had enjoyed local growth.

In 1996, Banco Galicia formed Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A. (“Tarjetas Cuyanas”), to operate in the Cuyo Region (the provinces of Mendoza, San Juan and San Luis) in partnership with local businessmen. This company launched the “Nevada Card” in May 1996 in the city of Mendoza. Also, in 1996, Banco Galicia formed a new company, Tarjetas del Mar, to operate in the city of Mar del Plata and its area of influence. Tarjetas del Mar began marketing the “Mira” card“Mira Card” in March 1997.

In early 1997, Banco Galicia purchased an interest in Comfiar S.A., a consumer finance company operating in the provinces of Santa Fe and Entre Ríos, which was merged into Tarjeta Naranja in January 2004.

In 1999, Banco Galicia reorganized its participation in this business throughby forming Tarjetas Regionales aS.A (“Tarjetas Regionales”). Tarjetas Regionales became the holding company, wholly owned by Banco Galicia and Galicia Cayman, which owns the shares of Tarjeta Naranja, Comfiar S.A., Tarjetas Cuyanas, and Tarjetas del Mar. In addition, between 1999 and 2000, Tarjetas Regionales acquired Tarjetas del Sur S.A., a credit card company operating in southern Argentina. In March 2001, Tarjetas del Sur S.A. merged into Tarjeta Naranja.

During 2012, the ownership interests in Tarjetas Regionales and its operating subsidiaries were modified due to the following events:

Tarjeta Naranja’s board of directors approved the merger of Tarjeta Mira S.A. (merged company) into Tarjeta Naranja (merging company).

Tarjetas Regionales carried out a capital increase that was mainly paid by the contribution of the minority shareholders’ holdings in its subsidiaries Tarjeta Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas. Therefore, Banco Galicia’s direct and indirect interest decreased to 77% of the capital stock and the remaining 23% is held by the shareholders who, by means of the above-mentioned contribution, became Tarjetas Regionales’ minority shareholders.


On March 31, 2017, Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors approved the sale of its stake (58.8% of the issued and oustanding shares) in its subsidiary Tarjetas del Mar to Sociedad Anónima Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia (which already owned 40% of the total shares of Tarjetas del Mar). CFA also sold its stake (1.2% of the issued and outstanding shares) in Tarjetas del Mar to Federico Braun. Banco Galicia received approximately US$5,000,000 in respect of such sale.

As of December 31, 2016, Banco Galicia held a 77% ownership interest in Tarjetas Regionales. Tarjetas Regionales directly and indirectly held 100% of Tarjeta Naranja and 100% of Tarjetas Cuyanas.

These companies have experienced a significant expansionOn March 31, 2017, Banco Galicia’s Board of their customer bases, in absolute terms and with respect toDirectors approved the rangesale of customers served, number of cards issued, distribution networks and size of operations, as well as a technological upgrade and general modernization. By mid -1995, Tarjeta Naranja had approximately 200,000 cards outstanding. As of December 31, 2018, the Regional Credit Card Companies, on a consolidated basis, had approximately 9 million issued cards and were the largest proprietary brand credit card operation in Argentina.

In terms of funding, the Regional Credit Card Companies have historically used one or moreits stake (58.8% of the following third-party sources of financing: merchants, bond issuances, bank loansissued and other credit lines, financial leases and securitizations using financial trust vehicles. This diversification has allowed the Regional Credit Card Companiesoutstanding shares) in its subsidiary Tarjetas del Mar to maintain and expand their business without depending excessively on one single source or provider.

The business operationsSociedad Anónima Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia (which already owned 40% of the Regional Credit Card Companies are exposedtotal shares of Tarjetas del Mar). CFA also sold its stake (1.2% of the issued and outstanding shares) in Tarjetas del Mar to foreign exchange rate fluctuations and interest rate fluctuations; however, they mitigate the foreign exchange rate riskFederico Braun. Banco Galicia received approximately US$5,000,000 in respect of their business and operation through hedging transactions and try to offset their interest rate exposure with assets that bear interest at similar floating rates. In addition, the Regional Credit Card Companies have an overall liquidity policy requiring them to maintain sufficient liquidity to cover at least three months of future operations and to formulate a cash flow projection for each upcoming year. These internal policies and practices ensure adequate working capital through which the Regional Credit Card Companies protect their operations against short-term cash shortages, allowing them to focus on expanding their business and continuously better serving their clients.such sale.

On August 10, 2017, the Board of Directors of each of Tarjeta Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas approved the merger of such subsidiaries, by which Tarjetas Cuyanas would merge into Tarjeta Naranja. On September 5, 2017, Tarjetas Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas executed a supplemental merger agreement pursuant to which Tarjeta Naranja acquired the assets and liabilities of Tarjetas Cuyanas effective as of October 1, 2017. Such merger was approved by the shareholders of each subsidiary at Extraordinary General Shareholders’ Meetings in October 2017.

Additionally, in October 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia publicly announced its plan to undertake a corporate reorganization between Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia as discussed above in “History and Development of the Company”.

Finally, in February 2019 and December 2019, Cobranzas Regionales S.A. received capital contributions from its shareholders, Naranja and Tarjetas Regionales, with the main purpose of maximize the growth of the “NPOS”(a new service of Naranja mainly used by merchants to accept payments made from clients with any debit or credit card through a wireless device) business and the subsequent launch of the virtual wallet “NaranjaX”. As a result of such capital contributions, Cobranzas Regionales S.A. capital stock increased from Ps.1 million to Ps.391 million, represented by 391,000,000 shares of face value of Ps.1 each.

In 2019, Tarjetas Regionales, created a new digital financial company, called “Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.” designed to reach and offer digital banking services to the underbanked population of Argentina. The formation of said company was approved by the BCRA on September 16, 2019, by Resolution 205 of the BCRA. Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera obtain the license to commenced operations from BCRA. For further information see “Item 4. “Information on the Company” – A. “History and Development of the Company” – A.1 “History” -Grupo Financiero Galicia”.

On May 28, 2020, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. agreed with the minority shareholders of Tarjetas Regionales to proceed with a corporate reorganization process. Through this corporate reorganization, the minority shareholders of Tarjetas Regionales, Fedler S.A. and Dusner S.A., holders of 17% of Tarjetas Regionales’s shares, spun-off their shares and were absorbed, through a merger by Grupo Financiero Galicia. On September 14, 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia and the companies Dusner S.A. and Fedler S.A. executed the Preliminary Spin off - Merger Agreement and on December 15, 2020 took place the definitive spin off - Merger Agreement. For further information see “Item 4. “Information on the Company” – A. “History and Development of the Company” – A.1 “History” - “—Grupo Financiero Galicia”.

In September 2020 and October 2020, Cobranzas Regionales S.A. received from its shareholders, Naranja and Tarjetas Regionales, irrevocable equity contributions that were designed to absorb losses in a total amount of Ps.368,421,052.64 (which, as adjusted for inflation, is equal to Ps.402,719,002 as of December 31, 2020). At the same time Cobranzas Regionales launched “toque” a new service of Naranja mainly used by merchants to accept payments made from clients with any debit or credit card through a wireless device and totally integrated with the electronic wallet, Naranja X.

On September 15, 2020, Tarjetas Regionales signed an irrevocable equity contribution agreement with Grupo Financiero Galicia for a total amount of Ps.1,000,000,000 (which as adjusted for inflation is equal to Ps.1,113,270,500 as of December 31, 2020) to be paid in two tranches. On the aforementioned date, Tarjetas Regionales received the first tranche of the irrevocable contribution in a total amount of Ps.175,000,000 (which as adjusted for inflation is equal to Ps.194,822,338 as of December 31, 2020). Tarjetas Regionales received the second tranche on October 30, 2020, in a total amount of Ps.825,000,000 (which as adjusted for inflation is equal to Ps.885,157,650 as of December 31, 2020).

In terms of funding, Naranja, has historically used one or more of the following third-party sources of financing: merchants, bond issuances, bank loans and other credit lines, financial leases and securitizations using financial trust vehicles. This diversification has allowed Naranja to maintain and expand their business without depending excessively on one single source or provider.

The business operation of Naranja is exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations and interest rate fluctuations; however, Naranja mitigates the foreign exchange rate risk in respect of its business and operations through hedging transactions and tries to offset its interest rate exposure with assets that bear interest at similar floating rates. In addition, Naranja has an overall liquidity policy requiring it to maintain sufficient liquidity to cover at least three months of future operations and to formulate a cash flow projection for each upcoming year. These internal policies and practices ensure adequate working capital through which Naranja protects its operations against short-term cash shortages, allowing Naranja to focus on expanding its business and continuously better serving their clients. During 2020, Naranja continued to experience a significant expansion of its customer base, in absolute terms

and with respect to the range of customers served, number of cards issued, distribution networks and size of operations, as well as a technological upgrade and general modernization. As of December 31, 2020, Naranja, had approximately 8.6 million issued cards and was the largest proprietary brand credit card operation in Argentina.

Finally, with all the businesses that Tarjetas Regionales oversees, during 2020 and going forward, the goal is to become the preferred technological and financial platform by Argentines. In order to work towards this goal, during 2020 Tarjetas Regionales redefined its purpose. It is now focused on meeting the noted goal, which it believes will allow it to offer new products and services in a streamlined and straightforward manner that will result in mass appeal and facilities an efficient customer and best-in-class customer experience. Related to this new approach, during 2020 Tarjetas Regionales launched a new umbrella brand for the entire business called Ecosistema NaranjaX, which includes all the businesses such as credit card, merchants and financial services.

iv) Sudamericana Holding

In 1996, Banco Galicia entered the bank insurance business, through the establishment of a joint venture with Hartford Life International to sell life insurance and annuities, in which it had a 12.5% interest. In December 2000, Banco Galicia sold its interest in this company and purchased 12.5% of Sudamericana, a subsidiary of Hartford Life International. As a result of various acquisitions, Grupo Financiero Galicia owns 87.5% of Sudamericana (with the remaining 12.5% being held by Banco Galicia) which offers life, retirement, property and casualty insurance products in Argentina through its subsidiaries Galicia Seguros S.A. (“Galicia Seguros”), which provides property, casualty and life insurance, Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A., which provides retirement insurance and Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A., an insurance broker.

In addition, during fiscal year 2012 Galicia Seguros, together with three other insurance companies, created Nova Re Compañía Argentina de Reaseguros S.A., the goal of which is to increase the scope of offerings of reinsurance products in Argentina. In September 2017, Galicia Seguros sold its ownership interest in such entity.


v) Galicia Administradora de Fondos

Incorporated in 1958, Galicia Administradora de Fondos manages the FIMA family mutual funds that are distributed by Banco Galicia through its multiple channels (network of branches and home banking and investment centers, among others). Galicia Administradora de Fondos’ team is comprised of asset management professionals whose goal is to manage the FIMA family funds in order to meet the demand of individuals, companies and institutions. The assets of each fund are distributed across a variety of assets, such as bonds, negotiable obligations, trusts, shares and deposits, among others, in line with the fund’s investment objective.

On April 15, 2014, Banco Galicia sold its 95% interest in Galicia Administradora de Fondos to Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Net Investment (Liquidated)

Net Investment was establishedOn July 2, 2019, Banco Galicia sold its 5% interest in February 2000 as a holding company (87.5% owned byGalicia Administración de Fondos to Grupo Financiero Galicia and 12.5% owned by Banco Galicia).Galicia.

On May 16, 2017, the General Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Net Investment unanimously approved the early dissolution and subsequent liquidation of Net Investment. At such meeting, the shareholders appointed a liquidating committee that took all required actions leading to such entity’s actual liquidation, with the financial statements as of December 31, 2017 corresponding to its final liquidation. The final distribution of capital was made on January 9, 2018.

vi) Galicia Warrants

Incorporated in 1993, Galicia Warrants provides financing services, secured by property in its custody, to the agricultural, industrial and agri-industrial sectors, as well as exporters and retailers. Its main objective is to provide access to credit to such sectors and customers. Its shareholders are Grupo Financiero Galicia, which holds 87.5% of the outstanding equity interests of Galicia Warrants, and Banco Galicia, which holds the remaining 12.5% outstanding equity interests.

While the corporate headquarters of Galicia Warrants is located in Buenos Aires, its office in San Miguel de Tucumán carries out transactions in the warrants market, as well as other financing services related to its main sectors and customers it services as described above, throughout Argentina.

vii) IGAM / Inviu

Incorporated in 2019, IGAM is the holding company of Inviu and IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A. (formerly known as Nargelon S.A.). IGAM is registered in Delaware, USA.

Inviu operates in the investment management industry. Its purpose is to provide broker and financial advisory services while working to build trustworthy and long-term relationships with its clients and prospects. Inviu scope of business is mostly local.

As of 2019, Inviu became a Mercado Abierto Electrónico (MAE) Agent. MAE is one of Argentina’s electronic markets and its main trading parties are institutional investors such as banks, insurance companies, investment brokers and mutual funds. As a MAE Agent, Inviu can trade bonds, currency, futures and other derivatives within MAE.

viii) Galicia Securities

Galicia Securities was incorporated on December 23, 2015, under the name of 34 Grados Sur Securities S.A. and was acquired by Grupo Financiero on May 5, 2020.

On May 6, 2020, during an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Galicia Securities, the shareholders of Galicia Securities approved a name change to Galicia Securities S.A.

Galicia Securities is authorized to act as a settlement and compensation agent and placement and distribution agent of mutual funds in Argentine. The stated purpose of Galicia Securities is to conduct on its own behalf, on behalf of third parties, or through agents, agencies or branches, the operations which are typically performed by settlement and compensation agents and distribution agents and those authorized by current Argentine laws.

Galicia Securities is a member of the Argentine Stock Exchange Market (“BYMA”) and the Argentine Electronic Open Market.

A.2 Capital Investments and Divestitures

During 2018,2020, our capital expenditures amounted to Ps.3,688Ps.7,124 million, allocated as follows:

Ps.2,337Ps.3,716 million in fixed assets (real estate, machinery and equipment, vehicles, furniture and fittings); and

Ps.1,351Ps.3,408 million in organizationallicenses and development expenses.other intangible assets.

During 2017,2019, our capital expenditures amounted to Ps.3,087Ps.10,752 million, allocated as follows:

Ps.2,722Ps.4.828 million in fixed assets (real estate, machinery and equipment, vehicles, furniture and fittings); and

Ps.365Ps.5,924 million in organizationallicenses and development expenses.other intangible assets.

During 2018, our capital expenditures amounted to Ps.8,581 million, allocated as follows:

Ps.4,894 million in fixed assets (real estate, machinery and equipment, vehicles, furniture and fittings); and

Ps.3,687 million in licenses and other intangible assets.

These capital expenditures were primarily made in Argentina.


For a description of our divestitures in 20182020, 2019 and 2017 related to Tarjetas del Mar, Tarjetas Regionales and the sale of CFA,2018, please see “─“—History” — “Grupo Financiero Galicia”, “Banco Galicia” and “Tarjetas Regionales”.

A.3 Investment Planning

We have budgeted capital expenditures for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019,2021, for the following purposes and amounts:

December 31, 2019

2021

(in millions of Pesos)

Infrastructure of Corporate Buildings, Tower and Branches (construction, furniture, equipment, phones and other fixed assets)

903

1,832

Organizational and IT System Development

8,315

 

 

4,009

Total Investment Planning

10,147

 

 

4,912

These capital expenditures will primarily be made in Argentina. Management considersbelieves that internal funds will be sufficient to finance capital expenditures for the year ending December 31, 2019.2021.

B. Business Overview

B.1 Business

i) Banking

Banco Galicia, our largest subsidiary, operates in Argentina and substantially all of its customers, operations and assets are located in Argentina. Banco Galicia is a bank that provides, directly or through its subsidiaries, a wide variety of financial products and services to large corporations, SMEs, and individuals.

Banco Galicia is one of Argentina’s largest full-service banks and is a leading provider of financial services in Argentina. It is also our largest subsidiary. According to information publishedprovided by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, as of December 31, 2018,November 30, 2020, Banco Galicia ranked first in terms of assets and loan portfolio and second in terms of assets and deposits within private-sector banks in Argentina. As of the same date, Banco Galicia also ranked first among private-sector domestic banks in terms of assets, loans and deposits. Its market share of private sector deposits and of loans to the private sector was 11.08%10.07% and 10.51%13.03%, respectively, as of December 31, 2018.2020. As of December 31, 2018,2020, Banco Galicia had total assets of Ps.511,338Ps.946,019 million, total loans and other financing of Ps.243,232Ps.439,306 million, total deposits of Ps.361,446Ps.678,103 million, and its shareholders’ equity amounted to Ps.43,969Ps.151,821 million.

Banco Galicia provides a full range of financial services through one of the most extensive and diversified distribution platforms amongst private-sector financial institutions in Argentina. This distribution platform, as of December 31, 2018,2020, was comprised of 325326 full service banking branches, located throughout the country, 2,0292,054 ATMs and self-service terminals owned by Banco Galicia, phone banking and e-banking facilities. Banco Galicia’s customer base on an unconsolidated basis, was comprised of approximately 3.03 million customers, who were comprised of mostly individuals but who also included 105,96025,092 companies. Banco Galicia has a strong competitive position in retail banking, both with respect to individuals and SMEs. Specifically, based on internal studies undertaken by Banco Galicia, it is estimated that Banco Galicia is one of the primary providers of financial services to individuals, one of the largest providers of credit cards, one of the primary private-sector institutions serving SMEs, and has traditionally maintained a leading position in the agriculture and livestock sectors. Banco Galicia’s primary clients are classified into threetwo categories Wholesale Banking,or segments, Empresas (Companies) and Retail, Banking,as explained further below in the Segment Tribes subsection.

In 2018, and Financial Banking.

Wholesale Banking

as a result of its strategy focused on growth, customer experience and efficiency, Banco Galicia began to transform its operating model with the aim of enhancing its operational flexibility and ability to adapt to changes. In 2020, Banco Galicia believes that it achieved this transformation, ending with an agile organization that is both able to adapt to changes on a dynamic basis while maintaining its organizational stability. The traditional bank departments were replaced by new organizational departments and Banco Galicia’s Wholesale Banking division isorganizational structure now includes various multidisciplinary teams that seek to constantly adapt and evolve to better meet their customer’s needs, adjust to market demands and allocate and reallocate resources in order to provide comprehensive customer solutions while also focusing on business continuity. These teams are organized into the following three segments: (i) Large-Corporations Banking, Investment Banking and Capital Markets; (ii) Middle-Market Banking and (iii) Agricultural Sector.



in Large-Corporations Bankingso-called “tribes”, Investment Banking and Capital Marketsexpertise centers, back-end

Large-Corporations Banking provides services and financial assistance to companies with annual revenues in excess of Ps.3,000 million or which, due to their profile as a multinational corporation orsupport areas, according to the complexitytype of value that each team adds to Banco Galicia and to the organizational services and tasks that they provide, all of which seeks to enhance the financial results of Banco Galicia. “Segment Tribes”

a) Segment Tribes

Segment tribes are multidisciplinary teams that are organized around one single objective: to offer clients a value proposition that meets their businesses, need special treatmentneeds and behavior. Segment tribes are focused on Banco Galicia’s clients everyday operations and focus on, ensuring an agile and simple relationship between Banco Galicia and its clients that is designed to result in terms of advicesustained customer growth. In order to best tailor its everyday client support and financial structuring.offerings, Banco Galicia has divided its clients in two “tribes” as described below.

a.i) Retail tribe

As of December 2018, this segment serviced more than 950 customers from more than 300 economic groups. As of December 2018, assets had increased 83%, while deposits had increased 56%, as compared to December 2017. As of December 2018, financial margin and income from services increased by more than 45% and net income doubled as compared to December 2017. This growth is based on31,2020, the sustained support and positioning of this segment with customers in the energy, oil and gas, infrastructure, automotive, agro-industrial, and food and beverage sectors.

In 2018, Banco Galicia consolidated its position in the capital markets and investment banking sector, through the structuring of financing products tailored to the needs of its corporate clients, SMEs and agricultural companies. In 2018, Banco Galicia syndicated more than 69 transactions, 23 syndicated and structured loans and 46 issuances of debt and equity instruments, including notes, short-term securities, bills and financial trusts.

The most important Peso-denominated transactions in 2018 were issuances of (i) government securities by the City of Buenos Aires and the province of Buenos Aires, (ii) securities by automotive companies, such as Fiat, Toyota and Mercedes Benz, (iii) securities by affiliates of Grupo Financiero Galicia, such as Tarjeta Naranja and Banco Galicia and (iv) securities by financial companies.

The most important Dollar-denominated transactions included acting as the local placement agent for the issuance of notes in an aggregate principal amount of US$600 million for MSU Energy S.A.

The Bank also participated in domestic and international syndicated transactions in 2018, primarily in the oil and gas sector, in an aggregate amount of more than Ps.4,460 million and US$400 million.

The Bank was also involved in the procurement of private operators for toll roads in Argentina under the Public-Private Partnership Program, acting as guarantor underwriter for the financing of such projects.

Middle-Market Banking

In 2018, the Middle-Market Banking segment“retail tribe” was comprised of 4,500 customers from all over Argentina, with annual revenues ranging from Ps.300 million to Ps.2,000 million. This segment includes all business sectors, except for primary agricultural production. These customers are managed by highly specialized general managers and finance managers who provide tailored customer service and customized financing options for such customers. The managers serving these customers are located in twenty of the Bank’s corporate banking centers throughout Argentina and rely on the use of technology and digital channels, which allows for regular communication and streamlined services.

The balance of the Bank’s lending portfolios increased by 33% for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018, the average treasury balance was equal to Ps.35,000 million, an increase of more than 22% compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Net profits for the year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.2,000 million, an increase of 298% as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

Agricultural Sector

The Agricultural Sector is the Bank’s only segment defined by its customers’ industry. In recent years, agriculture has changed significantly, primarily as a result of new technologies, bioeconomics and integration and changes in product distribution, marketing and domestic and international consumption. Banco Galicia tailors its product and service offerings to serve its customers in this segment. Banco Galicia has focused on developing digital solutions to more closely connect and communicate with customers in this segment.


In 2018, the Bank launched a new digital platform to help farmers finance the purchase of agricultural machinery and commercial vehicles through leasing and mortgage agreements. Tarjeta Galicia Rural, a credit card designed for the purchase and financing of agricultural supplies, cattle, breeding cattle, machinery and services for the rural sector, continues to hold a leading position in this industrial sector in 2018 with 56% of the market share among private banks.

As3,037,104 clients. Clients forming part of this segment,tribe can be either individuals or corporate entities, both, with annual sales of up to Ps.600 million.

The retail tribe works to achieve the Bank also makes loans to finance working capital, purchasesfollowing matters:

The acquisition and retention of equipment and capital expenditures (includingnew clients, pursuing the financing of clean energy projects), with 92% year-on-year growth. The Bank has also consolidated its position as the private bank with the largest loan portfolio secured by livestock as collateral.

In 2018, the Bank launched the “Galicia Rural Conecta” customer service model. This new channel incorporates more remote features and reaches more customers in this segment with the goal of providing customers with tailored services and digital banking options without sacrificing tailored services and customer knowledge.

Retail Banking

In 2018, Retail Banking continued to focus on implementing its commercial strategy, focusing on offering products tailored to the unique needs of eachachievement of the following segments: Business and SMEs, Galicia ÉMINENT, Private Banking and Individuals Segment. The following are the major challenges that the Bank believes this division will face in implementing this strategy for the period from 2017-2020:highest recognition as a financial platform.

To build, along with all the Bank’s sectors, a customer-oriented culture.

To lead the digital transformation in the financial market, keeping ahead of new competitors.

To further elaborate the Bank’s multichannel product platformsOffering end-to-end business solutions in order to deliverprovide the best market experience for each one of the cluster indicated below and through differentiated value propositions.

Understanding Banco Galicia’s customer experience.

To reinforce strategieslifecycle, by segment in orderidentifying and understanding their needs and providing customized offers when it comes to maintain the leadership position.

To develop innovative productsproduct and financial services.

Clients in the Retail tribe are divided according to the type of services that they are given in the following clusters as described below:

Personas (Individuals)

Regarding transactions, Banco Galicia offers its customers checking

MOVE

Prefer

EMINENT

Banca Privada (Private Banking)

Negocios & Profesionales (Business and savings accounts, creditProfessionals)

PyMEs (Small and debit cards, and payroll direct deposit, among other services. Banco Galicia’s customers have access to its services through its branch network as well as through its electronic distribution channels. The Bank’s Retail Banking Division offers various types of loans (i.e., personal loans and mortgages) and time deposits (in Pesos or foreign currencies). See “—Sales and Marketing.”Medium Enterprisess “SMEs”)

1.

Personas, MOVE and Prefer Cluster: Banco Galicia serves more than 3 million clients, and 78% of those clients belong to this cluster. All of the clients not included in the other clusters are considered to be included within these 3 clusters. For the universe of Personas, MOVE and Prefer, during 2020, Banco Galicia decided to focus on its digital client strategy. In particular, during such year, Banco Galicia grew its ability to over 7 days per week, 24 hours service by offering digital initiatives that focused on the entire lifecycle of these clients, starting with digital registration and welcome steps through biometric processes that protect the clients’ identity, to digital access to solve their after-sales needs and requests.

2.

EMINENT Cluster:Banco Galicia seeks to satisfy the needs of its most demanding and outstanding clients through three pillars of service: exclusive attention, personalized benefits and experiences, and agile and simple processes. With the aim of establishing long-term and trustworthy relationships, Banco Galicia offers the Galicia ÉMINENT premium service, which provides differential and exclusive attention to its clients through ÉMINENT Executives in the branch network and also digitally through Galicia Conecta, using personal WhatsApp messages or e-mails, no matter the location.

3.

Banca Privada Cluster: Banca Privada (Private Banking) provides professional financial service to people with high net worth/equity through the administration of their investments and financial advice

provided by highly trained officers. It offers its clients an assorted portfolio for investment comprised of domestic financial investments, such as Fima mutual funds (for further information about Fima, please see “Sales and Marketing” – “Fima Funds”, below) and deposits, public and private securities, and shares and trusts in which the Bank acts as underwriter.

4.

Business & Professionals (NyPs) and SMEs Cluster: For Business & Professionals and SMEs, Banco Galicia’s digital strategy is focused on providing a “One Stop Shop” service. It is aimed at satisfying clients’ needs from one single place, using one single platform, to enhance the client’s experience of self-management through digital channels, something that has helped achieve greater efficiency in both the service and the results of Banco Galicia. Banco Galicia believes that these clients are focused on self-financing growth and simplifying their day-to-day operations. Banco Galicia encourages and supports the growth of SMEs, businesses and, professionals with products and services that accompany the continued growth and training of such entity’s management, and it does so by offering funding, professional advice and tools that will expedite their operations, and also by promoting the exchange of experiences among the business owners that work along with strategic partners. In 2020, Banco Galicia was recognized by IDB Invest for its support to SMEs in the Southern Cone region. Within the service circles of “Business and Professionals” and “SMEs”, Banco Galicia further divides these clients into merchants and asset-based clients. For asset-based clients, during 2020 Banco Galicia focused on providing services to these clients taking into account two objectives: achieving greater coverage in terms of using Banco Galicia’s payroll services for more of these clients and helping those SMEs that already had a product to grow their business through cross-selling. A total of 28,828 SMEs began to use Banco Galicia’s pay roll services in 2020. As a consequence of the cross-selling of pay roll services, those SMEs that pay salaries through Banco Galicia had an increase in the number of products they hired with Banco Galicia, which went from 3.31 average products sold at the end of September to 3.37 by the end of November. This difference in the number of average cross-selling is equivalent to the placement of 2,832 new products for the universe of SMEs that have hired the pay roll services. During 2020 there was an increase in the volume of purchase transactions and the total amount of such purchases that the Bank pays to its merchant clients after the final costumer has made a purchase from the merchants with a credit card from the Bank, both for SMEs and NyPs, achieving an average monthly volume of Ps.11,125 million and $2,900 million respectively (representing a growth of 25% as compared to 2019). Lastly, together with allies such as the ASEA (“Asociacion de Emprendedores e Argentina”, the entrepreneurs association), ADIRAS (“Asociacion de Directorios Asociados” a civil non-profit group, formed by business men, business leaders and board members of SMEs.) and Grupo Set (an Argentine development group), Banco Galicia has been working with more than 10,000 entrepreneurs from all over the country to facilities training and provide business management tools, providing more than 30 online talks and more than 20 webinars through which hundreds of entrepreneurs were able to train and acquire some specific management and business tools that they can use to grow their own businesses.

b.i) Companies tribe

The Business“companies tribe” was comprised of 25,092 customers as of December 31,2020 (both individuals and SMEs segmentlegal entities) with an annual turnover higher than Ps.600 million.

The company’s tribe is focused on providing financing and other financial products and services to businesses not serviced by the wholesale banking division and small- to medium-sized companies. The Bank provides such clientsits client with a variety of servicesbusiness platform that offers specialized financial and product offerings, including financial products, payroll services, discount checksbusiness advise. This tribe works to provide a flexible and foreign trade transaction support.

This segment encourages the growth of retail stores, professionals and companies by offering flexible products and services according to a customer’s specific activity and stage of development and provides such


customers with the knowledge and tools to streamline their operations and promote networking among such businesses.

Galicia ÉMINENT

Galicia ÉMINENT is a segment of the Bank that provides services targeted towards its high net worth customers.

In 2018, Galicia ÉMINENT grew 28% as a result of an increase in new customers. The number of customers with high-yield investments continues to increase, and the Bank continues to pursue a strategy aimed at positioning the Bank as an investment bank. With respectstraightforward experience to its customer service model, it has continued leading the Net Promoter Score (“NPS”) by 29%, with outstanding performance in the customer service ofclients. Banco Galicia Conecta executives with 40,000 users and other channels such as online banking. NPS is a private, online survey conducted by the Bankhopes that gauges overall customer satisfaction and loyalty based on customers’ willingness to recommend a brand to others.

Private Banking

Private Banking offers distinctive and professional financial services to high net worth individuals, through the management of their investments and the provision of these services helps to form lasting bonds with its clients and yield recurring usage by clients and growing financial advisory services by trained officers. Private Banking offers its customers a wide range of domestic financial investment alternatives, such as deposits, FIMA mutual funds, government and corporate securities, shares and trusts whereresults.

As described above, the Bank acts as a dealer.

Individuals Segment

Banco Galicia’s Individuals Segmentcompanies tribe focuses on lower class, lower-middle class and upper-middle class customers. As of December 31, 2018, approximately 77% of Banco Galicia’s customers belonged to this segment. For this segment, the Bank focuses on communication andthree core areas: customer service models that provide a combination ofexperience, efficiency and a qualitybusiness growth, and, based on these three areas, the following objectives were determined:

To maximize our clients’ profitability through an enhanced offerings and cross-selling, improving the length of the customer’s relationship with Banco Galicia.

To provide the best experience by anticipating and responding to customer experiencerelevant events through digital and self-management channels.

To optimize the automation of processes to improve operationsdigital relationship cycle by facilitating and service availability, accessibility and effectiveness.

The Bank has employed several initiatives to increase the efficiency of its customer service, such as improving obtaining customers’ email addresses and cell phone numbers to increase digital communication. In addition, the Bank now has one universal contact number (instead of 22) and has improved its automated voice response, reducing the number of calls made to its customer service center by 17% in 2018 as compared to 2017. In addition, the Bank has implemented GALA, an automated assistance program, in Argentina. GALA allows clients to ask general questions about the Bank, products and services, 24/7. In 2018, GALA answered more than 100,000 customer inquiries.

In 2018, the Bank also implemented several initiatives to improve customers’ experiences in physical branches. For example, the Bank created a new position in each branch that is responsible for hosting, providing advice and teaching clients to use self-service channels. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Bank improved its NPS score by 4% to 26% as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 and personal banking was ranked second among financial institutions in Argentina.


Financial Banking

The Financial Banking Division includes the commercial, financial entities, public sector, trading and global markets, and investment products and global custody divisions. Additionally, it is also responsible for the mutual funds business, as the Bank is the main distribution channel for mutual funds.

Commercial Division

The Commercial Division is responsible for consolidating the Bank’s position in the Institutional Customer segment (Insurance Companies and Mutual Funds), and acting as the investment channel for other segments of legal entities (Corporate, Public Sector and Financial Entities).

The Commercial Division seeks to reinforce the cross-sale of financial products and encourageencouraging the use of transactional (collections and payments) and financial assets custodydigital products promoting the integrated development of the entire range of customer products.

In 2018, prices and secondary trading volumes were highly volatile. Until their final amortization, the most important asset in 2018 in terms of volume were the Lebacs issued by the Argentine Central Bank. As a result, there was a sharp increase in the trading of other assets (sovereign and provincial bonds and notes), which increased from a monthly average of approximately Ps.3,000 million in 2017 to Ps.12,000 million in 2018 traded with local customers. The primary market also fell significantly, especially among private issuers.

The volume of deposits increased substantially during 2018, mainly due to the change in the asset composition of the Mutual Funds portfolio. In the Institutional Customer segment, the average volume increased from Ps.10,018 million as of December 31, 2017 to Ps.25,918 million as of December 31, 2018. This increase was mainly due to interest-bearing demand deposits made by the Mutual Funds.

Financial Institutions

The Financial Institutions Division is responsible, at an international level, for managing the Bank’s business relationships with partner banks, international credit agencies, official credit banks and export credit insurance companies, and, at a domestic level, with banks, financial companies, exchange houses, and other entities that carry out related activities.

Similar to prior fiscal years, during 2018 bilateral meetings were held with the most active international partner banks, through which the Bank channeled the different products and services offered to its customers. Despite unfavorable macroeconomic conditions in Argentina, the availability of significant support from international banks, such as the IFC, IDB Invest and CAF, made it possible for the Bank to provides credit lines to customers and meet applications for letters of credit and standby letters of credit confirmation, as well as customers’ financing needs.generating a digital journey design for these companies.

Clients in the companies tribe are divided by the type of services that they are given in the following clusters as described below:

As part

Companies

Agrobusiness

Corporate banking

Finance banking

1.

Companies Cluster: Clients in this category are those clients whose annual total sales are between Ps.600 million and Ps.4.5 billion. This category of the companies tribe includes companies across all industries except for companies engaged in agricultural activity, which receives specific attention from the agrobusiness category due to its particular characteristics. According to companies within this category, there was a marked change in their needs during 2020. In response to the to these needs within the context of a global pandemic and with the objective of offering the best and most comprehensive customer service, the customer service model for companies in this category was based on business banking centers that were led by specialized executives, that were strategically distributed throughout the country and that were organized or grouped in five different regions. The customer service offered in-person at these business banking centers was complemented with additional customer service offered online through Banco Galicia’s digital channels, with the goal of making clients’ transactions easy and agile.

2.

Agrobusiness Cluster: This category within the companies tribe is the only one that is determined by the activity of the clients it serves. Given the characteristics of every company, for companies that focus on agriculture and, in particular, the production of agricultural goods, it is crucial to offer a service model that will respond to their needs and complexity in a personalized way. Banco Galicia’s clients’ satisfaction is one of the strategic focuses on which this segment works hard and stands out, allowing it to maintain its leading position in the sector in Argentina. After the success of the Galicia Rural Conecta service model which was launched in 2018 for agricultural clients with accounts in the Greater Buenos Aires and City of Buenos Aires (“AMBA”) region, during 2020 this service was offered by Banco Galicia in three new areas: the cities of Rosario, Mar del Plata, and Córdoba. The inter-annual growth in loan volume for loans granted by Banco Galicia to companies in this category surpassed 80% by October 2020, and Banco Galicia became the leading provider of financing to companies in this category in Argentina. In terms of volume in treasury securities, there was an increase of more than 50% in 2020 as compared to 2019.

3.

Corporate Cluster: Banca Corporativa features a service model that is based on developing commercial, strategic and close, long-term relationships. This category is comprised of 300 economic groups with annual sales that start at Ps.4,500 million or that -given the complexity of their businesses or their multinational profile- might require very specific attention in terms of financial advice and structuring. After considering the particularities of the businesses within this category, the economic sectors in which they operate and the markets that companies in this category access (or hope to access), the Bank has designed solutions that are adapted to the particular demands of these companies with swift response times. Such solutions are also leveraged using digital transactional banking.

4.

Financial Cluster: Financial cluster includes (i) institutional financial clients and (ii) public sector, which are described below.

(i)

Financial institutions: At an international level, Banco Galicia’s clients in the financial banking cluster within the companies tribe are comprised of correspondent banks, international credit agencies, official credit banks, and export credit insurance companies; whereas at a domestic level, Banco Galicia includes banks, financial companies, exchange bureaus, and other entities that carry out related financial activities. During 2020, given the particular context, virtual

meetings were held with the most active foreign correspondent banks in the foreign trade business, and it was through these virtual meetings that the Bank offered the different products and services offered to its clients. Despite the unfavorable macroeconomic situation in Argentina, and even though the supply of credit lines did not increase during 2020, said supply represented a stable source for offering foreign trade financing strategies to clients as well as for responding to requests regarding confirmation of letters of credit and stand-by letters. As the central axis of Banco Galicia’s strategy in terms of offering sustainable financing, the Bank continued to strengthen its long-term relationships with multilateral organizations and official credit banks, such as International Finance Corporation (IFC), Inter-American Development Bank Invest (IDB), Proparco, Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO), Banco de Desarrollo de Brasil (BNDES), Corporación Andina de Fomento, Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau (KFW DEG), OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) and Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), among others, with the purpose of expanding the range of credit lines they had to offer with medium and long term financing for investment projects which are mainly in the agro-industrial sector and in the areas of energy efficiency and renewable energies. At a local level, the analysis and detection of business opportunities with financial institutions continued, with an emphasis on improving the experience and consolidating the leadership in an environment of reciprocity and long-term and stable relationships.

(ii)

Public Sector: The public sector category of the financial cluster within companies tribe is comprised of more than 300 companies. 2020 was a challenging year for companies within this category. After general elections, a new Government took office with resulting in changes of governmental contacts, requiring these companies to form new relationships and bonds with new governmental personnel. Banco Galicia believes in the public-private partnership model as a way of developing business, something that should allow everyone to work on several agendas for political-economic dialogue and generate long-term relationships. Regarding customer positioning -which is measured through the Net Promoter Score (“NPS”) methodology- Banco Galicia achieved a high percentage (48%) for 20202 (its second year of measurement). Last but not least, and within the framework of the COVID-19 pandemic, Banco Galicia implemented a program to help municipalities throughout the country, providing supplies and equipment that helped face and fight the pandemic, thus reinforcing their commitment as relevant community actors.

b) Trading & Global Markets

One of the Bank’s sustainable financing strategy, it continued strengthening its relationships and seeking business opportunities with multilateral agencies and official credit banks, such as the IFC, IDB Invest, the Andean Development Corporation, the FMO, Proparco, the National Economic and Social Development Bank, the DEG, the KFW and OFID, among others, with the goal of broadening the availability of mid- and long-term credit lines to finance investment projects in the agro-industrial, energy and renewable energy sectors.

The Bank also continued developing its business relationships with European export credit insurance companies, such as Hermes, COFACE, SACE and Cesce, among others, with the goal of offering medium- and long-term credit lines to its customers for the import of capital goods.

Domestically, the Bank continued analyzing and identifying business opportunities with financial institutions, focusing on the improvement of customers’ experience and improving its NPS score.


Public Sector

The Public Sector Division seeks to position Banco Galicia as the leading bank used by the public sector by offering financial solutions through transactional, investment and financing products. The Bank’s Public Sector Division continued to grow at a moderate rate in 2018 as result of an increase in the amount of funds managed by the Bank.

Finally, as a result of the foregoing, in 2018 there was a 120% increase in the number of the Bank’s managed public sector loan portfolios as compared to 2017.

Investment Products and Global Custody Division

In 2018, the Investment Products and Global Custody Division relaunched the Bank’s Global Custody product, which is a service provided by the Bank in which it holds funds in custody for clients and also invests such funds on behalf of its clients. The Bank also focused on its institutional customers to strengthen its position in this segment and improve its market share. Income from services related to this division increased 90% in 2018 as compared to 2017 and the number of institutional customers increased 41% in 2018 as compared to 2017.

This division is also responsible for the Bank’s identification, prioritization and management of different technology-related projects. In connection with these digital initiatives, this division undertook two important projects in 2018, which were the (i) replacement of the system of the Investment Product Division and (ii) upgrade of the digital investment platform, in order to significantly improve customers’ experience.

Trading and Global Markets Division

The main responsibilities of the Office of Trading and& Global Markets Division includeis the managementadministration and administrationoperation of the positions in foreign currency, positions,financial derivatives, instruments, governmentliquidity position and corporate securities, public or private, for both proprietary trading andits own portfolio or intermediation, in the primary or secondary market, with counterparties or clients.

With the latest information available in 2020 regarding the secondary market for counterparties, institutional corporate and individual customers. This division is also responsible for developing and applying investment strategies based on the risk parameters determined by the Board of Directors. By providing comprehensive financial strategic advice,fixed income products, Banco Galicia was able to maintain a leading positionranked the fifth place in the Argentine capital markets offering based on debt origination and structuring for local issuers.

Following a favorable first quarter of 2018, there was a marked increasetotal ranking in MAE in the removal of assetslast twelve months, with a 5.62% market share, being the second bank on the list and the first one with national capital.

In relation to the primary market for fixed income, and according to the latest information available from Argentina as a result of the exchange rate crises and devaluation of the Peso during the remainder of 2018. Despite high volatility and perceived market risk, investment by non-resident investors (mainly from the United States, England, Brazil and Chile) continuedMAE, Banco Galicia continues to increase. After the Argentine Central Bank’s implementation of a new monetary policy on October 1, 2018, investmentbe ranked in the Peso renewedfirst place for the eighth consecutive year in orderthe consolidated ranking (Trusts, Corporations and Subsovereigns) of amounts awarded with a market share of 13.9%. Likewise, the provision of comprehensive advice to take advantageits clients has allowed Banco Galicia to stand out especially in the placement of foreign exchange stability and high interest rates.corporate securities, also occupying the first place in the ranking but with a market share of 19.1%.

In the foreign exchange market, Banco Galicia increased its volume of transactions by 26% in 2018 as compared to 2017 and assumed the firstgot second place ranking in the Mercado Abierto Eletrónico (“MAE”) after having traded US$ 32,779 million out of the total US$276,690 traded in the MAE Ranking, after having operated US$6,836 million of the US$63,438 during 2020. The volume traded was reduced by 75% in 2018. Inline with the market decline due to the new regulatory context.

Regarding the bilateral market of futures, Banco Galicia got second place in the MAE Ranking, operating a total volume of US$648 million. Regarding the guaranteed MAE futures market, Banco Galicia maintained its secondgot third place, rankingtrading US$1,939 million with a 14% share, whereas in the MAE, with a total volume of US$4,422 million, increasing from 12.4%ROFEX Ranking it ended in 2017fifth place, falling one place in relation to 23.6% in 2018, while it ranked fourth again in ROFEX’s ranking (second among financial entities). The foreign trade volume transacted amounted to US$9,124 million, a 48% decrease as compared to 2017. In addition, Dollar trading transactions performed well, increasing from US$5,799 million in 2017 to US$6,521 million in 2018.2020.

Banco Galicia ranked second in

ii) Consumption

Through the MAE’s total fixed income ranking in 2018, trading US$81,515 million of the total US$691,609 million traded in the MAE, representing 11.8% of the market share. In addition, Banco Galicia held the third position in the fixed income ranking prepared by Bolsas y Mercados Argentina in 2018 with a total of Ps.266,536 million of the Ps.2,884,588 million traded in the Argentine market, representing 9.24% of the market share and making it the lead market in terms of market share.


With respect to primary issuances, the Bank maintains its first place ranking in the MAE’s consolidated ranking of placement agents (notes, trusts and sub-sovereign securities in the aggregate) with Ps.39,271 million placed during 2018, representing 20.1% of the total issuances placed in the local market, as compared to the Ps.32.864 million placed by the Bank during 2017, representing 16.3% of the total issuances placed in the local market.

Customer Experience

To improve customers’ experience and improve culture, the Bank implemented the projects described below. In 2018, the Bank carried out five major projects aimed at improving customers’ experience:

Design and implementation of improvements and new experiences based on the “Customer Journey” methodology. The goal of this methodology is to improve customer interaction through multidisciplinary teams made up of technology, business and design experts looking to understand and decode customer needs in order to create solutions by applying technological innovation.

Implementation in the Bank of the “Customer Experience Channels Project”, which includes initiatives to resolve or mitigate customer dissatisfaction with customer service channels.

Identification, prioritization and elimination or mitigation of customer complaints.

Implementation, through the GALAcommercial platform of the use of WhatsApp as a mode of communication with clients to facilitate and improve customer service. GALA was first implemented in 2017 on BancoGalicia.com and was launched in 2018 on WhatsApp and on the Bank’s online banking platform to provide 24-hour service to customers.

Reduction of the number of issues resulting in claims filed by customers. Building on the Bank’s 2017 initiative, this initiative continued in 2018 as part of the “First Contact Resolution” program. The goal was to resolve customer complaints and requests on the Bank’s first contact with the relevant customer. With respect to complaints related to commissions, more than 50% of customers resolved their claims on first contact with the Bank.

Consumption

Through Tarjeta Naranja,Ecosistema NaranjaX, Grupo Financiero Galicia offers financing and digital services to low- and medium-income customer segments.segments in Argentina. In addition, through Banco Galicia, Grupo Financiero Galicia also offers credit cards to customers in Argentina.

Tarjeta Naranja continued consolidating its leading position in the regional credit cards market in 2018. According to official data and private market studies, the Bank is the primary issuer of credit cards domestically and is ranked as the leading credit card brand in rural areas of Argentina.2020.

In December 2018, Tarjeta2020, Naranja issued 3.22.9 million account statements, 6%5% less than in 2017.2019. Authorized cards totaled 8.88.6 million, including Naranja Clásica, Naranja Visa, Naranja MasterCard and Naranja American Express. In addition, purchase transactions at stores increased 8%decreased 12% as compared to 2017.2019.

Tarjeta Naranja, Tarjetas Regionales’Ecosistema NaranjaX’ main subsidiary,company, will continue to rely on its strategic pillar of “Organizational Culture and Customer Experience” to grow its customer base and business.business during 2021.

In parallel with Banco Galicia seeking to optimize its operational flexibility as described above, during 2020 Ecosistema NaranjaX sought to operate in a more flexible manner by creating both multidisciplinary and independent intelligence teams, similarly organized into tribes, centers of excellence and squads. These teams operate based on the tenets of collaboration and flexibility and focus on creating and testing the MVPs (products and services in an initial stage of development). Technological improvements were also incorporated into a new app offered by Naranja and a redesign of Naranja Online (“NOL”).

In terms of consumption, one of the highlights in 2019, was the launching of Naranja X, the virtual wallet from Naranja, which focused on technology and digital channels. For more information see “Sales and Marketing”-“Service Channels”-“Digital Channels”-“Naranja X”.

During 2020, Naranja launched Tarjeta Virtual Naranja, available in Naranja App and Naranja Online (“NOL”), to better assist clients in the context of the pandemic. This card allows customers to make purchases online in a more secure way.

iii) Insurance

Galicia Seguros provides life, property and casualty insurance to customers. With respect to property and casualty insurance products, Galicia Seguros primarily underwrites home and ATM theft insurance. With respect to life insurance, group life and personal accident insurance are its most significant source of revenues. Galicia Retiro offers annuity products and Galicia Broker is an insurance broker.

Galicia Seguros, Galicia Retiro and Galicia Broker are subsidiaries that operate exclusively in Argentina and their total premiums and surcharges earned was equal to Ps.7.789 million in 2020.

iv) Other Business

Galicia Administradora de Fondos

Since 1960, Galicia Administradora de Fondos has been dedicated to the administration of the FIMA Common Investment Funds that are distributed through the different commercial channels of Banco Galicia. It has a wide range of investment funds designed for each investor profile, which allows all types of investors to easily access the capital market through the various Fima funds.

For more information please see “Sales and Marketing” – “Fima Funds”, below.

B.2 Competition

Due to our financial holding structure, competition is experienced at the level of our operating subsidiaries. We face strong competition in most of the areas in which our subsidiaries are active. For a breakdown of our total revenues, for each of the past two fiscal years, for the activities discussed below (i.e., banking, credit cards and insurance), see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”-A. “Operating Results”.

i) Banking

Banco Galicia faces significant competition in all of its principal areas of operation from foreign banks operating in Argentina (mainly large retail banks which are subsidiaries or branches of banks with global operations), Argentine national and provincial government-owned banks, private-sector domestic banks and cooperative banks, as well as non-bank financial institutions.

Regarding private-sector customers, Banco Galicia’s main competitors are large foreign banks and certain domestically owned private-sector banks. Banco Galicia also faces competition from government-owned banks.

Banco Galicia’s estimated market share of private-sector deposits in the Argentine financial system was 10.07% as of December 31, 2020, as compared to 9.92% as of December 31, 2019 and 11.09% as of December 31, 2018.

With respect to loans extended to the private sector, Banco Galicia’s Argentine market share was 13.03% as of December 31, 2020, as compared to 11.50% and 10.51% as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, according to the information published by the BCRA.

According to the information published by the BCRA, as of November 30, 2020, Banco Galicia was the largest private-sector bank as measured by its loan portfolio and second as measured by its net worth and deposits.

Banco Galicia believes that it has a strong competitive position in retail banking, both with respect to individuals and SMEs. Specifically, Banco Galicia believes it is one of the primary providers of financial services to individuals, the primary private-sector institution serving SMEs, and has traditionally maintained a leading position in the agriculture and livestock sector.

ii) Argentine Banking System

As of November 30, 2020, the Argentine financial system consisted of 79 financial institutions, of which 64 were banks and 15 were financial non-bank institutions (i.e., finance companies). Of the 64 banks, 13 were Argentine national and provincial government-owned or related banks. Of the 51 private-sector banks, 35 were private-sector domestically owned banks and 16 were foreign-owned banks (i.e., local branches or subsidiaries of foreign banks).

As of November 30, 2020, the top 10 banks, in terms of total deposits (excluding Argentine national and provincial government-owned banks), were: Banco Santander Río, Banco Galicia, Banco Macro, Banco BBVA Argentina, HSBC, Credicoop ICBC and Banco Patagonia. Banco Galicia, Banco Macro and Credicoop are domestically owned banks and the others are foreign-owned banks. According to information published by the BCRA as of November 30, 2020, private-sector banks accounted for 65.8% of total deposits and 62.1% of total net loans in the Argentine financial system. As of the same date, financial institutions (other than banks) accounted for approximately 0.4% of deposits and 2.9% of net loans in the Argentine financial system.

As of November 30, 2020, the largest Argentine national and provincial government-owned or related banks, in terms of total deposits, were Banco Nación, Banco de la Provincia de Buenos Aires and Banco Ciudad de Buenos Aires. Under the provisions of the Financial Institutions’ Law, public-sector banks have comparable rights and obligations to private banks, except that public-sector banks are usually chosen as depositaries for public-sector revenues and promote regional development and certain public-sector banks have preferential tax treatment. The bylaws of some public-sector banks provide that the governments that own them (both national and provincial governments) must guarantee their commitments. According to information published by the BCRA, as of November 30, 2020, government-owned banks and banks in which the national, provincial and municipal governments had an ownership interest accounted for 33.7% of deposits and 35% of loans in the Argentine financial system.

Consolidation has been a dominant theme in the Argentine banking sector since the 1990s, with the total number of financial institutions declining from 214 in 1991 to 78 as of November, 2020, with the ten largest banks holding 75.8% of the system’s deposits from the private sector and 75.6% of the system’s loans to the private sector as of November 30, 2020.

Foreign banks continue to have a significant presence in Argentina, despite the fact that the number of these financial institutions decreased from 39 at the end of 2001 to 16 as of November 2020, and the fact that their share of total deposits has decreased since the 2001-2002 financial crisis while the share of domestic private-sector banks has increased.

The Argentine banking sector focuses on transactional business and lacks a robust supply of medium and long-term lending. Local financial system deposits and loans are equivalent to 27.8% and 12% of the GDP respectively, well below those same ratios for other countries in the region.

iii) Credit Cards

In the consumer loan market, Naranja competes with Argentine banks and other financial institutions that target similar economic segments within the credit cards market. The main players in this segment include Banco Supervielle, Banco Columbia, Banco Comafi, Banco Credicoop, Banco Macro, Banco MasVentas, Banco Municipal de Rosario, Banco Nación (Nativa card), Banco de Córdoba (Cordobesa card), Cabal card, Tarjeta Shopping card, Cencosud, CMR Falabella and CFA (Efectivo Si). Historically, certain international banks with a presence in Argentina have attempted to target consumers in these economic segments and have been, to date and for the most part, unsuccessful.

In order to compete effectively at a national and regional level, Naranja targets low- to middle-income clients by offering personalized services in each region, focusing their commercial efforts mainly on such segments. While other Argentine credit card issuers and consumer loan providers focus on earning interest on outstanding personal loans and credit card balances, Naranja also focus on and has access to additional sources of revenues including merchant fees and commissions, which allows it to offer competitive pricing and financing terms. Furthermore, unlike other credit card issuers in Argentina, approximately 13.4% of Naranja’s clients pay their credit card bill through their branch network. The broad geographical reach of their distribution network, which is the second largest in Argentina, has allowed Naranja to establish a local presence in all the provinces of Argentina.

Naranja believes that their diversified and consistent funding sources, significant network of branches, robust information technology infrastructure, relationships with 310,000 merchants and the brand recognition they enjoy provide them with a competitive edge to consolidate and expand their market share in their target market segment, making it difficult for new players to effectively compete in this market segment on a national scale.

iv) Insurance

Sudamericana’s subsidiaries face significant competition since, as of December 31, 2020, the Argentine insurance industry was comprised of approximately 181 insurance companies, 15 of which were dedicated exclusively to annuities. Subsidiaries of foreign insurance companies and the world’s largest insurance companies with global operations are among these companies.

During 2020, the insurance industry continued to grow. Production amounted to Ps.840,557 million, 35% higher than the level recorded for the prior year. Out of the total insurance production in 2020, 84% related to property insurance, 15% related to life and personal insurance, and 1% related to retirement insurance.

Within the 84% corresponding to property insurance, the automotive insurance segment continues to be the most significant segment, representing 37%, followed by the workers’ compensation segment, representing 23.5%. Within the life insurance segment, the group life insurance segment was the most significant, representing 51%, followed by individual life insurance, representing 28%, and personal accident insurance, representing 14%.

As of December 31, 2020, based on internal studies undertaken by Galicia Seguros, it is estimated that GaliciaSeguros ranked fourth in terms of net premiums for personal accident insurance underwritten and first in terms of net premiums for home and theft insurance underwritten.

B.3. Sales and Marketing

i) Service Channels

Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries interact with their customers through a variety of marketing channels, which include digital tools and physical branches, tailored to meet specific customer needs.

The strategy of the customer service model of Grupo Financiero Galicia is aimed at allowing its customers to access Grupo Financiero Galicia’s companies services (e.g. Banco Galicia, Ecosistema NaranjaX and Galicia Seguros, among others) through all the service channels provided, which allows customers to operate in different assisted channels, both digital and self-managed, and automatic banking, too.

During 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia continued promoting the use of digital platforms and apps and worked on the development of the infrastructure for new online channels in order to replace in-person cashier services for ATM services. Additionally, it increased the limits on money withdrawals on ATMs. With this, online orders placed by the different business sectors can be safely covered and the clients’ demand can be easily satisfied.

In addition, during 2020, Banco Galicia sought to maintain a close relationship with its clients, and with that goal in mind it implemented the following digital and self-managed channels:

Chat conversations through its virtual assistant Gala on its online banking and office banking settings.

Providing contact information for the officers assigned to clients on the office banking platform in order to improve communication.

Online access to account statements, credit accounts, cards and purchases; providing reports on tax investments; and offering self-management instructions and tools for investments.

Providing email messages with notifications and other relevant information.

Foreign Trade follow-up consultations for clients on the office banking settings.

The chart below sets forth Grupo Financiero Galicia’s sales network as of December 31,2020.

As of December 31, 2020

Branches (number)

Banco Galicia

326

Naranja

180

Electronic banking terminals (number)

ATMs

1,013

Self-Service Terminals

1,095

toque

22,041

Digital banking transactions (thousands per month)

Galicia Mobile App

52,737,180

Online Banking

48,038,820

Office Banking

18,612,657

Clients (thousands)

Banco Galicia

3,062,196

Naranja

2,877,565

Naranja X

154,316

Galicia Seguros

2,040,906

Galicia Adminitradora de Fondos

90,764

a) Digital and Self-Management Channels

In order to take care of our clients and to provide them with ongoing service and assistance, Grupo Financiero Galicia is working to respond to the new COVID-19 reality by using updated digital channels and promoting self-management.

During 2020, the particular context that the world was facing led to a sudden increase in the amount of times people accessed their information through virtual channels. The actions taken by our subsidiaries to respond to this are described below.

By promoting self-management, Banco Galicia carried out the following actions in order to increase digital access for its clients:

Extending the time window for when customers can invest in the “Fima Common Investment Funds” in order to provide 24/7 access for investing.

Enabling the possibility of swapping sovereign debt securities using online banking so long as 98% of the holders of the debt to be swapped consent.

Updating product offerings for undertaken transfers of funds to third parties and AFIP Payments (meaning, payments to the Argentine Customs and Tax Authority, “Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos”) in order to make conducting these transactions online more efficient and flexible.

Allowing the digital registration, connection and disassociation of the overdraft agreements.

Digitalizing statements and reports, which eliminated the process of printing, shipping and even reduced the use of paper.

Enabling the deposit of paychecks in custody through the Bank’s self-service terminals (referred to as ITAS) and allowing for the recipient of a paycheck in custody to deposit the paycheck before its maturity date and to further request the redemption of the same without the need of an in-person cashier service.

Likewise, Naranja continued working on the digitalization of its platforms and updated its features, adding new technologies and processes while also further refining existing channels in order to improve the overall customer experience. The developments implemented focused on three main objectives:

Developing digital platforms with the best customer experience in the market.

Enlarging the portfolio of fully digital clients by offering products and allowing consultations in all of its platforms.

Enabling Naranja’s businesses to function through technological innovation.

Galicia Seguros accelerated the implementation of new communication channels to facilitate the customer experience. Also, a chat room was added on the corporate website and the call center received a new tool called COLLAB, which allows Galicia Seguros to manage all customer service channels (telephone, WhatsApp, Chat, E-mail and Facebook Messenger) at the same time. All these assets were added to the traditional sales and service channels. Galicia Seguros is making progress in the automation of processes and using robotization tools that allow it to capture improvements in recurring procedures within the sales and after-sales processes. In order to achieve this, they have worked jointly and collaboratively with their business partners: Banco Galicia and Naranja. Accordingly, they developed new functionalities for the contracting process and after-sales management within the digital platforms of Online Banking, Naranja Online and their respective applications. One of them is the possibility of consulting and downloading the acquired policy, the contract for new coverage, the details regarding the assistance services, and the monitoring and follow-up of claims and complaints.

As of the date hereof, these are some of the Grupo Financiero Galicia’s (or its subsidiaries) digital and self-management channels:

1.

Galicia App: this is the mobile online banking app for Banco Galicia. In 2020, this app experienced exponential growth in features offered and their use by clients. Among other functions, the ability to make an appointment at a branch office in advance online, withdraw funds from an ATM with no card, and access ATMs with a fingerprint were incorporated. Likewise, the main screen of the app was redesigned for an enhanced experience, and the option of sending or requesting money to someone registered on the mobile phone’s contact list was added. In order to guarantee the security of the users and their operations, Banco Galicia added the option of biometric fingerprint access, updated the process of connection to Token Galicia (Token Galicia is a numeric code that allows Banco Galicia’s customers to do banking transactions) to a 100% online process, and implemented on Online Banking an intelligence system for the recovery of credentials.

2.

Online Banking: Banco Galicia added the option to self-manage credit card payments as well as an option to pre-settle debt refinancing. The Bank worked to update services and streamline operations for its “Personas” (or individual) clients. Galicia Seguros provides life, property and casualty insurance to customers. With respect to property and casualty insurance products, Galicia Seguros primarily underwrites home and ATM theft insurance. With respect to life insurance, group life and personal accident insurance are its most significant source of revenues. Galicia Retiro offers annuityalso added more products and Galicia Broker is an insurance broker.


Galicia Seguros, Galicia Retiro and Galicia Broker are subsidiaries that operate exclusively in Argentina and their total insurance underwriting was equal to Ps.3,902 million in 2018.

Galicia Retiro’s business plan for 2019 is to maintain its current business and relaunch voluntary retirement products (for both individuals and groups). Galicia Seguros has been developing alternative sales channels and new points of contact and sales, to increase the Bank’s insurance customer base.

Additionally, its business initiatives for 2019 are as follows:

boosting the business with supplementary productsservices to Banco Galicia’s coreonline banking offerings, such as pet insurance and a chat room in the section called “Tenencia de Seguros” (Insurance Holdings) in order to help clients at the same time that the inquiries arise.

3.

Office Banking: this is a web-based online platform that Banco Galicia offers to clients in its “companies tribe”. Banco Galicia has encouraged self-management, and companies are now able to carry out a credit assessment of themselves with just one click. During 2020, 95% of loans for companies and 75% of cash advances were carried out digitally from Office Banking.

4.

Gala: this is the name of Banco Galicia’s virtual assistant. It is featured in five different channels and it functions 24x7. Gala was designed to answer customer and non-customer inquiries, providing information on more than 200 topics related to products, services, password management and Quiero! Points, among other things. It also allows you to know the status of the shipment of products, and Banco Galicia is currently working on the pilot stage of checking balances and movements of accounts and cards through the WhatsApp channel. This virtual assistant is prepared to transfer clients to a bank official at the digital call center whenever it fails to understand what the person is trying to ask. The Bank continues to work on the evolution of its virtual assistant to provide solutions that will allow this self-management area to grow. During 2020, it increased its monthly average conversations by 350% as compared to 2019.

5.

Web Naranja: Naranja improved the website’s user help center search function, achieving a 96% success rate for users finding the answers they were seeking in comparison to that of 55% prior to this change.

6.

Naranja Online (NOL): this is Naranja’s web platform. During 2020, Naranja incorporated all of its products and services into Naranja Online, favoring users’ online operations; and it also allowed for non-digital clients to access digital products by providing payment links for the payment of statements that previously would have been made in person. In order to guarantee the security of the users, identity authentication tools were developed for access via text and email messages and also push notifications for sale and communication for users browsing Naranja online. Additionally, clients can now buy top-ups for their mobile phone lines from NOL without the need to pay in cash and instead by having the amount added to their monthly credit card billing statement.

7.

Tienda Naranja: the Tienda Naranja platform was relaunched, and its launching included an expansion in the range of products offered, the inclusion of an app as a new sales channel, an algorithm that analyzes the clients behavior and suggests products accordingly, and the provision of estimates of shipping times, improvement in delivery times, etc. As a result, and due to the increase in online consumption nationwide, there was a year-on-year growth in sales of 300% and 260% in visits as compared to 2019.

8.

Naranja en tu Celular (Naranja on your phone): this is a service of notifications by text messages (SMS) which informs clients about the latest movements in their accounts and allows them to check their balance and buy top-ups for a cell phone line and pay for them as part of their next monthly invoice. In 2020, Naranja also incorporated the possibility of recharging public transportation cards via SMS and added new warning messages regarding cancellations and refunds.

9.

WhatsApp: Naranja X (previously mentioned) developed an automated service bot via WhatsApp in order to also be available app. This automated service bot was well-received by customers. By encouraging online payments, online downloads of products and online credit card purchases, the company contributed to the understanding of products and services as being a part of a single ecosystem. Galicia Seguros launched its corporate WhatsApp channel to streamline all procedures, and this channel became the clients’ first option when contacting the company.

10.

Social Networks: due to the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, users turned to social networks in a massive way. Faced with this new scenario with no open branch offices and no phone assistance, social networks played a significant role when it came to providing information to and communicating with our clients. In this sense, Banco Galicia created permanent and real-time content in order to be closer to its clients than ever. Naranja worked on a content strategy that focused on providing users with useful information for self-management, taking into account the most frequent inquiries received through the help center. This led to great growth in the number of clients joining the Bank’s Facebook account, going from 16,000 cases of monthly pre-pandemic consultations, to a peak of 72,000 cases in April 2020 and more than 60,000 in May of 2020. The number of officers assisting clients was twice as large, and the opening hours were extended in order to ensure a 24-hour response, and that included Sundays and national holidays. Likewise, the Bank activated social listening in order to truly understand how clients were feeling about these changes and what the most frequent questions were, and it used that as input for the design of the content, including the empathic tone in the conversations. On its Facebook Fan page, Galicia Seguros offers content aimed at enhancing its relationship with its clients and also content about its products, coverage and benefits. In addition, the Bank also manages claims and after-sales services from this network.

b) Assisted Channels

Officers and executives at Grupo Financiero Galicia offer clients assisted support. Banco Galicia and Naranja feature a large network of branch offices throughout the country, help centers for clients, and remote customer service.

In order to take care of both clients and employees, Banco Galicia paid particular attention to safety features for the reopening of its branch offices, established a system of appointments, and implemented various security protocols.

Also, Banco Galicia transferred simple paperwork to Galicia POINT: a phone channel through which representatives who work remotely can answer inquiries.

Additionally, during 2020, Banco Galicia developed a new channel for its clients: supplementary financial services agents, also known as non-banking correspondents. Through this new channel, clients can carry out transaction operations, such as the payment of statement balances, receipt of ANSES subsidies (subsidies granted by the Argentine Government Department that administers the funds of the country’s state-run pension system Administración Nacional de la Seguridad Social-), and make cash withdrawals, in stores or collecting companies, such as Pago Fácil (“easy pay”). In this way, Banco Galicia expanded its geographic coverage and further grew its network of face-to-face service channels, resulting in an improved customer experience.

Plus, by moving a variety of transactions to non-banking correspondents, Banco Galicia was able to provide more efficient and better service at its various branches and through its online product offerings. By December 2020, an average of 150,000 monthly operations were performed at Banco Galicia’s non-banking correspondents, totalling Ps.1,200 million. Services were offered by non-banking correspondents at almost 300 points throughout the country in 2020. In addition, these non-banking correspondent, points were authorized and able to disburse ANSES social assistance benefits to Banco Galicia’s clients; such as, for example, the IFE plan -which stands for emergency family income and which was implemented as a way of social assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During 2020, Naranja went ahead with the general deployment of its strategy called Sucursales del Futuro (Branches of the Future), a project that is focused on providing a better experience to clients, moving from spaces for transactions to places for relationships, advice and training. To implement the new model, branch offices in the provinces of Mendoza, San Juan, Córdoba, San Luis, Santa Fe, Buenos Aires, Chubut, Santiago del Estero and Río Negro had to undergo some restoration, remodeling and relocation works. In 2020, the new service model reached 30 different branch offices, which were added to the nine already existing before December 31, 2019, making this service tool available to 28% of all clients throughout the country. For the fiscal year of 2021, the deployment is expected to reach another 31 branch offices, reaching 76% of the clients.

Also, Naranja’s telephone channel became a 24x7 assistance channel.

c) Automatic Banking

Automatic banking comprises self-service terminals (TAS) and ATMs, all of them located at Banco Galicia and Naranja branch offices and other spots in the country.

During 2020, Banco Galicia worked on the following initiatives, in order to offer clients more comfort while operating transactions:

New withdrawal order functionalities in the self-service terminals and ATMs, with the aim of allowing clients to send money even to third parties that do not have a savings account or a Galicia debit card and a Banelco PIN (Personal Identification Number. This 4-digit number allows customers to operate through ATMs with a Galicia Debit Card).

Increase in withdrawal limits.

Deposit of paychecks in custody and sale of paychecks.

The ability to use paychecks under custody to make pending payments.

Withdrawal order for companies through Office Banking for an amount of up to Ps.100,000.

During 2020, Naranja increased the number of digital service spots in 23 branch offices, installing 41 TAS and setting up 9 24-hour service areas. Not only was interrelation with clients made easier, but also Naranja began to offer safer and more agile channels and technology support tools.

ii) Products and Services

With a strategic vision to become a financial platform, Grupo Galicia provides products and services tailored for each customer, individual or company, that are designed to satisfy their unique needs. Through products and services tribes, Grupo Galicia creates and manages these products and services, including financing, E-checks, insurance, credit cards, investments, foreign trade operations, among others.

a) Financing

The application and registration processes in 2020 were 100% digital and adapted to the COVID-19 context, with the goal of allowing everyone to proceed with no difficulties or obstacles whatsoever. The average end-to-end interaction time during 2020 was 72 hours.

Regarding the evolution of loans, interest rates remained relatively stable during the first semester of 2020, and that led to an average of approximately Ps.2,000 million per month of new loans extended to clients. As of April 2020, there was a drop in demand, and then this began to change during the second half of the year as a result of the slow but steady reactivation of certain activities.

Among Banco Galicia’s financing products and services, the following stand out for 2020:

1.

Financing without guarantees: clients in the companies tribe had access to over 25,000 loans for over Ps.80,000 million.

2.

Financing with guarantees: more than 100 pledge agreements were generated with the country’s main agricultural, construction and transportation brands, and 1,000 companies were financed for Ps.8,000 million through the Galicia Convenios digital platform. Banco Galicia also used SGR (mutual guarantee associations)-guaranteed loans to finance MiPyMEs (as defined below) from various industrial and other business adjustedsectors. In 2020, Ps.3,700 million were granted, financing more than 1,000 clients.

3.

FOGAR Assistance: Banco Galicia was the largest underwriter within the FOGAR Assistance Line with a total amount of Ps.3,700 million. The Argentine guarantee fund (FoGar) is a public trust which helps Micro, Small and Medium companies (MiPyMEs) to each segment;obtain credit. The Government provides partial or total guarantees to companies which are used to help them receive loans through this fund.

4.

expandingDiscount of documents: 12,500 customers discounted checks.

5.

Préstamos Express (Express Loans): through Online Banking, Banco Galicia offers loans with a total repayment schedule that goes from 2 to 45 days. Préstamos Express is a product exclusively designed for clients who have not hired the salepayroll services of insurance to companies;

making management effective to support the business volume growth and updating the management system;

consolidating its insurance position for individuals, taking advantage of synergies with GrupoBanco Galicia and developingwhich helps them better manage their finances. During 2020, the Bank reached an over-the-counter marketaverage of Ps.2,000 million of loans granted per month. Through the digital channels of Naranja, clients have access to pre-qualified personal loans, both in fixed installments and additional channels;

minimizing expenses; and

fosteringin Argentine pesos. In 2020, the Bank offered a positive work environment.maximum of Ps.100,000 and 24 installments.

 

6.

Other Businesses

Agro Lines: Financiamiento Galicia Administradora de Fondos

Since 1960,Rural, which evolved from Tarjeta Galicia Administradora de Fondos has been engagedRural, was launched in 2020, and it featured an integrated platform that included the main brands in the managementfinancing of FIMA mutual funds marketedworking capital sectors related to both agricultural and livestock businesses.

7.

Mortgage Loans: the placement of mortgage loans in general and of mortgage loans adjusted by UVA, had already been affected during 2019 as a result of the Argentine national economic context

prevailing at that time. In 2020, due to the increase in the price of UVA and the adverse effect that the pandemic had on the economy, the product was not offered by the Bank. In addition to the risk of affecting the fee / income ratio of our clients, the product continued to be subject to strong regulations by the Government. During the last months of 2019 and in the first months of 2020, with the purpose of unfreezing the mortgage loan value adjustments, the Government implemented a model whereby the value of UVA will be progressively incremented and updated until it reaches its fair market value. In March 2020, a national decree established a new freezing of the UVA value adjustment and consequently a freezing in the value adjustment of the mortgage loan, together with the suspension of foreclosure executions and the impossibility of reporting arrears due to non-payment, among other measures that were established within the framework of public emergency. As of January 31st,2021, the Government is carrying out a new model to increment the value of UVA again which foresees the unfreezing of UVA adjustment in 17 installments, the last one to be paid in June 2022.

8.

Impact financing: Banco Galicia’s clients. In 2018, new distributors were addedGalicia promotes a triple impact business model through which it enhances its role in sustainable development, which begins with the design and implementation of products that contemplate the social and environmental aspects of the projects that are financed, thus focusing on financial inclusion, climate change, diversity, social investment, and impact investment. The following chart highlights certain products offered by this area and the impact in 2020.

PRODUCT

DESCRIPTION

IMPACT

+B LineSpecial financing for triple impact companies, with a special focus on B Companies.Ps.38.8 million
placed to reach additional customers. It currently12 financed projects
Certified Agriculture Line - AAPRESIDFor SME producers with a certification in Certified Sustainable Agriculture.Ps.12.7 million
placed to 4 clients
Line for Essential Supplies for Containment of COVID-19Financing line for the working capital of SMEs that produce and provide essential sanitation and health supplies.

Ps.1,236 million placed

705 credits granted

Green BondWith the aim to collect US$100 million in order to expand its loan program for environmental efficiency projects.

US$58 million
in financed projects

18 liquidated projects

b) E-Checks

Banco Galicia developed an electronic check, an instrument which allows companies to make collections and payments online and which has now become a key tool. In 2020, Banco Galicia launched a new product called “Payment to Suppliers with Electronic Checks” (Pago a Proveedores con Cheques Electrónicos), which has enabled the migration of all operations to digital options that can be self-managed by the client. It also launched the “Discount Simulation (Simulación de descuento) feature. This helps the client see the actual offer before depositing the check in custody.

A total of 1,387,514 electronic checks were issued during 2020.

c) Insurance

Galicia Seguros has a wide range of products that, in turn, provide a large number of different insurance coverages, fully covering the different needs of customers, based on their occupation, age or income level.

Insurance is sold to customers of Banco Galicia as well as of Naranja, so that Galicia Seguros scope of business includes the entire country and every economic segment. Galicia Seguros offers specific coverage through its broker, so that each customer feels protected and has support in everything it needs.

In 2020, Galicia Seguros updated its coverage by launching a new product for pets and a technical insurance with multi-risk coverage for companies, and it also added new telemedicine services and nutritional and psychological assistance to its home and life insurance product offerings.

As part of the group of newly launched products, together with an insurtech company, WeCover, a 100% digital on-demand bicycle insurance was offered starting in June 2020. This insurance may be easily activated and deactivated in accordance with the client’s needs and desires at a given moment.

A new product for pets was also presented: a complete insurance policy for dogs and cats which does not only cover accidents, illnesses, loss or death of the animal, but it also provides day-to-day services and assistance. Some of these services are: veterinary consultations, transfers needed due to an accident or a health issue, vaccinations, oral hygiene and daycare service, so that families can go on vacation knowing that their dog or cat is safe and being taken care of. This product can be acquired by Banco Galicia clients through Online Banking.

Likewise, other services were incorporated into the home and life insurance offerings for a limited time and were particularly designed to accompany clients during the mandatory isolation period. This is how clients were able to make use of the telemedicine service and nutritional and psychological assistance. In this case, the possibility of contracting services through Naranja Online or through the Naranja and Banco Galicia applications was also incorporated.

Finally, for clients in the companies tribe, Galicia Seguros launched Seguro Técnico (Technical Insurance), a multi-risk coverage that covers machinery and electronic equipment.

In 2019, Galicia Seguros launched “Fondo Futuro”, a new 100% online retirement insurance product. Fondo Futuro is the first retirement insurance with 100% digital procurement in Argentina. It is a low-risk medium or long term savings and individual pension system. It works as a retirement supplement, to carry out an individual’s desired retirement plan. The individual insured may partially or totally withdraw the funds, as well as increase, decrease or suspend the contributions made, without generating any debt with Galicia Seguros. The launching of Fondo Futuro made Galicia Seguros the first Argentine entity to be able to issue a 100% online policy with this type of insurance.

In 2020, the online retirement insurance product “Fondo Futuro” had an increase of 124% in the number of policies in force reaching a total of 824 insured clients, where 85% of them represents contributions in Ps. and the remainder corresponds to contributions in US$. By 2020, the total billing of Fondo Futuro was Ps.18.1 million with a monthly average of Ps.1.5 million.

d) Credit Cards

The companies of Grupo Financiero Galicia respond to the needs of their customers with an outstanding offer of services and benefits of credit and debit cards.

Banco Galicia responds to the needs of its clients with an outstanding offer of services and benefits provided through its Galicia Credit and Debit Cards. Banco Galicia offers Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards, and they are offered to clients of all tribes. Some of the products offered are the International, Gold, Platinum, Black/Signature cards, which feature different consumer financing options and exclusive promotions for all their clients.

As of December 31, 2020, Banco Galicia has a stock of active cards of more than 5 million, while Naranja surpasses 8.5 million cards.

In alliance with Garmin (a watch manufacturer and company), Banco Galicia has launched contactless payments that can easily be made through a Garmin watch for Galicia Mastercard cards. The Bank also implemented tokenization in order to improve the safety of the transactions through ecommerce, subscriptions and face-to-face purchases. Over 300,000 token-based transactions were made in 2020.

For its part, in 2020 Naranja launched the Naranja Virtual Card, which is available at Naranja and through the Naranja Online App and was designed to assist clients in the context of the current pandemic. This card allows clients to make purchases online in a more secure way. It has a CVV (Verification Code) that is generated every time the client needs to use it. The Naranja Virtual Card does not replace the actual plastic credit card, as it has a different OCR (Optical Character Recognition.) This card is available to be requested by more than 2.5 million clients, including account owners and their additional cardholders. Total purchases using this product since the product was launched in 2020 is, to date, higher than Ps.450 million, with an average purchase of Ps.8,000.

Additionally, and as of the second quarter of 2020, clients can also use Ajnaran (Naranja spelled backwards), a credit card that is printed at the very moment the account owner wishes to make a purchase (rather than having to wait for a new credit card to be delivered to the client’s house) and which has a validity of three years. In 2020, and thanks to special home delivery services, delivery times for physical credit cards were also improved, achieving a significant reduction in the SLA (Service Level Agreement) for card delivery: 25% of clients now receive their cards in less than 48 hours, and 60% in 10 business days. In 2020, more than 58,000 Ajnaran cards were delivered throughout the country.

e) Investments

Banco Galicia has a wide range of investment products that meet the needs and the profile of every client. Before making an investment, all clients are surveyed in order to see their aversion to risk and to find the products that best suit their objectives. This survey is renewed every year.

Additionally, the client receives personal advice coming from the branch network and through the Investment and Private Banking Center for clients in said cluster.

In 2020, Banco Galicia continued to deepen its digital transformation by improving the value proposition of investment products, offering new functionalities and technological solutions in the different channels and also by strengthening its main system of investment and custody of products.

f) Global Custody

With regards to the Global Custody service in 2020, Banco Galicia has continued to increase the positioning of the product, mainly by focusing on the Insurance Companies and Corporate companies.

When compared to 2019, this product has experienced a 45% growth in assets under custody (“AUC”), a 25% growth of Insurance Companies (measured in the number of clients), and 9% growth for the corporate cluster.

g) Fima Funds

Galicia Administradora de Fondos has a wide range of investment funds designed for each investor profile, which allows all types of investors to easily access the capital market through the various Fima funds. The market share of common investment funds was 9.97% as of December 31, 2020, increasing 37 basis points (“bp”) as compared to December 31, 2019. The following is a list of the Fima funds offered:

1.

Fima Premium: this is a fund that provides immediate-online liquidity with a yield close to a fixed-term deposit. It invests mainly in remunerated sight accounts and fixed-term certificates. For very short-term investments in pesos

2.

Fima Ahorro Pesos: it seeks to obtain yield from a portfolio of short-term bonds denominated in Argentine pesos. Its portfolio mainly includes treasury bills denominated in Argentine pesos, fixed terms, bonds and remunerated (i.e. interest generating) accounts, among others. Suitable for conservative short-term investments, for example, those with an investment horizon of approximately 30-60 days.

3.

Fima Ahorro Plus: is an investment portfolio includes short/medium term bonds denominated in Argentine pesos with low volatility and high liquidity. This is an alternative for those investors looking for a balance of risk and return. Its investment portfolio includes treasury bills in pesos, negotiable liabilities of first-line companies, provincial Government debt securities, fixed terms, bonds and remunerated (interest generating) accounts, among others. The investor profile allowingin this case is conservative/moderate and the recommended horizon is 90 to 120 days.

4.

Fima income in Argentine pesos: the aim of the fund is to maximize the yield of a varietyportfolio of investors to easily access the capital markets through the various FIMA funds with as little as Ps.100 or US$100:assets in pesos at a fixed and variable rate over a medium term. Its portfolio composition includes sovereign bonds, treasury bills denominated in Argentine pesos, negotiable liabilities and financial trusts, among others. Recommended for moderate investments that may last between 1 and 2 years.

5.

Time Deposit Funds: These fundsFima renta plus:it invests mainly invest in time depositsa portfolio of medium/long-term bonds denominated in Argentine pesos. It includes negotiable securities and interest-bearing checking accounts held at financial institutions, which grant a high degree of liquidity and steadiness in their returns. (Fima Premium).

Bond Funds: These funds invest in local and foreign governmentpublic and private securitiesfixed income instruments in pesos, mainly sovereign bonds, negotiable liabilities, and provincial bonds and bills, among others. Suitable for moderate/risky investments of over 2 years

6.

Open Fima SMEs: the aim of the fund is to obtain returns from a portfolio comprised of instruments of fixed income or variable income that are issued by SMEs or companies with different risk profileslow market capitalization, with a long-term investment horizon.

7.

Fima Capital plus: its aim is to maximize the yield of a portfolio composed of dollar linked bonds and tenors. Some funds investsynthetic assets that replicate the evolution of the exchange rate, with liquidity in Peso-denominated securities (FIMA Ahorro Pesos, FIMA Ahorro Plus, FIMA Renta en Pesos, FIMA Renta Plus, FIMA Capital Plus)48 hours.

8.

Fima international fixed income: this alternative seeks to obtain profitability from a portfolio of medium-term dollar bonds, mainly coming from Latin American markets and othersup to 25% in Dollar-denominated securities (FIMA Renta Dólares I and FIMA Renta Dólares II). BeginningAmerican treasury bonds. The design of the investment portfolio does not include local bonds, something that will reduce the volatility of the fund.

9.

Fima mix I:fund in 2018, somepesos composed of these funds also investlocal assets that seek to monitor the evolution of the “official dollar,” combined with a lower participation in international bonds (FIMA Renta Fija Internacional).

Equity Funds: These funds invest in the corporate securitiesvariable income of Argentine companiesshares that are listed on the CNV. In addition, FIMA Acciones Latinoamérica, raisedNew York Stock Exchange, through CEDEARs. Local fixed income assets provide the fund with certain stability whereas the equity portion adds greater volatility in November 2018, investssearch of higher returns.

10.

Fima shares: the aim of the fund is long-term capital appreciation, achieved by investing in Argentine companies that are members of the S&P Merval panel. The investment policy that was developed with respect to the benchmark index (S&P Merval) is all about accompanying the actual growth of the economy through the selection of stocks with good performance in their indicators. Long-term shares of Argentine companies.

11.

Fima PB shares:fund composed of shares that belong to the “S&P Merval” panel. This index considers the evolution of national and international companies that are listed on the local market. Suitable for investors seeking to follow the benchmark by investing in a portfolio managed by specialists in this market.

12.

Fima shares Latin America: it is a variable income fund in dollars. The investment portfolio is mainly made up of Latin American stocks. This fund’s benchmark is the S&P Latin America 40, Index, which includesintegrates shares from the majormain economic sectors of Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Colombia and Peru, among others.

In 2020, Galicia Administradora de Fondos got the first place in the FCI Money market category with its Fima Premium fund, same place in the T + 1 category with its Fima Ahorro Pesos and Fima Ahorro Plus funds, and also got the first place in the dollar linked category with its Fima fund Capital Plus.

Banco Galicia and La Nación co-created the podcast called “Los números también hablan” (Numbers Speak, Too) in which they talk about all the benefits and advantages of the Fima Funds. They also created a series of videos on YouTube and educational digital talks to stay close to their clients.

h) Inviu

It is through Inviu that Grupo Financiero Galicia has developed a digital investment platform that allows users, both investors and financial advisors, to manage their portfolios in an efficient, simple and user-friendly way. This platform was launched on the market in October 2020.

i) Galicia Securities

Galicia Securities offers financial and stock market services to individuals, companies and financial institutions. It is an agent of BYMA, MAE, MAV and performs CIDA services. This new company is already occupying leading positions in the Fixed Income market, given the fact that it ranked second in the BYMA ranking with 3.6% market share in the last quarter of 2020.

j) Foreign Trade

Through the office banking electronic platform, customers can make payments and manage their collections abroad. Likewise, the Galicia Comex department offers product and service options that are tailored to export and import operations, in addition to keeping customers continuously informed of the developments in this area. Banco Galicia continues to accompany its clients in their international businesses through a personalized electronic platform and differentiated funding lines.

In 2020, the volume of foreign trade transactions undertaken by Banco Galicia was equal to US$16,153 million, representing 12.0% of the Argentine foreign trade market share. Of such amount, US$3,043 million was attributable to exports and imports of goods, representing 12.8% of the market share for such transaction. In terms of volume, in 2019, based on the above statistics, the Bank ranked third in Argentine for volume of foreign trade transactions. Through office banking, the Bank’s customers have access to special lines of financing: leasing of imported products, financing of imports and exports, guarantees (“avales”) and Stand By.

Galicia Seguros has surety policies for every need: Temporary importation or exportation, differences in law, value or lack of documentation, land transit and replacement of precautionary measures. It also offers surety insurance coverage when this is required to guarantee liabilities before the AFIP. - Tax and Customs Administration . Through its Comex Tribe, Banco Galicia works to guarantee quality in end-to-end foreign trade operations and safety in the application of current regulations. In order to do this, the Bank implements a Call & Ops service model in which the service circle contacts clients directly and answers their questions, provides advice and resolves any difficulties during the preparation of the corresponding documentation.

k) Capital Market & Investment Banking

Banco Galicia consolidated its position in the Capital Market and Investment Banking by structuring various financial products that are tailored for corporate, SME and agricultural companies. In this regard, the Bank has organized more than 50 transactions in the capital market, with a wide variety of products that included, among others, debt securities, short-term securities, letters and financial trusts.

The issuance of public securities by the City of Buenos Aires for $21,001 million and the ones made by the energy sector for $41,239 million are two of the most important operations that were placed in pesos. In addition to that, the appetite in the market for dollar linked bonds re-emerged during 2020. In that sense, in 2020, the Bank participated in 37 issuances for more than US$1,222 million, mainly from the energy industry and companies linked to the agricultural sector chain. Among the operations placed in Dollars, it is also worth highlighting the issuances for more than US$137 million made by the energy sector and the participation as local Underwriters in the exchanges abroad for both AA 2000 and CGC for US$502 million.

From Investment Banking, and as a consequence of the difficulties faced by many companies as a result of the COVID-19 health crisis and the adverse macroeconomic context, the Bank focused on accompanying its clients by restructuring their liabilities with financing methods according to their needs and in the most sustainable way possible, thus completing more than 10 operations for more than $2,800 million.

l) Benefits

EMINENT benefits

In order to provide a commensurate experience for EMINENT clients, we develop targeted proposals that are in line with the pillars of the EMINENT proposal. This is a value proposition focused on art, sports, fashion, gastronomy, women and family. Besides, this proposal adds a series of experiences related to personal well-being, through the concept of Wellness Life.

Quiero! program

Banco Galicia continues to offer more discounts and benefits, with a catalog of more than 1,500 options in different categories such as: savings, post-purchase, physical products, vouchers, and travel and tourism. The site of Quiero! shows clients relevant offers according to their profile and consumption patterns. This leads to a better experience regarding the redemption of points and makes the program simpler and more assertive. During 2020, 330,000 clients used at least one of the benefits.

Benefits in Plan Z

Naranja has assisted its clients with benefits in Plan Zeta (offering 3, 6, 9 and 12 payment installments), discounts, and special plans and deferred payment offers for the purchase of essential items such as those made in supermarkets, pharmacies, door-to-door services, and gas stations. As restrictions became more flexible, the Bank added other categories to the value proposition and encouraged online consumption through discounts and special payment plans. Benefits were activated for special dates such as Friendship Day, Father’s Day, Children’s Day, Mother’s Day and end-of-year parties in specific categories such as clothing, sports, construction and electro. This year, following the growth of online commerce, Naranja became an official sponsor of Cyber Monday for the first time, introducing itself as a means of payment. This participation had a positive impact on consumption, the negotiation of promotions aimed at online sales, and the positioning of the brand. Naranja communicated over 40 promotions every month, using the strategies of 360° communication approach and considering all types of media, especially the Internet. The Smartes (benefits given on Tuesdays) benefit helped clients obtain a 20% discount and then another discount for another 5% through the seniority promotion at Plan Z. At the end of the fiscal year, 30% of Naranja’s turnover was driven by more than monthly 2,500 promotions that were distributed in 9,500 different points throughout the country.

Quiero! in Naranja

The registration for the Naranja customer loyalty program was launched in May 2020. Some of the most outstanding events included the chance to access Quiero! through the NOL (Naranja Online) and App Naranja channels, the redemption points for discounts on certain items and businesses when using Naranja, the registration of 70% of the most important businesses in the country for the redemption points deal with Naranja, and login/registration functionality at quiero.com.ar through Naranja credentials. At the end of the fiscal year, there were 50,000 Naranja clients and 180,000 clients shared with Banco Galicia.

Naranja X

Since the launch of its prepaid card, Naranja X has been offering specific promotions for new customers and only on particular dates such as HotSale and CyberMonday. In addition, it has fixed discounts for all its customers in the payment of services and purchase of products.

m) MODO

MODO is the new digital payment solution, launched jointly by over thirty public and private banks in the country. This tool allows banked users to make transfers and payments in stores easily and from their cell phones. This virtual wallet allows the user to have an all-in-one app to check balances and transfer and receive money from other users from their bank accounts in other banks.

From the Galicia app, you can access MODO and use the QR code to make payments to affiliated stores. Another feature is the possibility of transferring money to people registered as a contact on your cell phone, without the need to request a Unique Banking Key (Clave Bancaria Uniforme, “CBU”) or an Alias. This alliance is a great step for our clients because they will no longer need their physical wallet and they will have the chance to migrate to digital channels to make their daily transactions as secure, agile, and effective as always.

n) Naranja X

At the end of 2019 Grupo Financiero Galicia launched Naranja X, Naranja’s Fintech arm that is currently part of the Ecosistema NaranjaX.

Naranja X developed an app with an account in Argentine pesos and a prepaid Naranja X Visa card, free of charge, with contactless technology and a vertical design which is new in this country. With this card, it is possible to make purchases and payments at any store or digital platform in the world, add your automatic debits, or withdraw cash through ATMs. Additionally, the app offers the possibility of transferring money immediately between virtual and bank accounts; buying top-ups for your cell phone lines; loading the public transportation card in every Argentine province; paying over 5,000 services; and paying the Naranja account’s statement.

B.4 Selected Statistical Information

You should read this information in conjunction with the other information provided in this annual report, including our audited consolidated financial statements and Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”. We prepared this information from our financial records in conformity with IFRS.

i) Average Balance Sheet and Income from Interest-Earning Assets and Expenses from Interest-Bearing Liabilities

The average balances of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, including the related interest that is receivable and payable, are calculated on a monthly basis for Banco Galicia and Tarjetas Regionales on a consolidated basis. The average balances of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities are calculated on a quarterly basis for Grupo Financiero Galicia and its other non-banking subsidiaries.

The following table shows our consolidated average balances, accrued interest and average yield for interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018.

   For the Fiscal Year Ended
December 31, 2020
   For the Fiscal Year Ended
December 31, 2019
   For the Fiscal Year Ended
December 31, 2018
 
   Average
Balance
   Accrued
Interest
   Average
Yield /
Rate
   Average
Balance
   Accrued
Interest
   Average
Yield /
Rate
   Average
Balance
   Accrued
Interest
   Average
Yield /
Rate
 
   (in millions of Pesos, except otherwise noted) 

Interest-Earning Assets

                  

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

                  

Government Securities

   155,630    62,430    40.11    166,505    84,883    50.98    93,353    28,708    30.75 

Others Debt Securities

   1,385    1,015    73.29    1,838    888    48.31    3,541    799    22.56 

Total Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   157,015    63,445    40.41    168,343    85,771    50.95    96,894    29,507    30.45 

Repurchase Transactions

   35,871    8,968    25.00    18,170    9,713    53.46    16,479    1,553    9.42 

Loans and Other Financing

                  

Loans

   491,386    148,539    30.23    587,663    159,351    27.12    631,995    156,764    24.80 

Financial Leases

   2,324    352    15.15    3,857    761    19.73    5,059    1,227    24.25 

Other Loans and Other Financing

   2,265    313    13.82    3,317    670    20.20    1,244    589    47.35 

Total Loans and Other Financing

   495,975    149,204    30.08    594,837    160,782    27.03    638,298    158,580    24.84 

Other Interest-Earning Assets

   44,279    13,455    30.39    54,603    13,517    24.76    43,578    7,087    16.26 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

   733,140    235,072    32.06    835,953    269,783    32.27    795,249    196,727    24.74 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Interest-Bearing Liabilities

                  

Deposits

                  

Savings Accounts

   252,515    14,559    5.77    264,364    11,214    4.24    279,693    6,932    2.48 

Time Deposits

   243,255    64,910    26.68    234,214    91,922    39.25    228,217    60,042    26.31 

Total Interest-Bearing Deposits

   495,770    79,469    16.03    498,578    103,136    20.69    507,910    66,974    13.19 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   19,815    2,505    12.64    38,319    5,054    13.19    42,944    5,498    12.80 

Debt Securities and Subordinated Debt Securities

   43,921    7,653    17.42    88,146    19,866    22.54    70,300    17,856    25.40 

Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities

   1,916    293    15.29    13,315    952    7.15    3,393    406    11.97 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities

   561,422    89,920    16.02    638,358    129,008    20.21    624,547    90,734    14.53 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Spread and Net Yield

                  

Interest Rate Spread

       16.05        12.06        10.21 

Cost of Funds Supporting Interest-Earning Assets

       12.27        15.43        11.41 

Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets

       19.80        16.84        13.33 

(*)

Rates include the main regions of Latin America.CER/UVA adjustment.

The increase in the use of investment funds by individual investors has been facilitated by tools that streamline investment decision-making and investment generally. The Galicia Administradora de Fondos website (fondosfima.com.ar) provides investors with comprehensive information regarding its funds, as well as an online investment simulator and an investor education section.



Competition

Due to our financial holding structure, competition is experienced at the level of our operating subsidiaries. We face strong competition in most of the areas in which our subsidiaries are active. For a breakdown of our total revenues, for each of the past two fiscal years, for the activities discussed below (i.e., banking, regional credit cards and insurance), see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”-A. “Operating Results”.

Banking

Banco Galicia faces significant competition in all of its principal areas of operation from foreign banks operating in Argentina (mainly large retail banks which are subsidiaries or branches of banks with global operations), Argentine national and provincial government-owned banks, private-sector domestic banks and cooperative banks, as well as non-bank financial institutions.

Regarding private-sector customers, Banco Galicia’s main competitors are large foreign banks and certain domestically owned private-sector banks. Banco Galicia also faces competition from government-owned banks.

Banco Galicia’s estimated market share of private-sector deposits in the Argentine financial system was 11.08%

ii) Changes in Net Interest Income-Volume and Rate Analysis

The following table allocates, changes in our consolidated interest income and interest expenses between changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and changes in their respective average yield/rate for (i) the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 compared with the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 and (ii) the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, compared with the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. Differences related to both rate and volume are allocated proportionally to the rate variance and the volume variance, respectively.

   Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020 /
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2019
Increase  (Decrease) due to changes in
  Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2019 /
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018
Increase  (Decrease) due to changes in
 
   Volume  Rate  Net Change  Volume  Rate  Net Change 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Interest Earning Assets

       

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

       

Government Securities

   (5,267  (17,186  (22,453  30,540   25,635   56,175 

Others

   (116  243   127   (65  154   89 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   (5,383  (16,943  (22,326  30,475   25,789   56,264 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Repurchase Transactions

   (1,642  897   (745  175   7,985   8,160 

Loans and Other Financing

       

Loans

   (36,117  25,305   (10,812  (7,877  10,464   2,587 

Financial Leases

   (258  (151  (409  (261  (205  (466

Other Loans and Other Financing

   (179  (178  (357  123   (42  81 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Loans and Other Financing

   (36,554  24,976   (11,578  (8,015  10,217   2,202 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Other Interest-Earning Assets

   305   (367  (62  2,099   4,331   6,430 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

   (43,274  8,563   (34,711  24,734   48,322   73,056 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Interest Bearing Liabilities

       

Deposits

       

Savings Account

   (477  3,822   3,345   (357  4,639   4,282 

Time Deposits

   3,704   (30,716  (27,012  1,617   30,263   31,880 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Interest-Bearing Deposits

   3,227   (26,894  (23,667  1,260   34,902   36,162 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   (2,347  (202  (2,549  (617  173   (444

Debt Securities and Subordinated Debt Securities

   (8,410  (3,803  (12,213  3,614   (1,604  2,010 

Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities

   1,995   (2,654  (659  633   (87  546 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

   (5,535  (33,553  (39,088  4,890   33,384   38,274 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The decrease of Ps.34,711 million in interest income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to the previous year, is primarily attributable to a Ps.43,274 million decrease in the volume of interest-earning assets, partially offset by an increase of Ps.8,563 million in interest income due to an increase in interest rates.

In particular, Ps.22,326 million of the decrease in interest income was due to a decrease in interest income from debt securities measured at fair value through profit or loss. This decrease primarily resulted from a decrease in interest rates earned from Government securities due to a 1,087 basis point (“bps”) decrease in the average interest rate for debts securities, from 50.98% in 2019 to 40.11% in 2020. The average volume of Government securities held by us amounted to Ps.155,630 million for fiscal year 2020, as compared to Ps.166,505 million for the previous fiscal year.

The Ps.11,578 million decrease in interest from loans and other financing was due to a decrease in volume equal to Ps.36,554 million, mainly as a consequence of a decrease in the average volume of loans granted to the private sector. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in interest rates (accounting for Ps.24,976 million), mainly as a result of an increase in the average rate earned by us on loans and other financing provided.

In terms of interest expenses, the Ps.39,088 million decrease for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, is primarily a result of an increase in the interest rate payable on time deposits of Ps.27,012 million (which increased from 39.25% in 2019 to 26.68% in 2020).

iii) Debt and Equity Securities

The following table shows our holdings of debt and equity securities at the balance sheet dates stated below. Our holdings of Government securities represent mainly holdings of Banco Galicia.

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Debt Securities at FV through profit or loss

   155,420    89,431 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Argentine Government Securities

   24,283    9,122 

Government Bonds

   6,487    472 

Provincial Bonds

   740    —   

City of Buenos Aires Bonds

   91    164 

Treasury Bills

   16,965    8,486 

Argentine Central Bank´s Bill

   128,325    79,153 

Leliq (liquidity Bills)

   128,325    79,153 

Corporate Securities

   2,812    1,156 

Debt Securities

   2,742    1,028 

Debt Securities of Financial Trust

   70    128 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Debt Securities

   23,070    25,894 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Measured at FV through OCI

   4,185    21,669 

Argentine Government Securities

   4,011    21,669 

Government Bonds

   3,934    21,573 

Treasury Bills

   77    —   

City of Buenos Aires Bonds

   —      96 

Argentine Central Bank´s Bill

   174    —   

Leliq (liquidity Bills)

   174    —   

Measured at Amortized Cost

   18,885    4,225 

Argentine Government Securities

   17,887    (37

Government Bonds

   17,931    2 

Treasury Bills

   —      —   

Allowance

   (44   (39

Corporate Securities

   994    1,083 

Debt Securities

   940    582 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

   36    692 

Others

   18    19 

Allowance

   —      (210

International Government Securities

   4    3,179 

Treasury Bills

   4    3,179 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   5,712    6,201 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Domestic

   5,655    6,143 

International

   57    58 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Debt and Equity Securities

   184,202    121,526 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2020, the increase in our holdings of debt and equity securities was mainly a result of an increase in the volume of Government bonds issued by the BCRA that we held. Our government securities issued by the BCRA increased Ps.49,172 million from Ps.79,153 million as of December 31, 2019 to Ps.128,325 million as of December 31, 2020.

The amount of Argentine government securities recorded at fair value as of December 31, 2020 in an amount of Ps.24,283 million corresponded to securities issued by the National Treasury Bills (for Ps.16,965 million), the Government (for Ps.6,487 million), provincial governments (for Ps.740 million) and the City of Buenos Aires (for Ps.91 million).

As of December 31, 2020, our holding of government securities denominated in Dollars was composed of Government bonds recorded at their fair value (for Ps.4,183 million), Government bonds recorded at their amortized cost (for Ps.1 million) and U.S. Treasury Bonds recorded at their amortized cost (for Ps.4 million).

As of December 31, 2019, the amount of Argentine government securities, recorded at fair value amounted to Ps.9,122 million and corresponded to our holdings of debt securities mainly issued by the National Treasury Bills (for Ps.8,486 million), Government bonds (for Ps.472 million) and the City of Buenos Aires (for Ps.164 million).

As of December 31, 2019, the holding of public securities denominated in Dollars was composed mainly of Government bonds recorded at fair value (for Ps.7,090 million), of National Treasury (for Ps.13 million), of Government bonds recorded at their amortized cost (for Ps.2 million) and U.S. Treasury Bonds recorded at their amortized cost (for Ps.4 million) .

All local Government securities, except for the Leliq, which are issued by the BCRA, were issued by the Government, provincial governments or the City of Buenos Aires.

Remaining Maturity and Weighted-Average Yield

The following table analyzes the remaining maturity and weighted-average yield of our holdings of debt securities recorded at amortized cost as of December 31, 2020. Our debt securities portfolio yields do not contain any tax equivalency adjustments.

   Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020 
       Maturing within 1
year
  Maturing after 1
year but within 5
years
  Maturing after 5
years but within
10 years
  Maturing after
10 years
 
   Total Book
Value
   Book
Value
   Yield
(1)
  Book
Value
   Yield  Book
Value
   Yield
(1)
  Book
Value
   Yield
(1)
 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Other Debt Securities

               

Measured at Amortized Cost

               

Argentine Government Securities

   17,931    —      —    17,912    28.40  1    16.30  18    10.50

Corporate Securities

   976    715    47.30  261    49.80  —      —    —      —  

Debt Securities

   940    707    47.40  233    50.30  —      —    —      —  

Debt Securities of Financial Trust

   36    8    40.00  28    45.00  —      —    —      —  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

Total Other Debt Securities Measured at Amortized Cost

   18,907    715     18,173     1     18   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

(1)

Effective yield based on December 31, 2018, as compared to 10.20% as of December 31, 2017 and 9.86% as of December 31, 2016.

With respect to loans extended to the private sector, Banco Galicia’s Argentine2020 quoted market share was 10.51% as of December 31, 2018, as compared to 9.65% and 9.63% as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, according to the information published by the Argentine Central Bank.values.

iv) Loan and Other Financing Portfolio

Our total loans and other financing reflect Banco Galicia’s and Tarjetas Regionales’ loan and other financing portfolios including past due principal amounts. Personal loans and credit-card loans are typically loans to individuals granted by Banco Galicia or Naranja. Most of the Naranja’s loans are included under “credit card loans”. Also, certain amounts related to advances, promissory notes, mortgage loans and pledge loans are extended to individuals. However, advances and promissory notes mostly represent loans to companies. The following table analyzes our consolidated loan and other financing activities portfolio.

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Principal and Interest

    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-Financial Public Sector

   —      9 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

   13    30 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial Institutions

   14,701    14,697 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad (1)

    

Loans

   537,207    492,932 

Advances

   29,219    21,636 

Overdrafts

   143,769    102,215 

Mortgage Loans

   16,486    20,493 

Pledge Loans

   11,587    4,368 

Personal Loans

   36,504    37,637 

Credit Card Loans

   241,793    203,476 

Placements in Banks Abroad

   1,662    10,721 

Pre-financing and financing of exports

   29,487    73,430 

Other Loans

   5,283    (40

Accrued Interest, Adjustment and Quotation Differences Receivable

   23,650    20,755 

Documented Interest

   (2,233   (1,759

Financial Leases

   1,855    3,030 

Other Financing

   9,892    12,630 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

   548,954    508,592 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Gross Loans and Other Financing

   563,668    523,328 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Allowance

    

Loans Allowance

   (36,707   (34,891

Financial Leases Allowance

   (35   (60

Other Financing Allowance

   (492   (233

Less: Allowances

   (37,234   (35,184
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   526,434    488,144 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

According to the information published by the Argentine Central Bank, as of December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia was the largest private-sector bank as measured by its assets and loan portfolio and second as measured by its net worth and deposits.

Banco Galicia believes that it has a strong competitive position in retail banking, both with respect to individuals and SMEs. Specifically, Banco Galicia believes it is one of the primary providers of financial services to individuals, the primary private-sector institution serving SMEs, and has traditionally maintained a leading position in the agriculture and livestock sector.

Argentine Banking System

As of December 31, 2018, the Argentine financial system consisted of 78 financial institutions, of which 63 were banks and 15 were financial non-bank institutions (including finance companies, credit unions and savings and loans associations). Of the 63 banks, 13 were Argentine national and provincial government-owned or related banks. Of the 50 private-sector banks, 33 were private-sector domestically owned banks and 17 were foreign-owned banks (i.e., local branches or subsidiaries of foreign banks).

As of December 31, 2018, the top 10 banks, in terms of total deposits (excluding Argentine national and provincial government-owned banks), were: Banco Santander Río, Banco Galicia, BBVA Banco Francés, Banco Macro, HSBC, Credicoop Bank and ICBC. Banco Galicia, Banco Macro and Credicoop are domestically owned banks and the others are foreign-owned banks. According to information published by the Argentine Central Bank as of December 31, 2018, private-sector banks accounted for 55.7% of total deposits and 61.3% of total net loans in the Argentine financial system. As of the same date, financial institutions (other than banks) accounted for approximately 0.3% of deposits and 3.4% of net loans in the Argentine financial system.

As of December 31, 2018, the largest Argentine national and provincial government-owned or related banks, in terms of total deposits, were Banco Nación, Banco de la Provincia de Buenos Aires and Banco Ciudad de Buenos Aires. Under the provisions of the Financial Institutions’ Law, public-sector banks have comparable rights and obligations to private banks, except that public-sector banks are usually chosen as depositaries for public-sector revenues and promote regional development and certain public-sector banks have preferential tax treatment. The


bylaws of some public-sector banks provide that the governments that own them (both national and provincial governments) must guarantee their commitments. According to information published by the Argentine Central Bank, as of December 31, 2018, government-owned banks and banks in which the national, provincial and municipal governments had an ownership interest accounted for 44.0% of deposits and 35.3%Categories of loans in the Argentine financial system.include:

Consolidation has been a dominant theme in the Argentine banking sector since the 1990s, with the total number of financial institutions declining from 214 in 1991 to 78 as of December 31, 2018, with the ten largest banks holding 78.7% of the system’s deposits from the private sector and 74.6% of the system’s loans to the private sector as of December 31, 2018.

Foreign banks continue to have a significant presence in Argentina, despite the fact that the number of these financial institutions decreased from 39 at the end of 2001 to 17 as of December 2018, and the fact that their share of total deposits has decreased since the 2001-2002 financial crisis while the share of domestic private-sector banks has increased.

The Argentine banking sector focuses on transactional business, and lacks a robust supply of medium and long-term lending. Local financial system deposits and loans are equivalent to 21.7% and 14.6% of the GDP respectively, well below those same ratios for other countries in the region.

Regional Credit Cards

In the consumer loan market, the Regional Credit Card Companies compete with Argentine banks and other financial institutions that target similar economic segments. The main players in this segment include Banco Supervielle, Banco Columbia, Banco Comafi, Banco Credicoop, Banco Macro, Banco MasVentas, Banco Municipal de Rosario, Banco Nación (Nativa card), Banco de Córdoba (Cordobesa card), Cabal card, Tarjeta Shopping card and CFA (Efectivo Si). Historically, certain international banks with a presence in Argentina have attempted to target consumers in these economic segments and have been, to date and for the most part, unsuccessful.

In order to compete effectively at a national and regional level, the Regional Credit Card Companies target low- to middle-income clients by offering personalized services in each region, focusing their commercial efforts mainly on such segments. While other Argentine credit card issuers and consumer loan providers focus on earning interest on outstanding personal loans and credit card balances, the Regional Credit Card Companies also focus on and have access to additional sources of revenues including merchant fees and commissions, which allow them to offer competitive pricing and financing terms. Furthermore, unlike other credit card issuers in Argentina, approximately 50% of the Regional Credit Card Companies’ clients pay their credit card bill through their branch network. The broad geographical reach of their distribution network, which is the second largest in Argentina, has allowed the Regional Credit Card Companies to establish a local presence in all the provinces of Argentina.

The Regional Credit Card Companies believe that their diversified and consistent funding sources, significant network of branches, robust information technology infrastructure, relationships with over 270,000 merchants and the brand recognition they enjoy provide them with a competitive edge to consolidate and expand their market share in their target market segment, making it difficult for new players to effectively compete in this market segment on a national scale.

Insurance

Sudamericana’s subsidiaries face significant competition since, as of December 2018, the Argentine insurance industry was comprised of approximately 176 insurance companies, 13 of which were dedicated exclusively to annuities. Subsidiaries of foreign insurance companies and the world’s largest insurance companies with global operations are among these companies.

During 2018, the insurance industry continued growing. Production amounted to Ps.391.7 billion, 30% higher than the level recorded for the prior year. Out of the total insurance production in 2018, 83% related to property insurance, 15% related to life and personal insurance, and 2% related to retirement insurance.


Within the 83% corresponding to property insurance, the automotive insurance segment continues to be the most significant segment, representing 44%, followed by the workers’ compensation segment, representing 30%. Within the life insurance segment, the group life insurance segment was the most significant, representing 57%, followed by individual life insurance, representing 22%, and personal accident insurance, representing 15%.

As of December 31, 2018, based on internal studies undertaken by Galicia Seguros, it is estimated that Galicia Seguros ranked third in terms of net premiums for personal accident insurance underwritten and first in terms of net premiums for home and theft insurance underwritten.

Sales and Marketing

Service Channels

Grupo Galicia’s subsidiaries interact with their customers through a variety of marketing channels, which include digital tools and physical branches, tailored to meet specific customer needs.

 

As of December 31, 2018

Branches (number)

Bank Branches

325

Regional Credit Card Cos. Branches

238

Business Centers and In-House Facilities

214

Electronic banking terminals (number)

ATMs

1,039

Self-Service Terminals

990

Electronic banking transactions (thousands per month)

ATMs + Self-Service Terminals

42,558

Phone-Banking

3,213

e-banking

55,219

Digital Channels

In 2018, Grupo Galicia continued to improve and provide innovative services through its digital channels in response to customer demands and as a means of providing information to customers and a channel for customer service, including through improved service response time and by offering customers the ability to submit customer service requests 24/7.

In 2018, Banco Galicia’s digital channels were used by more than 1.3 million customers of all ages and demographic backgrounds. As such, Banco Galicia collects usage data and statistics to identify what actions are most frequently used by customers to prioritize such actions on its platforms. In May 2018, Banco Galicia launched Instagram for Galicia ÉMINENT and a Twitter account to provide daily updates and important information for the SMEs segment.

Tarjeta Naranja provides information to customers regarding transactions, purchases made, due dates, payments made, withdrawals, transfer notices, balance queries and mobile transfers. In 2018, Tarjeta Naranja incorporated technological assistance, which provides remote advice on the use of technological devices.

In 2018, Galicia Seguros achieved 100% digital insurance self-management by developing digital policies, which include audiovisual information and explanations regarding insurance coverage and packages. Moreover, customers can easily access their policy information digitally through their email.

Physical Channels

Banco Galicia and Tarjeta Naranja have an extensive network of branches throughout Argentina, providing for in -person contact with customers. In addition, Galicia Seguros uses Banco Galicia’s infrastructure to provide personalized customer service. Banco Galicia’s dedicated customer service officers are qualified to help companies, retailers, investors, payroll employees and the general public and to advise customers and prospective customers on the best credit and financing options to meet their individuals needs.

Customers can handle all of their transactions through ATMs at these branches. Branches are located throughout Argentina based on the number of customers served in each province.


In 2018, the Bank partnered with Starbucks to open its first branch inside a Starbucks in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. This location offers different services, including internet access, extended hours, co-working spaces and meeting rooms for both customers and non-customers. In addition, the Bank offers personalized service through host officers who provide advice on ATMs, encourage customer adoption of digital channels and resolve queries or claims.

Products and Services

Grupo Galicia, through its subsidiaries, offers its customers in Argentina tailored and unique service, including credit cards, personal, mortgage and corporate loans, and a wide range of insurance and investment products focused on various segments.

Personal Loans

Interest and inflation rates, together with consumption, remained stable for the three months ended March 31, 2018, contributing to a high volumes of loans averaging Ps.1,700 million per month. Following the onset of the exchange rate crisis and devaluation of the Peso in May 2018, loans decreased to Ps.1,000 million per month. As a result, the amount of UVA-denominated loans increased due to their lower interest rates and delayed repayment structure. As the exchange rate crisis continued in 2018, the Bank implemented several loan default prevention measures to maintain a healthy loan portfolio.

In addition, Tarjeta Naranja offers simple, safe and convenient online and digital customer service for its loan customers through Naranja Online and the Naranja APP.

Mortgage Loans

In 2018, the volume of UVA-denominated mortage loans increased as a result of the exchange rate crisis; however, the amount of UVA-denominated loans decreased. In the beginning of 2018, the average loan made by the Bank per month was Ps.750 million. Following the onset of the exchange rate crisis, the average loan made by the Bank per month was Ps.200 million. During 2018, Banco Galicia continued to be a leader among private banks for UVA-denominated mortgage loans. Banco Galicia also began making loans for construction and home expansion and renovations, as well as home purchases in order to provide its customers with broader financing offerings.

Individual and Corporate Insurance

In 2018, Galicia Seguros continued to focus on improving customer experiences. Responding to demands for greater self-service options, Galicia Seguros’ online quotation system now provides customers with the ability to compare the automobile insurance policies provided by a variety of insurance companies. Customers can also purchase their home, mobile phone, personal, bicycle and laptop insurance online by immediately obtaining quotes online and consulting digital customer service. Customers can chose among different service methods according to their personal preferences.

Also, given the importance of small- and medium-sized companies in overall economic development in Argentina, the Bank launched SME Comprehensive Insurance in July 2018 following an analysis of insurance market trends and customer needs. The main objective of this product is to provide comprehensive protection to small- and medium-sized companies by safeguarding business assets and providing customized insurance options at affordable rates. This product is also offered to independent professionals, as well as business owners. Amounts insured and insured businesses increased during 2018 following the launch of this product.

Tarjeta Naranja independently markets and offers the following insurance policies: Home, Guaranteed Consumption, Unemployment, Protected Purchase, Personal Accidents, Protected Woman, Health, Life, ATM Theft, Protected Bag, Automobile, Motorcycle, Motorcycle Assistance, Mobile Phone, Travel, Multi-Assistance, Used Appliances, Mobile Technology and Comprehensive Pet insurance.


Credit Cards

Banco Galicia

Banco Galicia meets its customers’ needs by offering range of services and benefits, through its Galicia credit and debit cards.The Bank markets Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards, covering all segments. The product range includes International, Gold, Platinum and Black/Signature cards with different spending and financing options and promotions for all customers.

Tarjeta Naranja

As of June 2018, Naranja Clásica merged with Naranja Oro and became NARANJA, the new base product that offers “Plan Zeta”, which is an option for customers to finance their debt payments in three or six monthly installments. In addition, Tarjeta Naranja revised the form of its account statements to offer a more streamlined format. In addition, Tarjeta Naranja offers the following products:

Naranja Teen: a credit card only offered to individuals between the ages of 13 to 17. It operates as an additional credit card with a monthly purchase limit set by the cardholder.

Naranja Instantly: since 2017, Tarjeta Naranja has increased the use of Ajnaran, an instant credit card issued on the spot so that the cardholder can immediately make purchases.

Naranja Visa, MasterCard y American Express: Tarjeta Naranja’s customers can enjoy all Visa, Mastercard and American Express promotions and plans, with access to more than 29 million participating merchants, emergency card replacement in the event of loss or theft and other benefits.

Investments

In 2018, Banco Galicia continued to work on improving its investment value proposal and its customer experience by expanding its product range, simplifying product operations and providing more proactive advice to customers.

Banco Galicia provides a wide range of products according to each customer’s needs and investor profile. Before investing in securities or mutual funds, it conducts a survey of all customers so that they are able to identify their profile to select the investment products that best fit their investment objectives. Banco Galicia offers advice through its Investments Center or in person at its branch offices. Information on each product is also available on the Bank’s website.

Banco Galicia also provides the option of investing in either Peso- or Dollar-denominated time deposits, with periodic interest payments and UVA-adjustments, Banco Galicia also offers lower interest rates to certain of its customers based on their income segment.

In 2018, Banco Galicia began offering a UVA 90-day time deposit product through its Online Banking platform, and held 8.4 % of the market share for time deposits less than Ps.1 million as of December 31, 2018, representing an increase of 65%.

Regarding debt and equity investments, customers can purchase notes and stocks listed on the CNV online. Additionally, the Bank allows for the online tender of Lebac, Letes or Lecap according to the calls made by the Argentine Central Bank or the Ministry of Finance. Most of the Bank’s products, including the purchase of foreign currency, can be done through the Online Banking platform or the Galicia mobile application. With respect to capital markets products, a new investment module that will be offered on the Online Banking platform is being developed and will focus on providing customers with self-service options and an improved customer experience. In September 2018, the Bank launched its “minimum viable product” to facilitate the online purchase and sale of bonds and stocks. This product provides customers with bond and stock quotes, the ability to trade in Pesos or Dollars and a summary of a customer’s total position. Customers also have the option to purchase and sell the bonds and stocks of foreign issuers through the Online Banking platform.


In 2018, the Bank launched the “Wealth Management Project”, with the goal of positioning the Bank as an investment bank by 2022.

Finally, the Bank simplified foreign exchange trading processes in 2018 by extending the opening and closing hours of branches. In addition, the Bank offered a preferential Dollar exchange rate through online channels to high-income segment (Private Banking, Business and SMEs, Professionals GOLD and Galicia EMINET) customers.

Foreign Trade

For the year ended December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia’s foreign trade volume transactions were equal to US$56.1 million, representing a market share of 12.1% in Argentina. Of this amount, US$11.8 million was attributable to the export and import of goods, with a market share of 12.6% in Argentina. For the year ended December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia ranked second in Argentina in terms of volume for foreign trade transactions.

Through the Bank’s Office Banking e-platform, customers can make payments and manage their collections abroad. As part of the Bank’s digital initiative, the Bank began to offer import letters of credits online.

In addition, the GaliciaComex Community provides product and service options targeted to export and import operations, including providing customers with relevant sector and market news. The GaliciaComex Community also provides tailored financing options, including import leasing, import and export financing, surety and stand by letters of credit.

Galicia Seguros offers surety bonds for a variety of needs, including to back stop temporary import or export receivables.

Financing Granted to Companies

Banco Galicia offers short-, mid- and long-term financing to companies, transactional services, and foreign trade operations. In 2018, the Bank supported more than 25,500 companies covering a wide spectrum of economic activities, such as industrial, agriculture, services and marketing, thereby supporting overall economic growth in Argentina by providing companies with access to liquidity. In 2018, the Bank financed 210 operations for a total of Ps.149 million.

Products and services include the following:

“Línea Productiva Bice Belgrano”: This is a line of products, with a special subsidy for some provinces. In 2018, the Bank granted 301 loans in an amount equal to Ps.1,000 million.

Préstamo Eslabón: This is a line of loans to finance production chains, with maturities from 12 to 36 months and interest rates from 0% to 17%.

Flex loans to finance working capital and capital expenditures, with maturities from 12 to 18 months and a three-month grace period on repayment. In 2018, the Bank granted flex loans in an amount equal to Ps.1,220 million in 3,614 operations.

Loans at a subsidized interest rate of 8%, in conjunction with the Ministry of Production of Santa Fe, on loans related to capital investment and projects in Santa Fe.


Credit programs between the IADB and provinces, with credit lines to finance the development of SMEs’ long-term investment projects across all sectors.

Financing of the National Institute of Yerba Mate (Instituto Nacional de la Yerba Mate - INYM) in an amount equal to Ps.100 million.

Agreement with the National Fund for Production Development to provide subsidies on overdraft lines of credit in an amount equal to Ps.2,000 million.

Agreements and Payroll

Agreements and Payroll are comprised of product offerings to businesses to manage payroll transactions and accounting services for their employees.

In 2018, the Bank increased the number of payroll customers by 2.05% and the number of salaries by 37.1% as compared to 2017. Similar to other sectors, the Bank continued to focus on improving the customer service experience and service efficiency.

The Bank strengthened its partnerships with several businesses, including the Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires, the Argentine Dental Association and the Argentine Neurosurgery Association. Furthermore, the Bank continued to support the educational community and provide benefits to families in more than 121 schools that use Banco Galicia for their transactions.

Digital Transformation

Banco Galicia and Tarjeta Naranja both started a digital transformation program with the goal of improving organization and competing with rapid changes in the banking industry. These processes are independently managed in accordance with the culture and business of each company. In 2018, Banco Galicia invested approximately Ps.63 million in these programs and worked on the initial phase of implementation for its 2017-2020 strategy of the digital transformation program, which includes six focal points (digital marketing , travel optimization, data and analytics, system infrastructure, agile methodology and organization and culture and talent).

The Center of Excellence was created as a strategic area and consolidated in 2018 as a single and integrated window for improving management, with the goal of defining methodologies, developing capabilities and cultural transformation. In addition, the Bank launched a digital academy to build new digital strategies, and the Galicia Leader (Líder Galicia) model was updated to define new transformation skills.

Promotions and Benefits

Banco Galicia

Banco Galicia’s Quiero! Program continues to increase its rewards catalog with more than 1,500 options in different categories and 362 brands that allow customers to benefit from discounts and redemptions. Under this program, 513,484 customers obtained benefits starting at 140 Quiero! points, thus increasing the accessibility of this program to customers of all spending backgrounds.

In 2018, the new Quiero! Platform was launched with the objective of helping customers discover the most relevant offers by applying algorithms to offer each customer the most relevant rewards based on their profile.

Tarjeta Naranja

Tarjeta Naranja Financing of Single Purchases: Financing in three or six monthly installments in Pesos for single purchases made with any Tarjeta Naranja cards.


Advance Funds Transfer: Any person can send funds to the primary or additional cardholders who can then use such funds from anywhere in Argentine (such amounts appear as a credit to the recipient’s card).

HBO GO: On-demand content for Tarjeta Naranja customers who can subscribe and enjoy more than 3,000 movies and TV series.

Alliance with Samsung: Alliance with Samsung to promote the sale of cell phones, tablets and accessories to different customer segments and at branches in Córdoba and Buenos Aires.

Convivimos and Cima Magazines: Convivimos is a magazine published by Tarjeta Naranja and is Argentina’s leading monthly subscription magazine. In 2018, Tarjeta Naranja launched Convivimos Digital, which is free to print subscribers. In addition, as a result of the Tarjeta Naranja-Nevada merger, Cima was added as a print publication available in the northwest and northeast provinces of Argentina and Patagonia.

Naranja Store: In 2018, the Naranja Store had a “flash sale”, a promotion that resulted in the redemption of points and increased customer traffic.

Smartes: During 2018, with 2,307 participating stores, Tarjeta Naranja offered discounts of up to 30% on Argentina’s best brands on special dates. Highlights included promotions with Aerolíneas Argentinas and GOL of up to 20% off and payment plans of six and 12 monthly installments with 0% interest .

Selected Statistical Information

You should read this information in conjunction with the other information provided in this annual report, including our audited consolidated financial statements and Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”. We prepared this information from our financial records in conformity with IFRS.

Average Balance Sheet and Income from Interest-Earning Assets and Expenses from Interest-Bearing Liabilities

The average balances of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, including the related interest that is receivable and payable, are calculated on a monthly basis for Banco Galicia and Tarjetas Regionales on a


consolidated basis. The average balances of interest-earning assets and interest bearing liabilities are calculated on a quarterly basis for Grupo Financiero Galicia and its other non-banking subsidiaries.

Average balances have been separated between those denominated in Pesos and those denominated in Dollars. The average yield/rate is the amount of interest earned or paid during the period divided by the related average balance.

The following table shows our consolidated average balances, accrued interest and average yield for interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

 

 

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2017

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Accrued Interest

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Accrued Interest

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

52,704

 

 

 

15,161

 

 

 

28.77

 

 

 

41,240

 

 

 

6,078

 

 

 

14.74

 

Loans

 

 

301,653

 

 

 

74,271

 

 

 

24.62

 

 

 

264,122

 

 

 

50,831

 

 

 

19.25

 

Other

 

 

16,378

 

 

 

3,397

 

 

 

20.74

 

 

 

16,872

 

 

 

3,319

 

 

 

19.67

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

370,735

 

 

 

92,829

 

 

 

25.04

 

 

 

322,234

 

 

 

60,228

 

 

 

18.69

 

Liabilities and Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

121,954

 

 

 

225

 

 

 

0.18

 

 

 

99,015

 

 

 

71

 

 

 

0.07

 

Time Deposits

 

 

128,781

 

 

 

27,831

 

 

 

21.61

 

 

 

101,074

 

 

 

16,067

 

 

 

15.90

 

Total Interest-Bearing Deposits

 

 

250,735

 

 

 

28,056

 

 

 

11.19

 

 

 

200,089

 

 

 

16,138

 

 

 

8.07

 

Debt Securities

 

 

34,830

 

 

 

8,416

 

 

 

24.16

 

 

 

27,984

 

 

 

5,401

 

 

 

19.30

 

Other

 

 

23,159

 

 

 

4,153

 

 

 

17.93

 

 

 

11,064

 

 

 

1,858

 

 

 

16.79

 

Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities

 

 

308,724

 

 

 

40,625

 

 

 

13.16

 

 

 

239,137

 

 

 

23,397

 

 

 

9.78

 

Spread and Net Yield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Spread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.91

 

Cost of Funds Supporting Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.96

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.26

 

Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.08

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.43

 

(*)

Rates include the CER/UVA adjustment.

(1)

Non-accruing loans have been included in average loans.

The table below reflects such information for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.


 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2016

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

Foreign Currency

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

Average

 

 

Accrued

 

 

Yield/

 

 

Average

 

 

Accrued

 

 

Yield/

 

 

Average

 

 

Accrued

 

 

Yield/

 

 

 

Balance

 

 

Interest

 

 

Rate

 

 

Balance

 

 

Interest

 

 

Rate

 

 

Balance

 

 

Interest

 

 

Rate

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except rates)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

16,110

 

 

 

4,646

 

 

 

28.84

 

 

 

5,410

 

 

 

160

 

 

 

2.96

 

 

 

21,520

 

 

 

4,806

 

 

 

22.33

 

Loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private Sector

 

 

99,817

 

 

 

28,979

 

 

 

29.03

 

 

 

11,282

 

 

 

395

 

 

 

3.50

 

 

 

111,099

 

 

 

29,374

 

 

 

26.44

 

Public Sector

 

 

1

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

1

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

Total Loans (1)

 

 

99,818

 

 

 

28,979

 

 

 

29.03

 

 

 

11,282

 

 

 

395

 

 

 

3.50

 

 

 

111,100

 

 

 

29,374

 

 

 

26.44

 

Other

 

 

2,555

 

 

 

827

 

 

 

32.37

 

 

 

111

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

4.50

 

 

 

2,666

 

 

 

832

 

 

 

31.21

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

118,483

 

 

 

34,452

 

 

 

29.08

 

 

 

16,803

 

 

 

560

 

 

 

3.33

 

 

 

135,286

 

 

 

35,012

 

 

 

25.88

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

16,127

 

 

 

43

 

 

 

0.27

 

 

 

11,360

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

27,487

 

 

 

43

 

 

 

0.16

 

Time Deposits

 

 

47,953

 

 

 

13,057

 

 

 

27.23

 

 

 

6,032

 

 

 

76

 

 

 

1.26

 

 

 

53,985

 

 

 

13,133

 

 

 

24.33

 

Total Interest-Bearing Deposits

 

 

64,080

 

 

 

13,100

 

 

 

20.44

 

 

 

17,392

 

 

 

76

 

 

 

0.44

 

 

 

81,472

 

 

 

13,176

 

 

 

16.17

 

Debt Securities

 

 

6,125

 

 

 

1,875

 

 

 

30.61

 

 

 

9,425

 

 

 

1,023

 

 

 

10.85

 

 

 

15,550

 

 

 

2,898

 

 

 

18.64

 

Other

 

 

2,721

 

 

 

940

 

 

 

34.55

 

 

 

1,576

 

 

 

63

 

 

 

4.00

 

 

 

4,297

 

 

 

1,003

 

 

 

23.34

 

Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities

 

 

72,926

 

 

 

15,915

 

 

 

21.82

 

 

 

28,393

 

 

 

1,162

 

 

 

4.09

 

 

 

101,319

 

 

 

17,077

 

 

 

16.85

 

Spread and Net Yield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Spread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.26

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(0.76

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.03

 

Cost of Funds Supporting Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.92

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.62

 

Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15.65

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3.58

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.26

 

(1)

Non-accruing loans have been included in average loans.

Changes in Net Interest Income-Volume and Rate Analysis

The following table allocates, by currency of the underlying asset or liability, changes in our consolidated interest income and interest expenses between changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and changes in their respective average yield/rate for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 compared with the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. Differences related to both rate and volume are allocated proportionally to the rate variance and the volume variance, respectively.



 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,  2018 / Fiscal Year Ended December 31,  2017

 

 

 

Increase (Decrease) due to changes in

 

 

 

Volume

 

 

Rate

 

 

Net Change

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Interest Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt Securities

 

 

5,094

 

 

 

3,988

 

 

 

9,082

 

Loans(1)

 

 

2,464

 

 

 

20,976

 

 

 

23,440

 

Other

 

 

5

 

 

 

74

 

 

 

79

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

7,563

 

 

 

25,038

 

 

 

32,601

 

Interest Bearing Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings Account

 

 

(8

)

 

 

162

 

 

 

154

 

Time Deposits

 

 

2,211

 

 

 

9,553

 

 

 

11,764

 

Notes

 

 

1,265

 

 

 

1,750

 

 

 

3,015

 

Other Liabilities

 

 

724

 

 

 

1,571

 

 

 

2,295

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

4,192

 

 

 

13,036

 

 

 

17,228

 

(1)

Non-accruing loans have been included in average loans.

The increase of Ps.32,601 million in interest income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the previous year, is primarily attributable to a Ps.7,563 million increase in the volume of interest-earning assets, together with an increase of Ps.25,038 million in interest income due to an increase in interest rates.

In particular, Ps.23,440 million of the increase was due to an increase in interest income from loans. The average volume of loans amounted to Ps.301,653 million for fiscal year 2018, as compared to Ps.264,122 million for the previous fiscal year. This increase was due to Ps.20,976 million increase in interest income from Loans, which resulted from a increase in interest rates earned from loans due to a 537 basis point (“bps”) increase in the average interest rate for loans, from 19.25% in 2017 to 24.62% in 2018.

The Ps.9,082 million increase in interest from debt securities was due to an increase in volume equal to Ps.5,094 million, and an increase in interest rates (accounting for Ps.3,988 million), mainly as a result of an increase in the average rate earned on government securities.

In terms of interest expenses, the Ps.17,228 million increase for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, is primarily a result of a increase in the interest rate payable on time deposits of Ps.11,764 million (which increased from 15.90% in 2017 to 21.61% in 2018).

The table below reflects such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.


 

Fiscal Year 2017/ Fiscal Year 2016, Increase (Decrease) due to changes in

 

 

Fiscal Year 2016/ Fiscal Year 2015, Increase (Decrease) due to changes in

 

 

Volume

 

 

Rate

 

 

Net Change

 

 

Volume

 

 

Rate

 

 

Net Change

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Interest Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

567

 

 

 

(380

)

 

 

187

 

 

 

1,255

 

 

 

116

 

 

 

1,371

 

Foreign Currency

 

(26

)

 

 

86

 

 

 

60

 

 

 

(313

)

 

 

230

 

 

 

(83

)

Total

 

541

 

 

 

(294

)

 

 

247

 

 

 

942

 

 

 

346

 

 

 

1,288

 

Loans(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private Sector

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

7,980

 

 

 

(1,787

)

 

 

6,193

 

 

 

7,397

 

 

 

1,409

 

 

 

8,806

 

Foreign Currency

 

558

 

 

 

(37

)

 

 

521

 

 

 

261

 

 

 

(21

)

 

 

240

 

Total

 

8,538

 

 

 

(1,824

)

 

 

6,714

 

 

 

7,658

 

 

 

1,388

 

 

 

9,046

 

Public Sector

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(4

)

Foreign Currency

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

Total

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(4

)

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

530

 

 

 

(111

)

 

 

419

 

 

 

82

 

 

 

157

 

 

 

239

 

Foreign Currency

 

8

 

 

-

 

 

 

8

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

Total

 

538

 

 

 

(111

)

 

 

427

 

 

 

82

 

 

 

157

 

 

 

239

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

9,078

 

 

 

(2,277

)

 

 

6,801

 

 

 

8,732

 

 

 

1,680

 

 

 

10,412

 

Foreign Currency

 

540

 

 

 

49

 

 

 

589

 

 

 

(52

)

 

 

209

 

 

 

157

 

Total

 

9,618

 

 

 

(2,228

)

 

 

7,390

 

 

 

8,680

 

 

 

1,889

 

 

 

10,569

 

Interest Bearing Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings Account

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

14

 

 

 

(5

)

 

 

9

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

15

 

Foreign Currency

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

Total

 

14

 

 

 

(5

)

 

 

9

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

15

 

Time Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

1,199

 

 

 

(3,194

)

 

 

(1,995

)

 

 

3,061

 

 

 

1,470

 

 

 

4,531

 

Foreign Currency

 

19

 

 

 

(38

)

 

 

(19

)

 

 

24

 

 

 

(8

)

 

 

16

 

Total

 

1,218

 

 

 

(3,232

)

 

 

(2,014

)

 

 

3,085

 

 

 

1,462

 

 

 

4,547

 

Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

1,723

 

 

 

(275

)

 

 

1,448

 

 

 

549

 

 

 

223

 

 

 

772

 

Foreign Currency

 

(350

)

 

 

(170

)

 

 

(520

)

 

 

341

 

 

 

(61

)

 

 

280

 

Total

 

1,373

 

 

 

(445

)

 

 

928

 

 

 

890

 

 

 

162

 

 

 

1,052

 

Other liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

367

 

 

 

(143

)

 

 

224

 

 

 

423

 

 

 

21

 

 

 

444

 

Foreign Currency

 

61

 

 

 

(5

)

 

 

56

 

 

 

15

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

20

 

Total

 

428

 

 

 

(148

)

 

 

280

 

 

 

438

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

464

 

Total Interest Bearing Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

3,303

 

 

 

(3,617

)

 

 

(314

)

 

 

4,044

 

 

 

1,718

 

 

 

5,762

 

Foreign Currency

 

(270

)

 

 

(213

)

 

 

(483

)

 

 

380

 

 

 

(64

)

 

 

316

 

Total

 

3,033

 

 

 

(3,830

)

 

 

(797

)

 

 

4,424

 

 

 

1,654

 

 

 

6,078

 

(1) Non-accruing loans have been included in average loans.


Debt and Equity Securities

The following table shows our holdings of debt and equity securities at the balance sheet dates stated below. Our holdings of government securities represent mainly holdings of Banco Galicia.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Debt Securities at FV through profit or loss

 

 

75,935

 

 

 

42,748

 

 

 

28,818

 

Argentine Government Securities

 

 

4,700

 

 

 

13,923

 

 

 

9,660

 

Government Bonds

 

 

1,485

 

 

 

1,253

 

 

 

6,410

 

Provincial Bonds

 

 

984

 

 

 

3,690

 

 

 

3,110

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires Bonds

 

 

42

 

 

 

1,132

 

 

 

28

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

2,189

 

 

 

7,848

 

 

 

112

 

Argentine Central Bank’s Bill and Bonds

 

 

70,098

 

 

 

26,368

 

 

 

16,158

 

Lebacs

 

 

 

 

 

26,368

 

 

 

16,158

 

Leliq

 

 

70,098

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private Securities

 

 

1,137

 

 

 

2,457

 

 

 

3,000

 

Debt Securities

 

 

689

 

 

 

1,884

 

 

 

2,445

 

Debt Securities of Financial Trust

 

 

102

 

 

 

361

 

 

 

140

 

Participation Certificates in Financial Trust

 

 

346

 

 

 

212

 

 

 

415

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

14,424

 

 

 

4,183

 

 

 

3,184

 

Measured at FV through OCI

 

 

9,112

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

930

 

Government Securities

 

 

9,112

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

930

 

Measured at Amortized Cost

 

 

5,312

 

 

 

4,041

 

 

 

2,254

 

Argentine Government Securities

 

 

3

 

 

 

35

 

 

 

6

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

2

 

 

 

76

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bill and Bonds

 

 

219

 

 

 

166

 

 

 

50

 

Private Securities

 

 

5,088

 

 

 

3,764

 

 

 

2,198

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

161

 

 

 

112

 

 

 

187

 

Domestic

 

 

133

 

 

 

81

 

 

 

152

 

Internacional

 

 

28

 

 

 

31

 

 

 

35

 

Total Debt and Equity Securities

 

 

90,520

 

 

 

47,043

 

 

 

32,189

 

As of December 31, 2018, the growth in our debt and equity securities was mainly a result of an increase in the volume of Leliqs issued by the Argentine Central Bank and the corresponding purchase of the same. Our government securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank increased Ps.43,730 million from Ps.26,368 million as of December 31, 2017 to Ps.70,098 million as of December 31, 2018.

The amount of Argentine government securities recorded at fair value as of December 31, 2018 for Ps.4,700 million corresponded to securities issued by the provinces of Neuquén (for Ps.266 million), Buenos Aires (for Ps.534 million), City of Buenos Aires (for Ps.42 million), Mendoza (for Ps.9 million) and Río Negro (for Ps.174 million); Argentine bonds (for Ps.1,485 million); and Treasury Bills (for Ps.2,189 million).

At December 31, 2018, the holding of public securities denominated in Dollars was composed mainly of Argentine Treasury Bills (Letes) (for Ps.283 million) and Government Bonds (for Ps.3,118 million), recorded at fair value and U.S. Treasury Bonds due in 2022 (for Ps.2 million), recorded at cost plus yield.

As of December 31, 2017, the amount of Argentine government securities, recorded at fair value for Ps.13,923 million, corresponded to our holdings of debt securities mainly issued by the provinces of Buenos Aires (for Ps.1,812 million), Neuquén (for Ps.1,291 million), Río Negro (for Ps.284 million), Córdoba (for Ps.24 million), Entre Ríos (for Ps.279 million) and City of Buenos Aires (for Ps.42 million); and Government Bonds (for Ps.1,253 million) and treasury bills (for Ps.7,848 million).

At December 31, 2017, the holding of public securities denominated in Dollars was composed mainly of Argentine Bonds (for Ps.433 million), recorded at fair value and Argentine Treasury Bills (Letes) (for Ps.7,836 million) and City of Buenos Aires government securities (for Ps.35 million), recorded at fair value.


All local government securities, except for the Lebac and Leliq, which are issued by the Argentine Central Bank, were issued by the Argentine government.

The table below shows such information for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,

2016

(in millions of Pesos)

Government Securities

Pesos

Recorded at Cost plus Yield

1,772

Debt securities of provinces

1,690

Others

82

Recorded at Fair Value

2,026

Debt securities of provinces

17

Bonar Bonds

112

Bonac Bonds

930

Others

967

Issued by Argentine Central Bank

8,550

Lebac Unquoted

6,974

Lebac Quoted

1,576

Nobac Unquoted

-

Nobac Quoted

-

Lebac Repurchase Agreement Transactions

-

Nobac Repurchase Agreement Transactions

-

Total Government Securities in Pesos

12,348

Foreign Currency

Recorded at Cost plus Yield

150

Government Bonds

150

Recorded at Fair Value

1,203

Government Bonds

1,203

Issued by Argentine Central Bank

-

Lebac Unquoted

-

Total Government Securities in Foreign Currency

1,353

Total Government Securities

13,701

Corporate Securities

Corporate Equity Securities (Quoted) in Pesos

-

Corporate Equity Securities (Quoted) in Foreign Currency

-

Allowances

-

Total Government and Corporate Securities

13,701


Remaining Maturity and Weighted-Average Yield

The following table analyzes the remaining maturity and weighted-average yield of our holdings of debt securities at fair value through profit or loss as of December 31, 2018. Our government securities portfolio yields do not contain any tax equivalency adjustments.

 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maturing witihin 1 year

 

 

Maturing after 1 year but within 5 years

 

 

Maturing after 5 years but within 10 years

 

 

Maturing after 10 years

 

 

 

 

Total Book Value

 

 

Book Value

 

 

Yield (1)

 

 

Book Value

 

 

Yield

 

 

Book Value

 

 

Yield (1)

 

 

Book Value

 

 

Yield (1)

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

 

Debt Securities at FV through Profit or Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Bonds

 

 

711

 

 

 

234

 

 

 

26.43

 

%

 

412

 

 

 

27.95

 

%

 

43

 

 

 

11.08

 

 

 

22

 

 

 

11.08

 

%

Provincial Bonds

 

 

984

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

0.28

 

%

 

504

 

 

 

22.58

 

%

 

448

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

City of Buenos Aires Bonds

 

 

42

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

%

 

5

 

 

 

82.19

 

%

 

37

 

 

 

73.57

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

Treasury Bills

 

 

1,907

 

 

 

1,888

 

 

 

32.77

 

%

 

19

 

 

 

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

  Foreign Currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Bonds

 

 

774

 

 

 

416

 

 

 

1.10

 

%

 

336

 

 

 

13.92

 

%

 

1

 

 

 

11.41

 

%

 

21

 

 

 

12.20

 

%

Treasury Bills

 

 

282

 

 

 

282

 

 

 

2.89

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

Argentine Central Bank’s Bill and Bonds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leliq

 

 

70,098

 

 

 

70,098

 

 

 

57.56

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

Private Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt Securities

 

 

564

 

 

 

189

 

 

 

34.88

 

%

 

375

 

 

 

53.70

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

Debt Securities of Financial Trust

 

 

102

 

 

 

102

 

 

 

-

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

Participation Certificates in Financial Trust

 

 

69

 

 

 

22

 

 

 

29.00

 

%

 

47

 

 

 

38.56

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

  Foreign Currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt Securities

 

 

125

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

6.12

 

%

 

60

 

 

 

7.66

 

%

 

49

 

 

 

7.33

 

%

 

 

 

 

7.33

 

%

Debt Securities of Financial Trust

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

%

 

-

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

%

Participation Certificates in Financial Trust

 

 

277

 

 

 

226

 

 

 

6.57

 

%

 

25

 

 

 

3.00

 

%

 

26

 

 

 

5.00

 

%

 

 

 

 

5.00

 

%

Debt Securities at FV through Profit or Loss

 

 

75,935

 

 

 

73,505

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,783

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

604

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

43

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Effective yield based on December 31, 2018 quoted market values.


Loan and Other Financing Portfolio

Our total loans and other financing reflect Banco Galicia’s, the Regional Credit Card Companies’ loan and other financing portfolios including past due principal amounts. Personal loans and credit-card loans are typically loans to individuals granted by Banco Galicia or the Regional Credit Card Companies. Most of the Regional Credit Card Companies’ loans are included under “credit card loans”. Also, certain amounts related to advances, promissory notes, mortgage loans and pledge loans are extended to individuals. However, advances and promissory notes mostly represent loans to companies. The following table analyzes our consolidated loan and other financing activities portfolio.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Principal and Interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non- Financial Public Sector

 

12

 

 

9

 

 

26

 

Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans

 

 

7,942

 

 

 

6,938

 

 

 

5,107

 

Other financing

 

 

1

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

5

 

Total Financial Institutions

 

 

7,943

 

 

 

6,942

 

 

 

5,112

 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans

 

 

283,544

 

 

 

280,870

 

 

 

244,082

 

Overdrafts

 

 

14,431

 

 

 

16,681

 

 

 

18,502

 

Promissory Notes

 

 

36,020

 

 

 

52,455

 

 

 

46,613

 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

11,793

 

 

 

8,435

 

 

 

4,014

 

Collateralized Loans

 

 

998

 

 

 

1,591

 

 

 

1,249

 

Personal Loans

 

 

29,145

 

 

 

34,632

 

 

 

24,365

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

113,395

 

 

 

125,176

 

 

 

129,153

 

Placements in Banks Abroad

 

 

5,301

 

 

 

427

 

 

 

2,266

 

Other Loans

 

 

69,493

 

 

 

44,536

 

 

 

21,047

 

Accrued Interest, Adjustment and Quotation Differences Receivable

 

 

5,388

 

 

 

335

 

 

 

(703

)

Documented Interest

 

 

(2,420

)

 

 

(3,398

)

 

 

(2,424

)

Financial Leases

 

 

2,198

 

 

 

2,476

 

 

 

1,732

 

Other Financing

 

 

4,670

 

 

 

3,293

 

 

 

3,438

 

Total Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

290,412

 

 

 

286,639

 

 

 

249,252

 

Total Gross Loans and Other Financing

 

 

298,367

 

 

 

293,590

 

 

 

254,390

 

Allowance for Loan and Other Financing Losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans

 

 

(15,550

)

 

 

(9,129

)

 

 

(8,577

)

Financial Leases

 

 

(29

)

 

 

(33

)

 

 

(26

)

Others Financing

 

 

(78

)

 

 

(73

)

 

 

(84

)

Total Allowance

 

 

(15,657

)

 

 

(9,235

)

 

 

(8,687

)

Total Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710

 

 

 

284,355

 

 

 

245,703

 

(1)

Categories of loans include:

Overdrafts:Advances: short-term obligations drawn on by customers through overdrafts.

-

Promissory Notes:

Overdrafts: endorsed promissory notes, notes and other promises to pay signed by one borrower or group of borrowers and factored loans.

-

Mortgage Loans: loans granted to purchase or improve real estate and collateralized by such real estate and commercial loans secured by a real estate mortgage.

Mortgage Loans: loans granted to purchase or improve real estate and collateralized by such real estate and commercial loans secured by a real estate mortgage.

-

Collateralized

Pledge Loans: loans secured by collateral (such as cars or machinery) other than real estate, where such collateral is an integral part of the loan documents.

-

Personal Loans: loans to individuals.

-

Credit-Card Loans: loans granted through credit cards to credit card holders.

-

Placements in Banks Abroad: short-term loans to banks abroad.

-

Other Loans: loans not included in other categories.

-

Documented Interest: discount on notes and bills.

As of December 31, 2018, Grupo Galicia’s loan and other financing portfolio before allowances for loan and other financing losses amounted to Ps.298,367 million, a 2% increase as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, Grupo Galicia’s loan and other financing portfolio before allowances for loan and other financing losses amounted to Ps.293,590 million, a 15% increase year-over-year.


The table below shows such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

Principal and Interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-Financial Public Sector

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

Local Financial Sector

 

 

 

2,098

 

 

 

762

 

 

 

193

 

 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advances

 

 

 

10,063

 

 

 

8,549

 

 

 

3,987

 

 

Promissory Notes

 

 

 

25,298

 

 

 

22,752

 

 

 

16,304

 

 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

 

2,178

 

 

 

2,099

 

 

 

1,661

 

 

Pledge Loans

 

 

 

678

 

 

 

487

 

 

 

500

 

 

Personal Loans

 

 

 

15,312

 

 

 

9,259

 

 

 

6,996

 

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

 

72,766

 

 

56,26

 

 

 

37,348

 

 

Placements in Banks Abroad

 

 

 

1,227

 

 

 

232

 

 

 

261

 

 

Other Loans

 

 

 

11,405

 

 

 

692

 

 

 

1,337

 

 

Accrued Interest, Adjustment and Quotation Differences

 

 

 

1,775

 

 

 

1,407

 

 

 

969

 

 

Receivable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Documented Interest

 

 

 

(642

)

 

 

(597

)

 

 

(348

)

 

Total Non-Financial Private-Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

140,060

 

 

101,14

 

 

 

69,015

 

 

Total Gross Loans

 

 

 

142,158

 

 

 

101,902

 

 

 

69,208

 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

 

(4,707

)

 

 

(3,560

)

 

 

(2,615

)

 

Total Loans

 

 

 

137,451

 

 

 

98,342

 

 

 

66,593

 

 

Loans with Guarantees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees (2)

 

 

 

3,322

 

 

 

2,988

 

 

 

2,695

 

 

Other Guarantees

 

 

 

18,984

 

 

 

13,508

 

 

 

9,463

 

 

Total Loans with Guarantees

 

 

 

22,306

 

 

 

16,496

 

 

 

12,158

 

 

(1)Includes local and international financial sectors.

(2) Before the allowance for loan losses.

Maturity Composition of the Loan Portfolio

The following table sets forth an analysis by type of loan and time remaining to maturity of our loan portfolio as of December 31, 2018.

 

 

As of December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Within 1 Year

 

 

After 1 Year but within 5 Years

 

 

After 5 Years

 

 

Total at December 31, 2018

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Non-Financial Public Sector (1)

 

 

12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

 

Financial Sector (1)

 

 

5,277

 

 

 

2,665

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,942

 

Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

229,018

 

 

 

48,904

 

 

 

5,622

 

 

 

283,544

 

Overdrafts

 

 

14,431

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14,431

 

Promissory Notes

 

 

28,152

 

 

 

7,655

 

 

 

213

 

 

 

36,020

 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

1,802

 

 

 

4,949

 

 

 

5,042

 

 

 

11,793

 

Collateralized Loans

 

 

684

 

 

 

303

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

998

 

Personal Loans

 

 

14,576

 

 

 

14,286

 

 

 

283

 

 

 

29,145

 

Credit-Card Loans

 

 

112,628

 

 

 

767

 

 

 

 

 

 

113,395

 

Other Loans

 

 

53,777

 

 

 

20,944

 

 

 

73

 

 

 

74,794

 

Accrued Interest and Quotation

 

 

5,388

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,388

 

    Documented Interest

 

 

(2,420

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,420

)

Allowance for Loan Losses (2)

 

 

(15,550

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(15,550

)

Total Loans, Net

 

 

218,757

 

 

 

51,569

 

 

 

5,622

 

 

 

275,948

 

(1)

Interest and the UVA/CER adjustment were assigned to the first month.

(2)

Allowances were assigned to the first month as were past due loans and loans in judicial proceedings.


Interest Rate Sensitivity of Outstanding Loans

The following table presents the interest rate sensitivity of our outstanding loans due after one year by denomination as of December 31, 2018.

 

 

As of December 31, 2018

 

 

 

In millions of Pesos

 

 

As a % of Total Loans

 

Variable Rate (1)(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

2,804

 

 

 

4.90

 

Foreign Currency

 

 

3,289

 

 

 

5.80

 

Total

 

 

6,093

 

 

 

10.70

 

Fixed Rate (2)(3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesos

 

 

27,811

 

 

 

48.60

 

Foreign Currency

 

 

23,287

 

 

 

40.70

 

Total

 

 

51,098

 

 

 

89.30

 

(1)

Includes overdraft loans.

(2)

Includes past due loans and excludes interest receivable, differences in quotations and the UVA/CER adjustment.

(3)

Includes short-term and long-term loans whose rates are determined at the beginning of the loans’ life.

Credit Review Process

Credit risk is the potential for financial loss resulting from the failure of a borrower to honor its financial contractual obligations. Our credit risk arises mainly from Banco Galicia’s and Tarjeta Naranja’s lending activities, and from the fact that, in the normal course of business, these subsidiaries are parties to certain transactions with off-balance sheet treatment and associated risk, mainly commitments to extend credit and guarantees granted. See also Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”─A. “Operating Results”─ “Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements”.

Our credit approval and credit risk analysis is a centralized process based balancing a variety of factors. In undertaking credit approval and credit risk analyses, the Bank’s risk management, credit and origination divisions, both with respect to retail and wholesale businesses, efficiently work together to management asset quality, proactively management problem loans, aggressive charge-offs for uncollectible loans, and adequate loan loss provisioning. These processes also include the update of financial models to measure portfolio risk at operational and customer levels, facilitating the detection of defaulting, or potentially defaulting, loans and losses associated therewith, which allows for the proactive management of the same in order to prevent portfolio deterioration, enabling appropriate protection of our assets.

Banco Galicia

The Risk Division is responsible for the overall risk management of the Bank and its subsidiaries, in accordance with international best practices and handles solvency, financial, operational, credit, technological, reputational and strategic risks. The Risk Division is independent from the business areas of the Bank and its subsidiaries and it reports directly to the Bank’s General Division. The Risk Division works with the functional support of the Compliance and Money Laundering Prevention Division, a division that also reports to the Board of Directors, and whose purpose is to prevent the execution of financial operations with funds derived from illegal activities, and the use of the Bank as a vehicle for laundering money and funding terrorist activities. In addition, the Risk Division monitors compliance with the laws, regulations and internal policies in order to prevent financial and/or criminal penalties and to minimize any reputational impact. It is an independent role that coordinates and assists in identifying, providing advice on, monitoring, reporting and warning management regarding compliance risks.

Moreover, in order to have timely information and a flexible structure in place to efficiently respond and adjust to macro and microeconomic variables, the Risk Division is responsible for credit extension and recovery functions for companies and individuals.

The mission of the Risk Division is comprised of the following activities:


actively and comprehensively managing and monitoring the risks taken by Banco Galicia and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with internal policies and regulations in force;

keeping the Board of Directors informed of the risks faced by the Bank, proposing how to deal with such risks;

helping to strengthen a risk management culture;

establishing the risks the Bank is willing to take and designing policies and procedures to monitor, control and mitigate the same;

escalating deviations from internal policies to the Bank’s General Division; and

managing the evaluation process of available financing capacilities and required capital resources to maintain an appropriate risk profile.

The Risk Division’s responsibilities include:

ensuring action and contingency plans are in place to address any deviations from acceptable thresholds for risks posing a threat to business continuity;

recommending the most suitable methodologies for the Bank to measure identified risks;

guaranteeing that the launching of any new product includes a previous assessment of potential risks involved;

providing technical support and assisting the Management Division regarding risk management;

developing and proposing the strategies for credit and credit-granting policies; and

managing and monitoring the credit origination processes, follow-up and control thereof, and the recovery of past-due loans.

Banco Galicia complies with all regulatory requirements set forth by Law No.25,246, as amended, Resolution No.30/2017, as amended, issued by the Financial Information Unit (the “UIF”) and Argentine Central Bank’s Communication “A” 6399, as supplemented and/or amended.

The Bank has policies, procedures and control structures in place related to the features of the various products offered, which help monitor transactions in order to identify unusual or suspicious transactions and report them to the UIF. The Compliance and Money Laundering Prevention Division is responsible for managing this risk, through the implementation of control and prevention procedures as well as the communication thereof to the rest of the organization through the drafting of the corresponding handbooks and the training of all employees.

Banco Galicia has appointed a Director responsible for the management of this risk, and has created a Committee in charge of planning, coordinating and enforcing the compliance with the policies set by the Board of Directors. The basic principle on which the regulations regarding prevention and control of money laundering are based is in line with the “know your customer” policy in force worldwide. Such risks are regularly reviewed through internal and external audits.

The following subdivisions depend on support from the Risk Division: Wholesale Credit, Retail Credit and Credit Recovery. They are responsible for developing and proposing strategies for credit and credit-granting policies, as well as managing and monitoring credit origination processes, follow-up and control thereof, and the recovery of past-due loans. The goal of these divisions is to ensure the quality of the loan portfolio, minimize costsdocuments.


Personal Loans: loans to individuals.

Credit-Card Loans: loans granted through credit cards to credit card holders.

Placements in Banks Abroad: short-term loans to banks abroad.

Pre-financing and financing of exports: loans for exports.

Other Loans: loans not included in other categories.

Documented Interest: discount on notes and bills.

As of December 31, 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s loan and other financing portfolio before allowances for loan and other financing losses amounted to Ps.563,668 million, an 8% increase as compared to the year ended December 31, 2019.

In line with the Government’s measures in order to address the impact of COVID-19, the BCRA issued some regulations related to financing, including loans with reduced rates and for production lines (for further information please see “Argentine Banking Regulations” – “Financing Loans for Economic Development”, below). Out of total loans, there are Ps.11.739 million that corresponded to financing lines for productive investment of small and medium companies. As of December 31, 2020, there are Ps.19,689 million that corresponded to loans with reduced rate (between 0% and 24%).

Maturity Composition of the Loan Portfolio

The following table sets forth an analysis by type of loan and time remaining to maturity of our loan portfolio as of December 31, 2020.

   As of December 31, 2020 
   In 1 year or less  After 1 year
through 5 years
   After 5 years
through 15 years
   After 15 years   Total at
December 31,
2020
 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Variable Rates

         

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

   22,215   15,979    282    —      38,476 

Loans

   22,215   15,979    282    —      38,476 

Advances

   1,100   —      —      —      1,100 

Overdrafts

   15,808   11,468    136    —      27,412 

Mortgage Loans

   2,896   3,435    146    —      6,477 

Pledge Loans

   77   166    —      —      243 

Personal Loans

   2,290   910    —      —      3,200 

Pre-financing and financing of exports

   44   —      —      —      44 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Variable Rate

   22,215   15,979    282    —      38,476 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fixed Rates

         

Financial Institutions

   13,488   627        14,115 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

   420,502   45,289    481    14    466,286 

Loans

   420,502   45,289    481    14    466,286 

Advances

   28,116   3    —      —      28,119 

Overdrafts

   108,486   7,864    7    —      116,357 

Mortgage Loans

   1,112   1,468    37    11    2,628 

Pledge Loans

   8,394   2,947    —      3    11,344 

Personal Loans

   14,121   15,099    437    —      29,657 

Credit Card Loans

   239,738   2,055    —      —      241,793 

Placements in Banks Abroad

   1,662   —      —      —      1,662 

Pre-financing and financing of exports

   13,590   15,853    —      —      29,443 

Other Loans

   5,283   —      —      —      5,283 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Fixed Rate

   433,990   45,916    481    14    480,401 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjustable Rate

         

Financial Institutions

   586   —      —      —      586 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

   4,362   6,309    357    —      11,028 

Loans

   4,362   6,309    357    —      11,028 

Mortgage Loans

   1,615   5,409    357    —      7,381 

Personal Loans

   2,747   900    —      —      3,647 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Adjustable Rate

   4,948   6,309    357    —      11,614 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Loan

   461,153   68,204    1,120    14    530,491 

Accrued Interest, Adjustment and Quotation Differences Receivable

   23,650   —      —      —      23,650 

Documented Interest

   (2,233  —      —      —      (2,233

Allowance

   (36,707  —      —      —      (36,707
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL

   445,863   68,204    1,120    14    515,201 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Interest and the UVA/CER adjustment were assigned to the first month.

v) Credit Review Process

Credit risk is the potential for financial loss resulting from the failure of a borrower to honor its financial contractual obligations. Our credit risk arises mainly from Banco Galicia’s and Naranja’s lending activities, and from the fact that, in the normal course of business, these subsidiaries are parties to certain transactions with off-balance sheet treatment and associated risk, mainly commitments to extend credit and guarantees granted. See also Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—A. “Operating Results”— “Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements”.

Our credit approval and credit risk analysis is a centralized process based on balancing a variety of factors. In undertaking credit approval and credit risk analyses, the Bank’s risk management, credit and origination divisions, both with respect to retail and wholesale businesses, efficiently work together to management asset quality, proactively management problem loans, aggressive charge-offs for uncollectible loans, and adequate loan loss provisioning. These processes also include the update of financial models to measure portfolio risk at operational and customer levels, facilitating the detection of defaulting, or potentially defaulting, loans and losses associated therewith, which allows for the proactive management of the same in order to prevent portfolio deterioration, enabling appropriate protection of our assets.

Banco Galicia

The Risk Division is responsible for the overall risk management of the Bank in accordance with international best practices and handles solvency, financial, operational, credit, technological, reputational and strategic risks. The Risk Division is independent from the business areas of the Bank and its subsidiaries and it reports directly to the Bank’s General Division. The Risk Division works with the functional support of the Compliance and Money Laundering Prevention Division, a division that also reports to the Board of Directors, and whose purpose is to prevent the execution of financial operations with funds derived from illegal activities, and the use of the Bank as a vehicle for laundering money and funding terrorist activities. In addition, the Risk Division monitors compliance with the laws, regulations and internal policies in order to prevent financial and/or criminal penalties and to minimize any reputational impact. It is an independent role that coordinates and assists in identifying, providing advice on, monitoring, reporting and warning management regarding compliance risks.

Moreover, in order to have timely information and a flexible structure in place to efficiently respond and adjust to macro and microeconomic variables, the Risk Division is responsible for credit extension and recovery functions for companies and individuals.

The mission of the Risk Division is comprised of the following activities:

actively and comprehensively managing and monitoring the risks taken by Banco Galicia and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with internal policies and regulations in force;

keeping the Board of Directors informed of the risks faced by the Bank, proposing how to deal with such risks;

helping to strengthen a risk management culture;

establishing the risks, the Bank is willing to take and designing policies and procedures to monitor, control and mitigate the same;

escalating deviations from internal policies to the Bank’s General Division; and

managing the evaluation process of available financing capabilities and required capital resources to maintain an appropriate risk profile.

The Risk Division’s responsibilities include:

ensuring action and contingency plans are in place to address any deviations from acceptable thresholds for risks posing a threat to business continuity;

recommending the most suitable methodologies for the Bank to measure identified risks;

guaranteeing that the launching of any new product includes a previous assessment of potential risks involved;

providing technical support and assisting the Management Division regarding risk management;

developing and proposing the strategies for credit and credit-granting policies; and

managing and monitoring the credit origination processes, follow-up and control thereof, and the recovery of past-due loans.

Banco Galicia complies with all regulatory requirements set forth by Law No.25,246, as amended, Resolution No.30/2017, as amended, issued by the Financial Information Unit (the “UIF”) and BCRA’s Communication “A” 6399, as supplemented and/or amended.

The Bank has policies, procedures and control structures in place related to the features of the various products offered, which help monitor transactions in order to identify unusual or suspicious transactions and report them to the UIF. The Compliance and Money Laundering Prevention Division is responsible for managing this risk, through the implementation of control and prevention procedures as well as the communication thereof to the rest of the organization through the drafting of the corresponding handbooks and the training of all employees.

Banco Galicia has appointed a Director responsible for the management of this risk, and has created a Committee in charge of planning, coordinating and enforcing the compliance with the policies set by the Board of Directors. The basic principle on which the regulations regarding prevention and control of money laundering are based is in line with the “know your customer” policy in force worldwide. Such risks are regularly reviewed through internal and external audits.

The following subdivisions depend on support from the Risk Division: Wholesale Credit, Retail Credit and Credit Recovery. They are responsible for developing and proposing strategies for credit and credit-granting policies, as well as managing and monitoring credit origination processes, follow-up and control thereof, and the recovery of past-due loans. The goal of these divisions is to ensure the quality of the loan portfolio, minimize costs while maximizing efficiency, and recovery optimization, thus minimizing loan losses and optimizing efficiency in the credit extension process.

The Retail Credit Division is responsible for ensuring that the fraud screening and prevention process is effective, thereby assuring the quality of the retail portfolio. This Division designs and manages complex credit decision-taking models and tools, directs the alignment efforts to implement retail business strategies, and works together with the business team to suggest business opportunities.

The Wholesale Credit Division is responsible for the corporate rating process, thus assuring the quality of the wholesale portfolio. This Division directs alignment efforts to implement business strategies based on the customer service model, working together with the business team to suggest business opportunities. This Division deals specifically with complex businesses such as banks, public companies, capital markets transactions and investment projects.

Before approving a loan, Banco Galicia performs an assessment of the potential borrower and his/her financial condition. Approvals of loans exceeding certain amounts are analyzed based on the credit line and the customer.

Banco Galicia performs its risk assessment based on the following factors:

 

Qualitative Analysis

Qualitative Analysis

Assessment of the corporate borrower’s creditworthiness performed by the officer in charge of the account based on personal knowledge.

Economic and Financial Risk

Quantitative analysis of the borrower’s balance sheet amounts.

Economic Risk of the Sector

Measurement of the general risk of the financial sector where the borrower operates (based on statistical information, internal and external).

Environmental Risk

Environmental impact analysis (required for all investment projects of significant amounts).

Loans are generally approved pursuant to pre-set authorization levels, except loans exceeding certain amounts, which are approved by the Credit Committee.

The Recovery Management Division is responsible for administering and managing bothofficer in charge of the Bank’s performing and under-performing credit portfolio, seeking to minimize the deterioration thereof and establishing recovery of such credit portfolios. Management models and specific strategies are applied to each type of portfolio, segments and tranches in arrears, from early defaults to out-of-court and judicial proceedings.

Tarjeta Naranja

Credit Risk

Credit risk for Tarjeta Naranja arises from a variety of factors, including credit risk related to failures to pay by entities that Tarjeta Naranja lends money to and failures to pay outstanding credit card balances by individual clients that hold credit cards with Tarjeta Naranja.

With respect to investments, Tarjeta Naranja evaluates its credit risk or exposure pursuant to an investment and credit evaluation policy. In accordance with this policy, the Company (i) has certain internal credit risk rating requirements that any company in which it invests must meet, (ii) requires certain debt to equity ratios be maintained


by any company to which it lends money and (iii) has upper limits on the amount that it will invest in any given company.

The Company actively monitors the creditworthiness of its clients to minimize its overall exposure to their credit risk. The Company uses the following tools to evaluate and manage the creditworthiness of its clients:

statistical models that determine the amount of credit that Tarjeta Naranja is comfortable extending to a clientaccount based on the client’s specific financial situation;

guidelines for providing credit cardspersonal knowledge.

Economic and loans based on the client’s specific financial situation (i.e., verificationFinancial RiskQuantitative analysis of the applicant’s identity, monthly income, numberborrower’s balance sheet amounts.
Economic Risk of family members, geographic locationthe SectorMeasurement of the general risk of the financial sector where the borrower operates (based on statistical information, internal and occupation);

case-by-case evaluationexternal).

Environmental RiskEnvironmental impact analysis (required for all investment projects of appropriate credit limits for each applicant;significant amounts).

Loans are generally approved pursuant to pre-set authorization levels, except loans exceeding certain amounts, which are approved by the Credit Committee.

The Recovery Management Division is responsible for administering and managing both the Bank’s performing and under-performing credit portfolio, seeking to minimize the deterioration thereof and establishing recovery of such credit portfolios. Management models and specific strategies are applied to each type of portfolio, segments and tranches in arrears, from early defaults to out-of-court and judicial proceedings.

Naranja

Credit Risk

Credit risk for Naranja arises from a variety of factors, including credit risk related to failures to pay by entities that Naranja lends money to and failures to pay outstanding credit card balances by individual clients that hold credit cards with Naranja.

With respect to investments, Naranja evaluates its credit risk or exposure pursuant to an investment and credit evaluation policy. In accordance with this policy, the Company (i) has certain internal credit risk rating requirements that any company in which it invests must meet, (ii) requires certain debt to equity ratios be maintained by any company to which it lends money and (iii) has upper limits on the amount that it will invest in any given company.

The Company actively monitors the creditworthiness of its clients to minimize its overall exposure to their credit risk. The Company uses the following tools to evaluate and manage the creditworthiness of its clients:

statistical models that determine the amount of credit that

ongoing monitoring of each client’s credit position and payment history.

Naranja is comfortable extending to a client based on the client’s specific financial situation;

guidelines for providing credit cards and loans based on the client’s specific financial situation (i.e., verification of the applicant’s identity, monthly income, number of family members, geographic location and occupation);

case-by-case evaluation of appropriate credit limits for each applicant; and

ongoing monitoring of each client’s credit position and payment history.

Procedure for Credit Card Application

The credit risk associated with a credit card applicant is evaluated by reviewing the information with respect to each applicant set forth above. The Risk Committee establishes the guidelines and requirements for credit card applicants. Such guidelines are based on statistical models and objective criteria in order for internal credit analysts to efficiently approve or reject each credit card application.

In addition to reviewing each applicant’s credit record, the Company also verifies the credit score and payment history of each applicant. Once the information has been verified and, to the extent the customer meets all applicable requirements, the credit card is issued and delivered at the applicant’s address, or the applicant may arrange to pick it up at any of the Company’s branches.

Determination of Credit Limits

Customer’s credit limits are determined on the basis of an assessment of each customer’s specific financial situation. Based on such assessment, customers are assigned one of five risk levels: A, B, C, D or E, with A being the lowest risk segment and E being the highest risk segment. In making such assignment, certain factors are considered, including, but not limited to, monthly income, number of family members, geographic location and occupation. The customer is then assigned a credit limit based on his or her risk level, which is shared among all credit cards associated with such customer, whether as a primary or additional cardholder. The credit limit assigned to each customer includes: (i) the monthly balance limit; (ii) the long-term purchase limit (the maximum amount for a customer to purchase in six or more installments using the credit card); (iii) the total credit limit (the maximum amount that may be owed to the Company); (iv) the maximum balance limit for cash advances, which represents 50% ofis determined based on risk segmentation, monthly income, and internal indebtedness as well as in the long-termfinancial system, not being able to exceed the LCPL (long-term purchase limit in a maximum amount of Ps.50,000 (the maximum amount for cash withdrawals) and (v) the limit for loans to be repaid in up to 50 months.plan).

Below is a detail of the percentage limits and nominal caps assigned to each risk segment.

 

 

Monthly Balance Limit

 

 

Long-term Purchase Limit

 

 

Total Credit Limit

 

  Monthly Balance Limit   Long-term Purchase Limit   Total Credit Limit 

Risk Segment

 

Income %

 

 

Floor in Ps.

 

 

Top

 

 

Income %

 

 

Floor in Ps.

 

 

Top

 

 

Income %

 

 

Floor in Ps.

 

 

Top

 

  Income%   Floor in
Ps.
   Top   Income
%
   Floor in
Ps.
   Top   Income
%
   Floor in
Ps.
   Top 

A (Lowest)

 

 

100

 

 

 

3,000

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

250

 

 

 

3,000

 

 

 

120,000

 

 

 

300

 

 

 

3,000

 

 

 

140,000

 

   100    14,000    75,000    160    5,000    180,000    200    5,000    210,000 

B

 

 

90

 

 

 

2,700

 

 

 

35,000

 

 

 

225

 

 

 

2,700

 

 

 

80,000

 

 

 

270

 

 

 

2,700

 

 

 

10,000

 

   90    11,000    55,000    150    4,500    12,000    180    4,500    150,000 

C

 

 

80

 

 

 

2,400

 

 

 

22,000

 

 

 

200

 

 

 

2,400

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

240

 

 

 

2,400

 

 

 

60,000

 

   80    9,000    44,000    140    4,000    75,000    170    4,000    95,000 

D

 

 

70

 

 

 

2,100

 

 

 

15,000

 

 

 

175

 

 

 

2,100

 

 

 

35,000

 

 

 

210

 

 

 

2,100

 

 

 

40,000

 

   70    7,000    31,000    120    3,500    50,000    150    3,500    60,000 

E (Highest)

 

 

60

 

 

 

1,800

 

 

 

10,000

 

 

 

150

 

 

 

1,800

 

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

180

 

 

 

1,800

 

 

 

30,000

 

   60    6,000    15,000    100    3,000    35,000    120    3,000    40,000 

Tarjeta Naranja reviews such credit limits on a daily basis and a credit limit may be automatically increased for eligible cardholders meeting certain requirements, including payment history. In addition, Tarjeta Naranja


reviews cardholders’ applications for increases in the monthly limit and may, in its sole discretion, increase such limits based on the individual customer’s payment history and total income level.

Credit cards are extended to clients active in a wide range of business sectors. As such, the Company maintains a diversified portfolio of risk exposure based on economic fluctuations.

vi) Financial Instruments Classification and Loss Provisions

General

The “Expected Credit Loss” (“ECL”) model applies to financial assets which are valued at both amortized cost and fair value through OCI.other comprehensive income (“OCI”). The standard establishes three categories to classify financial instruments, primarily taking into account the credit risk evolution over time. Stage 1 includes financial assets with normal or no significant risk associated; Stage 2 includes financial assets for which a significant increase in credit risk has been identified but they are not yet deemed to be credit-impaired and Stage 3 comprises financial assets which are impaired and/or subject to serious risk of impairment.Toimpairment. To calculate the provisions for credit impairment risk, IFRS 9 differentiates among these three stages by applying the following concepts:

12- Month Expected Credit Losses: Possible events of default within the 12 months following the date of the presentation of financial statements. Assets included in Stage 1 have their ECL measured at 12-month ECL.

Lifetime Expected Credit Losses: ECL during the active period of the financial asset, which results of calculating the probability of impairment of an asset throughout its duration, up until its maturity. Instruments in Stage 2 or 3 have their ECL measured based on lifetime ECL.

The measurement of ECL in accordance with IFRS 9 should consider forward looking information.Toinformation. To estimate ECL, Grupo Galicia has applied the following definitions and parameters, in accordance with IFRS 9.

Financial Instruments Classification

Grupo Galicia classifies its financial instruments into the following groups: (i) retail loans, (ii) retail-like loans, (iii) wholesale loans and (iv) Tarjeta Naranja.

Each subsidiary of Grupo Galicia classifies financial instruments subject to impairment under IFRS 9 in stages, as follows:

Stage 1: With respect to retail portfolios, Stage 1 includes every financial instrument up to 31 days past due. With respect to wholesale portfolios, Stage 1 includes every client whose Argentine Central BankBCRA situation indicates a normal status (rating A) (i.e. low risk of bankruptcy).

Stage 2: This stage includes financial assets for which a significant increase in credit risk has been identified. This stage considers two groups:

For retail and retail like Portfolios between 31 and 90 days past due.

Probability of Default or Score with impairment risk.

For wholesale it considers credit ratings for which the risk of default has increased significantly.

Probability of Default or Score with impairment risk.

Stage 3: For all portfolios, Stage 3 includes every client whose BCRA situation indicates a serious risk of bankruptcy (ratings C, D, E). With respect to retail portfolios, Stage 3 also includes financial instruments that are 90 or more days past due. With respect to wholesale portfolios, Stage 3 includes every client whose Argentine Central Bank situation indicates a serious risk of bankruptcy (ratings C, D, E, F).

See the Argentina Central Bank Classification, on ─“—“Argentine Banking Regulation” “Loan Classification System”.


Definition of Default

A financial instrument is considered to be in default whenever payment is more than 90 days past due, or if Grupo Galicia believes that the amount due will not be repaid in full. The credit analysis for wholesale loans is not the same as for retail loans and Grupo Galicia’s definition of default with respect to wholesale portfolios is based on a credit analysis of the individual borrower. The definition of default is applied consistently to produce models for the Probability of Default, Exposure at Default and Loss Given Default in Grupo Galicia’s expected loss calculations:

Probability of Default:Default (“PD”): This is the likelihood of a borrower defaulting on its financial obligation, either over the next 12 months or during the remaining term of the obligation.

Exposure at Default: This is based on the amounts Grupo Galicia expects to be owed at the time of default, either over the next 12 months or over the remaining term. For example, for a revolving commitment, Grupo Galicia includes the current draw down balance plus any further amount that it is expected to be drawn up to the current contractual limit by the time of default, should it occur.

Loss Given Default: This represents Grupo Galicia’s expectation of the total loss it will incur in respect of an obligation in default and varies according to the counterparty, seniority of the claim and availability of collateral or other credit support. Loss Given Default is expressed as a percentage loss per Peso of exposure at the time of default and is calculated over the term of the relevant obligation or on a 12-month basis.

A financial instrument is no longer considered to be in default when it does not meet any of the above-mentioned default criteria.

Methodology for Expected Credit Loss Estimation

ECL impairment allowances recognized in the financial statements reflect the effect of a variety of possible economic outcomes (as described below) and calculated on a probability-weighted basis. ECL measurement involves the application of judgment and estimates. It is necessary to formulate multiple forward-looking economic forecasts and incorporate them into the ECL estimates. Grupo Galicia uses a standard framework to form economic scenarios to reflect assumptions about future economic conditions, supplemented with the use of management judgment, which may result in using alternative or additional economic scenarios and/or management adjustments.

IFRS 9 establishes the following standards regarding ECL:

An unbiased weighted probability index, determined by the evaluation of different outcomes.

Time value of money.

Reasonable and sustainable information available at no additional cost or effort that provides evidence to support forecasts, as well as present conditions and past events.

Grupo Galicia developed a forward-looking methodology to evaluate the impact of different future macroeconomic scenarios on the credit risk of the financial assets. Grupo Galicia prepared three outcomes with varying probabilities in accordance with IFRS: (i) a median scenario with a 70% probability of occurrence, (ii) a downside scenario with a 15% probability of occurrence and (iii) an upside scenario with a 15% probability of occurrence

In order to account for time value of money, Grupo Galicia assumes expected losses will take place proportionally over time. The ECL is determined by determining the Probability of Default, Exposure at Default and the Loss Given Default for each future month for each collective segment. These three components are multiplied and adjusted, as applicable, to take into account any forward-looking information, thus calculating ECL for each


month on a forward-looking basis, , which is then discounted back to the reporting date and summed. The discount rate used in the ECL calculation is the original effective interest rate (or an estimate thereof).

Post-model adjustments

Since March 2020, the BCRA implemented a series of measures to reduce the economic consequences of COVID-19 pandemic, among which are the deferral of payments and suspension of the collection of punitive interest in case of default in payments of loan installments, being the credit cards loans excluded from this benefit.

Thus, considering the adverse economic context that the country is going through, borrower credit uncertainty and measures issued by the BCRA, the management recognized an additional credit loss allowance to that obtained through the statistical model of ECL on the deferred loan portfolio amounts, which shows the potential impairment due to the macroeconomic context, once the implemented measures are lifted for the BCRA.

The management measured the additional impact on the allowance from the estimation of the expected credit loss of loan portfolios which have deferred payments, based on new PD estimated depending on actual past due date (without deferrals) and the projected performance of the affected products, modifying the staging classification through a “Lifetime Adjustment”.

vii) Credit Risk Exposure of Financial Instruments

The following table sets forth the credit risk exposure of financial instruments for which an ECL allowance is recognized.

 

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Total

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

80,123

 

 

 

10,386

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

90,509

 

1-30

 

 

2,220

 

 

 

1,201

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,421

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,523

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,523

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

789

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,381

 

 

 

3,381

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

82,343

 

 

 

13,899

 

 

 

3,381

 

 

 

99,623

 

Loss allowance

 

 

2,600

 

 

 

2,318

 

 

 

2,560

 

 

 

7,478

 

Carrying amount

 

 

79,743

 

 

 

11,581

 

 

 

821

 

 

 

92,145

 

 

 

Retail like Portfolio

 

  Retail Portfolio 

 

December 31, 2018

 

  December 31, 2020 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

  ECL Staging   

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

  Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3   

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Total

 

  12-month
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
 Total 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

0

 

 

29,273

 

 

 

3,103

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

32,376

 

   115,541    47,518    —     163,059 

1-30

 

 

867

 

 

 

458

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,325

 

   1,378    1,165    1,509   4,052 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

336

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

336

 

   —      998    49   1,047 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

262

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

262

 

   —      561    95   656 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,798

 

 

 

1,798

 

   —      —      5,557   5,557 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

30,140

 

 

 

4,159

 

 

 

1,798

 

 

 

36,097

 

   116,919    50,242    7,210   174,371 

Loss allowance

 

 

267

 

 

 

280

 

 

 

1,180

 

 

 

1,727

 

   (4,954   (12,628   (5,894  (23,476

Carrying amount

 

 

29,873

 

 

 

3,879

 

 

 

618

 

 

 

34,370

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   111,965    37,614    1,316   150,895 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        3.19

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        422.46

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        11.98

 

   Retail like Portfolio 
   December 31, 2020 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3    
   12-month
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
  Total 

Days past due

       

0

   104,800    12,160    962   117,922 

1-30

   969    542    218   1,729 

31-60

   —      210    6   216 

61-90

   —      45    16   61 

Default

   —      —      1,187   1,187 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   105,769    12,957    2,389   121,115 

Loss allowance

   (559   (2,131   (1,832  (4,522
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   105,210    10,826    557   116,593 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        0.98

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        380.96

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        4.03

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

  Wholesale Portfolio 

 

December 31, 2018

 

  December 31, 2020 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

  ECL Staging   

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

  Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3   

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Total

 

  12-month
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
 Total 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

A

 

 

135,513

 

 

 

6,048

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

141,566

 

   263,742    12,557    —     276,299 

B1

 

 

(2,238

)

 

 

39

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,199

)

   —      1,002    —     1,002 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,515

 

 

 

2,515

 

   —      —      796   796 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

133,275

 

 

 

6,087

 

 

 

2,520

 

 

 

141,882

 

   263,742    13,559    796   278,097 

Loss allowance

 

 

526

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

668

 

 

 

1,271

 

   (1,960   (623   (607  (3,190

Carrying amount

 

 

132,749

 

 

 

6,010

 

 

 

1,852

 

 

 

140,611

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   261,782    12,936    189   274,907 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        0.29

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        400.75

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        1.50

 

   Naranja 
   December 31, 2020 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3    
   12-month
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
   Lifetime
ECL
  Total 

Days past due

       

0

   85,989    1,004    263   87,256 

1-30

   3,232    226    56   3,514 

31-60

   —      853    48   901 

61-90

   —      373    30   403 

Default

   —      —      1,975   1,975 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   89,221    2,456    2,372   94,049 

Loss allowance

   (3,708   (589   (1,848  (6,145
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   85,513    1,867    524   87,904 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        2.10

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        311.14

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        5.02


 

Tarjeta Naranja

 

  Retail Portfolio 

 

December 31, 2018

 

  December 31, 2019 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

  ECL Staging     

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

  Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3     

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Total

 

  12-month   Lifetime   Lifetime   Total 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

        

0

 

 

36,512

 

 

 

3,024

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

39,536

 

   106,961    39,205    1,242    147,408 

1-30

 

 

2,572

 

 

 

947

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,519

 

   2,127    2,070    252    4,449 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,702

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,702

 

   —      1,718    222    1,940 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

940

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

940

 

   —      719    375    1,094 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,787

 

 

 

3,787

 

   —      —      5,829    5,829 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

39,084

 

 

 

6,613

 

 

 

3,787

 

 

 

49,484

 

   109,088    43,712    7,920    160,720 

Loss allowance

 

 

1,377

 

 

 

1,843

 

 

 

2,088

 

 

 

5,308

 

   (5,514   (2,555   (6,230   (14,299

Carrying amount

 

 

37,707

 

 

 

4,770

 

 

 

1,699

 

 

 

44,176

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   103,574    41,157    1,690    146,421 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Credit Quality

        

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

         3.63

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

         245.31

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

         6.06

 

   Retail like Portfolio 
   December 31, 2019 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3    
   12-month   Lifetime   Lifetime  Total 

Days past due

       

0

   44,985    5,851    677   51,513 

1-30

   1,779    725    225   2,729 

31-60

   —      218    87   305 

61-90

   —      234    202   436 

Default

   —      —      3,318   3,318 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   46,764    7,028    4,509   58,301 

Loss allowance

   (480   (199   (3,424  (4,103
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   46,284    6,829    1,085   54,198 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        5.69

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        123.66

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        8.14

 

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Total

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

90,744

 

 

 

11,508

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

102,252

 

1-30

 

 

2,266

 

 

 

1,166

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,432

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,137

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,137

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

490

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

490

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,606

 

 

 

2,606

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

93,010

 

 

 

14,301

 

 

 

2,606

 

 

 

109,917

 

Loss allowance

 

 

1,094

 

 

 

917

 

 

 

1,676

 

 

 

3,687

 

Carrying amount

 

 

91,916

 

 

 

13,384

 

 

 

930

 

 

 

106,230

 

   Wholesale Portfolio 
   December 31, 2019 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3    
   12-month   Lifetime   Lifetime  Total 

Days past due

       

A

   280,598    7,743    —     288,341 

B1

   —      514    —     514 

Default

   —      —      6,639   6,639 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   280,598    8,257    6,639   295,494 

Loss allowance

   (679   (302   (6,116  (7,097
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   279,919    7,955    523   288,397 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        2.25

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        106.90

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        2.64

 

 

 

Retail like Portfolio

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Total

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

27,629

 

 

 

2,970

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

30,599

 

1-30

 

 

394

 

 

 

317

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

711

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

137

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

137

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

98

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

98

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

802

 

 

 

802

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

28,023

 

 

 

3,522

 

 

 

802

 

 

 

32,347

 

Loss allowance

 

 

222

 

 

 

127

 

 

 

617

 

 

 

966

 

Carrying amount

 

 

27,801

 

 

 

3,395

 

 

 

185

 

 

 

31,381

 

 

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Total

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

 

 

122,301

 

 

 

8,138

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

130,441

 

B1

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

808

 

 

 

808

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

122,301

 

 

 

8,215

 

 

 

810

 

 

 

131,326

 

Loss allowance

 

 

212

 

 

 

45

 

 

 

494

 

 

 

751

 

Carrying amount

 

 

122,089

 

 

 

8,170

 

 

 

316

 

 

 

130,575

 


 

 

Tarjeta Naranja

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Total

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

39,229

 

 

 

4,166

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

43,395

 

1-30

 

 

1,811

 

 

 

1,579

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,390

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,128

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,128

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

527

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

527

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,935

 

 

 

2,935

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

41,040

 

 

 

7,400

 

 

 

2,935

 

 

 

51,375

 

Loss allowance

 

 

904

 

 

 

1,270

 

 

 

1,703

 

 

 

3,877

 

Carrying amount

 

 

40,136

 

 

 

6,130

 

 

 

1,232

 

 

 

47,498

 

   Naranja 
   December 31, 2019 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1   Stage 2   Stage 3    
   12-month   Lifetime   Lifetime  Total 

Days past due

       

0

   60,763    724    356   61,843 

1-30

   3,314    217    122   3,653 

31-60

   —      1,656    104   1,760 

61-90

   —      856    63   919 

Default

   —      —      7,597   7,597 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   64,077    3,453    8,242   75,772 

Loss allowance

   (2,755   (958   (6,379  (10,092
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   61,322    2,495    1,863   65,680 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Credit Quality

       

Default as a Percentage of Total Financial Instruments Portfolio

        10.03

Allowance for Financial Instruments as a Percentage of Default

        132.84

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Financial Instruments Portfolio

        10.49

Under Argentine Central BankBCRA rules, we are required to cease the accrual of interest or to establish provisions equal to 100% of the interest earned on all loans pertaining to the non-accrual loan portfolio, meaning, all loans to borrowers in Stage 3.

The table below shows the interest income that would have been recorded on non-accrual loans on which the accrual of interest was discontinued and the recoveries of interest on loans classified as non-accrual on which the accrual of interest had been discontinued:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Interest Income that Would Have Been Recorded on Non-Accrual Loans on which the Accrual of Interest was Discontinued

 

 

811

 

 

 

181

 

Recoveries of Interest on Loans Classified as Non-Accrual on which the Accrual of Interest had been Discontinued (1)

 

 

41

 

 

 

9

 

   December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Interest Income that Would Have Been Recorded on Non-Accrual Loans on which the Accrual of Interest was Discontinued

   2,235    4,036    1,248 

Recoveries of Interest on Loans Classified as Non-Accrual on which the Accrual of Interest had been Discontinued (1)

   112    202    63 

(1)

Recorded under “Other operating income”.

The table below sets forth such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.


 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except ratios)

Total Loans (1)

 

 

142,158

 

 

 

101,902

 

 

 

69,208

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees

 

96

 

 

106

 

 

50

 

 

With Other Guarantees

 

88

 

 

103

 

 

59

 

 

Without Guarantees

 

 

4,520

 

 

 

2,958

 

 

 

2,363

 

 

Total Non-Accrual Loans (2)

 

 

4,704

 

 

 

3,167

 

 

 

2,472

 

 

Past Due Loan Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-Financial Public Sector

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

Local Financial Sector

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advances

 

189

 

 

188

 

 

169

 

 

Promissory Notes

 

144

 

 

192

 

 

121

 

 

Mortgage Loans

 

79

 

 

45

 

 

12

 

 

Pledge Loans

 

3

 

 

8

 

 

9

 

 

Personal Loans

 

274

 

 

304

 

 

262

 

 

Credit-Card Loans

 

 

2,673

 

 

 

1,693

 

 

1,2

 

 

Other Loans

 

93

 

 

74

 

 

33

 

 

Total Past Due Loans

 

 

3,455

 

 

 

2,504

 

 

 

1,806

 

 

Past Due Loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees

 

60

 

 

59

 

 

42

 

 

With Other Guarantees

 

60

 

 

97

 

 

38

 

 

Without Guarantees

 

 

3,335

 

 

 

2,348

 

 

 

1,726

 

 

Total Past Due Loans

 

 

3,455

 

 

 

2,504

 

 

 

1,806

 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

4,707

 

 

3,560

 

 

 

2,615

 

 

Ratios (%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a % of Total Loans:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Past Due Loans

 

2.43

 

 

2.46

 

 

2.61

 

 

Past Due Loans with Preferred Guarantees

 

0.04

 

 

0.06

 

 

0.06

 

 

Past Due Loans with Other Guarantees

 

0.04

 

 

0.1

 

 

0.05

 

 

Past Due Unsecured Amounts

 

2.35

 

 

2.3

 

 

2.5

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans (2)

 

3.31

 

 

3.11

 

 

3.57

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans (2) (Excluding Interbank Loans)

 

3.36

 

 

3.12

 

 

3.59

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans (2) as a Percentage of Loans to the Private Sector

 

3.31

 

 

3.11

 

 

3.57

 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses as a % of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Loans

 

3.31

 

 

3.49

 

 

3.78

 

 

Total Loans Excluding Interbank Loans

 

3.36

 

 

3.5

 

 

3.79

 

 

Total Non-Accrual Loans (2)

 

100.06

 

 

112.41

 

 

105.78

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans with Guarantees as a Percentage of Non-Accrual Loans (2)

 

3.91

 

 

 

6.60

 

 

4.41

 

 

Non-Accrual Loans as a Percentage of Total Past Due Loans

 

136.15

 

 

126.48

 

 

136.88

 

 

(1)

Before the allowance for loan losses.

(2)

Non-Accrual loans are defined as those loans in the categories of: (a) Consumer portfolio: “Medium Risk”, “High Risk”, “Uncollectible”, and “Uncollectible Due to Technical Reasons”, and (b) Commercial portfolio: “With problems”, “High Risk of Insolvency”, “Uncollectible”, and “Uncollectible Due to Technical Reasons”.

 

 

As od December 31,

 

 

2016

 

2015

 

2014

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

Interest Income that Would Have Been Recorded on Non-Accrual Loans on which the Accrual of Interest was Discontinued

 

173

 

159

 

117

 

Recoveries of Interest on Loans Classified as Non-Accrual on which the Accrual of Interest had been Discontinued (1)

 

9

 

8

 

6

 

(1)

Recorded under “Miscellaneous Income”.


viii) Loss Experience

The following tables present the changes in the loss allowance between January 1,December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2020 and the changes in the loss allowance between December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2018:2019.

 

Total Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

2,432

 

 

 

2,359

 

 

 

4,490

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,281

 

Inflation effect

 

 

(785

)

 

 

(762

)

 

 

(1,449

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,996

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(153

)

 

 

153

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(54

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

54

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

291

 

 

 

(291

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

1,775

 

 

 

2,350

 

 

 

3,003

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,128

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

1,643

 

 

 

1,699

 

 

 

2,201

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,543

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

(72

)

 

 

(157

)

 

 

329

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

(330

)

 

 

330

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

43

 

 

 

(43

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

10

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(635

)

 

 

(1,135

)

 

 

(5,035

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,805

)

Write-offs

 

 

319

 

 

 

585

 

 

 

2,623

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,527

 

Loss allowance as of December 31, 2018

 

 

4,771

 

 

 

4,514

 

 

 

6,493

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

15,778

 

The table below sets forth such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except ratios)

Total Loans, Average (1)

 

 

 

111,166

 

 

 

77,832

 

 

 

59,094

 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses at Beginning of Period (2)

 

 

 

3,560

 

 

 

2,615

 

 

 

2,129

 

 

Changes in the Allowance for Loan Losses During the Period (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provisions Charged to Income

 

 

 

3,389

 

 

 

2,128

 

 

 

2,339

 

 

Prior Allowances Reversed

 

 

 

(117

)

 

-

 

 

 

(1

)

 

Charge-Offs (A)

 

 

 

(2,125

)

 

 

(1,203

)

 

 

(1,840

)

 

Inflation and Foreign Exchange Effect and Other Adjustments

 

 

-

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

(12

)

 

Allowance for Loan Losses at End of Period

 

 

 

4,707

 

 

3,560

 

 

 

2,615

 

 

Charge to the Income Statement during the Period

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provisions Charged to Income (2)

 

 

 

3,389

 

 

 

2,128

 

 

 

2,339

 

 

Direct Charge-Offs, Net of Recoveries (B)

 

 

 

(272

)

 

 

(226

)

 

 

(181

)

 

Recoveries of Provisions

 

 

 

(117

)

 

-

 

 

 

(1

)

 

Net Charge (Benefit) to the Income Statement

 

 

 

3,000

 

 

 

1,902

 

 

 

2,157

 

 

Ratios (%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charge-Offs Net of Recoveries (A+B) to Average Loans (3)

 

 

1.67

 

 

1.26

 

 

2.81

 

 

Net Charge to the Income Statement to Average Loans(3)

 

 

 

2.70

 

 

2.44

 

 

3.65

 

 

(1)

Before the allowance for loan losses.

(2)

Includes quotation differences for Galicia Uruguay.

(3)

Charge-offs plus direct charge-offs minus bad debts recovered.


Allocation of the Allowance for Financial Instruments

The following table presents the allocation of our allowance for financial instruments losses among the various loan categories and shows such allowances as a percentage of our total loan and other financing portfolio before deducting the allowance for loan and other financing losses.

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   9,428   4,014   22,149   —      35,591 

Inflation effect

   (4,039  (3,267  (7,276  —      (14,582

Movements with P&L Impact

   —     —     —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (667  667   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (267  —     267   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   422   (577  155   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   174   (536  362   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   290   —     (290  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     447   (447  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   4,487   1,097   3,099   —      8,683 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   1,467   1,557   1,273   —      4,297 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   1,340   11,186   3,686   —      16,212 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   1,985   2,357   1,146   —      5,488 

Other movements with no P&L impact

   —     —     —     —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (3,439  (974  (13,943  —      (18,356
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss allowance as of December 31, 2020

   11,181   15,971   10,181   —      37,333 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Assets Subject to Impairment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item

 

Carrying Amount

 

 

Loss Allowances

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

 

 

Collateral´s Fair Value

 

Overdrafts

 

 

14,431

 

 

 

444

 

 

 

13,987

 

 

 

-

 

Mortagage Loans

 

 

11,793

 

 

 

253

 

 

 

11,540

 

 

 

48,761

 

Collateral Loans

 

 

998

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

988

 

 

 

4,038

 

Personal Loans

 

 

29,145

 

 

 

1,122

 

 

 

28,023

 

 

 

-

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

113,395

 

 

 

9,406

 

 

 

103,989

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Leases

 

 

2,198

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

2,172

 

 

 

-

 

Promisory Notes

 

 

36,020

 

 

 

422

 

 

 

35,598

 

 

 

-

 

Pre-financing export loans

 

 

69,536

 

 

 

1,643

 

 

 

67,893

 

 

 

-

 

Others

 

 

35,021

 

 

 

2,329

 

 

 

32,692

 

 

 

2,429

 

Public Securities

 

 

14,550

 

 

 

126

 

 

 

14,424

 

 

 

-

 

Total as of December 31, 2018

 

 

327,087

 

 

 

15,781

 

 

 

311,306

 

 

 

55,228

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   9,989   9,461   13,603   —      33,053 

Inflation effect

   (4,872  (3,846  (8,172  —      (16,890

Movements with P&L Impact

   —     —     —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (879  879   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (224  —     224   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   1,664   (1,664  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (1,422  1,422   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     120   (120  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   43   —     (43  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   2,323   2,287   10,603   —      15,213 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   1,635   119   5,822   —      7,576 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (745  261   647   —      163 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   2,043   364   4,300   —      6,707 

Other movements with no P&L impact

   —     —     —     —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (1,549  (2,545  (6,137  —      (10,231
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss allowance as of December 31, 2019

   9,428   4,014   22,149   —      35,591 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The table below sets forth such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

2016

 

2015

 

2014

 

 

Amount

 

 

% of Loans

 

Loan Category %

 

Amount

 

 

% of Loans

 

Loan Category %

 

Amount

 

 

% of Loans

 

Loan Category %

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

Non-Financial Public Sector

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

Local Financial Sector

 

-

 

 

-

 

1.5

 

-

 

 

-

 

0.8

 

-

 

 

-

 

0.3

Non-Financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advances

 

161

 

 

0.1

 

7.1

 

157

 

 

0.2

 

8.4

 

121

 

 

0.2

 

5.8

Promissory Notes

 

103

 

 

0.1

 

17.8

 

150

 

 

0.2

 

22.3

 

94

 

 

0.2

 

23.6

Mortgage Loans

 

43

 

 

-

 

1.5

 

33

 

 

-

 

2.1

 

13

 

 

-

 

2.4

Pledge Loans

 

3

 

 

-

 

0.5

 

7

 

 

-

 

0.4

 

5

 

 

-

 

0.7

Personal Loans

 

324

 

 

0.2

 

10.8

 

311

 

 

0.3

 

9.1

 

299

 

 

0.4

 

10.1

Credit-Card Loans

 

 

1,808

 

 

1.3

 

51.2

 

 

1,295

 

 

1.3

 

55.2

 

 

759

 

 

1.1

 

54

Placements in Correspondent Banks

 

-

 

 

-

 

0.9

 

-

 

 

-

 

0.2

 

-

 

 

-

 

0.3

Other

 

51

 

 

-

 

8.7

 

49

 

 

-

 

1.5

 

19

 

 

-

 

2.8

Unallocated(1)

 

 

2,214

 

 

1.6

 

-

 

 

1,558

 

 

1.5

 

-

 

 

1,305

 

 

1.9

 

-

Total

 

 

4,707

 

 

3.3

 

100.0

 

 

3,560

 

 

3.5

 

100.0

 

 

2,615

 

 

3.8

 

100

(1)

The unallocated reserve consists of the allowances established on the portfolio classified in the “normal situation” category and includes additional reserves in excess of Argentine Central Bank minimum requirements.


ix) Deposits

The following table sets out the composition of our deposits as of December 31, 20182020 and 2017 and as of January 1, 2017.December 31, 2019.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

  As of December 31, 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

  2020   2019 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

  (in millions of Pesos) 

Deposits in pesos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

Checking Accounts

 

 

39,854

 

 

 

48,899

 

 

 

51,554

 

   105,028    91,984 

Savings Accounts

 

 

61,129

 

 

 

61,069

 

 

 

47,850

 

   182,972    80,995 

Time Deposits

 

 

89,205

 

 

 

78,140

 

 

 

79,112

 

   208,713    157,928 

Time Deposits UVA

 

 

1,985

 

 

 

889

 

 

 

153

 

   5,565    1,021 

Other Deposits (1)

 

 

1,273

 

 

 

1,308

 

 

 

2,781

 

   1,980    2,311 

Plus: Accrued Interest, Quotation Differences Adjustment

 

 

3,984

 

 

 

2,107

 

 

 

1,624

 

   5,877    6,845 
  

 

   

 

 

Total Deposits in pesos

 

 

197,430

 

 

 

192,412

 

 

 

183,074

 

   510,135    341,084 
  

 

   

 

 

Deposits in foreign currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

Savings Accounts

 

 

137,762

 

 

 

87,182

 

 

 

50,027

 

   182,972    160,464 

Time Deposits

 

 

24,064

 

 

 

16,163

 

 

 

12,356

 

   208,713    33,122 

Other Deposits (1)

 

 

793

 

 

 

587

 

 

 

31,606

 

   1,980    1,277 

Plus: Accrued Interest, Quotation Differences Adjustment

 

 

48

 

 

 

24

 

 

 

15

 

   5,877    86 
  

 

   

 

 

Total Deposits in foreign currency

 

 

162,667

 

 

 

103,956

 

 

 

94,004

 

   399,542    194,949 
  

 

   

 

 

Total Deposits

 

 

360,097

 

 

 

296,368

 

 

 

277,078

 

   909,677    536,033 
  

 

   

 

 

(1)

Includes other deposits originated by Decree No.616/05, reprogrammed deposits under judicial proceedings and other demand deposits.

In 2018,As of December 31, 2020, our consolidated deposits increased 22%26% as compared to December 31 2019, mainly as a result of a Ps.11,065Ps.101,977 million increase in time deposits in Pesospeso denominated savings accounts and a Ps.50,580Ps.50,785 million increase in foreign currency savings accounts.deposits in time deposits denominated in pesos. These increases were mainly due to deposits received by Banco Galicia.


In 2017, our consolidated deposits increased 7% mainly as a result of a Ps.13,219 million increase in deposits in saving accounts and a Ps.37,155 million increase in foreign currency savings accounts. These increases were mainly due to deposits received by Banco Galicia. For more information, see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” – A.“Operating Results”- “Funding”.

The following table provides a breakdown of our consolidated deposits by contractual term and currency of denomination as of December 31, 2018.2020.

 

 

December  31,

 

 

2018

 

  December 31, 2020 

 

Within 3 Months

 

 

After 3 Months but Within 3 Months

 

 

After 6 Months but Within 12 Months

 

 

1 year

 

 

After 1 but Within 5 years

 

 

Total

 

  Within 3
Months
       After 3
Months but
Within 3
Months
       After 6
Months but
Within 12
Months
       1 year       After 1 but
Within 5
years
       Total 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

  (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Deposits in pesos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                      

Savings Accounts

 

 

61,144

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

61,144

 

 

 

 

 

 

61,144

 

   180,178      —        —        180,178      —        180,178 

Checking Accounts

 

 

40,653

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,653

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,653

 

   108,279      —        —        108,279      —        108,279 

Time Deposits

 

 

85,919

 

 

 

2,445

 

 

 

1,873

 

 

 

90,237

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

90,260

 

   207,438      873      387      208,698      14      208,712 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Total deposits in pesos

 

 

187,716

 

 

 

2,445

 

 

 

1,873

 

 

 

192,034

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

192,057

 

   495,895      873      387      497,155      14      497,169 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Deposits in pesos + UVA adjustment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                        

Savings Accounts

 

 

543

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

543

 

 

 

543

 

   1,437      —        —        1,437      —        1,437 

Time Deposits

 

 

1,671

 

 

 

241

 

 

 

72

 

 

 

1,984

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1,985

 

   5,286      274      78      5,638      14      5,652 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Total deposits in pesos + UVA adjustment

 

 

2,214

 

 

 

241

 

 

 

72

 

 

 

2,527

 

 

 

544

 

 

 

2,528

 

   6,723      274      78      7,075      14      7,089 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Deposits in foreign currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                       —   

Savings Accounts

 

 

101,169

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101,169

 

 

 

 

 

 

101,169

 

   98,580      —        —        98,580      —        98,580 

Checking Accounts

 

 

37,433

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

37,433

 

 

 

 

 

 

37,433

 

   36,460      —        —        36,460      —        36,460 

Time Deposits

 

 

21,978

 

 

 

1,756

 

 

 

301

 

 

 

24,035

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

24,065

 

   27,128      2,023      1,915      31,066      63      31,129 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Total deposits in foreign currency

 

 

160,580

 

 

 

1,756

 

 

 

301

 

 

 

162,637

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

162,667

 

   162,168      2,023      1,915      166,106      63      166,169 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Total deposits

 

 

350,510

 

 

 

4,442

 

 

 

2,246

 

 

 

357,198

 

 

 

54

 

 

 

357,252

 

   664,786      3,170      2,380      670,336      91      670,427 
  

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

     

 

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

162,856

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

162,856

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

162,856

 

   280,195      —        —        280,195      —        280,195 

Checking Accounts

 

 

78,086

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78,086

 

 

 

 

 

 

78,086

 

   144,739      —        —        144,739      —        144,739 

Time Deposits

 

 

109,568

 

 

 

4,442

 

 

 

2,246

 

 

 

116,256

 

 

 

54

 

 

 

116,310

 

   239,852      3,170      2,380      245,402      91      245,493 

(1)

Only principal. ExcludesIncludes the UVA adjustment.

The chart above shows that the highest concentration of maturities for time deposits was in the period of up to 89 days, representing 94%97,7% of total time deposits. As of December 31, 2018,2020, the average term for the raising of non-adjusted Peso-denominated time deposits was 4541 days, for UVA-adjusted deposits the average term was 221195 days and for those in foreign currency the term was about 4354 days. Foreign currency-denominated deposits, equal to Ps.162, 667Ps.166,106 million, represented 46%24,8% of total deposits.

The table below sets forth such information for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

As of December 31,

2016

(in millions of Pesos)

Checking Accounts and Other Demand Deposits

27,973

Savings Accounts

53,779

Time Deposits

49,876

Other Deposits (1)

19,145

Plus: Accrued Interest, Quotation Differences and UVA Adjustment

915

Total Deposits

151,688

(1)

Includes among other, deposits originated by Decree No. 616/05, Reprogrammed Deposits under judicial proceedings and other demand deposits. In 2016, includes mainly deposits related to the Tax Amnesty Law.


The following table provides information about the maturity of our outstanding time deposits exceeding US$100,000, as of December 31, 2018.

December  31,

2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Deposits over US$100,000

Time Deposits

Within 30 Days

11,451

After 31 Days but Within 59 Days

13,978

After 60 Days but Within 89 Days

5,105

After 90 Days but Within 179 Days

4,762

After 180 Days but Within 365 Days

6,541

After 365 Days

1,305

Total Outstanding Time Deposits Exceeding US$100.000 (1)

43,142

(1)

Only principal.

Return on Equity and Assets

The following table presents certain selected financial information and ratios for the periods indicated.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

(Loss) / Income for the Year Attributable to GFG

 

 

(3,466

)

 

 

6,794

 

Total Assets

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

489,641

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to GFG

 

 

60,125

 

 

 

64,525

 

Net Income as a Percentage of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Assets

 

 

(0.61

)

 

 

1.39

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to GFG

 

 

(5.76

)

 

 

10.53

 

Declared Cash Dividends

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

1,617

 

Dividend Payout Ratio

 

 

(0.58

)

 

 

0.24

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to GFG as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

10.55

 

 

 

13.18

 

The table below sets forth such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine Banking GAAP.

 

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Net Income

 

 

6,018

 

 

 

4,338

 

Average Total Assets

 

 

184,395

 

 

 

122,684

 

Average Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

17,178

 

 

 

12,205

 

Shareholders’ Equity at End of the Period

 

 

20,353

 

 

 

14,485

 

Net Income as a Percentage of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average Total Assets

 

3.48

 

 

3.83

 

Average Shareholders’ Equity

 

35.03

 

 

35.54

 

Declared Cash Dividends

 

240

 

 

150

 

Dividend Payout Ratio

 

3.99

 

 

3.46

 

Average Shareholders’ Equity as a Percentage of Average Total Assets

 

9.32

 

 

9.95

 

Shareholders’ Equity at the End of the Period as a Percentage of Average Total Assets

 

11.04

 

 

11.81

 

Short-Term Borrowings

Our short-term borrowings include all of our borrowings (including repurchase agreement transactions, debt securities and notes) with a contractual maturity of less than one year, owed to foreign or domestic financial institutions or holders of notes.


 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Short-Term Borrowings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

29

 

 

 

22

 

 

 

24

 

Other Domestic Financial Institutions and International Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Lines from Domestic Financial Institutions

 

 

2,744

 

 

 

290

 

 

 

2,108

 

International Banks and Credit Agencies

 

 

7,523

 

 

 

6,101

 

 

 

3,808

 

Repurchase Transactions

 

 

1,943

 

 

 

1,671

 

 

 

3,033

 

Total short-term borrowings

 

 

12,239

 

 

 

8,084

 

 

 

8,973

 

As of December 31, 2018, our short-term borrowings consisted of (i) credit lines from the Argentine Central Bank, which represented 0.2% of our short-term borrowings; (ii) credit lines from domestic financial institutions (other than the Argentine Central Bank) and international banks, which represented 84% of our short term borrowings and repurchase agreements, which represented 16% of our short-term borrowings.

The table below shows such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine GAAP.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Short-Term Borrowings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

13

 

 

7

 

Other Banks and International Entities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Lines from Domestic Banks

 

 

1,609

 

 

553

 

Credit Lines from Foreign Banks

 

 

2,067

 

 

 

1,107

 

Notes

 

-

 

 

-

 

Repurchase

 

 

1,646

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

5,335

 

 

 

1,667

 

We also borrow funds under various credit arrangements with domestic and foreign banks and /or lending agencies, which is reflected in the following table:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

International Banks and Credit Agencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prefinancing of exports

 

 

5,274

 

 

 

5,651

 

 

 

3,799

 

Export and Import Operations

 

 

2,249

 

 

 

450

 

 

 

9

 

Total Banks and Credit Agencies

 

 

7,523

 

 

 

6,101

 

 

 

3,808

 

Domestic Financial Institutions

��

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Call

 

 

804

 

 

 

89

 

 

 

304

 

Tarjetas Regionales Credit Line

 

 

1,940

 

 

 

201

 

 

 

1,804

 

Total Domestic Financial Institutions

 

 

2,744

 

 

 

290

 

 

 

2,108

 

Total Domestic Financial Institutions and International Banks

 

 

10,267

 

 

 

6,391

 

 

 

5,916

 

The table below shows such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine GAAP.


 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Banks and International Entities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contractual Short-term Liabilities

 

-

 

 

-

 

Other Lines from Foreign Banks

 

 

2,067

 

 

 

1,107

 

Total Banks and International Entities

 

 

2,067

 

 

 

1,107

 

Domestic and Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contractual Short-term Liabilities

 

-

 

 

-

 

Other Lines from Credit from Domestic Banks

 

 

1,609

 

 

553

 

Total Domestic and Financial Institutions

 

 

1,609

 

 

553

 

Total

 

 

3,676

 

 

 

1,660

 

The following table sets forth the items listed below for our significant short-term borrowings for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and as of January 1, 2017:

the weighted-average interest rate at year-end,

the maximum balance recorded at the monthly closing dates of the periods,

the average balances for each period calculated on a daily basis, and

the weighted-average interest rate for each period.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of  January 1,

 

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

32

 

 

 

41

 

 

 

36

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

24

 

 

 

24

��

 

 

11

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

Credit Lines from Domestic Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

36.1

 

%

 

26.8

 

%

 

27

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

3,231

 

 

 

3,095

 

 

 

1,369

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

1,994

 

 

 

1,145

 

 

 

945

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

46.1

 

%

 

26.2

 

%

 

32

 

%

Credit Lines from Foreign Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

2.9

 

%

 

2.7

 

%

 

3

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

16,778

 

 

 

6,101

 

 

 

2,099

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

10,043

 

 

 

4,176

 

 

 

1,517

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

3

 

%

 

3

 

%

 

3

 

%

Repurchases with Domestic Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

50

 

%

 

27

 

%

 

3

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

953

 

 

 

8,197

 

 

 

1,646

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

403

 

 

 

1,438

 

 

 

317

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

27

 

%

 

26

 

%

 

28.9

 

%

Repurchases with Domestic Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

4

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

3,156

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

1,466

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

3

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

The table below shows such information for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, which was prepared in accordance with Argentine GAAP.


 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

-

 

%

 

-

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

35

 

 

 

39

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

11

 

 

 

6

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

-

 

%

 

-

 

%

Credit Lines from Domestic Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

26.5

 

%

 

29.1

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

 

1,609

 

 

 

 

1,282

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

 

1,005

 

 

 

757

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

31.4

 

%

 

26.6

 

%

Credit Lines from Foreign Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

2.6

 

%

 

3.5

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

 

2,083

 

 

 

 

1,579

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

 

1,429

 

 

 

974

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

3.0

 

%

 

2.9

 

%

Repurchases with Domestic Banks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

25.7

 

%

 

-

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

 

1,646

 

 

 

140

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

300

 

 

 

176

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

28.9

 

%

 

23.8

 

%

Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate at End of Period

 

 

-

 

%

 

-

 

%

Maximum Balance Recorded at the Monthly Closing Dates

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

1,024

 

 

Average Balances for Each Period

 

 

-

 

 

 

619

 

 

Weighted-average Interest Rate for the Period

 

 

-

 

%

 

25.8

 

%

x) Regulatory Capital

Grupo Financiero Galicia

Grupo Financiero Galicia and some of its subsidiaries are regulated by the Argentine General Corporations Law. Section 186 of the General Corporations Law establishes the minimum capital amount of a corporation at Ps.100,000.Law.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s capital adequacy is not regulated by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, however Grupo Financiero Galicia is required to comply with the minimum capital requirement established by the General Corporations Law. On October 8, 2012, through Decree No.1331/12, such amount was established as Ps.100,000.

Banco Galicia

With respect to regulatory capital, Banco Galicia must comply with the regulations set forth by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. These regulations are based on the Basel Committee methodology, which provides the minimum capital requirements for financial institutions to cover the different risks inherent to its business activity and assets,such as credit risk, generated both by exposure to the private sector and to the public sector; operational risk (generated by the losses resulting from the non-adjustment or failures of internal processes) and market risk (generated by positions in securities and in foreign currency).


Computable capital is divided as follows:

Computable regulatory capital is divided into Basic Shareholders’ Equity (Tier I Capital) and Supplementary Shareholders’ Equity (Tier II Capital). Deductible Items start to be mainly part of theitems generally fall within Basic Shareholders’ Equity.

Intangible assets and deferred tax asset credit balances should be deducted from the calculation of computable capital.

Results for thea given period are part of the Basic Shareholders’ Equity (Income: 100% of audited results, 50% of unaudited results; Losses: 100%).

Supplementary Shareholders’ Equity includes 100% of the allowance for the portfolio in normal situation (up to the limit of 1.25%) and for subordinated notes, with respect to which, as from each of the last five years of each issuance term, the computable amount shall be reduced by 20% of the face value issued.

The following percentages apply in determining minimum capital requirements:

Loans in Pesos to the Non-financial Public Sector: 0%.

Property, Plant and Equipment and Miscellaneous Assets: 8%.

Family Mortgage Loans: 35% over the 8%, if the amount does not exceed 75% of the asset value.

Retail Portfolio: 75% over 8%.

The capital required for credit risk is calculated based on the balances as of the last day of each month. Computable capital is computed for the same month of the minimum capital requirement.

Minimum capital requirements must be met by the Bank, not only on an individual basis, but also on a consolidated basis with its significant subsidiaries.

The following table sets forth the capital required in accordance with the Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations in force for each period indicated below.

 

 

December  31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

  December 31, 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

  2020   2019 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

  (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Minimum capital required (A)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

Allocated to Credit Risk

 

 

22,171

 

 

 

1,126

 

 

 

554

 

   42,458    29,149 

Allocated to Market Risk

 

 

969

 

 

 

2,655

 

 

 

2,008

 

   1,419    905 

Allocated to Operational Risk

 

 

4,023

 

 

 

18,195

 

 

 

12,453

 

   12,192    7,608 
  

 

   

 

 

Total minimum capital required (A)

 

 

27,163

 

 

 

21,976

 

 

 

15,015

 

   56,069    37,662 
  

 

   

 

 

Computable Capital (B)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

Tier I

 

 

36,584

 

 

 

6,582

 

 

 

5,245

 

   129,584    61,393 

Tier II

 

 

12,745

 

 

 

22,803

 

 

 

17,762

 

   27,477    19,392 
  

 

   

 

 

Total computable capital (B)

 

 

49,329

 

 

 

29,385

 

 

 

23,007

 

   157,061    80,785 

Excess over Required Capital (B)-(A)(1)

 

 

22,166

 

 

 

7,409

 

 

 

7,992

 

  

 

   

 

 

Excess over Required Capital (B)-(A)

   100,992    43,123 
  

 

   

 

 

Risk assets

 

 

325,853

 

 

 

221,472

 

 

 

144,822

 

   685,407    459,900 

Ratios (%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

Equity / Total assets

 

 

8.60

 

 

 

13.32

 

 

 

10.14

 

   15.76    13.07 

Excess / Minimum capital required

 

 

81.60

 

 

 

25.33

 

 

 

42.63

 

   180.12    114.50 

Total Capital Ratio(2)

 

 

15.14

 

 

 

10.30

 

 

 

12.26

 

Total Capital Ratio(1)

   22.92    17.57 

Tier I Capital Ratio

 

 

11.23

 

 

 

7.32

 

 

 

8.64

 

   18.91    13.35 

In accordance with Argentine Central Bank rules applicable at each date

(1)

Excess over required capital includes the 0.25% increase stemming from the additional requirement related to the Bank serving in the role of custodian of titles and representative of investments of the Fondo de Garantía y Sustentabilidad del Sistema Integrado Previsional Argentino.

(2)

Total computable capital / risk weighted assets credit, market and marketoperational risks.


As of December 31, 2018,2020, the Bank’s computable capital exceededamounted to Ps.157,061 million, Ps.100,992 million which was 180% higher than the Ps.56,069 million minimum capital requirement by Ps.22,166 million (or 81.60%). The minimum capital requirement was Ps.27,163 million for 2018.requirement. As of December 31, 2017, the Bank’s computable capital exceeded2019, this excess amounted to Ps.43,123 million which was 115% higher than the minimum capital requirement by Ps.4,608 million (or 25.33%).requirement.

TheAs of December 31, 2020, the minimum capital requirement increased by Ps.5,187 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to December 31, 2017, mainly due to an increase related to financing balances in an amount equal to Ps.21,045 million and operational risk in an amount equal to Ps.14,172 million.

Computable capital increased by Ps.19,944Ps.18,407 million as compared to December 31, 2017, due2019, mainly because the value of risk weighted assets are now being adjusted to inflation. Computable capital increased by Ps.76,276 million as of December 31, 2020 as compared to December 31, 2019, primarily as consequence of the increase in the results generated during the fiscal year by Banco Galicia and to an increase in the Banco Galicia’s shareholders’ equity, all of Ps.30,002 million in Tier I Common Capital, primarilythese as a result of the inflation adjustment to both values. Banco Galicia’s total capital increase consummated by Grupo Galicia and the increase in net income for the year, partially offset by deductionsratio was 22.92%, increasing 535 bps as of capital.December 31, 2020 as compared to 17.57% as of December 31, 2019.

Tier II Common Capital increased by Ps.10,058 million as a result of the impact of the exchange rate increase on the outstanding balance of subordinated notes issued in July 2016 for an aggregate principal amount of US$250 million and the increase in the allowance for loan losses on current loan portfolios.

Regional Credit Card CompaniesEcosistema NaranjaX

Since the Regional Credit Card Companies companies from Ecosistema NaranjaXare not financial institutions, their capital adequacy is not regulated by the Argentine Central Bank. The Regional Credit Card CompaniesBCRA. Tarjetas Regionales and its subsidiaries have to comply with the minimum capital requirement established by the Corporations Law, which was Ps.100,000.Ps.100,000 for 2020.

Naranja Digital is a financial institution class “C” and for that condition is regulated by the BCRA and has to comply with the minimum capital requirement establish by the BCRA.

Minimum Capital Requirements of Insurance Companies

The insurance companies controlled by Sudamericana must meet the minimum capital requirements set by General Resolution No.39,957 of the National Insurance Superintendency. This resolution requires insurance companies to maintain a minimum capital level equivalent to the highest of the amounts calculated as follows:

(a)

By line of insurance: this method establishes a fixed amount by line of insurance. For life insurance companies, it is Ps.9 million, increasing to Ps.12 million for companies that offer pension-linked life insurance. For providers of retirement insurance that do not offer pension-linked annuities, the requirement is Ps.30 million. For companies that offer property insurance that includes damage coverage (excluding those related to vehicles) the requirement is Ps.9 million (increasing to Ps.45 million for companies that offer all property and casualty products).

For vehicle insurance: Ps.80 million.

For motorcycle insurance: Ps.48 million.

Joint operation for vehicles and motorcycles insurance: Ps.96 million

Civil liability for public transportation vehicles / Labor insurance / retirement insurance: Ps.80 million

Civil and air navigation liability insurance / warranty and credit default insurances /general damage insurance / personal insurances including life insurance (individual and joint policies, which do not require a technical reserve), burial insurance, personal accident insurance, health insurance: Ps.24 million

Environmental insurance: Ps.16 million

Joint operation of Vehicles and motorcycles insurance, Civil and air navigation liability insurances, Warranty and credit default insurance and damage insurance: Ps.120 million

Burial insurance: Ps.12 million

Life insurance (Individual and Collective, which requires a technical reserve: Ps.24 million

(b)

By premiums and additional fees: to use this method, Sudamericana must calculate the sum of the premiums issued and additional fees earned in the last 12 months. Based on the total, Sudamericana must calculate 16% of such amount. Finally, it must adjust the total by the ratio of net paid claims to gross paid claims for the last 36 months. This ratio must not be at least 50%lower than minimum capital requirements required for a particular line of insurance as set forth above in (a).

(c)

By claims: to use this method, Sudamericana must calculate the sum of gross claims paid during the 36 months prior to the end of the period under analysis. To that amount, it must add the difference between the balance of unpaid claims as of the end of the period under analysis and the balance of unpaid claims as of the 36th month prior to the end of the period under analysis. The resulting figure must be divided by three. Then Sudamericana must calculate 23%. The resulting figure must be adjusted by the ratio of net paid claims to gross paid claims for the last 36 months. This ratio must be at least 50%.

(d)

For life insurance companies that offer policies with an investment component, the figures obtained in b) and c) must be increased by an amount equal to 4% of the technical reserves adjusted by the ratio of net technical reserves to gross technical reserves (at least 85%), plus 0.3% of at-risk capital adjusted by the ratio of retained at-risk capital to total at-risk capital (at least 50%).


The minimum required capital must then be compared to computable capital, defined as shareholders’ equity less non-computable assets. Non-computable assets consist mainly of deferred charges, pending capital contributions, proposed distributions and excess investments in authorized instruments.

As of December 31, 2018,2020, the computable capital of the companies controlled by Sudamericana exceeded the minimum requirement of Ps.656Ps.1,067 million by Ps.263Ps.167 million.

Sudamericana also owns Galicia Broker, a company dedicated to brokerage in different lines of insurance that is regulated by the guidelines of the Corporations Law, which provided for a minimum capital requirement of Ps.100,000.

B.5 Government Regulation

i) General

All companies operating in Argentina must be registered with the Argentine Public Registry of Commerce. In addition, any company with publicly issued equity or debt securities is subject to the rules and regulation of the CNV. Further, financial institutions,entities, such as Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia, are subject to Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations. As companies listedpublic issuers of securities in Argentina, Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia must comply

with the disclosure, reporting, governance and other rules applicable to such companies in the markets in which they are listed and those of regulators in the countries in which they are listed, including the Capital Markets Law (as amended by the Productive Financing Law No. 27,40027,440 and including Decree No. 471/2018), Law No.20,643, the Decrees No.659/1974 and No.2220/1980 (as amended by Decree No. 572/1996), and CNV’s General Resolution No.622/2013 (as amended and/or supplemented, the “CNV Rules”).

In their capacity as public issuers of securities, Grupo Financiero Galicia and Banco Galicia are subject to the aforementioned rules. Since Grupo Financiero Galicia has publicly listed American Depository Shares (or “ADSs”) in the United States, it is also subject to the reporting requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) for foreign private issuers and to the provisions applicable to foreign private issuers under the Sarbanes Oxley Act. See Item 9. “The Offer and Listing”.

Banco Galicia’s operating subsidiaries are also subject to the following laws: Law No.25,156, as amended, including Law No.27,442 (the Competition Defense Law or, in Spanish “Ley de Defensa de la Competencia”), the Emergency Decree No. 274/2019 that repeals the Fair Business Practice Law (No. 22,802) and Law No.24,240, as amended (thethe Consumer Protection Law or,No. 24,240, as amended (or, in Spanish “Ley“Ley de Protección del Consumidor”).

As a financial servicesservice holding company, we do not have a specific institution that regulates our activities. Our banking and insurance subsidiaries are regulated by different regulatory entities. The Argentine Central BankBCRA is the main regulatory and supervising entity for Banco Galicia.

The banking industry is highly regulated in Argentina. Banking activities in Argentina are regulated by Law No.21,526, as amended (the “FIL”), which places the supervision and control of the Argentine banking system in the hands of the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. The Argentine Central BankBCRA regulates all aspects of financial activity. See “Argentine Banking Regulation” below.

Banco Galicia and our insurance subsidiaries are subject to Law No.25,246 which was passed on April 13, 2000 (as amended, among others, by Laws No.26,087, 26,119, 26,683, 26,734, and 27,446 together to which we refer to as the Anti-Money Laundering Law), which provides for an anti-money laundering framework in Argentina, including Laws No.26,268 and 27,304, which amend Law No.25,246 to include activities associated with terrorism and Law No. 27,401, which provides for the criminal liability of corporate entities upon their direct or indirect execution of prohibited activities. Furthermore, the Anti-Money Laundering Law created the Financial Information Unit (Unidad de Información Financiera), which established an administrative criminal system, compliance monitoring and the ability to impose sanctions.


Sudamericana’s insurance subsidiaries are regulated by the National Insurance Superintendency and Laws No.17,418,No.17,418, as amended and modified by Law No.20,091.No.20,091. Galicia Broker is regulated by the National Insurance Superintendency, through Law No.22,400.No.22,400, as amended.

The Regional Credit Card CompaniesNaranja and the credit card activities of Banco Galicia are regulated by the Credit Card Law No.25,065,No. 25,065, as amended, including but not limited to Law No.27.444 (the “Credit Card Law”).amended. Both the Argentine Central BankBCRA and the UndersecretarySecretary of Domestic Trade have issued regulations to, among other things, enforce public disclosure of companies’ pricing (fees, interest rates, and advertising) in order to ensure consumer awareness of such pricing. See “Credit Cards Regulation”.

Net Investment is regulated by the Corporations Law, as previously noted, and is not regulated by any specific regulatory agency. Galicia Warrants is regulated by Law No.9,643 as amended.

On January 6, 2002, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No.25,561 (as amended and supplemented, the “Public Emergency Law” or in Spanish “Ley de Emergencia Pública”Pública), which, together with various decrees and Argentine Central BankBCRA rules, provided for the principal measures with which to manage the 2001-2002 financial crisis, including Asymmetric Pesification and eliminating the requirement that the Central Bank’sBCRA’s reserves in gold, foreign currency and foreign currency denominated debt be at all times equivalent to 100% of the monetary base, among others. The Argentine Government did not extend the term of the Public Emergency Law that was previously extended on an annual basis. OnHowever, on December 14, 2016, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No. 27,345, which extended the state of emergency on social matters until December 31, 2019. Additionally, on September 30th ,2019, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No. 27,519, which extends the state of national nutrition emergency until December 31, 2022, whereby the Government must ensure the nutrition of its population with state funds.

On December 23, 2019, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No.27,541 (the “Social Solidarity and Productive Reactivation Law” or, in Spanish “Ley de Solidaridad Social y Reactivación Productiva”), which declared yet again a public emergency in relation to certain economic, financial, fiscal, and social matters, among others. The goal of this law is to manage Argentina’s public debt and public spending in a sustainable manner. During 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic (COVID – 19), many of the provisions of the Social Solidarity and Productive Reactivation Law were amended in order to address the economic and social consequences on Argentine citizens of the Country’s strictly enforced quarantines (such as, for example, providing tax benefits to certain sectors especially affected by the COVID – 19 pandemic and the extension of the health emergency, among others).

On February 12, 2020, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No. 27,544 (the “Law on the Restoration of the Sustainability of Public Debt Issued under Foreign Law” or, in Spanish “Ley de Restauración de la Sostenibilidad de la Deuda Pública”), which granted the Argentine Executive Branch broad powers to negotiate and to restructure public debt issued currently held by the Government and governed by laws other than the laws of Argentina.

ii)Foreign Exchange Market

In January 2002, through the Public Emergency Law, Argentina declared a public emergency situation in respect of its social, economic, administrative, financial and foreign exchange matters and authorized the Argentine Executive Branch to establish a system to determine the foreign exchange rate between the Argentine Peso and foreign currencies and to issue foreign exchange-related rules and regulations.

Within this context, on February 8, 2002, through Decree No.260/No. 260/2002, as amended by Decree No. 27/2018, the Argentine Executive Branch established (i) a single and free-floating foreign exchange market (a “MULC”, or “Mercado Único y Libre de Cambios”) through which all foreign exchange transactions in a foreign currency must be conducted, and (ii) that foreign exchange transactions in a foreign currency must be conducted at the foreign exchange rate to be freely agreed upon among the contracting parties, subject to the requirements and regulations imposed by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA.

On June 9, 2005, through Decree No.616/2005, the Argentine Executive Branch mandated that inflows of funds into the MULC arising from foreign debt incurred by residents (subject to certain exceptions) and all inflows of funds of non-residents channeled through the MULC for certain concepts were required to be credited into a local account and maintained for a “Minimum Stay Period”, requiring a mandatory deposit for 30% of the amount of the transaction for a period of 365 calendar days. Such requirements were eliminated by the Macriformer administration.

As a result of the new policies, on December 28, 2015 the Argentine Central Bank issued Communication “A” 5861 and Communication “A” 5864 which specifically abrogated both Communication “A” 4864 and Communication “A” 4882. On December 29, 2015, the CNV issued Resolution No.651, which abrogated the prior CNV regulations that complemented the restrictions issued by Communication “A” 4864 and “A” 4882.

In February 2017, the former Ministry of Economy and Public Finance (Ex Ministerio de Hacienda y Finanzas Públicas)issued Resolution No.1/No. 1/2017, which reduced the “Minimum Stay Period” described above to zero days.

As of July 1, 2017, with the issuance of Communication “A” 6244, the foreign exchange rules and regulations described above were reversed. The mainIn the same sense, the Government issued Decree 27/2018 by which it modified the denomination of the “MULC”, or “Mercado Único y Libre de Cambios to “MLC” or “Mercado Libre de Cambios” (the “MLC”)

On September 1, 2019, the Government issued Decree No. 609/19 (as later amended by Decree No. 91/19 on December 28, 2019), setting forth certain controls and restrictions on the acquisition, sale, and transfer of foreign currency, applicable to both individual persons and legal entities in Argentina. This decree also enabled the BCRA to establish, through regulations, the necessary measures to avoid “practices and operations aimed at avoiding, through public titles or other instruments” the restrictions set forth by the decree. In furtherance of such decree, since its date of implementation the BCRA has adopted a series of measures that regulate the MLC, which are all included in the Amended and Restated Text on Foreign Exchange (the “FX Regulatory Framework”).

Inflow of Funds:

Export of goods, provision of services, and sales of non-financial, non-locally produced assets: Funds entering into Argentina from (i) the export of Argentine goods, (ii) the provisions which currently governof services to a non-resident by a resident and (iii) payments received from the sale of non-financial, non-locally produced assets are required to enter through the MLC, be converted into Pesos, and be deposited into a local bank account, all within specifically prescribed periods

Payments received from outstanding loans, payment of amounts earned from term deposits or payments received from the sale of any type of asset that is granted, set up or acquired after May 28, 2020: Furthermore, by means of Communication “A” 7030 (as amended), the BCRA set forth that, in order to grant their clients access to the MLC, financial entities must first request from such clients an affidavit stating, among others, that such client will agree to transfer into Argentina and convert into local currency through the MLC within five business days, any funds received abroad arising from payments received from outstanding loans, payments of amounts earned from term deposits held outside of Argentina or payments received from the sale of any type of asset (e.g. shares, securities, goods, etc.) outside of Argentina in case such loans, deposits or assets were granted, set up or acquired after May 28, 2020.

Offshore financial indebtedness: Regarding offshore financial debts, the Argentine borrower receiving the foreign funds must convert such funds into Argentine Pesos in order to be able to access the MLC in the future for the payment of principal and interest payments when due on the foreign debt.

Outflow of Funds:

General Requirements: By means of Communication “A” 7030 (as amended from time to time) effective as of May 28, 2020, the BCRA introduced additional controls, limitations, and restrictions on foreign exchange market,operations. In this sense, in addition to the specific requirements that a foreign exchange transaction must meet in order for the payee to access the MLC, this law set forth broad new requirements of general application to most foreign exchange transactions, with some minor exceptions. In particular, in order to grant their clients access to the MLC, Argentine financial entities must first request from their clients an affidavit stating that: (i) all of its foreign currency holdings in Argentina are deposited in local financial entities; (ii) at the beginning of the day on which the affidavit is provided, the client does not have more than US$100,000 as “available foreign liquid assets” unless it is allowed to have more based on certain exceptions; (iii) it agrees that it will transfer into Argentina and convert into local currency in the MLC within 5 business days, any funds received abroad arising from payments received on outstanding loans, amounts earned on term deposits, or amounts received from sales of any type of assets; in each case, if such loans, deposits or assets were granted, constituted or acquired after May 28, 2020; and (iv) it has not sold securities with settlement in foreign currency or transferred them to international depository agencies abroad during the prior 90 calendar days, and will not engage in such activity on the date of the affidavit and within the same period or within 90 days following the date thereof.

Additionally, through Communication “A” 7200, the BCRA created the “Registry on foreign exchange information of exporters and importers of goods”, in which certain import and export companies that are specifically included in the list published under Communication “C” 89476 must be registered no later than April 30, 2021 as a condition to access the MLC for the outflow of funds as of May 1, 2021.

Import of Goods. The FX Regulatory Framework establishes the possibility for Argentine residents to access the MLC in order to pay amounts that they owe for the import of goods. Two different scenarios are contemplated. First, in most cases and where the cases are specifically covered in the FX Regulatory Framework, financial entities may grant their clients access to the MLC in order to pay for the import of goods if such goods have already been registered with the customs office and so long as certain requirements set forth in the FX Regulatory Framework are met (cases that are not specifically covered in the FX Regulatory Framework require the BCRA’s prior approval and registration with the customs office is not sufficient). In addition various quantitative and other limitations for the payment of various imports of goods and repayment of the principal of debt incurred in order to pay for certain imports of goods were set under Communication “A” 7030, as amended from time to time (these limitations are set to expire on June 30. 2021 unless such deadline is extended). Second, in respect of payments for imports of goods whose customs registration is pending as well as for payments in advance of receipt of the imported good, payments upon demand against review of the shipping documents and for the cancellation of commercial guarantees for imports of goods granted by Communication “A” 6312,local financial entities, access to the MLC can still be achieved so long as certain requirements are summarized below:met. In addition, entities gaining access to the MLC in this manner must file supporting documentation proving they meet the requirements at the time that they make the payment to

the foreign supplier of the import. Further, if a payment is made in advance of actual receipt of the imported goods, the payor must file certain custom documents showing the actual import of the good within 90 days of the advance payments being made. Finally, entities may also grant their clients access to the MLC for the payment of interest payments on outstanding debts so long as the transaction is declared in the “Foreign assets and liability informative regime”.

The BCRA’s prior authorization is required for the payment of commercial debts when importing goods into the country or purchasing foreign goods (i.e. at least 3 business day in advance of the necessary authorization). Moreover, certain special regimes that are applicable to special products, or financings of purchase facilities are established (i.e., leasing agreements, companies responsible for the purchase of medicine for patients, local governments for infrastructure works, supplies and goods for certain industries, etc.).

Offshore Services. Financial entities may grant their clients access to the MLC for the payment of services provided that such provision of services was previously reported, if applicable, in the last presentation of the “Foreign assets and liability informative regime”. With certain exceptions, the BCRA’s prior authorization is required to make payments prior to their scheduled due date, or to make payments to offshore related companies. Financial entities may also grant access to the MLC for the making of interest payments on offshore debt as long as the transaction was reported in the “Foreign assets and liability informative regime”. Again, the BCRA’s prior authorization is required for early interest payments as described above.

Dividends and Earnings. No authorization from the BCRA is required to carry out foreign exchange transactions to pay dividends and earnings to “non-residents”, provided that the following requirements are met: (i) the dividends and earnings arise from closed and audited financial statements, (ii) the payment is made in accordance with the relevant corporate documents, (iii) the total amount of transfers for this reason made as of January 17, 2020 and onward, does not exceed 30% of the value of new contributions of foreign direct investment in resident companies, entered and settled through the MLC as of the mentioned date, (iv) access to the MLC for the payment of dividends cannot occur sooner than 30 calendar days following the settlement of the last contribution (v) the payor submits sufficient documentation that evidences the final capitalization of the contributions, and (vi) the payment obligation is reported to the BCRA through the “Foreign assets and liability informative regime”.

Offshore Financial Indebtedness. Regarding offshore financial indebtedness, financial entities may only grant access to the MLC when: (i) the funds disbursed as of September 1, 2019 entered Argentina through the MLC, were converted into argentine pesos, and deposited into a local bank account(s); (ii) the transaction has been reported, if applicable, before the BCRA pursuant to the “Foreign assets and liability informative regime”; and (iii) the payment is not made to an affiliated offshore company. Access to the Foreign Exchange Market


MLC by Argentine residents for the prepayment of debt (principal and interest) more than 3 business days to its maturity date for principal or payment date for interest requires the prior authorization of the BCRA. However, this prior approval will not be required in certain specific cases. In particular, in certain circumstances, an amount of the outstanding principal of indebtedness issued by Accessnon-Argentine entities may be prepaid in advance. Specifically, by means of Communication “A” 7106 dated September 15, 2020, the BCRA has established that Argentine residents that have to make debt payments on debt issued by non-Argentine companies (including foreign financial indebtedness granted by non-financial non-related third parties, foreign financial indebtedness that required for the operation of the company, or the issuance of bonds in a foreign country with the public registration of such bonds in Argentina) with payments scheduled to fall between October 15, 2020 and March 31, 2021, must file a refinancing plan with the BCRA whereby (i) only 40% of the principal shall be paid during such timeframe; and (ii) the remaining principal shall be refinanced with new indebtedness with a minimum average duration of two years. This plan must be submitted to the MULC is now available to all individuals and corporations for useBCRA within certain periods. In line with respect to incoming and outgoing funds to or from Argentina, irrespective of the individual’s or corporation’s domicile.Consequently, individuals and corporationsthis requirement, Argentine residents may access the MULC without limitationMLC to prepay the noted percentage of principal, subject to meeting certain criteria. The requirement to submit a refinancing plan to access the MLC does not apply to international organizations or related agencies or with official credit agencies or in respect of debt secured by such organizations or agencies and withoutwhen the needamount to request prior authorizationpay for the principal of these type of indebtedness does not exceed the equivalent to US$1 million per calendar month.

Furthermore, by means of Communication “A” 7230, dated February 25, 2020, the BCRA extended the obligation to submit the above described refinancing plan for payments with maturity dates between April 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021. Such refinancing plan will not be necessary when the payment does not exceed the equivalent of US$2 million per calendar month, and neither when the maturities represent: (i) indebtedness incurred

as of January 1, 2020 and the funds received from such incurrence have been transferred and sold in the Argentine Central BankMLC; (ii) indebtedness incurred as of January 1, 2020 in order to among other things,refinance principal amounts falling due after that date; and or (iii) the remaining portion of maturities already refinanced in accordance with the parameters of Comunication “A” 7106.

Collateral trusts. Collateral trusts established by Argentine resident entities with the purpose of guaranteeing principal and interest payments for their obligations have access to the MLC in order to make such payments, as long as it is verified that the debtor would have also had access to make such payments on its own behalf because of its compliance with the applicable regulations, and that the payment abroad by the collateral trust is the only available option set forth in the transaction documents. Collateral trusts are able to access to the MLC to either transfer or purchase of foreign currency to comply with guarantee deposits of this type of indebtedness, as long as some requirements are met. However, this possibility is provided up to the equivalent payable amount in the relevant contract or the “value to be paid at the next maturity date of services”.

Investment Instruments. The BCRA‘s prior authorization is required to access the MLC for the making of foreign investments, including the purchase of foreign currency for portfolio investments (“atesoramiento”) and the purchase of securities, (i) by legal entities, and non-Argentine residents (with certain exceptions -such as multilateral agencies, embassies, etc.-), for any amount; (ii) by individual residents, when the monthly sum of US$200 is exceeded; and (iii) for non- resident individual persons (for example, tourists), when the monthly sum of US$100 is exceeded.

Application of collections from exports of goods and services: By means of Communication “A” 7123, the BCRA ruled that collection in foreign currencies from exports of goods and services may be used for (i) payments of principal and interest on financial indebtedness granted by a non-Argentine entity with an average maturity of no less than one year; and (ii) repatriation of direct investments by non-residents in companies that are not controlled by local financial entities -to the extent that said repatriation occurs after the conclusion and implementation of a direct investment project and at least one year after the transfer and settling of the capital contribution in the FX Market.

For this purposes, the disbursed funds must have been (a) used to finance certain investment projects in Argentina that generate an increase in the production of goods that will be exported, and/or will enable the substitution of imports of goods; and/or will result in an increase in the transport capacity for the exportation of goods and services through the construction of infrastructure works in ports, airports and land terminals for international transport; and (b) transferred into Argentina and converted into local currency after October 2, 2020.

Prior BCRA approval will be required for those cases where these requirements are not fulfilled. However it will not be required (either for the payment of offshore financial indebtedness with a foreign debtcounterparty or for the prepaymentrepatriation of any debt, drawingdirect investment) when the funds received as of October 2, 2020 were transferred and converted into Argentine pesos through the MLC, and the repatriation takes place at least two years after such condition.

Furthermore, on April 7, 2021, Decree No. 234/2021 created an “Investment Promotion Regime for Exports”. This regime provides companies with the option of submitting an “Export Investment Project” for approval. The project must be for a direct investment in Argentina in a foreign credit facilities, making foreign investments, paying for imports of goods, paying for services abroad or entering into service contracts, making collectionscurrency, in an amount equal to at least US$100 million and payments between residents, making distributions or paying dividends abroad, and effecting the purchase or sale of non-performing financial assets.

Investments of residents abroad

Currently there are no restrictions, nor are prior authorizations required, for the purpose of making investments abroad. Residents (and non-residents) can freely access, without amount (or any other) limitations, the exchange marketit must be in order to make transfers abroadincrease the production for investments.

Investmentsthe exportation of non-residents and repatriationcertain goods. If approved, the company that submitted the “Export Investment Project” for approval is entitled to receive up to 20% of funds abroad

Since current regulations no longer distinguish between foreign exchange transactions that can be made by residents and by non-residents, the latter can also freely access the foreign exchange market. As such, non-residents may make investments in Argentina and may also repatriate such funds at any time and without requesting prior authorizationreceived from the Argentine Central Bank.

Financial Indebtedness

Currently there are no restrictions or deadlines forexport of goods that were part of the purposedirect investment project, subject to an annual cap of accessing-25% of the MULC to enter into or to repay financial loans provided by non-residents. There is no obligation to deposit in Argentina proceeds received from loans entered into outside of Argentina, not even as a condition to accessinggross amount initially cleared through the MULCFX Market in order to make payments on such loan.

finance the project. In addition, there is no longersuch amounts may be applied once a prescribed “Minimum Stay Period” during whichcalendar-year has elapsed since the direct investment was made. Once the company receives the above described amount of foreign current from the export of the noted goods, the company may use such funds - (i) for the payment of principal and interest on commercial liabilities or financial transactions abroad; (ii) for the payment of profits and dividends that correspond to closed and audited balance sheets; and/or (iii) for the repatriation of direct investments by non-residents. In the event that export proceeds are not applied immediately, such funds must be deposited in Argentina must remain in the country.local financial entities until its application. The BCRA adopted these measures through Communication “A” 7259, dated April 9, 2021.

Argentine Central Bank

iii)BCRA Reporting Regime

In light of the foregoing, the Argentine Central Bank’sThe BCRA’s reporting regime has been updated as described below. Effective December 31, 2017, Communication “A” 6401 broughtintroduced reporting requirements with respect to debt securities and external liabilities offor the financial and private non-financial sector and direct investments of companies in such sector under one regime for “Assetsthe “Foreign assets and External Liabilities”liability informative regime”. The reporting regime is divided into the following five subsections: (i) capital and mutual fund participations; (ii) non-negotiable debt instruments; (iii) negotiable debt instruments; (iv) financial derivatives; and (v) land, structures and real estate.

The completion and validation of the information corresponding to the foregoing must be done electronically through the Federal Public Revenue AdministrationAdministration’s website. Such information, must be reported within 180 calendar days of fiscal year end for annual statements, and within 45 calendar days as of fiscalthe first quarter of 2020, as follows: (i) at the end for quarterly statements.

Taking into accountof any calendar quarter, by all individuals and legal entities who have outstanding offshore financial indebtedness (or if cancelled during that period, when filing the above, as of December 31, 2017, an Argentine resident investor must comply with this reporting regime only if the value of its investments abroad reaches or exceeds the equivalent of US$1,000,000 (based on the net value of its total externalForeign assets and liabilities duringliability informative regime); and (ii) in an annual presentation, by those individuals or legal entities for whom the previous calendar year or the balance of holdings of external assets and liabilities at the end of the previous calendar year). If the value of such resident investor’s investments is less than the equivalent of US$1,000,000, compliance with such reporting regime is optional. Further, if the value of such resident investor’s investments abroadeach year reaches or exceeds the equivalent of US$1,000,000, but does not exceed the equivalent of US$50,000,000, the reporting regime must only be complied with on an annual basis.50 million.


iv)Foreign Exchange Criminal Regime

Exchange operations can only be carried out through the entities authorized for such purposes by the Argentine Central BankBCRA. As such, any exchangeoperation that does not comply with the provisions of the applicable regulations will be subject to the Law No. 19,359, as regulated by Decree 480/95, and BCRA regulations (“Foreign Exchange Criminal Regime”), pursuant to which the following constitute offenses: (i) any foreign exchange transaction not performed before an authorized institution; (ii) the completion of foreign exchange transactions without the applicable authorization; (iii) any misrepresentation related to foreign exchange transactions; (iv) the failure to make accurate representations or to complete the necessary procedures in cases where the actual transactions are different than those declared; (v) any foreign exchange transaction executed without fulfilling the conditions established by applicable regulations, regarding quantity, foreign currency exchange rate, dates, etc.; and (vi) any other omission or act performed in violation of the Foreign Exchange Criminal Regime.

Violations to the Foreign Exchange Criminal Regime which provides sanctions such as the imposition ofmay be subject to fines of up to ten times the amount of the operation in breach and imprisonment in certain instances. The Criminal Exchange Regime is regulated by Law No.19,359 and

B.6 Argentine Central Bank regulations.

These rules do not prevent the application of any other applicable law for the prevention of money laundering, terrorist financing and other illegal activities.

Compensation to Financial Institutions

For the Asymmetric Pesification and its Consequences

Decree No.214/02 provided for compensation to financial institutions, for (i) losses caused by the mandatory conversion into Pesos of most of their liabilities at the Ps.1.40 per US$1.00 exchange rate (which was greater than the Ps.1 per US$1.00 exchange rate established for the conversion into Pesos of their Foreign currency-denominated assets), through the delivery of a Peso-denominated Compensatory Bond issued by the Argentine government; and (ii) the currency mismatch left on financial institutions’ balance sheets after the compulsory pesification (conversion into pesos) of certain assets and liabilities, through the conversion of the abovementioned Peso-denominated Compensatory Bond into a Foreign currency-denominated Compensatory Bond, which was achieved by the purchase of a Foreign currency-denominated Hedge Bond. For such purpose, the Argentine government established the issuance of a Foreign currency-denominated bond bearing Libor and maturing in 2012 (Boden 2012 Bonds).

The compensation procedure applicable to Banco Galicia, under the terms of Decree No.214/02, was completed in April 2007.

For Differences Related to Amparo Claims

As a result of the provisions of Decree No.1,570/01, the Public Emergency Law, Decree No.214/02 and concurrent regulations, and as a result of the restrictions on cash withdrawals and of the issuance of measures that established the pesification and restructuring of foreign-currency deposits since December 2001, a significant number of claims have been filed against the Argentine government and/or financial institutions, formally challenging the emergency regulations and requesting prompt payment of deposits in their original currency. Most courts have declared the emergency regulations unconstitutional.

Through Communication “A” 3916, dated April 3, 2003, the Argentine Central Bank allowed for the recording of an intangible asset on account of the difference between the amount paid by financial institutions pursuant to legal actions, and the amount resulting from the conversion into Pesos of the balance of the foreign currency deposits reimbursed, at the exchange rate of 1.4 Pesos per Dollar (adjusted by the CER plus accrued interest as of the payment date). In addition, it established that the corresponding amount must be amortized in 60 monthly equal and consecutive installments beginning in April 2003.

On November 17, 2005, through Communication “A” 4439, the Argentine Central Bank established that, beginning in December 2005, from the date of such regulation forward, financial institutions providing new commercial loans with an average maturity of greater than two years could defer the losses related to the amortization of amparo claims. The maximum deferrable amount was 10% of a financial institution’s RPC or 50% of the new commercial loans. Likewise, financial institutions were not able to reduce the remainder of their commercial loan portfolio. This methodology was applied until December 2008, when the balances recorded as of that date began to be amortized in up to 36 monthly equal and consecutive installments.


With respect to judicial deposits that have been subject to pesification, the Argentine Central Bank established that, beginning in July 2007, financial institutions must establish provisions in an amount equal to the difference that results from comparing such deposits’ balances at each month’s end, as measured in their original currency, and the corresponding Peso balances actually recorded on their books. Such provision, established as of December 31, 2015 and charged to income, amounted to Ps.8 million in fiscal year 2016.

During fiscal year 2010, Banco Galicia amortized the total remaining balance of the deferred losses from amparo claims for Ps.281 million.

Banco Galicia has complied with Argentine Central Bank regulations concerning the amortization of amparo claims. However, Banco Galicia reserves the right to make claims in view of the negative effect on its financial condition caused by compliance with court orders, in excess of the provisions of the above-mentioned regulations. On December 30, 2003, Banco Galicia formally requested from the executive branch of the Government, with a copy of such request sent to the former Argentine Ministry of Economy and to the Argentine Central Bank, the payment of due compensation for the losses incurred in connection with Asymmetric Pesification.

In June 2014, through Resolution No.365, the former Ministry of the Economy and Public Finance rejected an administrative claim filed by Banco Galicia. Before the due date set for said action, the Bank’s Board of Directors decided not to pursue further legal action with respect to such claim.

Argentine Banking Regulation

The following is a summary of certain matters relating to the Argentine banking system, including provisions of Argentine law and regulations applicable to financial institutionsentities in Argentina. This summary is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all laws and regulations applicable to financial institutionsentities in Argentina.

i) General

Since 1977, banking activities in Argentina have been regulated by the Argentine Financial Institutions Law No. 21.526 (the “FIL”), which places the supervision and control of the Argentine banking system in the hands of the autonomous Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, the principal monetary and financial authority in Argentina that operates independently from the Argentine government. The Argentine Central BankBCRA enforces the FIL and grants authorization to banks to operate in Argentina. The FIL confers numerous powers to the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, including the ability to grant and revoke bank licenses, authorize the establishment of branches of Argentine banks outside of Argentina, approve bank mergers, capital increases and certain transfers of stock, set minimum capital, liquidity and solvency requirements and lending limits, grant certain credit facilities to financial institutionsentities in cases of temporary liquidity problems and to promulgate other regulations and to enforce the FIL. The Argentine Central BankBCRA has vested the Superintendency with most of the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s supervisory powers. Such entity is responsible for enforcing Argentina’s banking laws, establishing accounting and financial reporting requirements for the banking sector, monitoring and regulating the lending practices of financial institutionsentities and establishing rules for participation of financial institutionsentities in the foreign exchange marketMLC and the issuance of bonds and other securities, among other functions. In this section, unless otherwise stated, references to the Argentine Central BankBCRA should be understood to be references to the Argentine Central BankBCRA acting through the Superintendency. FIL grants the Argentine Central BankBCRA broad access to the accounting systems, books, correspondence, and other documents belonging to banking institutions. The Argentine Central BankBCRA regulates the supply of credit and monitors the liquidity, and generally supervises the operation, of the Argentine banking system.

Current regulations equally regulate Argentine and foreign-owned banks.


Principal Regulatory Changes since 2002

On January 6, 2002, the Argentine government enacted the Public Emergency Law, as amended and supplemented, to address the 2001-2002 economic crisis in its social, economic, administrative, financial and foreign exchange matters. The principal measures taken by the Argentine government during 2002, both through the enactment of the Public Emergency Law and a series of decrees and other regulations, include the following: (i) the ratification of the suspension of payments on most public debt, with the exception of debts owed to multilateral lending agencies; (ii) the repeal of sections of the Convertibility Law (Ley de Convertibilidad) that established, since 1991, a one to one parity between the Peso and the Dollar, the devaluation of the Peso, and an exchange rate fluctuation regime, which domestically resulted in a decrease in the value of the Peso against the Dollar of around 240% during 2002; (iii) the amplification of exchange controls and restrictions on transfers abroad, which measures began to be eased towards the end of 2002; (iv) the ratification and extension of the restrictions on cash withdrawals from bank deposits that were established in December 2001 (the “corralito”), and later lifted in December 2002; (v) Asymmetric Pesification, the specific details of which are as follows: (a) foreign currency-denominated debts of individuals and companies with financial institutions were converted into debt denominated in Pesos at an exchange rate of Ps.1.00 per US$1.00 (1:1), (b) foreign currency-denominated public sector debt to the financial sector were converted into Peso-denominated debt instruments at an exchange rate of Ps.1.40 per US$1.00 (1.40:1), and (c) foreign currency-denominated bank deposits were converted into Peso-denominated bank deposits at an exchange rate of Ps.1.40 per US$1.00 (1.40:1), while foreign regulated public sector debt held by banks and companies remained denominated in foreign currencies; (vi) the modification of the return on assets and cost of liabilities “pesified” at the rate of Ps.1.40 per US$1.00 through the establishment of maximum and minimum interest rates and capital adjustments in accordance with retail price or wage change indices; (vii) the extension of the maturities of Peso-denominated time deposits and deposits originally denominated in foreign currency, above a certain amount, which established a payment schedule with maturities in 2003 or 2005, depending on whether the deposits were originally made in Pesos or Dollars (the “corralón”); (viii) the voluntary exchange of corralito or corralón deposits for Argentine government bonds (through Decree No.739/03, dated April 1, 2003, the corralón was eliminated); (ix) the amendment of the charter of the Argentine Central Bank (see “General” above); and (x) the compensation to financial institutions, through bonds issued by the Argentine government for the losses caused by asymmetric pesification. The executive branch of the Argentine government and the Argentine Central Bank have provided a set of rules for determining the amount of compensation for losses related to asymmetric pesification, although certain financial entities claim that the compensation established by such rules is not adequate to cover the losses that they have experienced.

The application of the Public Emergency Law was extended on annual basis until November 4, 2015, when the Argentine Congress extended the validity of the Public Emergency Law until December 31, 2017. On December 14, 2016, the Argentine Congress enacted Law No. 27,345, which extended the state of emergency until December 31, 2019.

ii) Supervision

As the regulator of the Argentine financial system, the Argentine Central BankBCRA requires financial institutionsentities to submit information on a daily, monthly, quarterly, semiannual and annual basis. These reports, which include balance sheets and income statements, information relating to reserve funds, use of deposits, portfolio quality (including details on debtors and any established loan loss provisions) and other pertinent information, allow the Argentine Central BankBCRA to monitor financial institutionsentities financial condition and business practices.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA periodically carries out formal inspections of all banking institutions in order to monitor compliance by banks with legal and regulatory requirements and confirm the accuracy of the information provided to the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. If Argentine Central BankBCRA rules are breached, it may impose various sanctions depending on the magnitude of the infringement. These sanctions range from warning calls up to the imposition of fines, or even the revocation of the financial institution’s operating license. Moreover, non-compliance with certain rules may result in the obligatory presentation to the Argentine Central BankBCRA of specific adequacy or regularization plans. The Argentine Central BankBCRA must approve these plans in order for the financial institution to remain operational.


Financial institutions operating in Argentina have been subject to the supervision of the Argentine Central BankBCRA on a consolidated basis since 1994. Information regarding “Limitations on Types of Business”, “Capital Adequacy Requirements”, “Lending Limits”, and “Loan Classification System and Loan Loss Provisions” related to a bank’s loan portfolio is calculated on a consolidated basis. However, regulations relating to a bank’s deposits are not based on consolidated information, but on such bank’s deposits in Argentina (for example, liquidity requirements and contributions to the deposit insurance system).

Examination by the Argentine Central BankBCRA

The Argentine Central BankBCRA began to rate financial institutions based on the “CAMEL” quality rating system in 1994. Each letter of the CAMEL system corresponds to an area of the operations of each bank being rated, with: “C” standing for capital, “A” for assets, “M” for management, “E” for earnings, and “L” for liquidity. Each factor is evaluated and rated on a scale from one to five, with one being the highest rating an entity can receive. The Argentine Central BankBCRA modified the supervision system in September of 2000. The objectives and basic methodology of the new system, referred to as “CAMELBIG,” do not differ substantially from the CAMEL system. The components were redefined in order to evaluate business risks separately from management risks. The components used to rate the business risks are:are capital, assets, market, earnings, liquidity and business. The components to rate management risks are:are internal control and the quality of management. By combining the individual factors under evaluation, a combined index can be populated that represents the final rating for the financial institution.

After temporarily halting such examinations as a result of the 2001-2002 financial and economic crisis, the Argentine Central BankBCRA resumed the examination process, which remains in effect as of the date of this filing. In Banco Galicia’s case, the first examination after the 2001-2002 financial crisis was based on the informationMarch 2017, and currently there is an ongoing examination as of June 30, 2005. New examinations were conducted, the last one of which was based on information as of April 30, 2013.December 2019.

Regulatory Capital (Minimum Capital Requirements)

Financial entities are subject to the capital adequacy rules of the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, consequently Banco Galicia, as a commercial bank, must maintain a minimum capital amount measured as of each month’s closing. Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations establish that financial institutions legal capital should be equal to the greater value resulting from the comparison between the applicable basic requirement (corresponding to the type of entity) and the sum of those determined by credit and market risk, as well as operational risk.

The minimum basic capital requirement for a commercial bank located in the City of Buenos Aires, such as Banco Galicia, is a capital reserve of at least Ps.26 million. The minimum capital requirements related to credit risk, which are calculated according to a formula createdestablished by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, are designed to establish the minimum capital necessary to offset the risk that the counterparty does not comply with its obligation in a transaction related to the assets that are being reviewed. The minimum capital requirements related to market risks are designed to offset the

eventual losses generated by a change of market rates or of credit quality, which would affect the assets and liabilities of the bank. Such market risk includes (among other risks) liquidity risk and interest rate risk. Operational risk includes the possibility of incurring a failure or deficiency in losses as a result of external events or as a result of a failure or deficiency in internal processes, human error or internal systems.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the regulatory capital of commercial banks acting as custodians of securities representing investments of the Fondo de Garantía de Sustentabilidad del Sistema Integrado Previsional Argentino must be equal to or exceed the greater of Ps.400 million or an amount equivalent to 1% of the total book value of the securities in custody.

In order to verify compliance with the minimum capital requirements, the Argentine Central BankBCRA considers the computable regulatory capital (“RPC”) of a particular entity (i.e., capital that the entities actually have). Pursuant to the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations, a bank’s RPC is the sum of the minimum core capital (Tier I capital) and supplementary capital (Tier II capital), minus certain deductible concepts. The Argentine Central BankBCRA considered Basel III requirements in order to regulate the RPC (and listed the assets included in each Tier as well the deductible concepts in accordance with such rules).


According to the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations, any financial institutionentity operating with an RPC under the minimum capital requirements must: (i) pay-in the correspondent amount within the following two months from the month in which it fails to comply with the requirement, or (ii) submit to the Superintendency a regularization and reorganization plan within the following 30 calendar days counted as from the last day of the month in which it fails to comply with the requirement. The Superintendency may appoint a supervisor and impose restrictions on distribution of dividends, among other actions, when non-compliance with the RPC requirements occurs or any warning from the Superintendency is received.

In addition, any financial institutionentity operating under the daily integration of the minimum capital requirement related to market risk (when such failure is caused by the requirements established to guard against interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk or equity price risk), must pay-in the corresponding amount necessary to comply with the requirements and/or reduce its asset position until the applicable requirement is complied with, within a term of ten business days counted from the first failure to comply with the requirements. In case the non-compliance situation remains after such term has elapsed, the entity must submit to the Superintendency a regularization and reorganization plan within the following five days.

iii) Legal Reserve

The Argentine Central BankBCRA and FIL rules requires that every year banks allocate to a legal reserve a percentage of their net profits established by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, which currently amounts to 20% of their yearly income. Such reserve may only be used during periods in which such financial institution has incurred losses and has exhausted all other reserves. Distribution of dividends will not be allowed if the legal reserve is not met.

iv) Profit Distribution

In accordance with Communications “A” 5827 (as amended), “A” 6464 (as amended) and “A” 6304 (as amended),Profit distribution of financial institutions profit distribution (the concept underpursuant to which a payment of dividends is included) must be authorized by the Superintendency. Financial institutions may distribute profits without exceeding the limits set forth in the “Distribution of Profits” rules established by the BCRA. The amount to be distributed must not compromise the entity’s liquidity and solvency. The Superintendency is entitled to intervene to verify the correct application of the procedures and regulations with respect to dividends issuedapproved and to be distributed by the Argentine Central Bank.financial institutions. Nevertheless, as explained above, dividends to be paid in a foreign currency to international investors, may be subject to foreign exchange restrictions.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA sets rules for the conditions under which financial institutions can make distributions of profits. Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations require that 20% of a company’s profits, subject to certain adjustments, be allocated to legal reserves.

This requirement applies regardless of athe company’s ratio of legal reserves to capital stock.

In addition to the foregoing, Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations regarding profit distributions provide that profits can be distributed so long as a company’s results of operations are positive after deducting for requirerequired legal reserves, the difference between the carrying amount and the fair market value of public sector assets and/or debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central BankBCRA not valued at fair market price, and the amounts capitalized for legal proceedings related to deposits and any unrecorded adjustments required by external auditors or the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. Furthermore, companies must also comply with capital adequacy rules, which set forth minimum capital requirements and required regulatory capital.

Effective as of January 2016, all Argentine financial institutions are also required to maintain capital in an additional capital reserve equal to 3.5%2.5% of risk-weighted assets and 3.5% for financial institutions classified as systemically important, which is required tomust be comprised of only of Tier I Common Capital, net of deductible items. Profit distributions shallof financial institutions will not be restricted when a financial institution does not haveauthorized if failing to meet with the required computable regulatory capital as set forth above.

The prior authorization In certain cases, that margin may be modified by the BCRA, as established in the “Distribution of the Argentine Regulatory Agency of Financial and Foreign Exchange Institutions is not be required for profit distributions, unless a financial institution does not have the required computable regulatory capital. Such restriction shall remain in effect until March 31, 2020.Profits” rules.

Profits, if any, resulting from the first-time application of IFRS may not be distributed. Any such profits are required towill be appropriatedallocated to a special reserve recorded under equity, which may only be released for capitalization purposes, or to otherwise to offset potential losses.


Despite the above-mentioned existing limitations, in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the BCRA issued on March 19, 2020, Communication “A” 6939, which suspended the ability of Argentine financial institutions to distribute dividends until June 30, 2020, in order to maintain the lending capacity of the financial institutions. This suspension was later extended by Communication “A” 7035 until December 31, 2020, and then by Communication “A” 7181 until June 30, 2021 (with the possibility of future extensions).

v) Legal Reserve Requirements for Liquidity Purposes

The deposit amount minus the minimum cash requirement determines the “lending capacity” of a particular deposit.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA modifies the applicable minimum cash requirement from time to time depending on monetary policy considerations.

The then-applicable minimum cash requirement will be applied tois determined on the monthly averagebasis of the average daily balances of the assets, calculatedobligations: (i) recorded at the closeend of each business day, during the applicableperiod prior to their integration for Argentine Pesos; and (ii) at the end of each day during each calendar month, taken into account for the purpose of calculating “lending capacity”.foreign currency and securities.

The averages will be obtained by dividing the sum of the daily balances by the total amount of days of each month. For days in which no movement is recorded, the balance corresponding to the immediately preceding day. Compliance with minimum cash requirements must be made in the same debt currency and/or instrument that corresponds to the requirement (with certain exceptions), and might be completed through (i) checking accounts, denominated in Pesos, opened by financial entities in the Argentine Central Bank;BCRA; (ii) “Minimum Cash Accounts”, denominated in dollarsDollars or other foreign currencies, opened by financial entities in the Argentine Central Bank;BCRA; (iii) special guarantee accounts in favor of clearing houses and for coverage of credit cards, vouchers and ATM operations and for transfer settlement of immediate funds; (iv) non-bank financial entities checking accounts opened in commercial banks for the requirement of minimum cash integration; (v) special accounts opened in the Argentine Central BankBCRA linked for the provision of social security benefits in charge ofadministered by National Social Security Administration (“AdministracióAdministración Nacional de la Seguridad Social” or ANSES) and (vi) “sub-accounts“sub-accounts 60” which are accounts that contain a minimum amount of cash ofreceived from investments in public securities and debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, at market value.

According to Communication “A” 6341“Minimum Cash” rule of the BCRA (as modified and complemented), the percentages of minimum cash requirements applicable in accordance with Argentine Central Bank rules, are as follows:

Demand deposits:

Peso-denominated checking accounts and savings accounts: 44%45%.

Savings accounts denominated in foreign currency: 25%.

Fixed term deposits:

Peso-denominated: (i) up to 29 days, 38%32%; (ii) 30 to 59 days, 34%22%; (iii) 60 to 89 days, 9%4%; (iv) 90 to 179 days, 1% and (v) 180 days or more, 0%.

Foreign currency-denominated: (i) up to 29 days, 23%; (ii) 30 to 59 days, 17%; (iii) 60 to 89 days, 11%; (iv) 90 to 179 days, 5%; (v) 180 to 365 days, 2% and (vi) more than 365 days, 0%.

Fixed term deposits adjusted by UVA/UVI (by remaining maturity):

(i) up to 29 days, 7%; (ii) from 30 to 59 days, 5%; (iii) from 60 to 89 days, 3%; (iv) 90 days or more, days, 0%.


Deficiencies of minimum cash and daily integrationsPlease bear in pesos are subject to a fine equivalent to twicemind that the BADLAR rate of private banks for pesosabove-mentioned peso-denominated rates may vary depending on certain circumstances set forth by the BCRA (e.g., locality, term deposits informed for the last business day of relevant period (according to Communication “A” 5356 and modifications).

Deficiencies of minimum cash and daily integrations in foreign currency are subject to a fine equivalent to twice the private banks BADLAR rate in dollars or twice the 30-day LIBOR rate for operations in that currency, informed for the last business day of relevant period or last available, whichever is higher (according to Communication “A” 5356 and modifications)transactions arranged remotely).

As of December 31, 2017,2020, Banco Galicia was in compliance with its legal reserve requirements and continued to be in compliance as of the date of this annual report.

vi) Limitations on Types of Business

In accordance with the provisions of the FIL, commercial banks are authorized to carry out all activities and operations which are not strictly prohibited by law or by the Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations. PermittedPermitted activities include the capacity to: grant and receive loans; receive deposits from the general public in local and foreign currency; secure its customers’ debts; acquire, place and trade with shares and debt securities in the Argentine over-the-counter market (subject to prior approval of the CNV, if applicable); carry out operations in foreign currencies; act as trustee in financial trusts; and issue credit cards.

In order to calculate the legal reserves requirements for liquidity purposes described above, it is not necessary to deduct the capital stock allocated to foreign branches from a bank’s shareholders’ equity.

Pursuant to the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations, financial institutions are not allowed to hold more than a 12.5% interest (or more than a specific percentage of the financial institution’s adjusted shareholders’ equity) in the outstanding capital of a company which does not provide services complementary to those offered by financial institutions.institutions, as established in the “Complementary services of financial activities” rules. The Argentine Central BankBCRA determines which services are complementary to those provided by financial institutions. To date has been determined that such services mainly include those offered in connection with stock brokerage, the issuance of credit, debit or similar cards, financial intermediation in leasing and factoring transactions.

Non-banking financial institutions are not allowed to provide certain services and activities, such as opening checking accounts, among other activities.

vii) Capitalization of Debt Instruments

Communication “A” 6304 (as amended) of the Argentine Central BankBCRA provides that all regulations related to capital increases must be cash contributions. However, the regulation establishes that subject to the prior authorization of the Superintendency, the following instruments are allowed as capital contributions: (i) securities issued by the Argentine government, (ii) debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, and (iii) a financial institution’s deposits and other liabilities resulting from its financial brokerage activities, including subordinated obligations. With respect to instruments (i) and (ii), the contributions must be recorded at their market value. It is understood that an instrument has a market value when it is regularly listed on regulated local or foreign stock markets and traded on such markets in such amounts that the liquidation of such instruments does not significantly affect the listing price of such instruments. With respect to clause (iii) above, contributions must be recorded at their market value, as defined in

the previous sentence or, in the case of financial institutions that publicly offer their stock, at the price determined by the applicable regulatory authority. If the aforementioned conditions are not met, the instruments in question will not be contributable as capital.

Deposits and other liabilities resulting from a given financial institution’s financial brokerage activities, including subordinated obligations that are not permitted to be traded in local or foreign regulated secondary markets, will be allowed to be contributed as capital at their accounting value, pursuant to Argentine Central BankBCRA rules.


viii) Lending Limits

TheAccording to the “large exposures to credit risk” and “minimum capital for financial institutions” rules, the total equity stake andamount of all credit amounts, including collateral, thatrisk exposure values of a bank is allowed to grantfinancial entity to a customersingle counterparty or, where appropriate, a group of related counterparties, may not exceed at any time is based on the bank’s adjusted shareholders’ equity as oflimits established for level capital one (Tier 1) by the last day of the immediately preceding month and on the customer’s shareholders’ equity.BCRA.

In accordance with the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations, the exposure limit to a commercial bank shall not lendcounterpart or provide credit (“financial assistance”) in favorconnected counterpart group of nor hold shares in the capital stock of, a single unaffiliated customer (together with its affiliates) for amounts higher thannon-financial private sector will be 15% of the bank’s adjusted shareholders’ equity or 100% of the customer’s shareholders’ equity. Nevertheless, a bankBank’s level one capital. However, this limit may provide additional financial assistance to such customer up to a sum equivalent tobe increased by 10% of the bank’s adjusted shareholders’ equity, if the additional financial assistance isfor exposures that are secured by certain liquid assets, including government or private debt securities.with preferred guarantees.

The total amount of financial assistance a bank is authorized to provide to a borrower and its affiliates is also limited based on the borrower’s shareholders’ equity. The total amount of financial assistance granted to a borrower and its affiliates shall not be higher than, in the aggregate, 100% of such borrower’s shareholders’ equity, although such limit may be increased an additional 200% of the borrower’s shareholders’ equity if the sum does not exceed 2.5% of the bank’s adjusted shareholders’ equity.

Global exposure to the public sector (national, provincial and municipal public sector) shall not be higher than 75% of an institution’s adjusted shareholders’ equity. Additionally, Section 12 of Communication “A” 3911, as amended, establishes that the average monthly financial assistance to non-financial public sector, in the aggregate, shall not be higher than 35% of the bank’s total assets as of the end of the previous month.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA also regulates the level of “total financial exposure” (defined as financial assistance or credit plus equity participations) of a bank has to related parties. A party may be a “related party”. Until August 2013 by: a) control, when a related party was defined as bank’s affiliates and related individuals, “affiliate” meaning any entity over which a bank,human or legal person directly or indirectly hasexercises control is controlled by,over the bank or is under common control with, or any entity over which a bank has,controlled directly or indirectly significant influenceby the bank; or b) personal relationship, regarding individuals (including their families and any other entity which they control) who serve as directors, trustees, general managers, or managers with respect to such entity’s corporate decisions, and “related individuals” meaning bank’s directors, senior management, syndics and such persons’ direct relatives. On August 9, 2013, the Argentine Central Bank issued the Communication “A” 5472, through which the definition of related parties was modified and broadened to also include such individuals’ spouses and relatives.credit attributions.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA limits the level of total financial exposure that a bank can have outstanding to related parties, depending on the rating granted to each bank by the Superintendency. Banks rated 4 or 5 are forbidden to extend financial assistance to related parties. For banks ranked between 1 and 3, the financial assistance without guaranteesoffered to related parties (and in the casebased on a relationship of affiliates, only if the service provided by such affiliate iscontrol and without a guarantee, may not complementary toexceed 5% of the bank’s businesses) cannot exceed, together with any equity participation held by the bank in its affiliates, 5% of such bank’s RPC.level one capital. The bank may increase its financingthis limit to such related parties up to an amount equal to 10% of such bank’s RPC if the financial assistance is secured. As

Financial assistance to related parties based on a “personal relationship” have a 5% limit of January 2019, Tier I Capital replaced RPC asLevel 1 capital of the calculation standard.entity providing the financing (the limit is unique for all cases and includes operations with and without guarantees).

However, a bank may grant additional financial assistance to such related parties up to the following limits:

Individual maximum limits for customers over which a bank has control

a)

Individual maximum limits for customers over which a bank has control:

Domestic financial entitiesentities:

Financial institutions rated 1, 2 or 3, subject to consolidation with the lender and its controller or the borrower:

If the affiliate is a financial institution rated 1, 2 or 3, subject to consolidation with the lender or the borrower:amount of total financial exposure can reach 100% of a bank’s TIER 1, and 50% for additional financial assistance

If the receiving affiliate financial institution is rated 2, the amount of total financial exposure can reach 20% and an additional 105% can be included

If the affiliate is a financial institution rated 3, the amount of total financial exposure can reach 10%, and additional financial assistance can reach 40%

IfFinancial institutions that do not meet the affiliate is a financial institution rated 1,above conditions with the amount of total financial exposure can reach 100% of a bank’s RPC, and 50% for additional financial assistancelender or the borrower: 10%

Domestic companies with complementary services:

If the receiving affiliateDomestic companies with complementary services associated with brokerage activities, financial institution is rated 2, the amountbrokerage in leasing and factoring operations, and temporary acquisition of total financial exposure can reach 20% and an additional 105% can be includedshares in companies to facilitate their development in order to sell such shares afterwards

Controlling company rated 1: General assistance 100%

Controlling company rated 2: General assistance 10% / Additional assistance 90%

IfDomestic companies with complementary services related to the affiliate is a financial institution rated 3, the amountissuance of total financial exposure can reach 10%, and additional financial assistance can reach 40%credit cards, debit cards or other cards:

Controlling company rated 1: General assistance 100% / Additional assistance 50%


Controlling company rated 2: General assistance 20% / Additional assistance 105%

Controlling company rated 3: General assistance 10% / Additional assistance 40%

Financial institutionsDomestic companies with complementary services, not subject to consolidation with the lender or the borrower: 10%

Domestic companies with complementary services

Domestic companies with complementary services associated with brokerage activities, financial brokerage in leasing and factoring operations, and temporary acquisition of shares in companies to facilitate their development in order to sell such shares afterwards

 

Controlling company rated 1: General assistance 100%

Controlling company rated 2: General assistance 10% / Additional assistance 90%

Domestic companies with complementary services related to the issuance of credit cards, debit cards or other cards:

Controlling company rated 1: General assistance 100% / Additional assistance 50%

Controlling company rated 2: General assistance 20% / Additional assistance 105%

Controlling company rated 3: General assistance 10% / Additional assistance 40%

Domestic companies with complementary services, not subject to consolidation with the lender or the borrower: 10%

Foreign financial entities:

Investment grade 10%

No Investment grade: Unsecured 5%; with and without warrants 10%

Investment grade 10%Other counterparties related by control

No Investment grade: Unsecured 5%; Secured 10%, with and without warrants10%

Unsecured 5%; with and without warrants 10%

Individual maximum limits for customers over which there is a personal relationship

b)

Individual maximum limits for customers over which there is a personal relationship

Lender is ratedranked from 1 to 3: 5% of its RPCTIER 1

In addition, the aggregate amount of a bank’s total financial exposure to its related parties, except for the ones subject to individual maximum limits higher than 10% (complementary services companies), may not exceed 20% of such bank’s RPC.TIER 1.

Notwithstanding the limitations described above, financial assistancethe sum of computable exposure is also limited in order to prevent risk concentration. To that end, the total financial exposure independently of whether customers qualify as such bank’s related parties or not, in the case in which such exposure exceeds 10% of such bank’s RPC,TIER 1, may not exceed three times the bank’s RPCTIER 1 excluding total financial exposure to domestic financial institutions, or five times the bank’s RPC,TIER 1, including such exposure.

For a second gradesecond-grade financial institution (i.e., a financial institution that provides financial products to other banks and not to retail customers), the latter limit is ten times such financial institution’s RPC.TIER 1.

Banco Galicia has historically complied with such rules.


ix) Loan Classification System and Loan Loss Provisions

General

Banco Galicia is required to comply with the Argentine Central Bank regulations.InBCRA regulations. In 1994, the Argentine Central BankBCRA introduced the current loan classification system and the corresponding minimum loan-loss provision requirements applicable to loans and other types of credit (together, referred to as “loans”) to private sector borrowers.

The current loan classification system applies certain criteria to classify loans in a bank’s “consumer” portfolio, and another set of criteria to classify loans in its “commercial” portfolio. The classification system is independent of the currency in which the loan is denominated.

The loan classification criteria applied to loans in the consumer portfolio is based on objective guidelines related to the borrower’s credit score, legal status, and other information provided by credit rating agencies. However, if a borrower has defaulted on loans in the past or is non-current on obligations, a lower rating is assigned by the Bank. In the event of any discrepancy, the guidelines indicating the higher risk level should be considered.

For the purposes of the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations, consumer loans are defined as mortgage loans, pledge loans, credit card loans and other types of loans in installments granted to individuals. All other loans are considered commercial loans. In addition, in accordance with an option set forth in these regulations, Banco Galicia prospectively applies the consumer portfolio classification criteria to commercial loans of up to Ps.2.5Ps.72,64 million. This classification is based on the level of fulfillment and the situation thereof.

The main classification criterion for loans in the commercial portfolio is each borrower’s ability to pay, mainly in terms of such borrower’s future cash flows. If a customer has both commercial and consumer loans, all of these loans will be considered as a whole to determine eligibility for classification in the corresponding portfolio. Loans backed with preferred guarantees will be considered at 50% of their face value.

By applying the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s classification to commercial loans, banks must assess the following factors: the current and projected financial situation of the borrower, the customer’s exposure to currency risk, the customer’s managerial and operating background, the borrower’s ability to provide accurate and timely financial information, as well as the overall risk of the sector in which the borrower operates and the borrower’s relative position within that sector.

The Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s regulations also establish that a team independent from the departments responsible for credit origination must carry out a periodic review of the commercial portfolio. Banco Galicia’s Credit Division, which is independent from the business units that generate transactions, is responsible for these reviews.

The review must be carried out on each borrower with debt pending payment equal to the lesser of the following amounts: Ps.12.5Ps.72,64 million or 1% of the bank’s computable capital (the “RPC”) but, in any case, the review shall cover at least 20% of the total loan portfolio.. The frequency of the review of each borrower depends on the bank’s exposure to that borrower. The Argentine Central BankBCRA requires that the larger the exposure is, the more frequent the review should be. This review must be conducted every calendar quarter when credit exposure to that borrower is equal to or in excess of 5% of the bank’s RPC, or every six months when exposure equals or exceeds the lesser of the following amounts: Ps.12.5Ps.72.64 million or 1% of the bank’s RPC. In all cases, at least 50% of Banco Galicia’s commercial portfolio must be reviewed once every six months; and all other borrowers in Banco Galicia’s commercial portfolio must be reviewed during the fiscal year, so that the entire commercial portfolio is reviewed every fiscal year.

In addition, only one level of discrepancy is permitted between the classification assigned by a bank and the lowest classification assigned by at least two other banks whose combined credit to the borrower represents 40%

or more of the total credit of the borrower, considering all banks. If Banco Galicia’s classification was different by


more than one level from the lowest classification granted, Banco Galicia must immediately downgrade its classification of the debtor to the same classification level, or else within one classification level.

Loan Classification

The following tables contain the six loan classification categories corresponding to the different risk levels set forth by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. Banco Galicia’s total exposure to a private sector customer must be classified according to the riskier classification corresponding to any part of such exposure.

Commercial Portfolio

 

Loan Classification

Description

A. Normal Situation

The debtor is widely able to meet its financial obligations, demonstrating significant cash flows, a liquid financial situation, an adequate financial structure, a timely payment record, competent management, available information in a timely, accurate manner and satisfactory internal controls.

The debtor is in the upper 50% ofbelongs to a sector of economic activity that records an acceptable future trend with good prospects and the debtor is operating properly and has good prospects.competitive within such economic activity.

B. With Special Follow-up

Cash flow analysis reflects that the debt may be repaid even though it is possible that the customer’s future payment ability may deteriorate without a proper follow-up.

This category is divided into two subcategories:

B1. Under Observation;

B2. Under Negotiation or Refinancing Agreements.

C. With Problems

Cash flow analysis evidences problems to repay the debt, and therefore, if these problems are not solved, there may be some losses.

It also includes customers that maintain payment agreements resulting from judicial or extrajudicial agreements approved by the relevant insolvency court.

D. High Risk of Insolvency

Cash flow analysis evidences that repayment of the full debt is highly unlikely.

It also includes customers who have been sued by the creditor financial institution for the payment of amounts due or that have requested the preventive tender or concluded, and extrajudicial preventive agreement not yet approved by the relevant insolvency court.

E. Uncollectible

The amounts in this category are deemed total losses. Even though these assets may be recovered under certain future circumstances, inability to make payments is evident at the date of the analysis. It includes loans to insolvent or bankrupt borrowers.

F.  Uncollectible due to Technical Reasons

LoansAdditionally, this category includes loans to borrowers indicated by the Argentine Central BankBCRA to be in non-accrual status with financial institutions that have been liquidated or are being liquidated, or whose authorization to operate has been revoked. It also includes loans to foreign banks and other institutions that are not:

(i) classified as “normal”;

(ii)  subject to the supervision of the Argentine Central BankBCRA or other similar authority of the country of origin;

(iii)  classified as “investment grade” by any of the rating agencies admitted pursuant to Communication “A” 2729 of the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA.

Consumer Portfolio

 

Loan Classification

Description

A. Normal Situation

Loans with timely repayment or arrears not exceeding 31 days, both of principal and interest.

 

A customer classified in “Normal” situation that has been refinanced more than twice in the last twelve months in this category, must be re-classified in “Low-Risk”.

B. Low Risk

Occasional late payments, with a payment in arrears of more than 32 days and up to 90 days. A customer classified as “Normal”“Low Risk” having been refinanced may be recategorized within this category,to “Normal”, as long as he amortizes one principal installment (whether monthly or bimonthly) or repays 5% of principal.


C. Medium Risk

Some inability to make payments, with arrears of more than 91 days and up to 180 days. A customer classified as “Low“Medium Risk” having been refinanced may be

recategorized to “Low Risk” within this category, as long as he amortizes two principal installments (whether monthly or bimonthly) or repays 5% of principal.

D. High Risk

Judicial proceedings demanding payment have been initiated or arrears of more than 180 days and up to one year. A customer classified as “Medium“High Risk” having been refinanced may be recategorized to “Medium Risk” within this category, as long as he amortizes three principal installments (whether monthly or bimonthly) or repays 10% of principal.

E. Uncollectible

Loans to insolvent or bankrupt borrowers, or subject to judicial proceedings, with little or no possibility of collection, or with arrears in excess of one year. A customer classified as “Uncollectible” having been refinanced in this category, may be recategorized to “High Risk”, as long as he amortizes three principal installments (whether monthly or bimonthly) or repays 15% of the principal.

 

F.  Uncollectible due to Technical Reasons

LoansAdditionally, this category includes loans to borrowers who fall withinindicated by the conditions described above under “Commercial Portfolio-Uncollectible dueBCRA to Technical Reasons”.be in non-accrual status with financial institutions that have been liquidated or are being liquidated, or whose authorization to operate has been revoked.

On March 2020, the BCRA issued Communication “A” 6938, which provided for the addition of 60 days to the terms of arrears allowed for levels A, B and C for both the Commercial and Consumer Portfolio. These provisions were extended by complementary Communications until March 31, 2021.

x) Limitation on Fees and Other Substantial Elements

The Argentine Central BankBCRA has issued regulations limiting amounts that entities can charge as credit card fees, as well as fees that can be charged for financial services rendered by financial entities, credit card issuers (and other similar entities). Such regulations provide that such fees must be duly justified from a technical and economic point of view and must be in relation to the total financial costs incurred by any such financial institution. Further, such Laws provide that applicable interest rates must be set forth.

In addition, such regulations provide that in order to modify fees and other conditions established in agreements executed by and between financial entities and consumers, the following requirements must be met (i) reasons for fees increases must be established in the agreements and must be duly justified; (ii) modifications cannot change the core or fundamental provisions of the agreement; (iii) the consumer must be duly informed of any such changes; and (iv) for the imposition of new fees, the consumer’s consent must be obtained.

In the context of the COVID-19 outbreak, the BCRA issued Communication “A” 6945, as amended (the most recent amendment was under Communication “A” 7181), which suspended the ability of banks to charge fees for the use of automatic teller machines (“ATMs”) until March 31, 2021. Also, as part of the protective measures taken, the BCRA has imposed an injunction on the payment of loans granted to the private sector, as per

Communications “A” 6949 and “A” 6964, among other regulations, as amended from time to time. The BCRA has also mandated that (i) any payments due between April and March 2021 for loans previously granted by financial entities are deferred until the month following the loan’s maturity date; and (ii) credit card debts due between March 20 and April 30 of 2020 and not paid by the credit card holder will be automatically refinanced for at least a one-year term, pursuant to the following terms and conditions: (a) a 3-month grace period must be given to the debtor; (ii) the amount owed must be repaid in 9 equal and consecutive installments, and (iii) the maximum annual interest rate the creditor may charge is of 43%. The same condition applies to credit card debt due between September 1, and September 30, 2020, but with a maximum annual interest rate of 40%.

xi) Foreign Currency General Position

The Foreign Currency General Position of a financial institution (defined asPursuant to the assets and liabilities arising from financial intermediation and securities denominated in foreign currency) used to be limited by the Argentine Central Bank regulations. Currently, since the enactment of Communication “A” 6244FX Regulatory Framework, financial entities may determine their own Foreign Currency General Position.Position, with certain limitations.

xii) Deposit Insurance System

In 1995, Law No.24,485 and Decree No.540/95, as amended, created a mandatory deposit insurance system for bank deposits and delegated to the Argentine Central BankBCRA the organization and start-up of the deposit insurance system. The deposit insurance system was implemented through the creation of a fund named Fondo de Garantía de los Depósitos (“FGD”), which is administered by Seguros de Depósitos S.A. (“Sedesa”). The shareholders of Sedesa are the Argentine government, through the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, which holds at least one share, and a trust constituted by the financial institutions which participate in the fund.


The Argentine Central BankBCRA establishes the extent of participation by each institution in proportion to the resources contributed by each such institution to the FGD. Banks must contribute to the FGD on a monthly basis in an amount that is currently equal to 0.015% of the monthly average of daily balances of such institution’s deposits (both Peso- and foreign currency-denominated).

In addition, when the contributions to the FGD reach the greater of Ps.2 billion or 5.0% of total deposits, the Central Bank may suspend or reduce the monthly contributions and reinstate the same when contributions fall below such required level.

The deposit insurance system covers all Peso and foreign currency deposits held in demand deposit accounts, savings accounts and time deposits for an amount up to Ps.450,000Ps.1,500,000 per person, account and deposit. Certain deposits are not covered by the guarantee of the deposit insurance system, such as deposits received at rates higher than the reference rate in accordance with the limits established by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, deposits acquired by endorsement, and those made by persons related to the financial institution (as defined by Argentine Central BankBCRA regulations). The Argentine Executive Branch through Decree No.1127/98 established the maximum amount for this insurance system to demand deposits and time deposits denominated either in Pesos and/or in foreign currency. Such limit was set at Ps.1,000 as of March 1, 2019.

The guarantee provided by the deposit insurance system must be made effective within 30 days from the revocation of the license of a financial institution, subject to the outcome of the exercise by depositors of their priority rights described under “—Priority Rights of Depositors” below. The Argentine Central BankBCRA may modify, at any time, and with general scope, the amount of the mandatory deposit guarantee insurance.

Decree No.1292/96 enhanced Sedesa’s functions by allowing it to provide equity capital or make loans to Argentine financial institutions experiencing difficulties and to institutions that buy such financial institutions or their deposits. As a result of such decree, Sedesa has the flexibility to intervene in the restructuring of a financial institution experiencing difficulties prior to bankruptcy.

Debt securities issued by banks are not covered by the deposit insurance system.

xiii) Priority Rights of Depositors

According to section 49(e) of the FIL, in the event of a judicial liquidation or the bankruptcy of a financial entity, the holders of deposits in Pesos and foreign currency benefit from a general priority right to obtain repayment of their deposits up to the amount set forth below, with priority over all other creditors, with the exception of the following: (i) deposits secured by a mortgage or pledge, (ii) rediscounts and overdrafts provided to financial entities by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, according to section 17 subsections (b), (c) and (f) of the Argentine Central BankBCRA Charter, (iii) credits provided by the Banking Liquidity Fund, which was created by Decree No.32, dated December 26, 2001, secured by a mortgage and pledge and (iv) certain labor credits, including accrued interest until the date of their total repayment.

The holders of the following deposits are entitled to the general preferential right established by the FIL (following this order of preference):

deposits of individuals or entities up to Ps.50,000, or the equivalent thereof in foreign currency, with only one person per deposit being able to use this preference. For the determination of this preference, all deposits of the same person registered by the entity are computed;

deposits in excess of Ps.50,000, or the equivalent thereof in foreign currency, referred to above;

liabilities originated on commercial credit lines provided to the financial entity, which are directly related to international trade.


According to the FIL, the preferences set forth in previous paragraphs (i) and (ii) above are not applicable to deposits held by persons who are affiliates of the financial entity, either directly or indirectly as determined by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA.

In addition, pursuant to Section 53 of the FIL, the Argentine Central BankBCRA has an absolute priority over all other creditors of the entity, except as provided by the FIL.

xiv) Deposit and Loans in Housing Units

In order to facilitate access to mortgage loans, through Communication “A” 5945, dated as of April 8, 2016, and complementary regulations, the Argentine Central BankBCRA established a new type of loan denominated in housing unitsAcquisition Value Units (Unidad de Valor Adquisitivo or “UVAs”). The value of such housing units will be updated using the Reference Stabilization Coefficient. The initial value of the UVA was Ps.46.86, representing the cost of construction of one thousandth square meter of housingPs.47.16, and as of December 31, 2018.2020, it was Ps.64.32.

xv) Financing Loans for Economic Development

The Argentine Central Bank hasBCRA enacted several communications, by means of which it implemented several policies in order to promote economic development and productivity in Argentina, pursuantArgentina. As from March 1, 2020, the required minimum cash to which certainbe held by financial institutions was reduced in an amount equivalent to 30% of the sum of outstanding financing granted in local currency to small and medium companies (PyME), provided such financing is granted at a maximum annual interest rate of (i) 40% until February 16, 2020, and (ii) 35% February 17, 2020 onwards.

The required minimum cash to be held by financial institutions might also be reduced in the following cases:

an amount equivalent to 35 % of the sum of credit card financings granted in local currency under the program “Ahora 12” (a government program that allows users to make payments in 12 monthly installments) until September 30, 2019, and an amount equivalent to 50% for financings granted under such program on and after October 1, 2020. (Communication “A” 6916, as amended from time to time);

an amount equivalent to 40% of the amount of a financing provided that is denominated in Argentine pesos and granted with an annual nominal interest rate of up to 24% for: (i) small and medium companies, where at least 50% of such amount is used for working capital lines; (ii) providers of human health services within the framework of the declared health emergency in Argentina, provided that the funds are requireddestined to the purchase of medical supplies and equipment; and (iii) non-small and medium companies, to the extent that the funds are destined to the purchase of machinery and equipment produced by local medium and small companies. This amount may include financing granted to other financial institutions and non-financial credit providers where within 3 business days from the date on which they receive the assistance, those entities allocate a certain percentage ofthe funds for specific investments, such as providingto grant financing to SMEssmall and investment projects. The Argetine Central Bank established newmediums companies, among other requirements with respect(Communication “A” 6937, as amended from time to time);

an amount that is the equivalent of: (i) 60% of the sum of the “Creditos a tasa cero” (i.e. zero rates loan) , “Créditos a tasa subsidiada para empresas” (i.e. subsidized rate loans for companies) and “Créditos a tasa cero cultura” (i.e. zero rate culture loans) agreed under Decree No. 332/2020 (as amended from time to time) and disbursed until November 5, 2020; (ii) 24% of the “Créditos a tasa subsidiada para empresas” disbursed as from November 6, 2020 at an annual nominal rate of 27%; and (iii) 7% of the “Créditos a tasa subsidiada para empresas” disbursed as from November 6, 2020 at an annual nominal rate of 33%. (Communication “A” 6993, as amended from time to time);

an amount equivalent to 40% of a financing provided that is denominated in Argentine pesos to small and medium companies and that are granted at an annual nominal interest rate of up to 24%, measured as a monthly average of daily balances of the previous month, provided that such requirements for 2018companies are not reported in the “Central of debtors of the financial system” of the BCRA (Communication “A” 7006, as amended from time to time);

an amount equivalent to 14 % of a financing foreseen under section 4.1. of Communication “A” 6352, dated November 3, 2017.7161 for the “Financing line for productive investment of small and medium companies” that are provided at an annual nominal interest rate of up to 30 %, and that are measured on a monthly average of daily balances of the previous month (Communication “A” 7161). In this regard, by means of Communication “A” 7240, the BCRA established the extension of the term of such Financing line for productive investment of small and medium companies’ program.

xvi) Financial Institutions with Economic Difficulties

The FIL establishes that financial institutions, including commercial banks such as Banco Galicia, which evidence a deficiency in theirdo not meet certain minimum cash reserves,reserve requirements , have not complied with certain required technical standards, including minimum capital requirements, or whose solvency or liquidity is deemed to be impaired by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, must submit a restructuring plan to the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. Such restructuring plan must be presented to the Argentine Central BankBCRA on the date specified by the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, which should not be later than 30 calendar days from the date on which the request is made by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. In order to facilitate the implementation of a restructuring plan, the Argentine Central BankBCRA is authorized to provide a temporary exemption from compliance with technical regulations and/or the payment of charges and fines that arise from such non-compliance.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA may also, in relation to a restructuring plan presented by a financial institution, require such financial institution to provide guarantees or limit the distribution of profits, and appoint a supervisor, to oversee such financial institutions’ management, with the power to veto decisions taken by the financial institution’s corporate authorities.

In addition, the Argentine Central Bank’sBCRA’s charter authorizes the Superintendency, subject only to the prior approval of the president of the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, to suspend for up to 30 days, in whole or in part, the operations of a financial institution if its liquidity or solvency have been adversely affected. Notice of this decision must be given to the board of directors of the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. If at the end of such suspension period the Superintendency considers renewal necessary, such renewal can only be authorized by the board of directors of the Argentine Central BankBCRA for an additional period not to exceed 90 days. During the suspension period: (i) there is an automatic stay of claims, enforcement actions and precautionary measures; (ii) any commitment increasing the financial institution’s liabilities is void; and (iii) acceleration of indebtedness and interest accrual is suspended.

If, in the judgment of the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, a financial institution is in a situation which, under the FIL, would authorize the Argentine Central BankBCRA to revoke the financial institution’s license to operate as such, the Argentine Central BankBCRA may, prior to considering such revocation, order a variety of measures, including (i) taking steps to reduce, increase or sell the financial institution’s capital; (ii) revoking the approval granted to the shareholders of the financial institution to own an interest therein, giving a term for the transfer of such shares; (iii) excluding and transferring assets and liabilities; (iv) constituting trusts with part or all the financial institution’s assets; (v) granting of temporary exemptions to comply with technical regulations and/or pay charges and fines arising from such defective compliance; or (vi) appointing a bankruptcy trustee and removing statutory authorities.


Furthermore, any actions authorized, commissioned or decided by the Argentine Central BankBCRA under Section 35 of the FIL involving the transfer of assets and liabilities, or complementing such transfers, or that are necessary to execute the restructuring of a financial institution, as well as those related to the reduction, increase or sale of equity, are not subject to any court authorization and cannot be deemed inefficient in respect of the creditors of the financial institution which was the owner of the excluded assets, even though its insolvency preceded any such actions.

xvii) Dissolution and Liquidation of Financial Institutions

The Argentine Central BankBCRA must be notified of any decision to dissolve a financial institution pursuant to the FIL. The Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, in turn, must then notify a court of competent jurisdiction, which will determine who will liquidate the entity: the corporate authorities (extrajudicial liquidation) or an appointed independent liquidator (judicial liquidation). This determination is based on whether or not sufficient assurances exist regarding the ability of such corporate authorities to carry out the liquidation properly.

Pursuant to the FIL, the Argentine Central BankBCRA no longer acts as liquidator of financial institutions. However, when a restructuring plan has failed or is not considered viable, local and regulatory violations exist, or substantial changes have occurred in the financial institution’s condition since the original authorization was granted, the Argentine Central BankBCRA may decide to revoke the license of the financial institution to operate as such. In this case, the law allows judicial or extrajudicial liquidation as in the case of voluntary liquidation described in the preceding paragraph.

The bankruptcy of a financial institution cannot be adjudicated until the license is revoked by the Argentine Central Bank.BCRA. No creditor, with the exception of the Argentine Central Bank,BCRA, may request the bankruptcy of the former financial institution before 60 calendar days have elapsed since the revocation of its license.

B.7 Credit Cards Regulation

The Credit Cards Law establishes the general framework for credit card activities. Among other regulations, this law:

sets a 2.35%2.00% cap on the rate a credit card company can charge merchants for processing customer card holders’ transactions with such merchants, calculated as a percentage of the customers’ purchases. With respect to debit cards, the cap is set at 1.1%1.0% and the amounts relating to the customers’ purchases should be processed in a maximum of three business days;

establishes that credit card companies must provide the Argentine Central BankBCRA with the information on their loan portfolio that such entity requires; and

sets a cap on the interest rate a credit card company can charge a card holder, which cannot exceed the average interest rate charged by the issuer on personal loans by more than 25%; for non-bank issuers, such amount cannot exceed the financial system’s average interest rate on personal loans (published by the Argentine Central Bank)BCRA) by more than 25%.

The Argentine Central BankBCRA has issued regulations to enforce public disclosure of companies’ pricing (fees and interest rates) to ensure consumer awareness of such pricing.Inpricing. In addition, during 2014 the Argentine Central BankBCRA issued a series of regulations in order to establish caps on interest rates on personal loans, pledge loans and credit card loans, as well as to establish a requirement for an authorization to increase fees. Through its Communication “A” 5853, dated December 17, 2015, the Argentine Central BankBCRA rescinded regulations related to limits on interest rates in respect of lending transactions.

B.8 Concealment and Laundering of Assets of a Criminal Origin

Law No.25,246 (as amended in July 2011 by Law No.26,683) incorporates money laundering as a crime under the Argentine Criminal Code. Additionally, with the goal of preventing money laundering, the UIF was created under the jurisdiction of the Argentine Ministry of Justice, Security and Human Rights. As a result of such modification, money laundering is now classified as a separate offense.


In addition to the above, Law No.26,683 punishessanctions “self-laundering”, which punishessanctions money laundering tied to a crime the individual in question committed his or herself. It also includes certain tax offenses described in Article 303 of the Argentine Penal Code as punishable laundering behavior. The new standard falls under Article 303 of the Argentine Penal Code in the chapter titled “Crimes against economic and financial order”.

The minimum and maximum of the criminal scale will be doubled when (i) the foregoing acts were crimes that are particularly serious, meaning those crimes with a punishment that is greater than three years of imprisonment; (ii) the perpetrator committed the crime for profit; and (iii) the perpetrator regularly performs concealment activities.

The criminal scale can only be increased once, even when more than one of the above-mentioned acts occurs. In such case, the court may take into consideration the multiple acts when determining the original punishment.

The “Committee for the Control and Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorist Activities” was formed in 2005 and is responsible for establishing and maintaining the general guidelines related to the Bank’s strategy to control and prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism. For more information, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Functions of the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia”.

Banco Galicia has also appointed two directors to fulfill the roles of Compliance Officer and Substitute Compliance Officer. In addition, a specialized management unit was created in this area that is responsible for the execution of the policies approved by the committee and for the monitoring of the control systems and procedures to ensure that they are adequate.

Law No.26,734 enacted on December 22, 2011, incorporated terrorism financing and the financing of terrorism as an aggravating circumstance to all criminal conduct in the Argentine Criminal Code.

Such law punishes any individual who directly or indirectly collects or provides goods or money with the intention of being used, or knowing that they will be used, in whole or in part (i) to finance a crime with the purpose established in Section 41.5; (ii) for an organization who commits or attempts to commit crimes with the purpose established in Section 41.5; and (iii) for a person who commits or attempts to commit or participates in any way in committing crimes with the purpose established in Section 41.5.

The new legislation also punishes terrorism as an aggravating factor in other punishable crimes when any such offense was committed in order to terrorize the population.

The Bank has implemented measures to combat the use of the international financial system by criminal organizations. The Bank has policies, procedures and control structures in place to monitor operations based on client profiles and risk assessments based on the information and documentation related to the economic, patrimonial and financial situation of each client to detect clients that could be considered unusual, and eventual reporting to the UIF as appropriate. The Asset Laundering Prevention Management program is charged with the implementation of such control and prevention procedures, as well as communication of such procedures and measures within the Bank, drafting of compliance manuals and employee training. Such management program is also periodically reviewed by senior management.

The Bank has appointed a Director as Compliance Officer, in accordance with Resolution 30/2017 of the UIF, who is responsible for ensuring the observance and implementation of procedures and obligations in the matter. The Compliance Officer contributes to the prevention and mitigation of the risks of criminal transactions and is involved in the establishment of internal policies and measures to monitor and prevent the same.


C. OrganizationalOrganizational Structure

The following table illustrates our organizational structure as of December 31, 2018.2020. Percentages indicate the ownership interests held by each entity.

 

LOGO

(*)

The percentage of total votes is 54.1% .

(**)

IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A. its incorporated in Uruguay while IGAM LLC its registered in the state of Delaware, United States of America.


D. Property, PlantsPlants and Equipment

The following are our main property assets, as of December 31, 2018:2020:

 

Property

Address

Square meters (approx)


(approx.)

Main uses

Grupo Financiero Galicia

Rented

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 430, 25th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina

89

568

Administrative activities

Banco Galicia

Owned

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 407, Buenos Aires, Argentina

18,815

Administrative activities

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 430, Buenos Aires, Argentina

41,547

Administrative activities

Corrientes 6287, Buenos Aires, Argentina

34,000

Administrative activities

Tarjeta Naranja

Ecosistema NaranjaX

Owned

Sucre 152, 154 and 541, Córdoba, Argentina

6,300

Administrative activities

La Tablada 451, Humberto Primo 450 y 454, Córdoba, Argentina

14,080

Administrative activities

Jujuy 542, Córdoba, Argentina

853

853

Administrative activities

Ruta Nacional 36, km. 8, Córdoba, Argentina

7,715

Storage

Río Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

309

309

Administrative and commercial activities

San Jerónimo 2348 and 2350, Santa Fe, Argentina

1,475

Administrative and commercial activities

Rented

Sucre 145/151, La Rioja 359, 364 and 375, Córdoba, Argentina

4,450

3,564

Administrative activities and printing center

Av. Corrientes 3135, CABA, Argentina

1,271

Administrative activities

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 430, 19th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina173Administrative activities
Galicia Administradora de Fondos

Rented

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 430, 22nd floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina220Administrative activities
Galicia Warrants

Owned

Tte. Gral. Juan D. Perón 456, 6th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina

118

118

Administrative activities

Alsina 3396/3510, San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina

12,800Storage (Investment Property)
Galicia Seguros

Owned

Maipú 241, Buenos Aires, Argentina

12,800

215,628

Storage

Administrative activities
Inviu

Rented

Alto Verde, Chicligasta, Tucumán,Corrientes 6287, Torre Leiva, 7th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina

2,000

926

Storage

Administrative activities
Galicia Securities

Rented

Ruta Nº 301- Acceso Famaillá, TucumáTte. Gral. Juan D. Perón Argentina

3,150

Storage

Galicia Seguros

Owned

Maipú 241,430, 22nd floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina

215,628

28

Administrative activities

As of December 31, 2018,2020, our distribution network consisted of:

Banco Galicia: 325326 branches, located throughout Argentina’s 23 provinces, 148149 of which were owned and 177 of which were leased by Banco Galicia.

Tarjeta Naranja: 187180 branches and 5120 points of sale, located in 21 of the 23 Argentine provinces, 183178 of which were leased by Tarjeta Naranja.

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

Item 4A.

Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

Item 5.

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

A. Operating Results

The following discussion and analysis isare intended to help you understand and assess the significant changes and trends in our historical results of operations and the factors affecting our resources. You should read this section in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and their related notes included elsewhere in this annual report.

A.1 Overview


In recent years, we have strengthened our position as a leading domestic private-sector financial institution, increasing our market share of loans and deposits and strengthening Banco Galica’sGalicia’s regulatory capital reserves through the issuance of subordinated bonds and follow-on equity offerings, the sale of CFA and internal profit origination.

Despite the deterioration of the Argentine economy, reduction in Argentine GDP, high levels of inflation and the devaluation of the Peso, in 2018,2020 we were able to increase our market share of deposits and loans, maintain our asset quality and adequately cover credit risks and maintain liquidity and profitability metrics at reasonable levels.

FiscalWith the development of the COVID-19 outbreak, which was first alerted by the Chinese government in December 2019, many countries have suspended the business operations of many sectors of their economies, implemented travel restrictions and quarantine measures. Argentina has not been an exception to this rule. The Government implemented a series of measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, providing for preventative and mandatory social isolation or distancing, with variations depending on the region of the country. As of the date of this report, commercial activities are gradually reopening, in compliance with the protocols established by the Government. Additionally, in response to the pandemic and the ensuing policies implemented by the Government, regulatory agencies established rules whose objectives were to provide assistance to the economic sectors whose operations were adversely affected by the pandemic and for providing health care for the community in general. In particular, the BCRA established many regulations, among which are the suspension of the ability of banks to charge fees for the use of automatic teller machines , the refinancing of certain credit card debts that were not paid by the credit card holder for a one-year term and relaxed the delinquency days and default terms for the benefit of the borrowers. In addition, with the purpose of increasing the financial resources available in the economy, the BCRA has suspended banks’ ability to distribute dividends until June 30, 2021.

Accordingly, the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Galicia has been continually analyzing the evolution of the pandemic and its effect and taking all measures within its reach to safeguard it business continuity, to protect the health and safety of its employees, customers, and other stakeholders. Among the actions carried out to collaborate and comply with the regulations of the Government and of the BCRA, the following stand out: the subsidiaries of Group Financiero Galicia created interdisciplinary committees responsible for designing and executing various protocols and procedures for the provision of services; work from home policies were implemented, except for those employees who have activities that require their physical presence e.g. cash management logistics and customer service; appointments were required to conduct transactions at branch locations; various lines of credit were made available to clients with certain benefits such as reduction of interest rates, grace periods and the extension of payment terms; subsidies granted by the Government were credited to customer accounts and through the Banelco ATM network; new free-accounts were opened for retirement and subsidy beneficiaries; processes were modified so that they can be done 100% online through websites and / or mobile applications, without having to go to branches; new customer features and options were designed, such as the possibility of withdrawing money from ATMs and self-service terminals without a debit card; donations were made to various health centers, municipalities and families in vulnerable situations; solidarity campaigns were launched to promote customer collaboration and additional contribution from Grupo’s subsidiaries.

Our business and prospects are subject to risks associated with and arising from the outbreak of COVID-19, and the uncertainty of the impacts, duration, and severity of the outbreak. This global pandemic creates substantial uncertainty as to our ability to achieve our financial projects and how it may affect our business operations.

On another note but connected to the impact COVID-19 may have on how we operate our business, we have conducted a business impact analysis as part of our Business Continuity Program. The results of this analysis show that critical business functions will remain operative upon the occurrence of a disruptive event. In cases of mass absenteeism events, the analysis conducted identified the minimum quantity of personnel and positions needed to remain operative, the outcome being the leader of the relevant sector responsible for assigning personnel to such critical positions. New employees will be hired, and current employees will be relocated to guarantee that critical functions remain operative, if and where needed.

Even though up to the date of this report, Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries have suffered a limited impact on their results as a consequence of the pandemic, the impact of a lower level of economic activity and a higher level of unemployment could have a significant impact on Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations in the future.

Taking into account the above, fiscal year 20192021 is expected to be a challenging year of transition as a result of presidential elections in October 2019the uncertainty related to the impact of COVID-19, the evolution of the sovereign debt restructuring process with the IMF, and residualthe path to the normalization of certain macroeconomic imbalances in a volatile global economy, all of which could negatively impact the Argentine economy.economy and Grupo Financiero Galicia’s results of operations.

A.2 The Argentine Economy

The Argentine economy was affectedfirst weeks of 2020 continued to reflect the favorable trend observed in the last months of the previous year, driven mainly by international politicalthe optimism generated by the progress in the U.S.-China trade negotiations, diverting investors’ focus to other events such as the U.S. presidential elections, which took place at the beginning of November 2020. However, the economic-financial dynamics in the world were completely altered by the outbreak of COVID-19, a virus categorized by the World Health Organization (“WHO”) as a global pandemic. An almost complete shutdown in global activity led to recessions with unprecedented economic and economic factorssocial costs across the world. As a reference, in 2018, including aggressive trade policies promulgated by the United States the unemployment rate peaked at 14.7% in 2020 (it was 6.7% in December 2020) and 21.4 million jobs were lost between March and April 2020 (almost 11.8 million were created by the end of the year), and the GDP fell 31.4% quarter over quarter in particularthe second quarter ( it increased 33.4% in the third quarter and 4.3% in the fourth quarter ending with China. Monetary policies implementeda year over year decrease of 2.4% in 2020).

Confronted with this global context, both monetary entities and governments responded with important monetary and fiscal measures to ensure the correct functioning of the markets and to mitigate the negative economic and health effects generated by central banks worldwide also affected international markets. For example, the virus.

In the United States, fiscal measures reached a total of approximately US$3.9 trillion (~20% of GDP) in 2020, while the victory of the Democratic party boosted expectancy for further fiscal stimulus in the short-term. Likewise, the U.S. Federal Reserve continuedreduced its interest rate range by 150 bps to raise0%-0.25% and increased its balance sheet through various asset-buyback programs aimed at providing liquidity, amounting to 76.8% or US$3.2 trillion to almost US$7.4 trillion in 2020, representing about 37.8% of GDP, which is a level not observed since World War II. Additionally, the U.S. Federal Reserve updated its monetary policy framework, stating among the main changes that the level of rates consistent with full employment and long-term price stability had been reduced compared to its historical average, that higher risks to employment and inflation are expected, and that they will target full employment and an average inflation of 2%, hoping to see levels above such benchmark consistently. In the Eurozone, fiscal measures taken jointly in 2020 by country members reached € 1.4 trillion (around 10.1% of the aggregate GDP), while during 2020 the European Central Bank (ECB) maintained its interest ratesrate range at -0.5% to 0.0% and expanded its balance sheet by 48.7% or € 2.3 trillion to € 7.0 trillion, representing around 16.9% of GDP. In addition, there were significant incremental fiscal measures implemented in 2018Germany, the United Kingdom and asFrance. Finally, in 2020 China announced fiscal measures for RMB 4.8 trillion (~4.7% of GDP), while the country’s Central Bank (PBC) cut its interest rate by 30 bps to 3.85% and introduced financing facilities for RMB 2.6 trillion. On the other hand, there is still significant uncertainty regarding whether the measures introduced so far are enough to mitigate the effects of the Coronavirus or if additional efforts will be required from the relevant governmental authorities.

The number of positive cases of coronavirus reached 83.9 million by the end of 2020, including a result, ledmortality rate of 2.9%, mainly focused in the United States (20.5 million), India (10.3 million) and Brazil (7.7 million). Moreover, different stages of the virus propagation and social distancing measures have been seen worldwide. In general, the first wave of propagation was followed by a gradual decrease in growth rates. The volatility of financial markets, as well as some turbulence in emerging economies have also raised concerns among investors, thereby contributing to such decrease.

In 2018, the Dollar appreciated 3.9% and 10.5% vis-à-vis the currencies of other developed economiessecond wave, and the currenciesspread of emerging economies, respectively,the virus was accelerating by the end of the year, reducing short and medium-term perspectives for economic recovery. On the other hand, several vaccines were approved for use by various governments in the last months of the year, although it was still unknown when approved vaccines would be available for widespread distribution with the goal of obtaining global herd immunity.

Following the strike of COVID-19, stock indexes reflected a substantial correction between February and March of 2020, including maximum declines compared to the end of 2019 of 30.7% in the S&P 500 index in the United States ( it was up 16.3% in 2020 as compared to 2017. In addition,2019 by the two-year Treasuryend of 2020), 36.3% in the SX5E in the Eurozone ( it was down 5.1% as compared to 2019 by the end of 2020) and 12.8% in the Shanghai Composite in China ( it was up 21.5% by the end of 2020 as compared to 2019). Among other relevant variables, the VIX volatility index peaked at 82.6 points to close 2020 at 22.75 points, a level still well above the average of approximately 15 points prior to the impact of the Coronavirus. Also, the DXY US dollar index rose to almost 103 points at the peak to decline up to around 90 points. For emerging markets, this meant an outflow of up to US$96.9 billion by 581 bps, while the 10-year Treasury rose by 254 bps,end of September 2020 resulting in a flattenedmarked depreciation of related currencies against the Dollar, compared to inflows for US$62.2 billion in the last three months of 2020. The problem of the spread of 11 bpsthe Coronavirus was compounded by the conflict between Saudi Arabia and Russia over oil. After both countries failed to reach an agreement to limit barrel production, Saudi Arabia decided to increase its production output, causing a price correction in the 10crude oil price (WTI) of up to 81% to US$11.6 per barrel in March 2020, although its price ended the year at US$48.5, boosted by global economic recovery.

At the local level, the Argentine economy began 2020 unable to recover dynamism after ending 2019 with its second consecutive annual decline. In 2019, activity had fallen 2.1% (following the 2.6% contraction in 2018), a consequence of high political uncertainty, exchange rate volatility and two-year Treasuries. Stocks performed poorly bothaccelerating inflation. The lack of confidence prevented the country from refinancing its debt maturities, and the new Government had to handle an external debt restructuring process during the first months in developedoffice. The outbreak of COVID-19 added to this situation, a pandemic that forced the Government to implement a number of restrictive measures regarding movement by the public and emerging markets during 2018. The S&P 500 decreased 6.7%social distancing and isolation policies starting in mid-March, which negatively impacted production and trade. Therefore, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC), the Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased 6.1% and the Nasdaq 100 decreased 4.5%. The EuroStoxx50 decreased 14.8% and Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index decreased 12.1%Argentine GDP plunged an annual 9.9% in 20182020 as compared to 2017.2019.

The labor market reflected the historical slump in economic activity, as the latest available data shows that the unemployment rate rose to 11.0% of the economically active population during the fourth quarter of 2020. These figures are compared to an unemployment rate of 8.9% in the same quarter of 2019. Moreover, the activity and employment rates reached 45.0% and 40.1%, respectively, in the fourth quarter of 2020. In 2018, commodity prices also decreased by 8.3%both cases, this is below the 47.2% and 43.0% of the same quarter of the previous year.

On the monetary front, the main aggregates accelerated their expansion pace during most of 2020, rising several points above inflation (+60.4% year-on-year in October as compared to 2017, crude oil decreased 24% during2019). Up to November 5, the last quarterlatest data available at the time of 2018 as a result of the expected increase in the supply of American shale oil and the diminishment of global growth. There were also significant decreases in industrials such as aluminum and copper (-19% and -18%, respectively). The value of wheat increased 17% in 2018, whereas soy and corn decreased 6.7% and 5%, respectively.

Argentina’s economy continued to grow during the first quarter of 2018 (+2.9%). However, volatile markets abroad and domestically led to a net contraction of the Argentine economy in 2018 (-2.5%). The unemployment rate in Argentina reached 9% by the quarter ended September 31, 2018.

In the monetary sphere, the main monetary aggregates accelerated their pace, although still standing below the nominal growth of the economy. According to data provided by the Central Bank,writing this annual report, the monetary base recorded a 40.7% expansion in 2018, 18.9% over the growth recorded in 2017. This monetary aggregate increased by Ps.407,864Ps.464,844 million, primarilydue mainly to the monetary entity’s provision of financing to the Argentine Treasury. The BCRA issued Ps.407,720 million in “temporary advances” to the Argentine Treasury and Ps.1,2020,000 million as a resultconsequence of transferring all of 2019’s profits to the Argentine Treasury. This amounted to 6.0% of the repurchaseGDP. The impact of Lebacs in an amount equalthese issuances was neutralized via the placement of repo transactions and LELIQ (Ps.646,072 million, net of interest), combined with the absorption of Argentine pesos resulting from the sale of foreign currency to Ps.1,296,076 million. This was partially offsetthe private sector (Ps.331,866 million) and to the public sector (Ps.126,391 million).

Meanwhile, private M2 (comprised of currency held by the issuance of LELIQs by the Central Bank in an amount equal to Ps.709,470 million. This trend was not reflected in the performancepublic, savings accounts and checking accounts of the private-sector M2 (money in circulation, and deposits in checking and savings accounts), which grew 36.9% in 2018. The M2 total (including deposits from the publicprivate sector) expanded 23%, after increasing by 25.6% in 2017.


Domestic interest rates shifted with changes to expectations in prices and the foreign exchange market. Until May 2018, both expected depreciation and interest rates were kept relatively stable, but the upward pressure on the exchange rate during the second halfalso showed strong dynamism, registering an expansion of 2018 marked an important increase in the rates. Particularly, the Badlar rate was 49.5%79.3% as of December 31, 2018, as compared30, 2020 with respect to 23.43% asthe same period of December 31, 2017.2019. Total M2 (which also includes public sector deposits) recorded a similar expansion (+80.9%) in the same period.

During the first months of the year, domestic interest rates showed a downward trend. The BADLAR rate started at 36.2% in 2020, and by April it was at an average of 20%. However, exchange rate pressures and the growing liquidity in Argentine pesos led the BCRA to set a minimum interest rate level for term deposits of less than Ps.1 million equivalent to 70% of the LELIQ rate (nominal annual rate “TNA” of 26.6%). The minimum rate was later extended to fixed term deposits of up to $4 million, and subsequently to all time deposits. In June, the interest rate floor for all fixed-term deposits was raised to 79% of the LELIQ rate (TNA of 30.02%) and in August, it was raised to 87% (TNA of 33.06%), although this was only for retail deposits. At the beginning of October, the BCRA initiated a rate harmonization process, consisting of an increase in liability repurchase transactions rates (from 19% to 31% in four different segments) and a reduction in the LELIQ rate (from 38% to 36%). The rate floor for fixed-term deposits was also adjusted upwards, bringing fixed-term deposits of less than Ps.1 million currently yielding a minimum of 34% and those of more than Ps.1 million to 32%.

The reference exchange rate established byof the Argentine Central Bank increased form Ps.18.77BCRA went from Ps.59.90 to Ps.37.81Ps.84.15 per Dollardollar, between December 29, 201730, 2019 and December 28, 201830, 2020 (equivalent to a 101% depreciation), whilean increase in the exchange rate of 40.5%). The average exchange rate increased form Ps.16.57went from Ps.59.88 per dollar in 2017December 2019 to Ps.28.09Ps.82.72 per dollar in 2018.December 2020.

The national CPINational Consumer Price Index data published by INDEC reflectedshowed a 47.6% increaseyear-on-year variation of 36.1% in consumer prices inter-annually, considerably above 2017 levels (24.8%).December 2020, 17.7 percentage points below the 53.8% variation of December 2019. This accelerationslowdown was primarily a resultpartly due to the stabilization of the exchange rate, crisis.the implementation of capital controls, and the freezing of rates for public utilities and certain regulated goods and services. Additionally, it may be partially attributed to the statistical effect that the paralysis of activity had on price surveys during the months in which the strictest restrictions on mobility and production prevailed, in some cases, it was not possible to obtain measurements. The increase in the precautionary demand for money and the erosion of the purchasing power (a consequence of the increase in layoffs and salary cuts and of the fall in employment) also helped to contain the evolution of prices.

In theOn a fiscal area,level, during 2020, tax revenues, including social security, recorded a growth of 28.4% inter-annually,resources (grew 23.0% compared to a 22.6% inter-annual growththe interannual expansion of 51.4% in 2017. In turn,2019. Likewise, primary expenditures increased by 22.4%, slightlyexpanded 63.5% in 2020, above the 21.8% level37.2% of 2017.the previous year. Thus, the Argentine publicnational private sector achievedregistered a primary deficit of Ps.338,987Ps.1,749,957 million, equivalent to 2.4%—6.5% of GDP, reflectingthe GDP. This figure indicated an improvement asimpairment compared to 2017 (3.8%), amounting to Ps.404,142 million.the 2019 primary deficit of Ps.95,122 million (-0.4 p.p. of the GDP). After the payment of interest payments for Ps.388,940Ps.542,873 million, the financial deficit for 2020 amounted to Ps.727,927Ps.2,292,830 million, or equalequivalent to 5.1%-8.5% of GDP.

RegardingIn relation to the external sector, during 2018in 2020 the Foreign Exchange Balance Current Accountforeign exchange current account published by the Argentine Central Bank (onBCRA (cash base) recorded a cash basis) reachedsurplus of US$322 million, a drop of 94.9% compared to the surplus of US$11,3296,277 million deficit,registered in 2019. Measured in relation to GDP, the surplus of the checking account was about 0.1%, showing a reductiondrop compared to the surplus of 1.4% of the previous year.

The impairment observed in nominal terms was the result of lower net income from goods (US$8,492 million in 2020 as compared to US$17,05223,444 million in 2017. The current account deficit, measured in terms2019), an effect offset by a lower outflow of foreign currency via the INDEC’s official GDP, stood at about 2.1%, reflecting an improvement as comparedbalance of services (US$1,595 million up to 2017. According to the Central Bank, this improvements resulted from a higher netSeptember 2020) and by lower interest payments (US$6,528 million). In particular, income from assets (US$8,323 in 2018, as compared tothe collections of goods exports totaled US$4,02850,357 million in 2017) and lower net expenses from services (US$9,460 in 2018, as compared to US$10,847 million in 2017). Exports amounted to US$50,998 million for the year ended December 31, 2018,2020, a 13% decrease as12.89% drop compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Meanwhile,level observed in the previous year. Likewise, the import payments for imported goods amounted toof the exchange balance sheet totaled US$42,67541,865 million, forregistering an interannual growth of 22.0%

In this context, the year ended December 31, 2018, a decrease of 21.8% as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

The non-financial private sectorforeign exchange capital and financial account recorded a net foreign currency outflow of US$29,0158,048 million asin 2020, compared to a net foreign currency outflow of US$4,61732,384 million in 2017. The Central Bank’s international currency reserves2019. Likewise, the International Reserves of the BCRA amounted to US$65,80639,387 million asyear-end, which is US$5,394 million below the figure of December 28, 2018, an increase of US$10,751 million as compared to December 31, 2017.a previous year.

A.3 The Argentine Financial System

Total loans provided to the private sector inby the financial system amountedclimbed to Ps.2,133,175Ps.3,355,603 million asin December 2020, reflecting a 29.6% increase over the same month of December 31, 2018,2020. Consumer loans, consisting of loans granted through credit cards and personal loans, presented the greatest growth, a 32.8 %39.2% increase as compared to December 31, 2017. Mortgage loans had the most significant increase, amounting to Ps.224,4092019, totaling Ps.1,372,301 million as of December 31, 2018, a 67.7% increase compared to2020. On the same dateother hand, commercial loans, consisting of the previous year. Commercial loans, comprised bycurrent account overdrafts for checking account and notes (promissory notesdrafts/bills (signature and purchased/discounted notes)loans), increased 36.5% in 2018 as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.872,220finally totaled Ps.1,227,705 million, asregistering an increase of December 31, 2018. Consumer credit lines comprised of loans through credit cards and personal loans, increased 23.8% in 2018 as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.812,340 million as of December 31, 2018.25.2% year-on-year (YoY).

Total deposits in the financial system increased 66.1 % in 2018climbed to Ps.7,977,812 million as of the end of December 2020, up by 67.0% as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.4,028,100 million as of December 31, 2018,2019. Deposits from the non-financial private sector increased 61.1% in 2018 as compared64.0% annually, climbing to 2017, amounting to Ps.3,137,477Ps.6,453,993 million, while deposits from the public sector increased 87.3% in 2018 as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.854,675deposits totaled Ps.1,432,927 million, as of December 31, 2018.increase by 89.2% YoY. Within deposits from the private sector transactional deposits, increased 52.6 % in 2018 as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.1,776,615transaction deposits ended at Ps 3,707,372 million, whilea 62.5% hike YoY, and time deposits increased 77.2 % in 2018 as compared to 2017, amounting to Ps.1,276,823 million.at Ps.2,603,540million, a 68.9% annual growth.

TheIn December 2020, the average interest rate paid byfor 30-35-day term deposits in Argentine pesos from private banks as(over Ps.1 million) was 34.2%, registering an interannual drop of December 2018 for time deposits7.5 p.p. Regarding active rates, the one corresponding to advances in Pesos of 30 to 35 dayscurrent account was 48.6%, an inter-annual increase of 25.4% as compared to December 2017. In the case of lending rates, the


average interest rate applicable to checking account overdrafts was 70.8 %, an increase of 36.7% as compared to December 2017.39.7% (-26.7 p.p. YoY).

IncludingWith data as of December 2018,2020, financial institutions increased their liquidity levels (in relation to total deposits) as compared to the same periodmonth of 2017,the previous year, a ratio that stood at 56%65.0%, +4.9 p.p. (considering repurchase transactions and instruments of the BCRA).

In terms of solvency, the equity of the financial system showed an interannual increase of 14% inter-annually.

Ps.777,586 million, finally totaling Ps.1,685,318 million, which implies an 85.7% increase. The net worthprofitability of the Argentine financial system increased by Ps.184,807 million during 2018, amounting to Ps.575,138, an increase of 47.3% in 2018accumulating 12 months as compared to 2017. As of December 2018,2020 (Comprehensive Income adjusted by inflation) was equivalent to 2.3% of assets, while the Argentine financial system’s profitability was equal to 3.8% of total assets, an increase of 0.8% in 2018 as compared to 2017, while return on shareholders’ equity amounted to 34.1%, an increase of 8.3% in 2018 as compared to 2017.

As of December 2018, income from interest and income from services amounted to 10.8% and 2.2% of total assets, respectively. In 2018, administrative expenses decreased to 6.3 % of total assets (a 83 bps decrease as compared to the same period in 2017), while provisions for loan losses amounted to 1.3 % (a 28 bps increase as compared to the same period in 2017)Shareholders’ Equity was 15.8%.

The non-accrual loannonperforming portfolio of loans to the non-financial private sector reached 2.9%amounted to 3.9% in December 2018, a 117 bps increase as compared to December 2017.The coverage2020, minor than the 5.7% of the previous year. Hedging with allowances for private sector non-accrual loan portfolio with allowances reached 122%nonperforming loans was 151%, a 29% decrease as compared to December 2017.53 p.p. higher than the measurement reported in the same month of 2019.

As for the composition of December 31, 2018, the financial system, was comprisedas of 78November 30, 2020, there were 79 financial institutions: 6364 banks, 50 of which 51 were private (34 domestically-owned(35 of domestic capital and 16 foreign-owned)foreigners) and 13 government-owned banks, in addition towere public, and 15 non-banking financial institutions.

The concentrationWith data as of September 2020, the latest information available, the financial system measured by the market share of private sector deposits of the ten leading banks, reached 78.8% as of December 31, 2018, 1.5 bps higher than the percentage recorded as of December 31, 2017.

Based on information as ofemployed 104,657 people, which represented a 2.1% drop since September 30, 2018, the Argentine financial sector employed 108,737 people, a 1.3% decrease as compared to September 30, 2017.2019.

A.4 The Argentine Insurance Industry

According to the information published by the Superintencia de Seguros de la Nación, the insurance industry continued to grow throughout 2018.2020. The total gross premiums in respect of property, life, and retirement insurance for such period was equal to Ps.391,719Ps.840,557 million, an increase of 30%35% as compared to 2017.2019.

During 2018,2020, the automotive and workers’ compensation insurance sectors were affected by high inflation and an increase in the filing of claims for compensation. Although inflation is not decreasing as expected, financial income is expected to cover any increased costs as a result of the foregoing.

Home, life and personal accident insurance policies increased by 39%35% year-over-year. It is expected that this segment will continue to increase as the Argentine economy stabilizes. During this period, Galicia Seguros has maintained positive financial results. As of December 31, 2018,2020, Sudamericana Holding, primarily through its main subsidiary Galicia Seguros reported a net income equal to Ps.535Ps.1,318 million. This result includes Ps.7,789 million comprised of insurance premiums and surcharges (related to both direct insurance and reinsurance).

A.5 Inflation

Historically, inflation in Argentina has played a significant role in influencing, often negatively, the economic conditions in Argentina and, in turn, the operations and financial results of companies operating in Argentina, such as Grupo Financiero Galicia.

In fiscal year 2015, due to changes in the authorities at the Institute of Statistics, the Wholesale Price Index and CPI series were discontinued beginning in October 2015. The Wholesale Price Index was republished beginning January 2016. A new CPI series was launched in May 2016 but did not contain historical information.


The chart below presents a comparison of inflation rates published by INDEC, measured by the Whole Price Index and the CPI, for the fiscal years 2018, 20172020, 2019 and 2016. In 2016, annual variation of the CPI was calculated using the CPI of the City of Buenos Aires, an alternative measure of inflation proposed by INDEC after it discontinued its index.2018.

In addition, the chart below presents the evolution of the CER and UVA indexes, published by the Argentine Central BankBCRA and used to adjust the principal of certain of our assets and liabilities for the specified periods.

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

2018

 

2017

 

2016

 

 

(in percentages)

Price Indices (1) (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

WPI

 

73.50

 

18.80

 

34.59

CPI

 

47.65

 

24.80

 

41.05

Adjustment Indices

 

 

 

 

 

 

CER

 

47.16

 

22.62

 

35.79

UVA(3)

 

46.86

 

21.15

 

17.26

   For the Year Ended December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in percentages) 

Price Indices (1)

      

WPI

   35.38    58.49    73.50 

CPI

   36.14    53.83    47.65 

Adjustment Indices

      

CER

   25.49    18,70    12,34 

UVA(2)

   64.32    47,16    31,06 

(1)

Data for December of each year as compared to December of the immediately preceding year.

(2)

Unidad de Valor Adquisitivo (Acquisition Value Unit).

In 2018,2020, the CPI published by INDEC reflected a 47.65%36.1% increase, while the CER and UVA indexes went up 47.16%25.5% and 46.86%64.32% during the same period, respectively.

In the first two months of 2019,2021, the CPI published by INDEC reflected a 6.8%7.8% increase, while the CER and UVA indexes increased by 5.6%7.54% and 7.34% respectively, during the same period.

A.6 Currency Composition of Our Balance Sheet

The following table sets forth our assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency, in Pesos and adjustable by the CER/UVA, as of the dates indicated.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(In millions of Pesos)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Pesos, Unadjusted

 

 

350,429

 

 

 

356,240

 

 

 

326,657

 

In Pesos, Adjusted by the CER/UVA

 

 

18,457

 

 

 

6,152

 

 

 

1,288

 

In Foreign Currency (1)

 

 

200,806

 

 

 

127,249

 

 

 

122,669

 

Total Assets

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

489,641

 

 

 

450,614

 

Liabilities and Stakeholder´s Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Pesos, Unadjusted, Including Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

366,042

 

 

 

361,459

 

 

 

325,760

 

In Pesos, Adjusted by the CER/UVA

 

 

3,207

 

 

 

933

 

 

 

182

 

In Foreign Currency (1)

 

 

200,443

 

 

 

127,249

 

 

 

124,672

 

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

489,641

 

 

 

450,614

 

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (In millions of Pesos) 

Assets

      

In Pesos, Unadjusted

   805,797    620,363    731,530 

In Pesos, Adjusted by the CER/UVA

   32,321    39,809    38,635 

In Foreign Currency (1)

   217,161    275,182    422,931 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Assets

   1,055,279    935,354    1,193,096 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

      

In Pesos, Unadjusted, Including Shareholders’ Equity

   831,019    657,516    764,365 

In Pesos, Adjusted by the CER/UVA

   7,099    2,656    5,800 

In Foreign Currency (1)

   217,161    275,182    422,931 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

   1,055,279    935,354    1,193,096 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

If adjusted to reflect forward sales and purchases of foreign exchange made by Grupo Financiero Galicia and recorded off-balance sheet, assets amounted to Ps.241,407Ps.241,110 and liabilities Ps.241,306Ps.241,650 million as of December 31, 2018.2020.

Funding of Banco Galicia’s long position in CER/UVA-adjusted assets through Peso-denominated liabilities bearing a market interest rate (and no principal adjustment linked to inflation) exposes Banco Galicia to differential fluctuations in the inflation rate and in market interest rates, with a significant increase in market interest rates vis-à-vis the inflation rate (which is reflected in the CER/UVA variation), which has a negative impact on our gross brokerage margin.


Two other currencies have been defined apart from the Argentine Peso: assets and liabilities adjusted by CER/UVA and foreign currency. Banco Galicia’s policy in force establishes limits in terms of maximum “net asset positions” (assets denominated in a currency which are higher than the liabilities denominated in such currency) and “net liability positions” (assets denominated in a currency which are lower than the liabilities denominated in such currency) for mismatches in foreign currency, as a proportion of Banco Galicia’s RPC, on a consolidated basis.

An adequate balance between assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency characterizes the management strategy for this risk factor, seeking to achieve full coverage of long-term asset-liability mismatches and allowing a short-term mismatch management margin that contributes to the possibility of improving certain market situations. Short- and long-term goals are attained by appropriately managing assets and liabilities and by using the financial products available in our market, particularly “dollar futures” both in institutionalized markets (MAE and ROFEX) and in forward transactions performed with customers.

Transactions in foreign currency futures (specifically, Dollardollar futures) are subject to limits that take into consideration the particular characteristics of each trading environment.

A.7 Results of Operations for the Fiscal Years Ended December 31, 20182020 and December 31, 20172019 and December 31, 2018.

We discuss below our results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 20182020 as compared with our results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

Consolidated Income Statement

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Consolidated Income Statement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income from Interest

 

 

33,364

 

 

 

29,874

 

 

 

12

 

Interest Income

 

 

78,274

 

 

 

54,694

 

 

 

43

 

Interest Expenses

 

 

(44,910

)

 

 

(24,820

)

 

 

81

 

Net Fee Income

 

 

20,238

 

 

 

22,146

 

 

 

(9

)

Fee Income

 

 

23,264

 

 

 

25,399

 

 

 

(8

)

Fee Related Expenses

 

 

(3,026

)

 

 

(3,253

)

 

 

(7

)

Net Income from Financial Instruments

 

 

17,353

 

 

 

8,461

 

 

 

105

 

Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

 

 

3,777

 

 

 

3,479

 

 

 

9

 

Other Operative Income

 

 

11,793

 

 

 

8,997

 

 

 

31

 

Underwriting Income from Insurance Business

 

 

2,869

 

 

 

3,315

 

 

 

(13

)

Loan and Other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

(16,300

)

 

 

(7,294

)

 

 

123

 

Net Operating Income

 

 

73,094

 

 

 

68,978

 

 

 

6

 

Personnel expenses

 

 

(17,026

)

 

 

(17,089

)

 

 

 

Administrative Expenses

 

 

(16,079

)

 

 

(14,424

)

 

 

11

 

Depreciations and Impairment of Assets

 

 

(1,652

)

 

 

(1,439

)

 

 

15

 

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

(16,899

)

 

 

(14,605

)

 

 

16

 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

 

 

(18,064

)

 

 

(6,823

)

 

 

165

 

Operating Income

 

 

3,374

 

 

 

14,598

 

 

 

(77

)

Share of Profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

 

 

 

321

 

 

 

(100

)

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

 

(6,913

)

 

 

(7,319

)

 

 

(6

)

Net Income from Discontinuing Operations

 

 

(291

)

 

 

(322

)

 

 

(10

)

Net (Loss) / Income for the Year

 

 

(3,830

)

 

 

7,278

 

 

 

(153

)

(Loss) / Income for the Year Attributable to GFG

 

 

(3,466

)

 

 

6,794

 

 

 

(151

)

(Loss) / Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

(364

)

 

 

484

 

 

 

(175

)

Other Comprehensive Income

 

 

(87

)

 

 

(435

)

 

 

(80

)

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

(3,917

)

 

 

6,843

 

 

 

(157

)

Total Comprehensive Loss Attributable to GFG

 

 

(3,553

)

 

 

6,359

 

 

 

(156

)

Total Comprehensive Loss Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

(364

)

 

 

484

 

 

 

(175

)

Ratios (%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Return on Average Assets

 

 

(0.61

)

 

 

1.39

 

 

 

(200

)

Return on Average Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

(5.76

)

 

 

10.53

 

 

 

(1,629

)


Net loss2019 and our results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.3,830 million,2019 as compared to net income equal to Ps.7,278 millionwith our results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a Ps.11,108 million, or 153% decrease. Such decrease was primarily attributable to:2018.

a Ps.11,241 million increase in loss on net monetary position, from Ps.6,823 million to Ps.18,064 million, and

a Ps.9,006 million increase in loan and other receivables loss provisions, from Ps.7,294 million to Ps.16,300 million.

Such changes were partially offset by:

a Ps.8,892 million increase in net income from financial instruments, from Ps.8,461 million to Ps.17,353 million, and

a Ps.3.490 million increase in net income from interest, from Ps.29,874 million to Ps.33,364 million.

Net earnings per share for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to a Ps.2.43 per share loss, as compared to a Ps.4.76 per share gain for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.i) Consolidated Income Statement

The return on average assets and the return on average shareholders’ equity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to a 0.61% and 5.76% loss, respectively, as compared to a 1.39% and 10.53% gain, respectively, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

The decrease in net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018 was mainly the result of a 165% increase in loss on net monetary position attributable to higher inflation levels and a 123% increase in loan and other receivables loss provisions attributable to an increase in loans in default. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in net operating income, which amounted to Ps.73,094 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 6% increase as compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 This increase was primarily due to an increase in our net results from financial instruments equal to Ps.8,892 million in 2018 as compared to 2017, a 105% increase.

Interest-Earning Assets

The following table shows our yields on interest-earning assets:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except rates)

 

Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

52,704

 

 

 

28.77

 

 

 

41,240

 

 

 

14.74

 

Loans

 

 

301,653

 

 

 

24.62

 

 

 

264,122

 

 

 

19.25

 

Other

 

 

16,378

 

 

 

20.74

 

 

 

16,872

 

 

 

19.67

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

370,735

 

 

 

25.04

 

 

 

322,234

 

 

 

18.69

 

Spread and Net Yield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Spread, Nominal Basis (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.91

 

Cost of Funds Supporting Interest-Earning Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.96

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.26

 

Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.08

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.43

 

(1)

Reflects the difference between the average nominal interest rate on interest-earning assets and the average nominal interest rate on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest rates include the CER/UVA adjustment.

(2)

Net interest earned divided by average interest-earning assets. Interest rates include the CER/UVA adjustment.

The average of interest-earning assets increased Ps.48,501 million, from Ps.322,234 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 to Ps.370,735 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 15% increase. Of this increase, Ps.37,531 million was due to an increase in the average size of the loan portfolio. The average yield on interest-earning assets was 25.04% in 2018, as compared to 18.69% in 2017, a 635 bps


increase, that was primarily attributable to an increase in the average interest rate earned on government securities and an increase in the average interest rate earned on outstanding loans.

Interest-Bearing Liabilities

The following table shows our yields on cost of funds:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

Average Balance

 

 

Average Yield / Rate

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except rates)

 

Interest-Bearing Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Checking Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

121,954

 

 

 

0.18

 

 

 

99,015

 

 

 

0.07

 

Time Deposits

 

 

128,781

 

 

 

21.61

 

 

 

101,074

 

 

 

15.90

 

Debt Securities

 

 

34,830

 

 

 

24.16

 

 

 

27,984

 

 

 

19.30

 

Other Interest-bearing Liabilities

 

 

23,159

 

 

 

17.93

 

 

 

11,064

 

 

 

16.79

 

Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities

 

 

308,724

 

 

 

13.16

 

 

 

239,137

 

 

 

9.78

 

The average interest-bearing liabilities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.308,724 million, as compared to Ps.239,137 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of 29% as compared to 2017. Such increase was primarily attributable to a Ps.50,646 million increase in total interest-bearing deposits (savings accounts and time deposits), which increased to Ps.250,735 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 from Ps.200,089 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and a Ps.12,095 million increase in the average balance of other interest-bearing liabilities, which increased to Ps.23,159 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 from Ps.11,064 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

Interest Income

Our consolidated interest income was composed of the following:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Cash and due from banks

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Private sector securities

 

 

330

 

 

 

250

 

 

 

32

 

Public sector securities

 

 

1,389

 

 

 

449

 

 

 

209

 

On Loans and Other Financing Activities

 

 

75,808

 

 

 

52,712

 

 

 

44

 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

-

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

(100

)

Financial Sector

 

 

2,104

 

 

 

1,107

 

 

 

90

 

Non-financial Private Sector

 

 

73,704

 

 

 

51,601

 

 

 

43

 

Overdrafts

 

 

9,839

 

 

 

4,409

 

 

 

123

 

Mortgage loans

 

 

5,951

 

 

 

941

 

 

 

532

 

Collateralized loans

 

 

426

 

 

 

184

 

 

 

132

 

Personal Loans

 

 

9,149

 

 

 

7,718

 

 

 

19

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

29,356

 

 

 

24,900

 

 

 

18

 

Financial Leases

 

 

604

 

 

 

539

 

 

 

12

 

Others

 

 

18,379

 

 

 

12,910

 

 

 

42

 

On Repurchase Transactions

 

 

746

 

 

 

1,283

 

 

 

(42

)

Total Interest Income

 

 

78,274

 

 

 

54,694

 

 

 

43

 

Interest income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was Ps.78,274 million, as compared to Ps.54,694 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 43% increase. Such increase was the result of a higher average volume of interest-earning assets and higher average interest rates charged thereon.


The average amount of loans for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.301,653 million, a 14% increase as compared to the Ps.264,122 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in overdraft, mortgage and credit card loans extended as part of the portfolio.

The average interest rate on total loans was 24.62% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to 19.25% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

The average interest rate on Peso-denominated loans to the private sector was 32.59% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to an average interest rate of 23.40% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, representing a 919 bps increase year-over-year.

Interest income from banking activity amounted to Ps.62,718 million, a 55% increase as compared to the Ps.40,517 million recorded in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. This increase is primarily attributable to increased interest due on loans and other financing from the non-financial private sector. The principal variations were in interest income on overdraft accounts and mortgages.

According to Argentine Central Bank information, as of December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia’s estimated market share of loans to the private sector was 10.51% as of December 31, 2018, as compared to 9.65% as of December 31, 2017.

The following table indicates Banco Galicia market share in the segments listed below:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in percentages)

 

Total Loans

 

 

10.62

 

 

 

9.53

 

Private-Sector Loans

 

 

10.51

 

 

 

9.65

 

(*)

Exclusively Banco Galicia within the Argentine market, according to the daily information on loans published by the Argentine Central Bank. balances as of the last day of each year.

Interest income related to Regional Credit Cards amounted to Ps.15,140 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, an 11% increase as compared to the Ps.13,579 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was primarily the result of additional interest earned on the outstanding balances on issued credit cards.

Interest income related to insurance activity amounted to Ps.423 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, a 1% decrease as compared to the Ps.428 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

   For the Year Ended December 31,  Change (%) 
   2020  2019  2018  2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except otherwise noted) 

Consolidated Income Statement

      

Net Income from Interest

   76,632   47,417   69,873   62   (32

Interest Income

   166,807   177,671   163,928   (6  8 

Interest Expenses

Our consolidated interest expenses were comprised of the following:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

On Deposits

 

 

32,708

 

 

 

17,514

 

 

 

87

 

Non-financial Private Sector

 

 

32,708

 

 

 

17,514

 

 

 

87

 

Checking Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

(100

)

Savings Accounts

 

 

5

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

 

Time Deposit and Term Investments

 

 

28,706

 

 

 

16,758

 

 

 

71

 

Others

 

 

3,997

 

 

 

750

 

 

 

433

 

On Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

2,161

 

 

 

1,194

 

 

 

81

 

On Repurchase Transactions

 

 

220

 

 

 

358

 

 

 

(39

)

On Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

5,632

 

 

 

3,841

 

 

 

47

 

On Negotiable Obligations Issued

 

 

4,189

 

 

 

1,913

 

 

 

119

 

Total Interest Expenses

 

 

44,910

 

 

 

24,820

 

 

 

81

 


Interest expenses for the fiscal year ended December 

(90,175(130,254(94,055(31 2018 were equal to Ps.44,910 million, as compared to Ps.24,820 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, representing a 81% increase. Such increase was primarily attributable to a 29% increase in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities.

Interest expenses from deposits amounted Ps.32,708 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to Ps.17,514 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, an 87% increase. This increase was primarily due to increased interest expenses related to time deposits and investments, which was equal to Ps.28,706 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 71% increase as compared to Ps.16,758 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

With respect to the total average interest-bearing deposits for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, Ps.135,427 million were Peso-denominated deposits and Ps.115,308 million were foreign currency-denominated deposits, as compared to Ps.130,690 million and Ps.69,399 million, respectively, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. Average deposits recorded an increase of 25%, with an increase of 23% in savings account deposits and a 27% increase in time deposits.

Out of total interest-bearing time deposits (savings accounts and time deposits) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, the average interest rate of time deposits was 11.19%, as compared to 8.07% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 312 bps increase.

Peso-denominated deposits (savings accounts and time deposits) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 accrued interest at an average rate of 20.53%, as compared to an average rate of 12.28% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 825 bps increase. The rate of foreign currency-denominated deposits for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was 0.22%, as compared to 0.12% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 10 bps increase.

Interest expenses related to banking activity amounted Ps.39,102 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to Ps.20,792 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, representing a 88% increase. Such increase was primarily the result of a higher volume of deposits on which the Bank paid interest.

Using Argentine Central Bank information and considering only deposits from the private-sector deposits in checking and savings accounts and time deposits, Banco Galicia’s estimated Argentine deposit market share increased from 10.20% as of December 31, 2017 to 11.08% as of December 31, 2018.

The following table indicates Banco Galicia´s market share in the segments listed below:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in percentages)

 

Total Deposits

 

 

8.85

 

 

 

8.23

 

Private-Sector Deposits

 

 

11.08

 

 

 

10.20

 

Total Deposits in Checking and Savings Accounts and Time Deposits

 

 

11.33

 

 

 

10.48

 

38

(*)

Exclusively Banco Galicia within the Argentine market, according to the daily information on deposits published by the Argentine Central Bank. balances as of the last day of each year.

Interest expenses related to Regional Credit Cards amounted Ps.5,962 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to Ps.4,028 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, representing a 48% increase. This increase was primarily the result of an increase in interest expenses on debt securities issued by Tarjetas Regionales or its subsidiaries.


Net Fee Income

36,55838,23344,756(4(15

Our consolidated net fee income consisted of:Fee Income

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Income From

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Cards

 

 

13,374

 

 

 

16,578

 

 

 

(19

)

Deposit Accounts

 

 

2,874

 

 

 

2,705

 

 

 

6

 

Inssurances

 

 

617

 

 

 

819

 

 

 

(25

)

Financial fees

 

 

266

 

 

 

288

 

 

 

(8

)

Credit-related fees

 

 

1,005

 

 

 

994

 

 

 

1

 

Foreign trade

 

 

2,362

 

 

 

1,584

 

 

 

49

 

Collections

 

 

606

 

 

 

743

 

 

 

(18

)

Utility-bills collection services

 

 

729

 

 

 

630

 

 

 

16

 

Mutual funds

 

 

402

 

 

 

188

 

 

 

114

 

Others

 

 

1,029

 

 

 

870

 

 

 

18

 

Total fee income

 

 

23,264

 

 

 

25,399

 

 

 

(8

)

Total fee expenses

 

 

(3,026

)

 

 

(3,253

)

 

 

(7

)

Net fee income

 

 

20,238

 

 

 

22,146

 

 

 

(9

)

46,47647,84751,094(3(6

Our net fee income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.20,238 million, as compared to Ps.22,146 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 9% decrease. This decrease was mainly due to a 19% decrease of fees related to credit cards.Fee Related Expenses

Income from credit and debit card transactions, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was Ps.13,374 million, as compared to Ps.16,578 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 19% decrease. Such decrease was mainly attributable to an increase in costs associated with the maintenance of issued credit cards as a result of a decrease in credit card fees and stagnant consumer consumption as a result of the inflationary Argentine economy. The total number of credit cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was 13,915,580, as compared to 13,894,319 as of December 31, 2017, a 0.15% increase.

The most significant increase in fees was to those related to foreign trade operations. Fees from foreign trade for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.2,362 million, as compared to Ps.1,584 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 49% increase.

Fees related to the maintenance of deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.2,874, as compared to Ps.2,705 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 6% increase. This increase was due to increase in the number of deposit accounts under management. Total deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were 4.8million, as compared to 4.2 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 12% increase.

Total fee expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.3,026 million, as compared to Ps.3,253 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 7% decrease. Such decrease was mainly attributable to a decrease in expenses related to credit and debit card transactions.


The following table sets forth the number of credit cards outstanding as of the dates indicated:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(number of credit cards, except otherwise noted)

 

 

(percentages)

 

Visa

 

 

3,136,166

 

 

 

2,979,993

 

 

 

5

 

“Gold”

 

 

744,771

 

 

 

705,990

 

 

 

5

 

International

 

 

1,282,617

 

 

 

1,368,945

 

 

 

(6

)

Domestic

 

 

50,091

 

 

 

55,956

 

 

 

(10

)

“Business”

 

 

148,549

 

 

 

131,547

 

 

 

13

 

“Signature”

 

 

359,477

 

 

 

258,121

 

 

 

39

 

“Platinum”

 

 

550,661

 

 

 

459,434

 

 

 

20

 

Galicia Rural

 

 

18,188

 

 

 

17,960

 

 

 

1

 

American Express

 

 

893,314

 

 

 

964,007

 

 

 

(7

)

“Gold”

 

 

280,239

 

 

 

313,580

 

 

 

(11

)

“International”

 

 

184,437

 

 

 

240,441

 

 

 

(23

)

“Platinum”

 

 

270,068

 

 

 

274,717

 

 

 

(2

)

"Signature"

 

 

158,570

 

 

 

135,269

 

 

 

17

 

MasterCard

 

 

1,050,041

 

 

 

784,316

 

 

 

34

 

“Gold”

 

 

284,340

 

 

 

196,911

 

 

 

44

 

MasterCard

 

 

414,559

 

 

 

381,215

 

 

 

9

 

Argencard

 

 

148

 

 

 

200

 

 

 

(26

)

“Platinum”

 

 

170,202

 

 

 

96,068

 

 

 

77

 

“Black”

 

 

180,792

 

 

 

109,922

 

 

 

64

 

Regional Credit Card Companies

 

 

8,817,871

 

 

 

9,148,043

 

 

 

(4

)

Regional Brands(1)

 

 

4,777,286

 

 

 

5,045,881

 

 

 

(5

)

Visa

 

 

3,503,792

 

 

 

3,529,516

 

 

 

(1

)

MasterCard

 

 

491,231

 

 

 

531,398

 

 

 

(8

)

American Express

 

 

45,562

 

 

 

41,248

 

 

 

10

 

Total Credit Cards

 

 

13,915,580

 

 

 

13,894,319

 

 

 

 

Total Amount of Purchases (in millions of Pesos)

 

 

636,062,774

 

 

 

265,581,905

 

 

 

139

 

(9,918(9,614(6,338352

(1)

It corresponds to Tarjeta Naranja S.A. and Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

Net fee income related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.12,476 million, as compared to Ps.12,163 million for fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 3% increase.

The main components of net fee income are fees related to foreign trade and mutual funds. The fees related to foreign trade for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 amounted Ps.2,362 million, as compared to Ps.1,584 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 49% increase. The fees related to mutual funds for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 amounted to Ps.402 million as compared to Ps.188 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 114% increase.

Fees related to deposit accounts and credit and debit card transactions were stable. With respect to revenue generated by credit and debit card transactions for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.5,299 million, as compared to Ps.6,496 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 18% decrease. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, fees related to deposit accounts were equal to Ps.2,874 million, as compared to Ps.2,705 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 6% increase.


Net fee income related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 amounted to Ps.8,930 million, as compared to Ps.10,028 million for the fiscal year ended December,31 2017, an 11% decrease. This decrease was primarily the result of decrease in consumption by credit card users and a decrease in the number of credit cards issued due to the merger with Tarjeta Nevada.

Net Income from Financial Instruments

69,33299,15136,342(30173

Our consolidated net incomeIncome from financial instruments was comprised of:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

 

 

 

 

Income from Government Securities

 

 

13,908

 

 

 

7,488

 

 

 

86

 

Income from Private Securities

 

 

1,546

 

 

 

1,570

 

 

 

(2

)

Income from Derivative Instruments

 

 

1,889

 

 

 

(597

)

 

 

(416

)

   Repurchase Transactions

 

 

1,999

 

 

 

(595

)

 

 

(436

)

   Rate Swaps

 

 

(110

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options

 

 

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(100

)

Income from Other Financial Assets

 

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Net Results from Financial Instruments

 

 

17,353

 

 

 

8,461

 

 

 

105

 

Our net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.17,353 million, as compared to Ps.8,461 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 105% increase.

The average position in government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was Ps.52,704 million, as compared to Ps.41,240 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 28% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increaseDerecognition of Ps.9,172 million in the average position in Peso-denominated government securities and of Ps.2,292 million in the average position in foreign currency-denominated government securities.  Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

(3299464(101(36

The average position in Peso-denominated government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was Ps.45,045 million, as compared to Ps.35,872 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 26% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to higher balances of securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank (Leliqs).The average position in foreign currency-denominated government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was Ps.7,659 million, as compared to Ps.5,367 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 43% increase.

The average yieldExchange Rate Differences on government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was 28.77%, as compared to 14.74% for fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was primarily attributable to a higher average yield with respect to Peso-denominated government securities.

The average interest rate on Peso-denominated government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was 33.21%, as compared to 16.24% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.This increase, was primarily attributable to higher interest rates on securities (Leliqs) issued by the Argentine Central Bank. The average interest rate of foreign currency-denominated government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 was 2.65%, as compared to 4.68% for fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. This decrease was primarily attributable to changes in the investment portfolio.

These variations were mainly a result of net income from financial instruments related to Banco Galicia, which represents 92% of our total consolidated financial instruments. Banco Galicia’s net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 amounted Ps.16,048 million, as compared to Ps.6,726 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 139% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in income from government securities.


Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

Gold and foreign currency quotation differences for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.3,777 million, as compared to Ps.3,479 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 9% increase. This increase was primarily the result of an increase in foreign currency brokerage at Banco Galicia for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 equal to Ps.5,989 million, as compared to Ps.2,943 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 103% increase.

7,04711,8327,910(4050

Other Operating Income

The following table sets forth the various components of other operating income.

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

 

 

 

 

Other financial income (1) (2)

 

 

390

 

 

 

58

 

 

 

572

 

Commission on Product Package (1)

 

 

2,731

 

 

 

2,804

 

 

 

(3

)

Rental of safe deposit boxes (1)

 

 

516

 

 

 

512

 

 

 

1

 

Other fee income (1)

 

 

4,082

 

 

 

3,177

 

 

 

28

 

Other adjustments and interest on miscellaneous receivables

 

 

1,599

 

 

 

456

 

 

 

251

 

Other

 

 

2,475

 

 

 

1,990

 

 

 

24

 

Total other operating income

 

 

11,793

 

 

 

8,997

 

 

 

31

 

22,32328,77021,863(2232

1)

Item included for calculating the efficiency ratio.

2)

Item included for calculating the financial margin.

Other operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.11,793 million, as compared to Ps.8,997 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 31% increase. This increase was mainly the result of a increase in income from other fees for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, which was equal to Ps.4,082 million, as compared to Ps.3,177 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

Other operating income related to banking activity was equal to Ps.7,183 million, as compared to Ps.5,082 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 41% increase.

Other operating income related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.3,682 million, as compared to Ps.4,058 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 9% decrease.

Other operating income related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.164 million, as compared to Ps.73 millon for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 125% increase.

Income from Insurance ActivitiesBusiness

The following table shows the results generated by insurance activities:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Premiums and Surcharges Accrued

 

 

4,687

 

 

 

5,261

 

 

 

(11

)

Claims Accrued

 

 

(536

)

 

 

(605

)

 

 

(11

)

Surrenders

 

 

(6

)

 

 

(7

)

 

 

(14

)

Life and Ordinary Annuities

 

 

(8

)

 

 

(9

)

 

 

(11

)

Underwriting and Operating Expenses

 

 

(1,285

)

 

 

(1,300

)

 

 

(1

)

Other Income and Expenses

 

 

17

 

 

 

(25

)

 

 

(168

)

Total Income from Insurance Activities

 

 

2,869

 

 

 

3,315

 

 

 

(13

)

Income from insurance activities (excluding administrative expenses and taxes, net of eliminations related to related-party transactions) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.2,869 million, as compared to Ps.3,315 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 13% decrease. This decrease was


mainly due to the decrease in the volume of earned premiums and surcharges, but was partially offset by a decrease in the number of insurance claims filed.

5,5025,0016,00910(17

Loan and Other Receivables Loss Provisions

(34,680(30,228(34,13615(11

Net Operating Income

182,711200,475153,081(931

Personnel expenses

(31,825(33,285(35,658(4(7

Administrative Expenses

(31,372(33,105(33,674(5(2

Depreciations and Impairment of Assets

(8,284(6,895(3,4602099

Other Operating Expenses

(30,764(35,083(35,391(12(1

Loss on Net Monetary Position

(36,963(41,929(37,831(1211

Operating Income

43,50350,1787,067(13610

Share of Profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

(125—  —  —  —  

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

(17,845(17,751(14,477123

Loss from Discontinued Operations

—  —  (544—  (100

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

—  —  (66—  100

Net Income (Loss) for the Year

25,53332,427(8,020(21504

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Parent Company’s Owner

25,19232,276(7,258(22545

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

341151(762126120

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(210548(183(138399

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)

25,32332,975(8,203(23502

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Company’s Owners

24,98232,824(7,442(24541

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) Loss Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

341151(761126120
Ratios (%)Change (pbs)

Return on Assets

2.393.46(0.61(107407

Return on Shareholders’ Equity

13.8220.81(5.76(6992,657
Change (%)

Basic Earnings per Share (in Pesos)

17.4622.62(5.09(23545

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Net income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.25,533 million, as compared to net income equal to Ps.32,427 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.6,894 million or 21% decrease. This result was mainly due to net income from: (i) banking activities (Banco Galicia) for Ps.20,928 million, (ii) Ecosistema NaranjaX for Ps.2,159 million and (iii) insurance services (Sudamerica Holding) for Ps.1,318 million.

Net earnings per share for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to a Ps.17.46 per share, as compared to a Ps.22.62 per share for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

The return on assets and the return on shareholders’ equity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to a 2.39% and 13.82%, respectively, as compared to a 3.46% and 20.81%, respectively, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

The decrease in net income for the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily attributable to a lower net operating income, decreasing from Ps.200,475 million to Ps.182,711 million (a 9% decrease as compared to December 31, 2019) and was partially offset by (i) a Ps.4,966 million decrease in the loss on net monetary position, decreasing from Ps.41,929 million in 2019 to Ps.36,963 million in 2020 and (ii) a Ps.1,733 million decrease in administrative expenses, decreasing from Ps.33,105 million in 2019 to Ps.31,372 million in 2020.

The decrease in net operating income from the year ended December 31, 2020 was mainly attributable to: (i) a Ps.29,819 million decrease in net income from financial instruments, from Ps.99,151 million in 2019 to Ps.69,332 million in 2020, (ii) a Ps.6,447 million decrease in other operating income from Ps.28,770 million in 2019 to Ps.22,323 million in 2020 and (iii) a Ps.4,785 million decrease in exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency from Ps.11,832 million in 2019 to Ps.7,047 million in 2020. Such decrease was partially offset by a Ps.29,215 increase in net income from interest from Ps.47,417 million in 2019 to Ps.76,632 million in 2020.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Net income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.32,427 million, as compared to net loss equal to Ps.8,020 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a Ps.40,447 million or 504% increase. This result was mainly due to net income (i) from banking activities (Banco Galicia) for Ps.30,336 million, (ii) from Ecosistema NaranjaX for Ps.889 million and (iii) from activities related to insurance services (Sudamerica Holding) for Ps.863 million.

Net gain per share for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to a Ps.22.62 per share gain, as compared to a Ps.5.09 per share loss for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

The return on assets and the return on shareholders’ equity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to a 3.46% and 20.81 %, respectively, as compared to a 0.61% loss and 5.76% loss, respectively, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

This result was attributable to (i) a growth of net operating income (31% increase compared to previous year) and (ii) a 7% decrease in personnel expenses.

The increase in net income for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily attributable to a higher net operating income from Ps.153,081 million to Ps.200,475 million (a 31% increase as compared to December 31, 2018) and was partially offset by (i) a Ps.4,098 million increase loss on net monetary position, increasing from Ps.37,831 million in 2018 to Ps.41,929 million in 2019 and (ii) a Ps.3,435 million increase in depreciation and impairment of assets, increasing from Ps.3,460 million in 2018 to Ps.6,895 million in 2019.

The Ps.47,394 million increase in net operating income was mainly attributable to (i) a Ps.62,809 million increase in net income from financial instruments from Ps.36,342 million in 2018 to Ps.99,151 million in 2019, (ii) a Ps.6,907 million increase in other operating income from Ps.21,863 million in 2018 to Ps.28,770 million in 2019 and (iii) a Ps.3,922 million increase in exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency from Ps.7,910 million in 2018 to Ps.11,832 million in 2019. This increase was offset by (i) a Ps.36,199 million increase in interest expenses from Ps.94,055 million in 2018 to Ps.130,254 million in 2019, and (ii) a Ps.6,523 million decrease in net fee income from Ps.44,756 million in 2018 to Ps.38,233 million in 2019.

ii) Interest-Earning Assets

The following table shows our yields on interest-earning assets:

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   Average
Balance
   Average
Yield / Rate
   Average
Balance
   Average
Yield / Rate
   Average
Balance
   Average Yield
/ Rate
 
   (in millions of Pesos, except rates) 

Interest-Earning Assets

            

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

            

Government Securities

   155,630    40.11    166,505    50.98    93,353    30.75 

Others Debt Securities

   1,385    73.29    1,838    48.31    3,541    22.56 

Total Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   157,015    40.41    168,343    50.95    96,894    30.45 

Repurchase Transactions

   35,871    25.00    18,170    53.46    16,479    9.42 

Loans and Other Financing

            

Loans

   491,386    30.23    587,663    27.12    631,995    24.80 

Financial Leases

   2,324    15.15    3,857    19.73    5,059    24.25 

Other Loans and Other Financing

   2,265    13.82    3,317    20.20    1,244    47.35 

Total Loans and Other Financing

   495,975    30.08    594,837    27.03    638,298    24.84 

Other Interest-Earning Assets

   44,279    30.39    54,603    24.76    43,578    16.26 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Interest-Earning Assets

   733,140    32.06    835,953    32.27    795,249    24.74 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Spread and Net Yield

            

Interest Spread, Nominal Basis (1)

     16.05      12.06      10.21 

Cost of Funds Supporting Interest-Earning Assets

     12.27      15.43      11.41 

Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets (2)

     19.80      16.84      13.33 

(1)

Reflects the difference between the average nominal interest rate on interest-earning assets and the average nominal interest rate on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest rates include the CER/UVA adjustment.

(2)

Net interest earned divided by average interest-earning assets. Interest rates include the CER/UVA adjustment.

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

The average of interest-earning assets decreased Ps.102,813 million, from Ps.835,953 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 to Ps.733,140 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, representing a 12% decrease. Of this decrease, Ps.96,277 million was due to a decrease in the average size of the loan portfolio. The average yield on interest-earning assets was 32.06% in 2020, as compared to 32.27% in 2019, a 21 bps decrease, mainly attributable to a decrease in the average interest rate earned on repurchase transactions (decreasing 2,846 bps as compared to 2019) and government securities ( decreasing 1,087 bps as compared to 2019).

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

The average of interest-earning assets increased Ps.40,704 million, from Ps.795,249 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 to Ps.835,953 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 5% increase. Of this increase, Ps.73,152 million was due to an increase in the average size of the government securities holdings, offset by Ps.44,332 million in the average size of loans. The average yield on interest-earning assets was 32.27% in 2019, as compared to 24.74% in 2018, a 753 bps, that was primarily attributable to an increase in the average interest rate earned on repurchase transactions and an increase in the average interest rate earned Government securities.

iii) Interest-Bearing Liabilities

The following table shows our yields on cost of funds:

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   Average
Balance
   Average
Yield / Rate
   Average
Balance
   Average
Yield / Rate
   Average
Balance
   Average
Yield / Rate
 
   (in millions of Pesos, except rates) 

Interest-Bearing Liabilities

            

Deposits

            

Savings Accounts

   252,515    5.77    264,364    4.24    279,693    2.48 

Time Deposits

   243,255    26.68    234,214    39.25    228,217    26.31 

Total Interest-Bearing Deposits

   495,770    16.03    498,578    20.69    507,910    13.19 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   19,815    12.64    38,319    13.19    42,944    12.80 

Debt Securities and Subordinated Debt Securities

   43,921    17.42    88,146    22.54    70,300    25.40 

Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities

   1,916    15.29    13,315    7.15    3,393    11.97 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities

   561,422    16.02    638,358    20.21    624,547    14.53 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

The average interest-bearing liabilities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.561,422 million, as compared to Ps.638,358 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 12% decrease. Such decrease was primarily attributable to (i) a Ps.44,225 million decrease in the average balance of debt securities and subordinated debt securities, which decreased to Ps.43,921 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 from Ps.88,146 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, (ii) a Ps.18,504 million decrease in the average balance of financing received from the BCRA and other financial institutions, which decreased to Ps.19,815 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 from Ps.38,319 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 and (iii) a Ps.2,808 million decrease in total interest-bearing deposits (savings accounts and time deposits), which decreased to Ps.495,770 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 from Ps.498,578 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

The average interest-bearing liabilities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.638,358 million, as compared to Ps.624,547 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, an increase of 2%. Such increase was primarily attributable to a Ps.17,846 million increase in debt securities, which increased to Ps.88,146 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 from Ps.70,300 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. This increase was offset by a decrease in the average balance of savings accounts deposits, which decreased to Ps.264,364 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 from Ps.279,693 million as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

iv) Interest Income

Consolidated interest income was composed of the following:

   For the Year Ended December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Cash and due from banks

   3    11    2    (73  450 

Corporate debt securities

   312    531    691    (41  (23

Government debt securities

   9,183    6,405    2,908    43   120 

On Loans and Other Financing Activities

   148,447    161,010    158,764    (8  1 

Non-financial Public Sector

   —      —      1    —     (100

Financial Sector

   3,126    4,300    4,406    (27  (2

Non-financial Private Sector

   145,321    156,710    154,357    (7  2 

Advances

   11,887    17,145    20,605    (31  (17

Mortgage loans

   13,076    17,497    12,463    (25  40 

Pledge loans

   1,422    956    891    49   7 

Personal Loans

   16,299    16,636    19,160    (2  (13

Credit Card Loans

   47,207    64,903    61,486    (27  6 

Financial Leases

   352    761    1,266    (54  (40

Others

   55,078    38,812    38,486    42   1 

On Repurchase Transactions

   8,862    9,714    1,563    (9  521 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Income from Interest

   166,807    177,671    163,928    (6  8 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Interest income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.166,807 million, as compared to Ps.177,671 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 6% decrease. Such decrease was the result of a Ps.12,563 million or 8% decrease in interest from loans and other financing and was partially offset by a Ps.2,778 million increase in interest income from government debt securities measured at amortized cost.

The average amount of loans granted for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.491,386 million, a 16% decrease as compared to the Ps.587,663 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. The average interest rate on total loans was 30.23% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to 27.12% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 311 bps increase year-over-year.

The decrease in interest earnings from loans and other financing was primarily a consequence of a Ps.17,696 million decrease in credit card loans. This decrease was due to the maximum annual interest rate imposed by the BCRA as a measure to reduce negative economic the consequences of COVID-19. For more information see – Item 4. Information on the Company –A. Business Overview – Argentine Banking Regulations – Limitations on Fees and Other Substantial Elements.

Additionally, the decrease in interest from loans and other financing was due to a Ps.5,258 million decrease in interest from advances and a Ps.4,421 million decrease in interest from mortgage loans, offset by a Ps.16,266 million increase in others loans (mostly comprised of overdrafts and loans for the pre-financing and financing of exports).

Interest income from banking activity amounted to Ps.144,685 million, a 4% decrease as compared to the Ps.150,712 million recorded in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

According to BCRA information, as of December 31, 2020, Banco Galicia’s estimated market share of loans to the private sector was 13.03% as of December 31, 2020, as compared to 11.50% as of December 31, 2019.

The following table indicates Banco Galicia market share in the segments listed below:

   For the Year Ended December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in percentages) 

Total Loans

   12.95    11.52    10.60 

Private-Sector Loans

   13.03    11.50    10.51 

(*)

Exclusively Banco Galicia within the Argentine market, according to the daily information on loans published by the BCRA. balances as of the last day of each year.

Interest income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX amounted to Ps.21,990 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, a 17% decrease as compared to the Ps.26,500 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

Interest income related to insurance activity amounted to Ps.727 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, a 37% decrease as compared to the Ps.1,145 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. This decrease was related to interest from debt securities recorded at amortized cost.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Interest income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was Ps.177,671 million, as compared to Ps.163,928 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, an 8% increase. Such increase was mainly the result of: (i) Ps.8,151 million in interest from repurchase transactions, (ii) Ps.3,497 million in interest from government debt securities measured at amortized cost and (iii) Ps.2,246 million in interest from loans and other financing.

The average amount of repurchase transactions for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.18,170 million, a 10% increase as compared to Ps.16,479 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. The average interest rate on repurchase transactions was 53.46%, a 4,404 bps increase as compared to 9.46% as of December 31, 2018.

The average amount of loans for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.587,663 million, a 7 % increase as compared to the Ps.631,995 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.This decrease was primarily attributable to the increase in overdraft, mortgage and credit card loans extended as part of the portfolio. The average interest rate on total loans was 27.12% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to 24.80% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 232 bps increase year-over-year.

Interest income from banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 amounted to Ps.150,712 million, a 25% increase as compared to the Ps.120,773 million recorded in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

According to BCRA information, as of December 31, 2019 Banco Galicia’s estimated market share of loans to the private sector was 11.50%, a 99 pbs increase when compared with the 10.51% for fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Interest income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX amounted to Ps.26,500 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, a 16% decrease as compared to the Ps.31,707 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Interest income related to insurance services amounted to Ps.1,145 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, a 31% increase as compared to the Ps.875 million recorded for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

v) Interest Expenses

Consolidated interest expenses were comprised of the following:

   For the Year Ended December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

On Deposits

   79,483    103,158    68,499    (23  51 

Non-financial Private Sector

   79,483    103,158    68,499    (23  51 

Checking Accounts

   —      —      —      —     —   

Savings Accounts

   11    9    11    22   (18

Time Deposit and Term Investments

   62,824    90,832    59,909    (31  52 

Others

   16,648    12,317    8,579    35   44 

On Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   1,744    3,340    4,526    (48  (26

On Repurchase Transactions

   304    921    463    (67  99 

On Other Financial Liabilities

   953    1,778    1,629    (46  9 

On Debt Securities

   6,097    19,389    17,407    (69  11 

On Subordinated Debt Securities

   1,594    1,668    1,531    (4  9 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Interest Expenses

   90,175    130,254    94,055    (31  38 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Interest expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.90,175 million, as compared to Ps.130,254 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 31% decrease. Such decrease was primarily attributable to a 23% decrease in interest paid on deposits, as consequence of low rate yields.

Interest expenses from deposits amounted to Ps.79,483 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to Ps.103,158 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.23,675 million decrease. This decrease was primarily due to increased interest expenses related to time deposits and term investments, which was equal to Ps.62,824 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, representing a 31% decrease as compared to Ps.90,832 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. Such lower interest paid on time deposits was due to lower rates as compare to the rates of 2019, as consequence the regulated rates product of the monetary regulation.

The total average interest-bearing deposits for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 amounted to Ps.495,770 million, registering a decrease of 1%. Of this decrease, Ps.11,849 million were saving accounts deposits. This decrease was offset by an increase in time deposits for Ps.9,041 million.

Out of total interest-bearing deposits (savings accounts and time deposits) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, the average interest rate of time deposits was 16.03%, as compared to 20.69% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 466 bps decrease.

Savings accounts deposits for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 accrued interest at an average rate of 5.77%, as compared to an average rate of 4.24% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 153 bps increase. The rate of time deposits for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was 26.68%, as compared to 39.25% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 1,257 bps decrease.

Interest expenses related to banking activity amounted to Ps.85,854 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to Ps.118,269 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 27% decrease.

According BCRA information and considering only deposits from the private-sector deposits in checking and savings accounts and time deposits, Banco Galicia’s estimated Argentine deposit market share increased from 10.17% as of December 31, 2019 to 10.28% as of December 31, 2020.

The following table indicates Banco Galicia´s market share in the segments listed below:

   For the Year Ended December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in percentages) 

Total Deposits

   8.42    8.23    8.85 

Total Deposits in Checking and Savings Accounts and Time Deposits

   10.28    10.17    11.33 

Private-Sector Deposits

   10.07    9.92    11.09 

(*)

Exclusively Banco Galicia within the Argentine market, according to the daily information on deposits published by the BCRA. balances as of the last day of each year.

Interest expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX amounted to Ps.5,150 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to Ps.13,232 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 58% decrease. This decrease was primarily a result of a decrease in interest expenses on debt securities issued by Naranja.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Interest expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.130,254 million, as compared to Ps.94,055 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 38% increase. Such increase was primarily attributable to an 51% increase in interest paid on deposits.

Interest expenses from deposits amounted to Ps.103,158 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 as compared to Ps.68,499 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 a Ps.34,659 million increase. This increase was primarily due to increased interest expenses related to time deposits and term investments, which was equal to Ps.90,832 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, representing a 52% increase as compared to Ps.59,909 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Average deposits recorded a decrease of 2% as compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, with a decrease of 5% in savings account deposits and a 3% increase in time deposits.

Out of total interest-bearing deposits (savings accounts and time deposits) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 the average interest rate of time deposits was 20,69%, as compared to 13,19% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 750 bps increase.

Interest expenses related to banking activity amounted Ps.118,269 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 as compared to Ps.79,349 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 49% increase.

Using BCRA information and considering only deposits from the private-sector deposits in checking and savings accounts and time deposits, Banco Galicia’s estimated Argentine deposit market share decreased from 11.09% as of December 31, 2018 to 9.92% as of December 31, 2019.

Interest expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX amounted to Ps.13,232 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 as compared to Ps.12,485 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, representing a 6% increase. This increase was primarily the result of an increase in interest expenses on debt securities issued by Naranja.

vi) Net Fee Income

Consolidated net fee income consisted of:

   For the Year Ended December 31,  Change (%) 
   2020  2019  2018  2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Income From

      

Credit Cards

   23,841   24,204   23,839   (1  2 

Deposit Accounts

   4,638   5,994   7,290   (23  (18

Insurances

   1,716   1,797   2,170   (5  (17

Financial fees

   202   427   626   (53  (32

Credit-related fees

   7,424   6,403   8,647   16   (26

Foreign trade

   1,999   2,132   2,023   (6  5 

Collections

   1,776   1,698   1,543   5   10 

Utility-bills collection services

   2,207   2,361   1,839   (7  28 

Mutual funds

   814   1,220   1,007   (33  21 

Others

   1,859   1,611   2,110   15   (24
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total fee income

   46,476   47,847   51,094   (3  (6
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total fee expenses

   (9,918  (9,614  (6,338  3   52 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net fee income

   36,558   38,233   44,756   (4  (15
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Our net fee income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.36,558 million, as compared to Ps.38,233 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 4% decrease. This decrease was mainly due to a 23% decrease in deposit accounts fees.

Fees related to deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.4,638, as compared to Ps.5,994 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.1,356 million decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in fees related to maintaining a checking account with us or our subsidiaries. Total deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were 6.2 million, as compared to 5.2 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 17% increase.

Additionally, credit- related fees, amounted to Ps.7,424 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, a Ps.1,021 million increase as compared to Ps.6,403 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

Income from credit card transactions, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was Ps.23,841 million, as compared to Ps.24,204 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.363 million decrease. Such decrease was mainly attributable to a decrease in fees recorded by Naranja.

The total number of credit cards managed for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was 13,688,430, as compared to 13,545,870 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 1% increase.

The following table sets forth the number of credit cards outstanding as of the dates indicated:

   December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (number of credit cards, except otherwise noted)   (percentages) 

Visa

   3,133,068    3,044,890    3,136,166    3   (3

“Gold”

   726,381    706,257    744,771    3   (5

International

   1,048,598    1,096,441    1,282,617    (4  (15

Domestic

   30,881    36,246    50,091    (15  (28

“Business”

   164,310    159,245    148,549    3   7 

“Platinum”

   644,364    591,817    359,477    9   65 

“Signature”

   518,534    461,274    550,661    12   (16

Galicia Rural

   17,864    17,965    18,188    (1  (1

American Express

   761,267    750,581    893,314    1   (16

“Gold”

   204,397    213,080    280,239    (4  (24

“International”

   104,712    123,451    184,437    (15  (33

“Platinum”

   198,697    178,638    270,068    11   (34

“Signature”

   253,461    239,246    158,570    6   51 

MasterCard

   1,162,879    1,177,111    1,050,041    (1  12 

“Gold”

   324,811    315,152    284,340    3   11 

MasterCard

   374,133    417,605    414,559    (10  1 

Argencard

   75    1,371    148    (95  826 

“Platinum”

   220,848    213,632    170,202    3   26 

“Black”

   243,012    234,463    180,792    4   30 

Naranja

   8,613,352    8,560,435    8,817,871    1   (3

Naranja

   4,619,426    4,606,528    4,777,286    —     (4

Visa

   3,513,542    3,452,555    3,503,792    2   (1

MasterCard

   415,901    455,038    491,231    (9  (7

American Express

   64,483    50,148    45,562    29   10 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Credit Cards

   13,688,430    13,547,148    13,915,580    1   (3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Amount of Purchases (in millions of Pesos)

   216,219,471    140,503,110    636,062,774    54   (78
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total fee expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.9,918 million, as compared to Ps.9,614 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 3% increase. Such increase was mainly attributable to an increase in expenses related to credit card transactions for a 12%, as compared to the previous fiscal year.

Net fee income related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.20,980 million, as compared to Ps.21,760 million for fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 4% decrease.

This decrease was mainly attributable to a Ps.1,357 million decrease in fees related to deposit accounts, from Ps.5,994 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 to Ps.4,637 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, fees related to deposit accounts were equal to Ps.4,638 million, as compared to Ps.5,994 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.1,357 million decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in fees paid for maintaining a checking account with us or our subsidiaries.

Net fee income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 amounted to Ps.16,670 million as compared to Ps.17,674 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 6% decrease. For more information about fees, please see – Item 4. “Information on the Company” –A. “Business Overview” – “Argentine Banking Regulations” – “Limitations on Fees and Other Substantial Elements”.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Our net fee income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.38,233 million, as compared to Ps.44,756 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 15% decrease. This decrease was mainly due to a 26% decrease in credit-related fees.

Credit- related fees, amounted to Ps.6.403 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.2,244 million decrease as compared to Ps.8,647 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. This decrease was a consequence of a decrease in fees charged by Ecosistema NaranjaX as a result of (i) the merger of accounts held by Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas and (ii) a decrease in fees overall charged due to regulatory restrictions.

Income from credit card transactions, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was Ps.24,204 million, as compared to Ps.23,839 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a Ps.365 million increase. Such increase was mainly attributable to an increase in fees recorded by Naranja, partially offset by the fees related to issuance of credit cards.

The total number of credit cards managed for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was 13,547,148 as compared to 13,915,580 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, mainly attributable to the merger of accounts between Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas.

Fees related to deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.5,994 million, as compared to Ps.7,290 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 18% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in fees related to the maintenance of checking accounts. Total deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were 5.2 million as compared to 4.7 million for the fiscal year ended December 31,2018, a 9% increase.

Total fee expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.9,614 million, as compared to Ps.6,338 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 52% increase. Such increase was mainly attributable to an increase in expenses related to credit card transactions.

Net fee income related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.21,760 million, as compared to Ps.26,131 million for fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 17% decrease.

This decrease was mainly attributable to a Ps.2,034 million decrease in fees related to credit cards transactions, from Ps.13,635 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 to Ps.11,601 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. This decrease was due to lower fees recorded by the issuance of credit cards.

Fees related to deposit accounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 amounted to Ps.5,994 million, as compared to Ps.4,423 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 36% increase. This decrease was primarily attributable to smaller amounts of total fees received for the maintenance of checking accounts.

Net fee income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 amounted to Ps.17,674 million, as compared to Ps.18,702 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 5% decrease. This decrease was primarily the result of decrease in consumption by credit card users and a decrease in the number of credit cards issued due to the merger with Tarjeta Nevada.

vii) Net Income from Financial Instruments

Consolidated net income from financial instruments was comprised of:

   For the Year Ended December 31,  Change (%) 
   2020   2019  2018  2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Income from Government Securities

   62,141    84,885   29,127   (27  191 

Income from Corporate Securities

   4,722    12,698   3,236   (63  292 

Income from Derivative Instruments

   2,469    1,597   3,957   55   (60

Repurchase Transactions

   1,747    1,746   4,187   —     (58

Rate Swaps

   36    (149  (230  124   (35

Options

   686    —     —     —     —   

Income from Other Financial Assets

   —      (29  22   (100  (232
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Net Results from Financial Instruments

   69,332    99,151   36,342   (30  173 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.69,332 million, as compared to Ps.99,151 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 30% decrease. This decrease was due to a decrease in interest earnings related to Government securities for 27%, from Ps.84,885 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 to Ps.62,141 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.

The average position in government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was Ps.155,630 million, as compared to Ps.166,505 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 7% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to lower balances of securities (LELIQS) issued by the BCRA.

The average yield on government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was 40.11%, as compared to 50.98% for fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 1,087 bps increase. This increase was primarily attributable to a higher average yield with respect to Peso-denominated government securities.

These variations were mainly a result of net income from financial instruments related to Banco Galicia, which represents 95% of our total consolidated net result from financial instruments. Banco Galicia’s net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 amounted to Ps.65,986 million, as compared to Ps.95,152 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 31% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in income from Government securities.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.99,152 million, as compared to Ps.36,342 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 173% increase. This increase was principally due to an increase on income from Government Securities from Ps.29,127 million for the fiscal year 2018 to Ps.84,885 million for the fiscal year 2019, a 191% increase.

The average position in Government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was Ps.166,505 million, as compared to Ps.93,353 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 78% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to higher balances of securities (LELIQS) issued by the BCRA.

The average yield on Government securities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was 50.98%, as compared to 30.75% for fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 2,023 bps increase.

These variations were mainly a result of net income from financial instruments related to Banco Galicia, which represents 92% of our total consolidated net result from financial instruments. Banco Galicia’s net income from financial instruments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 amounted Ps.95,152 million, as compared to Ps.33,482 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 184% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in income from government securities.

viii) Exchange Rate Differences on Gold and Foreign Currency

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.7,047 million, as compared to Ps.11,832 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 40% or Ps.4,785 million decrease. This decrease was primarily the result of a decrease in foreign currency brokerage at Banco Galicia for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 equal to Ps.5,096 million as compared to Ps.10,460 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 49% decrease. Such decrease in foreign currency brokerage was due to the restrictions placed on the purchase of foreign currency. For more information see – Item 4. Information on the Company –A. Business Overview – Government Regulations – Foreign Exchange Market.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.11,832 million, as compared to Ps.7,910 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 a 50% or

Ps.3,922 million increase. This was primarily the result of an increase in foreign currency brokerage at Banco Galicia for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 equal to Ps.10,460 million, as compared to Ps.5,042 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 37% increase.

ix) Other Operating Income

The following table sets forth the various components of other operating income.

   For the Year Ended December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Other financial income (1) (2)

   579    1,578    353    (63  347 

Commission on Product Package (1)

   6,297    5,685    5,719    11   (1

Rental of safe deposit boxes (1)

   1,295    1,011    1,081    28   (6

Other fee income (1)

   4,238    3,341    6,177    27   (46

Other adjustments and interest on miscellaneous receivables

   5,246    3,110    3,350    69   (7

Income for sale of non-currents assets held for sale

   —      9,676    1,027    (100  842 

Other

   4,668    4,369    4,156    7   5 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total other operating income

   22,323    28,770    21,863    (22  32 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

1)

Item included for calculating the efficiency ratio.

2)

Item included for calculating the financial margin.

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Other operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.22,323 million, as compared to Ps.28,770 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 22% decrease. This decrease was mainly the result of a decrease in income from the sale of non-current assets held for sale for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, a 100% decrease.

The decrease on the sale of non-current assets held for sale was due to Ps.9,676 million obtained from the sale of 51% of the stake in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A., which represented 34% of other operating income during the fiscal year 2019.

Other operating income related to banking activity was equal to Ps.17,173 million, as compared to Ps.23,727 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 28% decrease, mainly attributable to the result of the sale of 51% of the stake on Prisma Medios de Pago S.A, during the fiscal year 2019.

Other operating income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.3,475 million, as compared to Ps.4,922 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 29% decrease.

Other operating income related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.505 million, as compared to Ps.539 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 6% decrease.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Other operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.28,770 million, as compared to Ps.21,863 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 32% increase. This increase was mainly the result of an increase in income from the sale of non-current assets held for sale for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, which was equal to Ps.9,676 million, as compared to Ps.1,027 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 842% increase. The increase in the sale of non-current assets held for sale was due to Ps.9,676 million obtained from the sale of 51% of the stake in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A., which represented 34% of other operating income.

Other operating income related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.23,727 million, as compared to Ps.14,554 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 a 63% increase, mainly attributable to the result of the sale of 51% of the stake on Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.

Other operating income related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.4,922 million, as compared to Ps.7,711 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 36% decrease.

Other operating income related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.539 million, as compared to Ps.343 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 57% increase.

x) Income from Insurance Activities

The following table shows the results generated by insurance activities:

   For the Year Ended December 31,  Change (%) 
   2020  2019  2018  2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Premiums and Surcharges Accrued

   7,789   7,607   9,816   2   (23

Claims Accrued

   (1,127  (1,053  (1,122  7   (6

Surrenders

   (17  (18  (12  (6  50 

Life and Ordinary Annuities

   (13  (16  (18  (19  (11

Underwriting and Operating Expenses

   (1,065  (1,515  (2,691  (30  (44

Other Income and Expenses

   (65  (4  36   1,525   (111
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Income from Insurance Activities

   5,502   5,001   6,009   10   (17
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Income from insurance activities (excluding administrative expenses and taxes, net of eliminations related to related-party transactions) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.5,502 million, as compared to Ps.5,001 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 10% increase. This increase was mainly due to lower underwriting and operating expenses, which for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.1,065 million, as compared to Ps.1,515 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 a 30% decrease.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Income from insurance activities (excluding administrative expenses and taxes, net of eliminations related to related-party transactions) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.5,001 million as compared to Ps.6,009 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 17% decrease. This decrease was mainly due to the decrease in the volume of earned premiums and surcharges as consequence of the decrease in the amount of policies providing by the products of CFA, resulting from the sale of its stake, a decrease which began in 2017.

xi) Loan and Other Receivables Loss Provisions

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Loan and other receivables loss provisions for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.34,680 million, as compared to Ps.30,228 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 15% increase. This increase was primarily related higher charges from banking activity, offset by lower charges from Ecosistema NaranjaX.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to banking activity were equal to Ps.29,972 million, as compared to Ps.22,229 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 35% increase. This result was due to an additional loss provision due to the COVID-19.

Since March 2020, the BCRA implemented a series of measures to reduce the economic consequences of COVID-19 pandemic, among which are the deferral of payments and suspension of the collection of punitive interest in the case of default in payments of loan installments credit cards loans are excluded. Thus, considering the adverse economic context that the country is going through, the borrower credit uncertainty and measures issued by the BCRA, Banco Galicia recognized an additional credit loss provision calculated using the statistical model of ECL on the deferred loan portfolio amounts, which shows the potential impairment due to the macroeconomic context, once the protective measures currently implemented are lifted for the BCRA. Banco Galicia measured the additional impact on the allowance from the estimation of the expected credit loss of loan portfolio which has deferred payments, based on new probabilities of default (PD) estimated depending on actual default (without deferrals) and the projected performance of the affected products, modifying the staging classification.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, were equal to Ps.4,725 million, as compared to Ps.8,089 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 42% decrease. This decrease was related to a decrease in non-accrual portfolio due to an improved performance of Naranja clients.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Loan and other receivables loss provisions for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.30,228 million, as compared to Ps.34,136 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, an 11% decrease. This decrease was primarily related to lower charges for the evolution of used parameters for PD, EAD and LGD, partially offset by a charge generated for changes to model assumptions and methodologies, as compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.22,229 million, as compared to Ps.22,771 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 2% decrease. This decrease was due primarily to lower charges for the evolution of used parameters for PD, EAD and LGD related to retail portfolio, partially offset by a charge generated for changes to model assumptions and methodologies, as compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.8,089 million as compared to Ps.11,202 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 28% decrease. This decrease was related to lower charges for the change in the parameters used for PD, EAD and LGD, as compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

xii) Personnel Expenses

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Personnel expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.31,825 million, as compared to Ps.33,285 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a Ps.1,460 million decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a 5% decrease in the number of employees.

Personnel expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.22,090 million, as compared to Ps.24,304 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 9% decrease, due to a decrease in the number of employees.

Personnel expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.8,080 million as compared to Ps.7,544 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 7% increase. This increase was due to hiring more employees in Naranja X.

Personnel expenses related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.1,218 million as compared to Ps.1,109 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 10% increase.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Personnel expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.33,285 million, as compared to Ps.35,658 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a Ps.2,373 million decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a 5% decrease in the number of employees.

Personnel expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.24,304 million, as compared to Ps.24,155 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 1% increase.

Personnel expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.7,544 million as compared to Ps.10,034 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 25% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to the merger of Tarjeta Nevada with Naranja that started in 2018.

Personnel expenses related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.1,109 million, as compared to Ps.1,204 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, an 8% decrease due to a decrease in the number of employees.

xiii) Administrative Expenses

The following table sets forth the components of our consolidated administrative expenses:

   For the Year Ended December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Fees and Compensation for Services

   2,723    3,980    2,548    (32  56 

Directors’ and Syndics’ Fees

   473    222    365    113   (39

Advertising and Publicity

   1,743    2,960    2,676    (41  11 

Taxes

   7,362    7,052    7,056    4   —   

Maintenance and Repairs

   5,296    4,911    2,965    8   66 

Electricity and Communication

   2,371    2,484    2,013    (5  23 

Entertainment and Transportation Expenses

   58    172    214    (66  (20

Stationery and Office Supplies

   419    514    441    (18  17 

Rentals(1)

   309    136    1,731    127   (92

Administrative Services Hired

   4,231    3,370    2,710    26   24 

Security

   1,162    1,332    1,170    (13  14 

Insurance

   251    180    952    39   (81

Armored Transportation Services

   1,559    2,803   ��2,368    (44  18 

Others

   3,415    2,989    6,465    14   (54
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Administrative Expenses

   31,372    33,105    33,674    (5  (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

1)

As of fiscal year, 2019, due to the application of IFRS 16, rentals are recognized as a right-of-use asset and a financial liability, consequently the results are exposed in depreciation and impairment of assets and other receivables loss provisionsoperating expenses, respectively. The amounts for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equalyears 2020 and 2019 correspond to Ps.16,300 million, as compared to Ps.7,294 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 123% increase. This increaselow value rentals and short term rental (an exception from IFRS 16).

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Administrative expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.31,372 million as compared to Ps.33,105 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 5% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a (i) Ps.1,257 million decrease in fees and compensation for services, (ii) Ps.1,244 million decrease in armored transportation services and (iii) Ps.1,217 million decrease in advertising and publicity.

Fees and compensation for services for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.2,723 million, as compared to Ps.3,980 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 32% decrease. This decrease was due to the hiring of consultants for digital transformation projects during 2019.

Armored transportation services for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.1,559 million, as compared to Ps.2,803 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 44% decrease. Such decrease was due to the fact that in 2019 there were additional expenses related to the transportation of banknotes abroad.

Advertising and publicity expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.1,743 million, as compared to Ps.2,960 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 41% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to an increase in the amount of consumer loans in arrears and an increase in costs associated with compliance on current loans as a consequence of fewer advertising campaigns during 2020 due to the COVID-19 context.

Administrative expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.21,429 million, as compared to Ps.23,885 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 10% decrease.

Administrative expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.8,679 million, as compared to Ps.8,248 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 5% increase.

Administrative expenses related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.657 million, as compared to Ps.712 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, an 8% decrease.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Administrative expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.33,105 million, as compared to Ps.33,674 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 2% decrease. This decrease was attributable to (i) Ps.3,476 million decrease in other administrative expenses, primarily attributable to a drop in Ecosistema NaranjaX’ s fund transfers and (ii) Ps.1,595 million decrease in rentals, as consequence of the application of IFRS 16. This decrease was partially offset by (i) Ps.1,946 million increase in maintenance and repairs and (ii) Ps.1,432 million increase in fees and compensation for services.

Maintenance and repairs for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.4,911 million as compared to Ps.2,965 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 66% increase. This increase was as consequence of higher expenses related to the maintenance of systems related to Banco Galicia.

Fees and compensation for services for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.3,980 million, as compared to Ps.2,548 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 56% increase. This increase was due to the hiring of consultants for digital transformation projects.

Administrative expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.23,885 million, as compared to Ps.21,901 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 9% increase.

Administrative expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.8,248 million, as compared to Ps.10,378 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 21% decrease.

Administrative expenses related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.712 million, as compared to Ps.856 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 17% decrease.

xiv) Other Operating Expenses

   For the Year Ended December 31,   Change (%) 
   2020   2019   2018   2020/2019  2019/2018 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Turnover tax

   15,663    17,814    18,110    (12  (2

On operating income (1) (2)

   9,969    12,090    9,810    (18  23 

On fees (1)

   5,217    4,961    7,798    5   (36

On other items

   477    763    502    (37  52 

Contributions to the Guarantee Fund (1) (2)

   1,059    1,175    1,070    (10  10 

Charges for Other Provisions

   2,869    2,315    2,212    24   5 

Claims

   375    458    650    (18  (30

Other Financial Expenses (1) (2)

   286    2,499    1,145    (89  118 

Interest on leases

   399    511    —      (22  —   

Credit-card-relates expenses(1)

   4,487    6,046    6,161    (26  (2

Other Expenses from Services(1)

   3,921    2,979    4,456    32   (33

Others

   1,705    1,286    1,587    33   (19
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total other operating expenses

   30,764    35,083    35,391    (12  (1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

(1)

Item included for calculating the efficiency ratio.

(2)

Item included for calculating the financial margin.

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Other operating expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.30,764 million, as compared to Ps.35,083 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 12% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a 12% decrease in turnover tax on fees and an 89% decrease in other financial expenses, offset by a 24% increase in charges for other provisions.

Turnover tax for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.15,663 million as compared to Ps.17,814 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 a 12% decrease.

Other financial expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.286 million as compared to Ps.2,499 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 an 89% decrease.

Other provisions for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.2,869 million as compared to Ps.2,315 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 a 24% increase.

Other operating expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.23,844 million, as compared to Ps.28,555 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 16% decrease.

Other operating expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 were equal to Ps.6,671 million, as compared to Ps.6,378 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 5% increase.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Other operating expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.35,083 million, as compared to Ps.35,391 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 1% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to a 33% decrease in other expenses from services, offset by a 23% increase in turnover tax related to financial services and a 118% increase in other financial expenses.

Other expenses from services for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.2,979 million as compared to Ps.4,456 million for the fiscal year ended, December 31, 2018 a 33% decrease.

Other operating expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.28,555 million, as compared to Ps.26,853 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 6% increase.

Other operating expenses related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 were equal to Ps.6,378 million, as compared to Ps.8,387 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a Ps.2,009 million or 24% decrease.

xv) Loss on Net Monetary Position

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Loss on net monetary position for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.36,963 million as compared to Ps.41,929 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 12% decrease.

Loss on net monetary position related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.30,368 million as compared to Ps.33,702 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, a 10% decrease.

Loss on net monetary position related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.4,919 million as compared to Ps.6,306 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 22% decrease.

Loss on net monetary position related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.815 million as compared to Ps.1,036 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 21% decrease.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Loss on net monetary position for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.41,929 million as compared to Ps.37,831 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 11% increase.

Loss on net monetary position related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.33,702 million as compared to Ps.27,238 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 a 24% increase.

Loss on net monetary position related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.6,306 million as compared to Ps.8,052 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 22% decrease.

Loss on net monetary position related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.1,036 million as compared to Ps.1,174 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 12% decrease.

xvi) Income Tax from Continuing Operations

Fiscal Year 2020 compared to Fiscal Year 2019

Income tax from continuing operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.17,845 million as compared to Ps.17,751 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019; a 1% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.14,277 million as compared to Ps.16,724 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 15% decrease.

Income tax from continuing operations related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.2,245 million as compared to Ps.523 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a 329% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 was equal to Ps.513 million as compared to Ps.467 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 , a 10% increase.

Fiscal Year 2019 compared to Fiscal Year 2018

Income tax from continuing operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.17,751 million, as compared to Ps.14,477 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 23% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.16,724 million as compared to Ps.10,492 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 59% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to Ecosistema NaranjaX for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.523 million as compared to Ps.2,693 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, an 81% decrease.

Income tax from continuing operations related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was equal to Ps.467 million as compared to Ps.649 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, a 28% decrease.

A.3 Consolidated Assets

The main components of our consolidated assets as of the dates indicated below were as follows:

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   Amounts   %   Amounts   %   Amounts   % 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Cash and due from banks

   175,423    17    177,866    19    300,131    25 

Debt Securities

   155,420    15    89,431    10    159,030    13 

Loans and other financing

   526,434    50    488,144    52    592,075    50 

Other Financial Assets

   96,325    9    84,870    9    57,228    5 

Equity investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint businesses

   89    —      —      —      —      —   

Property, Plant and Equipment

   43,731    4    44,877    5    40,551    3 

Intangible Assets

   14,469    1    11,834    1    9,607    1 

Other Assets

   43,359    4    36,195    4    33,201    3 

Assets available for sale

   29    —      53    —      1,273    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Assets

   1,055,279    100    933,270    100    1,193,096    100 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Of our Ps.1,055,279 million total assets as of December 31, 2020, Ps.946,019 million, or 89.6%, corresponded to Banco Galicia and Ps.103,071 million, or 9.8% corresponded to Ecosistema NaranjaX (Tarjetas Regionales on a consolidated basis). The remaining was primarily attributable to Sudamericana on a consolidated basis. The composition of our assets demonstrates an increase in the amounts of main line items.

The item “Cash and Due from Banks” included cash for Ps.175,423 million, balances held at the BCRA for Ps.102,598 million and balances held in correspondent banks for Ps.108,491 million. The balance held at the BCRA is used for meeting the minimum cash requirements set by the BCRA.

Our holdings of debt securities as of December 31, 2020 was Ps.155,420 million. Our holdings of government and private securities are shown in more detail in Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B. “Operating Overview” — “Selected Statistical Information”— “Debt and Equity Securities”.

Our total net loans and other financing were Ps.526,434 million as of December 31, 2020, of which Ps.439,306 million corresponded to Banco Galicia’s portfolio and Ps.88,546 corresponded to Ecosistema NaranjaX’ portfolios, the remaining amount to secured loans held by Sudamericana. For more information on loan and other financing activities portfolios, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B. “Operating Overview” — “Selected Statistical Information”— “Loan and Other Financing Portfolio”.

A.4 Exposure to the Argentine Public Sector

The following table shows our total net exposure, primarily related to Banco Galicia, to the Argentine public sector as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and 2018.

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Government securities net position

   182,088    128,296    197,244 

Leliq

   128,325    79,153    146,805 

Botes

   3,580    14,744    18,798 

Other

   50,183    34,399    31,641 

Other Financing Assets

   61,039    41,027    140 

Repurchase agreement transactions - BCRA

   60,996    40,944    21 

Loans and Others Financing

   13    39    27 

Certificate of Participation in Trusts

   30    44    92 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total (1)

   243,127    169,323    197,384 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Does not include deposits with the BCRA, which constitute one of the increase in the size of the credit portfolio.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to banking activity were equal to Ps.10,873 million, as compared to Ps.3,899 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 179% increase. This increase was related to an increase in the loans in default and an increase in costs associated with compliance on current loans as a consequence of the increase in the size of the credit portfolio.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.5,349 million, as compared to Ps.3,273 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 63% increase. This increase was related to an increase in the loans in default and an increase in costs associated with compliance on current loans as a consequence of the increase in the size of the credit portfolio.

Personnel Expenses

Personnel expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.17,026 million, as compared to Ps.17,089 million fo the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a Ps.63 million decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to an agreement with labor unions to index employee salaries for inflationitems by which Banco Galicia complies with the BCRA’s minimum cash requirements.

As of December 31, 2020, the exposure to the public sector amounted to Ps.243,127 million, an increase of 44% as compared to Ps.169,323 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Excluding the debt securities issued by the BCRA, the Bank’s exposure amounted to Ps.53,806 million equal to 5% of total assets.

A.5 Funding

Banco Galicia’s and Ecosistema NaranjaX’ lending activities are our main asset-generating businesses. Accordingly, most of our borrowing and liquidity needs are associated with these activities. We also have liquidity needs at the level of our holding company, which are discussed in Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—“Liquidity-Holding Company on an Individual Basis”. Our objective is to maintain cost-effective and well diversified funding to support current and future asset growth in our businesses. For this, we rely on diverse sources of funding. The use and availability of funding sources depends on market conditions, both local and foreign, and prevailing interest rates. Market conditions in Argentina include a structurally limited availability of domestic long-term funding.

Our funding activities and liquidity planning are integrated into our asset and liability management and our financial risks management and policies. The liquidity policy of Grupo Financiero Galicia is described in Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—“Liquidity Management” and our other financial risk policies, including interest rate, currency and market risks are described in Item 11. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”. Our funding sources are discussed below.

Traditionally, our primary source of funding has been Banco Galicia’s deposit taking activity. Although Banco Galicia has access to BCRA financing, management does not view this as a primary source of funding in line with our overall strategies discussed herein. Other important sources of funding have traditionally included issuing foreign currency-denominated medium and long-term debt securities issued in foreign capital markets and borrowing from international banks and multilateral credit agencies. Banco Galicia entered into a master loan agreement with the International Finance Corporation (“IFC”) in 2016, for US$130 million, divided into two parts, one of them with the purpose of funding long-term loans to SMEs and the other part with the purpose of funding renewable energy project and efficiency energy power project. Additionally, Banco Galicia entered into master bond agreements with the IFC for US$100 million in order to expand its loan program for environmental efficiency projects.

Selling government securities under repurchase agreement transactions has been a recurrent source of funding for Banco Galicia. Although not presently a key source of funding, repurchase agreement transactions are part of the liquidity policy of the Bank. Within its liquidity policy, Banco Galicia considers its unencumbered liquid government securities holdings as part of its available excess liquidity. See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” —B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—“Liquidity Management”.

Ecosistema NaranjaX fund their business through the issuance of debt securities in the local and international capital markets, borrowing from local financial institutions and debt with merchants generated in the ordinary course of business of any credit card issuing company. In 2020, Naranja issued debt securities in an amount equal to Ps.6,632 million (approximately US$78 million).

Below is a breakdown of our funding as of the dates indicated:

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   Amounts   %   Amounts   %   Amounts   % 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Deposits

   676,396    64    536,034    57    754,146    63 

Checking Accounts

   105,028    10    91,985    10    83,467    7 

Savings Accounts

   316,983    30    241,460    26    416,535    35 

Time Deposits

   239,847    23    191,050    20    237,217    20 

Time Deposits - UVA

   5,565    1    1,021    —      4,156    —   

Others

   3,003    —      3,587    —      4,327    2 

Interests And Adjustments

   5,970    1    6,931    1    8,444    1 

Credit Lines

   13,833    1    30,936    3    40,725    3 

Argentine Central Bank

   21    —      31    —      60    —   

Correspondents

   1,927    —      509    —      3,316    —   

Financing from Local Financial Institutions

   7,036    1    7,621    1    11,978    1 

Financing from Foreign Financial Institutions

   —      —      14,254    2    15,653    1 

Financing from International Financial Institutions

   4,849    —      8,521    1    9,718    1 

Debt Securities (Unsubordinated and Subordinated) (1)

   38,728    4    60,910    7    83,251    7 

Other obligations (2)

   143,988    14    146,330    16    185,447    17 

Shareholders’ Equity

   182,334    17    159,060    17    129,527    10 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   1,055,279    100    933,270    100    1,193,096    100 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Each item includes principal, interest accrued, exchange rate differences and premiums payable, as well as UVA adjustment, where applicable.

(2)

It includes debts with stores due to credit card transactions, collections on account of maintaining wagesthird parties in line with inflation.Pesos and foreign currency, miscellaneous obligations and allowances, among others.

The main sources of funds are deposits from the private sector, lines of credit extended by local banks and entities, international banks and multilateral credit agencies, repurchase transactions mainly related to government securities, mid- and long-term debt securities placed in the local and international capital market and debts with stores due to credit card transactions.

As of December 31, 2020, deposits represented 64% of our funding, increase from 57% compared to December 31, 2019. Our deposit base increased 26% in 2020 as compared to 2019. During fiscal year 2020, the Ps.140,362 million increase in deposits was due to an increase in transactional deposits (deposits in savings accounts and time deposits, with increases of 31% and 26%, respectively). For more information on deposits, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B. “Business Overview” — “Selected Statistical Information”—“Deposits”.

As of December 31, 2020, credit lines from international financial institutions amounted to Ps.4,849 million, which corresponded to amounts received from the IFC pursuant to a loan agreement. Also as of December 31,2020, correspondents amounted to Ps.1,927 million and financing from local financial institutions totaled Ps.7,036 million, of this total Ps.3,165 million corresponded to amounts received from the BICE (Argentine subsidiary of development bank called BICE “Banco de Inversion y Comercio Exterior”), pursuant to a loan agreement and Ps.3,661 million corresponded to amounts received by Naranja.

Our debt securities outstanding (only principal) were Ps.38,728 million as of December 31, 2020, as compared to Ps.60,910 million as of December 31, 2019.

Of the total debt securities outstanding as of December 31, 2020, Ps.12,245 million corresponded to Peso-denominated debt, of which Ps.2,988 million corresponded to debt securities issued by Banco Galicia and Ps.9,257 million corresponded to debt securities issued by Naranja (which includes debt securities issued by Tarjetas Cuyanas). The remaining Ps.26,483 million of outstanding debt securities corresponded to foreign currency-denominated debt in respect of subordinated debt securities due in 2026 issued by Banco Galicia and the green bond with the IFC.

As of December 31, 2020, the breakdown of our debt was as follows:

   

December 31, 2020

 
   

Currency

  Expiration   

Annual Interest Rate

  Total(*) 
   

(in millions of Pesos, except for rates)

 

Banco Galicia

        

ON Subordinated(1)

  US$   07.19.26   (2)    21,654 

Green Bond

  US$   06.21.25   5.90%   4,829 

Class V Series II

  $   04.26.21   Badlar + 3.50%   1,732 

Class VIII

  $   08.20.21   Badlar + 2.25%   1,256 

Naranja

        

XXXVII

  $   04.11.22   Minimum 15% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%   2,645 

XLIV

  $   01.08.22   Badlar + 4%   3,609 

XLV

  $   12.18.21   Badlar + 5%   2,641 

Naranja(**)

        

XXVIII Series II

  $   06.09.21   Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.70%   362 
        

 

 

 

Total

         38,728 
        

 

 

 

(*)

Personnel expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.11,544 million,Includes principal and interest.

(**)

Debt securities absorbed as compared to Ps.11,356 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 2% increase.

Personnel expenses related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.4,791 million, as compared to Ps.5,011 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 4% decrease. This decrease was primarily attributable to the reorganization as a resultpart of the merger with Tarjeta Nevada.Naranja.

(1)

Principal will be paid in full on the maturity date, on July 19, 2026, unless redeemed in full, at the issuer’s option, at a price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal plus accrued and unpaid interest.

(2)

Fixed 8.25% rate per annum (as from the issuance date to July 19, 2021, inclusively); and margin to be added to the nominal Benchmark Readjustment Rate of 7.156% per annum to the maturity date. Such interest shall be payable semiannually on January 19 and July 19 as from 2017.

For more information see “—Contractual Obligations” below.

i) Ratings

The following are our ratings as of the date of this annual report:

December 31, 2020

Standard &

Personnel expensesPoor’s

Fix Scr

Fitch Argentina

Evaluadora

Latinoamericana

Moody’s

Local Ratings

Grupo Financiero Galicia

Rating of Shares

1

Banco Galicia

Counterparty Rating

raBBB-

Debt (Long-Term / Short Term)

AA+(arg)/A1+(arg)

Subordinated Debt

A+

Deposits (Long Term / Short Term)

raBBB -/ raA-3

Deposits (Local Currency / Foreign Currency)

AA.ar / BBB+.ar

Trustee

TQ2+

Naranja

Medium-/Long-Term Debt

AA-(arg)CCCCaa2

Tarjetas Cuyanas

Long-Term Debt

AA-(arg)CCCCaa2

International Ratings

Banco Galicia

Issuer Credit Rating

CCC+

Counterparty Risk Rating (Local Currency / Foreign Currency)

Caa2 / Caa3

Bank Deposits (Local Currency / Foreign Currency)

Caa2 / Caa3

Subordinated Debt Securities

CCC-Ca

(*)

See “—Contractual Obligations”.

ii) Debt Programs

On March 9, 2009, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s shareholders, during an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, and the Board of Directors created a global short-, medium- and long-term notes program, for a maximum outstanding amount of US$60 million. This program was authorized by the CNV pursuant to Resolution No.16,113 of April 29, 2009.

In August 2012, during an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, it was decided to ratify the decision made at the ordinary and extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held in April 2010 with regard to the approval of the US$40 million increase in the amount of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s global notes program. Therefore, once approved by the CNV, the amount was for up to US$100 million or its equivalent in other currencies. On May 8, 2014, the CNV, pursuant to Resolution No.17,343, granted an extension of the debt program for another five-year period. On August 6, 2019, the CNV, pursuant to Resolution No. DI-2019-63-APN-GE#CNV granted an extension of the debt program for another five-year period.

Currently, Grupo Financiero Galicia does not have any outstanding debt under its notes program that was put into place in 2009.

Banco Galicia has a program in place for the issuance and re-issuance of non-convertible notes, subordinated or non-subordinated, floating or fixed-rate, secured or unsecured, with a term from 30 days to up to 30 years, for a maximum outstanding principal amount of up to US$483.25 million. This program was originally approved by the CNV on November 4, 2005 and was mostly recently extended on January 26, 2017 by the CNV until January 26, 2022. Pursuant to Resolution No.18,480, the CNV also approved an increase of the maximum outstanding principal amount under the program to US$1,100 million. Pursuant to Resolution No.19,520, dated May 17, 2018, the CNV approved an increase of the maximum outstanding principal amount under the program to US$2,100 million and the modification of the terms and conditions of the same.

Banco Galicia, also has a program for frequent issuance of notes, approved by the CNV on November 13, 2019; and registered under the number 11 for a maximum outstanding principal amount of US$2,100 million.

During the 2016 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued certain subordinated Class II notes due 2026 for a nominal value of US$250 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to redeem the Bank’s outstanding subordinated notes due 2019.

During the 2018 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Series I Class V notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.4,209 million due 2020 and Series II Class V notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.2,032 million due 2021.

On November 20, 2020, Banco Galicia issued Class VIII notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.1,589 million due 2021.

Naranja has a Global Short-Term, Medium-Term and Long-Term Note Program for the issuance of up to US$1,000 million (or the equivalent amount in other currencies) that was approved by the CNV on May 10, 2018. Such notes may be unsecured or secured, denominated in Pesos, Dollars or, at Naranja’s option, in other currencies, with maturities of not less than 30 days after their issuance date. Also, they may be offered in separate classes and/or series and may be re issued, as applicable, in the amounts, at the prices and under the conditions to be established and specified in the applicable pricing supplement.

The program contains certain restrictions on liens, subject to the provisions established in the applicable pricing supplement with respect to each class and/or series of notes, so long as any note issued under such program remains outstanding.

Certain notes issued under Naranja’s program are subject to covenants that limit the ability of Naranja and their subsidiaries, subject to important qualifications and exceptions, to declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution in respect of its capital stock; redeem, repurchase or retire its capital stock; make certain restricted payments; consolidate, merge or transfer assets; and incur any indebtedness, among others.

As a result of the merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas, as of October 1, 2017, Naranja incorporated into its assets Tarjetas Cuyanas’ outstanding debt. Beginning on October 1, 2017, Naranja made principal and interest payments in respect of such debt.

As of December 31, 2020, Naranja’s total debt issued under both programs was equal to an outstanding principal amount outstanding of Ps.9,567 million (approximately US$113.7 million).

A.6 Contractual Obligations

The table below identifies the total amounts (principal and interest) of our main on balance-sheet contractual obligations, their currency of denomination, remaining maturity and interest rate and the breakdown of payments due as of December 31, 2020.

   December 31, 2020 
   Maturity   Annual
Interest Rate
  Total   Less than 1
Year
   1 to 3
Years
   3 to 5
Years
   Over 5
Years
 

Banco Galicia

             

Deposits

             

Time Deposits (Ps./US$)

   Various    Various   245,497    245,406    91    —      —   

Debt Securities

             

Class V Serie II Due 2020 (Ps.) (4)

   2021    Badlar + 350 bp   1,256    1,256    —      —      —   

Class VIII Due 2020 (Ps.) (5)

   2021    Badlar + 225 bp   1,657    1,657    —      —      —   

2026 Subordinated (US$) (5)

   2026    8.30%   21,036    —      —      —      21,036 

Green Bond - IFC (US$)

   2025    5.90%   4,818    1,071    2,141    1,606    —   

Loans

             

IFC Financial Loans (US$)

   Varios    Varios   4,848    2,605    1,963    280    —   

Other Financial Loans (US$) (6)

   Varios    Varios   —      —      —      —      —   

IDB Financial Loans (Ps.)

   Varios    Varios   109    43    56    10    —   

BICE Financial Loans (Ps.)

   Varios    Varios   1,312    856    442    14    —   

BICE Financial Loans (US$)

   Varios    Varios   1,818    363    721    137    597 

Short-term Interbank Loans (Ps.)

   2021    41.60%   210    210    —      —      —   

Corresponsales

   2021    0.00%   1,927    1,927       

BCRA (Ps.)

   2021    0.00%   21    21       

Ecosistema NaranjaX

             

Financial Loans with Local Banks (Ps.)

   Various    Various   3,589    3,589       

Debt Securities (Ps.)

   Various    Various   8,621    6,514    2,107     
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

      296,719    265,518    7,521    2,047    21,633 
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Principal and interest. Includes the UVA adjustment, where applicable.

(1)

Interest payable quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 269 bps Principal payable in full on February 17, 2020.

(2)

Interest payable in cash quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 298 bps Principal payable in full on May 18, 2020.

(3)

Interest payable in cash and principal payable in full on April 26, 2020.

(4)

Interest payable in cash quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 350 bps Principal payable in full on April 26, 2021.

(5)

Interest payable in cash semi-annually, fixed rate of 8.25%, up to July 19, 2021, when benchmark rate will be a 7.156% additional. Principal payable in full on July 19, 2026.

(6)

Borrowings to finance international trade operations to Bank customers.

i) Leases

The following tables provides information for leases where Grupo Financiero Galicia is the lessee:

December 31, 2020
(In millions of Pesos)

Amounts recognized in the Statement of Financial Position:

Right-of-use asset (1)

4,053

Lease Liabilities (2)

4,363

(1)

Recorded in the Property, Plant and Equipment item, for right of use of real property.

(2)

Recorded in the item Other Financial Liabilities.

December 31, 2020
(In millions of Pesos)

Amounts recognized in the Statement of Income:

Charge for depreciation of right-of-use assets (1)(2)

1,312

Interest Expenses (3)

399

Expenses related to insurance activityshort-term leases (4)

142

Expenses related to low-value assets leases (4)

167

Sublease Income (5)

10

(1)

Depreciation for right of use of Real Property.

(2)

Recorded in the fiscal year ended item Depreciation and Impairment of assets.

(3)

Recorded in the item Other Operating Expenses, Lease Interest.

(4)

Recorded in the item Administrative Expenses.

(5)

Recorded in the item Other Operating Income.

A.7 Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Our off-balance sheet risks mainly arise from Banco Galicia’s activities. In the normal course of its business and in order to meet customer financing needs, Grupo Galicia is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These instruments expose us to credit risk in addition to loans recognized on our consolidated balance sheets. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit and guarantees.

The same internal regulations and policies apply for commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit and guarantees. Outstanding commitments and guarantees do not represent an unusually high credit risk for Grupo Galicia.

i) Commitments to Extend Credit

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer at a future date, subject to meeting certain contractual terms. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require the payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent actual future cash requirements. We evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis.

ii) Guarantees

Guarantees are agreements and/or commitments to reimburse or make payment on account of any losses or non-payments by a borrower in an event of default scenario and include surety guarantees in connection with transactions between two parties.

iii) Stand-By Letters of Credit and Foreign Trade Transactions

Standby letters of credit and guarantees granted are conditional commitments issued by Banco Galicia to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Banco Galicia also provides conditional commitments for foreign trade transactions.

Our exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit, guarantees granted and acceptances is represented by the contractual notional amount of those investments.

Our credit exposure related to these items as of December 31, 2020 is set forth below:

December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.575 million, as compared to Ps.552 million2020
(in millions of Pesos)

Agreed Commitments

33,134

Export and Import Documentary Credits

2,483

Guarantees Granted

12,659

Responsibilities for the fiscal year ended Decemeber 31, 2017, a 4% increase.Foreign Trade Transactions


Administrative Expenses

The following table sets forth the components of our consolidated administrative expenses:

917

The credit risk of these instruments is similar as the credit risk associated with credit facilities provided to individuals and companies. To provide guarantees to our customers, we may require counter-guarantees, which are classified as follows:

 

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Fees and Compensation for Services

 

 

1,217

 

 

 

519

 

 

 

134

 

Directors’ and Syndics’ Fees

 

 

174

 

 

 

134

 

 

 

30

 

Advertising and Publicity

 

 

1,278

 

 

 

1,238

 

 

 

3

 

Taxes

 

 

3,369

 

 

 

3,523

 

 

 

(4

)

Maintenance and Repairs

 

 

1,416

 

 

 

1,036

 

 

 

37

 

Electricity and Communication

 

 

961

 

 

 

920

 

 

 

4

 

Entertainment and Transportation Expenses

 

 

102

 

 

 

131

 

 

 

(22

)

Stationery and Office Supplies

 

 

211

 

 

 

202

 

 

 

4

 

Rentals

 

 

826

 

 

 

738

 

 

 

12

 

Administrative Services Hired

 

 

1,294

 

 

 

1,287

 

 

 

1

 

Security

 

 

559

 

 

 

625

 

 

 

(11

)

Insurance

 

 

454

 

 

 

455

 

 

 

 

Others

 

 

4,218

 

 

 

3,616

 

 

 

17

 

Total Administrative Expenses

 

 

16,079

 

 

 

14,424

 

 

 

11

 

Administrative expenses for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.16,079 million, as compared to Ps.14,424 million for the fiscal year ended 2020
(in millions of Pesos)

Other Preferred Guarantees Received

66

Other Guarantees Received

285

In addition, checks to be debited and credited, notes, invoices and miscellaneous items subject to collection are recorded in memorandum accounts until such instruments are approved or accepted.

The risk of loss in these offsetting transactions is not significant.

December 31, 2017, an 11% increase.

2020
(in millions of Pesos)

FeesChecks and compensationDrafts to be Debited

7,001

Checks and Drafts to be Credited

10,519

Values for services for the fiscal year ended Collection

85,197

Grupo Galicia acts as trustee pursuant to trust agreements to secure obligations in connection with financing transaction undertaken by its customers. The amount of funds and securities held in trust as of December 31, 2020 is as follows:

December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.1,217 million, as compared to Ps.519 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 134% increase. Our remaining administrative expenses remained stable year-over-year.

Administrative expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.10,466 million, as compared to Ps.9,287 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 13% increase.

Administrative expenses related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.4,955 million, as compared to Ps.4,516 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 10% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase 2020

(in costs related to different services rendered.millions of Pesos)

Trust Funds

8,781

Administrative expenses related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.409 million, as compared to Ps.450 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 9% decrease.Securities Held in Custody

804,332

These funds and securities are not included in Grupo Galicia’s consolidated financial statements as it does not have control over the same. For additional information regarding off-balance sheet financial instruments, see Note 48 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

A.8 Principal Trends

i) Related to Argentina

The Argentine economy contract 9.9% in 2020 as compared to 2019. Following such contraction in 2020, a rebound in activity is expected for 2021. This rebound could be partially explained by last year’s statistical carry-over, due to the greater mobility of people in the second half of the year. The increase in exports and the partial return of private consumption are expected to be the key factors in the economy’s evolution. Any anticipated rebound is be subject to the performance and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccination campaigns and their effectiveness against any new strains, which will ultimately determine the need to reimplement isolation measures, with the consequent impact on economic activity.

To the extent that the economy does rebound in 2021, such rebound is expected to allow for the recovery of treasury revenues, which in combination with an elimination, at least in part, of the fiscal package used to contain the pandemic during 2020, would be expected to result in a reduction of the primary deficit from the 6.5% of GDP reached in 2020.

This year’s primary fiscal deficit together with the Government debt security upcoming maturity dates in the local market and with international organizations will worsen the situation in terms of national financing needs. Although the Government is hoping to refinance a portion of its outstanding debt, the evolution of the negotiations, in particular with the International Monetary Fund with whom it will negotiate for maturities of approximately US$53 million, will be crucial.

In respect of the IMF debt alone, US$3.6 million are due in 2021 unless a refinancing is agreed upon. The possibility of Argentina returning to the international debt markets still seems distant, since the “Country Risk” as determined by JP Morgan’s Emerging Markets Bonds Index is above 1.500 bps. The Treasury’s requirements would be covered again through the issuance of additional money, through the BCRA’s profit sharing and “Temporary Advances”, and through the issuance of new debt in the domestic market and access to lines of credit from international organizations.

After a year in which the monetization of the economy reached historically high levels as a result of the financing via money issuance of the fiscal package to contain the effects of the pandemic, more money supply could put upward pressure on domestic prices. For this reason, plus the accumulation of restrained inflation in the last months of 2020, an increase in inflation rates is expected during 2021.

Monetary levels of the fiscal deficit will also define the pressure on the different dollar exchange rates and will eventually define the levels of exchange gap. In a context where the real exchange rate does not appear to be excessively appreciated, and where a trade surplus similar to that of 2020 is possible, the levels of the exchange gap will be the key to the pressure on the official exchange market, and finally on international reserves.

ii) Related to the Financial System

The Argentine financial system will continue interacting mainly with the private sector, with short-term financing and financial products, maintaining high liquidity levels at the same time.

In the coming year, there is a risk of an adverse evolution of the pandemic at the local and international level. This could have an impact on the domestic activity level, world production and international trade. In this context, the impact on the payment capacity of Argentine families and companies could have repercussions on the profits of local financial institutions.

To mitigate the possibility of massive cuts in the payment chain, in the context of health policies establishing distancing due to the pandemic, it is expected that policies of (temporary) flexibility of the parameters with which bank debtors are classified will continue in 2021. In addition, the monetary authority will continue to promote credit lines for productive activity, with interest rates below the inflation expected by the market consensus. Meanwhile, the BCRA will also continue with its policy of minimum rates for time deposits.

Despite the points observed in the previous paragraphs, it is expected that banks will continue to show positive real benefits, such as those recorded in 2020, allowing capitalization levels to be maintained above the minimum capital requirements established by the Basel Committee. The institutions will continue working on expenses in order to improve efficiency indicators.

Although the current situation seems very challenging, a solid systemic position is expected to continue prevailing, in a context where credit growth relative to gross domestic product is not projected for the year that has begun. High levels of irregularity hedge through allowances and excess capital are a strength in a context of high level of arrears. Low leverage in companies and families, regionally compared, evidences the potential of Argentine financial institutions.

Within the above scheme, Grupo Financiero Galicia (through Banco Galicia) will further its objective of strengthening its leadership position in the market. The quality of its products and services provided to current and future customers will continue to be the central focus, in addition to continuing the process of improving operational efficiency as a key factor in generating value both for customers and shareholders.

iii) Related to Us

Similar to our expectations for 2020, we believe that 2021 will be a year marked with high levels of economic volatility and uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic appears to be far from being controlled and, therefore, we believe that the Argentine economy will continue to be impacted - possibly to a lesser extent than observed in 2020 - by the economic and social effects of the pandemic. In the same sense, we expect that at least part of the public policy measures taken during 2020 and as described herein will remain in place for 2021 in order to help spur economic activity and generate employment.

In addition to this, the results of upcoming legislative elections in 2021 may lead to legislative and other changes that require a review and reevaluation of both the impacts of such new policies on Argentina’s overall macroeconomic state as well as on Grupo Galicia’s particular lines of business.

In a context of weak economic recovery and pressure on prices, it is expected that the activity will continue to be regulated. On the one hand, in terms of directed credit through the different versions of financing lines for productive investments of small and medium companies -which nevertheless tend to include benefits or exemptions on reserve requirements- the presence of minimum deposit rates or maximum placement rates for certain lines and the limits on the placement of excess liquidity in economic policy instruments. On the other hand, the limits on the use of the credit lines as a source of financing for the development of the economy.

In Banco Galicia, these policies affect the financial margin, both in the net interest margin and in the lower profitability resulting from the placement of liquidity in bank notes (both in terms of volume and rate).

It is expected that in 2021 the exchange market will be under pressure again. Given this, another aspect to be considered in terms of the impact of regulations implemented during 2020 are the effects, already known and analyzed during 2020, on the results from foreign currency purchase and sale transactions. In addition, regulations that prevented increases in the levels of commissions charged or that restricted or prohibited the collection of certain commissions (e.g.: for the use of ATMs), may be gradually eased or relaxed as the Argentine economy improves.

Finally, although a certain rebound in the level of activity and employment is currently expected which could have a positive impact on our subsidiaries non-performing loan portfolios; it should be taken into account that the waivers and sources of funding and subsidies granted by the BCRA in 2020 prevented a true analysis of the real impact on the deterioration of our subsidiaries loan portfolios. For this reason, uncollectibility continues to be a significant risk, both at Banco Galicia and Naranja.

As a consequence, of the above-mentioned situation, we foresee the following impacts from COVID-19 during 2020 on Banco Galicia’s operations:

Fee income will be reduced, due to regulations limiting price increases, which could be offset by a moderate increase of volume.

Financial income will be affected by: (i) a lower average lending rate as a consequence of the directed credit at maximum interest rates, and (ii) a demand driven by subsidized credit. This could be partially offset by improving the structure of liabilities, due to the less attractive placement conditions. Additionally, and compared to 2020, the profitability from investing the excess liquidity will decrease, both due to the regulatory limits to the volumes invested and the downward trend in rates.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions could reflect a strong deterioration as compared to 2020.

Administrative expenses will not experience significant changes with respect to our estimate for 2021, considering the containment policy and the digital transformation that the Bank is going through by generating efficient captures.

As for volumes, the expansionary monetary policy with foreign exchange control imposed by the administration will probably continue generating dynamism in deposits, growing slightly above the system. As regards credit, although we do not believe that there is a very dynamic demand, considering the expected level of economic activity, credit boost policies and the need to rebuild working capital are expected to generate growth in terms of Gross Domestic Product when the economy begins to stabilize.

To conclude, we estimate that the COVID-19 pandemic will have a negative impact on Banco Galicia’s income, mainly as a consequence of: (i) the negative impact on income from financings, due to the reasons stated above; (ii) restrictions imposed by governmental regulations on fees charged; (iii) still higher loan and other receivables loss provisions; and (iv) impact of inflation on the foregoing and overall results.

Still, it is currently believe, based on the information known to date, that Banco Galicia’s current liquidity and solvency levels will allow it to cope with this situation in the short term, assuming it is under control by the end of 2021.

With respect to Naranja, as it is a credit-and-consumption-related business, it is certainly difficult for us to make any forecast for the coming months due to the current high level of economic volatility. Based on the 2021 Argentine budget this year is expected to be marked by the aftermath of the social and health crisis triggered by the COVID-19 in 2020 and the estimated impact will be reflected in a potential drop in the volume of operations or customer transactions. Therefore, revenue obtained from services will be affected.

Additionally, the Naranja access to financing through the capital market may be limited, which in turn would leave Naranja with less ability to offer financing plans or loans to its customers, with the consequent impact that would have on financial income. However, Naranja has so far been able to maintain the liquidity and solvency levels that would allow it to address the obligations incurred.

Loan and other receivables loss provisions will increase as a consequence of the general impact the COVID-19 pandemic will have on the economy and expected increase in unemployment rates.

In conclusion, we expect a negative impact on Naranja’s future income during 2021, mainly caused by the decrease of financial and service revenues, and higher charges for arrearage.

Regarding Ecosistema NaranjaX, it is important to point out that the company Naranja Digital has recently obtained the license from the BCRA to start operating. At the same time, Naranja X will continue deploying its new service model at additional branches, reaching 76% of the customer base. Finally, it will engage in further efforts on “Futuro del Trabajo” (Future of Employment)—an initiative focused on enhancing its employees’ experience by giving priority to their care and welfare.

On the other hand, Sudamericana Holding does not foresee significant consequences on their business during 2021 related to COVID-19 and derived by the new regulations, either in economic or financial terms.

As for Galicia Administradora de Fondos, it is estimated that, in 2021, it will obtain a growth of close to 70% in the volume of assets under management and will maintain its leading position in the Argentine industry by leading the Argentine fund market.

The current economic context suggests that investments will be concentrated primarily in money market or short-term bond funds, and to a lesser extent in the rest of the funds.

In addition, this line of business plans to continue to deepen and expand the marketing of its products through the use of distribution and placement agents, a niche that is expected to continue to grow.

The organizational structure within the company is expected to remain stable during the year, and this company plans to continue to focus on the automation of its services and on the roll out of technological changes being implemented across the Grupo Galicia family that are aimed at improving efficiency and their customer’s digital experience.

The operational management of the Group Financiero Galicia’s subsidiaries is stable, enabling us to comply with the needs and demands of our customers and of the control and supervision bodies. The implementation of work from home policies for our employees and our technological infrastructure have become invaluable tools to remain operative.

Grupo Financiero Galicia will continue with the objective of strengthening its leadership position in the market. The high quality of the products and services it (and its subsidiaries) provide to current and future customers will continue to have a central role, in addition to continuing the process of improving operational efficiency as a key factor in generating value for its customers and shareholders.

Likewise, the quarantine, social distancing and restrictions on face-to-face activities were driving forces to continue promoting and accelerating our digital transformation process. We continue working on projects that are designed to enrich the experience of our customers and employees. We plan to leverage new business lines like Naranja X, INVIU investment platform and MODO’s Systematic Payments play, and we remain focused on transforming Banco Galicia into a 100% digital platform, with the purpose of growing and capturing new customers.

The business growth of all the companies that make up Grupo Financiero Galicia takes place within the framework of a sustainable management. To this end, we will continue to seek new opportunities aimed at the common good and care for the environment.

The Board of Directors is closely monitoring this situation and taking all the required measures within their reach to preserve human life and our operations.

The analysis of these trends should be read in conjunction with the discussion in Item 3. “Key Information”— D. “Risk Factors”, and with consideration that the Argentine economy has been historically volatile, which has negatively affected the volume and growth of the financial system.

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

B.1 Liquidity - Holding Company on an Individual Basis

We generate our net earnings/losses from our operating subsidiaries, specifically Banco Galicia, our main operating subsidiary. Banco Galicia’s dividend-paying ability has been affected since late 2001 by the effects of the 2001-2002 liquidity crisis and its impact on Banco Galicia’s income-generation capacity. In addition, there were other restrictions on Banco Galicia’s ability to pay dividends resulting from applicable BCRA rules and the loan agreements entered into by Banco Galicia as part of its foreign debt restructuring. See Item 8. “Financial Information”—“Dividend Policy and Dividends.”

From 2002 to 2010 we did not receive any dividends from Banco Galicia, which is the primary source of funds available to us. On April 27, 2011, during the shareholders’ meeting of Banco Galicia, a distribution of cash dividends for a total amount of Ps.100 million was approved and the payment of distributions resumed. Most recently, on April 2019, we received from Banco Galicia a cash dividend of Ps.1,500 million (equivalent to Ps.2,717 million as of December 2020) for fiscal year 2018.

Due to the regulations recently passed by the BCRA within the framework of the measures taken by the government to respond to the COVID-19, the capacity of the Argentine financial system to pay cash dividends has been suspended until June 30, 2021 (subject to further extensions). As such, Grupo Financiero Galicia did not receive any dividends from Banco Galicia during 2020. However, Grupo Financiero Galicia did distribute dividends to its shareholders during 2020 as indicated below.

The extent to which a banking subsidiary may extend credit or otherwise provide funds to a holding company is limited by BCRA rules. For a description of these rules, see Item 4. “Information on the Company-Argentine Banking Regulation-Lending Limits.”

During fiscal years 2018 and 2019, Grupo Financiero Galicia received from its subsidiaries dividends for Ps.1,152 million (equivalent to Ps.3,094 million as of December 2020), and Ps.2,392 million (equivalent to Ps.4,140 as of December 2020), respectively. During fiscal year 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia received dividends for Ps.2,367 million (equivalent to Ps.2,725 million as of December 2020) from Sudamericana Holding S.A.; Galicia Warrants S.A.; Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.U and Tarjetas Regionales S.A. During February 2021, Sudamericana Holding paid a cash dividend of Ps.963 million and during March 2021 the Shareholders’ meeting of Galicia Warrants, Galicia Administradora de Fondos and Galicia Securities announced dividends to be paid in cash during April 2021, for Ps.40 million, Ps.800 million and Ps.150 million respectively.

According to Grupo Financiero Galicia’s policy for the distribution of dividends and due to Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and the fact that most of the profits for fiscal years 2018 and 2019 also corresponded to income from holdings (with just a fraction corresponding to the realized and liquid profits meeting the requirements to be distributed as per Section 68 of the Corporations Law) a proposal was made by the Board of Directors, to be treated at the next Shareholders’ Meeting to be held on April 27, 2021. The proposal was to absorb the negative results generated by the application of the accounting inflation adjustment method and to distribute a cash dividend for an amount that, when inflation adjusted, pursuant to Resolution 777/2018 of the Argentine Securities Exchange Commission, results in Ps.1,500,000,000 (which represents 101,7161%) being distributed with regard to 1,474,692,091 class A and B ordinary shares, with a face value of Ps.1 each, through the partial reduction of the discretionary reserve for future dividends’ distributions created during the year 2020.

For fiscal year 2018, the shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019 approved the distribution of cash dividends for Ps.2,000 million, (equivalent to Ps.3,515 million as of December 2020), which represented a dividend of 140.18% with respect to 1,426,764,597 class A and B ordinary shares of Grupo Financiero Galicia with a face value of Ps.1 each. Similarly, for fiscal year 2019, the shareholders’ meeting held on September 22, 2020 approved the distribution of cash dividends for Ps.1,700 million (equivalent to Ps.1,893 million as of December 2020), which represented a dividend of 119.1507% with respect to 1,426,764,597 class A and B ordinary shares of Grupo Financiero Galicia with a face value of Ps.1 each.

Due to Act. No. 27,260, Grupo Financiero Galicia neither reimbursed nor withheld any amount for tax purposes on the dividends paid for fiscal year 2018.

For fiscal year 2019, pursuant to what is set forth in the third paragraph of the article without number incorporated after article 25 of Act No. 23,966, replaced by article 4 of Act No. 26,452, when corresponding, Grupo Financiero Galicia was reimbursed of the amounts paid for the fiscal year 2019 in its capacity as substitute taxpayer of the shareholders’ subject to the tax on personal assets. Similarly, for fiscal year 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia will withhold, when corresponding, some amount for taxes on personal assets on the dividends to be distributed.

As of December 31, 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.8 million, short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities and foreign currency in an amount of Ps.645 million.

As of December 31, 2019, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and amounts due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.3 million, short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities and foreign currency in an amount of Ps.810 million (equivalent to Ps.1,103 as of December 2020).

As of December 31, 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and amounts due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.2 million and short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities and foreign currency in an amount of Ps.885 million, (equivalent to Ps.1,854 million as of December 2020).

During fiscal year 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia made capital contributions for a total amount of Ps.1,081 million (equivalent to Ps.1,167 million as of December 2020), Ps.1,000 million were applied to Tarjetas Regionales, Ps.4 million to IGAM and Ps.77 million to Galicia Securities.

For a description of the notes issued by Grupo Financiero Galicia, see —Item 5.A. “Operating Results” —” Debt Programs”.

Each of our subsidiaries is responsible for their own liquidity management. For a discussion of Banco Galicia’s liquidity management, see “Banco Galicia’s Liquidity Management-Banco Galicia Liquidity Management”.

B.2 Consolidated Cash Flows

Our consolidated statements of cash flows were prepared in accordance with IAS 7 (Statements of Cash Flows). See our consolidated cash flow statements as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 included in this annual report.

As of December 31, 2020, on a consolidated basis, we had Ps.378,820 million in available cash (defined as total cash and cash equivalents), representing a Ps.62,812 million increase as compared to the Ps.316,008 million in available cash as of December 31, 2019.

As of December 31, 2019, on a consolidated basis, we had Ps.316,008 million in available cash, representing a Ps.157,025 million decrease as compared to the Ps.473,033 million in available cash as of December 31, 2018.

Cash equivalents are comprised of the following: BCRA debt instruments having a remaining maturity that does not exceed 90 days, securities in connection with reverse repurchase agreement transactions with the BCRA, local interbank loans and overnight placements in correspondent banks abroad. Cash equivalents also comprise, in the case of Tarjetas Regionales, time deposit certificates and mutual fund shares.

The table below summarizes the information from our consolidated statements of cash flows for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.

   December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Operating Activities

   183,754    (26,226   188,241 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Investment Activities

   (6,782   (7,103   (7,510

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Financing Activities

   (35,106   (25,098   16,409 

Exchange income/(losses) on Cash and Cash Equivalents

   32,806    69,535    94,158 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   174,672    11,108    291,298 

Monetary loss related to cash and cash equivalents

   (111,860   (168,133   (94,623

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

   316,008    473,033    276,358 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

   378,820    316,008    473,033 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Our operating activities include the operating results, the origination of loans and other financing transactions with the private sector, as well as raising customer deposits and entering into sales of government securities under repurchase agreement transactions. Our investing activities primarily consist of the acquisition of equity investments and purchasing of bank premises and equipment. Our financing activities include issuing bonds in the local and foreign capital markets and borrowing from foreign and local banks and international credit agencies.

Management believes that cash flows from operations and available cash and cash equivalent balances, will be sufficient to fund our financial commitments and capital expenditures for fiscal year 2021.

i) Cash Flows from Operating Activities

   December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

      

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

   43,378    50,178    7,067 

Adjustment to Obtain the Operating Activities Flows:

      

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

   34,680    30,228    34,136 

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

Depreciation and impairment of assets for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.1,652 million, as compared to Ps.1,439 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 15% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the depreciation of property, plants and equipment equal to Ps.1,116 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to Ps.1,040 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

Depreciation and impairment of assets related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.1,019 million, as compared to Ps.918 million for the fiscal year December 31, 2017, a 11% increase.

Depreciation and impairment of assets related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.533 million, as compared to Ps.460 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 16% increase.


Depreciation and impairment of assets related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.91 million, as compared to Ps.48 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 98% increase.

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Change (%)

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2018/2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Contributions to the Guarantee Fund (1) (2)

 

 

511

 

 

 

438

 

 

 

17

 

Other financial expenses (1) (2)

 

 

546

 

 

 

320

 

 

 

71

 

Turnover tax (1)

 

 

8,648

 

 

 

6,977

 

 

 

24

 

On operating income (2)

 

 

4,684

 

 

 

4,017

 

 

 

17

 

On fees

 

 

3,724

 

 

 

2,801

 

 

 

33

 

On other items

 

 

240

 

 

 

159

 

 

 

51

 

Other fee-related expenditures (2)

 

 

5,070

 

 

 

4,797

 

 

 

6

 

Other provisions

 

 

1,056

 

 

 

360

 

 

 

193

 

Claims

 

 

310

 

 

 

199

 

 

 

56

 

Other

 

 

758

 

 

 

1,514

 

 

 

(50

)

Total other operating expenses

 

 

16,899

 

 

 

14,605

 

 

 

16

 

8,2846,8953,460

(1)

Item included for calculating the efficiency ratio.

(2)

Item included for calculating the financial margin.


Other operating expenses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.16,899 million, as compared to Ps.14,605 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 16% increase. This increase was primarily attributable to a 24% increase in turnover tax.

Other operating expenses related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.12,824 million, as compared to Ps.10,507 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 22% increase.

Other operating expenses related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 were equal to Ps.4,005 million, as compared to Ps.4,020 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 0.4% decrease.

Loss on Net Monetary Position

36,96341,92937,830

Loss on net monetary position for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.18,064 million, as compared to Ps.6,823 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 165% increase.Other Operations

33,80945,547(15,846

Loss on net monetary position related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.11,205 million, as compared to Ps.2,629 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 326% increase.

Loss on net monetary position related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.3,845 million, as compared to Ps.2,140 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 80% increase.

Loss on net monetary position related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.561 million, as compared to Ps.346 million of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 62% increase.

ProfitsNet Increases/(Decreases) from Joint Ventures

Grupo Galicia did not recognize any income in connection with profits from joint ventures as result of the sale of Nova Re Compañia Argentina de Reaseguros S.A. (sold in September 2017) and the reclassification of results from Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. to other operating income.

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

Income tax from continuing operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.6,913 million, as compared to Ps.7,319 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 6% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to banking activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.6,637 million, as compared to Ps.4,478 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 48% increase.

Income tax from continuing operations related to Regional Credit Cards for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.1,286 million, as compared to Ps.2,721 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 53% decrease.

Income tax from continuing operations related to insurance activity for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.310 million, as compared to Ps.411 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 25% decrease.


Net Loss from Discontinued Operations

Net loss from discontinued operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.291 million, as compared to Ps.322 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, a 10% decrease.

Net Loss

Based on the above our net loss for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 was equal to Ps.3,830 million, as compared to net income equal to Ps.7,278 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, a 153% decrease in net income.

Consolidated Assets

The main components of our consolidated assets as of the dates indicated below were as follows:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Cash and due from banks

 

 

143,309

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

87,045

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

121,184

 

 

 

27

 

Debt Securities

 

 

75,935

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

42,748

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

28,818

 

 

 

6

 

Net loans and other financing

 

 

282,710

 

 

 

50

 

 

 

284,355

 

 

 

58

 

 

 

245,703

 

 

 

55

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

38,304

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

39,042

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

20,416

 

 

 

5

 

Equity investments in subsidiares, associates and joint bussinesses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

287

 

 

 

 

Property , Plant and Equipment

 

 

19,363

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

18,209

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

16,348

 

 

 

4

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

4,587

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1,725

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,661

 

 

 

 

Other Assets

 

 

4,876

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

5,657

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

5,278

 

 

 

1

 

Assets available for sale

 

 

608

 

 

 

 

 

 

10,860

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

10,919

 

 

 

2

 

Total Assets

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

489,641

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

450,614

 

 

 

100

 

Of our Ps.569,692 million total assets as of December 31, 2018, Ps.511,338 million, or 91%, corresponded to Banco Galicia on an individual basis and Ps.52,713 million, or 9% corresponded to Tarjetas Regionales on a consolidated basis. The remaining 1% was primarily attributable to Sudamericana on a consolidated basis. The composition of our assets demonstrates an increase in the amounts of all line items.

The item “Cash and Due from Banks” included cash for Ps.143,309 million, balances held at the Argentine Central Bank for Ps.119,191 million and balances held in correspondent banks for Ps.2,929 million. The balance held at the Argentine Central Bank is used for meeting the minimum cash requirements set by the Argentine Central Bank.

Our holdings of debt securities as of December 31, 2018 was Ps.75,935 million. Our holdings of government and private securities are shown in more detail in Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.Operating Overview”─ “Selected Statistical Information” “Debt and Equity Securities”.Assets:

Our total net loans and other financing were Ps.282,710 million as of December 31, 2018, of which Ps.243,232 million corresponded to Banco Galicia’portfolio and Ps.44,051 corresponded to Regional Credit Card Companies’ portfolios, the remaining amount to secured loans held by Sudamericana. For more information on loan and other financing activities portfolios, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.Operating Overview”─ “Selected Statistical Information” “Loan and Other Financing Portfolio”.

Exposure to the Argentine Public Sector


The following table shows our total net exposure, primarily related to Banco Galicia, to the Argentine public sector as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 and as of January 1, 2017.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Government securities net position

 

 

84,003

 

 

 

42,671

 

 

 

26,748

 

Lebacs

 

 

54

 

 

 

26,944

 

 

 

16,158

 

Leliq

 

 

70,157

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Botes

 

 

8,976

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

4,816

 

 

 

15,727

 

 

 

10,590

 

Other Financing Assets

 

 

57

 

 

 

66

 

 

 

87

 

Loans and Others Financing

 

 

13

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

5

 

Certificate of Participation in Trusts

 

 

44

 

 

 

54

 

 

 

82

 

Total (1)

 

 

84,060

 

 

 

42,737

 

 

 

26,835

 

(1)

Does not include deposits with the Argentine Central Bank, which constitute one of the items by which Banco Galicia complies with the Argentine Central Bank’s minimum cash requirements.

As of December 31, 2018, the exposure to the public sector amounted to Ps.84,060 million, an increase of 97% as compared to Ps.42,737million for the year ended December 31, 2017. Excluding the debt securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank, the Bank’s exposure amounted to Ps.13,849 million equal to 2% of total assets.

Funding

Banco Galicia’s and the Regional Credit Card Companies’ lending activities are our main asset-generating businesses. Accordingly, most of our borrowing and liquidity needs are associated with these activities. We also have liquidity needs at the level of our holding company, which are discussed in Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—“Liquidity-Holding Company on an Individual Basis”. Our objective is to maintain cost-effective and well diversified funding to support current and future asset growth in our businesses. For this, we rely on diverse sources of funding. The use and availability of funding sources depends on market conditions, both local and foreign, and prevailing interest rates. Market conditions in Argentina include a structurally limited availability of domestic long-term funding.

Our funding activities and liquidity planning are integrated into our asset and liability management and our financial risks management and policies. The liquidity policy of Grupo Financiero Galicia is described in Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”“Liquidity Management” and our other financial risk policies, including interest rate, currency and market risks are described in Item 11. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”. Our funding sources are discussed below.

Traditionally, our primary source of funding has been Banco Galicia’s deposit taking activity. Although Banco Galicia has access to Argentine Central Bank financing, management does not view this as a primary source of funding in line with our overall strategies discussed herein. Other important sources of funding have traditionally included issuing foreign currency-denominated medium and long-term debt securities issued in foreign capital markets and borrowing from international banks and multilateral credit agencies. Banco Galicia entered into a master loan agreements with the IFC in 2016, for US$130 million, divided into two parts, one of them with the purpose of funding long-term loans to SMEs and the other part with the purpose of funding renewable energy project and efficiency energy power project. Aditionally, Banco Galicia entered into master bond agreements with the IFC for US$100 million in order to expand its loan program for environmental efficiency projetcs.

Selling government securities under repurchase agreement transactions has been a recurrent source of funding for Banco Galicia. Although not presently a key source of funding, repurchase agreement transactions are part of the liquidity policy of the Bank. Within its liquidity policy, Banco Galicia considers its unencumbered liquid government securities holdings as part of its available excess liquidity. See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”B. “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—“Liquidity Management”.


The Regional Credit Card Companies fund their business through the issuance of notes in the local and international capital markets, borrowing from local financial institutions and debt with merchants generated in the ordinary course of business of any credit card issuing company. In 2018, the Regional Credit Card Companies issued notes in an amount equal to US$1,000 million.

Below is a breakdown of our funding as of the dates indicated:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

Amounts

 

 

%

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

Deposits

 

 

360,097

 

 

 

63

 

 

 

296,367

 

 

 

61

 

 

 

277,078

 

 

 

61

 

Checking Accounts

 

 

39,854

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

48,899

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

51,554

 

 

 

11

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

198,891

 

 

 

35

 

 

 

148,250

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

97,877

 

 

 

22

 

Time Deposits

 

 

113,269

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

94,302

 

 

 

19

 

 

 

91,468

 

 

 

20

 

Time Deposits - UVA

 

 

1,985

 

 

 

 

 

 

890

 

 

 

 

 

 

153

 

 

 

 

Others

 

 

2,066

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,896

 

 

 

 

 

 

34,387

 

 

 

8

 

Interests And Adjustments

 

 

4,032

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

2,130

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,639

 

 

 

 

Credit Lines

 

 

19,446

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

11,619

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

12,717

 

 

 

3

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

29

 

 

 

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

 

Domestic Financial Institutions

 

 

7,303

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

4,167

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

8,616

 

 

 

2

 

International Banks and Credit Agencies

 

 

12,114

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

7,429

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

4,078

 

 

 

1

 

Debt Securities (Unsubordinated and Subordinated) (1)

 

 

39,752

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

27,407

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

29,338

 

 

 

7

 

Other obligations (2)

 

 

88,549

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

86,770

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

85,808

 

 

 

19

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

61,848

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

67,478

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

45,673

 

 

 

10

 

Total

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

166

 

 

 

489,641

 

 

 

163

 

 

 

450,614

 

 

 

164

 

(1)

Each item includes principal, interest accrued, exchange rate differences and premiums payable, as well as UVA adjustment, where applicable.

(2)

It includes debts with stores due to credit card transactions, collections on account of third parties in Pesos and foreign currency, miscellaneous obligations and allowances, among others.

The main sources of funds are deposits from the private sector, lines of credit extended by local banks and entities, international banks and multilateral credit agencies, repurchase transactions mainly related to government securities, mid- and long-term debt securities placed in the local and international capital market and debts with stores due to credit card transactions.

As of December 31, 2018, deposits represented 63% of our funding, up from 61% as of December 31, 2017. Our deposit base increased 22% in 2018 as compared to 2017. During fiscal year 2018, the Ps.63,730 million increase in deposits was due to an increase in transactional deposits (deposits in savings accounts and time deposits, with increases of 34% and 20%, respectively). For more information on deposits, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B. “Business Overview” — “Selected Statistical Information”—“Deposits”.

As of December 31, 2018, credit lines from international banks and credit agencies amounted to Ps.12,114 million. Of this total, Ps.5,644 million corresponded to prefinancing and foreign trade transactions; Ps.4,591 million corresponded to amounts received from the IFC pursuant to a loan agreement and Ps.1,879 million corresponded to amounts received from the IDB pursuant to a loan agreement.

Our debt securities outstanding (only principal) were Ps.39,752 million as of December 31, 2018, as compared to Ps.27,407 million as of December 31, 2017.

Of the total debt securities outstanding as of December 31, 2018, Ps.26,133 million corresponded to Peso-denominated debt, of which Ps.11,671 million corresponded to notes issued by Banco Galicia and Ps.14,462 million corresponded to notes issued by Tarjeta Naranja (which includes notes issued by Tarjetas Cuyanas). The remaining Ps.13,619 million of outstanding debt securities corresponded to foreign currency-denominated debt in respect of subordinated notes due in 2026 issued by Banco Galicia and the master bond agreement with the IFC.


As of December 31, 2018, the breakdown of our debt was as follows:

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Currency

 

Expiration

 

Annual Interest Rate

 

 

Total(*)

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except for rates)

 

Banco Galicia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ON Subordinated

 

US$

 

 

 

(2)(3)

 

 

 

9,768

 

Green Bond

 

US$

 

 

 

5.90%

 

 

 

3,851

 

Class III

 

$

 

 

 

(1)(3)

 

 

 

2,472

 

Class IV

 

$

 

 

 

(2)(4)

 

 

 

2,126

 

Class V Series I

 

$

 

 

 

 

(5)

 

 

 

4,898

 

Class V Series II

 

$

 

 

 

 

(6)

 

 

 

2,175

 

Tarjeta Naranja

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

XXXIII Series II

 

$

 

04.13.19

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar +5.40%

 

 

 

413

 

XXXIV Series II

 

$

 

06.29.20

 

Minimum 32% Rate/Badlar +4.67%

 

 

 

541

 

XXXV Series II

 

$

 

09.27.20

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar +3.99%

 

 

 

728

 

XXXVI Series II

 

$

 

12.07.19

 

Minimum 25.25% Rate/Badlar + 4%

 

 

 

649

 

XXXVII

 

$

 

04.11.22

 

Minimum 15% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%

 

 

 

4,083

 

XXXVIII

 

$

 

05.13.19

 

Minimum 29.05% Rate/MR20 + 4%

 

 

 

538

 

XXXIX

 

$

 

09.14.19

 

Minimum 26.75% Rate/MR 20 +3.4%

 

 

 

804

 

XL Series I

 

$

 

10.10.19

 

25.98% Fixed Rate

 

 

 

709

 

XL Series II

 

$

 

10.10.20

 

Minimum 27% Rate/Badlar + 3.69%

 

 

 

1,548

 

XLI Series I

 

$

 

11.15.19

 

54% Fixed Rate

 

 

 

905

 

XLI Series II

 

$

 

05.15.20

 

Badlar + 10%

 

 

 

347

 

XLII

 

$

 

09.30.19

 

58% Fixed Rate

 

 

 

1,234

 

Tarjeta Naranja(**)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

XXIV Series II

 

$

 

05.05.19

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar + 4.98%

 

 

 

172

 

XXV

 

$

 

07.26.20

 

Minimum 30% Rate/Badlar + 3.94%

 

 

 

431

 

XXVI Series II

 

$

 

10.24.20

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar + 4.00%

 

 

 

359

 

XXVII Series II

 

$

 

02.10.20

 

Minimum 23.5% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%

 

 

 

500

 

XXVIII Series I

 

$

 

06.09.19

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.05%

 

 

 

127

 

XXVIII Series II

 

$

 

06.09.21

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.70%

 

 

 

374

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

39,752

 

(*)

Includes principal and interest.

(**)

Negotiable Obligations absorbed as part of the merger with Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

(1)

As specified in the terms and conditions of the issuance, they were converted to $2,360,360 Investor assumes the exchange rate risk since the service of interest and principal is calculated on the basis of the principal amount in Pesos converted into US Dollars on each payment date.

(2)

Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.69%, which will be payable quarterly as from May 17, 2017.

(3)

Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.98%, which will be payable quarterly as from August 18, 2017.

(4)

Annual nominal fixed 25.98% rate; principal and interest will be settled in full upon maturity.

(5)

Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 3.5%, which will be payable quarterly as from July 26, 2018. Principal in respect of this Series will be repaid upon maturity.


For more information see “Contractual Obligations” below.

Ratings

The following are our ratings as of the date of this annual report:

December 31, 2018

Standard & Poor’s

Fitch Argentina

Evaluadora Latinoamericana

Moody’s

Local Ratings

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Rating of Shares

1

Banco de Galicia

Counterparty Rating

raAA

Debt (Long-Term / Short Term)

A1+(arg)

Subordinated Debt

A+

Deposits (Long Term / Short Term)

raAA- / raA-1+

Deposits (Local Currency / Foreign Currency)

A1.ar / Baa1.ar

Trustee

TQ2+

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

Medium-/Long-Term Debt

AA-(arg)

Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

Long-Term Debt

AA-(arg)

International Ratings

Banco de Galicia

Long-Term Debt

B

B2

Subordinated Debt

CCC

B3

(*)

See “Contractual Obligations”.

Debt Programs

On March 9, 2009, Grupo Financiero Galicia’s shareholders, during an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, and the Board of Directors created a global short‑, medium‑ and long‑term notes program, for a maximum outstanding amount of US$60 million. This program was authorized by the CNV pursuant to Resolution No.16,113 of April 29, 2009.

In August 2012, during an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, it was decided to ratify the decision made at the ordinary and extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held in April 2010 with regard to the approval of the US$40 million increase in the amount of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s global notes program. Therefore, once approved by the CNV, the amount was for up to US$100 million or its equivalent in other currencies. On May 8, 2014, the CNV, pursuant to Resolution No.17,343, granted an extension of the debt program for another five year period.

On January 30, 2014, Grupo Financiero Galicia issued its Class V notes, in two series, in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.180 million with the following terms and conditions: (i) Ps.102 million of Series I notes, with a variable interest rate equal to the benchmark rate (Badlar) plus 4.25%, with an 18 month maturity and (ii) Ps.78 million of Series II notes, with a variable interest rate equal to the benchmark rate (Badlar) plus 5.25%, with a 36 month maturity. Both series pay interest on a quarterly basis. In addition, certain of the Class V notes were subscribed for with Class III notes for a face value of Ps.20,622,455.


In October 2014, Grupo Financiero Galicia issued its Class VI notes, in two series, in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.250.0 million with the following terms and conditions: (i) Ps.140.2 million of Series I notes, with a variable interest rate equal to the benchmark rate (Badlar) plus 3.25%, with an 18 month maturity and (ii) Ps.109.8 million of Series II notes, with a variable interest rate equal to the benchmark rate (Badlar) plus 4.25%, with a 36 month maturity. Both series pay interest on a quarterly basis. In addition, certain of the Class VI notes were subscribed with Class IV notes for a face value of Ps.30,997,382.

In July 2015, Grupo Financiero Galicia issued its Class VII notes for an aggregate principal amount of Ps.160 million. Such notes mature on the date that is 24 months after the date of their issuance and accrue interest at a fixed rate equal to 27% from the date of their issuance through the ninth month after their issuance and at a floating rate equal to Badlar plus 4.25% from the 10th month of their issuance through their maturity date. The Class VII notes pay interest on a quarterly basis. The aggregate principal amount of such notes will be repaid upon maturity. On July 31, 2015 Grupo Financiero Galicia cancelled, upon maturity, all of its outstanding Class V Series I notes.

In April 2016, Grupo Financiero Galicia cancelled, upon maturity, all of its outstanding Class VI Series I notes.

On January 31, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia cancelled, upon maturity, all of its outstanding Class V, Series II notes.

On July 27, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia cancelled, upon maturity, all of its outstanding Class VII notes.

On October 23, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia cancelled, upon maturity, all of its outstanding Class VI Series II notes.

Currently, Grupo Financiero Galicia does not have any outstanding debt under its notes program that was put into place in 2009.

Banco Galicia has a program in place for the issuance and re-issuance of non-convertible notes, subordinated or non-subordinated, floating or fixed-rate, secured or unsecured, with a term from 30 days to up to 30 years, for a maximum outstanding principal amount of up to US$342.5 million. This program was originally approved by the CNV on November 4, 2005 and was mostly recently extended on January 26, 2017 by the CNV until January 26, 2022. Pursuant to Resolution No.18,480, the CNV also approved an increase of the maximum outstanding principal amount under the program to US$1,100 million. Pursuant to Resolution No.19,520, dated May 17, 2018, the CNV approved an increase of the maximum outstanding principal amount under the program to US$2,100 million and the modification of the terms and conditions of the same.

During the 2016 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued certain subordinated Class II notes due 2026 for a nominal value of US$250 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to redeem the Bank’s outstanding subordinated notes due 2019.

During the 2017 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Class III notes in an aggregate principal amount of US$150.5 million due 2020 and Class IV notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.2,000 million due 2020.


During the 2018 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Series I Class V notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.4,209 million due 2020 and Series II Class V noties in an , aggregate principal amount of Ps.2,032 million due 2020.

Tarjeta Naranja has a Global Short-Term, Medium-Term and Long-Term Note Program for the issuance of up to US$1,000 million (or the equivalent amount in other currencies) that was approved by the CNV on May 10, 2018. Such notes may be unsecured or secured, denominated in Pesos, Dollars or, at Tarjeta Naranja’s option, in other currencies, with maturities of not less than 30 days after their issuance date. Also, they may be offered in separate classes and/or series and may be re issued, as applicable, in the amounts, at the prices and under the conditions to be established and specified in the applicable pricing supplement.  

The program contains certain restrictions on liens, subject to the provisions established in the applicable pricing supplement with respect to each class and/or series of notes, so long as any note issued under such program remains outstanding.

Certain notes issued under Tarjeta Naranja’s program are subject to covenants that limit the ability of Naranja and their subsidiaries, subject to important qualifications and exceptions, to declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution in respect of its capital stock; redeem, repurchase or retire its capital stock; make certain restricted payments; consolidate, merge or transfer assets; and incur any indebtedness, among others.

As a result of the merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas, as of October 1, 2017, Tarjeta Naranja incorporated into its assets Tarjetas Cuyanas’ outstanding debt. Beginning on October 1, 2017, Tarjeta Naranja made principal and interest payments in respect of such debt.  

As of December 31, 2018, Tarjeta Naranja’s total debt issued under both programs was equal to an outstanding principal amount outstanding of Ps.11,805 million (approximately US$365.1 million).

Contractual Obligations


The table below identifies the total amounts (principal and interest) of our main on balance-sheet contractual obligations, their currency of denomination, remaining maturity and interest rate and the breakdown of payments due as of December 31, 2018.

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Maturity

 

Anual Interest Rate

 

 

Total

 

 

Less than 1 Year

 

 

1 to 3 Years

 

 

3 to 5 Years

 

 

Over 5 Years

 

Banco Galicia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time Deposits (Ps./US$)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

115,253

 

 

 

115,200

 

 

36

 

 

17

 

 

 

 

Bonds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes Class III Due 2020 (Ps.) (1)

 

2020

 

Badlar + 269 bp

 

 

 

2,226

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,226

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes Class IV Due 2020 (Ps.) (2)

 

2020

 

Badlar + 298 bp

 

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes Class V Series II Due 2020 (Ps.) (3)

 

2020

 

26.00%

 

 

 

4,209

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,209

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes Class V Series II Due 2020 (Ps.) (4)

 

2021

 

Badlar + 350 bp

 

 

 

2,027

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,027

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Green Bond - IFC (U$S)

 

2025

 

5.90%

 

 

 

3,745

 

 

 

 

 

 

832

 

 

 

1,665

 

 

 

1,248

 

2026 Subordinated Notes (US$) (5)

 

2026

 

8.30%

 

 

 

9,417

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,417

 

Loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IFC Financial Loans (US$)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

4,591

 

 

 

1,080

 

 

 

2,503

 

 

882

 

 

126

 

Other Financial Loans (US$) (6)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

5,644

 

 

 

5,644

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IDB Financial Loans (US$)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

1,879

 

 

 

1,873

 

 

4

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

IDB Financial Loans (Ps.)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

175

 

 

50

 

 

76

 

 

42

 

 

7

 

Linea Fontar

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

2

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BICE Financial Loans (Ps.)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

2,765

 

 

818

 

 

 

1,462

 

 

 

471

 

 

 

14

 

BICE Financial Loans (US$)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

115

 

 

11

 

 

57

 

 

47

 

 

 

 

Short-term Intrebank Loans (Ps.)

 

2019

 

Various

 

 

804

 

 

804

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corresponsales

 

2019

 

0.00%

 

 

 

1,584

 

 

 

1,584

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

2019

 

0.00%

 

 

28

 

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

2019

 

0.00%

 

 

1

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repos (Ps.)

 

2019

 

50.00%

 

 

53

 

 

53

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repos (US$)

 

2019

 

4.02

 

 

 

1,890

 

 

 

1,890

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tarjetas Regionales

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial Loans with Local Banks (Ps.)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

1,764

 

 

 

1,764

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes (Ps.)

 

Various

 

Various

 

 

 

13,222

 

 

 

5,160

 

 

 

6,845

 

 

 

1,217

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

173,395

 

 

 

135,962

 

 

 

22,277

 

 

 

4,343

 

 

 

10,813

 

Principal and interest. Includes the UVA adjustment, where applicable.

(1)

Interest payable quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 269 bps Principal payable in full on February 17, 2020.

(2)

Interest payable in cash quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 298 bps Principal payable in full on May 18, 2020.

(3)

Interest payable in cash and principal payable in full on April 26, 2020.

(4)

Interest payable in cash quarterly in cash, adjustable rate of Badlar + 350 bps Principal payable in full on April 26, 2021.

(5)

Interest payable in cash semi-annually, fixed rate of 8.25%, up to July 19, 2021, when benchmark rate will be a 7.156% additional. Principal payable in full on July 19, 2026.

(6)

Borrowings to finance international trade operations to Bank customers.


Off- Balance Sheet Contractual Obligations

Operating Leases

As of December 31, 2018, we also had off-balance sheet contractual obligations arising from the leasing of certain properties used as a part of our distribution network. The estimated future lease payments in connection with these properties are as follows:

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

(In millions of Pesos)

 

2019

 

 

821

 

2020

 

 

1,816

 

2021

 

 

575

 

2022

 

 

2,073

 

2023 and after

 

 

6,191

 

Total Operating Leases

 

 

11,476

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Our off-balance sheet risks mainly arise from Banco Galicia’s activities. In the normal course of its business and in order to meet customer financing needs, Grupo Galicia is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These instruments expose us to credit risk in addition to loans recognized on our consolidated balance sheets. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit and guarantees.

The same internal regulations and policies apply for commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit and guarantees. Outstanding commitments and guarantees do not represent an unusually high credit risk for Grupo Galicia.

Commitments to Extend Credit

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer at a future date, subject to meeting certain contractual terms. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require the payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent actual future cash requirements. We evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis.

Guarantees

Guarantees are agreements and/or commitments to reimburse or make payment on account of any losses or non-payments by a borrower in an event of default scenario and include surety guarantees in connection with transactions between two parties.

Stand-By Letters of Credit and Foreign Trade Transactions

Standby letters of credit and guarantees granted are conditional commitments issued by Banco Galicia to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Banco Galicia also provides conditional commitments for foreign trade transactions.

Our exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit, guarantees granted and acceptances is represented by the contractual notional amount of those investments.


Our credit exposure related to these items as of December 31, 2018 is set forth below:

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Agreed Commitments

14,947

Export and Import Documentary Credits

1,080

Guarantees Granted

16,293

Responsibilities for Foreign Trade Transactions

235

As of December31, 2018, the primary fees related to the above-mentioned commitments were as follows.

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

For Agreed Credits

122

For Export and Import Documentary Credits

69

For Guarantees Granted

82

The credit risk of these instruments is similar as the credit risk associated with credit facilities provided to individuals and companies. To provide guarantees to our customers, we may require counter-guarantees, which are classified as follows:

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Other Preferred Guarantees Received

6,796

Other Guarantees Received

296

In addition, checks to be debited and credited, notes, invoices and miscellaneous items subject to collection are recorded in memorandum accounts until such instruments are approved or accepted.

The risk of loss in these offsetting transactions is not significant.

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Checks and Drafts to be Debited

3,448

Checks and Drafts to be Credited

4,444

Values for Collection

27,626

Grupo Galicia acts as trustee pursuant to trust agreements to secure obligations in connection with financing transaction undertaken by its customers. The amount of funds and securities held in trust as of December 31, 2018 is as follows:

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Trust Funds

5,869

Securities Held in Custody

432,047

These funds and securities are not included in Grupo Galicia’s consolidated financial statements as it does not have control over the same. For additional information regarding off-balance sheet financial instruments, see Note 49 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

Principal Trends


Related to Argentina

In early 2018, Argentina was able to obtain one third of its financing needs for the remainder of the fiscal year after regaining access to the international markets in 2017.

With respect to the foreign exchange market, proceeds from foreign currency-denominated debt issuances represented the main source of foreign currency, until this trend reverted as a result of a highly volatile foreign currency exchange rate. Following the depreciation of the Peso during 2018, the exchange rate is expected to remain stable in real terms throughout 2019. With respect to monetary policy, following a difficult 2018, contractionary trends may continue until the market’s inflationary expectations are brought in line with Argentine Central Bank objectives.

As the financing goals for 2018 set by the Argentine Treasury were surpassed, we expect that during 2019 the Argentine Treasury will continue to focus on gradually stabilizing the Argentine government’s budget balance. Improvements in exports, together with a moderate increase in real salaries, are expected to contribute to an increase in economic growth in Argentina in 2019.

Related to the Financial System

We believe that the Argentine financial system will continue to increase its interaction with the private sector, which is expected to maintain its current capital structure, characterized by a focus on short term credit and high liquidity assets. We do not expect credit to grow in terms of GDP during 2019.

In terms of the financial reputation of the Argentine financial system, it is expected that the net results of the system in 2018 will enable the system overall to meet minimum capitalization requirements set forth in the Basel Committee regulations. Income from holdings, in particular those associated with returns on liquidity, is expected to be a main source of operating income in 2019 and it is also expected that banks will continue to improve their operating efficiency.

Portfolio quality indicators are expected to be influenced by macroeconomic factors, although a solid systemic position is expected to prevail, even as compared to other strong economies in South America.

We believe that the Argentine financial system will continue to demonstrate strong fundamental indicators in 2019. In addition, increases in hedging arrangements and excess capital will be a source strength to the extent loan portfolios in default continue to increase. Low leverage levels as compared to companies and individuals in the region demonstrate the potential for Argentine financial institutions to remain strong despite volatility in inflation and the Peso.

Related to Us

It is expected that the level of activity of all the subsidiaries of Grupo Financiero Galicia will be consistent with the overall expectations for the Argentine economy and the Argentine Financial System. Given that Banco Galicia is the most significant asset of Grupo Financiero Galicia, we refer to the trends related to Banco Galicia.

In 2019, Banco Galicia expects to continue its strategy of providing distinguishing experiences to its clients and offering high-quality products and services to satisfy the needs of each segment of customers, working to increase its volume of financial intermediation activities with the private sector and to improve its recurring operating results, controlling administrative expenses in an effort to improve operational efficiency and maintaining an adequate diversification and risk coverage.

The analysis of these trends should be read in conjunction with the discussion in Item 3. “Key Information”— D. “Risk Factors”, and with consideration that the Argentine economy has been historically volatile, which has negatively affected the volume and growth of the financial system.


B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity - Holding Company on an Individual Basis

We generate our net earnings/losses from our operating subsidiaries, specifically Banco Galicia, our main operating subsidiary. Banco Galicia’s dividend-paying ability has been affected since late 2001 by the effects of the 2001-2002 liquidity crisis and its impact on Banco Galicia’s income-generation capacity. In addition, there were other restrictions on Banco Galicia’s ability to pay dividends resulting from applicable Argentine Central Bank rules and the loan agreements entered into by Banco Galicia as part of its foreign debt restructuring. See Item 8. “Financial Information”─A. “Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information”— “Dividend Policy and Dividends.”

From 2002 to 2010 we did not receive any dividends from Banco Galicia, which is the primary source of funds available to us. On April 27, 2011, during the shareholders’ meeting of Banco Galicia, a distribution of cash dividends for a total amount of Ps.100 million was approved. Since that date, regulations issued by the Argentine Central Bank have affected Banco Galicia´s ability to pay dividends.

On April 25, 2017, Banco Galicia’s shareholders approved the distribution of cash dividends for a total amount of Ps.1,500 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, which is expected to be distributed to shareholders in May 2019.

The extent to which a banking subsidiary may extend credit or otherwise provide funds to a holding company is limited by Argentine Central Bank rules. For a description of these rules, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”─B.”Business Overview”─”Argentine Banking Regulation”─”Lending Limits.”

For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, Grupo Financiero Galicia received dividends in an amount of Ps.431 million (equivalent to Ps.847 million as of December 2018), and Ps.658 million (equivalent to Ps.1,084 million as of December 2018), respectively, from its subsidiaries. For the year ended December 31, 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia received dividends in an amount of Ps.1,152 million (equivalent to Ps.1,478 million as of December 2018) and, during March 2019, Grupo Financiero Galicia received dividends in an amount of Ps.365 million.

In accordance with Grupo Financiero Galicia’s policy for the distribution of dividends and due to Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition for the year ended December 31, 2018 and the fact that the majority of profits for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 corresponded to income from holdings (with just a fraction corresponding to the realized and liquid profits meeting the requirements to be distributed as per Section 68 of the Corporations Law), a distribution of cash dividends in an amount of Ps.2,000 million was approved at the April 25, 2019 shareholders’ meeting, which is expected to be paid in May 2019. This amount represents 140.18% with regard to 1,426,764,597 class A and B ordinary shares with a face value of Ps.1 each.

For fiscal year 2016, the shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2017 approved the distribution of cash dividends in an amount of Ps.240 million, equivalent to Ps.406 million as of December 2018, which represents a dividend of 18.46% with respect to 1,300,264,597 class A and B ordinary shares of Grupo Financiero Galicia with a face value of Ps.1 each. Similarly, for fiscal year 2017, the shareholders’ meeting held on April 24, 2018 approved the distribution of cash dividends for Ps.1,200 million, equivalent to Ps.1,617 million as of December 2018, which represents a dividend of 84.11% with respect to 1,426,764,597 class A and B ordinary shares of Grupo Financiero Galicia with a face value of Ps.1 each.

Due to Act. No.27,260, Grupo Financiero Galicia neither reimbursed nor withheld any amount for tax purposes on the dividends paid for fiscal year 2016 and 2017. For fiscal year 2018, due to Act. No.27,430, Grupo Financiero Galicia may withhold some amount for tax purposes on the dividends to be distributed.

As of December 31, 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and amounts due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.2 million and short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities in an amount of Ps.885 million.


As of December 31, 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.4 million and short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities in an amount of Ps.1,663 million, equivalent to Ps.2,455 million as of December 2018.

As of December 31, 2016, Grupo Financiero Galicia, on an individual basis, had cash and due from banks in an amount of Ps.0.3 million and short-term investments made up of special checking account deposits, mutual funds and government securities in an amount of Ps.166 million, equivalent to Ps.306 million as of December 2018.

For a description of the notes issued by Grupo Financiero Galicia, see Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”─.A.“Operating Results”─”Funding”─”Debt Programs”.

Each of our subsidiaries is responsible for their own liquidity management. For a discussion of Banco Galicia’s liquidity management, see “Liquidity Management─Banco Galicia (Unconsolidated) Liquidity Management”.

Consolidated Cash Flows

Our consolidated statements of cash flows were prepared in accordance with IAS 7 (Statements of Cash Flows). See our consolidated cash flow statements as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, included in this annual report.

As of December 31, 2018, on a consolidated basis, we had Ps.225,868 million in available cash (defined as total cash and cash equivalents), representing a Ps.93,910 million increase as compared to the Ps.131,958 million in available cash as of December 31, 2017.

Cash equivalents are comprised of the following: Argentine Central Bank debt instruments (Nobac and Lebac) having a remaining maturity that does not exceed 90 days, securities in connection with reverse repurchase agreement transactions with the Argentine Central Bank, local interbank loans and overnight placements in correspondent banks abroad. Cash equivalents also comprise, in the case of the Regional Credit Card Companies, time deposit certificates and mutual fund shares.

The table below summarizes the information from our consolidated statements of cash flows for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Net Cash used in Operating Activities

 

 

86,266

 

 

 

(4,187

)

Net Cash used in Investment Activities

 

 

(2,207

)

 

 

(1,643

)

Net Cash Generated by Financing Activities

 

 

10,397

 

 

 

15,521

 

Exchange gain/(losses) on Cash and Cash Equivalents (d)

 

 

44,832

 

 

 

(2,789

)

Net (decrease)/increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents (a+b+c+d)

 

 

139,288

 

 

 

6,902

 

Monetary gain/loss related to cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(45,378

)

 

 

(18,582

)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

 

 

131,958

 

 

 

143,638

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

 

 

225,868

 

 

 

131,958

 

Our operating activities include the operating results, the origination of loans and other financing transactions with the private sector, as well as raising customer deposits and entering into sales of government securities under repurchase agreement transactions. Our investing activities primarily consist of the acquisition of equity investments and purchasing of bank premises and equipment. Our financing activities include issuing bonds in the local and foreign capital markets and borrowing from foreign and local banks and international credit agencies.


Management believes that cash flows from operations and available cash and cash equivalent balances, will be sufficient to fund our financial commitments and capital expenditures for fiscal year 2019.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income for the Year before Income Tax

 

 

3,374

 

 

 

14,919

 

Adjustment to Obtain the Operating Activities Flows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Income

 

 

(78,274

)

 

 

(54,694

)

Interest-related Expenses

 

 

44,910

 

 

 

24,820

 

Net Loss from Instruments measured at Fair Value through profit or loss

 

 

(17,353

)

 

 

(8,461

)

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

16,300

 

 

 

7,294

 

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

 

1,652

 

 

 

1,439

 

Other Allowances

 

 

2,023

 

 

 

361

 

Quotation Difference

 

 

9,710

 

 

 

1,536

 

Share of profit  from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

 

 

 

(321

)

Loss from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

 

 

(221

)

 

 

 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

 

 

45,378

 

 

 

18,583

 

Other Operations

 

 

390

 

 

 

589

 

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt securities measured at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

40,438

 

 

 

8,776

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,045

 

 

 

(565

)

Repurchase Transactions

 

 

763

 

 

 

1,251

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

28

 

 

 

(3,960

)

Net Loans and Other Financing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

(11

)

 

 

3

 

- Other Financial Institutions

 

 

1,369

 

 

 

(881

)

- Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

140,346

 

 

 

11,463

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

(5,263

)

 

 

(1,080

)

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

(986

)

 

 

749

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

154

 

 

 

258

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

(511

)

 

 

(5,911

)

Cash flows from Discontinued Operations

 

 

 

 

 

1,580

 

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

6,827

 

 

 

(666

)

- Financial Sector

 

 

(2,974

)

 

 

(1,123

)

- Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

(109,471

)

 

 

(5,264

)

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

1,137

 

 

 

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

885

 

 

 

(40

)

Repurchase Transactions

 

 

(2,224

)

 

 

(1,719

)

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

23

 

 

 

(7,150

)

Provisions

 

 

(80

)

 

 

(121

)

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

(6,261

)

 

 

(1,553

)

Income Tax Collections/Payments

 

 

(6,857

)

 

 

(4,299

)

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Operating Activities (a)

 

 

86,266

 

 

 

(4,187

)

In fiscal year 2018, net cash generated in operating activities including the inflationary effect amounted to Ps.86,266 million, mainly due to: (i) a Ps.141,704 million net decrease in transactions related to the extension of loans and other financing, especially to the non-financial private sector and residents abroad and related to credit cards, advances and promissory notes, and (ii) a Ps.40,438 million net decrease of debt securities measured at fair value. Such amounts were partially offset mainly due to a Ps.105,618 million related to a decreasevalue through profit or loss

(16,8171,90725,023

Derivative Financial Instruments

1,006569(2,115

Repurchase Transactions

(46(4,167628

Other Financial Assets

7632,7383,292

Net Loans and Other Financing

- Non-financial Public Sector

1118(7

- Other Financial Institutions

(2,769(1,0737,583

- Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

(70,13072,480(28,998

Other Debt Securities

2,8234,315(21,449

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

(2,9926,930(3,080

Investments in deposits, primarily corresponding to a decrease of depositsEquity Instruments

309(5,863(103

Other Non-financial Assets

872(2,210(2,364

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

241,22021,471

Net Increases/(Decreases) from the non-financial private sectorOperating Liabilities:

Deposits

- Non-financial Public Sector

18,906(15,31514,347

- Financial Sector

1,333(8771,135

- Non-financial Private Sector and residents abroad.Residents Abroad

120,123(201,920117,987

In fiscal year 2017, net cash used in operating activities including the inflationary effect amounted to Ps.4,187 million, mainly due to: (i) a Ps.7,053 million decrease in deposits, mostly corresponding to a decrease of Ps.5,264 million in deposits from non-financial private sector and residents abroad and (ii) a Ps.10,585 million decrease in transactions related to loans and other financing, mainly related to credit cards, overdraft and promissory


notes, (iii) a Ps.5,911 million due to the increase of net other non -financial assets provided by operating activities, (iv) a Ps.7,150 million decrease in other financial liabilities related to credit card operations and (v) a Ps.8,776 million decrease in debt securities measuredLiabilities at fair value.value through profit or loss

(1,936(2,5564,492

Derivative Financial Instruments

(1,142(2,6452,072

Other Financial Liabilities

1,298(40,40816,512

Provisions

367041,156

Other Non-financial Liabilities

44(1,096(20,447

Income Tax Collections/Payments

(25,076(13,754(15,541

Net Cash Flows from Investing(used in)/generated by Operating Activities

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Cash Flows from Investment Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

 

 

(3,688

)

 

 

(3,259

)

Purchase of Non-controlling Interests

 

 

(770

)

 

 

(98

)

Other Payments Related to Investing Activities

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(250

)

Collections:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sale of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

 

 

49

 

 

 

738

 

Other Collections Related to Investing Activities

 

 

513

 

 

 

 

Dividends Earned

 

 

363

 

 

 

207

 

Discontinued Operations/Sale of Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

1,331

 

 

 

1,019

 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Investment Activities (b)

 

 

(2,207

)

 

 

(1,643

)

183,754(26,226188,241

In fiscal year 2018, net cash used by investing activities amounted to Ps.2,207 million mainly attributable to the acquisition of property, plants and equipment, intangible assets for Ps.3,688 million. Such amount was partially offset by funds provided by discontinued operations for Ps.1,331 million.

In fiscal year 2017, net cash used by investing activities amounted to Ps.1,643 million mainly attributable to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.3,259 million.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

 

 

(6,127

)

 

 

(16,976

)

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

(3

)

 

 

(15

)

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

(593

)

 

 

(563

)

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

 

 

(3,905

)

 

 

(3,237

)

Banks and International Entities

 

 

(10,354

)

 

 

(285

)

Dividends

 

 

(1,617

)

 

 

(406

)

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations

 

 

 

 

 

(987

)

Other Payments Related to Financing Activities

 

 

(46

)

 

 

 

Collections:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

 

17,212

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

17,507

 

 

 

15,918

 

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

 

 

14

 

 

 

19

 

Banks and International Entities

 

 

6,433

 

 

 

983

 

Equity Instruments Issued

 

 

9,088

 

 

 

3,858

 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Financing Activities (c)

 

 

10,397

 

 

 

15,521

 

In fiscal year 2018, financing activities provided cash in the amount of Ps.10,397 million due to: Ps.6,433 million of collections from international banks and lending entities and Ps.17,507 million from the Argentine Central Bank. Such amounts were partially offset by financing activities which used cash due to: (i) a decrease of Ps.6,127 million as a consequence of the payments of principal and interest on unsubordinated debt securities, partially offset by issuances of notes for approximately Ps.9,088 million during the same period, (ii) a decrease in loans from Argentine financial institutions for Ps.3,905 million and (iii) a net decrease in other fluctuations of Ps.1,617 million corresponding to other financing activities, mainly related to the payment of dividends.


In fiscal year 2017, financing activities provided cash in the amount of Ps.15,521 million due to: (i) payments of loans from Argentine financial institutions from Ps.3,237 million, (ii) Ps.983 million as a consequence of the increase in foreign credit facilities and (iii) an increase in loans from the Argentine Central Bank for Ps.15,918 million.

Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents

In fiscal year 2018, the effect of the exchange rate on consolidated cash flow amounted to Ps.44,832 million, an increase of Ps.47,621 million as compared to fiscal year 2017.

In fiscal year 2020, net cash generated by operating activities including the inflationary effect amounted to Ps.183,754 million, mainly due to a Ps.120,123 million net increase in net cash generated from deposits from the non-financial private sector and from residents abroad. Such amount was partially offset by net cash used of Ps.70,130 million related to an increase in net loans and other financing to the non-financial private sector and to residents abroad.

In fiscal year 2019, net cash used in operating activities including the inflationary effect amounted to Ps.26,226 million, mainly due to: (i) a Ps.201,920 million net decrease in deposits to non-financial private sector and residents abroad and (ii) a Ps.40,408 million decrease in other financial liabilities. Such amount was partially offset by net cash provided by Ps.72,480 million related to a decrease in net loans and other financing to non-financial private sector and residents abroad.

In fiscal year 2018, net cash generated by operating activities including the inflationary effect amounted to Ps.188,241 million, mainly due to: (i) a Ps.117,987 million increase in deposits from non-financial private sector and residents abroad, (ii) a Ps.25,023 million decrease in debt securities measured at fair value through profit or loss and (iii) a Ps.21,471 million decrease in non-current assets held for sale, partially offset due to: (i) a Ps.28,998 million increase in loans to non-financial private sector and residents abroad, (ii) a Ps.21,449 million increase in other debt securities and (iii) Ps.20,447 million decrease in other non-financial liabilities.

ii) Cash Flows from Investing Activities

   December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Cash Flows from Investment Operations

      

Payments:

      

Purchase of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

   (7,124   (10,751   (7,723

Interests in other companies

   (102   —      —   

Collections:

      

Sale of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

   265    3,648    213 

Dividends earned

   179    —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Investment Activities

   (6,782   (7,103   (7,510
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

In fiscal year 2020, net cash used in investing activities amounted to Ps.6,782 million mainly attributable to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.7,124 million. Such amount was partially offset by funds provided by the sale of property, plants and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.265 million and for the dividends received from investment in equity instruments for Ps.179 million.

In fiscal year 2019, net cash used in investing activities amounted to Ps.7,103 million mainly attributable to the acquisition of property, plants and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.10,751 million. Such amount was partially offset by funds provided by the sale of property, plants and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.3,648 million.

In fiscal year 2018, net cash used in investing activities amounted to Ps.7,510 million mainly attributable to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and other assets for Ps.7,723 million.

iii) Cash Flows from Financing Activities

   December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

      

Payments:

      

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

   (27,839   (20,826   (2,851

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

   (35,157   (70,419   (25,579

Dividends

   (2,036   (3,622   (3,589

Leases payment

   (1,333   (1,362   —   

Collections:

      

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

   11,728    7,726    23,558 

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

   19,531    63,225    24,870 

Capital increase

   —      180    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash (used in)/generated by Financing Activities

   (35,106   (25,098   16,409 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

In fiscal year 2020, net cash used in financing activities amounted to Ps.35,106 million due to: (i) Ps.35,157 million as consequence of payments of loans obtained from local financial institutions and (ii) Ps.27,839 million of payments of principal and interest on unsubordinated debt securities issued by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries. Such amount was partially offset by: (i) funds provided by loans from local financial institutions for Ps.19,531 million and (ii) issuances by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries of unsubordinated debt securities for approximately Ps.11,728 million during 2020.

In fiscal year 2019, net cash used in financing activities amounted to Ps.25,098 million due to: (i) Ps.70,419 million as consequence of payments of loans obtained from local financial institutions, (ii) Ps.20,826 million of

payments of principal and interest on unsubordinated debt securities issued by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries, (iii) Ps.3,622 million of payments of dividends and (iv) Ps.1,362 million for leases payments. Such amount was partially offset by funds provided by loans from local financial institutions for Ps.63,225 million.

In fiscal year 2018, financing activities provided cash in the amount of Ps.16,409 million due to: (i) an increase in loans from local financial institutions for Ps.24,870 million,(ii) issuances by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries of unsubordinated debt securities for approximately Ps.23,558 million during 2018 and (iii) Ps.6,771 million of the payments of principal and interest on subordinated debt securities. Such amount was partially offset by funds provided by loans from local financial institutions for Ps.25,579 million.

iv) Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents

In fiscal year 2020, the effect of the exchange rate on consolidated cash flow amounted to Ps.32,806 million, a decrease of Ps.36.729 million as compared to fiscal year 2019. The exchange rate as of December 31, 2020 was Ps.84,145 per US$1.

In fiscal year 2019, the effect of the exchange rate on consolidated cash flow amounted to Ps.69,535 million, a decrease of Ps.24,623 million as compared to fiscal year 2018. The exchange rate as of December 31, 2019 was Ps.59.8950 per US$1.

In fiscal year 2018, the effect of the exchange rate on consolidated cash flow amounted to Ps.94,158 million. The exchange rate as of December 31, 2018 was Ps.37.8083 per US$1.

In fiscal year 2017, the effect of the exchange rate on consolidated cash flow amounted to Ps.2,789 million. The exchange rate as of December 31, 2017 was Ps.18.7742 per US$1.

For a description of the types of financial interests we use and the maturity profile of our debt, currency and interest rate structure, see Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” A.“Operating Results”.

B.3 Liquidity Management

i) Liquidity Gaps

Liquidity risk is the risk that Grupo Financiero Galicia does not have a sufficient level of liquid assets to meet its contractual commitments and the operational needs of the business without affecting market prices. The goal of liquidity management is to maintain an adequate level of liquid assets that allows it to meet financial commitments at contractual maturity, take advantage of potential investment opportunities and meet demand for credit. To monitor and control liquidity risk, Grupo Financiero Galicia monitors and systematically calculates gaps in liquidity through the application of an internal model that is subject to periodic review.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s liquidity policy covers three areas of liquidity risk:

 

Liquidity Management

Consolidated Liquidity Gaps

Liquidity risk is the risk that Banco Galicia does not have a sufficient level of liquid assets to meet its contractual commitments and the operational needs of the business without affecting market prices. The goal of liquidity management is to maintain an adequate level of liquid assets that allows it to meet financial commitments at contractual maturity, take advantage of potential investment opportunities and meet demand for credit. To monitor and control liquidity risk, Banco Galicia monitors and systematically calculates gaps in liquidity through the application of an internal model that is subject to periodic review.

Banco Galicia’s liquidity policy covers three areas of liquidity risk:

Stock Liquidity: The excess amount of cash and liquid assets above the legal minimum cash requirements, taking into account the characteristics and performance of Banco Galicia’s different liabilities, as well as the nature of the assets that provide such liquidity.

Cash Flow Liquidity: Gaps between the contractual maturities of consolidated financial assets and liabilities.

Concentration of Deposits: The concentration of deposits is regulated in terms of the top leading customers and the following 50 customers. A maximum limit with respect to the share in deposits is determined on an individual basis for such customers.


As of December 31, 2018, the consolidated gaps between maturities of Grupo Financiero Galicia´s financial assets and liabilities based on contractual remaining maturity were as follows:

As of December 31, 2020, the consolidated gaps between maturities of Grupo Financiero Galicia´s financial assets and liabilities based on contractual remaining maturity were as follows:

   December 31, 2020 
   Less than one
Year
  1 – 5 Years  5 – 10 Years  Over 10
Years
  Total 
   (in millions of Pesos, except ratios) 

Assets

      

Cash and Due from Banks

   72,826   —     —     —     72,826 

Argentine Central Bank – Escrow Accounts

   181,143   —     —     —     181,143 

Overnight Placements in Banks Abroad

   1,100   —     —     —     1,100 

Loans – Public Sector

   11,586   3,242   —     —     14,828 

Loans – Private Sector

   400,534   64,207   6,267   12,656   483,664 

Government Securities

   109,185   —     —     —     109,185 

Notes and Securities

   4,660   691   —     —     5,351 

Financial Trusts

   72   —     —     —     72 

Receivables from Financial Leases

   934   875   17   —     1,826 

Other Financing

   2,361   2,902   —     —     5,263 

Government Securities Forward Purchase

   62,737   —     —     —     62,737 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Assets

   847,138   71,917   6,284   12,656   937,995 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Liabilities

      

Deposits in Savings Accounts

   281,011   —     —     —     281,011 

Demand Deposits

   143,923   —     —     —     143,923 

Time Deposits

   245,402   91   —     —     245,493 

Notes

   9,107   2,466   20,873   —     32,446 

Banks and International Entities

   4,277   6,009   —     —     10,286 

Local Financial Institutions

   4,882   1,382   —     —     6,264 

Other Financing

   100,642   2,368   822.0   127.0   103,959 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

   789,244   12,316   21,695   127   823,382 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Asset / Liability Gap

   57,894   59,601   (15,411  12,529   114,613 

Cumulative Gap

   57,894   117,495   102,084   114,613  

Ratio of Cumulative Gap to Cumulative Liabilities

   7  15  12  14 

Ratio of Cumulative Gap to Total Liabilities

   7  14  12  14 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Less than one

Year

 

 

1 – 5 Years

 

 

5 – 10 Years

 

 

Over 10

Years

 

 

Total

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except ratios)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

37,003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

37,003

 

Argentine Central Bank – Escrow Accounts

 

 

122,734

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

122,734

 

Overnight Placements  in Banks Abroad

 

 

5,242

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,242

 

Loans – Public Sector

 

 

4,400

 

 

 

2,665

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,065

 

Loans – Private Sector

 

 

247,773

 

 

 

50,989

 

 

 

5,479

 

 

 

2,358

 

 

 

306,599

 

Government Securities

 

 

78,241

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78,241

 

Notes and Securities

 

 

1,385

 

 

 

253

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,780

 

Financial Trusts

 

 

5,043

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,043

 

Receivables from Financial Leases

 

 

764

 

 

 

1,205

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,969

 

Other Financing

 

 

8,683

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8,683

 

Government Securities Forward Purchase

 

 

9,491

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,491

 

Total Assets

 

 

520,759

 

 

 

55,112

 

 

 

5,621

 

 

 

2,358

 

 

 

583,850

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits in Savings Accounts

 

 

162,170

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

162,170

 

Demand Deposits

 

 

78,381

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78,381

 

Time Deposits

 

 

115,280

 

 

 

54

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

115,334

 

Notes

 

 

10,295

 

 

 

26,820

 

 

 

9,417

 

 

 

 

 

 

46,532

 

Banks and International Entities

 

 

8,388

 

 

 

5,878

 

 

 

1,288

 

 

 

 

 

 

15,554

 

Local Financial Institutions

 

 

2,653

 

 

 

2,156

 

 

 

21

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,830

 

Other Financing

 

 

97,640

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

97,640

 

Total Liabilities

 

 

474,807

 

 

 

34,908

 

 

 

10,726

 

 

 

 

 

 

520,441

 

Asset / Liability Gap

 

 

45,952

 

 

 

20,204

 

 

 

-5,105

 

 

 

2,358

 

 

 

63,409

 

Cumulative Gap

 

 

45,952

 

 

 

66,156

 

 

 

61,051

 

 

 

63,409

 

 

 

63,409

 

Ratio of Cumulative Gap to Cumulative Liabilities

 

 

9.7

 

 

 

13.0

 

 

 

11.7

 

 

 

12.2

 

 

 

 

Ratio of Cumulative Gap to Total Liabilities

 

 

8.8

 

 

 

12.7

 

 

 

11.7

 

 

 

12.2

 

 

 

 

(*)

(*)

Principal plus UVA adjustment. Does not include interest.

(1)

(1)

Includes, mainly, debt with retailers due to credit card operations, liabilities in connection with repurchase transactions, debt with domestic credit agencies and collections for third parties.

The table above is prepared taking into account contractual maturity. Therefore, all financial assets and collections for third parties.

The table above is prepared taking into account contractual maturity. Therefore, all financial assets and liabilities with no maturity date are included in the “Less than One Year” category.

Banco Galicia must comply with a maximum limit set by its board of directors for liquidity mismatches. This limit has been established at -25% (minus 25%) for the ratio of cumulative gap to total liabilities within the first year. Banco Galicia complies with the established policy, since such gap was of 7% as of December 2020.

ii) Banco Galicia (Unconsolidated) Liquidity Management

The following is a discussion of Banco Galicia’s liquidity management.

Banco Galicia’s policy is to maintain a level of liquid assets that allows it to meet financial commitments at contractual maturity, take advantage of potential investment opportunities, and meet customer’s credit demand. To set the appropriate level, forecasts are made based on historical experience and on an analysis of possible scenarios. This enables management to project funding needs and alternative funding sources, as well as excess liquidity and placement strategies for such funds. As of December 31, 2020, Banco Galicia’s liquidity management, excluding the consolidated companies.

Banco Galicia’s policy is to maintain a level of liquid assets that allows it to meet financial commitments at contractual maturity, take advantage of potential investment opportunities, and meet customer’s credit demand. To set the appropriate level, forecasts are made based on historical experience and on an analysis of possible scenarios. This enables management to project funding needs and alternative funding sources, as well as excess liquidity and placement strategies for such funds. As of December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia’s unconsolidated liquidity structure was as follows:

 

December 31, 2020
(in millions of Pesos)

Legal Requirement

193,955

Management Liquidity

211,014

Total Liquidity

404,969

Legal requirements correspond to the minimum cash requirements for Peso- and foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities as per the rules and regulations of the BCRA.

The assets that can be taken into account for compliance with this requirement are the balances of the Peso- and foreign currency-denominated deposit accounts at the BCRA, the liquidity bills and Bote 2020, and the escrow accounts held at the BCRA in favor of clearing houses.

Management liquidity, defined as a percentage over deposits and other liabilities, is made up of the following items: balances of checking accounts held by the BCRA exceeding minimum cash requirements, Letes, Leliq and placements held by the BCRA, overnight placements in banks abroad, net short-term interbank loans (call loans), technical cash and placements at the BCRA in excess of the amounts necessary to cover minimum cash requirements.

B.4 Capital

Our capital management policy is designed to ensure prudent levels of capital. The following table analyzes our capital resources as of the dates indicated.

  As of December 31, 
  2020  2019  2018 
  (in millions of Pesos, except ratios, multiples and percentages) 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

  182,334   155,121   125,919 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG as a Percentage of Total Assets

  17.28   16.62   10.55 

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

  4.79   4.99   8.45 

Tangible Shareholders’ Equity (1) as a Percentage of Total Assets

  15.91   15.35   9.75 

 

1)

Tangible shareholders’ equity represents shareholders’ equity minus intangible assets.

For information on our capital adequacy and that of our operating subsidiaries, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.“Business Overview”—“Selected Statistical Information”—“Regulatory Capital”.

B.5 Capital Expenditures

In the ordinary course of business, our capital expenditures are mainly related to fixed assets, construction and organizational and IT system development. Generally, our capital expenditures are not significant when compared to our total assets.

For a more detailed description of our capital expenditures in 2020 and our capital commitments for 2021, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”— A. “History and Development of the Company”—“Capital Investments and Divestitures”. For a description of financing of our capital expenditures, see —“Consolidated Cash Flows”.

C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses

Not applicable.

D. Trend Information

See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”-A.“Operating Results” – “Principal Trends”.

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—A. “Operating Results”— “Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” and “Contractual Obligations”.

F. Contractual Obligations

See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”—A. “Operating Results”—“Contractual Obligations”.

G. Safe Harbor

These matters are discussed under “Forward-Looking Statements.”

 

December 31, 2018

(in millions of Pesos)

Legal Requirement

116,998

Management Liquidity

104,235

Total Liquidity (1)

221,233

1)

Excludes cash and due from banks of consolidated companies.


Legal requirements correspond to the minimum cash requirements for Peso- and foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities as per the rules and regulations of the Argentine Central Bank.

The assets that can be taken into account for compliance with this requirement are the balances of the Peso- and foreign currency-denominated deposit accounts at the Argentine Central Bank, the liquidity bills and Bote 2020, and the escrow accounts held at the Argentine Central Bank in favor of clearing houses.

Management liquidity, defined as a percentage over deposits and other liabilities, is made up of the following items: balances of checking accounts held by the Argentine Central Bank exceeding minimum cash requirements, Letes, Leliq and placements held by the Argentine Central Bank, overnight placements in banks abroad, net short-term interbank loans (call loans), technical cash and placements at the Argentine Central Bank in excess of the amounts necessary to cover minimum cash requirements.

Capital

Our capital management policy is designed to ensure prudent levels of capital. The following table analyzes our capital resources as of the dates indicated.

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except ratios, multiples and percentages)

 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

 

 

60,125

 

 

 

64,525

 

 

 

42,954

 

Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

10.55

 

 

 

13.18

 

 

 

9.53

 

Total Liabilities as a Multiple of Shareholders’ Equity attributable to GFG

 

 

8.45

 

 

 

6.54

 

 

 

9.43

 

Tangible Shareholders’ Equity (1) as a Percentage of Total Assets

 

 

9.75

 

 

 

12.83

 

 

 

9.16

 

1)

Tangible shareholders’ equity represents shareholders’ equity minus intangible assets.

For information on our capital adequacy and that of our operating subsidiaries, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.”Business Overview”─”Selected Statistical Information”—“Regulatory Capital”.

Capital Expenditures

In the ordinary course of business, our capital expenditures are mainly related to fixed assets, construction and organizational and IT system development. Generally, our capital expenditures are not significant when compared to our total assets.

For a more detailed description of our capital expenditures in 2018 and our capital commitments for 2019, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”— A. “History and Devolopment of the Company”─”Capital Investments and Divestitures”. For a description of financing of our capital expenditures, see —“Consolidated Cash Flows”.

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”─A.Operating Results”─Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” andContractual Obligations”.

F. Contractual Obligations

See Item 5. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects─A. Operating ResultsContractual Obligations”.

G. Safe Harbor

These matters are discussed under “Forward-Looking Statements.”


Item 6.

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

Our Board of Directors

Our ordinary and extraordinary shareholders’ meeting took place on April 25, 2019.

A. Directors and Senior Management

Our Board of Directors

Our ordinary and extraordinary shareholders’ meeting took place on April 28, 2020. The following table sets out the members of our Board of Directors as of that date (all of whom reside in Buenos Aires, Argentina), the positions they hold within Grupo Financiero Galicia, their dates of birth, their principal occupations and the dates of their appointment and on which their current terms will expire. Terms expire when the annual shareholders’ meeting takes place.

 

Name

Position

Date of Birth

Principal Occupation

Member Since

Current Term Ends

PositionDate of BirthPrincipal OccupationMember SinceCurrent Term
Ends

Eduardo J. Escasany

Chairman

June 30, 1950

Businessman

April 2005

April 2022

Pablo Gutierrez

Vice Chairman

December 9, 1959

Businessman

April 2003

April 2022

Abel Ayerza

Director

May 27, 1939

Businessman

September 1999

April 2021

Federico Braun

Director

February 4, 1950

Businessman

September 1999

April 2020

Silvestre Vila Moret

Director

April 26, 1971

Businessman

June 2002

April 2020

Daniel Llambías

Director

February 8, 1947

Businessman

April 2017

April 2020

Pedro A. Richards

Director

November 14, 1952

Businessman

April 2017

April 2022

Enrique Mariano Garda Olaciregui

Director

April 29, 1946

Lawyer

April 2019

April 2021

Claudia Raquel Estecho

Director

September 24, 1957

Accountant

April 2019

April 2021

Sergio Grinenco

Alternate Director

May 26, 1948

Banker

April 2003

April 2021

Alejandro Rojas Lagarde

Alternate Director

July 17, 1937

Lawyer

April 2000

April 2021

Ana María Bertolino

Alternate Director

June 1, 1951

Lawyer

April 2019

April 2022

Ricardo Alberto Gonzalez

Alternate Director

June 12, 1951

Businessman

April 2019

April 2022

The following is a summary of the biographies of the members of our Board of Directors:

Eduardo J. Escasany: Mr. Escasany obtained a degree in economics at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1973 to 2002. He was appointed to Banco Galicia’s board of directors in 1975. In 1979, he was elected as the vice chairman and from 1989 to March 21, 2002 he served as the chairman of Banco Galicia’s board of directors and its chief executive officer. He served as the vice chairman of the Argentine Bankers Association from 1989 to 1993 and the chairman of such association from 1993 to 2002. He was chairman of the Board of Directors from April 2002 to

ChairmanJune 2002. In 30, 1950BusinessmanApril 2005 he was re-elected as member of the Board of Directors and appointed as chairman in 2010. He is also a lifetime trustee and vice chairman of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He is the chairman of Helena Emprendimientos Inmobiliarios S.A. and an alternate director for RPE Distribución S.A. and Hidro Distribución S.A. Mr. Escasany is Mr. Silvestre Vila Moret’s uncle.

April 2022

Pablo Gutierrez: Mr. Gutierrez obtained a degree in business administration at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1985, where he served in different positions. In April 2005, he was appointed to the board of directors of Banco Galicia. Mr. Gutierrez is chairman of Tarjetas Regionales, vice president of Sudamericana Holding, regular director of Tarjeta Naranja S.A. and an alternate trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He was an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia from

Vice ChairmanDecember 9, 1959BusinessmanApril 2003 to April 2010 when he was appointed as vice chairman. In April 2012, he was appointed as the vice chairman of Banco Galicia. Mr. Gutierrez is Mr. Abel Ayerza’s nephew.

2022

Abel Ayerza: Mr. Ayerza obtained a degree in business administration at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1966 to 2002. Mr. Ayerza is also the chairman of Aygalpla S.A., a lifetime trustee and second vice chairman of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires and the managing partner of Cribelco S.R.L., Crisabe S.R.L. and Huinca Cereales S.R.L. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since

DirectorMay 27, 1939BusinessmanSeptember 1999. Mr. Ayerza is the uncle of Mr. Pablo Gutierrez.

1999April 2021

Federico Braun: Mr. Braun obtained a degree in industrial engineering at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1984 to 2002. Mr. Braun is also the chairman of Patagonia Logística S.A., Campos de la Patagonia S.A., Estancia Anita S.A., Tarjeta del Mar and S.A. Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia; the vice chairman of Asociación Empresaria Argentina and Asociación de Supermercados Unidos. He is a director of Inmobiliaria Financiera “La Josefina” S.A. and an alternate director of Martseb S.A. He is a lifetime


trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since DirectorFebruary 4, 1950BusinessmanSeptember 1999.

1999April 2023

Silvestre Vila Moret: Mr. Vila Moret obtained a degree in banking administration at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1997 until May 2002. Mr. Vila Moret is also vice chairman of El Benteveo S.A. and Santa Ofelia S.A. He has served as on the Board of Directors since

DirectorApril 26, 1971BusinessmanJune 2002. Mr. Vila Moret is the nephew of Mr. Eduardo J. Escasany.

2002April 2023

Daniel Antonio Llambías:Mr. Llambías obtained a degree in national public accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires.He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1964.He was elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia in September 1997 and served as a director from September 2001 until August 2009, when he was appointed Chief Executive Officer.Mr. Llambías is also a director of Tarjeta Naranja and Tarjetas Regionales and an alternate trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He served as the chairman of ADEBA from

DirectorFebruary 8, 1947BusinessmanApril 2016 to 2017April 2017. Mr. Llambías was appointed as a director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2017.

2023

Pedro AlbertoA. Richards: Mr. Richards obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He holds a Master of Science in Management from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He was the director of the National Development Bank. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1990. He was a member of the board of directors of Galicia Capital Markets S.A. between 1992 and 1994 and vice chairman of Net Investment between September 2001 and May 2007. Since August 2000, he served as Grupo Financiero Galicia’s managing director and from 2010 as our Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Richards is also

Director of Galicia Warrants, and director of Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A. Mr. Richards was an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia from November 14, 1952BusinessmanApril 2003 until 2017April 2005, after which he served as a director until 2022

Miguel C. Maxwell

DirectorDecember 19, 1956AccountantApril 14, 2010. He was appointed as a director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in 2020April 2017.

Enrique Mariano Garda Olaciregui: Mr. Garda Olaciregui obtained a degree in law at the Universidad del Salvador. He has a masters in finance from Universidad del CEMA and a degree in Corporate Law from Universidad Austral. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1970.He served as legal advisor to Banco Galicia between September 2001 and April 2003. He served as a Secretary Director between April 2003 and April 2010, when he was designated as regular syndic of Banco Galicia. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Tarjetas Regionales, Galicia Seguros, Galicia Valores, Galicia Warrants, Sudamericana Holding and other subsidiaries of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia. He was appointed as a director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019.

2021

Claudia Raquel Estecho: Mrs. Estecho obtained a degree in accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has also completed specialized training programs in the areas of Human Resources, Risk and Executive Management at the Univesidad Austral. She has held different positions at Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia since 1976 from 2016, in the areas of Finance, Planning and Risk Management.

DirectorSeptember 24, 1957AccountantApril 2019April 2021

Ricardo Alberto Gonzalez

Alternate DirectorJune 12, 1951Businessman��April 2019April 2022

Sergio Grinenco: Mr. Grinenco obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina and a master’s in business administration from Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1977. He has served as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia since September 2001 and as the vice chairman from

Alternate DirectorMay 26, 1948BankerApril 2003 to 2011. Mr. Grinenco is also an alternate trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. In 2012, he was appointed as the chairman of Banco Galicia.

April 2021

Alejandro María Rojas Lagarde: Mr. Rojas obtained a degree in law from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has held a variety of positions at Banco Galicia since 1963. From 1965 to January 2000, he served as the general counsel office of Banco Galicia. He has served as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia since 2000. He is also a manager of Rojas Lagarde S.R.L., alternate director of Santiago Salud S.A. and a lifetime trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

Alternate DirectorJuly 17, 1937LawyerApril 2000April 2021

Ana María Bertolino: Mrs. Bertolino obtained a degree in law from Universidad de Buenos Aires. She joined Banco Galicia in 1972 and has held positions in Credit and Corporate Banking, until 2009. She was appointed as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019.


Ricardo Alberto Gonzalez: Mr. Gonzalez served in various positions at Grupo Financiero Galicia between 1973 and December 2009, mainly in the retail division and the credit department. He retired as general manager of the corporate banking division. In Alternate DirectorJune 1, 1951LawyerApril 2019 he was appointed as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Our Board of Directors may consist of between three and nine permanent members. Currently our Board of Directors has nine members. In addition, the number of alternate directors who act in the temporary or permanent absence of a director has been set at four. The regular and alternate directors are elected by the shareholders at our annual general shareholders’ meeting.

Directors and alternate directors are elected for a maximum term of three years. Mr. Sergio Grinenco is also a director of Banco Galicia. In addition, some members of our Board of Directors may serve on the board of directors of any subsidiary.

Five of our directors are members of the families that are the controlling shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Our Audit Committee

Grupo Financiero Galicia complies with the provisions set forth by the Capital Markets Law and the regulations set forth by the CNV, which require that companies which make a public offering of shares should form an Audit Committee, and develop a charter with regulations for its operation.

Accordingly, the Board of Directors established an Audit Committee with three members. For fiscal year 2018, Messrs. Antonio R. Garcés, C. Enrique Martin and Daniel Llambías were the members of the Audit Committee, with Antonio R. Garcés and C. Enrique Martin being considered independent pursuant to the CNV and Nasdaq requirements. In July 2018, Mr. Silvestre Vila Moret resigned from the Audit Committee to assume a new position on the Executive Committee and was replaced by Mr. Daniel Llambías. All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate and have extensive managerial experience. Mr. Antonio Garcés was the financial expert serving on our Audit Committee during fiscal year 2018.

For fiscal year 2019, Mr. Enrique Mariano Garda Olaciregui, Ms. Claudia Raquel Estecho and Mr. Daniel Llambías were appointed to the Audit Committee by the Board of Directors, with Mr. Enrique Mariano Garda Olaciregui and Ms. Claudia Raquel Estecho being considered independent pursuant to the CNV and Nasdaq requirements. All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate and have extensive managerial experience.

According to the CNV rules, the Audit Committee is primarily responsible for (i) issuing a report on the Board of Directors’ proposals for the appointment of the independent auditors and the compensation for the Directors, (ii) issuing a report detailing the activities performed according to the CNV requirements, (iii) issuing the Audit Committee’s annual plan and implementing it each fiscal year, (iv) evaluating the external auditors’ independence, work plans and performance, (v) evaluating the plans and performance of the internal auditors, (vi) supervising the reliability of our internal control systems, including the accounting system, and of external reporting of financial or other information, (vii) following-up on the use of information policies on risk management at Grupo Financiero Galicia’s main subsidiaries, (viii) evaluating the reliability of the financial information to be filed with the CNV and the SEC, (ix) verifying compliance with the applicable conduct rules, and (x) issuing a report on related party transactions and disclosing any transaction where a conflict of interest exists with corporate governance bodies and controlling shareholders. The Audit Committee has access to all information and documentation that it requires and is broadly empowered to fulfill its duties. During 2018, the Audit Committee held 11 meetings.

Our Supervisory Committee

Our bylaws provide for a Supervisory Committee consisting of three members who are referred to as syndics (“syndics”) and three alternate members who are referred to as alternate syndics (“alternate syndics”). In accordance with the Corporations Law and our bylaws, the syndics and alternate syndics are responsible for ensuring that all of our actions are in accordance with applicable Argentine law. Syndics and alternate syndics are


elected by the shareholders at the annual general shareholders’ meeting. Syndics and alternate syndics do not have management functions. Syndics are responsible for, among other things, preparing a report to shareholders analyzing our financial statements for each year and recommending to the shareholders whether to approve such financial statements. Alternate syndics act in the temporary or permanent absence of a syndic. Currently, there are three syndics and three alternate syndics. Syndics and alternate syndics are elected for a one-year term.

The following table shows the members of our Supervisory Committee. Each of our syndics was appointed at the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25,2022

The following is a summary of the biographies of the members of our Board of Directors:

Eduardo J. Escasany: Mr. Escasany obtained a degree in economics at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1973 to 2002. He was appointed to Banco Galicia’s board of directors in 1975. In 1979, he was elected as the vice chairman and from 1989 to March 21, 2002 he served as the chairman of Banco Galicia’s board of directors and its chief executive officer. He served as the vice chairman of the Argentine Bankers Association from 1989 to 1993 and the chairman of such association from 1993 to 2002. He was chairman of the Board of Directors from April 2002 to June 2002. In April 2005, he was re-elected as member of the Board of Directors and appointed as chairman in 2010. He is also a lifetime trustee and chairman of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He is the chairman of Helena Emprendimientos Inmobiliarios S.A. and an alternate director for RPE Distribución S.A. and Hidro Distribución S.A. Mr. Escasany is Mr. Silvestre Vila Moret’s uncle.

Pablo Gutierrez: Mr. Gutierrez obtained a degree in business administration at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1985, where he served in different positions. In April 2005, he was appointed to the board of directors of Banco Galicia. Mr. Gutierrez is regular director of Tarjetas Regionales, and Naranja and a lifetime trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He was an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia from April 2003 to April 2010 when he was appointed as principal Director. In April 2012, he was appointed as the vice chairman of Grupo Financiero Galicia. Mr. Gutierrez is Mr. Abel Ayerza’s nephew.

Abel Ayerza: Mr. Ayerza obtained a degree in business administration at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1966 to 2002. Mr. Ayerza is also second vice chairman of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires and the managing partner of Cribelco S.R.L., Crisabe S.R.L. and Huinca Cereales S.R.L. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since September 1999. Mr. Ayerza is the uncle of Mr. Pablo Gutierrez.

Federico Braun: Mr. Braun obtained a degree in industrial engineering at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1984 to 2002. Mr. Braun is also the chairman of Patagonia Logística S.A., Campos de la Patagonia S.A., Estancia Anita S.A., Tarjeta del Mar and S.A. Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia; the vice chairman of Asociación Empresaria Argentina and Asociación de Supermercados Unidos. He is a director of Inmobiliaria Financiera “La Josefina” S.A. and an alternate director of Martseb S.A. He is a lifetime trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since September 1999.

Silvestre Vila Moret: Mr. Vila Moret obtained a degree in banking administration at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He was associated with Banco Galicia from 1997 until May 2002. Mr. Vila Moret is also director of El Benteveo S.A. and Santa Ofelia S.A. He has served as on the Board of Directors since June 2002. He is a lifetime trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. Mr. Vila Moret is the nephew of Mr. Eduardo J. Escasany.

Daniel Llambías: Mr. Llambías obtained a degree in national public accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1964. He was elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia in September 1997 and served as a director from September 2001 until August 2009, when he was appointed Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Llambías is also a director of Naranja and Tarjetas Regionales and an alternate trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. He served as the chairman of ADEBA from April 2016 to April 2017. Mr. Llambías was appointed as a director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2017.

Pedro Alberto Richards: Mr. Richards obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He holds a Master of Science in Management from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He was the director of the National Development Bank. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1990. He was a member of the board of directors of Galicia Capital Markets S.A. between 1992 and 1994 and vice chairman of Net Investment between September 2001 and May 2007. Since August 2000, he served as Grupo Financiero Galicia’s managing director and from 2010 to 2020 as our Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Richards is also Director of Galicia Warrants, and director of Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A. Mr. Richards was an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia from April 2003 until April 2005, after which he served as a director until April 14, 2010. He was appointed as a director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2017.

Miguel C. Maxwell: Mr. Maxwell obtained a degree in national public accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires in 1979 and in 1986 he completed the High Management Program - Instituto de Altos Estudios Empresariales (IAE) - Buenos Aires (Harvard Business School - University of Navarra). He developed his professional career at Deloitte & Co. S.A., where, after being promoted to Audit Partner and leading the Audit business in Argentina, he reached the position of CEO of Argentina and LATCO (15 countries) and is a current member of the Board of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu. Currently, he is the Chairman of the Advisory Board of Llorente & Cuenca (LLYC), Director of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. and José M. Alladio e Hijos S.A. and current syndic of LIAG Argentina S.A. and Importadora y Exportadora del Norte S.A. He is also current member of the Boards of Directors of the Asociación Argentina de Cultura Inglesa, Club Champagnat and the Rotary Club of Buenos Aires and Accounts Reviewer of the Harvard Club of Argentina. He was appointed as regular director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2020.

Claudia Raquel Estecho: Mrs. Estecho obtained a degree in accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has also completed specialized training programs in the areas of Human Resources, Risk and Executive

Management at the Universidad Austral. She held different positions at Banco Galicia since 1976 to 2016 in the areas of Finance, Planning and Risk Management. She was appointed as regular director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019.

Ricardo Alberto Gonzalez: Mr. Gonzalez served in various positions at Banco Galicia between 1973 and December 2009, mainly in the retail division and the credit department. He retired as general manager of the corporate banking division. In April 2019, he was appointed as alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Sergio Grinenco: Mr. Grinenco obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina and a master’s in business administration from Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1977. He has served as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia since September 2001 and as the vice chairman from April 2003 to 2011. Mr. Grinenco is also an alternate trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. In 2012, he was appointed as the chairman of Banco Galicia.

Alejandro María Rojas Lagarde: Mr. Rojas obtained a degree in law from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has held a variety of positions at Banco Galicia since 1963. From 1965 to January 2000, he served as the general counsel office of Banco Galicia. He has served as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia since 2000. He is also a manager of Rojas Lagarde S.R.L., alternate director of Santiago Salud S.A. and a lifetime trustee of the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

Ana María Bertolino: Mrs. Bertolino obtained a degree in law from Universidad de Buenos Aires. She joined Banco Galicia in 1972 and has held positions in Credit and Corporate Banking, until 2009. She was appointed as an alternate director of Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019.

Our Board of Directors may consist of between three and nine permanent members. Currently our Board of Directors has nine members. In addition, the number of alternate directors who act in the temporary or permanent absence of a director has been set at four. The regular and alternate directors are elected by the shareholders at our annual general shareholders’ meeting.

Directors and alternate directors are elected for a maximum term of three years. Mr. Sergio Grinenco is also a director of Banco Galicia. In addition, some members of our Board of Directors may serve on the board of directors of any subsidiary.

Five of our directors are members of the families that are the controlling shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Our Audit Committee

Grupo Financiero Galicia complies with the provisions set forth by the Capital Markets Law and the regulations set forth by the CNV, which require that companies which make a public offering of shares should form an Audit Committee and develop a charter with regulations for its operation.

Accordingly, the Board of Directors established an Audit Committee with three members. For fiscal year 2020, Messrs. Claudia Estecho, Daniel Llambías and Miguel Maxwell were the members of the Audit Committee, with Claudia Estecho and Miguel Maxwell considered independent pursuant to the CNV and Nasdaq requirements. All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate and have extensive experience in management. Mr. Daniel Llambías, was the financial expert serving on our Audit Committee during fiscal year 2020. In April 2020, Mr. Miguel Maxwell replaced Mr. Ricardo Gonzalez who had presented his resignation as Regular Director.

According to the CNV rules, the Audit Committee is primarily responsible for (i) issuing a report on the Board of Directors’ proposals for the appointment of the independent auditors and the compensation for the Directors, (ii) issuing a report detailing the activities performed according to the CNV requirements, (iii) issuing the Audit Committee’s annual plan and implementing it each fiscal year, (iv) evaluating the external auditors’ independence, work plans and performance, (v) evaluating the plans and performance of the internal auditors, (vi) supervising the reliability of our internal control systems, including the accounting system, and of external reporting

of financial or other information, (vii) following-up on the use of information policies on risk management at Grupo Financiero Galicia’s main subsidiaries, (viii) evaluating the reliability of the financial information to be filed with the CNV and the SEC, (ix) verifying compliance with the applicable conduct rules, and (x) issuing a report on related party transactions and disclosing any transaction where a conflict of interest exists with corporate governance bodies and controlling shareholders. The Audit Committee has access to all information and documentation that it requires and is broadly empowered to fulfill its duties. During 2020, the Audit Committee held twelve meetings.

Our Executive Committee

The Executive Committee was created to assist with the management of the Company’s ordinary business and help the Board of Directors in fulfilling its duties. The Committee is composed of between two and five members of the Board of Directors and the President of the Board of Directors acts as its chairman. The duties of this committee include: gathering legal, economic, financial and business information on the Company’s subsidiaries and investee companies; making investment decisions; appointing the Company’s first-tier managers; proposing a strategic plan for the Company and its subsidiaries; making annual budget estimates for the Board of Directors, and performing risk assessments. The members of the Executive Committee are Messrs. Eduardo J. Escasany, Pablo Gutiérrez, Abel Ayerza, Federico Braun and Silvestre Vila Moret.

Our Ethics, Conduct and Integrity Committee

The Ethics, Conduct and Integrity Committee was created as part of the Company’s Ethics and Integrity Program, in order to promote respect for norms and regulations, the principles of good conduct and our Code of Ethics. The objective of this Committee, (apart from complying with the duties required to be performed by applicable Argentine laws), is to monitor and review reports of conducts contrary to our Code of Ethics, and to decide whether the conduct under review violated our Code of Ethics; evaluate the evolution and effectiveness of our Ethics and Integrity Program; and plan, coordinate and supervise compliance with the relevant policies approved by this Committee. This committee is formed by two independent Directors, the Chief Financial Officer, the responsible for the Integrity program of the Company and is chaired by one of regular Directors. The members are the two independent directors, Messrs. Claudia Estecho and Miguel Maxwell, José Luis Ronsini and Adrián Enrique Pedemonte.

Our Nomination and Compensation Committee

The Nomination and Compensation Committee was created to facilitate the analysis and monitoring of several issues based on good corporate governance practices. Said Committee is composed of 5 regular Directors, two of them independent and is chaired by of one independent Director. Even though under Argentine law the appointment of new members to the Board of Directors remains within exclusive power of the shareholders, this Committee assists the Board of Directors in the preparation and design of a succession plan for its members, in particular for the Chairman of the Board and the Chairman of the Audit Committee. This committee reviews the background, training and professional experience of potential candidates to serve the Board and determines their level of compensation in accordance with market standards. The members of the committee are the two independent directors, Messrs. Claudia Estecho and Miguel Maxwell, Eduardo J. Escasany, Pablo Gutierrez and Federico Braun.

Our Disclosure Committee

We have established a Disclosure Committee in response to the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The main responsibility of this committee is to review and approve controls on the public disclosure of financial and related information, and other procedures necessary that enable our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide their certifications for the annual report we file with the SEC. The members of this committee are Messrs. Fabian Kon, Bruno Folino, José Luis Ronsini, Adrián Enrique Pedemonte and Ms. Mariana Saavedra. In addition, at least one of the members of this committee attends all the meetings of our principal subsidiaries’ disclosure committees.

Our Supervisory Committee

Our bylaws provide for a Supervisory Committee consisting of three members who are referred to as syndics (“syndics”) and three alternate members who are referred to as alternate syndics (“alternate syndics”). In

accordance with the Corporations Law and our bylaws, the syndics and alternate syndics are responsible for ensuring that all of our actions are in accordance with applicable Argentine law. Syndics and alternate syndics are elected by the shareholders at the annual general shareholders’ meeting. Syndics and alternate syndics do not have management functions. Syndics are responsible for, among other things, preparing a report to shareholders analyzing our financial statements for each year and recommending to the shareholders whether to approve such financial statements. Alternate syndics act in the temporary or permanent absence of a syndic. Currently, there are three syndics and three alternate syndics. Syndics and alternate syndics are elected for a one-year term.

The following table shows the members of our Supervisory Committee. Each of our syndics was appointed at the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2020. Terms expire when the annual shareholders’ meeting takes place or as set forth below.

 

Name

Position

Principal Occupation

Current Term Ends

PositionPrincipal OccupationCurrent Term Ends

Antonio R. Garcés

SyndicAccountantApril 2021

Antonio R. Garcés

Syndic

Accountant

December 2019

José Luis Gentile

Syndic

Accountant

December 2019

Omar Severini

Syndic

Accountant

December 2019

Miguel N. Armando

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

December 2019

Fernando Noetinger

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

December 2019

Horacio Tedín

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

December 2019

The following is a summary of the biographies of the members of our Supervisory Committee:

Antonio Roberto Garcés: Mr. Garcés obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1959 and with Grupo Financiero Galicia since 2002. In April 1985, he was appointed as an alternate director of Banco Galicia. Subsequently, he was appointed as the vice chairman of Banco Galicia in September 2001, as the chairman of the board of directors of Banco Galicia from March 2002 until August 2002 and then as the vice chairman from August 2002 until April 2003, when he was elected to serve as chairman of Banco Galicia’s board of directors until 2011. From 2003 to 2010 he was the chairman of Grupo Financiero Galicia. From April 2012 until April 2019, Mr. Garcés was appointed as a regular director of Grupo Financiero Galicia. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Galicia Valores and Galicia Warrants.

José Luis Gentile: Mr. Gentile obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has provided services to Grupo Financiero Galicia since 1999 to March 2017, when he was Chief Financial Officer. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in

SyndicAccountantApril 2017. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Galicia Valores and Galicia Warrants, and an alternate syndic of Cobranzas Regionales, Tarjeta Naranja, and of other subsidiaries of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia.

2021

Omar Severini: Mr. Severini obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Belgrano and a degree in finance with a concentration in capital markets from UCEMA. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1978 and served in positions responsible for the regular audit from 1986 to 2009. He served as Internal Auditor Manager to Banco Galicia between 2009 and 2017. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in

SyndicAccountantApril 2018. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Galicia Valores, Galicia Warrants, Tarjetas Regionales, Tarjeta Naranja, and of other subsidiaries of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia.

2021

Miguel NorbertoN. Armando: Mr. Armando obtained a law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He was first elected as an alternate syndic of Banco Galicia from 1986 until 2017. He also acted as an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia between 1999 and January 2009 at which point he became a regular syndic until

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2009 and was reelected as an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia until April 2018. He was elected as an alternate syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019. He is the chairman of Arnoar S.A. Mr. Armando is also a regular syndic of EBA Holding S.A., Electrigal S.A. and an alternate syndic of Galicia Valores, Galicia Seguros, Sudamericana Holding, Marin and Finisterra, among others.

2021

Fernando Noetinger: Mr. Noetinger obtained

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2021

María law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. He was and has been an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia from September 1999 to June 2002 and from Matilde Hoenig

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2006 to date. Mr. Noetinger is also chairman of Villa Rosa S.A. and Doña Ines S.A., an alternate director of Arnoar S.A., and an alternate syndic of EBA Holding S.A., Electrigal S.A., Tarjetas Regionales, Galicia Warrants, Galicia Valores, Banco Galicia, Galicia Retiro, Galicia Seguros, and Sudamericana Holding, among others.


Horacio Tedín: Mr. Tedín obtained a law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. In 1981, he founded his own law firm, which has actively worked for Banco Galicia and other corporations. Mr. Tedín has been an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia since 2006. He is also a regular syndic of Marin S.A., Santamera S.A., Nucleamiento Inversor S.A.and Electrigal S.A. and an alternate syndic of EBA Holding S.A. and Galicia Valores, among others.

Management of Grupo Financiero Galicia

Our organizational structure consists of Chief Executive Officer who reports to the Board of Directors, and the Chief Financial Officer who reports to the Chief Executive Officer and is in charge of the Financial and Accounting Division.

The Chief Executive Officer’s primary responsibilities consist of implementing the policies defined by the Board of Directors, as well as providing recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding future plans, budgets and company organization. He is also responsible for supervising the Financial and Accounting Division and assessing the attainment of performance goals of Grupo Financiero Galicia. The Chief Executive Officer also participates in meetings of the Board of Directors of the Company and certain subsidiaries.

Our Chief Executive Officer is Mr. Pedro A. Richards, please see “─ Our Board of Directors”.

Our Chief Financial Officer is Mr. José Luis Ronsini. Mr. Ronsini obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He holds a Master in Finance from the University of CEMA, and attended the Senior Management Program at the Universidad de San Andrés. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 2001. He previously served as the Chief Credit Risk auditor, responsible for subsidiaries, Tarjetas Regionales, and Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A. Mr. Ronsini has served as General Accountant of Banco Galicia since 2012.

The Financial and Accounting Division is mainly responsible for the assessment of investment alternatives, thus suggesting whether to invest or withdraw Grupo Financiero Galicia’s positions in different companies or businesses. It also plans and coordinates Grupo Financiero Galicia’s administrative services and financial resources in order to guarantee its proper management. This division also aims at meeting requirements set by several controlling authorities, complying with information and internal control needs and budgeting purposes. Furthermore, it includes functions aimed at planning, preparing, coordinating, controlling and providing financial information to the stock exchanges where Grupo Financiero Galicia’s shares are listed, regulatory bodies and both domestic and international investors and analysts. It facilitates the provision of materials and responses to questions sent by shareholders and investors in general through a specifically designed “contact us”, located in our web page.

Our compensation policy, which is essentially the same as the policy followed by the companies that we control, consists of arranging salary levels in order of importance based on a system that describes and assesses job positions based on objective factors (the Hay System). The purpose of such system is to pay compensation that is similar to the compensation that is paid for a similar position in the domestic market. Managers who are our employees or our controlled companies’ employees receive a fixed salary and may receive a bonus based on individual performance. This policy for compensation includes the possibility of having access to retirement insurance. We do not maintain stock-option, profit-sharing or pension plans or any other retirement plans for the benefit of our managers.

We have established a Disclosure Committee in response to the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The main responsibility of this committee is to review and approve controls over the public disclosure of financial and related information, and other procedures necessary to enable our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer to provide their certifications of our annual report that is filed with the SEC. The members are Messrs. Pedro A. Richards, José Luis Ronsini, Adrián Enrique Pedemonte and Ms. Mariana Saavedra. In addition, at least one of the members of this committee attends all the meetings of our principal subsidiaries’ disclosure committees.

Board of Directors of Banco Galicia

At the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019, the size of Banco Galicia’s board of directors was set at six members and three alternate directors. The following table sets forth the members of Banco Galicia’s board of directors as of April 25, 2019, all of whom are residents of Buenos Aires, Argentina, the position currently


2021

The following is a summary of the biographies of the members of our Supervisory Committee:

Antonio Roberto Garcés: Mr. Garcés obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1959 and with Grupo Financiero Galicia since 2002. In April 1985, he was appointed as an alternate director of Banco Galicia. Subsequently, he was appointed as the vice chairman of Banco Galicia in September 2001, as the chairman of the board of directors of Banco Galicia from March 2002 until August 2002 and then as the vice chairman from August 2002 until April 2003, when he was elected to serve as chairman of Banco Galicia’s board of directors until 2011. From 2003 to 2010 he was the chairman of Grupo Financiero Galicia. From April 2012 until April 2019, Mr. Garcés was appointed as a regular director of Grupo Financiero Galicia. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Inviu, Galicia Warrants and Naranja.

José Luis Gentile: Mr. Gentile obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has provided services to Grupo Financiero Galicia since 1999 to March 2017. He served as Chief Financial Officer from 2003 to 2017. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2017. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Inviu and Galicia Warrants, and an alternate syndic of Cobranzas Regionales, Naranja, and of other subsidiaries of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Omar Severini: Mr. Severini obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad de Belgrano and a degree in finance with a concentration in capital markets from UCEMA. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1978 and served in positions responsible for the regular audit from 1986 to 2009. He served as Internal Auditor Manager to Banco Galicia between 2009 and 2017. He was elected as a regular syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2018. Additionally, he is a regular syndic of Inviu, Galicia Warrants, Tarjetas Regionales, Naranja, and of other subsidiaries of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia.

Miguel Norberto Armando: Mr. Armando obtained a law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He was first elected as an alternate syndic of Banco Galicia from 1986 until 2017. He also acted as an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia between 1999 and January 2009 at which point, he became a regular syndic until April 2009 and was reelected as an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia until April 2018. He was elected as an alternate syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in April 2019. He is the chairman of Arnoar S.A. Mr. Armando is also a regular syndic of EBA Holding S.A., Electrigal S.A. and an alternate syndic of Inviu, Galicia Seguros, Sudamericana Holding, Marin and Finisterra, among others.

Fernando Noetinger: Mr. Noetinger obtained a law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. He was and has been an alternate syndic of Grupo Financiero Galicia from September 1999 to June 2002 and from April 2006 to date. Mr. Noetinger is also chairman of Villa Rosa S.A. and Doña Ines S.A., an alternate director of Arnoar S.A., and an alternate syndic of EBA Holding S.A., Electrigal S.A., Tarjetas Regionales, Galicia Warrants, Inviu, Banco Galicia, Galicia Retiro, Galicia Seguros, and Sudamericana Holding, among others.

Maria Matilde Hoening: Mrs. Hoening obtained a law degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1971 and served in different positions until 2009. She was appointed as an alternate syndic of Banco Galicia and Grupo Financiero Galicia in 2020.

Management of Grupo Financiero Galicia

Our organizational structure consists of the Chief Executive Officer who reports to the Board of Directors, and the Chief Financial Officer & Compliance Officer (CFO&CO), Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Investor Relations Officer (IRO) each of whom reports to the Chief Executive Officer.

The Chief Executive Officer’s primary responsibilities consist of implementing the policies defined by the Board of Directors, as well as providing recommendations to the Executive Committee regarding future plans, budgets and company organization to be considered by the Board of Directors. He is also responsible for supervising the CFO&CO, CRO and IRO.

The Chief Financial Officer & Compliance is responsible for the designing of the financial and budgeting planning to be considered by the Executive Committee, including: proposing the framework of financial policies and applicable regulatory compliance with respect to controlled and investee companies, proposing the strategy and development of new businesses for GFG; monitoring the budget of controlled and investee companies, designing and proposing to the Executive Committee the policies in relation to tax, accounting and legal advisory services of GFG and its subsidiaries and investees; supervising the regulatory compliance framework applicable to GFG and its subsidiaries and affiliates and coordinating the operation of GFG’s administrative structure.

The Chief Risk Officer is responsible for advising on the design of the GFG’s Risk Management strategy and proposing the Executive Committee the Risk policies for the subsidiaries, supervising Risk management considering BCRA regulations and monitoring compliance of policies, rating process and fraud prevention.

The Investor Relations Officer is responsible for coordinating the institutional and investor relations activities at GFG.

Our Chief Executive Officer is Mr. Fabian Kon. Mr. Kon obtained a degree in national public accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has worked at Pistrelli, Diaz y Asociados, Accenture, Exolgan Container Terminal and Tradecom, in managerial positions. From 2006 to February 2014, he served as Galicia Seguros’ Chief Executive Officer and was appointed as Banco Galicia’s retail banking manager in March 2014. On October 7, 2015, Mr. Fabián Enrique Kon was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Banco Galicia. Mr. Kon is also the chairman of Sudamericana Holding, vice chairman of Tarjetas Regionales and director of Naranja. He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Financiero Galicia since July 2020.

Our Chief Financial Officer is Mr. Bruno Folino. Mr. Folino obtained an accounting degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He completed a post-graduate degree in Tax & Legal at the Universidad Austral and a Master in Science of Management from GSB Stanford University. He started his career as an auditor at Price Waterhouse & Co. before moving to the Tax & Legal Department. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1997 as Tax Manager and Planning Manager. He was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer & Compliance of Grupo Financiero since July 2020. Galicia. On March 2021, he was appointed Bank’s Risk Manager.

Our Chief Risk Officer is Mr. Diego Rivas. Mr. Rivas obtained a degree in business administration from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He also completed a postgraduate degree in finance at the CEMA and management development programs at IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland, as well as a postgraduate degree in Risk Management at the Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Rivas has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. In May 2016, he was appointed Risk Manager of Banco Galicia. Mr. Rivas is also vice chairman of Ondara and an alternate director of Naranja. He was appointed as the Chief Risk Officer of Grupo Financiero Galicia since July 2020. On March 2021, he was appointed Bank’s Planning Manager.

Our Investor Relations Officer is Mr. Pablo Firvida. Mr. Firvida obtained a degree in Industrial Engineering at the Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) and a Master in Finance at the Universidad del CEMA. He also attended a course of “ Management Development Program” at the IAE Business School. From 1990 to 1992 he worked as an economic analyst at the Compañía General de Combustibles. Later, from 1992 to 1996, he was an associate in “Investment Banking” at the Banco General de Negocios. Afterwards, from 1996 to 2003, he worked at Banco Galicia Capital Markets. From 2003 to 2008 he served as the Institutional Investor Relations Manager at Grupo Financiero Galicia. Since 2008 he has been working for Banco Galicia. In 2014 he was appointed the Banco Galicia Manager of Institutional and Investor Relations. He was appointed as Investor Relations Officer of Grupo Financiero Galicia since July 2020.

Board of Directors of Banco Galicia

At the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2020, the size of Banco Galicia’s board of directors was set at six members and three alternate directors. The following table sets forth the members of Banco Galicia’s board of directors as of April 28, 2020, all of whom are residents of Buenos Aires, Argentina, the position currently held by each of them, their dates of birth, their principal occupations, the dates of their appointment and the year in which their current terms will expire. The business address of the members of the Banco Galicia’s board of directors is Tte. General J. D. Perón 430, 24th floor (C1038AAI) Buenos Aires, Argentina.

 

Name

PositionDate of BirthPrincipal
Occupation
Member SinceCurrent
Term Ends

Sergio Grinenco

Chairman of the BoardMay 26, 1948BankerApril 2012April 2023

Raúl Héctor Seoane

VicechairmanJuly 18, 1953EconomistApril 2012April 2023

Guillermo J. Pando

Secretary DirectorOctober 23, 1948BankerApril 2003April 2023

María Elena Casasnovas (1)

DirectorMay 10, 1951LawyerApril 2016April 2022

Juan Carlos L’Afflitto

DirectorSeptember 15, 1958AccountantApril 2016April 2022

Gastón Bourdieu

DirectorAugust 31, 1956
Agricultural
Administration

April 2018April 2021

Ignacio A. González (2)

Alternate DirectorApril 23, 1944AccountantApril 2018April 2023

Verónica Lagos Mármol (2)

Alternate DirectorNovember 14, 1972EconomistApril 2020April 2023

Augusto R. Zapiola Macnab

Alternate DirectorJune 27, 1947EconomistApril 2013April 2022

 

(1)

Position

Date of Birth

Principal

Occupation

Member Since

Current

Term Ends

Sergio Grinenco

Chairman  of the Board

May 26, 1948

Banker

April 2012

April 2020

Raúl Héctor Seoane

Vicechairman

July 18, 1953

Economist

April 2012

April 2020

Guillermo J. Pando

Secretary Director

October 23, 1948

Banker

April 2003

April 2020

María Elena Casasnovas (1)

Director

May 10, 1951

Lawyer

April 2016

April 2022

Juan Carlos L’Afflitto

Director

September 15, 1958

Accountant

April 2016

April 2022

Gastón Bourdieu

Director

August 31, 1956

Agricultural Administration

April 2018

April 2021

Ignacio A. González (2)

Alternate Director

April 23, 1944

Accountant

April 2018

April 2020

Enrique García Pinto (2)

Alternate Director

August 10, 1948

April 2009

April 2020

Augusto R. Zapiola Macnab

Alternate Director

June 27, 1947

Economist

April 2013

April 2022

(1) In accordance with the rules of the CNV, and pursuant to the classifications adopted by the CNV, Mrs. Casasnovas is an independent director. Mrs. Casasnovas is also an independent director in accordance with the Nasdaq rules.

(2)

(2) In accordance with the rules of the CNV, and pursuant to the classifications adopted by the CNV, Messrs. Gonzalez and García PintoLagos Mármol are independent alternate directors. We would replace the independent director in case of vacancy. Messrs. González and García PintoLagos Mármol are also independent directors in accordance with the Nasdaq rules.

The following are the biographies of the members of the board of directors of Banco Galicia:

Sergio Grinenco:See “Our Board of Directors”.

Raúl Héctor Seoane: Mr. Seoane obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1988. Mr. Seoane was first elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia from 2005 until December 2011, and in April 2012 was elected as a director. He is also a vice chairman of Distrocuyo S.A. and an alternate trustee of Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

Guillermo Juan Pando:Mr. Pando has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1969. He was first elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia from September 2001 until June 2002, and in April 2003 he was elected as a director. He is also the chairman of Santiago Salud S.A. and Distrocuyo S.A., vice chairman of Electrigal S.A., and an alternate trustee of Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

María Elena Casasnovas: Mrs. Casasnovas obtained a degree in law from the Universidad Católica Argentina. She completed the Program for High Management at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella and the Senior Management Program at Universidad San Andrés. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1972. In April 2016, she was elected as a director.

Juan Carlos L’Afflitto:Mr. L’Afflitto obtained a degree in national public accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He worked as advisor and accountant at Morgan, Benedit y Asociados and until 1990 he was a professor at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1986. In April 2016, he was elected as a director.

Gastón Bourdieu: Mr. Bourdieu obtained a degree in agricultural administration from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He has been associated with Banco Galicia from 1981 to 2017. He was appointed as a director of Banco Galicia in April 2018. He is also a director of Maradona S.A.

Ignacio Abel González: Mr. González obtained a degree in national public accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires and a master in Auditing at Drew University, New Jersey. Previously, he served as a Member of the International Committee of Finance & Value Sharing, PricewaterhouseCoopers. He was appointed as director of Banco Galicia in April 2010 and he was elected as an alternate director in April 2018. He is also director of IDEA and syndic of Sociedad Anónima La Nación, Nuevos Medios La Nación, Publirevistas, Sociedad Anónima Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia, and the founder and president of P.O.D.E.R (Polo de Desarrollo Educativo Renovador).


Enrique García Pinto: Mr. García Pinto has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1970. Previous to such time he served at Nobleza Piccardo SAYCYF and Saturno Agropecuaria SCA. Mr. García Pinto was appointed as an alternate director of Banco Galicia at the shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2009. He is also director of Distrocuyo S.A.

Augusto Rodolfo Zapiola Macnab: Mr. Zapiola Macnab obtained a degree in economics from the Pontificia Universidad Catolica Argentina. He has been associated with Banco Galicia from June 1978 until September 2002. He was elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia in April 2013. He was elected as an alternate director on the Board of Directors of Grupo Galicia in April 2015.

Functions of the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia

Banco Galicia’s board of directors may consist of three to nine permanent members. In addition, there can be one or more alternate directors who can act during the temporary or permanent absence of a director. As of the date of this annual report, none of the directors were also employees.

The Board of Directors formally meets at least twice a week and informally every day, and is in charge of Banco Galicia's general management and takes all the necessary decisions to fulfill said task.

Members of the Bank’s Board of Directors serve in the following committees:

Human Resources and Governance Committee: It is composed of two Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, and the Organizational Development and Human Resources Division Manager. This Committee is responsible for presenting a succession plan for the Chief Executive Officer and the Division Manager positions, analyzing and establishing the compensation for the Chief Executive Officer and Division Managers, and monitoring the performance matrix of Division Managers and Department Managers. The Committee meets every two months or whenever there are issues that require urgent consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Strategy and New Businesses Committee: This Committee is composed of three Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, and the Planning and Risk Management Division Managers. It is in charge of analyzing new businesses. The Committee meets at least once every two months. It can hold extraordinary meetings in case there is any issue that requires urgent consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Risk and Capital Allocation Committee: This Committee is composed of five Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, and the Risk Management and Planning Division Managers. It is in charge of analyzing and approving capital allocations, establishing risk policies and monitoring the Bank’s risks. The Committee meets at least once every two months. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Liquidity Crisis Committee: This Committee is composed of three Directors and the Chief Executive Officer. The Committee may call those officers whose participation is deemed relevant. It is in charge of evaluating the situation upon facing a liquidity crisis and deciding the steps to be implemented to tackle it. The Committee shall meet when convened by the Board of Directors and shall hold sessions as may be required until the liquidity crisis ends. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Asset and Liability Management Committee (ALCO): Three Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Retail Banking, the Wholesale Banking, the Financial Banking, the Risk and Planning Division Managers are members of this Committee. It is in charge of fund raising and different asset allocations. Moreover, this Committee is in charge of the follow-up and control of liquidity, interest-rate and currency gaps. The Committee meets at least once a month. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

High Credit Committee: This Committee is composed of four Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Risk Division Manager and the Wholesale Banking Manager. It is in charge of approving and granting ratings and loans to high risk customers and groups. The Committee meets at least once a week. Approved operations are recorded in chronologically numbered spreadsheets.


Low Credit Committee: This Committee is composed of two Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Risk Division Manager. This Committee is responsible for approving and granting ratings and loans to medium risk customers and groups. The Committee meets at least twice a week. Approved operations are recorded in chronologically numbered spreadsheets.

Audit Committee: In accordance with the Argentine Central Bank’s regulations, the Bank formed an Audit Committee composed of two Directors and the Internal Audit Manager. The Committee is in charge of supervising the adequacy and conformity, as well as the effective functioning of the internal control systems so as to ensure compliance with all the Bank’s rules submitted to the Argentine Central Bank and the self-regulated entities of the capital market. The Committee meets at least once a month. Its resolutions are entered in minutes, which are transcribed in signed books.

Committee for the Control and Prevention of Money Laundering and Funding of Terrorist Activities: This Committee is composed of four Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Compliance and Prevention of Money Laundering Manager, the Internal Audit Manager, and the Managers of the following Divisions: Risk, Financial Banking, Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking and Comprehensive Corporate Services. The Financial Banking Division Manager is the officer in charge of financial intermediation transactions. The Syndics can be invited to attend any meeting called by this Committee. This Committee is responsible for planning, coordinating and enforcing compliance with the policies on the issue established and approved by the Board of Directors. The Committee meets at least once per quarter. Resolutions must be registered in a minutes book.

Committee for Information Integrity: This Committee is composed of three Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Planning Division Manager. The Syndics can be invited to attend any meeting called by this Committee. A member of the Committee that was created for the same purpose by Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. shall also attend the meetings held by this Committee. This Committee is in charge of promoting compliance with the provisions set forth in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of the United States of America. The Committee meets at least every three months or whenever there are issues that require consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Information Technology Committee: This Committee is composed of three Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Comprehensive Corporate Services Division Manager. This Committee is in charge of supervising and approving the development plans of new systems and their budgets, as well as supervising these systems’ budget control. It is also responsible for approving the general design of the systems’ structure, the main processes thereof and the systems implemented, as well as monitoring the quality of the Bank’s systems, within the policies established by the Board of Directors. The Information Technology Committee meets at least once every three months. It can hold extraordinary meetings in case there is any issue that requires urgent consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Income Statement Reporting Committee: This Committee is composed of five Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Planning Division Manager. It is in charge of monitoring management and income statements, along with evaluating the macroeconomic situation. The Committee meets at least once per quarter. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Compliance Committee: This Committee is composed of five Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the Risk Division Manager and the Compliance and Prevention of Money Laundering Manager. This Committee is responsible for promoting respect for standards, principles of good conduct and ethical values of Banco Galicia, and mitigating the risk of non-compliance with the same by establishing policies, controls and reporting protocols. The Committee meets at least once per quarter or whenever there are issues that require urgent consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.

Committee of Protection to the User of Financial Services: This Committee is composed of least two Directors, the Compliance and Prevention of Money Laundering Manager, the Operational Risk Manager, the Legal Advice Manager and the Experience Management Manager of the Customer Experience Area. This Committee is responsible of monitoring the activities of managers and senior directors involved in the internal processes for customer protection to ensure such employees are adequately complying with legal and regulatory standards. The Committee meets at least once per quarter or whenever there are issues that require urgent consideration. Its resolutions are summarized in writing in minutes.


These committees provide written minutes on a monthly basis to the Board of Directors .

Banco Galicia’s Supervisory Committee

Banco Galicia’s bylaws provide for a Supervisory Committee consisting of three syndics and three alternate syndics. Pursuant to Argentine law and to the provisions of Banco Galicia’s bylaws, Banco Galicia’s syndics and alternate syndics are responsible of ensuring that all of Banco Galicia’s actions are in accordance with applicable Argentine law. Syndics and alternate syndics do not participate in business management and cannot have managerial functions of any type. Syndics are responsible for, among other things, the preparation of a report to the shareholders analyzing Banco Galicia’s financial statements for each year and the recommendation to the shareholders as to whether to approve such financial statements. Syndics and alternate syndics are elected at the ordinary shareholders’ meeting for a one-year term and they can be re-elected. Alternate syndics act in the temporary or permanent absence of a syndic.

The table below shows the composition of Banco Galicia’s Supervisory Committee as they were re-elected by the annual shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019.

The following are the biographies of the members of the board of directors of Banco Galicia:

Sergio Grinenco: See “—Our Board of Directors”.

Raúl Héctor Seoane: Mr. Seoane obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1988. Mr. Seoane was first elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia from 2005 until December 2011, and in April 2012 was elected as a director. He is also a vice chairman of Distrocuyo S.A. and an alternate trustee of Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

Guillermo Juan Pando: Mr. Pando has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1969. He was first elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia from September 2001 until June 2002, and in April 2003 he was elected as a director. He is also the chairman of Santiago Salud S.A. and Distrocuyo S.A., vice chairman of Electrigal S.A., and an alternate trustee of Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires.

María Elena Casasnovas: Mrs. Casasnovas obtained a degree in law from the Universidad Católica Argentina. She completed the Program for High Management at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella and the Senior Management Program at Universidad San Andrés. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1972. In April 2016, she was elected as a director.

Juan Carlos L’Afflitto: Mr. L’Afflitto obtained a degree in national public accounting at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He worked as advisor and accountant at Morgan, Benedit y Asociados and until 1990 he was a professor at the Universidad Católica Argentina. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1986. In April 2016, he was elected as a director.

Gastón Bourdieu: Mr. Bourdieu obtained a degree in agricultural administration from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He has been associated with Banco Galicia from 1981 to 2017. He was appointed as a director of Banco Galicia in April 2018. He is also a director of Maradona S.A.

Ignacio Abel González: Mr. González obtained a degree in national public accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires and a master in Auditing at Drew University, New Jersey. Previously, he served as a Member of the International Committee of Finance & Value Sharing, PricewaterhouseCoopers. He was appointed as director of Banco Galicia in April 2010 and he was elected as an alternate director in April 2018. He is also director of IDEA and syndic of Sociedad Anónima La Nación, Nuevos Medios La Nación, Publirevistas, Sociedad Anónima Importadora y Exportadora de la Patagonia, and the founder and president of P.O.D.E.R (Polo de Desarrollo Educativo Renovador).

Enrique García Pinto: Mr. García Pinto has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1970. Before that, he served at Nobleza Piccardo SAYCYF and Saturno Agropecuaria SCA. Mr. García Pinto was appointed as an alternate director of Banco Galicia at the shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2009. He is also director of Distrocuyo S.A.

Augusto Rodolfo Zapiola Macnab: Mr. Zapiola Macnab obtained a degree in economics from the Pontificia Universidad Catolica Argentina. He has been associated with Banco Galicia from June 1978 until September 2002. He was elected as an alternate director of Banco Galicia in April 2013. He was elected as an alternate director on the Board of Directors of Grupo Galicia in April 2015.

Functions of the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia

Banco Galicia’s board of directors may consist of three to nine permanent members. In addition, there can be one or more alternate directors who can act during the temporary or permanent absence of a director. As of the date of this annual report, none of the directors were also employees.

The Board of Directors meets formally at least twice a week and informally every day and is responsible for the general administration of Banco Galicia, making all the decisions required for that purpose.

Members of the Bank’s Board of Directors serve in the following committees:

Human Resources and Governance Committee: the Committee, is subdivided into the Nominating Committee and the Compensation Committee. The Nomination Sub-Committee is responsible for nominating successors for the roles of the General Manager and Area Managers and analyzing and setting the compensation to be paid to the General Manager and Area Managers. On the other hand, the Compensation Committee is responsible for submitting, analyzing and suggesting the level of compensation to be paid to the Board of Directors, the General Manager and Area Managers, and for monitoring the performance of Department Managers and Area Managers.

Risk and Capital Allocation Committee: this committee is responsible for approving and analyzing capital allocation, setting up risk policies and monitoring risks for the Bank.

High Credits Committee: this committee is responsible for approving and subscribing the qualifications and awards of operations of customers and high-risk groups. It meets at least once a week.

Low Credits Committee: this committee is responsible for approving and subscribing the qualifications and awards of operations of customers and high-risk groups. It meets at least biweekly.

Systems Committee: this committee is responsible for supervising and approving new systems development plans and their budgets; supervising the budgetary control of developments; approving the general designs of the systems structure, the main processes, and systems to be implemented; and supervising the quality of the services, in accordance with the policies established by the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia.

Audit Committee: the Committee is responsible for assisting the Board of Directors in controlling the Bank and its controlled and investee companies, in order to reasonably ensure the following objectives: effectiveness and efficiency of operations; reliability of accounting information; compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and compliance with the objectives and strategy set by the board.

Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention and Control Committee: this committee is the body in charge of planning, coordinating and ensuring compliance with the policies established in this area, upon approval by the Board of Directors.

Disclosure Committee: this committee was created to comply with the provisions of the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Asset and Liability Committee (“ALCO”): this committee is responsible for analyzing the collection of resources and placement in different assets, monitoring and controlling liquidity gaps, interest rates and currencies and managing such gaps.

Strategy and New Businesses Committee: this committee is responsible for analyzing new business.

Liquidity Crisis Committee: this committee is responsible for assessing situations of liquidity crisis and deciding the actions to be implemented aimed at its resolution. It will meet when the Chairman of the Board of Directors summons it and will meet permanently until the end of the liquidity crisis.

Profit and Loss Report Committee: this committee is responsible for monitoring the management and the income and evaluating macroeconomic global situations.

Compliance Committee: this committee is in charge of promoting respect for the rules, principles of good conduct, the Integrity Program and the Bank’s Code of Ethics, and mitigating the non-compliance risk, through the definition of policies, the establishment of controls and reports in the best interest of the Bank, its employees, shareholders and customers.

Financial Services User Protection Committee: this committee is responsible for monitoring the activities carried out by managerial levels and authorities involved in the internal process of user protection, in order to properly comply with legal and regulatory standards.

Information Assets Protection Committee: this committee is responsible for generating/having an agile and professional environment for the definition of and decision-making regarding strategies/policies related to the information security of the Bank.

Banco Galicia’s Supervisory Committee

Banco Galicia’s bylaws provide for a Supervisory Committee consisting of three syndics and three alternate syndics. According to the General Companies Act and the BCRA regulations, the responsibility of the Syndics of the Supervisory Committee, both regular and alternate, responsibility is to ensure that all of the Bank’s actions are in accordance with applicable Argentine law. The Syndic and Alternate Syndic do not participate in the business administration of the Bank, and do not have and cannot have managerial functions. They are responsible,

among other things, for preparing a report to the shareholders regarding the Bank’s financial statements of each fiscal year. The Syndic and Alternate Syndic are appointed by the shareholders at their Annual Ordinary Meeting, for one-year periods, and may be reelected. The Alternate Syndics act as Regular Syndics in case of temporary or permanent absence of the Syndics.

The table below shows the composition of Banco Galicia’s Supervisory Committee as they were re-elected by the annual shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2020.

 

Name

Position

Principal Occupation

Current Term Ends

PositionPrincipal OccupationCurrent Term Ends

Omar Severini

SyndicAccountantApril 2021

Jose Luis Gentile

SyndicAccountantApril 2021

Omar Severini

Syndic

Accountant

April 2020

Jose Luis Gentile

Syndic

Accountant

April 2020

Antonio R. Garces (*)

Syndic

Accountant

April 2020

Fernando Noetinger

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

April 2020

Miguel N. Armando (*)

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

April 2020

Horacio Tedín

Alternate Syndic

Lawyer

April 2020

*“Ad referendum” of the authorization of the Argentine Central Bank.

For the biographies of Messrs, Omar Severini, José Luis Gentile, Antonio R. Garces

SyndicAccountantApril 2021

Fernando Noetinger and

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2021

Miguel N. Armando and Horacio Tedín, see “Our Supervisory Committee”.

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2021

Banco Galicia’s Executive Officers

On October 7, 2015, Mr. Fabián Enrique Kon was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Banco Galicia. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for implementing the strategic goals established by Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors and coordinating with the Managers of the Bank’s Divisions. Mr. Kon reports to the Board of Directors.

Fabián Enrique Kon: Mr. Kon obtained María degree in national public accounting from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has worked at Pistrelli, Diaz y Asociados, Accenture, Exolgan Container Terminal and Tradecom, in managerial positions. From 2006 to February 2014, he served as Galicia Seguros’ Chief Executive Officer and was appointed as Banco Galicia’s retail banking manager in March 2014. Mr. Kon is also the chairman of Sudamericana Holding, vice chairman of Tarjetas Regionales and director of Tarjeta Naranja.Matilde Hoenig

Alternate SyndicLawyerApril 2021

For the biographies of Messrs., Omar Severini, José Luis Gentile, Antonio R. Garces, Fernando Noetinger and Miguel N. Armando and María Matilde Hoening, see “—Our Supervisory Committee”.

Banco Galicia’s Executive Officers

On October 7, 2015, Mr. Fabián Enrique Kon was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Banco Galicia. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for implementing the strategic goals established by Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors and coordinating with the Managers of the Bank’s Divisions. Mr. Kon reports to the Board of Directors.

Fabián Enrique Kon: please see “— Management of Grupo Financiero Galicia”

As of the date of this annual report, the following divisions and department managers report to Banco Galicia’s Chief Executive Officer:

 

Division

Manager

Wholesale Banking

Marcelo Iraola

Retail Banking

German Alejandro Ghisoni

Financial Banking

Pablo María León

Risk

Bruno Folino

Products and Technology

María Marcela Fernie

People

Rafael Pablo Bergés

Planning and Finance

Diego Rivas

Wholesale Banking Area Management: it is responsible for obtaining a broad segment vision and, in turn, a greater alignment with the current situation and future business perspectives. Its main responsibilities are to design, plan and implement the vision, strategies, policies and objectives for the Wholesale Banking business and for each of the customers segments, as well as to define and control business objectives, with the purpose of ensuring that they are adjusted competitively to the demands of the industry and to the strategic objectives of the Bank, guaranteeing the volume, profitability, quality and customer satisfaction, within the framework of the established risk levels. The following departments report to this division: (i) Agribusinesses and Companies (ii) Corporate Banking, Investment Banking and Capital Market, (iii) Transactional Services and (iv) Companies Tribe.

Retail Banking Area Management: it is responsible for facilitating the decision-making process, improving the commercial effectiveness of the Retail Banking sector and improving the customer focus. Its main responsibilities are to design, plan and implement the vision, strategies, policies and objectives for the Retail Banking business and for each of the customers segments and distribution channels, as well as to define and control business objectives, with the purpose of ensuring that they are in tune with the competitive demands of the industry and the strategic objectives of the Bank, guaranteeing volume, profitability, quality and customer satisfaction, within the framework of the established risk levels. The following departments report to this division: (i) Retail Tribe, (ii) Contactability Tribe, (iii) Branches, (iv) Loyalty Tribe, (v) Private Banking (vi) Brand experience and (vii) Retail Planning.

Division

Manager

Financial Banking Area Management: it is responsible for administering the financial position of the Bank, negotiating rates, funds, incentives and campaigns with the different areas, and promoting the regulatory, technical and informative support in the management of assets and liabilities, in order to guarantee the control of the liquidity, rate, currency and industry risks, and compliance with current policy and legal regulations. It is also responsible for planning, proposing and implementing the strategy for the development and maintenance of commercial relations with international banks, international organizations, international investment funds and binational chambers with the purpose of consolidating the bank’s image in international industries and guaranteeing the smooth development of the international business in accordance with the growth and profitability objectives set by the organization. The following departments report to this division: (i) Trading & Global Markets, (ii) Commercial, (iii) Financial Institutions, (iv) Investment Products and Global Custody and (v) Public Sector.

Risks Area Management: it is responsible for maintaining an effective risk management system in compliance with the best practices developed globally and optimizing the credit process in order to provide a better service to customers. It is responsible for actively and comprehensively monitoring and managing the different risks of the Bank and its subsidiaries. It is responsible for ensuring compliance with the policies, qualification and fraud prevention processes, thus guaranteeing the quality of the retail portfolio; designing and auditing mass decision tools; making decisions on the use/development of credit scoring models; conducting alignment actions to retail commercial strategies; and accompanying the business area of the retail segment, making recommendations regarding business opportunities, according to the strategic vision and policies, both external and internal, acting as the Bank’s first line of defense for the retail banking segment. The following departments report to this division: (i) Retail Credits, (ii) Wholesale Credits, (iii) Credit Recovery, (iv) Financial Risk and Capital Management, (v) Analytical Solutions Center, (vi) Data & Analytics Tribe and (vii) Information Security.

Products and Technology Area Management: it is responsible for integrating all the operations of the Bank in a single area, in order to improve the efficiency of operational processes and accelerate the development of products and new technologies. The following departments report to this division: (i) Collections and Payments Tribe, (ii) Lending Tribe, (iii) Foreign Trade Tribe, (iv) Everyday Banking Tribe, (v) Payment Acquisition Tribe, (vi) Technology and (vii) Operations.

People Area Management: it is responsible for incorporating and developing new talents, fostering a framework that motivates employees and maintaining an excellent working environment. Additionally, it is responsible for all the matters related to the physical workspace of the employees and the distribution of the space used by clients. The following departments report to this division: (i) Design and Innovation, (ii) Human Resources Management and Compensation, (iii) Cultural Transformation, (iv) Persons Advice, (v) Sustainability, (vi) Customer Journey Tribe (vii) Corporate Infrastructure, (viii) Branch Offices Infrastructure and (ix) Labor Relations and Corporate Security.

Planning Area Management: it is responsible for planning, coordinating and controlling the development and maintenance of budgeting, planning, accounting, tax activities, payments to suppliers, legal aspects and compliance, in order to ensure that the management has the information needed for the decision-making processes, management control, and the satisfaction of the Bank’s information requirements, as well as to ensure compliance with the information requirements that shall enable the Bank to obtain long-term, strategic sources of financing. It is also responsible for coordinating, planning and monitoring compliance with the strategy of liquidity, interest rates and currency gaps, within the limits of the established policies, making proposals to the Assets and Liabilities Committee (ALCO) regarding the management of such gaps in order to maximize income within the limits of policies. Additionally, it is in charge of institutional relationships and the objective and key results (“OKR”) and processes office. The following departments report to this division: (i) Accounting, (ii) Tax Advice and Strategic Supply, (iii) Management Control and Strategic Planning, (iv) Research, (v) Assets and Liabilities Management, (vi) Legal Advice and Compliance, (vii) Transformation Offices and (viii) Institutional Relations.

Department

Manager

Internal Audit

Claudio Scarso

Wholesale Banking

Marcelo Iraola

Retail Banking

German Alejandro Ghisoni

Financial Banking

Pablo María León

Risk Management

Diego Rivas

Comprehensive Corporate Services

María Marcela Fernie

Organizational Development and Human Resources

Rafael Pablo Bergés

Planning

Bruno Folino

Customer Experience

Flavio Dogliolo


Wholesale Banking Division: This division is responsible for designing, planning and implementing the vision, strategies, policies and goals for the Wholesale Banking’s businesses and for each customer segment (large-corporations, middle-market and agricultural companies) and products. It is also responsible for defining and controlling this division’s business goals, ensuring that these goals meet market demands and remain aligned with the Bank’s strategic objectives, guaranteeing volume, profitability, quality and customer satisfaction, within the preset risk levels. Furthermore, this division is responsible for proposing and developing banking products for the corporate segment and a customer service model tailored to each customer segment in order to ensure that growth and profitability targets are met. The following departments report to this division: Large-Corporations Banking, Investment Banking and Capital Market, Wholesale Products and Marketing, Agribusiness Sector and Middle-Market Banking.

Retail Banking Division: This division is responsible for designing, planning and implementing the vision, strategies, policies and goals for the Retail Banking’s businesses and for each customer segment (Private Banking, Eminent, Individuals, and SMEs) and the distribution channels (Branch Network and Alternative Channels). It is also responsible for defining and controlling this division’s business goals, ensuring that these goals meet market demands and remain aligned with the Bank’s strategic objectives and guaranteeing volume, profitability, quality and customer satisfaction, while managing risk levels. Furthermore, this division is responsible for proposing and developing the advertising plan, banking products for their consumer segments and a customer service model tailored to each customer segment and also ensuring that growth, profitability and customer service targets are met. The following departments report to this division: Segments, Products, Private Banking, Advertising, Branches, Digital, Customer Contact Center and Retail Planning.

Financial Banking Division: This division is responsible for designing, planning and implementing the vision, strategies, policies and goals for the Financial Banking Division, to ensure the provision of funding, compliance with mismatch policies, and the attainment of liquidity targets, while optimizing performance and ensuring the achievement of the Bank’s business goals with respect to volume and profitability. Furthermore, this division is responsible for managing the financial position of the Bank, negotiating rates, funds, incentives and campaigns with different areas, and providing regulatory, information and technical support for the management of assets and liabilities, aiming to guarantee the control of liquidity, rate, currency and market risks and the compliance with applicable legal and policy provisions. In addition, this division plans, proposes and implements the strategy for the development and maintenance of business relations with international banks, international entities, international mutual funds and bi-national clearing houses with the aim of enhancing the Bank’s image in international markets and ensuring efficient business operations based on the growth and profitability targets established by the organization. The following departments report to this division: Commercial, Financial Institutions, Public Sector, Investment Products and Global Custody and Trading.

Risk Management Division: This division is responsible for elaborating, suggesting and agreeing on credit, financial and operational risk strategies and policies designed for the Bank and its affiliated companies, monitoring efficiency and compliance with control procedures with a focus on prevention and categorizing and measuring risks in order to be able to minimize or eliminate risks and/or allocate the appropriate capital to successfully prevent such risks. This division is also responsible for the monitoring and oversight of compliance with the policies on control and prevention of money laundering and funding of terrorist activities in order to minimize reputational risks, thus ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and international standards. The following departments report to this division: Financial Risk, Retail Credit, Wholesale Credit, Recovery, Strategic Risk Management, Model Factory and Information Security.

Comprehensive Corporate Services Division: This division is responsible for designing, planning and implementing the strategies and policies for the IT, Operations, and Infrastructure divisions, and the maintenance thereof, with the goal of ensuring and maintaining the administrative support for its operations and activities, by means of a functional coordination of all services, and the human and technological resources available to the Bank. Furthermore, this division is responsible for developing and proposing innovations and new solutions to business processes, and preparing the expense and investment budget. The following departments report to this division: Operations, Systems, and Engineering and Maintenance.

Organizational Development and Human Resources Division: This division is responsible for designing, planning and implementing Human Resources strategies and policies, as well as defining and controlling


management goals of the Bank’s human resources with the purpose of ensuring consistent practices, availability of qualified and motivated personnel, and a proper work environment, in accordance with the applicable social security and employment legislation and with the Bank’s culture and values. Furthermore, this division is responsible for directing corporate social responsibility activities and the internal communication, with the goal of enhancing the Bank’s image with focus on social responsibility, promoting employee loyalty, and applying social marketing to obtain the Bank’s competitive advantage. The following departments report to this division: Human Resources Advisory, Human Resources Management, Compensation, Sustainability, Talent Management, Internal Communications and Culture, Labor Relations and Safety.

Planning Division: This division is responsible for planning, coordinating and controlling the development and maintenance of budget, planning, accounting, tax and legal activities, with the aim of providing management with information to facilitate decision-making processes, management control, and compliance with disclosure requirements, as well as guaranteeing the availability of information that may allow the Bank to obtain strategic, long-term financing. Furthermore, this division is responsible for planning and ensuring compliance with the liquidity, interest rates and currency mismatches strategies, within the limits of the policies established, formulating proposals to the Asset and Liabilities Committee related to the management of such mismatches in order to maximize income in conformity with the Bank’s policies. In addition, it provides legal advice to different sectors of Banco Galicia to conduct business in accordance with applicable regulations. The following departments report to this division: Accounting, Management Control, Tax Advice, Research and Strategic Planning, Assets and Liabilities Management, Legal Advice, Purchases and Institutional Relations.

Customer Experience: This division is responsible for defining and pursuing the Bank’s customer experience strategy to gain a competitive and differentiating edge in the financial services market. The following departments report to this division: NPS Operation, Organization, Initiatives, and Analysis and Indicators.

The following departments report to the board of directors of Banco Galicia:

Department

Manager

Internal Audit

Claudio Scarso

Compliance and Prevention of Money Laundering

Teresa del Carmen Piraino

Internal Audit Department Division: This division is responsible for assessing and monitoring the effectiveness, conformity and efficiency of internal control systems with the goal of ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Compliance and Prevention of Money Laundering Department Division: This division is responsible for coordinating and monitoring compliance with the policies established by Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors on control and prevention of money laundering and funding of terrorist activities in order to minimize reputational risks, thus ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and international standards. This division is responsible for encouraging compliance with Banco Galicia’s rules, good conduct principles and ethical values, and mitigating the risk of non-compliance by defining policies, establishing controls and reports in the best interest of the Bank, its employees, shareholders and customers.

The following are the biographies of Banco Galicia’s senior executive officers mentioned above:

Marcelo Iraola: Mr. Iraola obtained a degree in law from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He completed the Program for Executive Development at Instituto Argentino de Empresas and a business management program at the Universidad de San Andres. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1988. He is also the chairman of Galicia Warrants, a director of Sudamericana Holding S.A. and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales.

Germán Alejandro Ghisoni: Mr. Ghisoni obtained a degree in business management from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He completed the Program for Executive Development at Instituto Argentino de Empresas, the Strategic Management in Banking Program at INSEAD and the Customer Centric Organitatios at Kellogg School of Management. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1995. He is also a director of Sudamericana Holding and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales and Tarjeta Naranja.


Pablo Maria Leon: Mr. Leon obtained a degree in finance from the Universidad de Palermo and two executive development programs at Instituto Argentino de Empresas and IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. He is also the chairman of Galicia Valores and director of Argenclear S.A.

Diego Rivas: Mr. Rivas obtained a degree in business administration from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He also completed a postgraduate degree in finance at the CEMA and management development programs at IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland, as well as a postgraduate degree in Risk Management at the Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Rivas has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. In May 2016, he was appointed Risk Control Area Manager of Banco Galicia. Mr. Rivas is also vice chairman of Ondara and an alternate director of Tarjeta Naranja.

Maria Marcela Fernie: Ms. Fernie obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 2011. She is a director of COELSA and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales and Tarjeta Naranja.

Rafael Pablo Bergés: Mr. Bergés obtained a degree in industrial engineering from Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since August 2010. Prior to such time, he worked at Techint and at a several multinational companies in managerial positions. From 1998 to 2009, he was vice president of the Human Resources Division of Grupo Telefónica.

Bruno Folino: Mr. Folino obtained an accounting degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He completed a post-graduate degree in Tax & Legal at the Universidad Austral and a Master in Science of Management from GSB Stanford University. He started his career as an auditor at Price Waterhouse & Co. before moving to the Tax & Legal Department. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1997 as Tax Manager and Planning Manager. In 2012, he was appointed Planning Manager.

Flavio Dogliolo: Mr. Dogliolo obtained a degree in business administration from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He received an MBA from the Universidad Austral. He was the manager of means of payments and automatic banking at Banco Bansud S.A., manager of quality and service productivity at Banco Río de la Plata S.A. and he worked in marketing database and commercial planning at Siembra AFJP S.A. He has been associated with the Bank since 1998.

Claudio Scarso: Mr. Scarso obtained a degree in systems engineering from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1995.

Teresa del Carmen Piraino: Ms. Piraino obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. She completed a post-graduate degree in Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Crime Prevention from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1992.

Compensation

Internal Audit Departmental Management: its mission is to evaluate and monitor the efficiency, adequacy and defectiveness of the internal control systems, in order to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Money Laundering Prevention Departmental Management: it is responsible for coordinating and supervising compliance with the policies established by the Board of Directors in terms of money laundering and terrorist financing control and prevention, ensuring compliance with current regulations and international standards.

The following are the biographies of Banco Galicia’s senior executive officers mentioned above:

Marcelo Iraola: Mr. Iraola obtained a degree in law from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. He completed the Program for Executive Development at Instituto Argentino de Empresas and a business management program at the Universidad de San Andres. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1988. He is also the chairman of Galicia Warrants, a director of Sudamericana Holding S.A. and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales.

Germán Alejandro Ghisoni: Mr. Ghisoni obtained a degree in business management from the Universidad Católica Argentina. He completed the Program for Executive Development at Instituto Argentino de Empresas, the Strategic Management in Banking Program at INSEAD and the Customer Centric Organitatios at Kellogg School of Management. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1995. He is also a director of Sudamericana Holding and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales and Naranja.

Pablo Maria Leon: Mr. Leon obtained a degree in finance from the Universidad de Palermo and two executive development programs at Instituto Argentino de Empresas and IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1987. He is also the chairman of Galicia Securities and Inviu and vicepresident of MAE. Mr. Leon is also manager of IGAM.

Diego Rivas: please see “— Management of Grupo Financiero Galicia”

Maria Marcela Fernie: Ms. Fernie obtained a degree in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 2011. She is a director of COELSA and an alternate director of Tarjetas Regionales and Naranja.

Rafael Pablo Bergés: Mr. Bergés obtained a degree in industrial engineering from Universidad de Buenos Aires. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since August 2010. Prior to such time, he worked at Techint and at a several multinational companies in managerial positions. From 1998 to 2009, he was vice president of the Human Resources Division of Grupo Telefónica.

Bruno Folino: please see “— Management of Grupo Financiero Galicia”

Claudio Scarso: Mr. Scarso obtained a degree in systems engineering from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. He has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1995.

Teresa del Carmen Piraino: Ms. Piraino obtained a degree in accounting from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa. She completed a post-graduate degree in Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Crime Prevention from the Universidad de Buenos Aires. She has been associated with Banco Galicia since 1992.

B. Compensation

Compensation of Our Directors

Compensation for the members of the Board of Directors is considered by the shareholders at the shareholders’ meeting once the fiscal year has ended. Directors are paid an annual fee based on the functions they

carry out and they may receive partial advance payments during the year. At the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2020 the compensation for the Board of Directors was set at Ps.85,824,936 (nominal value) for the year ended December 31, 2019. For fiscal year 2020, a proposal was made to the next shareholders meeting to be held on April 27, 2021 to set compensations for the Board of Directors for the amount of Ps.185,437,620 (nominal value).

For a description of the amounts to be paid to the board of directors of Banco Galicia, see “– Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Directors and Officers” below.

We do not maintain a stock-option, profit-sharing or pension plan for the benefit of our directors.

We do not have a policy establishing any termination benefits for our directors.

Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Directors

Banco Galicia’s board of directors establishes the policy for compensation of Banco Galicia’s personnel. Banco Galicia’s managers receive a fixed compensation. Six directors are not employees of Banco Galicia. These non-employee directors receive a fixed compensation, provided that payments do not exceed the standard levels of similar entities in the Argentine financial market, a provision that is applicable to managers as well. Banco Galicia does not maintain stock-option plans or pension plans or any other retirement plans for the benefit of its directors. Banco Galicia does not have a policy establishing any termination benefits for its directors.

At the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 28, 2020, the compensation for the directors of Banco Galicia was set for a total amount of Ps.32,643,328 (nominal value) for the year ended December 31, 2019. For fiscal year 2020, a proposal was presented to the next shareholders meeting to be held on April 27, 2021 to set compensations for the Board of Directors for the amount of Ps.41,972,024.52 (nominal value).

Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Officers

Banco Galicia’s board of directors establishes the compensation policy for Banco Galicia’s personnel. Banco Galicia’s officers receive a fixed compensation. The officers’ compensation regime includes the possibility of acquiring a retirement insurance policy. Banco Galicia does not maintain stock-option plans or pension plans or any other retirement plans for the benefit of its officers.

C. Nasdaq Corporate Governance Standards

Pursuant to Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5615(a) (3), a foreign private issuer may follow home country corporate governance practices in lieu of the requirements of the Rule 5600 Series, provided that the foreign private issuer complies with certain sections of the Rule 5000 Series, discloses each requirement that it does not follow and

describes the home relevant country practice followed in lieu of such requirement. The requirements of the Rule 5000 Series and the Argentine corporate governance practice that we follow in lieu thereof are described below:

(i)

Rule 5250 (d) – Distribution of Annual and Interim Reports. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5250 (d), we follow Argentine law, which requires that companies make public a Spanish language annual report, including annual audited consolidated financial statements, by filing such annual report with the CNV and the BASE, within 70 calendar days of the end of the company’s fiscal year. Interim reports must be filed with the CNV and the BASE within 42 calendar days of the end of each fiscal quarter. The BASE publishes the annual reports and interim reports in the BASE bulletin and makes the bulletin available for inspection at its offices. In addition, our shareholders can receive copies of our annual reports and any interim reports upon such shareholders’ request. English language translations of our annual reports and interim reports are furnished to the SEC. We also post the English language translation of our annual reports and quarterly press releases on our website. Furthermore, under the terms of the Second Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated as of June 22, 2000, among us, The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, and owners of ADSs issued thereunder, we are required to furnish The Bank of New York Mellon with, among other things, English language translations of our annual reports and each of our quarterly press releases. Annual reports and quarterly press releases are available for inspection by ADRs holders at the offices of The Bank of New York Mellon located at 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York. Finally, Argentine law requires that 20 calendar days before the date of a shareholders’ meeting, the board of directors must provide to the shareholders, at the company’s executive office or through electronic means, all information relevant to the shareholders’ meeting, including copies of any documents to be considered by the shareholders (which includes the annual report), as well as proposals of the company’s board of directors.

(ii)

Rule 5605 (b) (2) – Executive Sessions of Independent Directors. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (b) (2), we follow Argentine law which does not require independent directors to hold regularly scheduled meetings at which only such independent directors are present (i.e., executive sessions). Our Board of Directors as a whole is responsible for monitoring our affairs. In addition, under Argentine law, the board of directors may approve the delegation of specific responsibilities to designated directors or non-director managers of the company. Also, it is mandatory for public companies to form a supervisory committee (composed of syndics), which is responsible for monitoring the legality of the company’s actions under Argentine law and the conformity thereof with its bylaws.

(iii)

Rule 5605 (d) – Compensation of Officers. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (d), we follow Argentine law, which does not require companies to form a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors. It also is not required under Argentine law that the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and all other executive officers be determined by either a majority of the independent directors or a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors. Under Argentine law, the board of directors is the corporate body responsible for determining the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and all other executive officers, so long as they are not directors. In addition, under Argentine law, the audit committee shall give its opinion about the reasonableness of management’s proposals on fees and option plans for directors or managers of the company. Finally, because we are a “controlled company” as defined in Rule 5615 (c) (1), we are relying on the exemption provided thereby for purposes of complying with Rule 5615 (c) (2). For further information, please see “Compensation” – “Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Officers” above.

(iv)

Rule 5605 (e) (1) – Nomination of Directors. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (e) (1), we follow Argentine law which requires that directors be nominated directly by the shareholders at the shareholders’ meeting onceand that they be selected and recommended by the fiscal year has ended. Directors are paid an annual fee based onshareholders themselves. Under Argentine law, it is the functions they carry out and they may receive partial advance payments during the year. Atresponsibility of the ordinary shareholders’ meeting heldto appoint and remove directors and to set their compensation. However, the Company, based on April 25, 2019 the compensation forbest practices in corporate governance has created a Nomination and Compensation Committee, chaired by an independent Director and composed by 5 members of the Board of Directors. Said Committee aims to assist the Board of Directors was set at Ps.57,859,561to prepare a proposal to nominate candidates to fill its positions, to prepare and design a succession plan and to determine its compensation levels. In addition, because we are a “controlled company” as defined in Rule 5615 (c) (1), we are relying on the exemption provided thereby for the year ended December 31, 2018.purposes of complying with Rule 5615 (c) (2). For a descriptionfurther information, please see “Our Board of the amounts to be paid to the board of directors of Banco Galicia, see “– Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Directors and Officers” below.Directors” above.

(v)

We do not maintain a stock-option, profit-sharing or pension plan for the benefit of our directors.

We do not have a policy establishing any termination benefits for our directors.


Compensation of Banco Galicia’s Directors and Officers

Banco Galicia’s board of directors establishes the policy for compensation of Banco Galicia’s personnel. Banco Galicia’s managers receive a fixed compensation. Seven directors are not employees of Banco Galicia. These non-employee directors, receive a fixed compensation, provided that payments do not exceed the standard levels of similar entities in the Argentine financial market, a provision that is applicable to managers as well. The officers’ compensation regime includes the possibility of acquiring a retirement insurance policy. Banco Galicia does not maintain stock-option plans or pension plans or any other retirement plans for the benefit of its directors and managers. Banco Galicia does not have a policy establishing any termination benefits for its directors.

At the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019, the compensation for the directors of Banco Galicia was set for a total amount of Ps.25.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Nasdaq Corporate Governance Standards

Pursuant to Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5615(a) (3), a foreign private issuer may follow home country corporate governance practices in5605 (c) (1) – Audit Committee Charter. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (c) (1), we follow Argentine law, which requires that audit committees have a charter but does not require that companies certify as to the Rule 5600 Series, provided that the foreign private issuer complies with certain sectionsadoption of the charter nor does it require an annual review and assessment thereof. Argentine law instead requires that companies prepare an annual report describing its activities and propose a plan or course of action with respect to those matters, which are the responsibility of the company’s audit committee. Such plan or course of action could, at the discretion of our audit committee, include a review and assessment of the audit committee charter.

(vi)

Rule 5000 Series, discloses each requirement that it5605 (c) (2) – Audit Committee Composition. Argentine law does not followrequire, and describesit is equally not customary business practice in Argentina, that companies have an audit committee comprised solely of independent directors. Argentine law instead requires that companies establish an audit committee with at least three members comprised of a majority of independent directors as defined by Argentine law. The Audit Committee is comprised of three Directors, two of them independent pursuant to the home relevant country practice followeddefinition of independence in lieu of such requirement. The requirements of the Rule 5000 Series10 A-3 (b) (1) and the Argentine corporate governance practice thatlaw, one of which the Board of Directors determined to be a financial expert. In addition, we follow in lieu thereofhave a supervisory committee (“comisión fiscalizadora”) composed of three syndics, who are described below:responsible for monitoring the legality, under Argentine law, of the actions of our Board of Directors and the conformity of such actions with our bylaws. For further information about the Audit Committee, please see “Our Audit Committee” above.

(i)

Rule 5250 (d) – Distribution of Annual and Interim Reports. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5250 (d), we follow Argentine law, which requires that companies make public a Spanish language annual report, including annual audited consolidated financial statements, by filing such annual report with the CNV and the BASE, within 70 calendar days of the end of the company’s fiscal year. Interim reports must be filed with the CNV and the BASE within 42 calendar days of the end of each fiscal quarter. The BASE publishes the annual reports and interim reports in the BASE bulletin and makes the bulletin available for inspection at its offices. In addition, our shareholders can receive copies of our annual reports and any interim reports upon such shareholders’ request. English language translations of our annual reports and interim reports are furnished to the SEC. We also post the English language translation of our annual reports and quarterly press releases on our website. Furthermore, under the terms of the Second Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated as of June 22, 2000, among us, The Bank of New York, as depositary, and owners of ADSs issued thereunder, we are required to furnish The Bank of New York with, among other things, English language translations of our annual reports and each of our quarterly press releases. Annual reports and quarterly press releases are available for inspection by ADRs holders at the offices of The Bank of New York located at 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York. Finally, Argentine law requires that 20 calendar days before the date of a shareholders’ meeting, the board of directors must provide to the shareholders, at the company’s executive office or through electronic means, all information relevant to the shareholders’ meeting, including copies of any documents to be considered by the shareholders (which includes the annual report), as well as proposals of the company’s board of directors.

(ii)

Rule 5605 (b) (2) – Executive Sessions of Independent Directors. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (b) (2), we follow Argentine law which does not require independent directors to hold regularly scheduled meetings at which only such independent directors are present (i.e., executive sessions). Our Board of Directors as a whole is responsible for monitoring our affairs. In addition, under Argentine law, the board of directors may approve the delegation of specific responsibilities to designated directors or non-director managers of the company. Also, it is mandatory for public companies to form a supervisory committee (composed of syndics), which is responsible for monitoring the legality of the company’s actions under Argentine law and the conformity thereof with its bylaws.

(iii)

Rule 5605 (d) – Compensation of Officers. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (d), we follow Argentine law, which does not require companies to form a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors. It also is not required under Argentine law that the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and all other executive officers be determined by either a majority of the independent directors or a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors. Under Argentine law, the board of directors is the corporate body responsible for determining the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and


all other executive officers, so long as they are not directors. In addition, under Argentine law, the audit committee shall give its opinion about the reasonableness of management’s proposals on fees and option plans for directors or managers of the company. Finally, because we are a “controlled company” as defined in Rule 5615 (c) (1), we are relying on the exemption provided thereby for purposes of complying with Rule 5615 (c) (2).

(iv)

Rule 5605 (e) (1) – Nomination of Directors. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (e) (1), we follow Argentine law which requires that directors be nominated directly by the shareholders at the shareholders’ meeting and that they be selected and recommended by the shareholders themselves. Under Argentine law, it is the responsibility of the ordinary shareholders’ meeting to appoint and remove directors and to set their compensation. In addition, because we are a “controlled company” as defined in Rule 5615 (c) (1), we are relying on the exemption provided thereby for purposes of complying with Rule 5615 (c) (2).

(v)

Rule 5605 (c) (1) – Audit Committee Charter. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5605 (c) (1), we follow Argentine law, which requires that audit committees have a charter but does not require that companies certify as to the adoption of the charter nor does it require an annual review and assessment thereof. Argentine law instead requires that companies prepare a proposed plan or course of action with respect to those matters, which are the responsibility of the company’s audit committee. Such plan or course of action could, at the discretion of our audit committee, include a review and assessment of the audit committee charter.

(vi)

Rule 5605 (c) (2) – Audit Committee Composition. Argentine law does not require, and it is equally not customary business practice in Argentina, that companies have an audit committee comprised solely of independent directors. Argentine law instead requires that companies establish an audit committee with at least three members comprised of a majority of independent directors as defined by Argentine law. Since fiscal year 2017, the Audit Committee is comprised of three Directors, two of them independent pursuant to the definition of independence in Rule 10 A-3 (b) (1) and the Argentine law, one of which the Board of Directors determined to be a financial expert. In addition, we have a supervisory committee (“comisión fiscalizadora”) composed of three syndics, who are responsible for monitoring the legality, under Argentine law, of the actions of our Board of Directors and the conformity of such actions with our bylaws.

(vii)

Rule 5620 (c) – Quorum. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5620 (c), we follow Argentine law and our bylaws, which distinguish between ordinary meetings and extraordinary meetings and require, in connection with ordinary meetings, that a quorum consist of a majority of stock entitled to vote. If no quorum is present at the first meeting, a second meeting may be called at which the shareholders present, whatever their number, constitute a quorum and resolutions may be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. Argentine law and our bylaws require, in connection with extraordinary meetings, that a quorum consist of 60% of the stock entitled to vote. However, if such quorum is not present at the first meeting, our bylaws provide that a second meeting may be called which may be held with the number of shareholders present. In both ordinary and extraordinary meetings, decisions are adopted by an absolute majority of votes present at the meeting, except for certain fundamental matters (such as mergers and spin-offs (when we are not the surviving entity and the surviving entity is not listed on any stock exchange), anticipated liquidation, a change in our domicile to outside of Argentina, total or partial recapitalization of our statutory capital following a loss, any transformation in our corporate legal form or a substantial change in our corporate purpose) which require an approval by vote of the majority of all the stock entitled to vote (all stock being entitled to only one vote).

(viii)

Rule 5620 (b) – Solicitation of Proxies. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5620 (b), we follow Argentine law which requires that notices of shareholders’ meetings be published, for five consecutive days, in the Official Gazette and in a widely circulated newspaper in Argentina no earlier than 45 calendar days prior to the meeting and at least 20 calendar days prior to such meeting. In order to attend a meeting and be listed on the meeting registry, shareholders are required to submit evidence of their book-entry share account held at Caja de Valores S.A. up to three business days prior to the scheduled meeting date. If entitled to attend the meeting, a shareholder may be represented by proxy (properly executed and delivered with a certified signature) granted to any other person, with the exception of a director, syndic, member of the surveillance committee (“consejo de vigilancia”), manager or employee of the issuer, which are prohibited by Argentine law from acting as proxies. In addition, our ADRs holders receive, prior to the shareholders’ meeting, a notice listing the matters on the agenda, a copy of the annual report and a voting card.


(ix)

Rule 5630 (a) – Conflicts of Interest. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5630 (a), we follow Argentine law which requires that related party transactions be approved by the audit committee when the transaction exceeds 1% of the corporation’s net worth, measured pursuant to the last audited balance sheet. Directors can contract with the corporation only on terms consistent with prevailing market terms. If the contract is not in accordance with prevailing market terms, such transaction must be pre-approved by the board of directors (excluding the interested director). In addition, under Argentine law, a shareholder is required to abstain from voting on a business transaction in which its interests may be in conflict with the interests of the company. In the event such shareholder votes on such business transaction and such business transaction would not have been approved without such shareholders’ vote, such shareholder may be liable to the company for damages and the resolution may be declared void.

Other than as noted above, we are in full compliance with all other applicable Nasdaq corporate governance standards.

Employees

The following table shows the composition of our staff:

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

 

 

5

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

6

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

 

6,294

 

 

 

6,214

 

 

 

5,799

 

Branches

 

 

3,231

 

 

 

3,185

 

 

 

2,790

 

Head Office

 

 

3,063

 

 

 

3,029

 

 

 

3,009

 

Regional Credit Card Companies

 

 

3,488

 

 

 

3,896

 

 

 

4,571

 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos

 

 

22

 

 

 

19

 

 

 

16

 

Sudamericana Consolidated

 

 

381

 

 

 

375

 

 

 

374

 

Other Subsidiaries

 

 

19

 

 

 

24

 

 

 

42

 

Total

 

 

10,209

 

 

 

10,532

 

 

 

10,808

 

Within the current legal framework, membership in an employee union is voluntary and there is only one union of bank employees with national representation. As of December 31, 2018, approximately 38% of Banco Galicia’s employees were affiliated with the national bank employee union. As of December 31, 2018, approximately 90% of the Regional Credit Card Companies’ work force was party to the merchant union’s Collective Bargaining Agreement No.130/75 applicable to trade employees and 6% of which were members of a labor union.

In general, during the first four months of 2018, the bank employees union and the national commerce employees union commenced negotiations on their respective collective labor agreements to establish new minimum wages. As a result of such negotiations, the minimum wage was increased for these positions. In 2018, due to the significant increases in the inflation index, the increases in the banking agreement were carried out in the months of January, May, July, August, September, October, November and December. In 2018, the Argentine union that represents employees in the banking sector declared general strikes. These strikes were not specific to any bank, but affected all banks in Argentina. Certain of the Bank’s employees who are members of the union participated in the strike; however, the Bank was able to continue its operations during such time as not all employees are members of the union. While employees of Banco Galicia have participated in general strikes against the Argentine banking sector, Banco Galicia has not experienced a targeted strike by its employees since 1973 and the Regional Credit Card Companies have never experienced a targeted employee strike. We believe that our relationship with our employees is stable and positive.

We have a human resources policy that aims at providing our employees possibilities for growth and personal and socio-economic achievement. We will continue our current policy of monitoring both wage levels and labor conditions in the financial industry in order to be competitive. Our employees receive fixed compensation and may receive variable compensation according to their level of achievement. We do not maintain any profit-sharing programs for our employees.


In a survey conducted in 2018 by Great Place to Work®, Banco Galicia ranked first for the second consecutive year among the best companies to work in Argentina with more than 1,000 employees, while Tarjeta Naranja ranked second for the second consecutive year among the best companies to work in Argentina with more than 1,000 employees.

The Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires (the “Fundación”) is an Argentine non-profit organization that provides various services to Banco Galicia employees. The various activities of the Fundación include, among others, purchasing school materials for the children of Banco Galicia’s employees and making donations to hospitals and other charitable causes, including cultural events. The Fundación is managed by a Council, certain members and alternate members of which are members of our Board of Directors and supervisory committee. Members and alternate members of the Council do not receive remuneration for their services as trustees.

Share Ownership

For information on the share ownership of our directors and executive officers as of December 31, 2018, see Item 7. “Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—A. Major Shareholders”.

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

A. Major Shareholders

As of March 31, 2019, our capital structure was made up of class A shares, each of which is entitled to five votes and class B shares, each of which is entitled to one vote. As of March 31, 2019, we had 1,426,764,597 shares outstanding composed of 281,221,650 class A shares and 1,145,542,947 class B shares.

Our controlling shareholders are members of the Escasany, Ayerza and Braun families and the Fundación. As of March 31, 2019, the controlling shareholders owned 100% of our class A shares through EBA Holding (representing 19.7% of our total outstanding shares) and 9.8% of our class B shares (or 7.8% of our total outstanding shares), therefore directly and indirectly owning 27.5% of our shares and 59.5% of total votes.

Based on information that is available to us, the table below sets forth, as of March 31, 2019, the number of our class A and class B shares held by holders of more than 5% of each class of shares, the percentage of each class of shares held by such holder, and the percentage of votes that each class of shares represent as a percentage of our total possible votes.

Class A Shares

Name

 

Class A Shares

 

 

% of Class A Shares

 

% of Total Votes

EBA Holding S.A.

 

 

281,221,650

 

 

100

 

55.1

Class B Shares

Name

 

Class A Shares

 

 

% of Class A Shares

 

% of Total Votes

The Bank of New York Mellon (1)

 

 

585,949,770

 

 

51.1

 

22.9

ANSES

 

 

264,221,559

 

 

23.1

 

10.4

EBA Holding Shareholders (2)

 

 

111,657,870

 

 

9.8

 

4.4

(1)

Pursuant to the requirements of Argentine law, all class B shares represented by ADSs are owned of record by The Bank of New York, as Depositary. The address for the Bank of New York is 101 Barclay Street, New York 10286, and the country of organization is the United States.

(2)

No member holds more than 2.0% of the capital stock. Such holding includes 24,556,360 shares in the form of ADSs.


Based on information that is available to us, the table below sets forth, as of March 31, 2018, the shareholders that either directly or indirectly have more than 5% of our votes or shares.

Name

 

Shares

 

 

Class

 

% of Class A Shares

 

% of Total Votes

The Bank of New York Mellon

 

 

585,949,770

 

 

B

 

41.1

 

22.9

EBA Holding S.A.

 

 

281,221,650

 

 

A

 

19.7

 

55.1

ANSES.

 

 

264,221,559

 

 

B

 

18.5

 

10.4

EBA Holding Shareholders.

 

 

111,657,870

 

 

B

 

7.8

 

4.4

Members of the three controlling families have owned the majority of the issued share capital of Banco Galicia since 1959. Members of the Escasany family have been on the board of directors of Banco Galicia since 1923. The Ayerza and Braun families have been represented on Banco Galicia’s board of directors since 1943 and 1947, respectively. Currently, there are five members of these families on our Board of Directors.

On September 13, 1999, the controlling shareholders of Banco Galicia formed EBA Holding S.A., an Argentine corporation, which is 100% owned by our controlling shareholders. EBA Holding holds 100% of our class A shares.

Currently, EBA Holding only has class A shares outstanding. EBA Holding’s bylaws provide for certain restrictions on the sale or transfer of its class A shares. While the class A shares of EBA Holding may be transferred to any other class A shareholder of EBA Holding, any transfer of such class A shares to third parties would automatically result in the conversion of the sold shares into class B shares of EBA Holding having one vote per share. In addition, EBA Holding’s bylaws contain rights of first refusal, buy-sell provisions and tag-along rights.

As of March 31, 2019, we had 122 identified United States record shareholders (not considering The Bank of New York), of which 20 held our class B shares and 102 held our ADSs. Such United States holders, in the aggregate, held approximately 259 million of our class B shares, representing approximately 18.2% of our total outstanding capital stock as of such date.

B. Related Party Transactions

Grupo Financiero Galicia and its non-banking subsidiaries are not a party to any transactions with, and have not made any loans to any (i) enterprises that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, control or are controlled by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, (ii) associates (i.e., an unconsolidated enterprise in which Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries has a significant influence or which has significant influence over Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries), (iii) individuals owning, directly or indirectly, an interest in the voting power of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries that gives them significant influence over Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable, and close members of any such individual’s family (i.e., those family members that may be expected to influence, or be influenced by, that person in their dealings with Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable), (iv) key management personnel (i.e., persons that have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, including directors and senior management of companies and close members of such individual’s family) or (v) enterprises in which a substantial interest is owned, directly or indirectly, by any person described in (iii) or (iv) over which such a person is able to exercise significant influence nor are there any proposed transactions with such persons. For purposes of this paragraph, this includes enterprises owned by directors or major shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries that have a member of key management in common with Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable. In addition, “significant influence” means the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the enterprise but means less than control. Shareholders beneficially owning a 10% interest in the voting power of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries are presumed to have a significant influence on Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable.

Some of our directors and the directors of Banco Galicia have been involved in certain credit transactions with Banco Galicia as permitted by Argentine law. The Corporations Law and the Argentine Central Bank’s


regulations allow directors of a limited liability company to enter into a transaction with such company if such transaction follows prevailing market conditions. Additionally, a bank’s total financial exposure to related individuals or legal entities is subject to the regulations of the Argentine Central Bank. Such regulations set limits on the amount of financial exposure that can be extended by a bank to affiliates based on, among other things, a percentage of a bank’s RPC. See Item 4. “Information on the CompanyArgentine Banking RegulationLending Limits”.

Banco Galicia is required by the Argentine Central Bank to present to its board of directors, on a monthly basis, the outstanding amounts of financial assistance granted to directors, controlling shareholders, officers and other related entities, which are transcribed in the minute books of the board of directors of Banco Galicia. The Argentine Central Bank establishes that the financial assistance to directors, controlling shareholders, officers and other related entities must be granted on an equal basis with respect to rates, tenor and guarantees as loans granted to the general public.

In this section “total financial exposure” comprises equity interests and financial assistance (all credit related items such as loans, holdings of corporate debt securities without quotation, guarantees granted and unused balances of loans granted, among others), as this term is defined in Item 4. “Information on the CompanyArgentine Banking RegulationLending Limits”.

“Related parties” refers mainly to our directors and the directors of Banco Galicia, our senior officers and senior officers of Banco Galicia, our syndics and Banco Galicia’s syndics, our controlling shareholders as well as all individuals who are related to them by a family relationship and any entities directly or indirectly affiliated with any of these parties, not required to be consolidated.

The following table presents the aggregate amounts of total financial exposure of Banco Galicia to related parties, the number of recipients, the average amounts and the single largest exposures as of the end of the two fiscal years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018, and as of March 31, 2018, the last date for which information is available.

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December  31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except as noted)

 

Aggregate Total Financial Exposure

 

 

692

 

 

 

956

 

 

 

1,000

 

Number of Recipient Related Parties

 

 

318

 

 

 

329

 

 

 

364

 

Individuals

 

 

260

 

 

 

269

 

 

 

299

 

Companies

 

 

58

 

 

 

60

 

 

 

65

 

Average Total Financial Exposure

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

Single Largest Exposure

 

 

116

 

 

 

363

 

 

 

288

 

The financial assistance granted to our directors, officers and related parties by Banco Galicia was granted in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other non-related parties, and did not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features.

In June 2011, Banco Galicia entered into an agreement with Galicia Seguros, a company indirectly controlled by Grupo Financiero Galicia, pursuant to which the Bank can offer insurance products on behalf of Galicia Seguros. In addition, they entered into an agreement for a one-year period pursuant to which Galicia Seguros insures the Bank for the balances of certain loans in the case of death of its clients. On July 31, 2014, Banco Galicia renewed both agreements with Galicia Seguros, for an additional year, with automatic deferral. Such agreements were considered to be “related party transactions” pursuant to Section 72 of the Capital Markets Law.

On March 11, 2015, Banco Galicia’s board of directors granted a checking account overdraft in favor of Grupo Financiero Galicia for up to Ps.230 million with a maturity date of June 30, 2016 (equivalent to Ps.659 million as of December 2018), which was increased on April 5, 2016 to Ps.300 million with a maturity date of June 30, 2017 (equivalent to Ps.625 million as of December 2018).


On March 14, 2017, Banco Galicia’s board of directors decided to grant a checking account overdraft in favor of Grupo Financiero Galicia for up to Ps.500 million with a maturity date of June 30, 2018 (equivalent to Ps.868 million as of December 2018), which was increased in September 2017 to Ps.854 million (equivalent to Ps.1.338 million as December 2018).

Item 8. Financial Information

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Consolidated Financial Statements

We have elected to provide the financial information set forth in Item 18 of this annual report.

Legal Proceedings

We are a party to the following legal proceedings:

Banco Galicia

In response to certain pending legal proceedings, Banco Galicia has recorded reserves to cover (i) various types of claims filed by customers against it (e.g., claims for thefts from safe deposit boxes, collections of checks that had been fraudulently altered, discrepancies related to deposit and payment services rendered to Banco Galicia’s customers, etc.) and (ii) estimated amounts payable under labor-related lawsuits filed against Banco Galicia by former employees.

With regard to the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires’claims on account of other items, Banco Galicia cited to the System for the Settlement of Tax Liabilities in Arrears (Law No.3,461 and related regulations), which contemplated the total relief of interest and fines.

In connection with the assessments made by the tax collection authorities from the Province of Buenos Aires, under the framework of some of the processes under discussion at the Provincial Tax Court, at this stage of proceedings the decision issued was favorable with regard to the non taxability thereof. Therefore, Banco Galicia adhered to the System for the Regularization of Tax Debts (Regulatory Decision No.12 and related decisions), which contemplated discounts on the amounts not related to the Compensatory Bond. The Bank’s adherence to such system was communicated within the framework of the respective cases before the corresponding judicial authorities. In turn, the authorities from the Province of Buenos Aires objected to the judgment rendered by the Provincial Tax Court with regard to the Compensatory Bond, and requested the Court of Appeals in Administrative Matters of La Plata to set such decision aside. Banco Galicia entered an appearance and filed a motion for lack of jurisdiction, since it believes only the Argentine Supreme Court of Justice has jurisdiction to issue a decision on such matter. On April 15, 2014, the aforementioned court sustained the motion for lack of jurisdiction and ordered the proceedings to be filed. The authorities from the Province of Buenos Aires filed an appeal before the Supreme Court of Justice of the Province of Buenos Aires, which has not issued a decision to date.

Furthermore, Banco Galicia has been expressing its disagreement regarding claims made by various jurisdictions at the corresponding administrative and/or legal proceedings.These proceedings and their possible effects are constantly being monitored by the Bank’s management. Even though Banco Galicia believes it has complied with its tax liabilities in full pursuant to current regulations, adequate reserves in respect of such proceedings have been allocated.

Consumer Protection Associations, on behalf of consumers, have filed claims against Banco Galicia in connection with the collection of certain financial charges. The Bank does not believe that the resolution of these controversies will have a significant impact on its financial condition.


Regional Credit Card Companies

The AFIP, Provincial Revenue Boards and Municipalities are in the process of conducting audits and assessments, in differing stages of completion, on the companies controlled by Tarjetas Regionales. Said agencies have served notices and made claims regarding taxes applicable to Tarjetas Regionales’s subsidiaries. Such companies are taking the corresponding administrative and legal steps in order to solve such issues. The original amount claimed for taxes totaled approximately Ps.38 million.

As of December 1, 2017, Tarjeta Naranja had filed a reimbursement claim before the AFIP regarding its income tax for the 2014-2016 fiscal years in an amount equal to Ps.856,612. The claim was based on the failure to apply the inflation adjustment standards set forth in Section VI of the Income Tax Law, which led to a substantial difference in the taxable income exceeding the reasonable limits of taxation. The same claim was presented on behalf of Tarjetas Cuyanas as of May 17, 2018, for 2014-2016, amounting Ps.145,178. Both claims remain pending before the AFIP.

Based on the opinion of tax advisors, each of Tarjeta Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas believes that such claims are unfounded and that the taxes related to such claims have been correctly calculated in accordance with the tax regulations then in effect and Argentine case law.


Dividend Policy and Dividends

Dividend Policy

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s policy for the distribution of dividends envisages, among other factors, the obligatory nature of establishing a legal reserve, financial condition and indebtedness, the business requirements of affiliated companies and, mainly, that the profits recorded in the financial statements are, to a great extent, income from holdings and not realized and liquid profits, a requirement of Section 68 of the Corporations Law so that it is possible to distribute them as dividends. The proposal to distribute dividends arising from such analysis has to be approved at the shareholders’ meeting that discusses the Financial Statements corresponding to each fiscal year.

We may only declare and pay dividends out of our retained earnings representing the profit realized on our operations and investments. The Corporations Law and our bylaws state that no profits may be distributed until prior losses are covered. Dividends paid on our class A shares and class B shares will equal one another on a per share basis. As required by the Corporations Law, 5% of our net income is allocated to a legal reserve until the reserve equals 20% of our outstanding capital. Dividends may not be paid if the legal reserve has been impaired until it is fully restored. The legal reserve is not available for distribution to shareholders.

Our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders principally depends on (i) our net income, (ii) cash availability, (iii) indebtedness, and (iv) applicable legal requirements.

Holders of our ADSs will be entitled to receive any dividends payable in respect of our underlying class B shares. We will pay cash dividends to the ADSs depositary in Pesos, although we reserve the right to pay cash dividends in any other currency, including Dollars. The ADSs deposit agreement provides that the depositary will convert cash dividends received by the ADSs depositary in Pesos to Dollars and, after deduction or upon payment of fees and expenses of the ADSs depositary and deduction of other amounts permitted to be deducted from such cash payments in accordance with the ADSs deposit agreement (such as for unpaid taxes by the ADSs holders in connection with personal asset taxes or otherwise), will make payment to holders of our ADSs in Dollars.

Dividends

Grupo Financiero Galicia

As a holding company, our principal source of cash from which to pay dividends on our shares is dividends or other intercompany transfers from our subsidiaries, primarily Banco Galicia. Due to dividend restrictions contained in Banco Galicia’s loan agreements in connection with Banco Galicia’s foreign debt restructuring that were lifted when such debt was fully paid during fiscal year 2016 and in some Argentine Central Bank regulations, our ability to distribute cash dividends to our shareholders has been materially and adversely affected since late 2001 until 2010, when Banco Galicia obtained the authorization to distribute its profits.

After the end of fiscal year 2011, the Argentine Central Bank modified its regulations governing the minimum capital requirements and dividend distribution and, consequently, Banco Galicia was not able to pay dividends. However, for fiscal year 2018 the Bank has met the aforementioned regulations and approved the distribution of cash dividends in an amount equal to Ps.1,500 million at its April 2019 shareholders’ meeting. During 2017, Grupo Financiero Galicia paid cash dividends for Ps.240 million for fiscal year 2016, representing Ps.0.1846 per share, equivalent to Ps.406 million as of December 2018. During 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia paid cash dividends for fiscal year 2017 in the amount of Ps.1,200 million, representing Ps.0.8411 per share, equivalent to Ps.1,617 million as of December 2018.

Due to the fact that most of the profits in fiscal year 2018 correspond to holdings income that does not meet the requirements for distribution set forth in Section 68 of the Corporations’ Law and given Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition, a proposal was made by the Board of Directors to pay cash dividends in an amount equal to Ps.2,000 million (which represents 140.1772%) with regard to 1,426,764,597 class A and B ordinary shares with a face value of Ps.1 each. The shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019 approved such proposal.


Pursuant Act No.27,260, Grupo Financiero Galicia neither reimbursed nor withheld any amount for tax purposes on the dividends paid for fiscal year 2017.

Pursuant Act No.27,430 Grupo Financiero Galicia may withhold some amount for tax purposes on the dividends to be paid for fiscal year 2018.

For more information on requirements for dividend distribution, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”─B.”Business Overview”—“Argentine Banking Regulation”—“Profit Distribution”.

Banco Galicia

During the ordinary and extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019, the shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend, in the amount of Ps.1,500 million, corresponding to the 2018 fiscal year.

Sudamericana Holding

On September 14, 2018, Sudamericana held an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.440 million.

B. Significant Changes

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.

Within the framework of the divestment commitment undertaken by Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. and its shareholders to the Argentine Commission of Competence Defense, on January 21, 2019, Banco Galicia, along with the other shareholders, accepted an offer made by AI Zenith (Netherlands) B.V. to buy 3,182,444 book-entry common shares, with face value of $1 each and one vote per share, representing 7.7007% of such entity's capital stock.

The estimated total price of the transaction amounted to US$106,258, of which Banco Galicia received US$63,073 on February 1, 2019. The balance (US$43,185) will be paid over the next five years as follows: (i) 30% will be payable in Pesos at the applicable UVA rate, plus an annual nominal 15% rate, and (ii) 70% will be payable in Dollars at an annual nominal 10% rate.

Banco Galicia continues to hold 3,057,642 shares in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A., which represents 7.3988% of its capital stock.

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

Shares and ADSs

Our class B shares are listed on the BYMA, MAE and the Córdoba Stock Exchange under the symbol “GGAL”. Our class B shares have started listing on MAE since October 28, 2015. Our ADSs, each representing ten class B shares, are listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market, under the symbol “GGAL”. Our ADSs have been listed on Nasdaq Capital Market since August 2002. Previously, our ADSs had been listed on the Nasdaq National Market since July 24, 2000.

Argentine Securities Market

The principal and oldest exchange for the Argentine securities market is the BYMA. The BYMA started operating in 1854 and handles the largest proportion of all equity trading in Argentina. Securities listed on the BYMA include corporate equity and debt securities and government securities. Debt securities listed on the BYMA may also be listed on the MAE. The MERVAL, which is affiliated with the BYMA, was founded in 1929 and is the


largest stock market in Argentina. The MERVAL is a private entity, whose capital is integrated by shares admitted to public offer regime and was registered as a market by the CNV under N°16. Its capital is composed of 104 outstanding shares and there are 224 agents registered as members of the Merval market. We are member of the Merval through Galicia Valores, a subsidiary that owns one share. Additionally, the Bank, within the framework of the Capital Market Law, was authorized by the CNV to act as a settlement and clearing agent and trading agent-comprehensive, and was added as member of the MERVAL.

Trading on the BYMA is conducted mostly through the Sistema Integrado de Negociación Asistida por Computación (Integrated Computer Assisted Trading System, “SINAC”) although there are still some transactions carried out by continuous open outcry, the traditional auction system, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each business day of the year. SINAC is a computer trading system that permits trading in debt and equity securities and is accessed by brokers directly from workstations located at their offices. As a result of an agreement between the MERVAL and the MAE, equity securities are traded exclusively on the BYMA and corporate and government debt securities are traded on the MAE and the BYMA. Currently, all transactions relating to listed corporate and government debt securities can be effected on SINAC. In addition, a substantial over-the-counter market exists for private trading in listed debt securities and, prior to the agreement described above, equity securities. Such trades are reported on the MAE.

Although companies may list all of their capital stock on the BYMA, in most cases the controlling shareholders retain the majority of a company’s capital stock. This results in only a relatively small percentage of most companies’ stock being available for active trading by the public on the BYMA. Even though individuals have historically constituted the largest group of investors in Argentina’s equity markets, in recent years, banks and insurance companies have shown an interest in these markets. Argentine mutual funds, by contrast, continue to have very low participation in the market. Although 104 companies had equity securities listed on the BYMA as of December 31, 2018, the 5 most-traded companies on the exchange accounted for approximately 45.6% of total trading value during 2018, from a 38.6% recorded in 2017. Our shares were the first-most traded shares on the BYMA in 2018, with a 15.2% share of trading volume from an also first position of 10.44% recorded during 2017.

The Córdoba Stock Exchange is another important stock market in Argentina. Securities listed on the Córdoba Stock Exchange include both corporate equity and debt securities and government securities. Through an agreement with the BYMA, all the securities listed on the BYMA are authorized to be listed and subsequently traded on the Córdoba Stock Exchange. Thus, many transactions that originate on the Córdoba Stock Exchange relate to companies listed on the BYMA and such trades are subsequently settled in Buenos Aires.

The MAE is a self-regulated organization that is supervised by the CNV. MAE is mainly comprised by private banks, either composed by national or foreign capital, national banks, provincial banks, municipal Banks, cooperative Banks, financial companies, exchange companies and agents.

Market Regulations

The CNV oversees the Argentine securities markets and is responsible for authorizing public offerings of securities and supervising brokers, public companies and mutual funds. Argentine pension funds and insurance companies are regulated by separate Argentine government agencies, while financial institutions are regulated mainly by the Argentine Central Bank. The Argentine securities markets are regulated by the CNV, which was created by Law No.17,811, as amended.

In compliance with the provisions of Law No.20,643 and the Decrees No.659/74 and No.2220/80, most debt and equity securities traded on the exchanges and the MAE must, unless otherwise instructed by the shareholders, be deposited by the shareholders in Caja de Valores, which is a corporation owned by the BYMA. Caja de Valores is the central securities depository of Argentina, which provides depository facilities for securities and acts as a transfer and paying agent in connection therewith. It also handles settlement of securities transactions carried out on the BYMA and operates the computerized exchange information system.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Argentine regulations, there may be less publicly available information about Argentine companies than is regularly published by or about companies in the U.S. and other countries. However, the CNV has taken steps to strengthen disclosure and regulatory standards for the Argentine securities


market, including the issuance of regulations prohibiting insider trading and requiring insiders to report on their ownership of securities, with associated penalties for non-compliance.

In order to improve the regulation of the Argentine securities market, the CNV passed Decree No.677/01 (the “Decree for Transparency in Public Offerings”). This decree has come to be regarded as the financial consumer’s “bill of rights”. Its objective is to provide transparency and protection to participants in the capital markets. The decree was applied to individuals and entities that participate in the public offering of securities and to stock exchanges as well. Among its key provisions, the decree expanded the definition of “security”; regulated the treatment of negotiable securities; forced publicly listed companies to form audit committees composed of three or more members of the board of the directors (the majority of whom must be independent under CNV regulations); authorized market-stabilization transactions under certain circumstances, and provides for the increased regulation of insider trading, market manipulation securities fraud, going-private transactions and the acquisition of voting shares .

In order to offer securities to the public in Argentina, an issuer must meet certain requirements of the CNV regarding assets, operating history, management and other matters, and only securities for which an application for a public offering has been approved by the CNV may be listed on the corresponding stock exchange. This approval does not imply any kind of certification of assurance related to the merits of the quality of the securities, or the solvency of the issuer. Issuers of listed securities are required to file unaudited quarterly financial statements and audited annual financial statements, as well as various other periodic reports, with the CNV and the corresponding stock exchange.

Securities can currently be freely traded on the Argentine markets, however the Argentine government has periodically imposed certain restrictions regarding access by residents and non-residents to the local foreign exchange market and to transfers of foreign exchange abroad. See Item 4. “Information on the CompanyGovernment RegulationForeign Exchange Market”.

On October 2007, the CNV passed Resolution No. 516/07, which was amended in May 2012 by Resolution No. 606/12 to provide for the voluntary adoption of a corporate governance code. This resolution established the minimum requirements for corporate governance codes and recommends adoption of such code by public companies. This resolution also requires that their policy with respect to each recommendation be detailed in a template provided by such resolution in the annual report. The Resolution No. 516/07 was effective for fiscal years beginning on January 1, 2008 and after and, therefore, public companies, including us, have to report on their degree of fulfillment of each topic of such code.

On December 2012, the Argentine Congress passed the Capital Markets Law (Law No. 26,831), which became effective on January 2013, replacing Law No.17,811 and Decree No. 677/01, with the goal of regulating capital markets transactions subject to the supervision of the CNV and broadening the CNV’s powers. Additionally, under the Capital Markets Law, the self-regulation of markets was eliminated, and authorization, supervision, control and disciplinary and regulatory powers were conferred to the CNV. On September 9, 2013, the CNV published CNV Rules supplementing the Capital Markets Law. The CNV Rules have been in force since September 18, 2013.

On May 9, 2018, the Argentine Congress passed Law No. 27,440 (Ley de Financiamiento Productivo)with the goal of developing the Argentine domestic capital markets. The draft bill provides for the amendment and update of the Argentine Capital Markets Law, the Mutual Funds Law and the Argentine Negotiable Obligations Law, among others. Such Law No. 27,440 sets forth certain regulations that are intended to provide SMEs with better access to financial instruments and to create an electronic credit invoice for MSMEs that replace the receipts from sales and credit invoices. Also, Law No. 27,440 improves the regulatory framework by introducing the new products for SMEs, such as discounts for access to the financial market and the amendment of certain tax provisions, regulations relating to derivatives and the promotion of a financial inclusion program.


Item 10. Additional Information

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

Description of Our Bylaws

General

Set forth below is a brief description of certain provisions of our bylaws and Argentine law and regulations with regard to our capital stock. Your rights as a holder of our capital stock are subject to Argentine corporate law, which may differ from the corporate laws of other jurisdictions. This description is not purported to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to our bylaws, Argentine law and the rules of the BYMA, the Córdoba Stock Exchange as well as the CNV. A copy of our bylaws has been filed with and can be examined at the CNV in Buenos Aires and the SEC in Washington, D.C.

We were incorporated on September 14, 1999, as a stock corporation under the laws of Argentina and registered on September 30, 1999, with the IGJ, under corporate registration number 14,519 of Book 7, Volume of Stock Corporations. Our domicile is in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Under our bylaws, our duration is until June 30, 2100 and we are exclusively a financial and investment company (as stated in “Chapter 2. Purpose. Article 3.” of our bylaws). This duration may be extended by resolution taken at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting.

Our bylaws do not contain any provision governing the ownership threshold above which shareholder ownership must be disclosed.

Outstanding Capital Stock

Our total subscribed and paid-in share capital as of December 31, 2018, amounted to Ps.1,426,764,947, composed of class A shares and class B shares, each with a par value of Ps.1. The following table presents the number of our shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018, and the voting interest that the shares represent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

Shares

 

Number of Shares

 

 

% of Capital Stock

 

 

% of Voting Rights

 

Class A Shares

 

 

281,221,650

 

 

 

20

%

 

 

55.11

 

Class B Shares

 

 

1,145,542,947

 

 

 

80

%

 

 

44.89

 

Total

 

 

1,426,764,597

 

 

 

100

%

 

100

 

Registration and Transfer

The class B shares are book-entry common shares held through Caja de Valores. Caja de Valores maintains a stock registry for us and only those persons listed in such registry will be recognized as our shareholders. Caja de Valores periodically delivers to us a list of the shareholders as at a certain date.

The class B shares are transferable on the books of Caja de Valores. Caja de Valores records all transfers in our registry. Within ten days of any such transfer, Caja de Valores is required to confirm the registration of transfer with the transferor.

Voting Rights

At shareholders’ meetings, each class A share is entitled to five votes and each class B share is entitled to one vote. However, class A shares are entitled to only one vote in certain matters, such as:

a merger or spin-off in which we are not the surviving corporation, unless the acquirer’s shares are authorized to be publicly offered or listed on any stock exchange;


a transformation in our legal corporate form;

a fundamental change in our corporate purpose;

a change of our domicile to outside Argentina;

a voluntary termination of our public offering or listing authorization;

our continuation following a delisting or a mandatory cancellation of our public offering or listing authorization;

a total or partial recapitalization of our statutory capital following a loss; and

the appointment of syndics.

All distinctions between our class A shares and our class B shares will be eliminated upon the occurrence of any of the following change of control events:

EBA Holding sells 100% of its class A shares;

EBA Holding sells a portion of our class A shares to a third person who, when aggregating all our class A shares with our class B shares owned by such person, if any, obtains 50% plus one vote of our total votes; or

the current shareholders of EBA Holding sell shares of EBA Holding that will allow the buyer to exercise more than 50% of the voting power of EBA Holding at any general shareholders’ meeting of EBA Holding shareholders, except for transfers to other current shareholders of EBA Holding or to their heirs or their legal successors or to entities owned by any of them.

Limited Liability of Shareholders

Shareholders are not liable for our obligations. Shareholders’ liability is limited to the payment of the shares for which they subscribe. However, shareholders who have a conflict of interest with us and do not abstain from voting may be held liable for damages to us. Also, shareholders who willfully or negligently vote in favor of a resolution that is subsequently declared void by a court as contrary to Argentine law or our bylaws may be held liable for damages to us or to third parties, including other shareholders, resulting from such resolutions.

Directors

Our bylaws provide that the Board of Directors shall be composed by at least three and at most nine members, as decided at a general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. To be appointed to our Board of Directors, such person must have been presented as a candidate by shareholders who represent at least 10% of our voting rights, at least three business days before the date the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting is to be held. Our bylaws do not state an age limit over which the directors cannot serve on our board.

At each annual shareholders’ meeting, the term of one-third of the members of our Board of Directors (no fewer than three directors) expires and their successors are elected to serve for a term of three years. The shareholders’ meeting shall have the power to fix a shorter period (one or two years) for the terms of office of one, several or all the directors. This system of electing directors is intended to help maintain the continuity of the board. Alternate directors replace directors until the following general ordinary shareholders’ meeting is held. Directors may also be replaced by alternate directors if a director will be absent from a board meeting. The Board of Directors is required to meet at least once every month and anytime any one of the directors or syndics so requests.

Our bylaws state that the Board of Directors may decide to appoint an executive committee and/or a delegate director.


Our bylaws do not provide for any arrangements or understandings with major shareholders, customers, suppliers or others, pursuant to which any person referred to in this annual report was selected as a director or member of senior management.

Additionally, pursuant to our bylaws, any borrowing powers on behalf of the Company are granted to our Board of Directors. Our Board of Directors has the power to delegate these borrowing powers to our directors through a power of attorney and currently certain of our directors have powers of attorney to negotiate the terms of and borrow money on behalf of the Company. Furthermore, as stated by our bylaws, the chairman of our Board of Directors is also the legal representative of the Company. Although our bylaws do not expressly address a director’s power to vote on proposals, arrangements or contracts in which the director has a material interest, pursuant to customary Argentine business practice and certain tenants of Argentine corporate law, our directors do not vote on proposals, arrangements or contracts in which the director has a material interest.

Appointment of Directors and Syndics by Cumulative Voting

The Corporations Law provides for the use of cumulative voting to enable minority shareholders to appoint members of the board of directors and syndics. Upon the completion of certain requirements, shareholders are entitled to appoint up to one third of the vacancies to be filled on the board of directors by cumulative voting. Each shareholder voting cumulatively has the number of votes resulting from multiplying the number of votes to which such shareholder would normally be entitled by the number of vacancies to be filled. Such shareholder may apportion his votes or cast all such votes for one or a number of candidates not exceeding one-third of the vacancies to be filled.

Compensation of Directors

The Corporations Law and the CNV establish rules regarding the compensation of directors. The maximum amount of aggregate compensation that the members of the board of directors may receive, including salaries and other compensation for the performance of permanent technical and administrative services, may not exceed 25.0% of profits of each fiscal year. This maximum amount shall be limited to 5.0% when no dividends are distributed to the shareholders and shall be increased proportionately to the dividend distribution until the 25.0% limit is reached when all profits are distributed.

The Corporations Law provides that aggregate director compensation may exceed the maximum percentage of computable profit in any one year when the company’s profits are non-existent or too small as to allow payment of a reasonable compensation to board members which have been engaged in technical or administrative services to the company, provided that such proposal is described in the notice of the agenda for the ordinary shareholders’ meeting and is approved by a majority of shareholders present at such shareholders’ meeting.

In addition to the above, our bylaws establish that best practices and national and international market standards regarding directors with similar duties and responsibilities shall be considered when determining the compensation of board members.

Syndics

Our bylaws, in accordance with Argentine law, provide for the maintenance of a supervisory committee whose members are three permanent syndics and three alternate syndics. Syndics are elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected. Alternate syndics replace permanent syndics in case of absence. For the appointment of syndics, each of our class A shares and class B shares has only one vote. Fees for syndics are established by the shareholders at the annual ordinary shareholders’ meeting. Their function is to oversee the management of the Company, to control the legality of the actions of the board of directors, to attend all board of directors’ meetings, to attend all shareholders’ meetings, to prepare reports for the shareholders on the financial statements with their opinion, and to provide information regarding the Company to shareholders that represent at least 2% of the capital stock. Syndics’ liabilities are joint and several and unlimited for the non-fulfillment of their duties. They are also jointly and severally liable, together with the members of the board of directors, if the proper fulfillment of their duties as syndics would have avoided the damage or the losses caused by the members of the board of directors.


Shareholders’ Meetings

Shareholders’ meetings may be ordinary meetings or extraordinary meetings. An annual ordinary shareholders’ meeting is required to be held in each fiscal year to consider the matters outlined in Article 234 of the Corporations Law, including, among others:

approval of the financial statements and general performance of the management for the preceding fiscal year;

appointment and remuneration of directors and members of the supervisory committee;

allocation of profits; and

any other matter the board of directors decides to submit to the shareholders’ meeting concerning the Company’s business administration. Matters which may be discussed at these or other ordinary meetings include resolutions regarding the responsibility of directors and members of the supervisory committee, as well as capital increases and the issuance of notes.

Extraordinary shareholders’ meetings may be called at any time to discuss matters beyond the competence of the ordinary meeting, including but not limited to amendments to the bylaws, matters related to the liquidation of a company, limitation of the shareholders’ preemptive rights to subscribe new shares, issuance of bonds and debentures, transformation of the corporate form, a merger into another company and spin-offs, early winding-up, change of the Company’s domicile to outside Argentina, total or partial repayment of capital for losses, and a substantial change in the corporate purpose set forth in the bylaws.

Shareholders’ meetings may be convened by the board of directors or by the syndics. A shareholder or group of shareholders holding at least 5.0% in the aggregate of our capital stock may request the board of directors or the syndics to convene a general shareholders’ meeting to discuss the matters indicated by the shareholder.

Once a meeting has been convened with an agenda, the agenda limits the matters to be decided upon at such meeting and no other matters may be decided upon.

Additionally, our bylaws provide that any shareholder holding at least 5% in aggregate of our capital stock may present, in writing, to the Board of Directors, before February 28 of each year, proposals of items to be included in the agenda at the annual general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. The Board of Directors is not obligated to include such items in the agenda.

Class B shares represented by ADSs will be voted or caused to be voted by the Depositary in accordance with instructions of the holders of such ADSs. In the event instructions are not received from the holder, the Depositary shall give a discretionary proxy for the shares represented by such ADSs to a person designated by us.

Notice of each shareholders’ meeting must be published in the Official Gazette, and in a widely circulated newspaper in the country’s territory, at least twenty days prior to the meeting but not more than forty-five days prior to the date on which the meeting is to be held. The board of directors will determine the appropriate publication of notices outside Argentina in accordance with the requirements of the jurisdictions and exchanges on which our shares are traded. In order to attend a meeting and to be listed on the meeting registry, shareholders must submit evidence of their book-entry share account held at Caja de Valores at least three business days prior to the scheduled meeting date without counting the meeting day.

The quorum for ordinary meetings consists of a majority of stock entitled to vote, and resolutions may be adopted by the affirmative vote of 50% plus one vote (an “absolute majority”) of the votes present whether in person or participating via electronic means of communication. If no quorum is present at the first meeting, a second meeting may be called at which the shareholders present, whatever their number, shall constitute a quorum. Resolutions are to be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. The second meeting may be convened to be held one hour later on the same day as the first meeting had been called for, provided that it is an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, or within 30 days of the date for which the first ordinary meeting was called.


The quorum for extraordinary shareholders’ meetings consists of 60% of stock entitled to vote, and resolutions may be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. If noArgentine law and our bylaws require, in connection with extraordinary meetings, that a quorum consist of 60% of the stock entitled to vote. However, if such quorum is not present at the first meeting, our bylaws provide that a second meeting may be called at which may be held with the number of shareholders present, whatever their number, shall constitute a quorum. Resolutionspresent. In both ordinary and extraordinary meetings, decisions are to be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. The second meeting has to be convened to be held within 30 days of the date for which the first extraordinary meeting was called, and the notice must be published for three days, at least eight days before the date of the second meeting. Some special matters require a favorable vote of the majority of all the stock holding voting rights, the class A shares being granted the right to only one vote each. The special matters are described in “Voting Rights” above.

Dividends

Dividends may be lawfully paid and declared only out of our retained earnings representing the profit realized and liquid on our operations and investments reflected in our annual financial statements, as approved at our annual general shareholders’ meeting. No profits may be distributed until prior losses are covered. Dividends paid on our class A shares and class B shares will equal one another on a per-share basis.

As required by the Corporations Law, 5% of our net income is allocated to a legal reserve until the reserve equals 20% of our outstanding capital. Dividends may not be paid if the legal reserve has been impaired. The legal reserve is not available for distribution to shareholders.

Our Board of Directors submits our financial statements for the previous fiscal year, together with reports prepared by our supervisory committee, to our shareholders for approvalpresent at the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. The shareholders, upon approving the financial statements, determine the allocation of our net income.

Our Board of Directors is allowed by law and by our bylaws to decide to pay anticipated dividends on the basis of a balance sheet especially preparedmeeting, except for purposes of paying such dividends.

Under BYMA regulations, cash dividends must be paid to shareholders within ten days of the shareholders’ meeting approving said dividend. Payment of dividends in shares requires authorization from the CNV, the BYMA and the Córdoba Stock Exchange, whose authorizations must be requested within ten business days after the shareholders’ meeting approving the dividend. We must make a distribution of the shares available to shareholders not later than three months after receiving authorization to do so from the CNV.

Shareholders may no longer claim the payment of dividends from us after three years have elapsed from the date on which the relevant dividends were made available to such shareholders.

Capital Increases and Reductions

We may increase our capital upon resolution of the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. All capital increases must be reported to the CNV, published in the Official Gazette and registered with the Public Registry of Commerce. Capital reductions may be voluntary or mandatory. A voluntary reduction of capital must be approved by an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting after the corresponding authorization by the BYMA, the Córdoba Stock Exchange and the CNV and may take place only after notice of such reduction has been published and creditors have been given an opportunity to obtain payment or guarantees for their claims or attachment. A reduction of capital is mandatory when losses have exceeded reserves and more than 50% of the share capital of the Company.

Preemptive Rights

Under Argentine law, it is mandatory that a shareholder of ordinary shares of any given class have preemptive rights, proportional to the number of shares he or she owns, to subscribe for shares of capital stock of the same class or of any other class if the new subscription offer does not include all classes of shares. Shareholders may only decide to suspend or limit preemptive rights by supermajority at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting and only in exceptional cases. Shareholders may waive their preemptive rights only on a case-by-case basis.

In the event of an increase in our capital, holders of class A shares and class B shares have a preemptive right to subscribe for any issue of class B shares in an amount sufficient to maintain the proportion of capital then


held by them. Holders of class A shares are entitled to subscribe for class B shares because no further class A shares carrying five votes each are allowed to be issued in the future. Under Argentine law, companies are prohibited from issuing stock with multiple voting rights after they have been authorized to make a public offering of securities.

Preemptive rights are exercisable following the last publication of the notification to shareholders of the opportunity to exercise preemptive rights in the Official Gazette and an Argentine newspaper of wide circulation for a period of 30 days, provided that such period may be reduced to no less than ten days if so approved by an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting.

Shareholders who have exercised their preemptive rights and indicated their intention to exercise additional preemptive rights are entitled to additional preemptive rights (“accretion rights”), on a pro rata basis, with respect to any unsubscribed shares, in accordance with the terms of the Corporations Law. Class B shares not subscribed for by shareholders through the exercise of their preemptive or accretion rights may be offered to third parties.

Holders of ADSs may be restricted in their ability to exercise preemptive rights if a registration statement relating to such rights has not been filed or is not effective or if an exemption from registration is not available.

Appraisal Rights

Whenever our shareholders approve:

a merger or spin-off in which we are not the surviving corporation, unless the acquirer’s shares are authorized to be publicly offered or listed on any stock exchange,

a transformation in our legal corporate form,

acertain fundamental change in our corporate purpose,

a change of our domicile to outside Argentina,

a voluntary termination of our public offering or listing authorization,

our continuation following a delisting or a mandatory cancellation of our public offering or listing authorization, or

a total or partial recapitalization of our statutory capital following a loss,

any shareholder that voted against such action or did not attend the relevant meeting may exercise its right to have its shares canceled in exchange for the book value of its shares, determined on the basis of our latest balance sheet prepared in accordance with Argentine laws and regulations, provided that such shareholder exercises its appraisal rights within the periods set forth below.

There is, however, doubtmatters (such as to whether holders of ADSs, will be able to exercise appraisal rights with respect to class B shares represented by ADSs.

Appraisal rights must be exercised within five days following the adjournment of the meeting at which the resolution was adopted, in the event that the dissenting shareholder voted against such resolutions, or within 15 days following such adjournment if the dissenting shareholder did not attend such meeting and can prove that he was a shareholder on the date of such meeting. In the case of a merger or spin-off involving an entity authorized to make a public offering of its shares, appraisal rights may not be exercised if the shares to be received as a result of such transaction are listed on any stock exchange. Appraisal rights are extinguished if the resolution giving rise to such rights is overturned at another shareholders’ meeting held within 75 days of the meeting at which the resolution was adopted.


Payment of the appraisal rights must be made within one year from the date of the shareholders’ meeting at which the resolution was adopted, except if the resolution was to delist our capital stock, in which case the payment period is reduced to 60 days from the date of the related resolution.

Preferred Stock

According to the Corporations Law and our bylaws, an ordinary shareholders’ meeting may approve the issuance of preferred stock. Such preferred stock may have a fixed dividend, cumulative or not cumulative, with or without additional participation in our profits, as decided by shareholders at a shareholders’ meeting when determining the conditions of the issuance. They may also have other preferences, such as a preference in the event of our liquidation.

The holders of preferred stock shall not be entitled to voting rights. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that no dividends are paid to such holders for their preferred stock, and for as long as such dividends are not paid, the holders of preferred stock shall be entitled to voting rights. Holders of preferred stock are also entitled to vote on certain special matters, such as the transformation of the corporate form, a merger into another companymergers and spin-offs (when we are not the surviving entity and the surviving entity is not listed on any stock exchange), early winding-up,anticipated liquidation, a change ofin our domicile to outside of Argentina, total or partial repaymentrecapitalization of our statutory capital for losses andfollowing a loss, any transformation in our corporate legal form or a substantial change in our corporate purpose) which require an approval by vote of the corporate purpose set forth in our bylaws ormajority of all the stock entitled to vote (all stock being entitled to only one vote).

(viii)

Rule 5620 (b) – Solicitation of Proxies. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5620 (b), we follow Argentine law which requires that notices of shareholders’ meetings be published, for five consecutive days, in the eventOfficial Gazette and in a widely circulated newspaper in Argentina no earlier than 45 calendar days prior to the meeting and at least 20 calendar days prior to such meeting. In order to attend a meeting and be listed on the meeting registry, shareholders are required to submit evidence of their book-entry share account held at Caja de Valores S.A. up to three business days prior to the scheduled meeting date. If entitled to attend the meeting, a shareholder may be represented by proxy (properly executed and delivered with a certified signature) granted to any other person, with the exception of a director, syndic, member of the surveillance committee (“consejo de vigilancia”), manager or employee of the issuer, which are prohibited by Argentine law from acting as proxies. In addition, our preferred stock is tradedADRs holders receive, prior to the shareholders’ meeting, a notice listing the matters on stock exchangesthe agenda, a copy of the annual report and such trading is suspended or terminated.a voting card.

(ix)

Rule 5630 (a) – Conflicts of Interest

As a protectionInterest. In lieu of the requirements of Rule 5630 (a), we follow Argentine law which requires that related party transactions be approved by the audit committee when the transaction exceeds 1% of the corporation’s net worth, measured pursuant to minority shareholders,the last audited balance sheet. Directors can contract with the corporation only on terms consistent with prevailing market terms. If the contract is not in accordance with prevailing market terms, such transaction must be pre-approved by the board of directors (excluding the interested director). In addition, under the Corporations Law,Argentine law, a shareholder is required to abstain from voting on any resolutiona business transaction in which its direct or indirect interests may be in conflict with thatthe interests of or are different than ours.the company. In the event such shareholder votes on such resolution,business transaction and such resolutionbusiness transaction would not have been approved without such shareholders’ vote, such shareholder may be liable to the company for damages and the resolution may be declared void by a courtvoid. For further information, please see Item 7. “Major Shareholders and such shareholder may be liable for damagesRelated Party Transactions” – “B.Related Party Transactions”.

Other than as noted above, we are in full compliance with all other applicable Nasdaq corporate governance standards.

D. Employees

The following table shows the composition of our staff:

   As of December 31, 
   2020   2019   2018 

Grupo Financiero Galicia

   2    3    5 

Banco Galicia

   5,764    6,118    6,294 

Branches

   3,711    3,248    3,231 

Head Office

   2,053    2,870    3,063 

Ecosistema NaranjaX

   3,049    3,151    3,488 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos

   24    27    22 

Assurance Companies

   368    395    381 

Other Subsidiaries

   64    24    19 

Total

   9,271    9,718    10,209 

Within the current legal framework, membership in an employee union is voluntary and there is only one union of bank employees with national representation. As of December 31, 2020, approximately 40% of Banco Galicia’s employees were affiliated with the national bank employee union. As of December 31, 2020, approximately 90% of Ecosistema NaranjaX’ work force was party to the merchant union’s Collective Bargaining Agreement No.130/75 applicable to trade employees and 6% of which were members of a labor union.

In general, during the first six months of 2020, the bank employees union and the national commerce employee’s union commenced negotiations on their respective collective labor agreements to establish new minimum wages. As a result of such negotiations, the minimum wage was increased for these positions. In 2020, due to the significant increases in the inflation index, the increases in the banking agreement were carried out in the months of January, March, July, October, November and December. In 2020, the Argentine union that represents employees in the banking sector declared general strikes. These strikes were not specific to any bank but affected all banks in Argentina. Certain of the Bank’s employees who are members of the union participated in the strike; however, the Bank was able to continue its operations during such time as not all employees are members of the union. While employees of Banco Galicia have participated in general strikes against the Argentine banking sector, Banco Galicia has not experienced a targeted strike by its employees since 1973 and Tarjetas Regionales Companies have never experienced a targeted employee strike. We believe that our relationship with our employees is stable and positive.

We have a human resources policy that aims at providing our employees possibilities for growth and personal and socio-economic achievement. We will continue our current policy of monitoring both wage levels and labor conditions in the financial industry in order to be competitive. Our employees receive fixed compensation and may receive variable compensation according to their level of achievement. We do not maintain any profit-sharing programs for our employees.

In a survey conducted in 2020 by Great Place to Work®, Banco Galicia ranked among the best companies to work in Argentina for the fourth consecutive year with more than 1,000 employees, while Naranja ranked among the best companies to work in Argentina for the third year consecutive with more than 1,000 employees.

The Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires (the “Fundación”) is an Argentine non-profit organization that provides various services to Banco Galicia employees. The various activities of the Fundación include, among others, purchasing school materials for the children of Banco Galicia’s employees and making donations to hospitals and other charitable causes, including cultural events. The Fundación is managed by a Council, certain members and alternate members of which are members of our Board of Directors and supervisory committee. Members and alternate members of the Council do not receive remuneration for their services as trustees.

E. Share Ownership

For information on the share ownership of our directors and executive officers as of December 31, 2020, see Item 7. “Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—A. Major Shareholders”.

Item 7.

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

A. Major Shareholders

As of March 31, 2021, our capital structure was made up of class A shares, each of which is entitled to five votes and class B shares, each of which is entitled to one vote. As of March 31, 2021, we had 1,474,692,091 shares outstanding composed of 281,221,650 class A shares and 1,193,470,441 class B shares.

Our controlling shareholders are members of the Escasany, Ayerza and Braun families and the Fundación Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires. As of March 31, 2021, the controlling shareholders owned 100% of our class A shares through EBA Holding (representing 19.1% of our total outstanding shares) and 9.3% of our class B shares (or 7.5% of our total outstanding shares), therefore directly and indirectly owning 26.6% of our shares and 58.4% of total votes.

Based on information that is available to us, the table below sets forth, as of March 31, 2021, the number of our class A and class B shares held by holders of more than 5% of each class of shares, the percentage of each class of shares held by such holder, and the percentage of votes that each class of shares represent as a percentage of our total possible votes.

Class A Shares

Name

  Class A Shares   % of Class A Shares   % of Total Votes 

EBA Holding S.A.

   281,221,650    100    54.1 

Class B Shares

Name

  Class A Shares   % of Class A Shares   % of Total Votes 

The Bank of New York Mellon (1)

   498,281,860    41.8    19.2 

ANSES

   264,275,733    22.1    10.2 

EBA Holding Shareholders (2)

   110,411,743    9.3    4.3 

(1)

Pursuant to the Companyrequirements of Argentine law, all class B shares represented by ADSs are owned of record by The Bank of New York, as well as to any third party, including other shareholders.

Redemption or Repurchase

According toDepositary. The address for the Capital Markets Law, a stock corporation may acquireBank of New York Mellon is 101 Barclay Street, New York 10286, and the shares issued by it, provided thatcountry of organization is the public offering and listing thereof has been authorized, subject to the following terms and conditions and those set forth by the CNV. The above-mentioned conditions are: (i) the shares to be acquired shall be fully paid up; (ii) there shall be a resolution signed by the board of directors to such effect; (iii) the acquisition shall be made out of net profits or free or voluntary reserves; and (iv) the total amount of shares acquired by the Company, including previously acquired shares, shall not exceed 10%United States.

(2)

No member holds more than 2.0% of the capital stock or such lower percentage determined by the CNV. Thestock. Such holding includes 15,356,360 shares acquired by the Company in excess of such limit shall be disposed of within the term of 90 days after the date of the acquisition originating such excess.

The shares acquired by the Company shall be disposed of by the Company within the maximum term of three years counted as from the date of acquisition thereof. Upon disposing of the shares, the Company shall make a preemptive offer thereof. Such an offer will not be obligatory if the shares are used in connection with a compensation plan or program for the Company’s employees or if the shares are distributed among all shareholders pro rata their shareholdings. If shareholders do not exercise, in whole or in part, their preemptive rights, the sale shall be made at a stock exchange.

Liquidation

Upon our liquidation, one or more liquidators may be appointed to wind up our affairs. If no such appointment is made, our Board of Directors will act as liquidator. All outstanding common shares will be entitled to participate equally in any distribution upon liquidation. In the event of liquidation, in Argentina and in any other country, our assets shall first be applied to satisfy our debts and liabilities.


Other Provisions

Our bylaws are governed by Argentine law and the ownership of any kind of our shares represents acceptance of our bylaws and submission to the exclusive jurisdiction of the ordinary commercial courts of Buenos Aires for any claim or dispute related to us, our shareholders, directors and members of the supervisory committee.

C. Material Contracts

Bonds

During the 2016 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued subordinated Class II notes due 2026 in an aggregate principal amount of US$250 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to redeem the Bank’s outstanding subordinated notes due 2019. During the 2017 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Class III notes in an aggregate principal amount of US$150.5 million due 2020 and Class IV notes in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.2,000 million due 2020. During the 2018 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Class V Series I notes due 2020 and Series II notes due 2020 in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.4,209 million and Ps.2,032 million, respectively.  

The pricing supplements for the issuances described above set forth certain covenants Banco Galicia must comply with for the benefit of the holders of such notes, which include, among others, restrictions on mergers, acquisitions or dispositions (subject to certain exceptions) and restrictions on the incurrence of additional debt.  

For additional detail regarding the notes issued during fiscal year 2018, see Note 28 to our financial statements.

Loans

In May 2016, the IFC granted Banco Galicia a credit line in an amount of up to US$130 million. As of May 2018, Banco Galicia has drawn all of the commited amount and the loan was amortized for Ps.8 million.

On March 23, 2018, Banco Galicia announced the issuance of a green bond to raise US$.100 million in order to expand its loan program for environmental efficiency projects. This is the first green bond issued by a private financial institution in Argentina, marking Banco Galicia’s commitment to finance projects with a positive impact on the environment.The bonds were underwritten on June 21, 2018 by the IFC. To date, loans for US$10 million were granted.

D. Exchange Controls

For a description of the exchange controls that would affect us or the holders of our securities, see Item 4. “Information on the CompanyGovernment RegulationForeign Exchange Market”.

E. Taxation

The following is a summary of the principal Argentine and U.S. federal income tax consequences arising from the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our class B shares and ADSs. This summary is based on Argentine and U.S. federal tax laws, as well as the regulations in effect as of the date of this annual report. Further, this summary is subject to any subsequent changes in laws and regulations that may come into effect after this date. Any change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued validity of this summary. This summary does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion with respect to the transactions that the holders of our class B shares or ADSs may enter into. This summary is only a brief description of certain (but not all) aspects of the Argentine and U.S. federal income tax systems, as they relate to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our class B shares and ADSs. In addition, although the Company believes that the following summary is a reasonable interpretation of the current taxation rules and regulations, Grupo Galicia cannot assure that the applicable authorities or tribunals will agree with all, or any of the tax consequences outlined below. Currently, there is no tax treaty between the United States and Argentina.


Argentine Taxes

Law No.26,893, enacted on September 12, 2013 and published in the Official Gazette on September 23, 2013, introduced changes to Income Tax Law No.20,628, including the derogationform of Section 78 of Decree No.2284/1991; which provides that foreign holders with no permanent establishment in Argentina are exempt from paying income tax on the capital gains arising from the sale or other disposition of shares or ADSs.

Decree No.2334/2013 has regulated Law No.26,893. This decree provides that changes introduced by Law No.26,893 are effective from the date of publication of such law in the Official Gazette and apply to taxable events carried out from such date onwards.

Law No.27,430 enacted on December 27, 2017 and published in the Official Gazette on December 29, 2017, introduced several changes to Income Tax Law No.20,628. The principal change resulting from such law is a corporate income tax rate reduction in two phases. For fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2018 until December 31, 2019, the government has reduced the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 30%. After December 31, 2019, the corporate tax rate will be further reduced to 25%.

This reform includes additional changes, such as the confirmation that ADRs and ADSs generate Argentine-sourced income. Non- residents, however, will be exempted from the current 15% capital gains tax on the sale of ADRs or ADSs if they reside in a jurisdiction having an exchange of information agreement with Argentina or if these invested funds come from a cooperating jurisdiction.

Taxation of Dividends

As from the effectiveness of Law No. 27,430, dividends distributions (other than stock dividends) made by local entities to individuals, undivided estates, and foreign entities are subject to a withholding tax at a rate of 7% (while the corporate income tax is 30%) and at a rate of 13% beginning January 1, 2020. Thus, the combined rate on dividend/profit distribution would remain around the current 35% rate, as Argentina has not levied a withholding tax on dividends or branch profits, since it eliminated the same in 2016.

Decree No.1170/2018 provides for further guidance on Law No.27,430. This decree provides that dividend payments on ADSs or ordinary shares, whether in cash, property, or stock, would be subject to Argentine withholding tax and the exemption referred to in the last paragraph of “Argentine Taxes” above shall not apply.

Equalization Tax

There is a specific rule under which a 35% tax (“equalization tax”) will be imposed on certain dividends approved by shareholders. The equalization tax will be applied only to the extent that distributions of dividends exceed the taxable income of the company increased by non-taxable dividends received by the distributing company in prior years and reduced by Argentine income tax paid by the distributing company.

The equalization tax will be imposed as a withholding tax on the shareholder receiving the dividend. Dividend distributions made in kind (other than cash) will be subject to the same tax rules as cash dividends. Stock dividends are not subject to Argentine taxation.

Based on information that is available to us, the table below sets forth, as of March 31, 2021, the shareholders that either directly or indirectly have more than 5% of our votes or shares.

Name

  Shares   Class   % of Class A
Shares
   % of Total Votes 

The Bank of New York Mellon

   498,281,860    B    33.8    19.2 

EBA Holding S.A.

   281,221,650    A    19.1    54.1 

ANSES.

   264,275,733    B    17.9    10.2 

EBA Holding Shareholders.

   110,411,743    B    7.5    4.3 

Members of the three controlling families have owned the majority of the issued share capital of Banco Galicia since 1959. Members of the Escasany family have been on the board of directors of Banco Galicia since 1923. The Ayerza and Braun families have been represented on Banco Galicia’s board of directors since 1943 and 1947, respectively. Currently, there are five members of these families on our Board of Directors.

On September 13, 1999, the controlling shareholders of Banco Galicia formed EBA Holding S.A., an Argentine corporation, which is 100% owned by our controlling shareholders. EBA Holding holds 100% of our class A shares.

Currently, EBA Holding only has class A shares outstanding. EBA Holding’s bylaws provide for certain restrictions on the sale or transfer of its class A shares. While the class A shares of EBA Holding may be transferred to any other class A shareholder of EBA Holding, any transfer of such class A shares to third parties would automatically result in the conversion of the sold shares into class B shares of EBA Holding having one vote per share. In addition, EBA Holding’s bylaws contain rights of first refusal, buy-sell provisions and tag-along rights.

As of March 31, 2021, we had 135 identified United States record shareholders (not considering The Bank of New York), of which 22 held our class B shares and 113 held our ADSs. Such United States holders, in the aggregate, held approximately 98.4 million of our class B shares, representing approximately 6.7% of our total outstanding capital stock as of such date.

B. Related Party Transactions

Grupo Financiero Galicia and its non-banking subsidiaries are not a party to any transactions with, and have not made any loans to any (i) enterprises that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, control or are controlled by Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, (ii) associates (i.e., an unconsolidated enterprise in which Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries has a significant influence or which has significant influence over Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries), (iii) individuals owning, directly or indirectly, an interest in the voting power of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries that gives them significant influence over Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable, and close members of any such individual’s family (i.e., those family members that may be expected to influence, or be influenced by, that person in their dealings with Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable), (iv) key management personnel (i.e., persons that have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, including directors and senior management of companies and close members of such individual’s family) or (v) enterprises in which a substantial interest is owned, directly or indirectly, by any person described in (iii) or (iv) over which such a person is able to exercise significant influence nor are there any proposed transactions with such persons. For purposes of this paragraph, this includes enterprises owned by directors or major shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries that have a member of key management in common with Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable. In addition, “significant influence” means the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the enterprise but means less than control. Shareholders beneficially owning a 10% interest in the voting power of Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries are presumed to have a significant influence on Grupo Financiero Galicia or its non-banking subsidiaries, as applicable.

Some of our directors and the directors of Banco Galicia have been involved in certain credit transactions with Banco Galicia as permitted by Argentine law. The Corporations Law and the BCRA’s regulations allow directors of a limited liability company to enter into a transaction with such company if such transaction follows prevailing market conditions. Additionally, a bank’s total financial exposure to related individuals or legal entities is subject to the regulations of the BCRA. Such regulations set limits on the amount of financial exposure that can be extended by a bank to affiliates based on, among other things, a percentage of a bank’s TIER 1. See Item 4. “Information on the Company—Argentine Banking Regulation—Lending Limits”.

Banco Galicia is required by the BCRA to present to its board of directors, on a monthly basis, the outstanding amounts of financial assistance granted to directors, controlling shareholders, officers and other related entities, which are transcribed in the minute books of the board of directors of Banco Galicia. The BCRA establishes that the financial assistance granted to directors, controlling shareholders, officers and other related entities must be granted on an equal basis with respect to rates, tenor and guarantees as loans granted to the general public.

In this section “total financial exposure” comprises equity interests and financial assistance (all credit related items such as loans, holdings of corporate debt securities without quotation, guarantees granted and unused balances of loans granted, among others), as this term is defined in Item 4. “Information on the Company—Argentine Banking Regulation—Lending Limits”.

“Related parties” refers mainly to our directors and the directors of Banco Galicia, our senior officers and senior officers of Banco Galicia, our syndics and Banco Galicia’s syndics, our controlling shareholders as well as all individuals who are related to them by a family relationship and any entities directly or indirectly affiliated with any of these parties, not required to be consolidated.

The following table presents the aggregate amounts of total financial exposure of Grupo Financiero Galicia to related parties, the number of recipients, the average amounts and the maximum assistance as of the end of the two fiscal years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, and as of February 28, 2021, the last date for which information is available.

   February 28,   December 31, 
   2021(1)   2020   2019 
   (in millions of Pesos, except as noted) 

Total Financial Exposure

   2,360    1,992    1,500 

Number of Recipient Related Parties

   268    269    283 

Individuals

   207    208    229 

Companies

   61    61    54 

Average Amount of Financial Exposure

   9    7    5 

Maximum Assistance

   401    509    596 

(1)

In addition, the foregoing tax reforms abolished the equalization tax for profits generated beginning January 1, 2018. Such equalization tax is a withholding tax levied at a rate of 35% on dividend distributions in excess of tax earnings that would remain applicable for the stock of non-distributed earnings and profits as of December 31, 2017.February 28, 2021 currency.

The financial assistance granted to our directors, officers and related parties by Banco Galicia was granted in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other non-related parties, and did not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features.

In June 2011, Banco Galicia entered into an agreement with Galicia Seguros, a company indirectly controlled by Grupo Financiero Galicia, pursuant to which the Bank can offer insurance products on behalf of Galicia Seguros. In addition, they entered into an agreement for a one-year period pursuant to which Galicia Seguros insures the Bank for the balances of certain loans in the case of death of its clients. On July 31, 2014, Banco Galicia renewed both agreements with Galicia Seguros, for an additional year, with automatic deferral. Such agreements were considered to be “related party transactions” pursuant to Section 72 of the Capital Markets Law.

Subsequently, on July 25 ,2008, Naranja concluded two new leasing operations with Banco Galicia for two properties located in the City of Córdoba, Argentina for a total of Ps.12 million, with maturity dates on August 25, 2018, and August 7, 2020. Likewise, on October 31, 2012 Naranja signed another leasing operation with Banco Galicia on a property located in the City of Córdoba, the total of the operation was Ps.15 million and with a maturity date on November 30, 2022.

In September 2015, the term for the lease operations of real estate located in the City of Córdoba was extended to 121 months from that date, and the corresponding rates were unified. The interest rate applied is the Private Banks Corrected Survey Rate plus a 6% margin.

C. Interest of Experts and Counsel.

Not applicable.


Taxation of Capital GainsItem 8.

Financial Information

In accordance with Law No.27,430 capital gains derived by non-resident individuals or foreign companies from the sale, exchange or other disposition of ADSs or class B shares are subject to the following regulations:

Non-residents continue to be exempted from tax on capital gains arising from the sale of shares in publicly- traded companies, if the shares are traded on the BASE.

Transfer of Argentine securities that occurred after September 23, 2013 triggered taxation on a retroactive basis, as the suspension

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Consolidated Financial Statements

We have elected to provide the financial information set forth in Item 18 of this annual report.

Legal Proceedings

We are a party to the following legal proceedings:

Banco Galicia

In response to certain pending legal proceedings, Banco Galicia has recorded reserves to cover (i) various types of claims filed by customers against it (e.g., claims for thefts from safe deposit boxes, collections of checks that had been fraudulently altered, discrepancies related to deposit and payment services rendered to Banco Galicia’s customers, etc.) and (ii) estimated amounts payable under labor-related lawsuits filed against Banco Galicia by former employees.

Banco Galicia challenged certain claims made by various jurisdictions at the corresponding administrative and/or legal proceedings. These proceedings and their possible effects are constantly being monitored by the Bank’s management. Even though Banco Galicia considers it has complied with its tax liabilities in full pursuant to current regulations, adequate reserves in respect of such proceedings have been allocated.

As of December 31, 2020, a number of claims for repayment of income tax overpaid were filed for the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017,2018 and 2019 tax years for the total sum of Ps.10.754 million. The claims are based on jurisprudence establishing the unconstitutionality of rules that disenable the application of the tax inflation adjustment, which results in confiscatory situations. In the face of the delay in resolving the tax code, claims were initiated. At the close of these financial statements, the Bank does not record contingent assets derived from the above-mentioned claims.

Consumer Protection Associations, on behalf of consumers, have filed claims against Banco Galicia in connection with the collection of certain financial charges. The Bank does not believe that the resolution of these controversies will have a significant impact on its financial condition.

Ecosistema NaranjaX

The national tax and customs authority (AFIP), Provincial Revenue Boards and Municipalities are in the process of conducting audits and assessments, in differing stages of completion, on the companies of Ecosistema NaranjaX. Said agencies have served notices and made claims regarding taxes applicable to Ecosistema NaranjaX’ s companies. Such companies are taking the corresponding administrative and legal steps in order to solve such issues. The original amount claimed for taxes totaled approximately Ps.38 million.

As of December 1, 2017, Naranja had filed a reimbursement claim before the AFIP regarding its income tax for the 2014-2016 fiscal years in an amount equal to Ps.580,164 in nominal value. The claim was made considering the lack of application of the inflation adjustment standards set forth in Section VI of the rule that called for the tax was lifted. The tax will not apply to sales made through stock exchanges if the tax had not been withheld.

Indirect transfers of Argentine assets (including shares) will be taxable, if (i) the value of the Argentine assets exceed 30% of the transaction’s overall value; and (ii) the equity interest sold (in the foreign entity) exceeds 10%. The tax will also be due if any of these thresholds were met during the 12 month period prior to the sale. The indirect transfer of Argentine assets will only be subject to tax if these assets are acquired after January 1, 2018. Transactions involving indirect transfers of Argentine assets within the same economic group would also not trigger taxation, provided the requirements set by regulations have been met. Decree No.279/2018 and General Resolution No.4227/2018, provide that the seller, and not the buyer, is the party responsible for withholding the tax. The regulation has established a new mechanism regulating how non-resident sellers should pay the tax on the capital gain for transactions that have taken place on or after January 1, 2018. In summary, the non-resident seller should pay the tax directly through an international wire transfer unless there is a local withholding agent (i.e., local buyer or local custodial institution) involved in the payment.

Transfer Taxes: no Argentine transfer taxes are applicable on the sale or transfer of ADSs or class B shares.

Tax on Minimum Notional Income

The tax reform in force since 1999 reinstituted a tax on assets of Argentine companies. This tax is similar to the asset tax that was previously in effect in Argentina from 1990 to 1995. It applies at a general rate of 1% on a broadly defined asset base encompassing most of the taxpayer’s gross assets at the end of any fiscal year ending after December 31, 1998.

Specifically, the Law establishes that banks, other financial institutions and insurance companies will consider a taxable base equal to 20% of the value of taxable assets.

Income tax and asset tax payments for a tax year will reduce a company’s tax liability on assets for that tax year; and can be carried forward to be applied against the company’s income tax liability in any of the next 10 tax years.

According to Law No.27,260, this tax will be repealed as of 2019.

Personal Assets Tax Law, which led to a substantial difference in the taxable income exceeding the reasonable limits of taxation. The same claim was presented on behalf of Tarjetas Cuyanas as of May 17, 2018, for 2014-2016, amounting Ps.145,478. Along the same lines, on September 27, 2019, the Company presented the claim pertaining to the 2017 fiscal year for the amount of Ps.326,498 in nominal value and on September 17, 2019, the one of 2018 was presented in an amount equal to Ps.973,843 in nominal value.

In the absence of a response from AFIP, on December 6, 2019, a judicial protection for default was filed with the National Tax Court for the periods 2014 and 2016 of Naranja. On the other hand, and having elapsed the period established in the applicable regulations without obtaining AFIP’s response to the claim, on December 27, 2019, a repetition claim was filed before the Federal Justice for the 2014 and 2016 fiscal years of Tarjetas Cuyanas and fiscal year 2018 of Naranja. The same lawsuit was filed on December 30, 2019 for the 2017 fiscal year of Naranja. Both claims remain pending before the AFIP.

On May 26, 2020 Naranja filed a reimbursement claim regarding its income tax for the 2019 year in an amount of Ps.1,365 million in nominal value.

Based on the opinion of tax advisors, each of Naranja and Tarjetas Cuyanas believes that such claims are unfounded and that the taxes related to such claims have been correctly calculated in accordance the tax regulations then in force and Argentine case law.

Dividend Policy and Dividends

Dividend Policy

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s policy for the distribution of dividends considers, among other factors, the obligatory nature of establishing a legal reserve, the Company’s financial condition and its indebtedness, the business requirements of affiliated companies and, mainly, that the profits recorded in the financial statements are, to a great extent, income from holdings and not realized and liquid profits, a requirement of Section 68 of the Corporations Law so that it is possible to distribute them as dividends. The proposal to distribute dividends arising from such analysis has to be approved at the shareholders’ meeting that discusses the Financial Statements corresponding to each fiscal year.

We may only declare and pay dividends out of our retained earnings representing the profit realized on our operations and investments. The Corporations Law and our bylaws state that no profits may be distributed until prior losses are covered. Dividends paid on our class A shares and class B shares will equal one another on a per share basis. As required by the Corporations Law, 5% of our net income is allocated to a legal reserve until the reserve equals 20% of our outstanding capital. Dividends may not be paid if the legal reserve has been impaired until it is fully restored. The legal reserve is not available for distribution to shareholders. Additionally, for fiscal year 2020, the application of the accounting inflation adjustment method generated negative results that will need to be absorbed.

Our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders principally depends on (i) our net income, (ii) cash availability, (iii) indebtedness and (iv) applicable legal requirements.

Holders of our ADSs will be entitled to receive any dividends payable in respect of our underlying class B shares. We will pay cash dividends to the ADSs depositary in Pesos, although we reserve the right to pay cash dividends in any other currency, including Dollars. The ADSs deposit agreement provides that the depositary will convert cash dividends received by the ADSs depositary in Pesos to Dollars and, after deduction or upon payment of fees and expenses of the ADSs depositary and deduction of other amounts permitted to be deducted from such cash payments in accordance with the ADSs deposit agreement (such as for unpaid taxes by the ADSs holders in connection with personal asset taxes or otherwise), will make payment to holders of our ADSs in Dollars.

Dividends

Grupo Financiero Galicia

As a holding company, our principal source of cash from which to pay dividends on our shares is dividends or other intercompany transfers from our subsidiaries, primarily Banco Galicia. Due to dividend restrictions contained in Banco Galicia’s loan agreements in connection with Banco Galicia’s foreign debt restructuring - that were lifted when such debt was fully paid during fiscal year 2016 - and in some BCRA regulations, our ability to distribute cash dividends to our shareholders has been materially and adversely affected since late 2001 until 2010, when Banco Galicia obtained the authorization to distribute its profits.

After the end of fiscal year 2011, the BCRA modified its regulations governing the minimum capital requirements and dividend distribution and, consequently, Banco Galicia was not able to pay dividends. However, for fiscal year 2018 the Bank had met the aforementioned regulations and its shareholders´ meeting held on April 25, 2019 approved the distribution of cash dividends for Ps.1,500 million, equivalent to Ps.2,717 million as of December 2020.

Currently, the ability to pay dividends of our subsidiary Banco Galicia and the Argentine financial system as a whole have been restricted by the Argentina Central Bank up to June 30, 2021 (subject to further extension) within the framework of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During 2019, Grupo Financiero Galicia paid cash dividends for Ps.2,000 million for fiscal year 2018, representing Ps.1.401773 per share, equivalent to Ps.3,623 million as of December 2020. During 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia paid cash dividends for fiscal year 2019 in the amount of Ps.1,700 million, representing Ps.1,191507 per share, equivalent to Ps.1,824 million as of December 2020.

Due to the fact that most of the profits in fiscal year 2020 correspond to holdings income that does not meet the requirements for distribution set forth in Section 68 of the Corporations’ Law and given Grupo Financiero Galicia’s financial condition, a proposal was made by the Board of Directors, to be treated at the next Shareholders’ Meeting to be held on April 27, 2021. The proposal was to absorb the negative results generated by the application of the accounting inflation adjustment method and to distribute a cash dividend for an amount, that, when inflation adjusted pursuant to Resolution 777/2018 of the Argentine Securities Exchange Commission, results in Ps.1,500,000,000, (which represents 101.7161%) being distributed with regard to 1,474,692,091 class A and B ordinary shares, with a face value of Ps.1 each, through the partial reduction of the discretionary reserve for future dividends’ distribution created in the year 2020.

Pursuant Act No.27,260, Grupo Financiero Galicia neither reimbursed nor withheld any amount for tax purposes on the dividends paid for fiscal year 2018.

For fiscal year 2019, pursuant to what is set forth in the third paragraph of the article without number incorporated after article 25 of Act No. 23,966, replaced by article 4 of Act No. 26,452, when corresponding, the Company was reimbursed of the amounts paid for the fiscal year 2019 in its capacity as substitute taxpayer of the shareholders’ subject to the tax on personal assets. Similarly, for fiscal year 2020, Grupo Financiero Galicia will withhold, when corresponding, some amount for taxes on personal assets on the dividends to be distributed.

For more information on requirements for dividend distribution, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”-B.“Business Overview”— “Argentine Banking Regulation”—“Profit Distribution”.

Banco Galicia

The ability to pay dividends of Banco Galicia and the Argentine financial system as a whole have been restricted by the BCRA up to June 30, 2021 (subject to extension) within the framework of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. For further information see Item 3. Key Information – D. Risk Factors – Risks Factors Relating to Us.

Sudamericana Holding

During the year 2020, Sudamericana held an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.1.290 million.

On February 24, 2021 Sudamericana Holding held an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.1,100 million.

Galicia Administradora de Fondos

On March 29, 2021, Galicia Administradora de Fondos held an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.800 million.

Galicia Securities

On March 30, 2021, Galicia Securities held an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.150 million.

Galicia Warrants

On March 29, 2021, Galicia Warrants held an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, at which shareholders approved the payment of a cash dividend in the amount of Ps.40 million.

B. Significant Changes

Since the closing date of the annual financial statements (December 31st, 2020), Grupo Financiero Galicia has not experienced any significant changes other than those already indicated in this report. For further information regarding significant changes, please see Item 3. Key Information – Risk Factors – Risk Factors Relating to Argentina; Item 5. Operating Results and Item 5. Liquidity and Capital Resources.

 

Item 9.

Individuals domiciledThe Offer and undivided estates located in Argentina or abroad will be subject to an annual tax in respect of assets located in Argentina and abroad. Applicable wealth tax rates and minimum non-taxable asset values for the general taxpayer regime are replaced with effect as of fiscal year 2019 by Law No.27,480.Listing

A. Offer and Listing Details

Shares and ADSs

Our class B shares are listed on the BYMA, MAE and the Córdoba Stock Exchange under the symbol “GGAL”. Our class B shares have started listing on MAE since October 28, 2015. Our ADSs, each representing ten class B shares, are listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market, under the symbol “GGAL”. Our ADSs have been listed on Nasdaq Capital Market since August 2002. Previously, our ADSs had been listed on the Nasdaq National Market since July 24, 2000.

Argentine Securities Market

The principal and oldest exchange for the Argentine securities market is the BYMA. The BYMA started operating in 1854 and handles the largest proportion of all equity trading in Argentina. Securities listed on the BYMA include corporate equity and debt securities and government securities. Debt securities listed on the BYMA may also be listed on the MAE. The MERVAL, which is affiliated with the BYMA, was founded in 1929 and is the largest stock market in Argentina. The MERVAL is a private entity, whose capital is integrated by shares admitted to public offer regime and was registered as a market by the CNV under N°16. Its capital is composed of 103 outstanding shares and there are 248 agents registered as members of the MERVAL market. We are member of the MERVAL through INVIU S.A.U. and Galicia Securities S.A., subsidiaries that owns one share each. Additionally, the Bank, within the framework of the Capital Market Law, was authorized by the CNV to act as a settlement and clearing agent and trading agent-comprehensive and was added as member of the MERVAL.

Trading on the BYMA is conducted through a trading platform introduced during 2017 called Millenium, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each business day of the year. The Millenium software is a computer trading platform system that permits trading in debt and equity securities that can be accessed by brokers directly from workstations located at their offices. As a result of an agreement between the MERVAL and the MAE, equity securities are traded exclusively on the BYMA and corporate and government debt securities are traded on the MAE and the BYMA. Currently, all transactions relating to listed corporate and government debt securities can be affected by said trading platform. In addition, a substantial over-the-counter market exists for private trading in listed debt securities and, prior to the agreement described above, equity securities. Such trades are reported on the MAE.

Although companies may list all of their capital stock on the BYMA, in most cases the controlling shareholders retain the majority of a company’s capital stock. This results in only a relatively small percentage of most companies’ stock being available for active trading by the public on the BYMA. Even though individuals have historically constituted the largest group of investors in Argentina’s equity markets, in recent years, banks and

insurance companies have shown an interest in these markets. Argentine mutual funds, by contrast, continue to have very low participation in the market. Although 103 companies had equity securities listed on the BYMA as of December 31, 2020, the 10 most-traded companies on the exchange accounted for approximately 79% of total trading value during 2020, from a 65.2% recorded in 2019. Our shares were the first-most traded shares on the BYMA in 2020, with a 32.1% share of trading volume from an also first position of 24.2% recorded during 2019.

The Córdoba Stock Exchange is another important stock market in Argentina. Securities listed on the Córdoba Stock Exchange include both corporate equity and debt securities and government securities. Through an agreement with the BYMA, all the securities listed on the BYMA are authorized to be listed and subsequently traded on the Córdoba Stock Exchange. Thus, many transactions that originate on the Córdoba Stock Exchange relate to companies listed on the BYMA and such trades are subsequently settled in Buenos Aires.

The MAE is a self-regulated organization that is supervised by the CNV. MAE is mainly comprised by private banks, either composed by national or foreign capital, national banks, provincial banks, municipal Banks, cooperative Banks, financial companies, exchange companies and agents.

B. Market Regulations

The CNV oversees the Argentine securities markets and is responsible for authorizing public offerings of securities and supervising brokers, public companies and mutual funds, among others. Argentine pension funds and insurance companies are regulated by separate Argentine government agencies, while financial institutions are regulated mainly by the BCRA. The Argentine securities markets are regulated by the CNV according with the provisions of Capital Markets Law No 26,831.

In compliance with the provisions of Law No.20,643 and the Decrees No.659/74 and No.2220/80, most debt and equity securities traded on the exchanges and the MAE must, be deposited in Caja de Valores S.A., which is the central securities depositary of Argentina, that provides deposit facilities for securities and mainly acts as a transfer and paying agent in connection therewith. It also handles settlement of securities transactions and operates the computerized exchange information system.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Argentine regulations, there may be less publicly available information about Argentine companies than is regularly published by or about companies in the U.S. and other countries. However, the CNV has taken steps to strengthen disclosure and regulatory standards for the Argentine securities market, including the issuance of regulations prohibiting insider trading and requiring insiders to report on their ownership of securities, with associated penalties for non-compliance.

In order to offer securities to the public in Argentina, an issuer must meet certain requirements of the CNV regarding assets operating history, management and other matters, and only securities for which an application for a public offering has been approved by the CNV may be listed on the corresponding stock exchange. This approval does not imply any kind of certification of assurance related to the merits of the quality of the securities, or the solvency of the issuer. Issuers of listed securities are required to file unaudited quarterly financial statements and audited annual financial statements, as well as various other periodic reports, with the CNV and the corresponding stock exchange.

Securities can currently be freely traded on the Argentine markets, however, the Argentine government has periodically imposed certain restrictions regarding access by residents and non-residents to the local MLC and to transfers of foreign exchange abroad. See Item 4. “Information on the Company—Government Regulation—Foreign Exchange Market”.

On June 2019, the CNV passed Resolution No. 797/19 (as amended by Resolution No. 873), aimed to strengthen the good practices in corporate governance, emphasizing the principles established by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”) and requiring a stronger commitment from the listing companies regarding the compliance with corporate governance.

The Capital Markets Law (Law No. 26,831), which became effective on January 2013, replacing Law No.17,811 and Decree No. 677/01, regulates the capital markets transactions as well as the supervision, control and disciplinary and regulatory powers of the CNV. The Capital Markets Law is supplemented by the CNV Rules.

On May 9, 2018, the Argentine Congress passed Law No. 27,440 (Ley de Financiamiento Productivo) with the goal of developing the Argentine domestic capital markets. The Law No. 27,440 updates and amends the Argentine Capital Markets Law, the Mutual Funds Law and the Argentine Negotiable Obligations Law, among others. Such Law No. 27,440 sets forth certain regulations that are intended to provide SMEs with better access to financial instruments and to create an electronic credit invoice for MSMEs that replace the receipts from sales and credit invoices. Also, Law No. 27,440 improves the regulatory framework by introducing the new products for SMEs, such as discounts for access to the financial market and the amendment of certain tax provisions, regulations relating to derivatives and the promotion of a financial inclusion program.

Item 10.

Additional Information

A. Share Capital.

Not applicable.

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

Description of Our Bylaws

General

Set forth below is a brief description of certain provisions of our bylaws and Argentine law and regulations with regard to our capital stock. Your rights as a holder of our capital stock are subject to Argentine corporate law, which may differ from the corporate laws of other jurisdictions. This description is not purported to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to our bylaws, Argentine law and the rules of the BYMA, the Córdoba Stock Exchange as well as the CNV. A copy of our bylaws has been filed with and can be examined at the CNV in Buenos Aires and the SEC in Washington, D.C.

We were incorporated on September 14, 1999, as a stock corporation under the laws of Argentina and registered on September 30, 1999, with the IGJ, under corporate registration number 14,519 of Book 7, Volume of Stock Corporations. Our domicile is in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Under our bylaws, our duration is until June 30, 2100 and we are exclusively a financial and investment company (as stated in “Chapter 2. Purpose. Article 3.” of our bylaws). This duration may be extended by resolution taken at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting.

Our bylaws do not contain any provision governing the ownership threshold above which shareholder ownership must be disclosed.

Outstanding Capital Stock

Our total subscribed and paid-in share capital as of December 31, 2020, amounted to Ps.1,474,692,091, composed of class A shares and class B shares, each with a par value of Ps.1. The following table presents the number of our shares outstanding as of December 31, 2020, and the voting interest that the shares represent.

   December 31, 2020 

Shares

  Number of Shares   % of Capital
Stock
  % of Voting
Rights
 

Class A Shares

   281,221,650    19.07  54.09

Class B Shares

   1,193,470,441    80.93  45.91
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   1,474,692,091    100  100
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Registration and Transfer

The class B shares are book-entry common shares held through Caja de Valores. Caja de Valores maintains a stock registry for us and only those persons listed in such registry will be recognized as our shareholders. Caja de Valores periodically delivers to us a list of the shareholders as at a certain date.

The class B shares are transferable on the books of Caja de Valores. Caja de Valores records all transfers in our registry. Within 10 days of any such transfer, Caja de Valores is required to confirm the registration of transfer with the transferor.

Voting Rights

At shareholders’ meetings, each class A share is entitled to five votes and each class B share is entitled to one vote. However, class A shares are entitled to only one vote in certain matters, such as:

a merger or spin-off in which we are not the surviving corporation, unless the acquirer’s shares are authorized to be publicly offered or listed on any stock exchange;

a transformation in our legal corporate form;

a fundamental change in our corporate purpose;

a change of our domicile to outside Argentina;

a voluntary termination of our public offering or listing authorization;

our continuation following a delisting or a mandatory cancellation of our public offering or listing authorization;

a total or partial recapitalization of our statutory capital following a loss; and

the appointment of syndics.

All distinctions between our class A shares and our class B shares will be eliminated upon the occurrence of any of the following change of control events:

EBA Holding sells 100% of its class A shares;

EBA Holding sells a portion of our class A shares to a third person who, when aggregating all our class A shares with our class B shares owned by such person, if any, obtains 50% plus one vote of our total votes; or

the current shareholders of EBA Holding sell shares of EBA Holding that will allow the buyer to exercise more than 50% of the voting power of EBA Holding at any general shareholders’ meeting of EBA Holding shareholders, except for transfers to other current shareholders of EBA Holding or to their heirs or their legal successors or to entities owned by any of them.

Limited Liability of Shareholders

Shareholders are not liable for our obligations. Shareholders’ liability is limited to the payment of the shares for which they subscribe. However, shareholders who have a conflict of interest with us and do not abstain from voting may be held liable for damages to us. Also, shareholders who willfully or negligently vote in favor of a resolution that is subsequently declared void by a court as contrary to Argentine law or our bylaws may be held liable for damages to us or to third parties, including other shareholders, resulting from such resolutions.

Directors

Our bylaws provide that the Board of Directors shall be composed by at least three and at most nine members, as decided at a general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. To be appointed to our Board of Directors, such person must have been presented as a candidate by shareholders who represent at least 10% of our voting rights, at least three business days before the date the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting is to be held. Our bylaws do not state an age limit over which the directors cannot serve on our board.

At each annual shareholders’ meeting, the term of one third of the members of our Board of Directors (no fewer than three directors) expires and their successors are elected to serve for a term of three years. The shareholders’ meeting shall have the power to fix a shorter period (one or two years) for the terms of office of one, several or all the directors. This system of electing directors is intended to help maintain the continuity of the board. Alternate directors replace directors until the following general ordinary shareholders’ meeting is held. Directors may also be replaced by alternate directors if a director will be absent from a board meeting. The Board of Directors is required to meet at least once every month and anytime any one of the directors or syndics so requests.

Our bylaws state that the Board of Directors may decide to appoint an executive committee and/or a delegate director.

Our bylaws do not provide for any arrangements or understandings with major shareholders, customers, suppliers or others, pursuant to which any person referred to in this annual report was selected as a director or member of senior management.

Additionally, pursuant to our bylaws, any borrowing powers on behalf of the Company are granted to our Board of Directors. Our Board of Directors has the power to delegate these borrowing powers to our directors through a power of attorney and currently certain of our directors have powers of attorney to negotiate the terms of and borrow money on behalf of the Company. Furthermore, as stated by our bylaws, the chairman of our Board of Directors is also the legal representative of the Company. Although our bylaws do not expressly address a director’s power to vote on proposals, arrangements or contracts in which the director has a material interest, pursuant to customary Argentine business practice and certain tenants of Argentine corporate law, our directors do not vote on proposals, arrangements or contracts in which the director has a material interest.

Appointment of Directors and Syndics by Cumulative Voting

The Corporations Law provides for the use of cumulative voting to enable minority shareholders to appoint members of the board of directors and syndics. Upon the completion of certain requirements, shareholders are entitled to appoint up to one third of the vacancies to be filled on the board of directors by cumulative voting. Each shareholder voting cumulatively has the number of votes resulting from multiplying the number of votes to which such shareholder would normally be entitled by the number of vacancies to be filled. Such shareholder may apportion his votes or cast all such votes for one or a number of candidates not exceeding one third of the vacancies to be filled.

Compensation of Directors

The Corporations Law and the CNV establish rules regarding the compensation of directors. The maximum amount of aggregate compensation that the members of the board of directors may receive, including salaries and other compensation for the performance of permanent technical and administrative services, may not exceed 25.0% of profits of each fiscal year. This maximum amount shall be limited to 5.0% when no dividends are distributed to the shareholders and shall be increased proportionately to the dividend distribution until the 25.0% limit is reached when all profits are distributed.

The Corporations Law provides that aggregate director compensation may exceed the maximum percentage of computable profit in any one year when the company’s profits are non-existent or too small as to allow payment of a reasonable compensation to board members which have been engaged in technical or administrative services to the company, provided that such proposal is described in the notice of the agenda for the ordinary shareholders’ meeting and is approved by a majority of shareholders present at such shareholders’ meeting.

In addition to the above, our bylaws establish that best practices and national and international market standards regarding directors with similar duties and responsibilities shall be considered when determining the compensation of board members.

Syndics

Our bylaws, in accordance with Argentine law, provide for the maintenance of a supervisory committee whose members are three permanent syndics and three alternate syndics. Syndics are elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected. Alternate syndics replace permanent syndics in case of absence. For the appointment of syndics, each of our class A shares and class B shares has only one vote. Fees for syndics are established by the shareholders at the annual ordinary shareholders’ meeting. Their function is to oversee the management of the company, to control the legality of the actions of the board of directors, to attend all board of directors’ meetings, to attend all shareholders’ meetings, to prepare reports for the shareholders on the financial statements with their opinion, and to provide information regarding the company to shareholders that represent at least 2% of the capital stock. Syndics’ liabilities are joint and several and unlimited for the non-fulfillment of their duties. They are also jointly and severally liable, together with the members of the board of directors, if the proper fulfillment of their duties as syndics would have avoided the damage or the losses caused by the members of the board of directors.

Shareholders’ Meetings

Shareholders’ meetings may be ordinary meetings or extraordinary meetings. An annual ordinary shareholders’ meeting is required to be held in each fiscal year to consider the matters outlined in Article 234 of the Corporations Law, including, among others:

approval of the financial statements and general performance of the management for the preceding fiscal year;

appointment and remuneration of directors and members of the supervisory committee;

allocation of profits; and

any other matter the board of directors decides to submit to the shareholders’ meeting concerning the Company’s business administration. Matters which may be discussed at these or other ordinary meetings include resolutions regarding the responsibility of directors and members of the supervisory committee, as well as capital increases and the issuance of notes.

Extraordinary shareholders’ meetings may be called at any time to discuss matters beyond the competence of the ordinary meeting, including but not limited to amendments to the bylaws, matters related to the liquidation of a company, limitation of the shareholders’ preemptive rights to subscribe new shares, issuance of bonds and debentures, transformation of the corporate form, a merger into another company and spin-offs, early winding-up, change of the company’s domicile to outside Argentina, total or partial repayment of capital for losses, and a substantial change in the corporate purpose set forth in the bylaws.

Shareholders’ meetings may be convened by the board of directors or by the syndics. A shareholder or group of shareholders holding at least 5.0% in the aggregate of our capital stock may request the board of directors or the syndics to convene a general shareholders’ meeting to discuss the matters indicated by the shareholder.

Once a meeting has been convened with an agenda, the agenda limits the matters to be decided upon at such meeting and no other matters may be decided upon.

Additionally, our bylaws provide that any shareholder holding at least 5% in aggregate of our capital stock may present, in writing, to the Board of Directors, before February 28 of each year, proposals of items to be included in the agenda at the annual general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. The Board of Directors is not obligated to include such items in the agenda.

Class B shares represented by ADSs will be voted or caused to be voted by the Depositary in accordance with instructions of the holders of such ADSs. In the event instructions are not received from the holder, the Depositary shall give a discretionary proxy for the shares represented by such ADSs to a person designated by us.

Notice of each shareholders’ meeting must be published in the Official Gazette, and in a widely circulated newspaper in the country’s territory, at least twenty days prior to the meeting but not more than forty-five days prior to the date on which the meeting is to be held. The board of directors will determine the appropriate publication of notices outside Argentina in accordance with the requirements of the jurisdictions and exchanges on which our shares are traded. In order to attend a meeting and to be listed on the meeting registry, shareholders must submit evidence of their book-entry share account held at Caja de Valores at least three business days prior to the scheduled meeting date without counting the meeting day.

The quorum for ordinary meetings consists of a majority of stock entitled to vote, and resolutions may be adopted by the affirmative vote of 50% plus one vote (an “absolute majority”) of the votes present whether in person or participating via electronic means of communication. If no quorum is present at the first meeting, a second meeting may be called at which the shareholders present, whatever their number, shall constitute a quorum. Resolutions are to be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. The second meeting may be convened to be held one hour later on the same day as the first meeting had been called for, provided that it is an ordinary shareholders’ meeting, or within 30 days of the date for which the first ordinary meeting was called.

The quorum for extraordinary shareholders’ meetings consists of 60% of stock entitled to vote, and resolutions may be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. If no quorum is present at the first meeting, a second meeting may be called at which the shareholders present, whatever their number, shall constitute a quorum. Resolutions are to be adopted by an absolute majority of the votes present. The second meeting has to be convened to be held within 30 days of the date for which the first extraordinary meeting was called, and the notice must be published for three days, at least eight days before the date of the second meeting. Some special matters require a favorable vote of the majority of all the stock holding voting rights, the class A shares being granted the right to only one vote each. The special matters are described in “—Voting Rights” above.

Dividends

Dividends may be lawfully paid and declared only out of our retained earnings representing the profit realized and liquid on our operations and investments reflected in our annual financial statements, as approved at our annual general shareholders’ meeting. No profits may be distributed until prior losses are covered. Dividends paid on our class A shares and class B shares will equal one another on a per-share basis.

As required by the Corporations Law, 5% of our net income is allocated to a legal reserve until the reserve equals 20% of our outstanding capital. Dividends may not be paid if the legal reserve has been impaired. The legal reserve is not available for distribution to shareholders.

Our Board of Directors submits our financial statements for the previous fiscal year, together with reports prepared by our supervisory committee, to our shareholders for approval at the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. The shareholders, upon approving the financial statements, determine the allocation of our net income.

Our Board of Directors is allowed by law and by our bylaws to decide to pay anticipated dividends on the basis of a balance sheet especially prepared for purposes of paying such dividends.

Under BYMA regulations, cash dividends must be paid to shareholders within 10 days of the shareholders’ meeting approving said dividend. Payment of dividends in shares requires authorization from the CNV, the BYMA and the Córdoba Stock Exchange, whose authorizations must be requested within 10 business days after the shareholders’ meeting approving the dividend. We must make a distribution of the shares available to shareholders not later than three months after receiving authorization to do so from the CNV.

Shareholders may no longer claim the payment of dividends from us after three years have elapsed from the date on which the relevant dividends were made available to such shareholders.

Capital Increases and Reductions

We may increase our capital upon resolution of the general ordinary shareholders’ meeting. All capital increases must be reported to the CNV, published in the Official Gazette and registered with the Public Registry of Commerce. Capital reductions may be voluntary or mandatory. A voluntary reduction of capital must be approved by an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting after the corresponding authorization by the BYMA, the Córdoba Stock Exchange and the CNV and may take place only after notice of such reduction has been published and creditors have been given an opportunity to obtain payment or guarantees for their claims or attachment. A reduction of capital is mandatory when losses have exceeded reserves and more than 50% of the share capital of the company.

Preemptive Rights

Under Argentine law, it is mandatory that a shareholder of ordinary shares of any given class have preemptive rights, proportional to the number of shares he or she owns, to subscribe for shares of capital stock of the same class or of any other class if the new subscription offer does not include all classes of shares. Shareholders may only decide to suspend or limit preemptive rights by supermajority at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting and only in exceptional cases. Shareholders may waive their preemptive rights only on a case-by-case basis.

In the event of an increase in our capital, holders of class A shares and class B shares have a preemptive right to subscribe for any issue of class B shares in an amount sufficient to maintain the proportion of capital then held by them. Holders of class A shares are entitled to subscribe for class B shares because no further class A shares carrying five votes each are allowed to be issued in the future. Under Argentine law, companies are prohibited from issuing stock with multiple voting rights after they have been authorized to make a public offering of securities.

Preemptive rights are exercisable following the last publication of the notification to shareholders of the opportunity to exercise preemptive rights in the Official Gazette and an Argentine newspaper of wide circulation for a period of 30 days, provided that such period may be reduced to no less than 10 days if so approved by an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting.

Shareholders who have exercised their preemptive rights and indicated their intention to exercise additional preemptive rights are entitled to additional preemptive rights (“accretion rights”), on a pro rata basis, with respect to any unsubscribed shares, in accordance with the terms of the Corporations Law. Class B shares not subscribed for by shareholders through the exercise of their preemptive or accretion rights may be offered to third parties.

Holders of ADSs may be restricted in their ability to exercise preemptive rights if a registration statement relating to such rights has not been filed or is not effective or if an exemption from registration is not available.

Appraisal Rights

Whenever our shareholders approve:

a merger or spin-off in which we are not the surviving corporation, unless the acquirer’s shares are authorized to be publicly offered or listed on any stock exchange,

a transformation in our legal corporate form,

a fundamental change in our corporate purpose,

a change of our domicile to outside Argentina,

a voluntary termination of our public offering or listing authorization,

our continuation following a delisting or a mandatory cancellation of our public offering or listing authorization, or

a total or partial recapitalization of our statutory capital following a loss,

any shareholder that voted against such action or did not attend the relevant meeting may exercise its right to have its shares canceled in exchange for the book value of its shares, determined on the basis of our latest balance sheet prepared in accordance with Argentine laws and regulations, provided that such shareholder exercises its appraisal rights within the periods set forth below.

There is, however, doubt as to whether holders of ADSs, will be able to exercise appraisal rights with respect to class B shares represented by ADSs.

Appraisal rights must be exercised within five days following the adjournment of the meeting at which the resolution was adopted, in the event that the dissenting shareholder voted against such resolutions, or within 15 days following such adjournment if the dissenting shareholder did not attend such meeting and can prove that he was a shareholder on the date of such meeting. In the case of a merger or spin-off involving an entity authorized to make a public offering of its shares, appraisal rights may not be exercised if the shares to be received as a result of such transaction are listed on any stock exchange. Appraisal rights are extinguished if the resolution giving rise to such rights is overturned at another shareholders’ meeting held within 75 days of the meeting at which the resolution was adopted.

Payment of the appraisal rights must be made within one year from the date of the shareholders’ meeting at which the resolution was adopted, except if the resolution was to delist our capital stock, in which case the payment period is reduced to 60 days from the date of the related resolution.

Preferred Stock

According to the Corporations Law and our bylaws, an ordinary shareholders’ meeting may approve the issuance of preferred stock. Such preferred stock may have a fixed dividend, cumulative or not cumulative, with or without additional participation in our profits, as decided by shareholders at a shareholders’ meeting when determining the conditions of the issuance. They may also have other preferences, such as a preference in the event of our liquidation.

The holders of preferred stock shall not be entitled to voting rights. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that no dividends are paid to such holders for their preferred stock, and for as long as such dividends are not paid, the holders of preferred stock shall be entitled to voting rights. Holders of preferred stock are also entitled to vote on certain special matters, such as the transformation of the corporate form, a merger into another company and spin-offs (when we are not the surviving entity and the surviving entity is not listed on any stock exchange), early winding-up, a change of our domicile to outside Argentina, total or partial repayment of capital for losses and a substantial change in the corporate purpose set forth in our bylaws or in the event our preferred stock is traded on stock exchanges and such trading is suspended or terminated.

Conflicts of Interest

As a protection to minority shareholders, under the Corporations Law, a shareholder is required to abstain from voting on any resolution in which its direct or indirect interests conflict with that of or are different than ours. In the event such shareholder votes on such resolution, and such resolution would not have been approved without such shareholders’ vote, the resolution may be declared void by a court and such shareholder may be liable for damages to the company as well as to any third party, including other shareholders.

Redemption or Repurchase

According to the Capital Markets Law, a stock corporation may acquire the shares issued by it, provided that the public offering and listing thereof has been authorized, subject to the following terms and conditions and those set forth by the CNV. The above-mentioned conditions are: (a) the shares to be acquired shall be fully paid up; (b) there shall be a resolution signed by the board of directors to such effect; (c) the acquisition shall be made out of net profits or free or voluntary reserves; and (d) the total amount of shares acquired by the company, including previously acquired shares, shall not exceed 10% of the capital stock or such lower percentage determined by the CNV. The shares acquired by the company in excess of such limit shall be disposed of within the term of 90 days after the date of the acquisition originating such excess.

The shares acquired by the company shall be disposed of by the company within the maximum term of three years counted as from the date of acquisition thereof. Upon disposing of the shares, the company shall make a preemptive offer thereof. Such an offer will not be obligatory if the shares are used in connection with a compensation plan or program for the company’s employees or if the shares are distributed among all shareholders pro rata their shareholdings. If shareholders do not exercise, in whole or in part, their preemptive rights, the sale shall be made at a stock exchange.

Liquidation

Upon our liquidation, one or more liquidators may be appointed to wind up our affairs. If no such appointment is made, our Board of Directors will act as liquidator. All outstanding common shares will be entitled to participate equally in any distribution upon liquidation. In the event of liquidation, in Argentina and in any other country, our assets shall first be applied to satisfy our debts and liabilities.

Other Provisions

Our bylaws are governed by Argentine law and the ownership of any kind of our shares represents acceptance of our bylaws and submission to the exclusive jurisdiction of the ordinary commercial courts of Buenos Aires for any claim or dispute related to us, our shareholders, directors and members of the supervisory committee.

C. Material Contracts

Bonds

During the 2016 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued subordinated Class II notes due 2026 in an aggregate principal amount of US$250 million. The proceeds of this issuance were used to redeem the Bank’s outstanding subordinated notes due 2019. During the 2018 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Class V Series I notes due 2020 and Series II notes due 2020 in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.4,209 million and Ps.2,032 million, respectively. During the 2020 fiscal year, Banco Galicia issued Class VIII in an aggregate principal amount of Ps.1,589 million.

The pricing supplements for the issuances described above set forth certain covenants Banco Galicia must comply with for the benefit of the holders of such notes, which include, among others, restrictions on mergers, acquisitions or dispositions (subject to certain exceptions) and restrictions on the incurrence of additional debt.

Loans

In May 2016, the IFC granted Banco Galicia a credit line in an amount of up to US$130 million. As of May 2018, Banco Galicia has drawn all of the committed amount and the loan was amortized for US$72 million.

On March 23, 2018, Banco Galicia announced the issuance of a green bond to raise US$100 million in order to expand its loan program for environmental efficiency projects. This is the first green bond issued by a private financial institution in Argentina, marking Banco Galicia’s commitment to finance projects with a positive impact on the environment. The bonds were underwritten on June 21, 2018 by the IFC. To date, loans for US$53 million were granted.

D. Exchange Controls

For a description of the exchange controls that would affect us or the holders of our securities, see Item 4. “Information on the Company—Government Regulation—Foreign Exchange Market”.

E. Taxation

The following is a summary of the principal Argentine and U.S. federal income tax consequences arising from the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our class B shares and ADSs. This summary is based on Argentine and U.S. federal income tax laws, as well as the regulations in effect as of the date of this annual report. Further, this summary is subject to any subsequent changes in laws and regulations that may come into effect after

this date. Any change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued validity of this summary. This summary does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion with respect to the transactions that the holders of our class B shares or ADSs may enter into. This summary is only a brief description of certain (but not all) aspects of the Argentine and U.S. federal income tax systems, as they relate to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our class B shares and ADSs. In addition, although the Company believes that the following summary is a reasonable interpretation of the current taxation rules and regulations, Grupo Galicia cannot assure that the applicable authorities or tribunals will agree with all, or any of the tax consequences outlined below. Currently, there is no tax treaty between the United States and Argentina.

Argentine Taxes

Law No.26,893, enacted on September 12, 2013 and published in the Official Gazette on September 23, 2013, introduced changes to Income Tax Law No.20,628, including the derogation of Section 78 of Decree No.2284/1991; which provides that foreign holders with no permanent establishment in Argentina are exempt from paying income tax on the capital gains arising from the sale or other disposition of shares or ADSs.

Decree No.2334/2013 has regulated Law No.26,893. This decree provides that changes introduced by Law No.26,893 are effective from the date of publication of such law in the Official Gazette and apply to taxable events carried out from such date onwards.

Law No.27,430 enacted on December 27, 2017 and published in the Official Gazette on December 29, 2017, and Law No. 27,541 published in the Official Gazette on December 23,2019 introduced several changes to Income Tax Law No.20,628. The principal change resulting from such law is a corporate income tax rate reduction in two phases. For fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2018 until December 31, 2021, the government has reduced the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 30%. After December 31, 2021, the corporate tax rate will be further reduced to 25%.

This reform includes additional changes, such as the confirmation that ADRs and ADSs generate Argentine-sourced income. Non- residents, however, will be exempted from the current 15% capital gains tax on the sale of ADRs or ADSs if they reside in a jurisdiction having an exchange of information agreement with Argentina or if these invested funds come from a cooperating jurisdiction.

Taxation of Dividends

As from the effectiveness of Law No. 27,430 and Law No. 27,541, on December 27, 2017 and December 23, 2019 dividends and distributions (other than stock dividends) made by local entities to individuals, undivided estates, and foreign entities are subject to a withholding tax at a rate of 7% (while the corporate income tax is 30%) and at a rate of 13% beginning on January 1, 2022. Thus, the combined rate on dividend/profit distribution would remain around the current 35% rate, as Argentina has not levied a withholding tax on dividends or branch profits, since it eliminated the same in 2016.

Decree No.1170/2018 provides for further guidance on Law No.27,430. This decree provides that dividend payments on ADSs or ordinary shares, whether in cash, property, or stock, would be subject to Argentine withholding tax and the exemption referred to in the last paragraph of “Argentine Taxes” above shall not apply.

Equalization Tax

There is a specific rule under which a 35% tax (“equalization tax”) will be imposed on certain dividends approved by shareholders. The equalization tax will be applied only to the extent that distributions of dividends exceed the taxable income of the company increased by non-taxable dividends received by the distributing company in prior years and reduced by Argentine income tax paid by the distributing company.

The equalization tax will be imposed as a withholding tax on the shareholder receiving the dividend. Dividend distributions made in kind (other than cash) will be subject to the same tax rules as cash dividends. Stock dividends are not subject to Argentine taxation.

In addition, the foregoing tax reforms abolished the equalization tax for profits generated beginning January 1, 2018. Such equalization tax is a withholding tax levied at a rate of 35% on dividend distributions in excess of tax earnings that would remain applicable for the stock of non-distributed earnings and profits as of December 31, 2017.

Taxation of Capital Gains

In accordance with Law No.27,430 capital gains derived by non-resident individuals or foreign companies from the sale, exchange or other disposition of ADSs or class B shares are subject to the following regulations:

Non-residents continue to be exempted from tax on capital gains arising from the sale of shares in publicly traded companies, if the shares are traded on the BASE. In accordance with Law No.27,541 the exemption will also apply if the securities are traded in stock or securities markets authorized by the (CNV). The benefits will be applied to foreign beneficiaries as long as they do not reside in non-cooperative jurisdictions or the invested funds do not come from a non-cooperative jurisdiction.

Transfer of Argentine securities that occurred after September 23, 2013 triggered taxation on a retroactive basis, as the suspension of the rule that called for the tax was lifted. The tax will not apply to sales made through stock exchanges if the tax had not been withheld.

Indirect transfers of Argentine assets (including shares) will be taxable, if (i) the value of the Argentine assets exceed 30% of the transaction’s overall value; and (ii) the equity interest sold (in the foreign entity) exceeds 10%. The tax will also be due if any of these thresholds were met during the 12-month period prior to the sale. The indirect transfer of Argentine assets will only be subject to tax if these assets are acquired after January 1, 2018. Transactions involving indirect transfers of Argentine assets within the same economic group would also not trigger taxation, provided the requirements set by regulations have been met. Decree No.862/2019 and General Resolution No.4227/2018, provide that the seller, and not the buyer, is the party responsible for withholding the tax. The regulation has established a new mechanism regulating how non-resident sellers should pay the tax on the capital gain for transactions that have taken place on or after January 1, 2018. In summary, the non-resident seller should pay the tax directly through an international wire transfer unless there is a local withholding agent (i.e., local buyer or local custodial institution) involved in the payment.

Transfer Taxes: no Argentine transfer taxes are applicable on the sale or transfer of ADSs or class B shares.

Personal Assets Tax

Individuals domiciled and undivided estates located in Argentina or abroad will be subject to an annual tax in respect of assets located in Argentina and abroad. Applicable wealth tax rates and minimum non-taxable asset values for the general taxpayer regime are replaced with effect as of fiscal year 2019 by Law No.27,480 and Law No. 27.541. The following is the new scheme:

 

Fiscal year

Tax rate

Exempt Minimum

Tax rateExempt Minimum

2019 onwards

Ps. 2,000,000

2019 onwards

*

Ps.2,000,000


*Taxe Rate (In pesos except percentages)

 

Total Value of Assets

 

 

Flat Tax

 

 

More %

 

 

Taxation over the excess of the amount

 

Over Ps.

 

 

Up to the amount

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.25

 

 

 

 

 

3,000,000

 

 

 

18,000,000

 

 

 

7,500

 

 

 

0.50

 

 

 

3,000,000

 

 

18,000,000

 

 

Onward

 

 

 

82,500

 

 

 

0.75

 

 

 

18,000,000

 

Individuals domiciled abroad will pay the tax only in respect of the assets they hold in Argentina. In the case of individuals domiciled abroad, the tax will be paid by the individuals or entities domiciled in Argentina which, as of December 31 of each year, hold the joint ownership, possession, use, enjoyment, deposit, safekeeping, custody, administration or tenure of the assets located in Argentina and subject to the tax belonging to the individuals domiciled abroad. When the direct ownership of notes, government securities and certain other investments, except shares issued by companies ruled by the Corporations Law, are part of companies domiciled abroad in countries that do not enforce registration systems for private securities (with the exception of insurance companies, open-end investment funds, pension funds or banks and financial entities with head offices in countries that have adopted the international banking supervision standards laid down by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision) or that pursuant to their bylaws, charter, documents or the applicable regulatory framework, have as their principal activity investing outside of the jurisdiction of their organization or domicile, or are generally restricted from doing business in their country of incorporation, it will be assumed, without admission of any proof to the contrary, that these assets belong ultimately to individuals and therefore the system for paying the tax for such individuals domiciled abroad applies to them.

An exception pursuant to a tax reform was published in the Official Gazette as Law No.25,585, which went into effect on December 31, 2002. This tax reform introduced a mechanism to collect the personal assets tax on shares issued by companies ruled by the Corporations Law, which ownership belongs to individuals domiciled in Argentina or abroad, and companies or entities domiciled abroad. In the case of companies or entities domiciled abroad, it will be assumed, without admitting any proof to the contrary, that these shares ultimately belong to individuals domiciled abroad.

The tax was assessed and paid by those companies ruled by the Corporations Law at the rate of 0.5% on the value of the shares or equity interest. Since fiscal year 2016, after amendments introduced by Law No.27,260, the tax rate applicable to participations in domestic entities has been reduced from 0.50%

*Tax Rate (In pesos except percentages)

 

Total Value of Assets

   Flat Tax   More %   Taxation over the excess of the amount 

Over Ps.

  Up to the amount             
—     3.000.000    —      0,50    —   
3.000.001   6.500.000    15.000    0,75    3.000.000 
6.500.001   18.000.000    41.250    1,00    6.500.000 
18.000.000   Onward    156.250    1,25    18.000.000 

Individuals domiciled abroad will pay the tax only in respect of the assets they hold in Argentina. In the case of individuals domiciled abroad, the tax will be paid by the individuals or entities domiciled in Argentina which, as of December 31 of each year, hold the joint ownership, possession, use, enjoyment, deposit, safekeeping,

custody, administration or tenure of the assets located in Argentina and subject to the tax belonging to the individuals domiciled abroad. When the direct ownership of notes, government securities and certain other investments, except shares issued by companies ruled by the Corporations Law, are part of companies domiciled abroad in countries that do not enforce registration systems for private securities (with the exception of insurance companies, open-end investment funds, pension funds or banks and financial entities with head offices in countries that have adopted the international banking supervision standards laid down by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision) or that pursuant to their bylaws, charter, documents or the applicable regulatory framework, have as their principal activity investing outside of the jurisdiction of their organization or domicile, or are generally restricted from doing business in their country of incorporation, it will be assumed, without admission of any proof to the contrary, that these assets belong ultimately to individuals and therefore the system for paying the tax for such individuals domiciled abroad applies to them.

An exception pursuant to a tax reform was published in the Official Gazette as Law No.25,585, which went into effect on December 31, 2002. This tax reform introduced a mechanism to collect the personal assets tax on shares issued by companies ruled by the Corporations Law, which ownership belongs to individuals domiciled in Argentina or abroad, and companies or entities domiciled abroad. In the case of companies or entities domiciled abroad, it will be assumed, without admitting any proof to the contrary, that these shares ultimately belong to individuals domiciled abroad.

The tax was assessed and paid by those companies ruled by the Corporations Law at the rate of 0.5% on the value of the shares or equity interest. The valuation of the shares, whether listed or not, must be made according to their proportional equity value. These companies may eventually seek reimbursement from the direct owner of the shares, in respect of any amounts paid to the Argentine tax authorities as a personal asset tax. Grupo Financiero Galicia has sought reimbursement for the amount paid corresponding to December 31, 2002. The Board of Directors submitted the decision on how to proceed with respect to fiscal year 2003 to the annual shareholders’ meeting held on April 22, 2004. At that meeting, our shareholders voted to suspend all claims on our shareholders for any amount unpaid for fiscal year 2002 and to have the Company absorb the amounts due for fiscal year 2003 onward, when not withheld from dividends.

Other Taxes

There are no Argentine federal inheritance, succession or gift taxes applicable to the ownership, transfer or disposition of ADSs or class B shares. There are no Argentine stamps, issue, registration or similar taxes or duties payable by holders of ADSs or class B shares.

Tax measures related to Covid-19

Tax, Trade & Regulatory

General Tax Measures

On March 19, 2020, the tax authorities established that the period between March 18, 2020 and March 31, 2020 will not be considered in order to meet administrative obligations with the AFIP. This measure does not modify or postpone any due date for the tax determination or payments.

On April 2, 2020, aligned with the lockdown extension until Monday April 27, the tax authorities defined as administrative holidays days between March 19 and April 26 for procedural purposes. Similar extensions were implemented until November 29,2020.

Indirect Tax (Law 25.413 -Tax on Bank Debits and Credits)

On March 20, 2020 the Government approved a reduction in the tax rate from 0.6% to 0.25% for financial transactions on deposits and withdrawals from Argentine bank accounts and a reduction from 1.2% to 0.5% for other transactions; both reductions, for employers in the health care industry (i.e., diagnosis services, health insurance and pre-paid medicine companies and hospitals, among others) during a 90-day period. Currently, these measures are in effect until the end of March 2021.

Other taxes

The tax authority determined the deadline for e-filings broadly was expanded until April 30, 2021.

Tax reporting

On May 15, 2020, through General Resolution 4717/2020, transfer pricing filings (including complementary annual study) were postponed to August 2020 -for fiscal years ending between December 2018 to November 2019- and postponed to October 2020 -for fiscal years ending between December 2019 to April 2020- (the exact due date depends on the Tax ID’s last digit).

Workforce: Individual and Employment Taxes

The due date for the voluntary repatriation of funds (in order not to be subject to an incremental tax rate on assets located abroad) was postponed from March 31 to April 30, 2020. Also, the due date for the payment established for those not adhering to the repatriation of funds was postponed from April 1 to May 6, 2020.

On March 25, 2020, the Labor, Employment & Social Security Ministry issued Resolution No. 219, which established that employees who could not work from home during the lockdown would be relieved from paying the employer and employee contributions due to the Integrated Social Security System. The Resolution also established that employers of new hires will benefit from a 95% reduction on the contributions they have to make to the Integrated Social Security System.

On March 31, 2020, the Labor, Employment & Social Security Ministry amended Resolution No. 219, and issued Resolution No. 279, removing any relief provided from social security contributions for those employees who cannot perform their duties from their homes during the lockdown.

Deposit and Withdrawal of Class B Shares in Exchange for ADSs

No Argentine tax is imposed on the deposit or withdrawal of class B shares in exchange for ADSs.

United States Federal Income Taxes

The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of class B shares or ADSs. This summary does not purport to address all the U.S. federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to a particular holder (including consequences under the alternative minimum tax) or a decision to purchase, own or dispose of class B shares or ADSs. This summary applies only to beneficial owners of class B shares or ADSs that hold the class B shares or ADSs as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). This summary does not address tax consequences to all categories of investors, some of which (such as dealers or traders in securities or currencies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, grantor trusts, tax-exempt entities, banks and certain other financial institutions, insurance companies, persons that received class B shares or ADSs as compensation for the performance of services, persons owning (or deemed to own for U.S. federal income tax purposes) 10% or more (by voting power or value) of our shares, U.S. Holders (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the Dollar, persons that hold the class B shares or ADSs as part of a position in a “straddle” or as part of a “hedging” or “conversion” transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and individual retirement accounts and other tax deferred accounts) may be subject to special tax rules. This summary does not address the U.S. federal estate and gift tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of class B shares or ADSs. Moreover, the summary below does not address the U.S. state, local or non-U.S. income or other tax consequences of an investment in class B shares or ADSs, or any aspect of U.S. federal taxation other than income taxation

This summary (i) is based on the Code, existing, proposed and temporary United States Treasury Regulations and judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, in each case, as of the date hereof, and (ii) is based in part on representations of the Depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the Deposit Agreement and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms. All of the foregoing are subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below.

For purposes of this summary, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of class B shares or ADSs that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is (i) a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust if such trust validly elects to be treated as a United States person for U.S. federal income tax purposes or if (a) a United States court can exercise primary supervision over its administration and (b) one or more United States persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust. A “Non-U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of class B shares or ADSs that is neither a U.S. Holder nor a partnership (or other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes).

If an entity or arrangement classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds class B shares or ADSs, the tax treatment of the partnership and a partner in such partnership generally will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such a partner or partnership should consult its tax advisor as to its tax consequences of acquiring, owning and disposing of class B shares or ADSs.

Each prospective purchaser should consult its own tax advisor with respect to the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, owning and disposing of class B shares or ADSs.

Ownership of ADSs in General

In general, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, holders that are beneficial owners of ADSs will be treated as the beneficial owners of the class B shares represented by such ADSs.

The Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) has expressed concern that intermediaries in connection with depositary arrangements may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits by U.S. persons who are holders of depositary shares. Accordingly, U.S. Holders should be aware that the discussion below regarding the availability of foreign tax credits for Argentine withholding tax on dividends paid with respect to Class B shares represented by ADSs could be affected by future action taken by the IRS. The rules relating to computing foreign tax credits and deducting foreign taxes are extremely complex, and U.S. Holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of foreign tax credits with respect to any Argentine income taxes withheld from a dividend on the class B shares or ADSs.

Taxation of Distributions

Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations”, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the gross amount of distributions of cash with respect to the class B shares or ADSs (including any amounts withheld in respect of Argentine taxes) generally will, to the extent made from Grupo Financiero Galicia’s current or accumulated earnings and profits as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles, constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes. To the extent that a distribution by Grupo Financiero Galicia exceeds the amount of its earnings and profits, it will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs, and thereafter as capital gain. However, Grupo Financiero Galicia does not maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles. U.S. Holders should therefore assume that any distribution by Grupo Financiero Galicia with respect to class B shares or ADSs will be reported as ordinary dividend income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, cash dividends (including amounts withheld in respect of Argentine taxes) paid with respect to:

the class B shares generally will be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as ordinary income on the day on which the dividends are received by the U.S. Holder; or

the class B shares represented by ADSs generally will be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as ordinary income on the day on which the dividends are received by the Depositary;

and, in either case, these dividends will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations.

Dividends paid by Grupo Financiero Galicia in respect of ADSs generally will be treated as “qualified dividend income,” which is taxable to a non-corporate U.S. Holder at the reduced rate normally applicable to long-term capital gains, provided that (i) the ADSs are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (such as the NASDAQ, on which the ADSs are currently listed), (ii) in the year prior to the year in which the dividend was paid Grupo Financiero Galicia was not, and in the year in which the dividend is paid Grupo Financiero Galicia is not, a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”), and (iii) certain other requirements are met. The ADSs (but not the class B shares) may qualify as readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States as long as they are listed on the NASDAQ. See “Passive Foreign Investment Companies” below for a discussion of the PFIC rules. Dividends paid by Grupo Financiero Galicia in respect of class B shares will be subject to tax as ordinary dividend income.

In addition, the U.S. Treasury Department has indicated that it continues to consider whether detailed information reporting guidance is necessary pursuant to which holders of ADSs and intermediaries through whom such securities are held will be permitted to rely on certifications from issuers to establish that dividends are treated as qualified dividend income. However, no such detailed procedures have yet been issued and therefore Grupo Financiero Galicia is not certain that it will be able to comply with them. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of the reduced rate discussed above with respect to qualified dividend income in light of their own particular circumstances.

Dividends paid in Pesos will be included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder in an amount equal to the Dollar value of the Pesos on the date of receipt by the U.S. Holder, in the case of class B shares, or the Depositary, in the case of ADSs, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted to Dollars. Any gains or losses resulting from currency exchange fluctuations between the date the dividend payment is included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder and the date the Pesos are converted into Dollars (or otherwise disposed of) will be treated as U.S. source ordinary income or loss, as the case may be, of a U.S. Holder.

Dividends received by a U.S. Holder with respect to the class B shares or ADSs will be treated as non-U.S. source income, which may be relevant in calculating such U.S. Holder’s foreign tax credit limitation. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, Argentine tax withheld on dividends may be deducted from taxable income or credited against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific categories of income. For this purpose, dividend income with respect to class B shares or ADSs should generally constitute “passive category income”, or in the case of certain U.S. Holders, “general category income”. The rules governing the foreign tax credit are complex. Prospective holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.

Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding and Information Reporting”, a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on dividends received on class B shares or ADSs, unless such income is effectively connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States.

Taxation of Capital Gains

Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” U.S. Holders generally will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon a sale or other taxable disposition of class B shares or ADSs in an amount equal to the difference between such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs and the amount realized on their sale or other taxable disposition, in each case as determined in Dollars. In the case of a non-corporate U.S. Holder, the maximum marginal U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to such gain will be lower than the maximum marginal U.S. federal income tax rate for ordinary income (other than certain dividends) if the U.S. Holder’s holding period in the class B shares or ADSs exceeds one year at the time of the sale or exchange. Gain or loss, if any, recognized by a U.S. Holder generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Consequently, a U.S. Holder may not be able to use the foreign tax credit arising from any Argentine tax imposed on the disposition of class B shares or ADSs unless such credit can be applied (subject to applicable limitations) against tax due on other income treated as derived from non-U.S. sources. Certain limitations apply to the deductibility of capital losses for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

A U.S. Holder’s initial tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs is the Dollar value of the Pesos denominated purchase price determined on the settlement date, in the case of a cash basis U.S. Holder, or the trade date in the case of an accrual basis U.S. Holder. If the class B shares or ADSs are treated as traded on an “established securities market”, an accrual basis U.S. Holder may elect to determine the Dollar value of the cost of such class B shares or ADSs by translating the amount paid at the spot rate of exchange on the settlement date of the purchase.

With respect to the sale or exchange of class B shares or ADSs, the amount realized generally will be the Dollar value of the payment received, before reduction for any Argentine taxes withheld therefrom, determined on (i) the date of receipt of payment in the case of a cash basis U.S. Holder and (ii) the date of disposition in the case of an accrual basis U.S. Holder. If the class B shares or ADSs are treated as traded on an “established securities market”, an accrual basis taxpayer may elect to determine the Dollar value of the amount realized by translating the amount received at the spot rate of exchange on the settlement date of the sale. The election by an accrual basis U.S. Holder discussed above to use the settlement date for purposes of determining basis and the amount realized must be applied consistently from year to year and cannot be revoked without the consent of the IRS.

Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding and Information Reporting,” a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale or exchange of class B shares or ADSs unless (i) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States or (ii) in the case of gain realized by an individual Non-U.S. Holder, the Non-U.S. Holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale or exchange and certain other conditions are met.

Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations

A non-U.S. corporation will be a PFIC in any taxable year in which, after taking into account the income and assets of the corporation and certain subsidiaries pursuant to certain look-through rules, either (1) at least 75 percent of its gross income is “passive income” or (2) at least 50 percent of the average value of its gross assets is attributable to assets that produce “passive income” or are held for the production of passive income. Passive income for this purpose generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents and gains from commodities and securities transactions.

The application of the PFIC rules is unclear both generally and specifically with respect to banks. Although interest income generally is treated as passive income for this purpose, the Internal Revenue Service(the “IRS”) has issued a notice and certain proposed Treasury Regulations that exclude from passive income any income derived in the active conduct of a banking business by a qualifying foreign bank (the “Active Bank Exception”). However, the IRS notice and proposed Treasury Regulations are inconsistent in certain respects. Because final Treasury Regulations have not been issued, there can be no assurance that Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries will satisfy the Active Bank Exception for any given taxable year.

Based on certain estimates of its gross income and gross assets (which estimates are inherently imprecise), the nature of its business, and reliance on the Active Bank Exception, Grupo Financiero Galicia believes that it was not a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2020. Grupo Financiero Galicia’s status in future years will depend on its assets and activities in those years. Grupo Financiero Galicia has no reason to believe that its assets or activities will change in a manner that would cause it to be classified as a PFIC, but there can be no assurance that Grupo Financiero Galicia will not be considered a PFIC for any taxable year. If Grupo Financiero Galicia were a PFIC, a U.S. Holder of class B shares or ADSs generally would be subject to imputed interest charges and other disadvantageous tax treatment with respect to any gain from the sale or exchange of, and certain distributions with respect to, the class B shares or ADSs.

If Grupo Financiero Galicia were a PFIC, a U.S. Holder of class B shares or ADSs could make a variety of elections that may alleviate certain of the adverse tax consequences referred to above, and one of these elections may be made retroactively. However, it is expected that the conditions necessary for making certain of such elections will not apply in the case of the class B shares or ADSs. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax consequences and filing requirements that would arise if Grupo Financiero Galicia were treated as a PFIC.

Reporting Requirements

Non-corporate U.S. Holders, including individuals, that hold “specified foreign financial assets”, as defined in the Treasury Regulations (which may include class B shares or ADSs), other than in an account at a U.S. financial institution or the U.S. branch of a non-U.S. financial institution, are required to report certain information relating to such assets. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of this and any other reporting requirements on their ownership and disposition of class B shares or ADSs. Failure to comply with applicable reporting requirements could result in the imposition of substantial penalties.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

United States backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements generally apply to certain payments to certain holders of stock.

Information reporting generally will apply to payments of dividends on, and to proceeds from the sale or other taxable disposition of, class B shares or ADSs made within the United States, or by a U.S. payor or U.S. middleman, to a holder of class B shares or ADSs (other than an exempt recipient, such as a payee that is not a United States person and that provides an appropriate certification).

Payments of dividends on, or proceeds from the sale or other taxable disposition of, class B shares or ADSs within the United States, or by a U.S. payor or U.S. middleman, to a U.S. Holder (other than an exempt recipient, such as a payee that is not a United States person and that provides an appropriate certification) will be subject to backup withholding if such holder fails to furnish its correct taxpayer identification number or otherwise fails to comply with, or establish an exemption from, such backup withholding tax requirements.

The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to a holder will be allowed as a credit against the holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. Holders should consult their tax advisers about these rules and any other reporting obligations that may apply to the ownership or disposition of class B shares or ADSs.

Medicare Tax on Investment Income

Certain U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts are required to pay a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (i) the U.S. Holder’s “net investment income” for the taxable year and (ii) the excess of the U.S. Holder’s modified adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold. Net investment income includes, among other things, dividends and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of class B shares or ADSs.

THE ABOVE SUMMARIES ARE NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE A COMPLETE ANALYSIS OF ALL TAX CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF CLASS B SHARES OR ADSs. PROSPECTIVE HOLDERS SHOULD CONSULT AN INDEPENDENT TAX ADVISOR CONCERNING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES IN THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES.

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

Not applicable.

G. Statement by Experts.

Not applicable.

H. Documents on Display

We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, we file reports and other information with the SEC. These materials, including this annual report and its exhibits, may be inspected and printed or copied for a fee at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information about the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. These materials are also available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Material submitted by us can also be inspected at the offices of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. at 1735 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006-1506.

I. Subsidiary Information

For a description of subsidiary information, see Item 4. “Information on the Company”—A. “History and Development of the Company” —“History”. The valuation of the shares, whether listed or not, must be made according to their proportional equity value. These companies may eventually seek reimbursement from the direct owner of the shares, in respect of any amounts paid to the Argentine tax authorities as a personal asset tax. Grupo Financiero Galicia has sought reimbursement for the amount paid corresponding to December 31, 2002. The Board of Directors submitted the decision on how to proceed with respect to fiscal year 2003 to the annual shareholders’ meeting held on April 22, 2004. At that meeting, our shareholders voted to suspend all claims on our shareholders for any amount unpaid for fiscal year 2002 and to have the Company absorb the amounts due for fiscal year 2003 onward, when not withheld from dividends.

Pursuant to Law No.27,260, Argentine companies that have properly fulfilled their tax obligations during the two prior fiscal years to the 2016 fiscal year, and which comply with certain other requirements, may qualify for an exemption from personal asset taxes for the 2016, 2017 and 2018 fiscal years. The request for this tax exemption should be filed before March 31, 2017. Grupo Financiero Galicia filed this request. Notwithstanding, we cannot assure that in the future, Grupo Financiero Galicia can fulfill these requirements and maintain such exemption.

 

Other Taxes

There are no Argentine federal inheritance, succession or gift taxes applicable to the ownership, transfer or disposition of ADSs or class B shares. There are no Argentine stamps, issue, registration or similar taxes or duties payable by holders of ADSs or class B shares.


Deposit and Withdrawal of Class B Shares in Exchange for ADSs

No Argentine tax is imposed on the deposit or withdrawal of class B shares in exchange for ADSs.

United States Federal Income Taxes

The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of class B shares and ADSs, as their terms are set forth in the documents or the forms thereof, relating to such securities as in existence on the date hereof, but it does not purport to address all the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to purchase, own or dispose of class B shares or ADSs. This summary assumes that the class B shares or ADSs will be held as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and does not address tax consequences to all categories of investors, some of which (such as dealers or traders in securities or currencies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, grantor trusts, tax-exempt entities, banks, insurance companies, persons that received class B shares or ADSs as compensation for the performance of services, persons owning (or deemed to own for U.S. federal income tax purposes) 10% or more (by voting power or value) of our shares, U.S. Holders (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the Dollar and persons that hold the class B shares or ADSs as part of a position in a “straddle” or as part of a “hedging” or “conversion” transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes) may be subject to special tax rules. Moreover, this summary does not address the U.S. federal estate and gift or alternative minimum tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of class B shares or ADSs.

This summary (i) is based on the Code, existing, proposed and temporary United States Treasury Regulations and judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, in each case, as in effect and available on the date hereof, and (ii) is based in part on representations of the Depository and the assumption that each obligation in the Deposit Agreement and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms. All of the foregoing are subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below.

For purposes of this summary, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of class B shares or ADSs that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is (i) a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust if such trust validly elects to be treated as a United States person for U.S. federal income tax purposes or if (a) a United States court can exercise primary supervision over its administration and (b) one or more United States persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust. A “Non-U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of class B shares or ADSs that is neither a U.S. Holder nor a partnership (or other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes).

If a partnership (or any other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds class B shares or ADSs, the tax treatment of the partnership and a partner in such partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such a partner or partnership should consult its tax advisor as to its tax consequences.

Each prospective purchaser should consult its own tax advisor with respect to the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, owning and disposing of class B shares or ADSs.

Ownership of ADSs in General

In general, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, holders of ADSs will be treated as the owners of the class B shares represented by such ADSs. For purposes of the discussion below, we assume that intermediaries in the chain of ownership between the holder of an ADS and Grupo Financiero Galicia are acting consistently with the claiming of U.S. foreign tax credits by U.S. Holders.


Taxation of Distributions

Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations”, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the gross amount of distributions by Grupo Financiero Galicia of cash or property (other than certain distributions, if any, of class B shares or ADSs distributed pro rata to all shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia, including holders of ADSs) made with respect to the class B shares or ADSs before reduction for any Argentine taxes withheld therefrom, will constitute dividends to the extent that such distributions are paid out of Grupo Financiero Galicia’s current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and will be included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as dividend income. Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations”, non-corporate U.S. Holders generally will be taxed on such distributions on ADSs (or class B shares that are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States at the time of such distribution) at the lower rates applicable to long-term capital gains (i.e., gains from the sale of capital assets held for more than one year). Non-corporate U.S. Holders that (i) do not meet a minimum holding period requirement with respect to such ADSs (or class B shares), (ii) elect to treat the dividend income as “investment income” pursuant to Section 163(d)(4)(B) of the Code or (iii) receive dividends with respect to which they are obligated to make related payments for positions in substantially similar or related property will not be eligible for the reduced rates of taxation. In addition, dividends will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction generally allowed to corporations under the Code.

Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations”, if distributions with respect to the class B shares or ADSs exceed Grupo Financiero Galicia’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the excess will be treated first as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs. Any amount in excess of such adjusted basis will be treated as capital gain from the sale or exchange of such class B shares or ADSs. Grupo Financiero Galicia does not maintain calculations of its earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles.

Dividends paid in Pesos will be included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder in an amount equal to the Dollar value of the Pesos on the date of receipt, which, in the case of ADSs, is the date they are received by the Depositary. The amount of any distribution of property other than cash will be the fair market value of such property on the date of distribution. Any gains or losses resulting from the conversion of Pesos between the time of the receipt of dividends paid in Pesos and the time the Pesos are converted into Dollars will be treated as ordinary income or loss, as the case may be, of a U.S. Holder. Dividends received by a U.S. Holder with respect to the class B shares or ADSs will be treated as foreign source income, which may be relevant in calculating such holder’s foreign tax credit limitation. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, Argentine tax withheld on dividends may be deducted from taxable income or credited against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific categories of income. For this purpose, dividend income with respect to class B shares or ADSs should generally constitute “passive category income”, or in the case of certain U.S. Holders, “general category income”. The rules governing the foreign tax credit are complex. Prospective holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.

Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding and Information Reporting”, a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on dividends received on class B shares or ADSs, unless such income is effectively connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States.

Taxation of Capital Gains

Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations,” U.S. Holders will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon a sale or exchange of class B shares or ADSs in an amount equal to the difference between such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs and the amount realized on their disposition. In the case of a non-corporate U.S. Holder, the maximum marginal U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to such gain will be lower than the maximum marginal U.S. federal income tax rate for ordinary income (other than certain dividends) if the U.S. Holder’s holding period in the class B shares or ADSs exceeds one year at the time of the sale or exchange. Gain or loss, if any, recognized by a


U.S. Holder generally will be treated as United States source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Consequently, a U.S. Holder may not be able to use the foreign tax credit arising from any Argentine tax imposed on the disposition of class B shares or ADSs unless such credit can be applied (subject to applicable limitations) against tax due on other income treated as derived from foreign sources. Certain limitations apply to the deductibility of capital losses for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

A U.S. Holder’s initial tax basis in the class B shares or ADSs is the Dollar value of the Pesos denominated purchase price determined on the date of purchase. If the class B shares or ADSs are treated as traded on an “established securities market”, a cash basis U.S. Holder (or, if it elects, an accrual basis U.S. Holder) will determine the Dollar value of the cost of such class B shares or ADSs by translating the amount paid at the spot rate of exchange on the settlement date of the purchase.

With respect to the sale or exchange of class B shares or ADSs, the amount realized generally will be the Dollar value of the payment received, before reduction for any Argentine taxes withheld therefrom, determined on (i) the date of receipt of payment in the case of a cash basis U.S. Holder and (ii) the date of disposition in the case of an accrual basis U.S. Holder. If the class B shares or ADSs are treated as traded on an “established securities market”, a cash basis taxpayer (or, if it elects, an accrual basis taxpayer) will determine the Dollar value of the amount realized by translating the amount received at the spot rate of exchange on the settlement date of the sale.

Subject to the discussion below under “Backup Withholding and Information Reporting,” a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale or exchange of class B shares or ADSs unless (i) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States or (ii) in the case of gain realized by an individual Non-U.S. Holder, the Non-U.S. Holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale or exchange and certain other conditions are met.

Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations

A non-U.S. corporation will be classified as a “passive foreign investment company”, or a PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes in any taxable year in which, after applying certain look-through rules, either (1) at least 75 percent of its gross income is “passive income” or (2) at least 50 percent of the average value of its gross assets is attributable to assets that produce “passive income” or is held for the production of passive income. Passive income for this purpose generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents and gains from commodities and securities transactions, other than certain income derived in the active conduct of a banking business.

The application of the PFIC rules is unclear both generally and specifically with respect to banks. The United States Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has issued a notice and certain proposed Treasury Regulations that exclude from passive income any income derived in the active conduct of a banking business by a qualifying foreign bank (the “Active Bank Exception”). However, the IRS notice and proposed Treasury Regulations are inconsistent in certain respects. Because final Treasury Regulations have not been issued, there can be no assurance that Grupo Financiero Galicia or its subsidiaries will satisfy the Active Bank Exception for any given taxable year.

Based on certain estimates of its gross income and gross assets (which estimates are inherently imprecise), the nature of its business, and reliance on the Active Bank Exception, Grupo Financiero Galicia believes that it should not be classified as a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2018. Grupo Financiero Galicia’s status in future years will depend on its assets and activities in those years. Grupo Financiero Galicia has no reason to believe that its assets or activities will change in a manner that would cause it to be classified as a PFIC, but there can be no assurance that Grupo Financiero Galicia will not be considered a PFIC for any taxable year. If Grupo Financiero Galicia were a PFIC, a U.S. Holder of class B shares or ADSs generally would be subject to imputed interest charges and other disadvantageous tax treatment with respect to any gain from the sale or exchange of, and certain distributions with respect to, the class B shares or ADSs.

If Grupo Financiero Galicia were a PFIC, a U.S. Holder of class B shares or ADSs could make a variety of elections that may alleviate certain of the adverse tax consequences referred to above, and one of these elections may be made retroactively. However, it is expected that the conditions necessary for making certain of such


elections will not apply in the case of the class B shares or ADSs. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax consequences that would arise if Grupo Financiero Galicia were treated as a PFIC.

Reporting Requirements

Non-corporate U.S. Holders, including individuals, that hold “specified foreign financial assets”, as defined in the Treasury Regulations (which may include class B shares or ADSs), other than in an account at a U.S. financial institution or the U.S. branch of a non-U.S. financial institution, are required to report certain information relating to such assets. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of this and any other reporting requirements on their ownership and disposition of class B shares or ADSs. Failure to comply with applicable reporting requirements could result in the imposition of substantial penalties.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

United States backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements generally apply to certain payments to certain holders of stock.

Information reporting generally will apply to payments of dividends on, and to proceeds from the sale or redemption of, class B shares or ADSs made within the United States, or by a U.S. payor or U.S. middleman, to a holder of class B shares or ADSs (other than an exempt recipient, such as a payee that is not a United States person and that provides an appropriate certification).

Payments of dividends on, or proceeds from the sale or redemption of, class B shares or ADSs within the United States, or by a U.S. payor or U.S. middleman, to a holder (other than an exempt recipient, such as a payee that is not a United States person and that provides an appropriate certification) will be subject to backup withholding if such holder fails to furnish its correct taxpayer identification number or otherwise fails to comply with, or establish an exemption from, such backup withholding tax requirements. The backup withholding tax rate is currently 24%.

FATCA

Beginning on the date that is two years after the date on which final Treasury Regulations are published defining the term “foreign passthru payment”, Grupo Financiero Galicia may be required, pursuant to Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder (often referred to as the “Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act” or “FATCA”) to withhold U.S. tax at a 30% rate on all or a portion of any distribution on class B shares or ADSs which is treated as a “foreign passthru payment”.

Assuming that distributions from Grupo Financiero Galicia constitute “foreign passthru payments” and that Grupo Financiero Galicia enters into an agreement with the IRS to report the information required by FATCA or, if Argentina has entered in an intergovernmental agreement with the United States (an “IGA”), Grupo Financiero Galicia complies with such IGA, then an investor considered to have a “U.S. account” maintained by Grupo Financiero Galicia may be required to provide the information described below or be subject to U.S. withholding tax on any distribution on class B shares or ADSs that is treated as a “foreign passthru payment”. Investors in class B shares or ADSs that are financial institutions, or financial institutions that receive payments on behalf of other persons, and that have not entered into an agreement with the IRS (or otherwise established an exemption from FATCA, including pursuant to an applicable IGA) would also be subject to this U.S. withholding tax.

FATCA is particularly complex and its application to Grupo Financiero Galicia is uncertain at this time. Each holder of class B shares or ADSs should consult its own tax advisor to obtain a more detailed explanation of FATCA and to learn how it might affect such holder under its particular circumstances.

Medicare Tax on Investment Income

Certain U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts are required to pay a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (i) the U.S. Holder’s “net investment income” for the taxable year and (ii) the excess of the U.S. Holder’s modified


adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold. Net investment income includes, among other things, dividends and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of class B shares or ADSs.

THE ABOVE SUMMARIES ARE NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE A COMPLETE ANALYSIS OF ALL TAX CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF CLASS B SHARES OR ADSs. PROSPECTIVE HOLDERS SHOULD CONSULT AN INDEPENDENT TAX ADVISOR CONCERNING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES IN THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES.

H. Documents on Display

We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, we file reports and other information with the SEC. These materials, including this annual report and its exhibits, may be inspected and printed or copied for a fee at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information about the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. These materials are also available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Material submitted by us can also be inspected at the offices of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. at 1735 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006-1506.

Item 11.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

General

Market risks faced by us are the risks arising from the fluctuations in interest rates and in foreign exchange rates. Our market risk arises mainly from the operations of Banco Galicia in its capacity as a financial intermediary. Our subsidiaries and other entities in which we have a minority equity interest are also subject to market risk. However, the amount of these risks is not significant and they are not discussed below. Policies regarding these risks are applied at the level of our operating subsidiaries.

In compliance with the Argentine Central Bank’s regulations, based on the best practices and international standards, Banco Galicia has a Risk Management Division responsible for identifying, monitoring and actively and integrally managing the different risks Banco Galicia and its subsidiaries are exposed to (credit, financial and operational risks). The aim of the Division is to guarantee Banco Galicia’s board of directors that it is fully aware of the risks Banco Galicia is exposed to. It also creates and proposes the policies and procedures necessary to mitigate and control such risks. The Risk Management Committee, made-up of four members of the board of directors of Banco Galicia, the Chief Executive Officer and the managers of the Risk Management Division, the Planning Division and Internal Audit, is the highest corporate body to which Banco Galicia’s board of directors delegates integral risk management and the executive responsibility to define and enforce risk management policies, procedures and controls. This Committee is also responsible for setting specific limits for the exposure to each risk and approving, when applicable, temporary excesses over such limits as well as being informed of each risk position and compliance with policies.

See Item 6. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees”—“Functions of the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia”. Liquidity management is discussed in Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”─.B.“Liquidity and Capital Resources”. Credit risk management is discussed in Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.“Business Overview”─ “Selected Statistical Information”—“Credit Review Process” and other sections under Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.”Business Overview”─ “Selected Statistical Information” describing Grupo Galicia’s financial instruments portfolio and financial instruments loss experience.

The following sections contain information on Banco Galicia’s sensitivity to interest-rate risk and exchange-rate risk that constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Interest Rate Risk

A distinctive and natural characteristic of financial brokerage is the existence of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities with different maturities (or different rate repricing periods) and interest rates that can be


fixed or variable. This situation leads to a gap or mismatch that arises from the balance sheet and measures the imbalance between fixed- and variable-rate assets and liabilities, and results in the so-called interest-rate risk or balance sheet structural risk. A commercial bank can face the interest rate risk on both sides of its balance sheet: with regard to the income generated by assets (loans and securities) and the expenses related to the interest-bearing liabilities (deposits and other sources of funds).

The policy currently in force defines this gap as the risk that the financial margin and the economic value of equity may vary as a consequence of fluctuations in market interest rates. The magnitude of such variation is associated with the sensitivity to interest rates of the structure of the Bank’s assets and liabilities.

Aimed at managing and limiting the sensitivity of Banco Galicia's economic value and results with respect to variations in the interest rate inherent to the structure of certain assets and liabilities, the following caps have been determined:

Limit on the gross brokerage margin for the first year.

Limit on the net present value of assets and liabilities.

Limit on the Gross Brokerage Margin for the First Year

The effect of interest rate fluctuations on the gross brokerage margin for the first year is calculated using the methodology known as scenario simulation. On a monthly basis, gross brokerage margin for the first year is simulated in a base scenario and in a “+400 bps” scenario for peso currency and “+200 bps” scenario for dollar scenario. In order to prepare each scenario, different criteria are assumed regarding the sensitivity to interest rates of assets and liabilities, depending on the historical performance observed of the different balance sheet items. Gross brokerage margin for the first year in the “+400 bps” and “+200 bps” scenario is compared to the gross brokerage margin for the first year in the “base” scenario. The resulting difference is related to the annualized accounting gross brokerage margin for the last calendar trailing quarter available, for Banco Galicia on a consolidated basis.

The limit on a potential loss was established at 10% of the gross brokerage margin for the first year, as defined above. At fiscal year-end, the negative difference between the gross brokerage margin for the first year corresponding to the “+400/200 bps” scenario and that corresponding to the “base” scenario accounted for -6.4% of the gross brokerage margin for the first year.

The tables below show as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017,

A. General

Market risks faced by us are the risks arising from the fluctuations in interest rates and in foreign exchange rates. Our market risk arises mainly from the operations of Banco Galicia in its capacity as a financial intermediary. Our subsidiaries and are also subject to market risk. However, the amount of these risks is not significant, and they are not discussed below. Policies regarding these risks are applied at the level of our operating subsidiaries.

In compliance with the BCRA’s regulations, based on the best practices and international standards, Banco Galicia has a Risk Management Division responsible for identifying, monitoring and actively and integrally managing the different risks Banco Galicia and its subsidiaries are exposed to (credit, financial and operational risks). The aim of the Division is to guarantee Banco Galicia’s board of directors that it is fully aware of the risks Banco Galicia is exposed to. It also creates and proposes the policies and procedures necessary to mitigate and control such risks. The Risk Management Committee, made-up of six members of the board of directors of Banco Galicia, the Chief Executive Officer and the managers of the Risk Management Division, the Planning Division and Internal Audit, is the highest corporate body to which Banco Galicia’s board of directors delegates integral risk management and the executive responsibility to define and enforce risk management policies, procedures and controls. This Committee is also responsible for setting specific limits for the exposure to each risk and approving, when applicable, temporary excesses over such limits as well as being informed of each risk position and compliance with policies.

See Item 6. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees”—“Functions of the Board of Directors of Banco Galicia”. Liquidity management is discussed in Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”-.B.“Liquidity and Capital Resources”. Credit risk management is discussed in Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.“Business Overview”- “Selected Statistical Information”—“Credit Review Process” and other sections under Item 4. “Information on the Company”—B.”Business Overview”- “Selected Statistical Information” describing Grupo Galicia’s financial instruments portfolio and financial instruments loss experience.

The following sections contain information on Banco Galicia’s sensitivity to interest-rate risk and exchange-rate risk that constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

B. Interest Rate Risk

A distinctive and natural characteristic of financial brokerage is the existence of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities with different maturities (or different rate repricing periods) and interest rates that can be fixed or variable. This situation leads to a gap or mismatch that arises from the balance sheet and measures the imbalance between fixed- and variable-rate assets and liabilities, and results in the so-called interest-rate risk or balance sheet structural risk. A commercial bank can face the interest rate risk on both sides of its balance sheet: with regard to the income generated by assets (loans and securities) and the expenses related to the interest-bearing liabilities (deposits and other sources of funds).

The policy currently in force defines this gap as the risk that the financial margin and the economic value of equity may vary as a consequence of fluctuations in market interest rates. The magnitude of such variation is associated with the sensitivity to interest rates of the structure of the Bank’s assets and liabilities.

Aimed at managing and limiting the sensitivity of Banco Galicia’s economic value and results with respect to variations in the interest rate inherent to the structure of certain assets and liabilities, the following caps have been determined:

Limit on the gross brokerage margin for the first year.

Limit on the net present value of assets and liabilities.

i) Limit on the Gross Brokerage Margin for the First Year

The effect of interest rate fluctuations on the gross brokerage margin for the first year is calculated using the methodology known as scenario simulation. On a monthly basis, gross brokerage margin for the first year is simulated in a base scenario and in a “+400 bps” scenario for peso currency and “+200 bps” scenario for dollar scenario. In order to prepare each scenario, different criteria are assumed regarding the sensitivity to interest rates of assets and liabilities, depending on the historical performance observed of the different balance sheet items. Gross brokerage margin for the first year in the “+400 bps” and “+200 bps” scenario is compared to the gross brokerage margin for the first year in the “base” scenario. The resulting difference is related to the annualized accounting gross brokerage margin for the last calendar trailing quarter available, for Banco Galicia on a consolidated basis.

The limit on a potential loss was established at 10% of the gross brokerage margin for the first year, as defined above. At fiscal year-end, the negative difference between the gross brokerage margin for the first year corresponding to the “+400/200 bps” scenario and that corresponding to the “base” scenario accounted for -4.6% of the gross brokerage margin for the first year.

The tables below show as of December 31, 2020 in absolute and percentage terms, the change in Banco Galicia’s gross brokerage margin (“GBM”) of the first year, as compared to the gross brokerage margin of the “base” scenario corresponding to various interest-rate scenarios in which interest rates change 50, 100, 150 and 200 bps from those in the “base” scenario. Banco Galicia’s net portfolio is broken down into trading and non-trading. The trading net portfolio represents primarily securities issued by the Argentine Government.

Net Portfolio

 
   Gross Brokerage Margin (1) 
   December 31, 2020 
   (In millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Change in Interest Rates in bps

  Variation   % Change in the
GBM
 

200

   2,812    2.54

150

   2,106    1.91

100

   1,403    1.27

50

   700    0.64

Static

    

(50)

   (650   (0.60)% 

(100)

   (1,310   (1.19)% 

(150)

   (1,962   (1.78)% 

(200)

   (2,512   (2.37)% 

(1)

Net interest of the first year as compared to the gross brokerage margin

Net Trading Portfolio

 
   Gross Brokerage Margin (1) 
   December 31, 2020 
   (In millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Change in Interest Rates in bps

  Variation   % Change in the
GBM
 

200

   146    0.10

150

   109    0.08

100

   72    0.05

50

   36    0.03

Static

    

(50)

   (18   (0.01)% 

(100)

   (66   (0.05)% 

(150)

   (115   (0.08)% 

(200)

   (164   (0.12)% 

(1)

Net interest of the “base” scenario corresponding to various interest-rate scenarios in which interest rates change 50, 100, 150 and 200 bps from those in the “base” scenario. Banco Galicia’s net portfolio is broken down into trading and non-trading. The trading net portfolio represents primarily securities issued by the Argentine Government.first year

Net Non -Trading Portfolio

 
   Gross Brokerage Margin (1) 
   December 31, 2020 
   (In millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

Change in Interest Rates in bps

  Variation   % Change in the
GBM
 

200

   2,357    1.66

150

   1,766    1.24

100

   1,177    0.83

50

   588    0.41

Static

    

(50)

   (703   (0.49)% 

(100)

   (1,452   (1.02)% 

(150)

   (2,204   (1.55)% 

(200)

   (2,955   (2.08)% 

 

Net Portfolio

 

 

Gross Brokerage Margin (1)

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

(In millions of Pesos, except percentages)

Change in Interest Rates in bps

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

200

 

 

2,118

 

 

3.02%

 

 

762

 

 

2.88%

150

 

 

1,525

 

 

2.17%

 

 

570

 

 

2.15%

100

 

 

933

 

 

1.33%

 

 

377

 

 

1.42%

50

 

 

343

 

 

0.49%

 

 

185

 

 

0.70%

Static

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50)

 

 

(568

)

 

(0.81)%

 

 

(195

)

 

(0.74)%

(100)

 

 

(1,255

)

 

(1.79)%

 

 

(382

)

 

(1.44)%

(150)

 

 

(1,935

)

 

(2.76)%

 

 

(597

)

 

(2.26)%

(200)

 

 

(2,598

)

 

(3.70)%

 

 

(812

)

 

(3.07)%

(1)

(1)

Net interest of the first year


Net Trading Portfolio

 

 

Gross Brokerage Margin (1)

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

(In millions of Pesos, except percentages)

Change in Interest Rates in bps

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

200

 

 

24

 

 

0.03%

 

 

213

 

 

0.80%

150

 

 

18

 

 

0.03%

 

 

158

 

 

0.60%

100

 

 

12

 

 

0.02%

 

 

103

 

 

0.39%

50

 

 

6

 

 

0.01%

 

 

48

 

 

0.18%

Static

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50)

 

 

(6

)

 

(0.01)%

 

 

(60

)

 

(0.23)%

(100)

 

 

(12

)

 

(0.02)%

 

 

(114

)

 

(0.43)%

(150)

 

 

(17

)

 

(0.02)%

 

 

(168

)

 

(0.63)%

(200)

 

 

(23

)

 

(0.03)%

 

 

(222

)

 

(0.84)%

(1)

Net interest of the first year

Net Non -Trading Portfolio

 

 

Gross Brokerage Margin (1)

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

(In millions of Pesos, except percentages)

Change in Interest Rates in bps

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

 

Variation

 

 

% Change in the GBM

200

 

 

2,094

 

 

2.98%

 

 

549

 

 

2.07%

150

 

 

1,507

 

 

2.15%

 

 

412

 

 

1.56%

100

 

 

921

 

 

1.31%

 

 

274

 

 

1.04%

50

 

 

337

 

 

0.48%

 

 

137

 

 

0.52%

Static

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50)

 

 

(562

)

 

(0.80)%

 

 

(135

)

 

(0.51)%

(100)

 

 

(1,243

)

 

(1.77)%

 

 

(268

)

 

(1.01)%

(150)

 

 

(1,918

)

 

(2.73)%

 

 

(429

)

 

(1.62)%

(200)

 

 

(2,575

)

 

(3.67)%

 

 

(590

)

 

(2.23)%

(1)

Net interest of the first year

Limit on the Net Present Value of Assets and Liabilities

The net present value of assets and liabilities is also calculated on a monthly basis and taking into account the assets and liabilities of Banco Galicia’s consolidated balance sheet. The methodology used for calculating interest rate risk is based on the net present value of the underlying asset of liability.

The net present value of the consolidated assets and liabilities, as mentioned, is calculated for a “base” scenario in which the listed securities portfolio is discounted using interest rates obtained according to yield curves determined based on the market yields of different reference bonds denominated in Pesos, foreign currency and adjusted by CER/UVA. Yield curves for unlisted assets and liabilities are also created using market interest rates. The net present value of assets and liabilities is also obtained for a second scenario called “critical”, where through a significant number of statistical simulations of the interest rate track record, a “critical” scenario is obtained as a result of the interest rate risk exposure presented by the balance sheet structure.

The economic capital is obtained from the resulting difference between the “critical” scenario and the net present value of assets and liabilities of the “base” scenario, and considering a 99.5% degree of accuracy.

The limit on interest rate risk exposure, expressed as a difference between the net present value of assets and liabilities in the “base” scenario and the “critical” scenario cannot exceed 15% of the consolidated RPC. As of December 31, 2018, the “Value at Risk” was -14.2% of the RPC.


Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

Exchange-rate sensitivity is the relationship between the fluctuations of exchange rates and Banco Galicia’s net financial income resulting from the revaluation of Banco Galicia’s assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency. The impact of variations in the exchange rate on Banco Galicia’s net financial income depends on whether Banco Galicia has a net asset foreign currency position (the amount by which foreign currency denominated assets exceed foreign currency denominated liabilities) or a net liability foreign currency position (the amount by which foreign currency denominated liabilities exceed foreign currency denominated assets). In the first case an increase/decrease in the exchange rate results in a gain/loss, respectively. In the second case, an increase/decrease results in a loss/gain, respectively. Banco Galicia has established limits for its consolidated foreign currency mismatches for the asset and liability positions of -9 % and + 30% of Banco Galicia’s RPC. At the end of the fiscal year Banco Galicia’s net asset position in foreign currency represented 0.6%.

As of December 31, 2018, Banco Galicia had a net asset foreign currency position of Ps.620 million (US$16 million) after adjusting its on-balance sheet net liability position of Ps.591 million (US$13

ii) Limit on the Net Present Value of Assets and Liabilities

The net present value of assets and liabilities is also calculated on a monthly basis and taking into account the assets and liabilities of Banco Galicia’s consolidated balance sheet. The methodology used for calculating interest rate risk is based on the net present value of the underlying asset of liability.

The net present value of the consolidated assets and liabilities, as mentioned, is calculated for a “base” scenario in which the listed securities portfolio is discounted using interest rates obtained according to yield curves determined based on the market yields of different reference bonds denominated in Pesos, foreign currency and adjusted by CER/UVA. Yield curves for unlisted assets and liabilities are also created using market interest rates. The net present value of assets and liabilities is also obtained for a second scenario called “critical”, where through a significant number of statistical simulations of the interest rate track record, a “critical” scenario is obtained as a result of the interest rate risk exposure presented by the balance sheet structure.

The economic capital is obtained from the resulting difference between the “critical” scenario and the net present value of assets and liabilities of the “base” scenario and considering a 99.5% degree of accuracy.

The limit on interest rate risk exposure, expressed as a difference between the net present value of assets and liabilities in the “base” scenario and the “critical” scenario cannot exceed 15% of the consolidated RPC. As of December 31, 2020, the “Value at Risk” was (7.73%) of the Tier 1.

C. Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

Exchange-rate sensitivity is the relationship between the fluctuations of exchange rates and Banco Galicia’s net financial income resulting from the revaluation of Banco Galicia’s assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency. The impact of variations in the exchange rate on Banco Galicia’s net financial income depends on whether Banco Galicia has a net asset foreign currency position (the amount by which foreign currency denominated assets exceed foreign currency denominated liabilities) or a net liability foreign currency position (the amount by which foreign currency denominated liabilities exceed foreign currency denominated assets). In the first case an increase/decrease in the exchange rate results in a gain/loss, respectively. In the second case, an increase/decrease results in a loss/gain, respectively. Banco Galicia has established limits for its consolidated foreign currency mismatches for the asset and liability positions of -9 % and + 30% of Banco Galicia’s RPC. At the end of the fiscal year, Banco Galicia’s net asset position in foreign currency represented -0.3% (minus 0.3%).

As of December 31, 2020, Banco Galicia had a net liability foreign currency position of Ps.873 million (US$10,4 million) after adjusting its on-balance sheet net liability position of Ps.413 million (US$4,9 million) by net forward purchases of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, for Ps.460 million (US$5,5 million), recorded off-balance sheet.

The table below show the effects of changes in the exchange rate of the Peso vis-à-vis the Dollar on the value of Banco Galicia’s foreign currency net asset position as of December 31, 2020. As of these dates, the breakdown of Banco Galicia’s foreign currency net asset position into trading and non-trading is not presented, as Banco Galicia’s foreign currency trading portfolio was not material.

   Value of Foreign Currency Net Position 
   As of December 31, 
   2020 

Percentage Change in the Value of the Peso Relative to the Dollar (1)

  Amount   Absolute Variation   % Change 
   (in millions of Pesos, except percentages) 

40%

   (579   (165   40 

30%

   (537   (124   30 

20%

   (496   (83   20 

10%

   (455   (41   10 

Static (2)

   (413   —      —   

-10%

   (372   41    (10

-20%

   (331   83    (20

-30%

   (289   124    (30

-40%

   (248   165    (40

(1)

Devaluation / (Revaluation).

(2)

Adjusted to reflect forward purchases and sales of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, for Ps.101 million (US$3 million), recorded off-balance sheet.

As of December 31, 2017, Banco Galicia had a net asset foreign currency position of Ps.519 million (US$27 million), after adjusting its on-balance sheet net asset position of Ps.2033million (US$108 million) by net forward purchases of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, for Ps.2,552 million (US$136 million), recorded off-balance sheet.

As of January 1, 2017, Banco Galicia had a net asset foreign currency position of Ps.1,041 million (US$65 million) after adjusting its on-balance sheet net liability position of Ps.1,371 million (US$87 million) by net forward purchases of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, for Ps.2,412 million (US$152 million), recorded off-balance sheet

The tables below show the effects of changesregistered in the exchange rate of the Peso vis-à-vis the Dollar on the value of Banco Galicia’s foreign currency net asset position as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and January 1, 2017. As of these dates, the breakdown of Banco Galicia’s foreign currency net asset position into trading and non-trading is not presented, as Banco Galicia’s foreign currency trading portfolio was not materialmemorandum accounts.

 

 

 

 

Value of Foreign Currency Net Position

 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2018

 

Percentage Change in the Value of the Peso Relative to the Dollar (1)

 

 

Amount

 

 

Absolute Variation

 

 

% Change

 

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

40%

 

 

 

867

 

 

 

247

 

 

 

40

 

30%

 

 

 

806

 

 

 

186

 

 

 

30

 

20%

 

 

 

744

 

 

 

124

 

 

 

20

 

10%

 

 

 

682

 

 

 

62

 

 

 

10

 

Static (2)

 

 

 

620

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-10%

 

 

 

558

 

 

 

(62

)

 

 

(10

)

-20%

 

 

 

496

 

 

 

(124

)

 

 

(20

)

-30%

 

 

 

434

 

 

 

(186

)

 

 

(30

)

-40%

 

 

 

373

 

 

 

(247

)

 

 

(40

)

(1)

Devaluation / (Revaluation).

(2)

Adjusted to reflect forward purchases and sales of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, registered in memorandum accounts.


 

 

 

 

Value of Foreign Currency Net Position

 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2017

 

Percentage Change in the Value of the Peso Relative to the Dollar (1)

 

 

Amount

 

 

Absolute Variation

 

 

% Change

 

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

40%

 

 

 

(726

)

 

 

(207

)

 

 

40

 

30%

 

 

 

(675

)

 

 

(156

)

 

 

30

 

20%

 

 

 

(623

)

 

 

(104

)

 

 

20

 

10%

 

 

 

(571

)

 

 

(52

)

 

 

10

 

Static (2)

 

 

 

519

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-10%

 

 

 

(467

)

 

 

(52

)

 

 

(10

)

-20%

 

 

 

(415

)

 

 

(104

)

 

 

(20

)

-30%

 

 

 

(363

)

 

 

(156

)

 

 

(30

)

-40%

 

 

 

(312

)

 

 

(207

)

 

 

(40

)

(1)

Devaluation / (Revaluation).

(2)

Adjusted to reflect forward purchases and sales of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, registered in memorandum accounts.

 

 

 

 

Value of Foreign Currency Net Position

 

 

 

 

 

As of January 1,

 

 

 

 

 

2017

 

Percentage Change in the Value of the Peso Relative to the Dollar (1)

 

 

Amount

 

 

Absolute Variation

 

 

% Change

 

 

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos, except percentages)

 

40%

 

 

 

1,456

 

 

 

415

 

 

 

40

 

30%

 

 

 

1,353

 

 

 

312

 

 

 

30

 

20%

 

 

 

1,249

 

 

 

208

 

 

 

20

 

10%

 

 

 

1,145

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

10

 

Static (2)

 

 

 

1,041

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-10%

 

 

 

937

 

 

 

(104

)

 

 

(10

)

-20%

 

 

 

833

 

 

 

(208

)

 

 

(20

)

-30%

 

 

 

729

 

 

 

(312

)

 

 

(30

)

-40%

 

 

 

626

 

 

 

(415

)

 

 

(40

)

(1)

Devaluation / (Revaluation).

(2)

Adjusted to reflect forward purchases and sales of foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset, registered in memorandum accounts.

D. Currency Mismatches

The funding and the use of funds in loans and/or investments can be carried out in assets and liabilities denominated in different currencies. As such, there is the potential for a currency mismatch between liabilities and the use thereof on assets, generating a risk. Currency risk is defined as the risk of incurring equity losses as a result of variations in the foreign currency exchange rates in which assets and liabilities are denominated.

The management of the Bank’s currency risk mismatch involves the monitoring of foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities that may change in the short- and or mid-term. One of the available market instruments for the management of currency mismatches of assets and liabilities are “currency futures” transactions, which are traded on the MAE (MAE – OCT) and Mercado a Término de Rosario (ROFEX).

The policy framework currently in force establishes limits in terms of maximum net asset positions (assets denominated in a currency which are higher than the liabilities denominated in such currency) and net liability positions (assets denominated in a currency which are lower than the liabilities denominated in such currency) for mismatches in foreign currency, as a proportion of the Bank’s computable regulatory capital (RPC), on a consolidated basis.

The table below shows the composition of the Grupo Financiero Galicia’s Shareholders’ Equity as of December 31, 2020, by currency and type of adjustment:

   December 31, 2020 
   Assets   Liabilities   Gap 
   (in millions of Pesos) 

Financial Assets and Liabilities

   883,853    759,711    124,142 

Pesos - Adjusted by UVA

   32,321    7,099    25,222 

Pesos - Unadjusted

   637,405    537,612    99,793 

Foreign Currency (1)

   214,127    215,000    (873

Other Assets and Liabilities

   62,166    34,487    27,679 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Gap

   946,019    794,198    151,821 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted for Forward Transactions Recorded in Memo Accounts

      

Financial Assets and Liabilities

   883,853    759,711    124,142 

Pesos - Adjusted by the UVA

   32,321    7,099    25,222 

Pesos - Unadjusted, Including Shareholders’ Equity (2)

   612,456    513,123    99,333 

Foreign Currency (1) (2)

   239,076    239,489    (413

Other Assets and Liabilities

   62,166    34,487    27,679 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Adjusted Gap

   946,019    794,198    151,821 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

In Pesos, at an exchange rate of Ps.84,145 per US$1.

(2)

Adjusted for forward sales and purchases of foreign exchange, without delivery of underlying assets and recorded in Memorandum Accounts.

As of December 31, 2020, considering the adjustments from forward transactions recorded under memorandum accounts, Grupo Financiero Galicia had net asset positions in foreign currency and Pesos adjusted and non-adjusted.

The paragraphs below describe the composition of the different currency mismatches of assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2020:

i) Assets and Liabilities Denominated in Foreign Currency

As of December 31, 2020, the Grupo Financiero Galicia’s assets denominated in foreign currency were mainly comprised of the following: (i) Ps.153.544 million of cash and balances from the BCRA and correspondent banks; (ii) Ps.51.722 million for loans (principal plus interest) and other financing, including Ps.1.368 million for receivables for financial leases; (iii) Ps.4.378 million for government and private securities; (iv) Ps.2.580 million for other financial assets includes Ps.2.437 million for Prisma and (v) Ps.1.845 million for assets pledged as collateral, including forward purchases of government securities.

The liabilities denominated in foreign currency consisted mainly of: (i) Ps.166,916 million for deposits (principal, interest and quotation differences); (ii) Ps.8,611 million for payables to banks and international credit entities; (iii) Ps.26,482 million for subordinated notes issued by Banco Galicia; (iv) Ps.12,068 million for other financial liabilities, mainly collections on behalf of third parties and leasings and (v) Ps.913 million recorded in “Other Non-financial Liabilities”.

A net asset liability of Ps.873 million stemmed from the consolidated balance sheet. Furthermore, forward transactions in foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset were recorded in memorandum accounts, which, in terms of their notional value, were equal to a net asset position of Ps.460 million. Therefore, as of that date, the net position in foreign currency adjusted to reflect these transactions was a net liability position of Ps.413million, equivalent to US$4,9 million.

Grupo Financiero Galicia has set limits as regards foreign-currency mismatches at -9% of the Bank’s RPC for its net liability position and at +30% of the Bank’s RPC for its net asset position. At the fiscal year-end, Banco Galicia’s net asset position in foreign currency represented - 0.3 % of its RPC.

ii) Non-Adjusted Peso-Denominated Assets and Liabilities

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s non-adjusted Peso-denominated assets at December 31, 2020 were mainly comprised of the following: (i) Ps.360.234 million for loans (principal plus interest, net of allowances) including Ps.573 million for receivables from financial leases and Ps.2.120 million for miscellaneous receivables; (ii) Ps.128.325 million for the holding of securities issued by the BCRA (LELIQ); (iii) Ps.30.209 million for cash and balances held at the BCRA and correspondent banks (including the balance of escrow accounts); (iv) Ps.60.996 million for repurchase transactions; (v) Ps.48.399 million for the holding of government and private securities, including Ps.21.462 million for BOTE 2022; (vi) Ps.3.353 million for “Other Financial Asset; and (vii) Ps.4.977 million pledged as collateral.

Grupo Financiero Galicia’s non-adjusted Peso-denominated liabilities at December 31, 2020 were mainly comprised of the following (i) Ps.504.088 million for deposits (principal plus interest); (ii) Ps.20.886 million for liabilities payable to stores, credit card transactions of Banco Galicia; (iii) Ps.3.075 million for notes issued by Banco Galicia; (iv) Ps.6.987 million for other financial liabilities; (v) Ps.1.581 million for debt incurred with local financial institutions and (vi) Ps.937 million for amounts payable for future transactions and transactions pending settlement of government securities and foreign currency.

The net asset position in non-adjusted Peso-denominated assets and liabilities was Ps 95.797 million at December 31, 2020.

iii) Peso-Denominated Assets and Liabilities Adjusted by UVA

At December 31, 2020, the net asset position amounted to Ps 25,222 million, which is primarily comprised of Ps.29,663 million for loans, mainly UVA mortgage loans and Ps.2,658 million for miscellaneous receivables.

With respect to liabilities, Ps.5,662 million was related to UVA-adjusted time deposits and Ps.1,437 million related to balances of the unemployment fund of construction workers.

iv) Other Assets and Liabilities

As of December 31, 2020, “Other Assets—Liabilities” mainly included the following: (i) property, plant and equipment, miscellaneous and intangible assets for Ps.52,302 million; (ii) miscellaneous receivables for Ps.4,535 million and (iii) Ps.6.361 million recorded in “Other Non-financial assets”;

As of December 31, 2020, liabilities mainly included the following: (i) Ps.18.023 million recorded in “Other Non-financial Liabilities”; (ii) Ps.13,031 million for current income tax liabilities; and (iii) Ps.3,433 million for provisions for other contingencies.

E. Market Risk

The exposure of portfolios consisting of listed financial instruments, whose values vary according to the movements in their market prices, is subject to a specific policy framework. This framework regulates the risk of incurring a loss as a consequence of the variation in the market price of financial assets whose values are subject to negotiation.

Brokerage transactions and/or investments in government securities, currencies, notes, derivative products and debt instruments issued by the BCRA are governed by the policy that limits the maximum tolerable losses in a given fiscal year.

In order to gauge and monitor this source of risk, the model known as Value at Risk (VaR) is used, among others. Banco Galicia measures risk by means of a parametric VaR model, assuming that returns follow a multivariate normal distribution. This model determines on an intra-daily basis the potential losses that could be generated for the Bank individually according to its portfolio, under certain parameters.

The parameters taken into consideration are as follows:

(i)

A 99% confidence level on the method used for the VaR model analysis.

(ii)

Holding periods of one day and “n” days, where “n” is defined as the risknumber of incurring equity lossesdays necessary to settle the position in each security.

(iii)

Volatilities are calculated as a resultthe standard deviation of variationsreturns in the foreign currency exchange rates in which assetsavailable trading days. If there are new issuances, or if there are not enough trading days or quotations, the volatility of bonds from domestic issuers with similar risk and liabilitiescharacteristics are denominated.used.

The management of the Bank’s currency risk mismatch involves the monitoring of foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities that may change in the short- and or mid-term. One of the available market instruments for the management of currency mismatches of assets and liabilities are “currency futures” transactions, which are traded on the MAE (MAE – OCT) and Mercado a Término de Rosario (ROFEX).

The policy framework currently in force establishes limits in terms of maximum net asset positions (assets denominated in a currency which are higher than the liabilities denominated in such currency) and net liability positions (assets denominated in a currency which are lower than the liabilities denominated in such currency) for mismatches in foreign currency, as a proportion of the Bank’s computable regulatory capital (“RPC”), on a consolidated basis.


The table below shows the composition of the Bank’s Shareholders’ Equity as of December 31, 2018, by currency and type of adjustment:

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Assets

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

Gap

 

 

 

(in millions of Pesos)

 

Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

 

541,490

 

 

 

489,870

 

 

 

51,620

 

Pesos - Adjusted by UVA

 

 

18,457

 

 

 

3,207

 

 

 

15,250

 

Pesos - Unadjusted

 

 

322,227

 

 

 

286,218

 

 

 

36,009

 

Foreign Currency (1)

 

 

200,806

 

 

 

200,445

 

 

 

361

 

Other Assets and Liabilities

 

 

28,202

 

 

 

17,979

 

 

 

10,223

 

Total Gap

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

507,849

 

 

 

61,843

 

Adjusted for Forward Transactions Recorded in Memo Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

 

541,490

 

 

 

489,870

 

 

 

51,620

 

Pesos - Adjusted by the UVA

 

 

18,457

 

 

 

3,207

 

 

 

15,250

 

Pesos - Unadjusted, Including Shareholders’ Equity (2)

 

 

282,085

 

 

 

246,177

 

 

 

35,908

 

Foreign Currency (1) (2)

 

 

240,948

 

 

 

240,486

 

 

 

462

 

Other Assets and Liabilities

 

 

28,202

 

 

 

17,979

 

 

 

10,223

 

Total Adjusted Gap

 

 

569,692

 

 

 

507,849

 

 

 

61,843

 

(1)

In Pesos, at an exchange rate of Ps.37.8083 per US$1.

(2)

Adjusted for forward sales and purchases of foreign exchange, without delivery of underlying assets and recorded in Memorandum Accounts.

As of December 31, 2018, considering the adjustments from forward transactions recorded under memorandum accounts, Banco Galicia had net asset positions in foreign currency and Pesos adjusted and non-adjusted.

The paragraphs below describe the composition of the different currency mismatches of assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018:

Assets and Liabilities Denominated in Foreign Currency

As of December 31, 2018, the Bank’s assets denominated in foreign currency were mainly comprised of the following: (i) Ps.95,614 million of cash and balances from the Argentine Central Bank and correspondent banks; (ii) Ps.95,707 million for loans (principal plus interest, net of allowances) and other financing, including Ps.1,002 million for receivables for financial leases; (iii) Ps.4,375 million for debt securities, primarily financial trusts; (iv) Ps.2,893 million for assets pledged as collateral, including forward purchases of government securities and (v) Ps.1,459 million for government and private securities.

The liabilities denominated in foreign currency consisted mainly of: (i) Ps.162,668 million for deposits (principal, interest and quotation differences); (ii) Ps.13,955 million for payables to banks and international credit entities; (iii) Ps.13,619 million for subordinated and unsubordinated notes issued by Banco Galicia; (iv) Ps.8,003 million for other financial liabilities, mainly collections on behalf of third parties; (v) Ps.1,895 million for repurchase transactions; and (vi) Ps.1,087 million for sales of government securities and foreign currency pending settlement.

A net asset position of Ps.361 million stemmed from the consolidated balance sheet. Furthermore, forward transactions in foreign currency without delivery of the underlying asset were recorded in memorandum accounts, which, in terms of their notional value, were equal to a net asset position of Ps.101 million. Therefore, as of that date, the net position in foreign currency adjusted to reflect these transactions was a net asset position of Ps.462 million, equivalent to US$12 million.

Banco Galicia has set limits as regards foreign-currency mismatches at -9% of the Bank’s RPC for its net liability position and at +30% of the Bank’s RPC for its net asset position. At the fiscal year-end, Banco Galicia's net asset position in foreign currency represented 0.8% of its RPC.


Non-Adjusted Peso-Denominated Assets and Liabilities

The Bank’s non-adjusted Peso-denominated assets at December 31, 2018 were mainly comprised of the following: (i) Ps.168,546 million for loans (principal plus interest, net of allowances) including Ps.1,167 million for receivables from financial leases and Ps.974 million for miscellaneous receivables; (ii) Ps.70,098 million for the holding of securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank. (Leliq); (iii) Ps.52,883 million for cash and balances held at the Argentine Central Bank and correspondent banks (including the balance of escrow accounts); (iv) Ps.14,438 million for the holding of government and private securities; (v). Ps.8,351 million for “Other Financial Assets”, out of which Ps.4,223 million was related to mutual funds of regional credit-card companies; (vi) Ps.2,736 million pledged as collateral; and (vii) Ps.2,068 million for repurchase transactions.

Banco Galicia’s non-adjusted Peso-denominated liabilities at December 31, 2018 were mainly comprised of the following (i) Ps.194,223 million for deposits (principal plus interest); (ii) Ps.36,895 million for liabilities payable to stores, credit card transactions of Banco Galicia and Tarjetas Regionales; (iii) Ps.26,133 million for notes issued by Banco Galicia and Tarjetas Regionales; (iv) Ps.16,567 million for amounts payable for future transactions and transactions pending settlement of government securities and foreign currency; and (v) Ps.5,631 million for debt incurred with local financial institutions.

The net asset position in non-adjusted Peso-denominated assets and liabilities was Ps.35,908 million at December 31, 2018.

Peso-Denominated Assets and Liabilities Adjusted by UVA

At December 31, 2018, the net asset position amounted to Ps.15,250 million, which is primarily comprised of Ps.17,474 million for loans, mainly UVA mortgage loans and Ps.984 million for miscellaneous receivables.

With respect to liabilities, Ps.2,481 million was related to UVA-adjusted time deposits and Ps.726 million related to balances of the unemployment fund of construction workers.

Other Assets and Liabilities

As of December 31, 2018, “Other Assets - Liabilities” mainly included the following: (i) property, plant and equipment, miscellaneous and intangible assets for Ps.26,450 million; and (ii) miscellaneous receivables for Ps.1,068 million.

As of December 31, 2018, liabilities mainly included the following: (i) Ps.14,098 million recorded in “Other Non-financial Liabilities”; (ii) Ps.1,100 million for insurance contract liabilities; and (iii) Ps.1,449 million for provisions for other contingencies.

Market Risk

The exposure to portfolios of listed financial instruments, whose value varies according to the movement in their market prices, is subject to a specific policy framework that regulates the risk of incurring a loss as a consequence of the variation of the market price of financial assets whose value is subject to negotiation.

Brokerage transactions and/or investments in government securities, currencies, notes, derivative products and debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank are governed by the policy that limits the maximum tolerable losses in a given fiscal year.

In order to gauge and monitor this source of risk, the model known as VaR is used, among others. This model determines intra-daily, for the Bank individually, the possible loss that could be generated by the positions in equity securities, currencies, derivative instruments, and debt securities issued by the Argentine Central Bank and currencies under certain parameters.


The parameters taken into consideration are as follows:

(i)

A 99% degree of accuracy.

(ii)

VaR estimates are made for holding periods of one day and “n” days, where “n” is defined as the number of days necessary to settle the position in each security.

(iii)

In the case of securities, if they are new issuances, the available trading days are taken into consideration for the calculation of volatilities; if there are not enough trading days or if there are no quotations, the volatility of bonds from domestic issuers with similar risk and characteristics is used.

Banco Galicia’s policy requires that the Risk Management and Treasury Divisions agree on the parameters under which the models work, and establishes the maximum losses authorized both for equity securities, foreign-currency, Argentine Central Bank’s

Banco Galicia’s policy requires that the Risk Management and Treasury Divisions agree on the parameters under which the models work, and establishes the maximum losses authorized for equity securities, foreign-currency, BCRA’s debt instruments and derivative products in a fiscal year. Maximum losses were established in:

 

Risk

Policy on Limits

(in millions of Pesos)

Currency

78

Fixed-income instruments

561

Interest rate derivatives

110

Variable income

1

Policy on Limits
(in millions of Pesos)

Total risk (currency + fixed-income instruments + interest rate derivatives)

4.250

Furthermore, the policy includes the regular undertaking of stress tests, with the goal of which is to assess the risk positions and their results under adverse market conditions. Finally, “contingency plans” were designed for each transaction, which include the actions to be implemented in a critical scenario.

F. Cross-Border Risk

Cross-border risk represents the risk of incurring equity losses as a consequence of the impairment or failure to collect on foreign credit exposures (loans, securities holdings, equity investments, and cash) abroad. It includes risks generated by entering into transactions with public or private counterparties domiciled outside of Argentina.

In order to regulate risk exposures in international jurisdictions, limits were established taking into consideration the jurisdiction’s credit rating, the type of transaction and a maximum exposure acceptable for each counterparty.

The Bank defined its policy by setting maximum exposure limits measured as a percentage of its RPC and taking into account if the counterparty is considered investment grade:

 

Risk

Required Credit Rating

Investment Grade

Not Investment Grade

-Jurisdictional Risk

-International Rating Agency

-No limit

-Maximum limit: 5%

-Counterparty Risk

-International Banking Relations

-Credit Division

Required Credit Rating

Investment Grade

Not Investment Grade

-Jurisdictional Risk

-International Rating Agency-No limit-Maximum limit: 5%

-Counterparty Risk

-International Banking Relations

-Credit Division

-Maximum limit: 15%

-The limit is distributed between financial and foreign trade transactions, thus absorbing local counterparty margin

-Maximum limit: 1%

-Only foreign trade transactions

Overseas Foreign Currency Transfer Risk

With a view towards mitigating the risk resulting from a potential change in domestic laws that may affect overseas foreign currency transfers and in order to meet incurred liabilities, a policy was devised to set a limit for liabilities transferred abroad, as a proportion to total consolidated liabilities. Such ratio was fixed at 15%.

As of December 31, 2018, such exposure was 7.4% over total liabilities.


Risk Exposures in the Non-Financial Public Sector

The Argentine Central Bank imposes restrictions with respect to financing for the non-financial Public Sector and establishes limits in connection with the agencies that can be aided, the types of permitted loans and maximum amounts that can be granted. Such maximum amounts are set on the basis of the Bank’s RPC.

Banco Galicia provides two types of financial assistance to such sector: (i) assistance through the issuance of government securities; and (ii) direct assistance through loans, leasing, corporate securities, discounted notes, overdrafts, guarantees granted, foreign trade transactions, payroll loans, credit cards, etc.thus absorbing local counterparty margin

-Maximum limit: 1%

Risk exposures on loans granted to such sector in national, provincial and municipal jurisdictions are governed by a specific policy, applicable to agencies within such jurisdictions, decentralized entities, companies and trust funds with underlying cash flows from-Only foreign trade transactions

G. Overseas Foreign Currency Transfer Risk

With a view towards mitigating the risk resulting from a potential change in domestic laws that may affect overseas foreign currency transfers and in order to meet incurred liabilities, a policy was devised to set a limit for liabilities transferred abroad, as a proportion to total consolidated liabilities. Such ratio was fixed at 15%.

As of December 31, 2020, such exposure was 5.73% over total liabilities

H. Risk Exposures in the Non-Financial Public Sector

The BCRA imposes restrictions with respect to financing for the non-financial Public Sector and establishes limits in connection with the agencies that can be aided, the types of permitted loans and maximum amounts that can be granted. Such maximum amounts are set on the basis of the Bank’s RPC.

Banco Galicia provides two types of financial assistance to such sector: (i) assistance through the issuance of government securities; and (ii) direct assistance through loans, leasing, corporate securities, discounted notes, overdrafts, guarantees granted, foreign trade transactions, payroll loans, credit cards, etc.

Risk exposures on loans granted to such sector in national, provincial and municipal jurisdictions are governed by a specific policy, applicable to agencies within such jurisdictions, decentralized entities, companies and trust funds with underlying cash flows from the non-financial public sector.

 

Item 12.

Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities

A. Debt Securities

Not applicable.

B. Warrants and Rights

Not applicable.

C. Other Securities

Not applicable.

D. American Depositary Shares

Fees and Charges Applicable to ADS Holders

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making distributions to investors by deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee for depositary services by deductions from cash distributions or by directly billing investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting

D. American Depositary Shares

Fees and Charges Applicable to ADS Holders

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making distributions to investors by deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee for depositary services by deductions from cash distributions or by directly billing investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until its fees for those services are paid.

 

Persons depositing or withdrawing shares must pay

For:

$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs (or portion of 100 ADSs)

•    Issuance of ADSs, including issuances resulting from a distribution of shares or rights or other property

•     Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal, including if the deposit agreement terminates

$0.02 (or less) per ADS

•    Any cash distribution to ADS registered holders

A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities distributed to you had been shares and the shares had been deposited for issuance of ADSs

•     Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited securities which are distributed by the depositary to ADS registered holders

Registration or transfer fees

•    Transfer and registration of shares on our share register to or from the name of the depositary or its agent when you deposit or withdraw shares

Expenses of the depositary

For:

US$.5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs (or portion of 100 ADSs)

•   Issuance of ADSs, including issuances resulting from a distribution of shares or rights or other property

•   Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal, including if the deposit agreement terminates

US$.0.02 (or less) per ADS

•   Any cash distribution to ADS registered holders

A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities distributed to you had been shares and the shares had been deposited for issuance of ADSs

•   Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited securities which are distributed by the depositary to ADS registered holders

Registration or transfer fees

•   Transfer and registration of shares on our share register to or from the name of the depositary or its agent when you deposit or withdraw shares

Expenses of the depositary

•   Cable, telex and facsimile transmissions (when expressly provided in the deposit agreement)

•     Converting foreign currency to Dollars

Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the custodian have to pay on any ADS or share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes, stamp duty or withholding taxes.

•   Converting foreign currency to Dollars

Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the custodian have to pay on any ADS or share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes, stamp duty or withholding taxes.

•   As necessary

Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for servicing the deposited securities

•   As necessary

Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for servicing the deposited securities

•    As necessary

Fees and Direct and Indirect Payments Made by the Depositary to Us

Past Fees and Payments

Grupo Financiero Galicia received a payment of US$267,815 for fiscal year 2018, US$286,530 for fiscal year 2017 and US$280,601 for fiscal year 2016 in relation to continuing annual stock exchange listing fees, standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs (consisting of the expenses of postage and envelopes for mailing


annual and interim financial reports, printing and distributing dividend checks, electronic filing of U.S. federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage, facsimile and telephone calls), accounting fees and legal fees.

Future Fees and Payments

The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, has agreed to reimburse the Company for expenses they incur that are related to establishment and maintenance expenses of the ADSs program. The depositary has agreed to reimburse the Company for its continuing annual stock exchange listing fees and certain accounting and legal fees. The depositary has also agreed to pay the standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs, which consists of the expenses of postage and envelopes for mailing annual and interim financial reports, printing and distributing dividend checks, electronic filing of U.S. federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage, facsimile, and telephone calls. It has also agreed to reimburse the Company annually for certain investor relationship programs or special investor relations promotional activities. There are limits on the amount of expenses for which the depositary will reimburse the Company, but the amount of reimbursement available to the Company is not tied to the amount of fees the depositary collects from investors.

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making distributions to investors by deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee for depositary services by deduction from cash distributions or by directly billing investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until its fees for those services are paid.

We expect to receive a similar reimbursement from the depositary for expenses for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 to the one we received for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Fees and Direct and Indirect Payments Made by the Depositary to Us

Past Fees and Payments

Grupo Financiero Galicia received a payment of US$287,476 for fiscal year 2020, US$283,948for fiscal year 2019 and US$267,815 for fiscal year 2018 in relation to continuing annual stock exchange listing fees, standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs (consisting of the expenses for filing annual and interim financial reports, relevant information reports, processing dividend distribution, electronic filing of U.S. federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage, and telephone and conference calls), accounting fees and legal fees.

Future Fees and Payments

The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, has agreed to reimburse the Company for expenses they incur that are related to establishment and maintenance expenses of the ADSs program. The depositary has agreed to reimburse the Company for its continuing annual stock exchange listing fees and certain accounting and legal fees. The depositary has also agreed to pay the standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs, which consists of the expenses for filing annual and interim financial reports, relevant information reports, processing dividend distributions, electronic filing of U.S. federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage, and telephone and conference calls. It has also agreed to reimburse the Company annually for certain investor relationship programs or special investor relations promotional activities. There are limits on the amount of expenses for which the depositary will reimburse the Company and the amount of reimbursement available to the Company is subject to the amount of fees the depositary collects from investors in any given fiscal year.

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making distributions to investors by deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee for depositary services by deduction from cash distributions or by directly billing investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until its fees for those services are paid.

We expect to receive a similar reimbursement from the depositary for expenses for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021 to the one we received for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.

PART II

 


PART II

Item 13.

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

Not applicable.

Item 14.

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

Item 15.

Controls and Procedures

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as amended). We performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file with or submit to the SEC under the Exchange Act, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial and Compliance Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding the required disclosure. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial and Compliance Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this annual report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance of their reliability. Notwithstanding the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, these disclosure controls and procedures cannot provide absolute assurance of achieving their objectives because of their inherent limitations. Disclosure controls and procedures are processes that involve human diligence and compliance and are subject to error in judgment. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by our disclosure controls and procedures.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

1)

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as amended). We performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file with or submit to the SEC under the Exchange Act, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding the required disclosure. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this annual report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance of their reliability. Notwithstanding the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, these disclosure controls and procedures cannot provide absolute assurance of achieving their objectives because of their inherent limitations. Disclosure controls and procedures are processes that involve human diligence and compliance and are subject to error in judgment. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by our disclosure controls and procedures.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

1) Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for us and our consolidated subsidiaries. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act, as amended, as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive and principal. Our internal control over financial officers, and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel,reporting was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidatedfinancial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

a.

pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;

b.

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles. Internal controlsIFRS and proceduresthat receipts and expenditures of Grupo Galicia are processesbeing made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and

c.

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that involve human diligence and compliance and are subject to error in judgment. could have a material effect on the financial statements

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

2)

Management conducted an evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

2) Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. In making this assessment, management usedbased on the criteria set forthframework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework 2013 issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control–Integrated Framework 2013.COSO.

3)

3) Based on our assessment, we and our management have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2018.2020.


4)

4) Price Waterhouse & Co. S.R.L., an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited theThe effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018,2020 has been audited by PriceWaterhouse & Co. S.R.L., an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report to our consolidated financial statements.which is included herein.

(c) See Item 18. “Financial Statements–Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” for our registered public accounting firm’s attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

(d) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting During the Year Ended December 31, 2018.

(c) Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm. See Item 18. “Financial Statements–Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” for our registered public accounting firm’s attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

(d) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting During the Year Ended December 31, 2020.

During the period covered by this report, there have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 16A.

Audit Committee Financial Expert

Mr. Antonio R. Garcés was the financial expert serving on our Audit Committee for the year ended December 31, 2018. Mr. Garcés also considered independent as such term is defined under Nasdaq National Market listing requirements.

Mr. Daniel Llambías was the financial expert serving on our Audit Committee for fiscal year ended December 31, 2020. For more information about Mr. Llambias, please see Item 6. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees”-“Our Board of Directors”.

Item 16B.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a code of ethics (for Grupo Financiero Galicia and its main subsidiaries) in accordance with the requirements of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We did not modify our code of ethics during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. In addition, we did not grant any waivers to our code of ethics during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

We have adopted a code of ethics (for Grupo Financiero Galicia and its main subsidiaries) in accordance with the requirements of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. During fiscal year 2019, in lieu of the new corporate governance requirements introduced by the CNV, the Company adopted a new Code of Ethics. Additionally, we did not grant any waivers to our code of ethics during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020. In June 2009, we adopted a Code of Best Practices in Corporate Governance in accordance with Argentine legal requirements that received some minor modifications during 2018. During fiscal year 2019, the CNV issued Rule No. 797/2019 (modifying Rule No. 606 and the previous 516) which established new standards for the filing of the Code of Good Practices in Corporate Governance that received some minor modifications for fiscal year 2020. Our Code of Ethics and our Code of Good Practice in Corporate Governance in accordance with Argentine legal requirements that received minor modifications in 2016, 2017 and 2018. On May 23, 2012 the CNV issued Rule No. 606 (modifying Rule No. 516) which established new standards for the filing of the Code of Good Practices in Corporate Governance. Our code of ethics and our code of corporate governance good practices are attached hereto as Exhibits 11.1 and 11.2.

Item 16C.

Principal Accountants’Accountant Fees and Services

The following table sets forth the total amount billed to us by our independent registered public accounting firm, Price Waterhouse & Co. S.R.L., during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in thousands of Pesos)

 

Audit Fees

 

 

67,132

 

 

 

78,627

 

Audit Related Fees

 

 

10,999

 

 

 

16,746

 

Tax Fees

 

 

4,831

 

 

 

11,048

 

All Other Fees

 

 

12,732

 

 

 

8,678

 

Total

 

 

95,694

 

 

 

115,099

 

Audit Fees

Audit fees are mainly the fees billed in relation with professional services for auditing our consolidated financial statements under local and U.S. GAAP requirements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.


Audit-Related Fees

Audit-related fees are fees billed for professional services related to attestation, review and verification services with respect to our financial information and the provision of services in connection with special reports in 2018 and 2017.

The following table sets forth the total amount billed to us by our independent registered public accounting firm, Price Waterhouse & Co. S.R.L., during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

   2020   2019 
   (in thousands of Pesos) 

Audit Fees

   147,661    110,640 

Audit Related Fees

   9,375    16,745 

Tax Fees

Tax fees are fees billed with respect to tax compliance and advisory services related to tax liabilities.

18,23424,706

All Other Fees

23,9338,857

All other fees include fees paid for professional services other than the services reported above under “audit fees”, “audit related fees” and “tax fees” in each of the fiscal periods above.

Audit Committee Pre-approval

Total

199,203160,948

Audit Fees

Audit fees are mainly the fees billed in relation with professional services for auditing our consolidated financial statements under local and IFRS requirements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

Audit-Related Fees

Audit-related fees are fees billed for professional services related to attestation, review and verification services with respect to our financial information and the provision of services in connection with special reports in 2020 and 2019.

Tax Fees

Tax fees are fees billed with respect to tax compliance and advisory services related to tax liabilities.

All Other Fees

All other fees include fees paid for professional services other than the services reported above under “audit fees”, “audit related fees” and “tax fees” in each of the fiscal periods above.

Audit Committee Pre-approval

Our audit committee is required to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm. Our Audit Committee has reviewed and approved audit and non-audit services to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm. Our Audit Committee has reviewed, and approved audit and non-audit services fees proposed by our independent auditors.

Item 16D.

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

Not applicable.

Item 16E.

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

None.

Item 16F.

Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant.

Not applicable.

Item 16G.

Corporate Governance

See Item 6. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees”—“Nasdaq Corporate Governance Standards

See Item 6. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees”—“Nasdaq Corporate Governance Standards” for a summary of ways in which the Company’s corporate governance practices differ from those followed by U.S. companies.

Item 16H.

Mine Safety Disclosure

Not applicable.

PART III


PART III

Item 17.

Financial Statements

Not applicable.

Item 18.

Financial Statements

Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

You can find our audited consolidated financial statements on pages F-1 to F-110 of this annual report.

Item 19.

Exhibits

Exhibit

Description

  1.1Unofficial English language translation of the Bylaws (estatutos sociales).****
  2.1Form of Deposit Agreement between The Bank of New York and the registrant, including the form of American Depositary Receipt.*
  2.2Indenture, dated as of July  19, 2016, among Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., The Bank of New York Mellon, Banco de Valores S.A. and The Bank of New York Mellon (Luxembourg) S.A.***
  2.3Indenture, dated as of April  11, 2017, among Tarjeta Naranja S.A., The Bank of New York Mellon, Banco de Valores S.A. and The Bank of New York Mellon (Luxembourg) S.A.****
  4.1Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of June  1, 2009, among American International Group Inc., AIG Consumer Finance Group, Inc. and Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., and the other parties signatory thereto.**
  4.2Loan Agreement, dated as of May  24, 2016, between Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and International Finance Corporation.***
  4.3Bond Subscription Agreement, dated as of March  23, 2018, between Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and International Finance Corporation.*****
  8.1For a list of our subsidiaries as of the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 as of January 1, 2017.

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

You can find our audited consolidated financial statements on pages F-1 to F-120 ofcovered by this annual report.


report, please see Item 19. 4. “Information on the Company-Organizational Structure”.

11.1Code of Ethics.******
11.2Code of Corporate Governance Good Practices.
12.1Certification of the principal executive officer required under Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule Exhibits15d-14(a),

Exhibit

pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
12.2Certification of the principal financial officer required under Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
13.1

Description

  1.1

Unofficial English language translation of the Bylaws (estatutos sociales).*****

  2.1

Form of Deposit Agreement between The Bank of New York and the registrant, including the form of American Depositary Receipt.*

  2.2

Indenture, dated as of July 19, 2016, among Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., The Bank of New York Mellon, Banco de Valores S.A. and The Bank of New York Mellon (Luxembourg) S.A.****

  2.3

Indenture, dated as of April 11, 2017, among Tarjeta Naranja S.A., The Bank of New York Mellon, Banco de Valores S.A. and The Bank of New York Mellon (Luxembourg) S.A.*****

  4.1

Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 1, 2009, among American International Group Inc., AIG Consumer Finance Group, Inc. and Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., and the other parties signatory thereto.***

  4.2

Loan Agreement, dated as of May 24, 2016, between Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and International Finance Corporation.****

  4.3

Bond Subscription Agreement, dated as of March 23, 2018, between Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and International Finance Corporation.

  8.1

For a list of our subsidiaries as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this annual report, please see Item 4. “Information on the Company-Organizational Structure”.

11.1

Code of Ethics.**

11.2

Code of Corporate Governance Good Practices.*****

12.1

Certification of the principal executive officer required under Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

12.2

Certification of the principal financial officer required under Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

13.1

Certification of the principal executive officer required pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

13.2Certification of the principal financial officer required pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

13.2

Certification of the principal financial officer required pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

*

Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form F-4 (333-11960).
*

Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form F-6.

**

Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2008.

***

Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2009.

****

Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016.

*****

Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2017.


*****

SIGNATURE

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all the requirements for filingIncorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized for the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

By:

/s/ Pedro Alberto Richards

Name:

Pedro Alberto Richards

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

By:

/s/ José Luis Ronsini

Name:

José Luis Ronsini

Title:

Chief Financial Officeryear ended December 31, 2018.

******

Date: May 15, 2019Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019.

SIGNATURE

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.
By:

186/s/ Fabian Kon

Name:Fabian Kon
Title:Chief Executive Officer
By:


/s/ Bruno Folino

Name:Bruno Folino
Title:Chief Financial Officer

Date: April 23, 2021

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, and the related consolidated income statement, statements of other comprehensive income, of changes in shareholders’ equity and of cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”).  We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.  Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.  

Basis for Opinions

The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing on Item 15.  Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.  We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks.  Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.  Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.  Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk.  Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations

F-1


of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PRICE WATERHOUSE & Co. S.R.L.

/s/ SANTIAGO JOSÉ MIGNONE (Partner)

Santiago José Mignone

Buenos Aires, Argentina

May 14, 2019.

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1999.

F-2


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

6

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

87,044,881

 

 

 

121,183,979

 

Cash

 

 

 

 

21,189,989

 

 

 

12,968,191

 

 

 

13,521,127

 

Financial Institutions and Correspondents

 

 

 

 

122,119,439

 

 

 

74,076,690

 

 

 

107,662,852

 

Argentine Central Bank (B.C.R.A.)

 

 

 

 

119,190,612

 

 

 

72,783,631

 

 

 

103,048,831

 

Other Local and Foreign Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

2,928,827

 

 

 

1,293,059

 

 

 

4,614,021

 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

 

7

 

 

75,935,163

 

 

 

42,747,797

 

 

 

28,817,744

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

8

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

229,436

 

Repo Transactions

 

9

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

10

 

 

9,047,932

 

 

 

10,339,256

 

 

 

6,719,581

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

11

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

284,354,759

 

 

 

245,703,421

 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

 

 

11,777

 

 

 

8,532

 

 

 

26,457

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

 

 

533

 

 

 

3,604

 

 

 

5,318

 

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

7,519,894

 

 

 

6,706,238

 

 

 

4,926,816

 

To the Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

275,177,864

 

 

 

277,636,385

 

 

 

240,744,830

 

Other Debt Securities

 

12

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

4,182,537

 

 

 

3,183,852

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

13

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

9,346,788

 

 

 

10,095,593

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

14

 

 

94,918

 

 

 

134,740

 

 

 

234,931

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

15

 

 

161,054

 

 

 

111,923

 

 

 

187,135

 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

16

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

286,802

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

17 and 18

 

 

19,362,585

 

 

 

18,209,015

 

 

 

16,348,360

 

Intangible Assets

 

19

 

 

4,587,147

 

 

 

1,724,914

 

 

 

1,660,793

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

20

 

 

972,975

 

 

 

762,570

 

 

 

1,035,260

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

21

 

 

982,502

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

 

 

988,723

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

22

 

 

2,824,769

 

 

 

3,738,130

 

 

 

3,019,668

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

23

 

 

608,015

 

 

 

10,860,091

 

 

 

10,919,116

 

Total Assets

 

 

 

 

569,691,898

 

 

 

489,641,114

 

 

 

450,614,394

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-3


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

24

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

296,367,356

 

 

 

277,077,562

 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

 

 

8,569,383

 

 

 

1,718,782

 

 

 

2,385,071

 

Financial Sector

 

 

 

 

711,737

 

 

 

170,017

 

 

 

116,002

 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

350,816,155

 

 

 

294,478,557

 

 

 

274,576,489

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

25

 

 

2,144,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

8

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

846,331

 

 

 

290,384

 

Repo Transactions

 

9

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

3,030,473

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

26

 

 

63,235,042

 

 

 

55,350,799

 

 

 

57,094,776

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial

   Institutions

 

27

 

 

19,446,028

 

 

 

11,618,302

 

 

 

12,717,145

 

Debt Securities

 

28

 

 

29,983,653

 

 

 

20,279,165

 

 

 

21,848,460

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

42

 

 

3,457,609

 

 

 

3,578,529

 

 

 

3,159,343

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

29

 

 

9,767,874

 

 

 

7,128,356

 

 

 

7,490,444

 

Provisions

 

30

 

 

1,449,323

 

 

 

897,260

 

 

 

709,213

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

20

 

 

1,903,646

 

 

 

2,088,540

 

 

 

1,843,597

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

21

 

 

1,103,220

 

 

 

1,195,647

 

 

 

1,154,162

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

31

 

 

11,471,530

 

 

 

21,142,454

 

 

 

18,525,957

 

Total Liabilities

 

 

 

 

507,844,212

 

 

 

422,162,798

 

 

 

404,941,516

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

32

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital Stock

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

1,300,265

 

Non-capitalized Contributions

 

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

219,596

 

Capital Adjustments

 

 

 

 

22,479,149

 

 

 

22,479,149

 

 

 

16,354,236

 

Profit Reserves

 

 

 

 

43,678,169

 

 

 

32,381,351

 

 

 

23,099,764

 

Retained Income

 

 

 

 

(14,945,645

)

 

 

(9,596,038

)

 

 

1,455,826

 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

 

 

1,404

 

 

 

88,889

 

 

 

523,621

 

Net (Loss) / Income for the Year

 

44

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

6,793,588

 

 

 

-

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

 

 

60,125,152

 

 

 

64,524,836

 

 

 

42,953,308

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

51

 

 

1,722,534

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

 

 

2,719,570

 

Total Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

61,847,686

 

 

 

67,478,316

 

 

 

45,672,878

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-4


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Interest Income

 

33

 

 

78,273,788

 

 

 

54,693,722

 

Interest Expense

 

33

 

 

(44,910,325

)

 

 

(24,819,687

)

Net Income from Interest

 

 

 

 

33,363,463

 

 

 

29,874,035

 

Fee Income

 

33

 

 

23,264,260

 

 

 

25,398,461

 

Fee related Expenses

 

33

 

 

(3,026,097

)

 

 

(3,252,835

)

Net Fee Income

 

 

 

 

20,238,163

 

 

 

22,145,626

 

Net Income from Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value through Profit

   or Loss

 

33

 

 

17,352,718

 

 

 

8,461,338

 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

 

 

 

 

221,639

 

 

 

-

 

Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

 

34

 

 

3,777,071

 

 

 

3,478,861

 

Other Operating Income

 

35

 

 

11,571,913

 

 

 

8,996,632

 

Underwriting Income from Insurance Business

 

36

 

 

2,869,319

 

 

 

3,314,912

 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

37

 

 

(16,299,727

)

 

 

(7,293,856

)

Net Operating Income

 

 

 

 

73,094,559

 

 

 

68,977,548

 

Personnel Expenses

 

38

 

 

(17,026,247

)

 

 

(17,088,672

)

Administrative Expenses

 

39

 

 

(16,079,154

)

 

 

(14,423,557

)

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

40

 

 

(1,651,975

)

 

 

(1,439,440

)

Other Operating Expenses

 

41

 

 

(16,899,065

)

 

 

(14,605,226

)

Loss on net monetary position

 

 

 

 

(18,063,668

)

 

 

(6,823,296

)

Operating Income

 

 

 

 

3,374,450

 

 

 

14,597,357

 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

321,182

 

Income from Continuing Operations before Taxes

 

 

 

 

3,374,450

 

 

 

14,918,539

 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

42

 

 

(6,912,526

)

 

 

(7,319,027

)

Net Income from Continuing Operations

 

 

 

 

(3,538,076

)

 

 

7,599,512

 

Loss from Discontinued Operations

 

23

 

 

(259,756

)

 

 

-

 

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

 

42

 

 

(31,675

)

 

 

(321,760

)

Net (Loss) / Income for the Year

 

 

 

 

(3,829,507

)

 

 

7,277,752

 

(Loss) / Income for the Year Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

6,793,588

 

(Loss) / Income for the  Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

51

 

 

(363,685

)

 

 

484,164

 

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

(Loss) / Income per Share

 

44

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) / Income Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

6,793,588

 

(Loss) / Income Attributable to owners of the Parent Adjusted for Dilution

 

 

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

6,793,588

 

Weighted-Average of Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the Year

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

1,332,617

 

Diluted Weighted-Average of Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the Year

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

1,332,617

 

Basic (Loss) / Income per Share

 

 

 

 

(2.43

)

 

 

5.10

 

Diluted (Loss) / Income per Share

 

 

 

 

(2.43

)

 

 

5.10

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-5


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

(Loss) / Income for the Year

 

 

 

 

(3,829,507

)

 

 

7,277,752

 

Items of Other Comprehensive Income that may be Reclassified to Profit or

   Loss for the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income or Loss from Financial Instruments at Fair Value through

   OCI (Other Comprehensive Income) (Item 4.1.2a of IFRS 9)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (Loss) for the Year from Financial Instruments at Fair Value with

   Changes through OCI(*)

 

33

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

(434,732

)

Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) that may be Reclassified to

   Profit or Loss for the Year

 

 

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

(434,732

)

Total Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

 

 

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

(434,732

)

Total Comprehensive ( Loss) / Income

 

 

 

 

(3,916,992

)

 

 

6,843,020

 

Total Comprehensive (Loss) / Income Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

 

 

(3,553,307

)

 

 

6,358,856

 

Total Comprehensive (Loss) / Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

51

 

 

(363,685

)

 

 

484,164

 

(*)

Net of Income Tax.

F-7

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-6


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

Capital

Stock

 

 

Non-

capitalized

Contributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Comprehensive

Income

 

 

Profit Reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movements

 

Notes

 

Outstanding

 

 

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

 

 

Adjustments

to  Shareholders'

Equity

 

 

Accumulated Income

(Loss) from

Financial

Instruments

at Fair  Value

through OCI

 

 

Others

 

 

Legal

Reserve

 

 

Others

 

 

Retained

Income

 

 

Total

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

Total

Shareholders’

Equity

Attributable

to  Non-Controlling

Interests

 

 

Total

Shareholders’

Equity

 

Balances as of 12.31.17

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

278,131

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

315,679

 

 

 

17,999,029

 

 

 

8,329,469

 

 

 

39,300,205

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

39,300,205

 

Impact of first time adoption of IFRS

 

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22,201,018

 

 

 

88,889

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

265,977

 

 

 

13,800,666

 

 

 

(11,131,919

)

 

 

25,224,631

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

 

 

28,178,111

 

Balances as of 12.31.17

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

22,479,149

 

 

 

88,889

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

581,656

 

 

 

31,799,695

 

 

 

(2,802,450

)

 

 

64,524,836

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

 

 

67,478,316

 

Purchase of Non-controlling Interests

 

51

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

770,472

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

770,472

 

 

 

(770,472

)

 

 

-

 

Distribution of Dividends

   from Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

51

 

 

-

 

��

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(96,789

)

 

 

(96,789

)

Distribution of Profits (*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Cash Dividends

 

43

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,616,849

)

 

 

(1,616,849

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,616,849

)

- Other Reserves

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

37,354

 

 

 

10,488,992

 

 

 

(10,526,346

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Total Comprehensive Income for the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Net Loss for the Year

 

44

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

(363,685

)

 

 

(3,829,507

)

Other Comprehensive Income

   (Loss) for the Year

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(87,485

)

Balances as of 12.31.18

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

22,479,149

 

 

 

1,404

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

619,010

 

 

 

43,059,159

 

 

 

(18,411,467

)

 

 

60,125,152

 

 

 

1,722,534

 

 

 

61,847,686

 

(*)

Approved by Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 24, 2018. See Note 43.

F-8

F-7


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

Capital

Stock

 

 

Non-

capitalized

Contributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Comprehensive

Income

 

 

Profit Reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movements

 

Notes

 

Outstanding

 

 

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

 

 

Adjustments

to  Shareholders'

Equity

 

 

Accumulated Income

(Loss) from

Financial

Instruments

at Fair  Value

through OCI

 

 

Others

 

 

Legal

Reserve

 

 

Others

 

 

Retained

Income

 

 

Total

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

Total

Shareholders’

Equity

Attributable

to  Non-Controlling

Interests

 

 

Total

Shareholders’

Equity

 

Balances as of 01.01.17

 

 

 

 

1,300,265

 

 

 

219,596

 

 

 

278,131

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

315,679

 

 

 

12,221,152

 

 

 

6,017,877

 

 

 

20,352,700

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

20,352,700

 

Impact of first time adoption of IFRS

 

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16,076,105

 

 

 

523,621

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

265,977

 

 

 

10,296,956

 

 

 

(4,562,051

)

 

 

22,600,608

 

 

 

2,719,570

 

 

 

25,320,178

 

Balances as of 01.01.17

 

 

 

 

1,300,265

 

 

 

219,596

 

 

 

16,354,236

 

 

 

523,621

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

581,656

 

 

 

22,518,108

 

 

 

1,455,826

 

 

 

42,953,308

 

 

 

2,719,570

 

 

 

45,672,878

 

Disposal of Equity Interest in

   Tarjeta del Mar S.A.

 

51

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(91,871

)

 

 

(91,871

)

Purchase of Non-controlling Interests

 

51

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,364,452

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,364,452

)

 

 

(5,688

)

 

 

(1,370,140

)

Distribution of Dividends

   from Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

51

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(152,695

)

 

 

(152,695

)

Distribution of Profits (*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Cash Dividends

 

43

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(405,825

)

 

 

(405,825

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(405,825

)

- Other Reserves

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,646,039

 

 

 

(10,646,039

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Capital Increase (**)

 

32

 

 

126,500

 

 

 

10,731,536

 

 

 

6,124,913

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

16,982,949

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

16,982,949

 

Total Comprehensive Income

   for the Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income for the Year

 

44

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,793,588

 

 

 

6,793,588

 

 

 

484,164

 

 

 

7,277,752

 

Other Comprehensive Income

   (Loss) for the Year

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

Balances as of 12.31.17

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

10,951,132

 

 

 

22,479,149

 

 

 

88,889

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

581,656

 

 

 

31,799,695

 

 

 

(2,802,450

)

 

 

64,524,836

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

 

 

67,478,316

 

*

Approved by Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 25, 2017. See Note 43.

**

Approved by Shareholders’ Meeting held on August 15, 2017. See Note 32.

F-8


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($), Except as Otherwise Stated

Items

 

Notes

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income from Continuing Operations for the Year before Income Tax

 

 

 

 

3,374,450

 

 

 

14,918,539

 

Adjustment to Obtain the Operating Activities Flows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Income

 

 

 

 

(78,273,788

)

 

 

(54,693,722

)

Interest Expenses

 

 

 

 

44,910,325

 

 

 

24,819,687

 

Net Loss from Instruments measured at Fair Value through profit or loss

 

 

 

 

(17,352,718

)

 

 

(8,461,338

)

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

 

 

16,299,727

 

 

 

7,293,856

 

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

 

 

 

1,651,975

 

 

 

1,439,440

 

Other Allowances

 

 

 

 

2,023,052

 

 

 

360,525

 

Quotation Difference

 

 

 

 

9,709,820

 

 

 

1,536,329

 

Share of profit  from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(321,182

)

Loss from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

 

 

 

 

(221,639

)

 

 

-

 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

 

 

 

 

45,377,724

 

 

 

18,582,733

 

Other Operations

 

 

 

 

389,777

 

 

 

588,501

 

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt securities measured at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

 

 

40,437,672

 

 

 

8,775,726

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

 

 

1,045,359

 

 

 

(563,420

)

Repo Transactions

 

 

 

 

762,799

 

 

 

1,250,915

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

 

 

28,040

 

 

 

(3,959,689

)

Net Loans and Other Financing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

 

 

(11,316

)

 

 

2,503

 

- Other Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

1,369,146

 

 

 

(881,125

)

- Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

140,346,130

 

 

 

11,462,657

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

(5,262,779

)

 

 

(1,080,178

)

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

 

 

(985,842

)

 

 

748,802

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

 

 

154,138

 

 

 

258,282

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

 

 

(511,478

)

 

 

(5,910,500

)

Cash flows from Discontinued Operations

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,580,060

 

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

 

 

6,827,031

 

 

 

(666,289

)

- Financial Sector

 

 

 

 

(2,973,910

)

 

 

(1,122,948

)

- Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

 

 

(109,471,091

)

 

 

(5,263,874

)

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

 

 

1,137,374

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

 

 

885,047

 

 

 

(40,008

)

Repo Transactions

 

 

 

 

(2,224,327

)

 

 

(1,718,536

)

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

 

 

23,336

 

 

 

(7,150,088

)

Provisions

 

 

 

 

(79,809

)

 

 

(121,343

)

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

 

 

(6,260,869

)

 

 

(1,553,016

)

Income Tax Collections/Payments

 

 

 

 

(6,857,503

)

 

 

(4,298,523

)

NET CASH GENERATED BY /  (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES (A)

 

 

 

 

86,265,853

 

 

 

(4,187,224

)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTMENT Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

 

 

 

 

(3,687,956

)

 

 

(3,260,097

)

Purchase of Non-controlling Interests

 

 

 

 

(770,472

)

 

 

(97,559

)

Other Payments Related to Investing Activities

 

 

 

 

(4,598

)

 

 

(249,723

)

Collections:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sale of PP&E, Intangible Assets and Other Assets

 

 

 

 

49,204

 

 

 

738,231

 

Other Collections Related to Investing Activities

 

 

 

 

513,337

 

 

 

-

 

Dividends Earned

 

 

 

 

362,501

 

 

 

207,120

 

Discontinued Operations/Sale of Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

 

 

1,331,209

 

 

 

1,019,208

 

NET CASH USED IN INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES (B)

 

 

 

 

(2,206,775

)

 

 

(1,642,820

)

CASH FLOWS FROM  FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

(6,127,336

)

 

 

(16,976,255

)

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

 

 

(2,987

)

 

 

(15,312

)

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

(593,437

)

 

 

(563,241

)

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

(3,905,074

)

 

 

(3,237,409

)

Banks and International Entities

 

 

 

 

(10,354,132

)

 

 

(284,627

)

Dividends

 

43

 

 

(1,616,849

)

 

 

(405,825

)

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(987,404

)

Other Payments Related to Financing Activities

 

 

 

 

(45,510

)

 

 

-

 

Collections:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

17,507,193

 

 

 

15,918,287

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

 

 

13,521

 

 

 

19,587

 

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

 

 

 

 

6,433,252

 

 

 

982,914

 

Banks and International Entities

 

 

 

 

9,088,627

 

 

 

3,858,010

 

Equity Instruments Issued

 

32

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,212,307

 

NET CASH GENERATED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES (C)

 

 

 

 

10,397,268

 

 

 

15,521,032

 

EXCHANGE INCOME/(LOSSES) ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (D)

 

 

 

 

44,831,615

 

 

 

(2,787,992

)

NET (DECREASE)/INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (A+B+C+D)

 

 

 

 

139,287,961

 

 

 

6,902,996

 

MONETARY LOSS RELATED TO CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

 

 

(45,377,724

)

 

 

(18,582,733

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

 

6

 

 

131,958,216

 

 

 

143,637,953

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF THE YEAR

 

6

 

 

225,868,453

 

 

 

131,958,216

 


F-11

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

F-12


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related consolidated statements of income, other comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2020, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2020 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 15. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements, and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Fair value of certain level 3 financial instruments

As described in Notes 2.a and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company carries Ps. 172,308,916 thousands of its assets and Ps. 57,450 thousands of its liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2020. Included in these balances are Ps. 8,452,798 thousands of financial assets classified as level 3, as its valuation involves one or more inputs which are unobservable and significant to their fair value measurement. The Company used valuation models and unobservable inputs, including projected cash flows, discount rates and volatilities and correlations relating to interest rates and spreads, to estimate the fair value of the level 3 financial instruments. These valuation techniques require management to make significant estimates and judgments.

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the fair value of certain level 3 financial instruments is a critical audit matter are: (i) there was significant judgment by management in evaluating the models and determining the inputs, such as projected cash flows, discount rates and volatilities and correlations relating to interest rates and spreads, used to estimate fair value; and (ii) the audit procedures performed related to the assessment of the fair value of these financial instruments involved a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort, as well as the use of professionals with specialized skills and knowledge to assist in performing procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the Company’s processes for determining fair value of level 3 financial instruments which include controls over models, inputs, and data. These procedures also included, among others, for a sample of financial instruments, the use of professionals with specialized skills and knowledge to assist in developing an independent fair value estimate and testing management’s process to determine the fair value of these financial instruments. Developing the independent estimate involved testing the completeness and accuracy of data provided by management, developing independent significant unobservable inputs, and comparing management’s estimate to the independently developed estimate of fair value. Testing management’s process included evaluating the reasonableness of the aforementioned significant unobservable inputs, evaluating the appropriateness of the methods used, and testing the completeness and accuracy of data provided by management to determine the fair value of these instruments.

Allowance for loan losses

As described in Notes 1.11, 2.b and 45 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s allowance for loan losses was Ps. 37,332,952 thousands as of December 31, 2020. The Company assesses impairment by estimating the expected credit losses. Management’s models to determine the expected credit loss involve significant judgement, which includes defining what constitutes a significant increase in credit risk, identifying assets which are impaired or subject to serious risk of impairment, making assumptions about macroeconomic scenarios considering a range of possible economic outcomes, calculated on a probability-weighted basis, and estimating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic as a post-model adjustment.

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the estimation of the allowance for loan losses is a critical audit matter are: (i) there was significant judgment by management in assessing impairment by estimating the expected credit losses; and (ii) the audit procedures performed related to the assessment of the valuation of the allowance for loan losses involved significant auditor judgment and effort, as well as the use of professionals with specialized skills and knowledge to assist in performing procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management’s allowance for loan losses estimation processes, which included controls over the data, models and assumptions used in the estimation process. These procedures also included, among others; (i) evaluating the appropriateness of the models used by the Company to estimate parameters such as the probability of default and the loss given default; (ii) evaluating the reasonableness of the Company’s definition of significant increase in credit risk and identifying assets which are impaired or subject to serious risk of impairment; (iii) evaluating the reasonableness of the process followed by the Company to develop macroeconomic scenarios and their weighting; (iv) evaluating the reasonableness of the process followed by the Company to estimate the post-model adjustment and (v) testing the completeness and accuracy of the data provided by management.

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($) and Thousands of U.S. Dollars (US$), Except as Otherwise Stated

NOTE 1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS FOR PREPARATION

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. (individually referred to as the “Company” and jointly with its subsidiaries as the “Group”) was constituted on September 14, 1999, as a financial services holding company organized under the laws of Argentina. The Company’s main asset is its interest in Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. ("Banco Galicia" or the “Bank”) which is a private-sector bank that offers a full spectrum of financial services both to individuals and corporate customers. In addition, the Company has a controlling interest in Tarjetas Regionales S.A., which maintains investments related to the issuance of credit cards and supplementary services; Sudamericana Holding S.A., a company engaged in the insurance business; Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A., a mutual fund manager, and Galicia Warrants S.A., a company engaged in the issuance of warrants.

These consolidated financial statements were approved and authorized for publication through Minutes of Board of Directors’ Meeting No. 586 dated May 14, 2019.

1.1.FIRST-TIME ADOPTION OF INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (IFRS)

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance and in compliance with the International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the IASB and the interpretations of the IFRIC (jointly, “IFRS”). All the IFRSs in force as of the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements have been applied. The Group has applied IFRSs for the first time during the fiscal year starting on January 1, 2018, the transition date being January 1, 2017.

In the light of the fact that the Group is subject to the provisions of Article 2 – Section I – Chapter I of Title IV: Periodical Reporting Requirements of the National Securities Commission (“C.N.V.”) regulations, it is also required to present its financial statements in accordance with the valuation and disclosure criteria set forth by the Argentine Central Bank. As required by the aforementioned article, we hereby report that:

-

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.’s corporate purpose is exclusively related to financial and investment activities;

-

The equity investment in Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and Tarjetas Regionales S.A., the latter being subject to the consolidated supervision requirements laid down by the Argentine Central Bank (Communiqué “A” 2989, and complementary), accounts for 94.68% of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.'s assets, being the Company’s main asset.

-

110.29% of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.’s income is derived from its share of profit (loss) in the entities referred to in the preceding paragraph;

-

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has a 100% equity interest in Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and an 83% equity interest in Tarjetas Regionales S.A., thus having control over both entities.

The Argentine Central Bank, through Communiqué “A” 5541, as amended, set forth a convergence plan towards the application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the interpretations issued by the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC), for entities under the its supervision, effective for fiscal years commencing January 1, 2018. The convergence plan had two exceptions to the application of IFRS: (i) item 5.5 (Impairment) of IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”, and (ii) IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies”, both of which were waived until January 1, 2020, at which time entities will be required to apply the provisions of IFRS in full. The Group has presented its local financial statements under these rules on March 7, 2019. Shareholders’ equity under the rules of the Argentine Central Bank is presented in Note 54.

The Group's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 have been prepared in accordance with IFRS 1 “First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards.”

Comparative figures and figures as of the transition date (January 1, 2017) have been modified conform to IFRS.

Note 3 presents a reconciliation of the figures disclosed in the consolidated balance sheet, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of other comprehensive income, and consolidated statement of cash flows comprising the consolidated financial statements issued under the prior accounting framework to the figures in accordance with IFRS, as well as the effects of adjustments to cash flows as of the transition date (January 1, 2017) and as of the adoption date (December 31, 2017).

F-10


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/s/ PRICE WATERHOUSE & Co. S.R.L.

 

It has been concluded that these consolidated financial statements fairly present the Group's financial position, financial performance and cash flows, in accordance with IFRS./s/ SEBASTIÁN MORAZZO (Partner)

1.2.BASIS FOR PREPARATIONSebastián Morazzo

Buenos Aires, Argentina

April 23, 2021.

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1999.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

                                                                     

Items

  Notes   12.31.20  12.31.19 

Assets

     

Cash and Due from Banks

   5    175,423,476   177,866,399 

Cash

     66,932,871   71,784,839 

Financial Institutions and Correspondents

     108,490,605   106,081,560 

Argentine Central Bank (BCRA)

     102,597,603   102,843,651 

Other, Local and Foreign Financial Institutions

     5,893,002   3,237,909 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   6    155,419,560   89,431,378 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   7    2,165,032   3,170,815 

Repurchase Transactions

   8    60,995,643   40,944,933 

Other Financial Assets

   9    10,093,626   14,860,200 

Loans and Other Financing

   10    526,434,119   488,144,152 

Non-financial Public Sector

     334   9,297 

Argentine Central Bank (BCRA)

     13,195   30,460 

Other Financial Institutions

     14,700,600   14,697,129 

To the Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

     548,953,562   508,591,528 

Allowances

     (37,233,572  (35,184,262

Other Debt Securities

   11    23,070,377   25,893,436 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   12    18,717,443   15,725,036 

Current Income Tax Assets

   13    197,094   55,141 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   14    5,711,684   6,200,459 

Equity investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

   15    89,142   —   

Property, Plant and Equipment

   16 and 17    43,731,420   44,877,360 

Intangible Assets

   18    14,468,821   11,834,308 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

   19    9,212,595   3,821,378 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

   20    1,885,390   1,608,517 

Other Non-financial Assets

   21    7,634,427   8,782,988 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

   22    29,328   53,106 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Assets

     1,055,279,177   933,269,606 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-4


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (Continued)

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

                                                                     

Items

  Notes   12.31.20  12.31.19 

Liabilities

     

Deposits

   23    676,395,735   536,033,696 

Non-financial Public Sector

     21,537,481   2,631,790 

Financial Sector

     1,947,127   613,904 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

     652,911,127   532,788,002 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

   24    —     1,936,133 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   7    57,450   1,199,533 

Other Financial Liabilities

   25    97,471,465   97,153,624 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   26    13,833,439   30,936,161 

Debt Securities

   27    17,073,898   39,808,666 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

   41    15,227,474   14,042,235 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   28    21,653,546   21,100,718 

Provisions

   29    3,776,297   3,739,734 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

   19    136,934   3,020,554 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

   20    2,060,976   1,999,408 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   30    25,258,228   23,239,327 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

     872,945,442   774,209,789 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity

   31    

Capital Stock

     1,474,692   1,426,765 

Paid-in capital

     17,281,187   10,951,132 

Capital Adjustments

     61,548,313   60,622,637 

Profit Reserves

     178,751,308   127,248,745 

Retained Deficit

     (102,255,270  (77,955,542

Other Comprehensive Income

     341,829   551,139 

Income / (Loss) for the Year

   43    25,191,673   32,276,377 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to Parent Company´s Owners

     182,333,732   155,121,253 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   50    3   3,938,564 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Shareholders’ Equity

     182,333,735   159,059,817 
    

 

 

  

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE THREE YEARS IN THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

Items

  Notes   12.31.20  12.31.19  12.31.18 

Interest Income

   32    166,806,678   177,671,454   163,927,492 

Interest Expense

   32    (90,174,458  (130,254,081  (94,054,946

Net Income from Interest

     76,632,220   47,417,373   69,872,546 

Fee Income

   32    46,475,432   47,846,733   51,093,837 

Fee related Expenses

   32    (9,917,873  (9,613,497  (6,337,505

Net Fee Income

     36,557,559   38,233,236   44,756,332 

Net Income from Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   32    69,331,902   99,151,496   36,341,509 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

     (3,129  298,801   464,175 

Exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency

   33    7,047,447   11,831,452   7,910,257 

Other Operating Income

   34    22,322,631   28,769,432   21,862,980 

Income from Insurance Business

   35    5,501,807   5,000,869   6,009,167 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

   36    (34,679,749  (30,227,668  (34,136,247

Net Operating Income

     182,710,688   200,474,991   153,080,719 

Personnel Expenses

   37    (31,825,101  (33,284,961  (35,657,786

Administrative Expenses

   38    (31,371,622  (33,105,199  (33,674,305

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

   39    (8,284,286  (6,894,944  (3,459,704

Other Operating Expenses

   40    (30,763,761  (35,082,818  (35,391,431

Loss on net monetary position

     (36,963,213  (41,928,902  (37,830,439

Operating Income

     43,502,705   50,178,167   7,067,054 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

   15    (125,053  —     —   

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

     43,377,652   50,178,167   7,067,054 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

   41    (17,844,872  (17,750,682  (14,476,788

Net Income / (Loss) from Continuing Operations

     25,532,780   32,427,485   (7,409,734

Loss from Discontinued Operations

   22    —     —     (544,003

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

   41    —     —     (66,336
    

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year

     25,532,780   32,427,485   (8,020,073
    

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year Attributable to parent company´s owners

     25,191,673   32,276,377   (7,258,414

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   50    341,107   151,108   (761,659

Items

  Notes   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Earnings per Share

   43       

Net Income / (Loss) Attributable to parent company´s owners

     25,191,673    32,276,377    (7,258,414

Net Income / (Loss) Attributable to parent company´s owners Adjusted by dilution effects

     25,191,673    32,276,377    (7,258,414

Weighted-Average of Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the Year

     1,442,740    1,426,765    1,426,765 

Diluted Weighted-Average of Ordinary Shares Outstanding for the Year

     1,442,740    1,426,765    1,426,765 

Basic Earnings per Share

     17.46    22.62    (5.09

Diluted Earnings per Share

     17.46    22.62    (5.09

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE THREE YEARS IN THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

Items

  Notes   12.31.20  12.31.19   12.31.18 

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year

     25,532,780   32,427,485    (8,020,073

Items of Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) that may be Reclassified to Profit or Loss for the Year

       

Income or Loss from Financial Instruments at Fair Value through OCI (Item 4.1.2a, IFRS 9)

       

Income / (Loss) for the Year from Financial Instruments at Fair Value with Changes through OCI (*)

   32    (203,783  533,607    (183,218

Other Comprehensive Income(*)

     (5,527  14,591    —   

Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) that may be Reclassified to Profit or Loss for the Year

     (209,310  548,198    (183,218

Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

     (209,310  548,198    (183,218
    

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

     25,323,470   32,975,683    (8,203,291
    

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss) Attributable to Parent company´s owners

     24,982,363   32,824,575    (7,441,632

Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   50    341,107   151,108    (761,659

(*)

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The preparationNet of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Groups´ accounting policies. The areas involving higher degree of judgement or complexities or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 2.

(a)Going Concern

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, there are no uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt upon the Group´s ability to continue as a going concern.

(b)Measurement Unit

IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies” requires that the financial statements of an entity whose functional currency is that of a hyperinflationary economy be restated in terms of the current measurement unit as of the reporting period-end, irrespective of whether they are based on the historical cost or the current cost method. Accordingly, in general terms, non-monetary items should be adjusted for inflation occurring since the acquisition date or since the revaluation date, as the case may be. These requirements are also applicable to the comparative information reported in the financial statements. According to IAS 29, monetary assets and liabilities are not required to be restated, for they are stated in the measurement unit as of the end of the reporting period. Assets and liabilities subject to adjustments based on specific agreements will be adjusted on the basis of such agreements. Non-monetary items measured at their fair values at the end of the reporting period, such as net realizable value or otherwise, will not be restated. The other non-monetary assets and liabilities will be restated by applying a general price index. The income (loss) from the net monetary position will be charged to net income for the reporting period in a separate item.

In order to conclude whether a given economy qualifies as hyperinflationary pursuant to the terms of IAS 29, the standard sets forth certain factors that should be considered, including a three-year cumulative inflation rate reaching or exceeding 100%.

In this regard, the Argentine Federation of Professional Councils in Economic Sciences (F.A.C.P.C.E.) through Resolution J.G.539/18 and the Professional Council in Economic Sciences of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (C.P.C.E.C.A.B.A.) through Resolution C.D. 107/2018 have pointed out that, effective for fiscal years ending on July 1, 2018 and thereafter, entities reporting under IFRS will be required to apply IAS 29 since the conditions for such application have been satisfied. In addition, Law No. 27468 enacted in November 2018 abrogated the prohibition to present the financial statements adjusted for inflation, as established by Decree 664/2003, entrusting each regulatory agency with its application. In this regard, on December 26, 2018, the C.N.V. issued General Resolution No. 777/2018 authorizing the issuing entities to present accounting information in constant currency for annual financial statements for interim and special periods ending on December 31, 2018 and thereafter, except for financial institutions and insurance companies.

On February 22, 2019, through Communiqué "A" 6651, the Argentine Central Bank established that entities subject to its control shall restate the financial statements into constant currency for the fiscal years commencing January 1, 2020. However the Group has applied IAS 29 in these consolidated financial statements in order for them to comply with IFRS.

(c)Changes in Accounting Criteria/New Accounting Standards

Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for December 31, 2018 reporting periods and have not been early adopted by the Group. The Group’s assessment of the impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below.

IFRS 16 “Leases”: IFRS 16 was issued in January 2016. It will result in almost all leases being recognised on the balance sheet by lessees, as the distinction between operating and finance leases is removed. Under the new standard, an asset (the right to use the leased item) and a financial liability to pay rentals are recognised. The only exceptions are short-term and low-value leases as provided for in IAS 17. However, the new accounting model for lessee is expected to have an impact on negotiations between lessors and lessees. Entities are required to apply IFRS 16 for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2019.

The application of such standard is expected to cause an increase of about $2.500 million in total assets for recording the right of use of assets net of their accumulated depreciation, coupled with an increase for the same amount in liabilities for recording the financial liability arising from the lease.

F-11


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

IFRS 17 “Insurance Contracts”: On May 18, 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 “Insurance Contracts,” establishing a comprehensive accounting framework based on measurement and disclosure principles for insurance contracts. The new standard supersedes IFRS 4 “Insurance Contracts,” and requires entities to measure an insurance contract at initial recognition at the total of the fulfilment cash flows (comprising the estimated future cash flows, an adjustment to reflect the time value of money and an explicit risk adjustment for non-financial risk) and the contractual service margin. The fulfilment cash flows are remeasured on a current basis each reporting period. The unearned profit (contractual service margin) is recognized over the coverage period. Entities are required to apply IFRS 17 for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2021. The Group is assessing the potential impact this standard will have on its financial statements.

IFRIC 23 “Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment”: This interpretation clarifies how the recognition and measurement requirements of IAS 12 “Income Tax” are applied when there is uncertainty over the income tax treatment. IFRIC 23 was published in June 2017 and entities will be required to apply it for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2019.Tax.

Prepayment Features with Negative Compensation – Amendments to IFRS 9: This amendment to IFRS 9 enables entities to measure at amortized cost some prepayable financial assets with negative compensation. The assets affected, that include some loans and debt securities, would otherwise have been measured at fair value through profit or loss. To qualify for amortized cost measurement, the negative compensation must be “reasonable compensation for early termination of the contract” and the asset must be held within a ‘held to collect’ business model. Entities are required to apply this amendment to IFRS 9 for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2019. The Group believes that the application of this standard will not have a material impact.

Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Amendments to IAS 28: The amendments clarify the accounting for investments in associates and joint ventures for which the equity method is not applied. Entities shall account for such investments according to IFRS 9 "Financial Instruments". This includes the impairment requirements in IFRS 9. Entities are required to apply the amendments to IAS 28 for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2019. The Group believes that the application of this standard will not have a material impact.

Annual Improvements to IFRS 2015–2017 Cycle: The following improvements were agreed in December 2017.

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020, IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

      Capital
Stock
   Paid-in
Capital
       Other Comprehensive
Income
  Profit Reserves             

Changes

  Notes  Outstanding   Share
Premium
   Equity
Adjustments
   Accumulated
Profit

(Loss) from
Financial
Instruments
at Fair Value
through OCI
  Other  Legal
Reserve
   Others
Reserves
  Retained
Earnings
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to parent
company´s
owners
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to Non-
Controlling

Interests
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 

Balances as of 12.31.19

     1,426,765    10,951,132    60,622,637    536,548   14,591   1,296,382    125,952,363   (45,679,165  155,121,253   3,938,564   159,059,817 

Dividends Distribution from Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

  50   —      —      —      —     —     —      —     —     —     (143,844  (143,844

Distribution of Profits

                  

- Cash Dividends

  42   —      —      —      —     —     —      (1,892,559  —     (1,892,559  —     (1,892,559

- Other Reserves

     —      —      —      —     —     —      56,576,105   (56,576,105  —     —     —   

Increase due to merger

  31   47,927    6,330,055    925,676    —     —     —      (3,180,983  —     4,122,675   (4,135,824  (13,149

Total Comprehensive Income for the Year

                  

Net Income for the Year

  43   —      —      —      —     —     —      —     25,191,673   25,191,673   341,107   25,532,780 

Other Comprehensive Income for the Year

     —      —      —      (203,783  (5,527  —      —     —     (209,310  —     (209,310
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Balances as of 12.31.20

     1,474,692    17,281,187    61,548,313    332,765   9,064   1,296,382    177,454,926   (77,063,597  182,333,732   3   182,333,735 
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-8

IFRS 3: The amendments to IFRS 3 clarified that obtaining control of a joint operation is a business combination achieved in stages.


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020, IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

      Capital
Stock
   Paid-in
Capital
       Other Comprehensive
Income
   Profit Reserves               

Changes

  Notes  Outstanding   Share
Premium
   Equity
Adjustments
   Accumulated
Profit

(Loss) from
Financial
Instruments
at Fair Value
through OCI
   Other   Legal
Reserve
   Others
Reserves
   Retained
Earnings
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to parent
company´s
owners
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to Non-
Controlling

Interests
   Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 

Balances as of 12.31.18

     1,426,765    10,951,132    60,622,637    2,941    —      1,296,382    90,178,080    (38,558,827  125,919,110   3,607,470    129,526,580 

Capital Contribution from Non-controlling Interest

  50   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —     —     179,986    179,986 

Distribution of Profits

                      

- Cash Dividends

  42   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      (3,622,432  (3,622,432  —      (3,622,432

- Other Reserves

     —      —      —      —      —      —      35,774,283    (35,774,283  —     —      —   

Total Comprehensive Income for the Year

                      

Net Income for the Year

  43   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      32,276,377   32,276,377   151,108    32,427,485 

Other Comprehensive Income for the Year

     —      —      —      533,607    14,591    —      —      —     548,198   —      548,198 
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances as of 12.31.19

     1,426,765    10,951,132    60,622,637    536,548    14,591    1,296,382    125,952,363    (45,679,165  155,121,253   3,938,564    159,059,817 
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-9

IFRS 11: The amendments to IFRS 11 clarified that the party obtaining control of a business that is a joint operation should not remeasure its previously held interest in that joint operation.


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020, IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

     Capital
Stock
  Paid-in
Capital
     Other
Comprehensive

Income
  Profit Reserves             

Changes

 Notes  Outstanding  Share
Premium
  Equity
Adjustments
  Accumulated
Profit

(Loss) from
Financial
Instruments
at Fair Value
through OCI
  Other  Legal
Reserve
  Others
Reserves
  Retained
Earnings
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to parent
company´s
owners
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Attributable
to Non-
Controlling

Interests
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 

Balances as of 12.31.17

   1,426,765   10,951,132   60,622,637   186,159   -   1,218,152   66,597,571   (5,869,124  135,133,292   6,185,425   141,318,717 

Purchase of Non-controlling Interests

  50   -   -   -   -   -   -   1,613,587   -   1,613,587   (1,613,587  - 

Dividends Distribution from Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

  50   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   (202,709  (202,709

Distribution of Profits

            

- Cash Dividends

  42   —     —     —     —     —     —     —     (3,386,137  (3,386,137  —     (3,386,137

- Other Reserves

   —     —     —     —     —     78,230   21,966,922   (22,045,152  —     —     —   

Total Comprehensive Income for the Year

            

Net Loss for the Year

  43   —     —     —     —     —     —     —     (7,258,414  (7,258,414  (761,659  (8,020,073

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Year

   —     —     —     (183,218  —     —     —     —     (183,218  —     (183,218
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Balances as of 12.31.18

   1,426,765   10,951,132   60,622,637   2,941   —     1,296,382   90,178,080   (38,558,827  125,919,110   3,607,470   129,526,580 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes and Schedules are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

IAS 12: The amendments to IAS 12 clarified that the tax consequences of dividends on financial instruments classified as equity should be recognized according to where the past transactions or events that generated distributable profits where recognized. These requirements apply to all income tax consequences of dividend.

IAS 23: The amendments to IAS 23 clarified that if a specific borrowing remains outstanding after the related qualifying asset is ready for its intended use or sale, then that borrowing becomes part of general borrowings.

Entities are required to apply these amendments for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2019. The Group believes that the application of this standard would not have a material impact.

There are no other IFRS or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective and that would have a material impact on the Group.

1.3.CONSOLIDATION

Subsidiaries are all entities, including structured entities, over which the Group has control. The Group controls an entity when the Group is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power to direct the activities of the entity. The existence and effect of substantive rights, including potential voting rights, is taken into account when assessing whether the Group has control over another entity. In order for a right to be substantive, it must be exercisable by its holder when decisions about the direction of the entity's relevant activities need to be made. The Group may have control over an entity, even if it is entitled to less than a majority of voting rights.

In addition, other investors’ protective rights, such as those related to substantive changes to the investee's activities or only applicable under exceptional circumstances, do not prevent the Group from having power over an investee. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

F-12


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table shows the subsidiaries consolidated into the Group’s consolidated financial statements, at their different levels:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Percentage Interest (%)

 

 

 

 

 

Local and

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Company

 

Country

 

Functional

Currency

 

Closing

Date

 

Direct

 

 

Direct and

Indirect

 

 

Direct

 

 

Direct and

Indirect

 

 

Direct

 

 

Direct and

Indirect

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

95

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

95

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

95

 

 

 

100

 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

99.9

 

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

1

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Galicia Warrants S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

Financial Trust Galtrust I

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Financial Trust Saturno Créditos

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Net Investment S.A. (in Liquidation)(*)

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

Ondara S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

83.9

 

 

 

-

 

 

78.2

 

 

 

-

 

 

78.2

 

Sudamericana Holding S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

 

87.5

 

 

 

100

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

83

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

60

 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

Argentina

 

ARP

 

12.31.18

 

 

83

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

(*)

The final distribution was paid out on January 9, 2018.

As a result of the application of IFRS 10 “Consolidation,” the Group has started to consolidate Financial Trusts Saturno Créditos and Financial Trust Galtrust I in its consolidated financial statements, and deconsolidated Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A., as these two companies have been classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017.

For purposes of consolidation, the Group used the subsidiaries' financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. Accounting policies of Sudamericana Holding S.A. have been adjusted in order for them to reflect similar criteria to those applied by the Group in preparing its consolidated financial statements.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated.

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of consolidated are shown separately in the consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in equity and consolidated balance sheet respectively.

According to the provisions set forth in IFRS 3 “Business Combinations,” the acquisition of subsidiaries is accounted for by applying the acquisition method. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are, with limited exceptions, measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date.

Goodwill is measured as the difference, as of the acquisition date, of the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, the value of the consideration transferred, the amount of the non-controlling interest in the investee, and the fair value of previously held interest in the investee before the acquisition date.

The consideration transferred in a business combination is measured at the fair value of the assets transferred by the acquirer, the liabilities assumed, and the equity instruments issued by the acquirer. Transaction costs are recognized as expenses in the periods in which costs were incurred and services were received, other than transaction costs incurred in issuing equity instruments which are deducted from equity and the transaction costs incurred in issuing debt instruments, which are deducted from their carrying amount.

1.4.TRANSACTIONS WITH NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST

The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests that do not result in a loss of control as transactions with equity owners of the Group. A change in ownership interest results in an adjustment between the carrying amounts of the controlling and non-controlling interests to reflect their relative interests in the subsidiary. Any difference between the amount of the adjustment to non-controlling interests and any consideration paid or received is recognised within equity attributable to owners of the Group.

1.5.ASSOCIATES

Associates are entities over which the Group has significant influence (either directly or indirectly), but not control joint control. This is generally the case where the Group holds between 20 and 50% interest in voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method and are initially recognized at cost. The carrying amount of associates includes the goodwill identified in the acquisition, net of accumulated impairment losses, if any. Dividends received from associates reduce the carrying amount of the investment. Other changes subsequent to the

F-13


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

acquisition of the Group's interest in an associate’s net assets are recognized as follows: (i) the Group’s interest in the profits or losses of the associates is accounted for in the income statement under Share of Profit from Associates and Joint Ventures, and (ii) the Group’s interest in other comprehensive income is recognized in the consolidated statement of other comprehensive income and is disclosed separately. However, when the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest the entity, the Group does not recognize further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the other entity.

Unrealized gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associate; unrealized losses are also eliminated, provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

1.6.Segment Reporting

An operating segment is a component of an entity (a) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses relating to transactions with other components of the same entity), (b) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the Group’s CODM (chief operating decision maker) to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and (c) for which discrete financial information is available.

Operating segments are reported consistently with the internal reports submitted to the Board of Directors (CODM of the Group), which is responsible for making the Group's strategic decisions, allocating resources and assessing the performance of the operating segments.

1.7.Foreign Currency Translation

(a)Functional and Presentation Currency

The figures disclosed in the consolidated financial statements for each of the Group’s entities are measured in their functional currency, that is, the currency of the main economic environment in which they operate. These consolidated financial statements are stated in Argentine Pesos, which is the Group's functional and presentation currency. (See Note 1.2).

(b)Transactions and Balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at year end exchange rates are generally recognized in the income statement under “Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences,”. They are deferred in equity if they relate to qualifying cash flow hedges and qualifying net investment hedges or are attributable to part of the net investment in a foreign operation.

Assets and liabilities in foreign currency are measured at the reference exchange rate of the U.S. dollar set by the Argentine Central Bank prevailing at the close of operations on the last working day of each month.

As of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017, and January 1, 2017, balances in U.S. Dollars were converted applying the reference exchange rate ($37.8083, $18.7742 and $15.8502, respectively) set by the Argentine Central Bank. Assets and liabilities valued in foreign currencies other than the U.S. Dollar were converted into the latter currency using swap rates reported by the Argentine Central Bank.

1.8.Cash and Due from Banks

The item Cash and Due from Banks includes cash available and unrestricted deposits held in banks, which are short-term liquid instruments and have original maturities of less than three months.

The assets disclosed under cash and cash equivalents are accounted for at amortized cost which approximates its fair value.

1.9.Financial Instruments

Initial Recognition

The Group recognizes a financial asset or liability in its consolidated financial statements, as the case may be, when it becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Regular way purchases and sales of financial assets are recognized on trade-date, the date on which the group commits to purchase or sell the asset.

Upon initial recognition, the Group measures financial assets and liabilities at fair value, plus or less, in the case of instruments that are not recognized at fair value through profit or loss, the transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition, such as fees and commissions.

F-14


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Where the fair value differs from the acquisition cost at the time of initial recognition, the Group recognizes the difference as follows:

a.

When the fair value is evidenced by a quoted price in an active market for an identical asset or liability, or is based on a valuation technique that uses only data from observable markets, the difference is recognized as profit or loss, as the case may be.

b.

In all other cases, the difference is deferred. After initial recognition, the entity shall recognize that deferred difference as a gain 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.

Financial Assets

a.Debt Instruments

The Group classifies as debt instruments such instruments that are considered financial liabilities for the issuer, including loans, government and private securities, bonds, and accounts receivable from customers.

Classification

As set out in IFRS 9, the Group classifies financial assets as subsequently measured at amortized cost, at fair value through in other comprehensive income or at fair value through profit or loss, on the basis of:

-

the Group’s business model to manage financial assets; and

-

the characteristics of contractual cash flows of the financial asset.

Business Model

The business model is the manner in which the Group manages a set of financial assets to achieve a specific business goal. It represents the manner in which the Group manages its financial assets in order to generate cash flows.

The Group may follow several business models; whose objective is:

-

Holding instruments to collect its contractual cash flows;

-

Holding instruments in portfolio to collect contractual cash flows and, in turn, sell them if deemed convenient; or

-

Holding instruments for trading.

The Group's business model does not depend on the intended purpose of an individual instrument. Accordingly, this condition is not an approach for classification of instruments on an individual basis. Instead, such classification is determined at a higher level of aggregation.

The Group only reclassifies an instrument if and when the business model for managing financial assets has changed. Such reclassification takes place as from the commencement of the period in which the change has occurred. Such changes are not expected to be frequent, with no changes having occurred during the fiscal year.

Characteristics of Contractual Cash Flows

The Group assesses whether the cash flows from the aggregated instruments represent payments of solely principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding; otherwise, such instruments should be measured at fair value through profit or loss.

Based on the aforementioned, Financial Assets are classified into three categories:

(i)

Financial assets measured at amortized cost:

Financial assets are measured at amortized cost when:

(a)

the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to maintain financial assets to collect contractual cash flows; and

(b)

the contractual conditions of the financial asset give rise, on certain specified dates, to cash flows which are solely payments of principal and interest on the outstanding principal amount.

These financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value plus the incremental and directly attributable transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at amortized cost.

The amortized cost of a financial asset is equal to its acquisition cost, net of accumulated amortization plus accrued interest (calculated applying the effective rate method), net of impairment losses, if any.

(ii)

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income:

F-15


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Financial assets are measured at fair value through other comprehensive income when:

(a)

the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets; and

(b)

the contractual conditions of the financial asset give rise, on certain specified dates, to cash flows which are only principal and interest payments on the outstanding principal amount.

These instruments are initially recognized at fair value plus the incremental and directly attributable transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. The gains and losses arising from the changes in fair value are included in other comprehensive income under a separate component of equity. Losses or impairment reversals, interest income, and exchange gains and losses are charged to income. Upon the sale or disposal of the instrument, the accumulated gains or losses previously recognized in other comprehensive income are reclassified from the income statement.

(ii)Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss:

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are:

-

Instruments held for trading;

-

Instruments specifically designated at fair value through profit or loss; and

-

Instruments whose contractual terms do not represent cash flows but rather principal or interest payments only on outstanding principal amount.

These financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value and any fair value measurement is charged to the income statement.

The Group classifies a financial instrument as held for trading if such instrument is acquired or incurred for the main purpose of selling or repurchasing it in the short term, or if it is part of a portfolio of financial instruments which are managed together and for which there is evidence of short-term profits, or if it is a derivative financial instrument not designated as a hedging instrument. Derivatives and trading securities are classified as held for trading and are measured at fair value.

Furthermore, financial assets may be measured at fair value through profit or loss when, in doing so, the Group eliminates or substantially reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency.

b.Equity Instruments

Equity instruments are those considered as such by the issuer; in other words, instruments which do not include a contractual obligation to pay cash and which evidence a residual interest on the issuer's assets after deducting all of its liabilities.

Such instruments are measured at fair value through profit or loss, except where management has used, at the time of their initial recognition, the irrevocable option to measure them at fair value through other comprehensive income. This option is only available when instruments are not held for trading. The gains or losses of these instruments will be recognized in Other Comprehensive Income, with no reclassification, to profit or loss even if when they are realized. Dividends receivable from such instrument will be charged to income only at the time the Group becomes entitled to receive payment.

Financial Liabilities

Classification

The Group classifies its financial liabilities at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, except for:

-

Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss, including derivative financial instruments.

-

Liabilities resulting from the transfer of financial assets that do not meet the derecognition criteria.

-

Financial guarantee contracts.

-

Loan commitments at lower than market rates.

Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss: The Group may, upon initial recognition, use the irrevocable option to designate a financial liability at fair value through profit or loss, if and only if exercising such option results in a better information because:

-

the Group eliminates or substantially reduces measurement or recognition inconsistencies which would otherwise arise;

F-16


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

-

if financial assets and liabilities or a group of financial assets or liabilities are managed and performance is assessed on a fair value basis, according to a documented investment or risk management strategy; or

-

if a host contract contains one or more embedded derivatives and the Company has opted for designating the entire contract at fair value through profit or loss.

Financial guarantee contracts: Financial guarantee contracts require the issuer to make specified payments to reimburse the holder for a loss it may incur if a specified debtor fails to make payment when due under a debt instrument´s original modified terms.

Financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments at lower than market rates are initially measured at fair value and then remeasured at the higher of the unaccrued premium at year-end and the applicable allowance for impairment.

Derecognition of Financial Instruments

Financial Assets

A financial asset or, where applicable, a portion of a financial asset or a portion of a group of similar financial assets, is derecognized when: (i) the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or (ii) the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed the obligation to remit all cash flows received to a third party without material delay under a pass-through agreement ; and substantially all risks and rewards inherent to the asset have been transferred or, if substantially all risks and rewards inherent to the asset have not been transferred or retained, when control over such asset has been transferred.

When the contractual rights to receive the cash flows generated by the asset have been transferred or a pass-through agreement has been entered into, the entity will assess whether or not, and to which extent, it has retained the risks and rewards inherent to ownership of an asset. If an entity has neither transferred nor retained substantially all risks and rewards inherent to ownership of an asset, nor has it transferred control over such asset, then it will continue recognizing such asset in its financial statements to the extent of its continuing involvement.

In this case, the entity will also recognize the related liability. The transferred asset and the related liability are measured in such a manner as to reflect the rights and obligations the Group has retained.

When continuing involvement takes the form of collateral over the transferred asset, it is measured at the lower of (i) the original carrying amount, and (ii) the maximum amount of the consideration received the entity could be required to repay.

Financial Liabilities:

A financial liability is derecognized when the payment obligation is satisfied, is canceled or expires. When an existing financial liability is exchanged for another with the same borrower under substantially different terms, or the prevailing terms are substantially modified, such exchange or modification will be treated as a derecognition of the original liability, and a new liability will be recognized. The difference between the carrying amount of the initial financial liability and the consideration paid is recognized in the consolidated income statement. When renegotiation terms do not substantially differ or the terms are not significantly modified, the flows of modified financial liabilities are discounted at the original contract rate.

1.10.DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL Instruments

Derivative Financial instruments, including foreign exchange contracts, interest rate futures, forwards, interest rate and currency swaps, and currency and interest rate options, are carried at fair value.

All derivative financial instruments are accounted for as assets when fair value is positive and as liabilities when fair value is negative, relative to the agreed-upon price. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments are charged to income for the fiscal year.

The Group has not applied hedge accounting in these consolidated financial statements.

1.11.Repo Transactions

Reverse Repo Transactions

According to the derecognition principles set out in IFRS 9, these transactions are treated as secured loans for the risk has not been transferred to the counterparty.

Loans received in the form of reverse repo agreements are accounted for under “Repo Transactions”, classified by counterparty (i.e. financial debtors, Argentine Central Bank and non-financial debtors) and also by the type of assets received as collateral.

F-17


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At the end of each month, accrued interest income is charged against “Repo Transactions” with its corresponding offsetting entry in “Interest Income.”

The assets received and sold by the Group are derecognized at the end of the repo transaction, and an in-kind liability is recorded to reflect the obligation of delivering the security disposed of.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020, IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Argentine Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Provided

Items

  Notes   12.31.20  12.31.19  12.31.18 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

      

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

     43,377,652   50,178,167   7,067,054 

Adjustment to Obtain the Operating Activities Flows:

      

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

     34,679,749   30,227,668   34,136,247 

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

     8,284,286   6,894,944   3,459,704 

Loss on Net Monetary Position

     36,963,213   41,928,902   37,830,439 

Other Operations

     33,809,461   45,546,783   (15,845,824

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Assets:

      

Debt securities measured at fair value through profit or loss

     (16,816,890  1,906,801   25,022,547 

Derivative Financial Instruments

     1,005,783   568,821   (2,115,155

Repo Transactions

(45,899(4,166,505627,969

Other Financial Assets

762,7832,738,0613,292,293

Net Loans received in the form of repo agreements are accounted for under “Repo Transactions”, classified by counterparty (financial creditors, Argentine Central Bank and non-financial creditors)Other Financing

- Non-financial Public Sector

11,29217,889(6,796

- Other Financial Institutions

(2,768,659(1,073,2967,583,249

- Non-financial Private Sector and also by the type of asset pledged as collateral.Residents Abroad

(70,129,96372,480,365(28,997,919

In these transactions, when the recipient of the underlying asset becomes entitled to sell it or pledge it as collateral, it is reclassified to “FinancialOther Debt Securities

2,823,0604,314,789(21,448,808

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral” At the end of each month, these assets are measured according to the category they had before they were subject to the repo transaction, and results are charged against the applicable accounts, depending on the type of asset.Collateral

(2,992,4086,929,858(3,080,071

At the end of each month, accrued interest expense is charged against “Repo Transactions” with its corresponding offsetting entryInvestments in “Interest-related Expenses.”Equity Instruments

1.12.Allowances for Loan Losses

The Group assesses on a forward-looking basis the expected credit losses (“ECL”

309,477(5,863,167associated with its debt instruments assets carried at amortized cost and FVOCI, together with the exposure arising from loan commitments and financial guarantee contracts. The Group recognizes a loss allowance for such losses at each reporting date. The measurement of ECL reflects:

An unbiased and probability-weighted amount is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes,

The time value of money, and

Reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort at the reporting date about past events, current conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions.

Note 46 provides more detail of how the expected credit loss allowance is measured.

1.13.Leases

1.13.1.Operating Leases

Leases where the lessor retains a substantial portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases (net of lease incentives) are recognized in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

1.13.2.Finance Leases

Finance leases are capitalized, at the lease’s inception at the fair value of the leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments.

Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to the profit or loss over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. Assets acquired under a finance lease are depreciated during the shorter of the asset useful life and the lease term.

1.14.Property, Plant and Equipment

The Group has used the option set out in IFRS 1 “First-time Adoption of IFRS” and has adopted the fair value as deemed cost for certain items of property, plant and equipment on transition date to IFRS as mentioned in Note 3.

Assets are stated at historical cost adjusted for inflation (as explained in Note 1.2.b.

(102,894less depreciation. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of items. The items of property, plant and equipment acquired in a business combination were initially measured at their estimated fair value at the time of the acquisition.

Subsequent costs are included in the value of the asset and are recognized as a separate asset, as the case may be, if and only if future economic benefits are expected to flow to the Group and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of any component accounted for as a separate asset is derecognized when replaced. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to profit or loss during the reporting period in which they are incurred.

F-18


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis, using annual rates sufficient to extinguish the value of the assets at the end of their estimated useful life. If an asset is comprised by significant components with varying useful lives, such components will be recognized and depreciated as separate item. Property, plant and equipment residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed and adjusted, as needed, as of each year-end or when indicators of impairment exist.

The carrying amount of property, plant and equipment is immediately reduced to its recoverable value when the carrying amount exceeds the estimated recoverable value.

Gains and losses from the disposal of items of property, plant and equipment are calculated by comparing the proceeds from the disposal to the carrying amount of the respective asset and are charged to income.

1.15.Intangible Assets

1.15.1. Licenses

Separately acquired licenses are shown at historical cost, restated in accordance with Note 1.2.b. while licenses acquired through business combinations are measured at their estimated fair value on the acquisition date and restated in accordance with 1.2.b.

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, intangible assets with definite useful life are disclosed net of accumulated amortization and/or impairment losses, if any. These assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis or when indicators of impairment exist.

Licenses acquired by the Group were classified as intangible assets with definite useful life and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the license term.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful life are those arising from contracts or other legal rights renewable at no significant cost and for which, on the basis of an analysis of all relevant factors, there is no foreseeable time limit during which the asset is expected to generate net cash flows for the Group. These intangible assets are not amortized, but are rather tested for impairment on an annual basis or when indicators of impairment exist, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The determination of the indefinite useful life is reviewed on an annual basis to confirm whether it is still applicable.

1.15.2.Software

Costs associated with software maintenance are recognized as an expense when incurred.

Development costs that are directly attributable to the design and testing of identifiable and unique software products controlled by the group are recognized as intangible assets when the following criteria are met:

-

it is technically feasible to complete the software so that it will be available for use

-

management intends to complete the software and use or sell it

Other Non-financial Assets

871,701(2,209,541(2,364,329

-

there is an ability to use or sell the software

-

it can be demonstrated how the software will generate probable future economic benefits

-

adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the software are available, and

-

the expenditure attributable to the software during its development can be reliably measure costs incurred in                 software development, acquisition and deployment recognized as intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis during the estimated useful life and restated in accordance with Note 1.2.b.

1.16.Non-current Assets Held for Sale

23,7781,220,25021,470,750

Net Increases/(Decreases) from Operating Liabilities:

Deposits

- Non-financial Public Sector

18,905,690(15,314,92714,347,100

- Financial Sector

1,333,223(876,6751,134,515

- Non-financial Private Sector and Discontinued OperationsResidents Abroad

120,123,123(201,920,439117,986,898

1.16.1.Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

(1,936,133(2,555,4014,491,534

Derivative Financial Instruments

(1,142,083(2,645,1302,072,205

Other Financial Liabilities

1,297,568(40,408,46016,511,834

Provisions

36,561704,4431,156,177

Other Non-financial Liabilities

44,060(1,096,350(20,447,222

Income Tax Collections/Payments

(25,076,419)(13,753,851(15,540,835

NET CASH (USED IN)/GENERATED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES (A)

183,754,006(26,226,001188,240,662

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES

Payments:

Purchase of PP&E, Intangible Assets Held for and Other Assets

(7,123,954)(10,751,158(7,723,624

Interests in Associates and other companies

(102,290—  —  

Collections:

Sale

The assets, or group of assets, classified as held for sale pursuant to IFRS 5 “Non-currentPP&E, Intangible Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations,” are disclosed separatelyOther Assets

264,6033,648,203212,957

Dividends earned

179,298—  —  

NET CASH USED IN INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES (B)

(6,782,343(7,102,955(7,510,667

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Payments:

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

(27,839,122(20,826,089(2,851,195

Subordinated Debt Securities

—  —  —  

Loans from the other assets.Local Financial Institutions

(35,157,119(70,418,814(25,579,255

Dividends

42(2,036,403(3,622,432(3,588,846

Leases payment

(1,333,090(1,361,874—  

Collections:

Unsubordinated Debt Securities

11,728,0167,726,30423,558,089

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

19,531,57863,225,07424,870,537

Capital increase

50—  179,986—  

NET CASH (USED IN)/GENERATED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES (C)

(35,106,140)(25,097,84516,409,330

EXCHANGE INCOME ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (D)

32,805,83869,534,98194,158,129

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (A+B+C+D)

174,671,36111,108,180291,297,454

MONETARY LOSS RELATED TO CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

(111,859,585(168,132,627(94,622,803

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

5316,008,097473,032,544276,357,893

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF THE YEAR

5378,819,873316,008,097473,032,544

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos (Ps.) and Thousands of U.S. Dollars (USD), Except as Otherwise Stated

NOTE 1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS FOR PREPARATION

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. (hereinafter, “the Company”, and jointly with its subsidiaries, “the Group”) is a financial services holding company incorporated in September 14, 1999 under the laws of Argentina. The Company’s main asset is its interest in Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. (hereinafter, “Banco Galicia” or “the Bank”) which is a private bank offering a wide range of financial services, both to individuals and companies. Likewise, the Company has a controlling interest in: Tarjetas Regionales S.A., through it we provide proprietary brand credit cards, consumer finance and digital banking services to non-banked populations of Argentina; Sudamericana Holding S.A., a company engaged in the insurance business; Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A., a mutual fund management company; Galicia Warrants S.A., a warrant issuing company; IGAM LLC, a company engaged in assets management; and Galicia Securities S.A. a settlement and compensation agent.

These consolidated financial statements were approved and authorized for publication through Minutes of Board of Directors’ Meeting No. 631 dated April 23, 2021.

1.1. BASIS FOR PREPARATION

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance and in compliance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the interpretations issued by the International Financial Reporting Interpretation Committee (IFRIC). All the IFRSs in force as of the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements have been applied.

In Argentina, the Group is subject to the provisions of Article 2, Section I, Chapter I of Title IV: Periodic Information Regime of the National Securities Commission (CNV) regulations and it is required to present its financial statements in accordance with the valuation and disclosure criteria set forth by the Argentine Central Bank.

The Argentine Central Bank, through Communications “A” 5541 and its amendments, established a convergence plan towards the adoption of IFRS as issued by the IASB, and the interpretations issued by the IFRIC, for the entities under its supervision, effective for fiscal years commencing January 1, 2018 with certain exceptions.

The Group has presented its local financial statements under these rules on March 9, 2021. Shareholders’ equity under the rules of the Argentine Central Bank is presented in Note 52.8.

It has been concluded that these consolidated financial statements fairly present the Group’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows, in accordance with IFRS.

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Groups´ accounting policies.

The areas involving a greater degree of judgment or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant for the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 2.

 

(a)

Non-current assets or disposal groups (including the loss of control over a subsidiary) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered highly probable. In order for an asset to be classified as held for sale, it must meet the following conditions:Going Concern

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, there are no uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt upon the Group´s ability to continue as a going concern.

(b)

Measurement Unit

IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies” requires that the financial statements of an entity whose functional currency is that of a hyperinflationary economy be restated in terms of the current measurement unit as of the reporting period-end, irrespective of whether they are based on the historical cost or the current cost method. Accordingly, in general terms, non-monetary items should be adjusted for inflation occurring since the acquisition date or since the revaluation date, as the case may be. These requirements are also applicable to the comparative information reported in the financial statements. According to IAS 29, monetary assets and liabilities are not required to be restated, for they are stated in the measurement unit as of the end of the reporting period. Assets and liabilities subject to adjustments based on specific agreements will be adjusted on the basis of such agreements. Non-monetary items measured at their fair values at the end of the reporting period, such as net realizable value or otherwise, will not be restated. The other non-monetary assets and liabilities will be restated by applying a general price index. The income (loss) from the net monetary position will be charged to net income for the reporting period in a separate item.

-

it must be available for immediate sale in its current condition;

-

Management must be committed to a plan to sell the asset and must have initiated an active program to locate a buyer and complete the plan;

F-19


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In order to conclude whether a given economy qualifies as hyperinflationary pursuant to the terms of IAS 29, the standard sets forth certain factors that should be considered, including a three-year cumulative inflation rate reaching or exceeding 100%.

In this regard, the Argentine Federation of Professional Councils in Economic Sciences (FACPCE) through Resolution J.G.539/18 and the Professional Council in Economic Sciences of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (CPCECABA) through Resolution C.D. 107/2018 have pointed out that, effective for fiscal years ending on July 1, 2018 and thereafter, entities reporting under IFRS will be required to apply IAS 29 since the conditions for such application have been satisfied. In addition, Law No. 27468 enacted in November 2018 abrogated the prohibition to present the financial statements adjusted for inflation, as established by Decree 664/2003, entrusting each regulatory agency with its application. In this regard, on December 26, 2018, the CNV issued General Resolution No. 777/2018 authorizing the issuing entities to present accounting information in constant currency for annual financial statements for interim and special periods ending on December 31, 2018 and thereafter, except for financial institutions and insurance companies.

The Group has applied IAS 29, Financial Reporting in hyperinflationary Economy, in preparing these consolidated financial statements for all presented years.

(c)

New Accounting Standards

Definition of “Business” - Amendment to IFRS 3: The new definition of Business includes a comprehensive set of activities and assets that can be directed and managed for the purpose of providing goods or services to customers, generating investment income (such as dividends or interest) or generating other income from ordinary activities. Yields such as lower costs and other economic benefits are excluded from the above definition.

This amendment is effective as of January 1, 2020. The Group does not consider that this amendment has an impact, unless there is a business combination.

Definition of “Material” - Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8: The IASB has amended IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements” and IAS 8 “Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates, and Errors” clarifying when information is material.

In particular, the amendments clarify:

 

-

The reference to obscuring information addresses situations where the effect is similar to omitting or misstating such information, and that an entity assesses materiality in the context of the financial statements as a whole; and

the asset must be actively marketed for sale at a reasonable price in relation to its current fair value;

-

the sale must be expected to be completed within 12 months from the reclassification date;

-

it is unlikely that the plan will be significantly changed or withdrawn.

Assets, or groups of assets, classified as held for sale pursuant to IFRS 5 “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations,” are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell and are restated in accordance with Note 1.2.b.

the meaning of “primary users of general-purpose Financial Statements” to whom those Financial Statements are addressed, by defining them as “existing and potential investors, lenders and other creditors”, that must rely on general purpose Financial Statements for much of the financial information they need.

This amendment is effective as of January 1, 2020 and the Group does not consider that this amendment has a significant impact on its financial statements.

Amendments to the Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting: The IASB has issued a new Conceptual Framework. It should be noted that the aforementioned amendment will not imply changes to any of the current accounting standards. However, the Entities that use the Conceptual Framework to define the accounting standards for those transactions, events or situations not contemplated in the current accounting standards must apply the new Conceptual Framework as of January 1, 2020, and evaluate whether their accounting standards continue to be adequate.

The Group does not consider that these amendments have a significant impact on its financial statements.

Reform to the interest rate benchmark - Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7: These amendments provide some reliefs regarding the reform to the interest rate benchmark such as LIBOR and other rates offered in the interbank market. Reliefs are related to hedge accounting and to the fact that the mentioned reform should not cause the end of hedge accounting, considering the IFRS currently in force. However, hedge ineffectiveness must continue to be recorded in the Statement of Income. These amendments are effective as of January 1, 2020 and the Group does not consider that these amendments have an impact given that the Group does not apply hedge accounting on its current financial statements.

 

(d)

Non-current assets (including those that are part of a disposal group) are not depreciated or amortized while they are classified as held for sale.

1.16.2.Discontinued Operations

A discontinued operation is a Group's component that either has been disposed of, or classified as held for sale,New accounting standards and meets any of the following conditions:

-

represents either a separate major line of business or a geographical area of operations;

-

is part of a single coordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations; or

-

is an independent entity exclusively acquired with a view to resale.

Any gain or loss on the remeasurement of an asset (or disposal group) classified as held for sale which does not meet the requirements to be classified as a discontinued operation will be recognized in income from continuing operations.

1.17.Impairment of Non-financial Assets

Assets with indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. Other assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable or, at least, on an annual basis.

An impairment loss is recognized for the amountamendments issued by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash inflows which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating units). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at the end of each reporting period.

1.18.Trust Assets

Assets held by the Group in its capacity as trustee are not included in the consolidated balance sheet because the Group has neither control over the trust nor the risks and benefits of the underlying assets. Commissions and fees earned on trust activities are disclosed in "Fee Income".

1.19.Offsetting

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the balance sheet where the Group currently has a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

1.20.Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

The amounts owed to other financial institutions are recorded at the time the bank disburses the proceeds to the economic group. The non-derivative financial liability is measured at amortized cost. Where the Group buys back its own debt, such debt will be derecognized from its consolidated financial statements and the difference between the residual value of the financial liability and the amount paid will be recognized as financial income or expense, as the case may be.

1.21.Provisions / Contingencies

A provision will be recognized when:

a.

an entity has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event;

b.

it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying future economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation; and

c.

the amount can be reliably estimated.

F-20


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Group will be deemed to have a constructive obligation where (a) the Group has assumed certain responsibilities as a consequence of past practices or public policies, and (b) as a result, the Group has created an expectation that it will discharge those responsibilities.

The Group recognizes the following provisions:

For labor, civil and commercial lawsuits: These provisions are calculated on the basis of attorneys’ reports about the status of the proceedings and the estimate about the potential losses the Group may sustain, as well as on the basis of past experience in proceedings of these kinds.

For miscellaneous risks: These provisions are set up to address contingencies that may trigger obligations for the Group. In estimating the provision amounts, the Group evaluates the likelihood of occurrence taking into consideration the opinion of its legal and professional advisors.

The provision amount recognized by the Group must be the best estimate at the reporting year-end of the disbursement required to settle the current obligation.

Where the financial effect of the discount is material, the provision amount must be the present value of the disbursements expected to be required to settle the obligation, applying a pre-tax interest rate that reflects prevailing market conditions on the time value of money and the risks specific to such obligation. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized under Financial Income (Loss), Net in the income statement.

The Group will not account for positive contingencies, other than those arising from deferred taxes and those whose occurrence is virtually certain.

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, the Group's management believes there are no elements leading to determine the existence of contingencies that might be materialized and have a negative impact on these consolidated financial statements other than those disclosed in Note 47.

1.22.Other Non-financial Liabilities

Non-financial accounts payable are accrued when the counterparty has fulfilled its contractual obligations and are measured at amortized cost.

1.23.DEBT INSTRUMENTS Issued

The Debt Instruments Issued by the Group are measured at amortized cost. Where the Group buys back its own debt, the liability in respect of such debt instrument will be deemed extinguished and, accordingly, the debt instrument will be derecognized. Where the Group buys back its own debt, such debt will be derecognized from its consolidated financial statements and the difference between the residual value of the financial liability and the amount paid will be recognized as financial income or expense, as the case may be.

1.24.ASSETS AND LIABILITIES ARISING FROM INSURANCE CONTRACTS

Assets and liabilities arising from the Group's insurance contracts are measured and recorded according to the criteria set forth in IFRS 4 "Insurance Contracts".

Assets for Insurance Contracts

Insurance contracts are those contracts under which the Group (the insurer) has accepted an insurance risk from the other party (the policyholder) by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain future event (the insured event) adversely affects the policyholder.

Once a contract has been classified as an insurance contract, it continues to be an insurance contract for its remaining useful life, even if the insurance risk is significantly reduced during this period, unless all the rights and obligations are extinguished or expire.

The insurance contracts offered by the Group include property insurance covering fire, homeowners’ insurance, theft and similar risks, property damages, personal accidents, among other risks. They also include life and retirement insurance.

Total premiums are recognized as an account receivable on the date of issuance of the policy. At the same time, a reserve for unaccrued premiums representing premiums for risksIASB that have not yet expired is recorded in liabilities. Unaccrued premiums are recognized as revenue during the contract period, which is also the coverage and risk period. The carrying amount of accounts receivable from insurance is reviewed for impairment provided that events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The impairment loss is charged to the income statement.


F-21


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Liabilities Recognized for the Insurance Business

Debts with Insured Reserves

Reserves for insurance losses account for debts with insured for losses reported to the company and the estimated losses that have already been incurred but to date have not been reported to the company (IBNR losses). Reported losses are adjusted based on technical reports received from independent appraisers.

Debts with Reinsurers and Co-insurers

The Group mitigates the risk for some of its insurance businesses through coinsurance or reinsurance contracts with other companies. In the case of coinsurance, the company associates with another company to cover the risk assuming only a share thereof and, accordingly, of the premium as well. In the case of reinsurance, the risk is transferred to another insurance company both proportionally (as a share of the risk) and non-proportionally (the excess of loss is covered above a specified limit). The transferred reinsurance agreements do not release the Group from its obligations towards the insured.

Liabilities for coinsurance and reinsurance represent the amounts owed under the same terms and amounts payable are estimated consistently with the contract that has given rise thereto.

Debts with Insurance Brokers

They represent the liabilities with insurance brokers and representative agents arising from commissions on insurance operations they originate for the Group's companies. They also include the current account balances with those entities.

Statutory Reserves

Statutory reserves include the reserves for obligations of future benefits by virtue of their life insurance policies, annuities and accidents, and the reserves for retirement insurance contracts.

The Group evaluates, at the end of the reporting period, the adjustment of insurance liabilities that have been recognized, using the current estimates of future cash flows from insurance contracts. If the evaluation shows that the carrying amount of its liabilities for insurance contracts (less deferred acquisition costs and related intangible assets) is not adequate, considering the estimated future cash flows, the total amount of the inadequacy will be recognized in profit or loss. According to IFRS 4, the Group will be required to determine the adequacy of the carrying amount recorded pursuant to the guidelines set out in IAS 37.

1.25.SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Shareholders’ equity accounts are restated in accordance with Note 1.2.b., except for the item "Capital Stock", which is carried at face value. The restatement adjustment is included in "Adjustments to Shareholders' Equity.”

Ordinary shares are recognized in shareholders’ equity and carried at face value. When any company comprising the Group buys shares of the Company's capital stock (treasury stock), the payment made, including any cost directly attributable to the transaction (net of taxes), is deducted from shareholders’ equity until the shares are either canceled or disposed of.

1.26.Profit Reserves

Pursuant to Section 70 of the General Corporations Law, the Company and its subsidiaries, other than Banco Galicia, are required to appropriate 5% of the net income for the fiscal year to the Legal Reserve until such reserve is equal to 20% of capital stock, plus the balance of the Capital Adjustment account.

As concerns Banco Galicia, according to the regulations set forth by the Argentine Central Bank, 20% of net income for the fiscal year, net of previous years’ adjustments, if any, is required to be appropriated to the legal reserve. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, in appropriating amounts to other reserves, Financial Institutions are required to comply with the provisions laid down by the Argentine Central Bank in the revised text on distribution of dividends described in Note 54.8.

1.27.Distribution of Dividends

The distribution of dividends to the Group's shareholders is recognized as a liability in the consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year in which dividends are approved by the Group’s shareholders.

F-22


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.28.Revenue Recognition

Financial income and expense is recognized in respect of all debt instruments in accordance with the effective interest rate method, pursuant to which all gains and losses which are an integral part of the transaction effective interest rate are deferred.

Gains or losses included in the effective interest rate embrace disbursements or receipts relating to the creation or acquisition of a financial asset or liability, such as preparation and processing of the documents required to consummate the transactions, and payments received for the extension of credit arrangements. The Group accounts for its non-derivative financial liabilities at amortized cost, except for those included in “Liabilities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss,” which are measured at fair value.

Fees and commissions earnedadopted by the Group on the origination of syndicated loans are not part of the product effective interest rate, and are recognized in the income statement at the time the service is delivered, to the extent the Group does not retain a portion of the same, or such effective interest rate is maintained under the same conditions as the other participants. Commissions and fees earned by the Group on negotiations in third parties’ transactions are not part of the effective interest rate either, and are recognized at the time the transactions are executed.

IFRS 15 establishes the principles that an entity shall apply to recognize revenue and cash flows from contracts with customers.

The amount that should be recognized will be the amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for the services delivered to customers.

The Group's income from services is recognized in the income statement as performance obligations are fulfilled, part of the consideration received is allocated to the point granted for the Group´s customer loyalty programs. Consideration is allocated based on the relative standalone selling prices for services rendered and points granted.  Points are accumulated based on the redemption rate, once they are redeemed by customers, the Group recognizes the revenue associated to them.

Revenue recognized during the year is restated as explained in Note 1.2.b.

Below is a summary of the main commissions earned by the Bank:

The new standards, amendments and interpretations published are detailed below; however, they have not yet come into force for financial reporting periods commenced January 1, 2020 and have not been early adopted.

Sale or Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture - Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28. The IASB made limited amendments to IFRS 10 “Consolidated Financial Institutions” and to IAS 28

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

“Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures”. The amendments clarify the accounting of sales or contributions of assets between the investor and its associates or joint ventures. This confirms that the accounting treatment depends of whether the non-monetary assets sold or contributed to the associate or joint venture are a “business” (such as defined in IFRS 3) or not. When the non-monetary assets constitute a business, the investor will recognize the profit or loss from the sale or contribution of the assets. When the assets do not constitute a business, the profit or loss is recognized by the investor only up to the amount recognized by the other investor in the associate or joint venture. The amendments are to be prospectively applied. The IASB has decided to defer the application date of this amendment until it concludes its research project on the equity method. The Group is evaluating the impact of adopting this new standard.

IFRS 17 “Insurance Contracts”: On May 18, 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 “Insurance Contracts,” establishing a comprehensive accounting framework based on measurement and disclosure principles for insurance contracts. The new standard supersedes IFRS 4 “Insurance Contracts,” and requires entities to measure an insurance contract at initial recognition at the total of the fulfilment cash flows (comprising the estimated future cash flows, an adjustment to reflect the time value of money and an explicit risk adjustment for non-financial risk) and the contractual service margin. The fulfilment cash flows are remeasured on a current basis each reporting period. The unearned profit (contractual service margin) is recognized over the coverage period. Entities are required to apply IFRS 17 for fiscal years commencing on or after January 1, 2023.The Group is evaluating the impact of adopting this new standard.

There are no other IFRS or IFRIC interpretations that are not effective and that are expected to have a significant impact on the Group.

 

Commissions

Earning Frequency
1.2.

CONSOLIDATION

Retail Products and Services

Savings Accounts

Monthly

Checking Accounts

Monthly

Credit-card Renewal

Annual

Safe Deposit Boxes

Quarterly

Bonds and Shares Transactions

On each transaction

Wholesale Products

Account Maintenance

Monthly

Deposits and Withdrawals among Branches

Monthly

Foreign Trade Transactions

On each transaction

1.29.Income Tax and Minimum Presumed Income Tax

1.29.1.Income Tax

The income tax expense for the year includes current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognized in the consolidated income statement, except for items required to be recognized directly in other comprehensive income. In this case, the income tax liability related to such items is also recognized in such statement.

The current income tax expense is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantially enacted as of the balance sheet date in the countries where the Group operates and generates taxable income. The Group periodically assesses the position assumed in tax returns in connection with circumstances in which the tax laws are subject to interpretation. On the other hand, when required, the Group sets up provisions in respect of the amounts expected to be required to pay to the tax authorities.

Deferred income tax is determined, in its entirety, by applying the liability method on the temporary differences arising from the carrying amount of assets and liabilities and their tax base. However, the deferred tax arising from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination which, at the time of the transaction does not affect income or loss for accounting or tax purposes, is not recorded. The deferred tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) enacted as of the date of the financial statements and that are expected to be applicable when the deferred tax assets are realized or the deferred tax liabilities are settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent future tax benefits are likely to arise against which the temporary differences might be offset.

F-23


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Group recognizes a deferred tax liability for taxable temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries and affiliates, except that the following two conditions are met:

Subsidiaries are those entities, including structured entities, where the Group is in control because (i) it has the power to direct relevant activities of the investee, which significantly affect its returns; (ii) it has exposure, or rights, to variable returns for its interest in the investee; and (iii) it has the ability to use its power over the investee to affect the amount of the investor’s returns. The existence and effect of the substantive rights, including potential voting rights, are considered when evaluating whether the Group has control over another entity. For a right to be substantive, the holder must have the practical ability to exercise it whenever necessary to make decisions on the direction of the relevant activities of the entity. The Group may be in control of an entity even when possessing less than the majority of the voting rights.

Likewise, the protective rights of other investors, such as those related to substantive changes in the activities of the investee or applied only in exceptional circumstances, do not prevent the Group from having control over an investee. The subsidiaries are consolidated from the date the control is transferred to the Group, and they cease to be consolidated as of the date on which the control ceases.

The subsidiaries which have been consolidated in these Consolidated Financial Statements are detailed in Note 15.

For the purpose of consolidating its financial statements, the Group used the subsidiaries’ financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020. The accounting policies applied by Sudamericana Holding SA. are established by the National Insurance Superintendency and have been adjusted to those applied by the Group in preparing its consolidated financial statements.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealized gains on transactions between Group’s companies were eliminated. (See Note 51).

Non-controlling interest in the results and equity of consolidated subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated statement of income, consolidated statement of other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in shareholder’s equity and consolidated statement of financial position, respectively.

In accordance with the provisions of IFRS 3 “Business combinations”, the acquisition method is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries. The identifiable assets and liabilities acquired, and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured at their fair values on the acquisition date.

Goodwill is measured as the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and, in a business combination achieved in stages, the fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquiree; over the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.

The consideration transferred in a business combination is measured at the fair value of the assets transferred by the acquirer, the liabilities assumed by the acquirer with the previous owners of the investee, and the equity instruments issued by the acquirer. The transaction costs are recognized as expenses in the periods in which the costs have been incurred and the services have been received, except for the transaction costs incurred to issue equity instruments that are deducted from equity, and the transaction costs incurred to issue debt that are deducted from their carrying amount.

(i)

the Group controls the timing on which temporary differences will be reversed; and

(ii)

such temporary differences are not likely to be reversed in the foreseeable future.

The balances of deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when a legal right exists to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and to the extent such balances are related to the same tax authority of the Group or its subsidiaries, where tax balances are intended to be, and may be, settled on a net basis.

1.29.2.Minimum Presumed Income Tax

The Group determines the minimum presumed income tax at the effective rate of 1% of the computable assets at each fiscal year-end. This tax is supplementary to income tax. The Group’s tax liability is equal to the higher of the two taxes. However, if the minimum presumed income tax were to exceed income tax in a given fiscal year, such excess may be computed as a payment on account of the income tax that could be generated in any of the next ten fiscal years.

The minimum presumed income tax credit disclosed under "Current Income Tax Assets" is the portion the Group expects to offset against the income tax in excess of minimum presumed income tax to be generated in the following ten fiscal years.

1.30.Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share are calculated as income (loss) attributable to the owners of the Parent, divided by average ordinary shares outstanding.

Diluted earnings per share are calculated by adjusting income (loss) attributable to owners of the Parent and average ordinary shares outstanding adjusted for the effects of the potential conversion into equity instruments of all convertible instruments held by the Group at period-end.

NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the use of certain significant accounting estimates. It also requires Management to make judgments in applying the accounting standards to define the Group's accounting policies.

The Group has identified the following areas which involve a higher degree of judgment or complexity, or the areas in which the assumptions and estimates are material for these consolidated financial statements, which are essential to understand the underlying accounting/financial reporting risks.

a.Fair Value of Derivative Instruments and Other Instruments

The fair value of financial instruments not listed in active markets is determined using valuation techniques. Such techniques are validated and reviewed periodically by qualified personnel independent from the area which developed them. All models are assessed and adjusted before being put into use in order to ensure that results reflect current information and comparable market prices. Where possible, models rely on observable inputs only; however, certain factors, such as the Group's own and the counterparty's credit risk, volatilities and correlations, require the use of estimates. Changes in the assumptions about these factors may affect the reported fair value of financial instruments.

b.Impairment Losses on Loans and Advances

The Group recognizes the allowance for loan losses under the expected credit losses method included in IFRS 9. The most significant judgments of the model relate to defining what is considered to be a significant increase in credit risk, determining the life of revolving facilities, and in making assumptions and estimates to incorporate relevant information about past events, current conditions and forecasts of economic conditions. A high degree of uncertainty is involved in making estimations using assumptions that are highly subjective and very sensitive to the risk factors.

c.Impairment of Non-financial Assets

Intangible assets with definite useful life and property, plant and equipment are amortized or depreciated on a straight-line basis during their estimated useful life. The Group monitors the conditions associated with these assets to determine whether the events and circumstances require a review of the remaining amortization or depreciation term and whether there are factors or circumstances indicating impairment in the value of the asset which might not be recoverable.

Identifying the indicators of impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets requires the use of judgment. The Group has concluded that there were no indicators of impairment for any of the years reported in its consolidated financial statements.

F-24


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d.Income Tax and Deferred Tax

The assessment of current and deferred tax assets and liabilities requires a significant level of judgment. Current income tax is accounted for according to the amounts expected to be paid, while deferred income tax is accounted for on the basis of the temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities and their tax base, at the rates expected to be in force at the time of reversal of such differences.

A deferred tax asset is recognized when future taxable income is expected to exist to offset such temporary differences, based on Management's assumptions about the amounts and timing of such future taxable income. Then, management needs to determine whether deferred tax assets are likely to be used and offset against future taxable income. Actual results may differ from these estimates, for instance, changes in the applicable tax laws or the outcome of the final review of the tax returns by the tax authorities and tax courts.

Future taxable income and the number of tax benefits likely to be available in the future are based on a medium-term business plan prepared by management, on the basis of expectations which are deemed reasonable.

NOTE 3. TRANSITION TO IFRS

3.1.Requirements for the Transition to IFRS

The following is a reconciliation between the shareholders' equity, consolidated income statement, consolidated other comprehensive income and consolidated statement of cash flows amounts related to the consolidated financial statements issued according to the accounting framework prior to the transition date (January 1, 2017) and the adoption date (December 31, 2017), and the amounts presented according to the IFRS (see Note 1.1) in these consolidated financial statements, as well as the effects of adjustments to cash flows.

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

12.31.17

 

 

Reclassifications

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

References(*)

 

IFRS

12.31.17

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

83,654,804

 

 

 

3,864,824

 

 

 

(474,747

)

 

(**)

 

 

87,044,881

 

Debt Securities

 

 

57,243,282

 

 

 

(57,243,282

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

291,356,673

 

 

 

(291,356,673

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Receivables Resulting from Financial Brokerage

 

 

49,252,567

 

 

 

(49,252,567

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Receivables from Financial Leases

 

 

2,475,481

 

 

 

(2,475,481

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

42,380

 

 

 

(42,380

)

 

 

-

 

 

(b)

 

 

-

 

Miscellaneous Receivables

 

 

5,624,770

 

 

 

(5,624,770

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

6,599,018

 

 

 

855,941

 

 

 

10,754,056

 

 

(c)

 

 

18,209,015

 

Miscellaneous Assets

 

 

920,957

 

 

 

(920,957

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

5,281,315

 

 

 

(3,386,055

)

 

 

(170,346

)

 

(d)

 

 

1,724,914

 

Unallocated Items

 

 

105,237

 

 

 

(105,237

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Assets

 

 

933,522

 

 

 

(933,522

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Securities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

43,131,317

 

 

 

(383,520

)

 

(e)

 

 

42,747,797

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

-

 

 

(f)

 

 

775,674

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,280,118

 

 

 

59,138

 

 

(g)

 

 

10,339,256

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

-

 

 

 

294,954,874

 

 

 

(10,600,115

)

 

(h)

 

 

284,354,759

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,826,823

 

 

 

355,714

 

 

(i)

 

 

4,182,537

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,442,784

 

 

 

(95,996

)

 

(k)

 

 

9,346,788

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

435,524

 

 

 

(300,784

)

 

(**)

 

 

134,740

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

30,814

 

 

 

81,109

 

 

(j)

 

 

111,923

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

898,751

 

 

 

(136,181

)

 

(q)

 

 

762,570

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,119,159

 

 

 

(381,029

)

 

(l)

 

 

3,738,130

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,998,967

 

 

 

3,861,124

 

 

(m)

 

 

10,860,091

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

503,490,006

 

 

 

(16,417,315

)

 

 

2,568,423

 

 

 

 

 

489,641,114

 

(*)

The references are related to the explanations included in Note 3.5.

(**)

The adjustments are related to the deconsolidation of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (See Note 23).

F-25


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

12.31.17

 

 

Reclassifications

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

References(*)

 

IFRS

12.31.17

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

300,385,784

 

 

 

18,197

 

 

 

(4,036,625

)

 

(**)

 

 

296,367,356

 

Other Liabilities Resulting from Financial Brokerage

 

 

120,099,500

 

 

 

(120,099,500

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Miscellaneous Liabilities

 

 

12,654,374

 

 

 

(12,654,374

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Provisions

 

 

1,053,020

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(155,760

)

 

(n)

 

 

897,260

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

7,128,356

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

7,128,356

 

Unallocated Items

 

 

82,199

 

 

 

(82,199

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Non-Controlling Interest

 

 

2,857,150

 

 

 

(2,857,233

)

 

 

83

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Liabilities

 

 

1,204,603

 

 

 

(1,204,603

)

 

 

-

 

 

(s)

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

846,331

 

 

 

-

 

 

(f)

 

 

846,331

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

-

 

 

(**)

 

 

1,670,059

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

55,255,531

 

 

 

95,268

 

 

(o)

 

 

55,350,799

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial  Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,545,122

 

 

 

(926,820

)

 

(p)

 

 

11,618,302

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

23,680,419

 

 

 

(3,401,254

)

 

(**)

 

 

20,279,165

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,019,433

 

 

 

(440,904

)

 

(**)

 

 

3,578,529

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

102,293

 

 

 

1,986,247

 

 

(q)

 

 

2,088,540

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,208,253

 

 

 

(12,606

)

 

(s)

 

 

1,195,647

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

19,642,178

 

 

 

1,500,276

 

 

(r)

 

 

21,142,454

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

445,464,986

 

 

 

(17,910,093

)

 

 

(5,392,095

)

 

 

 

 

422,162,798

 

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital Stock, Contributions and Reserves

 

 

45,726,926

 

 

 

(1,364,453

)

 

 

22,875,924

 

 

 

 

 

67,238,397

 

Retained Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9,596,038

)

 

 

 

 

(9,596,038

)

Other Accumulated Comprehensive Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

88,889

 

 

 

 

 

88,889

 

Net Income for the Year

 

 

12,298,094

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(5,504,506

)

 

 

 

 

6,793,588

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

58,025,020

 

 

 

(1,364,453

)

 

 

7,864,269

 

 

 

 

 

64,524,836

 

Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,857,231

 

 

 

96,249

 

 

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

58,025,020

 

 

 

1,492,778

 

 

 

7,960,518

 

 

 

 

 

67,478,316

 

1.3.

TRANSACTIONS WITH NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST

The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests that do not result in a loss of control as transactions with equity owners of the Group. A change in ownership interest results in an adjustment between the carrying amounts of the controlling and non-controlling interests to reflect their relative interests in the subsidiary. Any difference between the amount of the adjustment to non-controlling interests and any consideration paid or received is recognized within equity attributable to owners of the Group.

 

1.4.

ASSOCIATES

Associates are entities over which the Group has significant direct or indirect influence, but not control; generally, this implies holding between 20 and 50 percent of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method and are initially recognized at cost. The carrying amount of the associates includes the goodwill identified in the acquisition less the accumulated impairment losses, if any. Dividends received from associates reduce the carrying amount of the investment. Other changes subsequent to the acquisition of the Group’s interest in the net assets of an associate are recognized as follows: (i) the Group’s interest in the profits or losses of the associates is accounted under Share of Profit from Associates and Joint Ventures in the consolidated statement of income and (ii) the Group’s interest in other comprehensive income is recognized in the consolidated statement of other comprehensive income and presented separately. However, when the Group’s share in losses in an associate equal or exceeds its interest in it, the Group does not recognize further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate.

Unrealized profits on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates; unrealized losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of impairment in the transferred asset.

1.5.

SEGMENT REPORTING

An operating segment is a component of an entity (a) that conducts business activities from which it can earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses related to transactions with other components of the same entity); (b) whose operating income is regularly reviewed by the Group´s CODM (chief operating decision maker) to make decisions about the resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance; and (c) for which confidential financial information is available.

Segment reporting is presented consistently with the internal reports submitted to the Board of Directors (CODM of the Group), which is responsible for making the Group’s strategic decisions, allocating resources and assessing the performance of the operating segments.

1.6.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION

(a)

Functional Currency and Presentation Currency

The figures included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group´s entities are stated in their functional currency, that is, the currency used in the primary economic environment where it operates. The consolidated financial statements are stated in Argentine pesos (Ps.), which is the Group’s functional and presentation currency. (See Note 1.1).

(b)

Transactions and Balances

The transactions in foreign currency are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rate at the dates of the transactions. Profits and losses in foreign currency resulting from the settlement of these transactions and the translation of monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currency at closing exchange rate, are recognized under “Exchange rate differences on gold and foreign currency” in the statement of income, except when they are deferred in equity by transactions which qualify as cash flows hedges, if appropriate.

Assets and liabilities in foreign currency are measured at the reference exchange rate of the US dollar defined by the Argentine Central Bank at the closing of operations on the last business day of each month.

As of December 31, 2020, and December 31, 2019, balances in U.S. Dollars were translated at the reference exchange rate (Ps.84.145 and Ps. 59.895, respectively) established by the Argentine Central Bank. Foreign currencies other than the US dollar have been translated into this currency using exchange rates reported by the Argentine Central Bank.

1.7.

CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS

The item Cash and Due from Banks includes the available cash and bank deposits freely available, which are liquid short-term instruments with maturity less than three months from the origination date.

The assets disclosed under cash and due from banks are accounted for at their amortized cost which approximates its fair value.

(*)

The references are related to the explanations included in Note 3.5.

(**)

The adjustments are related to the deconsolidation of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (See Note 23).

F-26


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

01.01.17

 

 

Reclassifications

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

References(*)

 

IFRS

01.01.17

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

112,701,996

 

 

 

9,195,966

 

 

 

(713,983

)

 

(**)

 

 

121,183,979

 

Debt Securities

 

 

25,244,436

 

 

 

(25,244,436

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

253,261,822

 

 

 

(253,261,822

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

33,494,417

 

 

 

(33,494,417

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Receivables from Financial Leases

 

 

1,760,275

 

 

 

(1,760,275

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

97,589

 

 

 

(55,935

)

 

 

245,148

 

 

(b)

 

 

286,802

 

Miscellaneous Receivables

 

 

6,338,591

 

 

 

(6,338,591

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

5,294,669

 

 

 

1,856,493

 

 

 

9,197,198

 

 

(c)

 

 

16,348,360

 

Miscellaneous Assets

 

 

2,250,193

 

 

 

(2,250,193

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

4,757,939

 

 

 

(2,160,844

)

 

 

(936,302

)

 

(d)

 

 

1,660,793

 

Unallocated Items

 

 

164,052

 

 

 

(164,052

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Assets

 

 

993,393

 

 

 

(993,393

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Securities at fair value through Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,885,062

 

 

 

1,932,682

 

 

(e)

 

 

28,817,744

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

228,955

 

 

 

481

 

 

(f)

 

 

229,436

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,385,466

 

 

 

(665,885

)

 

(g)

 

 

6,719,581

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

-

 

 

 

255,623,225

 

 

 

(9,919,804

)

 

(h)

 

 

245,703,421

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,266,584

 

 

 

(82,732

)

 

(i)

 

 

3,183,852

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,459,071

 

 

 

(363,478

)

 

(k)

 

 

10,095,593

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

418,206

 

 

 

(183,275

)

 

(**)

 

 

234,931

 

Investment in Equity Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

56,036

 

 

 

131,099

 

 

(j)

 

 

187,135

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,160,815

 

 

 

(125,555

)

 

(q)

 

 

1,035,260

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

988,723

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

988,723

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,593,168

 

 

 

(573,500

)

 

(l)

 

 

3,019,668

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,733,814

 

 

 

2,185,302

 

 

(m)

 

 

10,919,116

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

446,359,372

 

 

 

4,127,626

 

 

 

127,396

 

 

 

 

 

450,614,394

 

1.8.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Initial Recognition

The Group recognizes a financial asset or liability in its consolidated financial statements, as appropriate, when it becomes part of the contractual clauses of the financial instrument. Purchases and sales are recognized at the trading date when the Group buys or sells the instruments.

Upon initial recognition, the Group measures financial assets or liabilities at fair value, plus or less, for instruments not recognized at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, such as fees and commissions.

When the fair value differs from the cost value of the initial recognition, the Group recognizes the difference as follows:

a.

When the fair value is according to the market value of the financial asset or liability or is based on a valuation technique solely using market values, the difference is recognized as profit or loss, as appropriate.

b.

In other cases, the difference is deferred and the recognition over time of the profit and loss is individually determined. The difference is amortized over the life of the instrument until the fair value can be measured based on market values.

Financial Assets

a.

Debt Securities

The Group considers as debt securities those instruments considered financial liabilities for the issuer, such as loans, government and private securities, bonds and customer accounts receivable.

Classification

As established by IFRS 9, the Group classifies financial assets according to how they are subsequently measured: at amortized cost, at fair value through other comprehensive income, or at fair value through profit or loss, based on:

the Group’s business model to manage financial assets; and

 

(*)

the characteristics of contractual cash flows of the financial asset.

Business Model

The Business Model refers to the way in which the Group manages a set of financial assets to reach a specific business objective. It represents the way the Group manages its financial instruments to generate cash flows.

Business models that the Group can follow are listed below:

Hold the instruments to collect its contractual cash flows;

Hold the instruments in the portfolio to collect contractual cash flows and, in turn, sell them when deemed convenient; or;

Hold the instruments for trading.

The Group’s Business Model does not depend on the intentions that it may have for an individual instrument. Therefore, this condition is not an instrument-by-instrument classification approach, but it is determined from a higher level of aggregation.

The Group only reclassifies an instrument when, and only when, the business model for managing financial assets is modified. The reclassification is performed from the commencement of the period where the change takes place. Such change is not expected to be frequent, and changes have not been recorded during this fiscal year.

Characteristics of Contractual Cash Flows

The Group assesses whether the cash flow of grouped instruments is not significantly different from the flow that would receive solely for interest; otherwise, they shall be measured at fair value through profit or loss.

Based on the foregoing, there are three categories of Financial Assets:

The references are related to the explanations included in Note 3.5.
(i)

Financial assets measured at amortized cost:

Financial assets are measured at amortized cost when:

(a)

the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold financial assets to collect contractual cash flows; and

(b)

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

(**)

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value plus the incremental and directly attributable transaction costs and are subsequently measured at amortized cost.

The amortized cost of a financial asset is equal to its acquisition cost less its accumulated amortization plus accrued interest (calculated according to the effective interest method), net of any impairment loss.

The adjustments are related to the deconsolidation of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (See Note 23).
(ii)

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income:

Financial assets are measured at fair value through other comprehensive income when:

(a)

F-27the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets; and


(b)

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

These instruments are initially recognized at their fair value plus the incremental and directly attributable transaction costs and are subsequently measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. Profits and losses arising from the changes in fair value are included in other comprehensive income within a separate equity component. Impairment losses or reversals, income for interest and exchange profits and losses are recognized through profit or loss. Upon its sale or disposal, the accumulated profit or loss previously recognized through other comprehensive income is reclassified to the statement of income.

(iii)

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss:

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are the following:

Instruments held for trading;

Instruments specifically designated at fair value through profit or loss; and

Instruments whose contractual terms do not represent cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the outstanding principal amount.

These financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value and any fair value measurement is recognized in the statement of income.

The Group classifies a financial instrument as held for trading if it is acquired or incurred for the main purpose of selling or repurchasing it in the short term, or if it is part of a portfolio of financial instruments that are jointly managed and for which there is evidence of short-term earnings, or is a derivative financial instrument not designated as a hedging instrument. Derivative instruments and held-for-trading securities are classified as held for trading and measured at fair value.

Additionally, financial assets can be valued at fair value through profit or loss when, by doing so, the Group eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition mismatch.

b.

Equity Instruments

Equity instruments are so considered by its issuer; this means that they are instruments which do not contemplate a contractual obligation to pay cash, and which evidence a residual interest on the issuer’s asset after deducting its entire liabilities.

Such instruments are measured at fair value through profit or loss, except when, at the time of the initial recognition, the irrevocable option had been exercised to measure them at fair value through Other Comprehensive Income. This method is only applicable when the instruments are not held for trading and income shall be accounted in other comprehensive income with no reclassification to profit or loss, even when they are realized. Dividends receivable arising from such instruments shall be recognized through profit or loss solely when the Group is entitled to collect the payment.

Financial Liabilities

Classification

The Group classifies their financial liabilities at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method, except for:

Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss, including derivative financial instruments.

Liabilities arising from the transfer of financial assets not complying with the derecognition criteria.

Financial guarantee contracts.

Loan commitments at a lower than market rate.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss: the Group may choose to use, at the beginning, the irrevocable option to designate a liability at fair value through profit or loss, if, and only if, in doing so, it reflects a better measurement of financial information because:

the Group eliminates or significantly reduces measurement or recognition inconsistency which would otherwise be exposed in the valuation;

if financial assets and liabilities or a group of financial assets or liabilities, are managed and their performance is assessed on a fair value basis, according to a documented investment or risk management strategy; or

a host contract contains one or more embedded derivative instruments, and the Group has opted for designating the entire contract at fair value through profit or loss.

Financial guarantee contracts: Financial guarantee contracts are those contracts requiring the issuer to make specific payments to reimburse the holder for the loss incurred when a specific debtor does not comply with its payment obligation on maturity, in accordance with the original or amended terms of a debt instrument.

Financial guarantee contracts are initially measured at fair value, and subsequently measured at the higher of the amount of the loss allowance and the amount initially recognized less, when appropriate, the cumulative amount of income recognized.

Derecognition of Financial Instruments

Financial Assets

A financial asset or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or a part of a group of similar financial assets, is derecognized when: (i) the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or (ii) the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset, or has assumed an obligation to pay all of the cash flows received immediately to a third party under a pass-through agreement; and all the risks and rewards of the asset have also been substantially transferred, or, in case all the risks and rewards of the asset had not been substantially transferred or retained, the control of the asset has been transferred.

When the contractual rights of receiving the cash flows generated by the asset have been transferred, or a transfer agreement has been executed, the entity assesses if it has retained, and to what extent, the risks and awards inherent in asset ownership. When substantially all the risks and rewards inherent in asset ownership have not been transferred or retained, nor has control of the asset been transferred, the asset continues to be recognized to the extent of its continued involvement over it.

In this case, the related liability is also recognized. The transferred asset and the related liability are measured in such a way so as to reflect the rights and obligations that the Group had retained.

A continuing involvement that takes the form of a collateral on the transferred asset is measured as the smallest amount between (i) the original carrying amount of the asset, and (ii) the maximum amount of consideration received that would be required to be returned.

Financial Liabilities:

A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation, has been cancelled, or has expired. When an existing financial liability is exchanged by another of the same borrower under significantly different conditions, or the conditions are significantly modified, such exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and a new liability is recognized, the difference between the value in books of the initial financial liability and the consideration paid is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income. When the renegotiation conditions are not significantly different, or the conditions are not significantly modified, the flows of the modified financial liabilities are discounted at the rate of the original contract.

1.9.

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Derivative Financial instruments, including foreign currency contracts, futures, forward contracts, interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps, interest rate options and foreign currency options are recorder at their fair value.

All derivative financial instruments are recorder as assets when the fair value is positive and as liabilities when the fair value is negative, against the agreed price. The changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are recognized in profit or loss.

In these consolidated financial statements, the Group has not applied hedge accounting.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.10.     REPURCHASE TRANSACTIONS

Reverse Repurchase Transactions

According to the derecognition principles in IFRS 9, these transactions are considered as secured borrowings, since the risk has not been transferred to the counterpart.

Financing granted through reverse repurchase transactions are recorded under “Repurchase Transactions” accounts, classified by counterparty and considering the asset received as collateral.

At the closing of each month, accrued interest receivable is imputed to the “Repurchase Transactions” account with offsetting entry in “Interest Income”.

The underlying assets received for the reverse repurchase transactions will be recorded in Off-Balance Sheet Items. The assets received that have been sold by the Group are not deducted, but derecognized only when the repo transaction finishes, recording a liability in kind for the obligation to deliver the security sold.

Repurchase Transactions

Financing received through repurchase transactions are recorded under “Repurchase Transactions” accounts, classified by counterparty and considering the asset pledged as collateral.

In these transactions, when the receiver of the underlying asset obtains the right to sell it or pledge it as collateral, this is reclassified to the “Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral” accounts.

At the closing of each month, accrued interest payable is imputed to the “Repurchase Transactions” account with offsetting entry in “Interest Expenses”.

1.11.    ALLOWANCES FOR FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The Group assesses on a forward-looking basis the expected credit loss (“ECL”) associated with its debt instruments assets carried at amortized cost and FVOCI, together with the exposure arising from loan commitments and financial guarantee contracts. The Group recognizes a loss allowance for such losses at each reporting date. The measurement of ECL reflects:

An unbiased and probability-weighted amount is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes,

The time value of money, and

Reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort at the reporting date about past events, current conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions.

Note 45 provides more detail of how the expected credit loss allowance is measured.

1.12.    LEASES

1.12.1.    Lease activities of the Group

The Group is the lessee of various properties to be used in its ordinary course of business. Lease contracts are generally made for fixed periods, from 1 to 20 years, but in some cases, there may be price agreements for shorter periods with extension options. Lease terms are individually negotiated and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions.

From January 1, 2019, leases are recognized as a right-of-use asset and a corresponding liability, on the date at which the leased asset is available for use by the Group.

Assets and liabilities arising from a lease are initially measured on a present value basis. Lease liabilities include the net present value of the following lease payments:

fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable;

variable lease payments based on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate on the initial date;

amounts expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees;

the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option; and

payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising that option.

Lease payments to be made under reasonably certain extension options are also included in the measurement of the liability.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, if it can be determined; or otherwise, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate will be applied, which is the rate that the lessee would have to pay to borrow the necessary funds to obtain an asset of similar value to the right-of- use asset, in a similar economic environment with similar terms, security and conditions.

Lease payments are allocated between principal and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to profit or loss over the lease period, to produce a constant, periodic interest rate on the remaining balance of the liability for each period.

Right-of-use assets are measured at their cost, comprising the following:

the amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability;

any lease payment made on or before the initial date, less any lease incentives received;

any initial direct cost; and

restoration and dismantling costs.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated over the shorter of the asset useful life and the lease term on a straight-line method.

Payments related to short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognized on a straight-line basis as an expense in profit or loss. Short-term leases are leases with a lease term of 12 months or less that do not contain a bargain purchase option. Low-value assets are defined as small physical spaces where equipment owned by the Group is kept.

1.12.2.    Extension and Termination Options

The extension and termination options that are included in several Property, Plant and Equipment leases were considered to determine the term of the lease. These options are used to maximize the operational flexibility in terms of managing the assets used in our operations. Most of the extension and termination options held are exercisable only by the Group and not by the respective lessor.

1.13.    PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Assets are measured at their acquisition or construction cost, net of accumulated depreciations and/or accumulated impairment losses, if any. The cost includes the expenses directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of the items.

Property, Plant and Equipment acquired through business combinations were initially valued at the estimated fair value at the acquisition date.

Subsequent costs are included in the value of the asset or are recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, if and only if they are likely to generate future economic benefits for the Group, and its cost can be reasonably measured. When improvements are made to the asset, the carrying amount of the replaced asset is derecognized, the new asset being amortized for the remaining useful life.

Repair and maintenance costs are recognized in the consolidated statement of income for the year in which they are incurred.

The depreciation of these assets is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate their cost over, their estimated useful lives. If an asset includes significant components with different useful lives, they are recognized and depreciated as separate items.

The residual values of Property, Plant and Equipment, the useful lives and the depreciation methods are reviewed and adjusted if necessary, at the closing date of each fiscal year, or when there is evidence of impairment.

The book value of the Property, Plant and Equipment is immediately reduced to its recoverable amount when it is greater than the estimated recoverable value.

Profits and losses from the sale of Property, Plant and Equipment items are determined by comparing the proceeds from the disposal to the carrying amount of the respective asset and are charged to income.

1.14.    INTANGIBLE ASSETS

1.14.1.    Licenses

Licenses acquired individually are initially valued at cost, while those acquired through business combinations are recognized at their estimated fair value at the acquisition date.

At the closing date of these consolidated financial statements, intangible assets with a finite useful life are presented net of accumulated depreciation and/or accumulated impairment losses, if any. These assets are subject to impairment tests annually, or when there is evidence of impairment.

The licenses acquired by the Group have been classified as intangible assets with a finite useful life, being amortized on a straight-line basis over the period of the license.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are the assets arising from contracts or other legal rights, that can be renewed without significant cost, and for which, based on an analysis of all relevant factors, there is no foreseeable limit of the period along which the asset is expected to generate net cash flows for the Group. These intangible assets are not amortized, but are subject to impairment tests, annually or when there is evidence of impairment, either individually or at the level of the cash generating unit. The determination of the indefinite useful life is annually reviewed to confirm if it continues being applicable.

1.14.2.    Software

The costs related to software maintenance are recognized as expense when incurred. The development, acquisition and implementation costs that are directly attributable to software design and testing, identifiable and monitored by the Group, are recognized as assets.

The costs incurred in software development, acquisition or implementation, recognized as intangible assets, are amortized by applying the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.

1.15.    ASSETS HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

1.15.1.    Assets Held for Sale

The assets, or group of assets, classified as available for sale in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 5 “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations,” will be disclosed separately from the rest of the assets.

Non-current assets or disposal groups (including the loss of control over a subsidiary) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered highly probable. In order for an asset to be classified as held for sale, it must meet the following conditions:

it must be available for immediate sale in its current condition;

Management must be committed to a plan to sell the asset and must have initiated an active program to locate a buyer and complete the plan;

the asset must be actively marketed for sale at a reasonable price in relation to its current fair value;

the sale is expected to be completed within 12 months from its reclassification date; and

it is unlikely that the plan will be significantly changed or withdrawn.

The assets, or groups of assets, classified as held for sale in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 5 “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations”, are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell and are restated in accordance with Note 22.

Non-current assets (including those that are part of a disposal group) are not depreciated or amortized while they are classified as held for sale.

1.15.2.    Discontinued Operations

A discontinued operation is a component of the Group that has been disposed of, or that has been classified as held for sale, and complies with any of the following conditions:

it represents line of business or a geographical area, which is significant and can be considered as separated from the rest;

it is part of a single coordinated plan to have a business line, or geographical area of the operations which is significant and can be considered as separated from the rest; or

it is an independent entity exclusively acquired to resell it.

Any profit or loss arising from re-measuring an asset (or group of assets for its disposal) classified as Held for Sale, which does not meet the definition of discontinued operation, will be included in the Income from continuing operations.

1.16.    IMPAIRMENT OF NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS

Assets with indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. Other assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable or, at least, on an annual basis.

Depreciation and impairment losses are recognized when the carrying amount exceeds their recoverable value. The recoverable value of assets is the greater of the net amount that it would obtain from its sale, or its value in use. For the impairment tests, the assets are grouped at the lowest level where they generate identifiable cash flows (cash generating units). The carrying amount of non-financial assets other than goodwill over which depreciation and impairment have been recorded, are reviewed at each reporting date for verifying possible depreciation and impairment reversals.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.17.    TRUST ASSETS

The assets held by the Group in its trustee role are not reported in the consolidated statement of financial position, because the Group is not in control of the trust or the risks and rewards of the underlying assets. Fees received from trust activities are recorded in Fee Income.

1.18.    OFFSETTING

Financial assets and liabilities are offset by reporting the net amount in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position only when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

1.19.    FINANCING RECEIVED FROM THE ARGENTINE CENTRAL BANK AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

The amounts owed to other Financial Institutions are recorded at the time the principal is disbursed to the Group. Non-derivative financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost. If the Group repurchases its own debt, this is eliminated from the consolidated financial statements, and the difference between the residual value of the financial liability and the amount paid is recognized as a financial income or expense.

1.20.    PROVISIONS AND CONTINGENCIES

In accordance with IFRS a provision will be recognized when:

a.

an Entity has a current obligation (either legal or implicit) as a consequence of a past event;

b.

it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying future economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation; and

c.

the amount can be reliably estimated.

It will be understood that the Group has an implicit obligation if (a) as a result of previous practices or public policies, the Group has assumed certain liabilities; and (b) as a result, it has created expectations that it will comply with those obligations.

The Group recognizes the following provisions:

For labor, civil, and commercial lawsuits: provisions are determined based on the lawyers’ reports on the status of the lawsuits and the estimate made on the bankruptcy possibilities to be faced by the Group, as well as on past experience regarding this type of lawsuits.

For miscellaneous risks: provisions are set up to face contingent situations that may give rise to obligations for the Group. When estimating the amounts, the probability of their materializing is taken into account, considering the opinion of the Group’s legal advisors and professionals.

The amount recognized as provision must be the best estimate of the disbursement needed to cancel such obligation, at the end of the year being reported.

When the financial effect produced by the discount becomes important, the amount of the provision must be the present value of the disbursements that are expected to be required to cancel the obligation by using a pre-tax interest rate that reflects the current market conditions on the value of money and the specific risks for such obligation. The increase in the provision for the lapsing of time is recognized in the Net Financial Income item of the Statement of Income.

The Group will not record the positive contingencies, except those arising from deferred taxes and those which materialization is virtually certain.

At the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements, the Group Directors understand that there have been no elements that allow determining the existence of other contingencies that may be materialized and generate a negative impact on these consolidated financial statements, as detailed in Note 29.

1.21. OTHER NON-FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

Non-financial accounts payable are accrued when the counterparty has complied its contractual obligations under the contract, and they are measured at amortized cost.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.22.    DEBT SECURITIES

The Group’s Debt Securities are measured at amortized cost. If the Group purchases debt securities of their own, the obligation in Liabilities related to such debt securities is considered extinguished, and, therefore, it is derecognized. If the Group repurchases its own debt, this is eliminated from the Consolidated Financial Statements, and the difference between the residual value of the financial liability and the amount paid is recognized as a financial income or expense.

1.23.    ASSETS AND LIABILITIES ARISING FROM INSURANCE CONTRACTS

The valuation and recording of assets and liabilities arising from the Group’s insurance contracts is performed pursuant to the IFRS 4 “Insurance Contracts” criteria.

Assets for Insurance Contracts

Insurance contracts are contracts where the Group (the insurer) has accepted an insurance risk from another party (the insured) by agreeing to compensate the insured if a specified uncertain future event (the insured event) adversely affects the insured.

Once a contract has been classified as an insurance contract, it remains an insurance contract for the rest of its useful life, even if the insurance risk is significantly reduced during this period, unless all rights and obligations are extinguished or expire.

The insurance contracts offered by the Group include property insurance that covers fire, combined family insurance, theft and similar risks, property damage, personal accidents, among other risks. Life insurance and Retirement insurance contracts are also included.

Total premiums are recognized as of the policy issuance date as an account receivable. At the same time, a reserve is recorded in Liabilities for unearned premiums representing premiums for risks that have not yet expired. The unearned premiums are recognized as Income for the contract period, which is also the coverage and risk period. The book value of insurance accounts receivable is reviewed for impairment if events or circumstances indicate that the book value may not be recoverable. Impairment loss is recorded in the Statement of Income.

Liabilities Recognized for the Insurance Business

Debts with Insured Persons

Reserves for Insurance claims represent debts with insured persons for claims reported to the company, and an estimate of the claims that have already been incurred but have not yet been reported to the company. Reported claims are adjusted based on technical reports received from independent appraisers.

Debts with Reinsurers and Co-insurers

The Group mitigates the risk for some of its insurance business through coinsurance or reinsurance contracts in other companies. For coinsurance, the Company associates with another company to cover a risk, by assuming only a percentage of it and, therefore, also of the premium. For reinsurance, the risk is transferred to another insurance company both in proportional (as a risk percentage) and non-proportional form (the excess of loss above a certain limit is covered). The transferred reinsurance agreements do not exempt the Group from its obligations with the insured persons.

Coinsurance and reinsurance liabilities represent balances owed under the same conditions, and the amounts payable are estimated in a manner consistent with the contract that gave rise to them.

Debts with Producers

They represent liabilities with insurance producers and independent agents arising from the commissions for the insurance transactions they bring for the Group’s companies. The checking account balances with such entities are also included.

Technical Commitments

Technical reserves include reserves for future benefit obligations under life, annuity and accident insurance policies, and reserves for retirement insurance contracts.

The Group assesses, at the end of the reporting period, the adequacy of the insurance liabilities it has recognized, using current estimates of future cash flows from its insurance contracts. Should the evaluation show that the carrying amount of its liabilities for insurance contracts (minus deferred acquisition costs and related intangible assets) is not adequate, considering the estimated future cash flows, the total amount of the deficiency will be recognized in Income. In accordance with IFRS 4, the Group must determine the adequacy of the amount in books recorded in accordance with the guidelines established in IAS 37.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.24.    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Shareholders’ equity accounts are restated in accordance with Note 1.1.b., except for the item “Capital Stock”, which is carried at face value. The restatement adjustment is included in “Equity Adjustments”.

Ordinary shares are classified in Shareholders’ Equity and remain recorded at their nominal value. When any company forming part of the Group buys Company shares (treasury shares in portfolio), the payment made, including any costs directly attributable to the transaction (net of taxes) is deducted from the Shareholders’ Equity until the shares are canceled or sold.

1.25.    PROFIT RESERVES

According to Art. 70 of the General Companies Act, the Company and its subsidiaries, except Banco Galicia, must transfer to Legal Reserve 5% of the profit for the year, until said reserve reaches 20% of the capital stock plus the balance of the Equity Adjustment account.

Regarding Banco Galicia, in accordance with the regulations established by the Argentine Central Bank, it is appropriate to allocate to Legal Reserve 20% of the profits for the year, net of the eventual adjustments of previous fiscal years, if applicable. However, for the allocation of Other Reserves, the Financial Institutions must comply with the Argentine Central Bank provisions of the Amended Text on dividends distribution detailed in Note 52.

1.26.    DIVIDENDS DISTRIBUTION

The dividends distribution to the Group’s shareholders is recognized as a liability in the consolidated financial statements in the year in which the dividends are approved by the Group’s shareholders.

1.27.    REVENUE RECOGNITION

Financial income and expenses are recorded for all debt instruments according to the effective interest rate method, by which all gains and losses that are an integral part of the effective interest rate of the transaction are deferred.

The income included in the effective interest rate includes disbursements or income related to the creation or acquisition of a financial asset or liability, such as, for example, the preparation and processing of the documents necessary to conclude the transaction and the compensation received by the granting of credit agreements. The Group records all its non-derivative financial liabilities at amortized cost, except those included in the item “Liabilities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss” which are measured at fair value.

Fees received by the Group for the origination of syndicated loans are not part of the effective interest rate of the product, and are recognized in the statement of income at the time the service is provided, to the extent the Group does not retain part of it, or this is maintained in the same conditions as the rest of the participants. Commissions and fees earned by the Group on negotiations in third parties’ transactions are not part of the effective interest rate either, and are recognized at the time the transactions are executed.

IFRS 15 establishes the principles that an entity shall apply to recognize revenue and cash flows from contracts with customers.

The amount that should be recognized will be the amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for the services delivered to customers.

The Group’s income from services is recognized in the statement of income to the extent the performance obligations are complied with, thus deferring those revenues related to customer loyalty programs, which are provisioned based on the fair value of each point and its redemption rate, until they are exchanged by the customer and can be recognized in the income for the year.

Retail product and service fees related to savings and checking account operations have a monthly charging frequency; safe deposit boxes fees are charged quarterly; renewal of credit cards is charged annually, and bond and shares transactions are charged at the time the transactions are executed.

Additionally, fees for wholesale products corresponding to maintenance of accounts, deposits and withdrawals between entities, are charged on a monthly basis; foreign trade transactions are charged at the time the transactions are executed.

Below is a summary of the main commissions earned by the Bank:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

01.01.17

 

 

Reclassifications

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

References(*)

 

IFRS

01.01.17

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

279,493,299

 

 

 

5,962

 

 

 

(2,421,699

)

 

(**)

 

 

277,077,562

 

Other Liabilities Resulting from Financial Brokerage

 

 

106,487,811

 

 

 

(106,487,811

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Miscellaneous Liabilities

 

 

10,694,695

 

 

 

(10,694,695

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Provisions

 

 

708,432

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

781

 

 

(n)

 

 

709,213

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

7,490,444

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

7,490,444

 

Unallocated Items

 

 

129,955

 

 

 

(129,955

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Non-controlling Interest

 

 

2,694,159

 

 

 

(2,675,170

)

 

 

(18,989

)

 

 

 

 

-

 

Other Liabilities

 

 

1,159,669

 

 

 

(1,159,669

)

 

 

-

 

 

(s)

 

 

-

 

Liabilities at fair value through Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

440,618

 

 

 

(150,234

)

 

(f)

 

 

290,384

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,284,482

 

 

 

(254,009

)

 

(**)

 

 

3,030,473

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

57,594,377

 

 

 

(499,601

)

 

(o)

 

 

57,094,776

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial

   Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,779,829

 

 

 

(1,062,684

)

 

(p)

 

 

12,717,145

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

23,976,836

 

 

 

(2,128,376

)

 

(**)

 

 

21,848,460

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,648,743

 

 

 

(489,400

)

 

(**)

 

 

3,159,343

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,541

 

 

 

1,819,056

 

 

(q)

 

 

1,843,597

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,157,101

 

 

 

(2,939

)

 

(s)

 

 

1,154,162

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

18,687,269

 

 

 

(161,312

)

 

(r)

 

 

18,525,957

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

408,858,464

 

 

 

1,452,458

 

 

 

(5,369,406

)

 

 

 

 

404,941,516

 

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Capital Stock, Adjustments and Reserves

 

 

26,412,657

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,561,204

 

 

 

 

 

40,973,861

 

Retained Income

 

 

11,088,251

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9,632,425

)

 

 

 

 

1,455,826

 

Other Accumulated Comprehensive Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

523,621

 

 

 

 

 

523,621

 

Net Income for the Year

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

37,500,908

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,452,400

 

 

 

 

 

42,953,308

 

Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,675,168

 

 

 

44,402

 

 

 

 

 

2,719,570

 

TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

37,500,908

 

 

 

2,675,168

 

 

 

5,496,802

 

 

 

 

 

45,672,878

 

Commissions

Earning Frequency

Retail Products and Services
Savings AccountsMonthly
Checking AccountsMonthly
Credit-card RenewalAnnual
Safe Deposit BoxesQuarterly
Bonds and Shares TransactionsOn each transaction
Wholesale Products
Account MaintenanceMonthly
Deposits and Withdrawals among BranchesMonthly
Foreign Trade TransactionsOn each transaction

1.28.    INCOME TAX

The Income tax expense for the year comprises the current and the deferred taxes. Income tax is recognized in the consolidated statement of income, except when there are items that must be directly recognized in other comprehensive income. In this case, income tax liability related to such items is also recognized in this Statement.

The current income tax expense is calculated based on the tax laws enacted, or substantially enacted as of the date of the consolidated financial statements in the countries where the Group operates and generates taxable income. The Group periodically assesses the position assumed in tax returns as regards the situations in which tax laws are subject to interpretation. Likewise, when applicable, the Group sets up provisions on the amounts that it expects to be paid to tax authorities.

Deferred income tax is determined by the liability method on the temporary differences arising from the carrying amount of assets and liabilities and their tax base. However, the deferred tax that arises from the initial recognition of an asset or a liability in a transaction not corresponding to a business combination, which at the time of the transaction does not affect neither the profit nor the accounting or taxable loss, is not recorded. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates (and legislation) that have been enacted as of the date of the financial statements and are expected to be applicable when the deferred tax assets are realized, or the deferred tax liabilities are settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent future tax benefits are likely to arise against which the temporary differences might be offset.

The Group recognizes a deferred tax liability for taxable temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries and affiliates, unless the following two conditions are met:

 

(i)

the Group controls the timing on which temporary differences will be reversed, and.

(ii)

such temporary differences are not likely to be reversed in the foreseeable future.

The balances of deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when a legal right exists to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and to the extent such balances are related to the same tax authority of the Group or its subsidiaries, where tax balances are intended to be, and may be, settled on a net basis.

1.29.    EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the income attributable to parent company’s owners by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the financial year.

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the figures used in the determination of basic earnings per share assuming the conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

NOTE 2. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires Directors to exercise their judgment in applying the accounting standards to define the Group’s accounting policies.

The Group has identified the following areas involving a greater degree of judgment or complexity, or areas in where the assumptions and estimates are significant for the consolidated financial statements and which are essential to understand the underlying accounting/financial reporting risks.

a.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The fair value of financial instruments not listed in active markets is determined by using valuation techniques. Such techniques are periodically validated and reviewed by qualified personnel independent from the area or independent appraisers that developed them. All models are assessed and adjusted before they are used, to ensure that their results reflect the current information and comparable market prices. To the extent possible, the models rely only on observable inputs; however, certain factors such as projected cash flows, discount rates and volatilities and correlations relating to interest rates and spreads require the use of estimates. Changes in the assumptions about these factors can affect the reported fair value of the financial instruments.

(*)

The references are related to the explanations included in Note 3.5.

(**)

The adjustments are related to the deconsolidation of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (See Note 23).

F-28


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Consolidated Income Statement

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

12.31.17

 

 

Reclassifications

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

IFRS

12.31.17

 

Financial Income

 

 

66,765,368

 

 

 

(66,765,368

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Expenses

 

 

(30,038,123

)

 

 

30,038,123

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

(7,684,942

)

 

 

(18,664

)

 

 

409,750

 

 

 

(7,293,856

)

Fee Income

 

 

31,157,030

 

 

 

(31,157,030

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Fee-related Expenses

 

 

(9,785,476

)

 

 

9,785,476

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Administrative Expenses

 

 

(33,945,130

)

 

 

18,221,381

 

 

 

1,300,192

 

 

 

(14,423,557

)

Income (Loss) from Insurance Business

 

 

3,126,248

 

 

 

(90,404

)

 

 

279,068

 

 

 

3,314,912

 

Non-controlling Interest

 

 

(924,564

)

 

 

924,558

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

-

 

Miscellaneous Income

 

 

2,391,176

 

 

 

(2,391,176

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Miscellaneous Losses

 

 

(1,447,703

)

 

 

1,439,371

 

 

 

8,332

 

 

 

-

 

Interest Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

56,563,258

 

 

 

(1,869,536

)

 

 

54,693,722

 

Interest-related Expenses

 

 

-

 

 

 

(24,268,734

)

 

 

(550,953

)

 

 

(24,819,687

)

Fee Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

11,655,852

 

 

 

13,742,609

 

 

 

25,398,461

 

Fee-related Expenses

 

 

-

 

 

 

(3,743,746

)

 

 

490,911

 

 

 

(3,252,835

)

Net Income from Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,180,403

 

 

 

1,280,935

 

 

 

8,461,338

 

Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,161,203

 

 

 

317,658

 

 

 

3,478,861

 

Other Operating Income

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,442,293

 

 

 

(12,445,661

)

 

 

8,996,632

 

Personnel Expenses

 

 

-

 

 

 

(16,672,435

)

 

 

(416,237

)

 

 

(17,088,672

)

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,554,602

)

 

 

115,162

 

 

 

(1,439,440

)

Loss on Net Monetary Position

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,823,296

)

 

 

(6,823,296

)

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

-

 

 

 

(13,129,147

)

 

 

(1,476,079

)

 

 

(14,605,226

)

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

-

 

 

 

291,445

 

 

 

29,737

 

 

 

321,182

 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

 

(7,315,790

)

 

 

32,824

 

 

 

(36,061

)

 

 

(7,319,027

)

Income from Discontinued Operations

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(321,760

)

 

 

(321,760

)

Net Income

 

 

12,298,094

 

 

 

944,881

 

 

 

(5,965,223

)

 

 

7,277,752

 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

 

 

(434,732

)

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

 

 

(434,732

)

Total Comprehensive Income Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

12,298,094

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(5,939,238

)

 

 

6,358,856

 

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

-

 

 

 

944,881

 

 

 

(460,717

)

 

 

484,164

 

b.

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

The significant adjustments to Cash Flows, as required by IFRS 1, paragraph 25 are as follows:

a.

Under the prior accounting framework, Cash and Due from Banks and highly-liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less were considered to be Cash and Cash Equivalents. Under IFRS, Cash and Due from Banks, including foreign currency purchases and sales pending settlement with original maturities of three months or less, and highly-liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less are considered to be Cash and Cash Equivalents

b.

Under the prior accounting framework, cash and cash equivalents of equity investments in Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. (CFA) and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (CyS) were consolidated with those of the Group. Under IFRS, both companies are classified as Non-current Assets Held for Sale and, consequently, have not been consolidated.

The reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents is as follows:

The Group recognizes the allowance for loan losses under the expected credit losses method included in IFRS 9. The most significant judgments of the model relate to defining what is considered a significant increase in credit risk, identifying assets which are impaired or subject to serious risk of impairment, developing parameters such as the probabilities of default and the loss given default and making assumptions about macroeconomic scenarios. A high degree of uncertainty is involved in making estimations using assumptions that are highly subjective and very sensitive to the risk factors.

Furthermore, the level of estimation uncertainty and judgement has increased during 2020 as a result of the economic effects of the Covid-19 outbreak.

 

 

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

 

 

Cash Flows

from

Discontinued

Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

IFRS

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

12.31.17

 

 

Operations

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

12.31.17

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

56,659,196

 

 

 

(321,544

)

 

 

30,707,229

 

 

 

87,044,881

 

Argentine Central Bank Bills and Notes Maturing within up to 90 days

 

 

16,910,667

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,071,099

 

 

 

24,981,766

 

Receivables from Reverse Repo Transactions

 

 

9,654,517

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,599,952

 

 

 

14,254,469

 

Local Interbank Loans

 

 

365,000

 

 

 

570,000

 

 

 

445,486

 

 

 

1,380,486

 

Overnight Placements in Banks Abroad

 

 

269,278

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

157,404

 

 

 

426,682

 

Other Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

2,458,791

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,411,141

 

 

 

3,869,932

 

Total

 

 

86,317,449

 

 

 

248,456

 

 

 

45,392,311

 

 

 

131,958,216

 

c.

F-29IMPAIRMENT OF NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Intangible assets with finite useful lives and property, plant and equipment are amortized or depreciated on a straight-line basis during their estimated useful life. The Group monitors the conditions related to these assets to determine whether the events and circumstances require a review of the remaining amortization or depreciation term, and whether there are factors or circumstances indicating impairment in the value of the assets that cannot be recovered.

The Group has applied judgment to identify impairment indicators for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. The Group has concluded that there were no impairment indicators for any of the years reported in its consolidated financial statements.

 

d.

INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED TAX

 

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

 

 

Cash Flows

from

Discontinued

Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

IFRS

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

01.01.17

 

 

Operations

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

01.01.17

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

90,309,271

 

 

 

(580,607

)

 

 

31,455,315

 

 

 

121,183,979

 

Argentine Central Bank Bills and Notes Maturing within up to 90 days

 

 

9,797,693

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,922,565

 

 

 

12,720,258

 

Receivables from Reverse Repo Transactions

 

 

1,273,148

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

315,684

 

 

 

1,588,832

 

Local Interbank Loans

 

 

1,811,761

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

454,493

 

 

 

2,266,254

 

Overnight Placements in Banks Abroad

 

 

4,718,842

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,159,788

 

 

 

5,878,630

 

Total

 

 

107,910,715

 

 

 

(580,607

)

 

 

36,307,845

 

 

 

143,637,953

 

Significant judgment is required when determining current and deferred tax assets and liabilities. The current income tax is accounted according to the amounts expected to be paid; while deferred income tax is accounted on the basis of temporary differences between carrying amount of assets and liabilities and their tax base, at the rates expected to be in force at the time of their reversal.

A deferred tax asset is recognized when future taxable income is expected to exist to offset such temporary differences, based on Management’s assumptions about the amounts and timing of such future taxable income. Then, management needs to determine whether deferred tax assets are likely to be used and offset against future taxable income. Actual results may differ from these estimates, for instance, changes in the applicable tax laws or the outcome of the final review of the tax returns by the tax authorities and tax courts.

Future taxable income and the number of tax benefits likely to be available in the future are based on a medium-term business plan prepared by management, on the basis of expectations which are deemed reasonable.

NOTE 3. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Schedule P “Categories of Financial Assets and Liabilities”, discloses the measurement categories and fair value hierarchies for financial instruments.

As of the indicated dates, the Group maintains the following portfolios of financial instruments:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Portfolio of Instruments as of 12.31.2020

  Fair Value
through Profit
or Loss
   Amortized Cost   Fair Value
through OCI
 

Assets

      

Cash and Due from Banks

   —      175,423,476    —   

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills and Notes

   128,324,920    —      —   

Government Securities

   24,282,643    —      —   

Corporate Securities

   2,811,997    —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   2,165,032    —      —   

Repurchase Transactions

   —      60,995,643    —   

Other Financial Assets

   2,791,983    7,301,643    —   

Loans and Other Financing

   —      526,434,119    —   

Other Debt Securities

   —      18,885,279    4,185,098 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   2,035,559    16,681,884    —   

Investments in Equity Instruments

   5,711,684    —      —   

Liabilities

      

Deposits

   —      676,395,735    —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   57,450    —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

   —      97,471,465    —   

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   —      13,833,439    —   

Debt Securities

   —      17,073,898    —   

Subordinated Debt Securities

   —      21,653,546    —   

Portfolio of Instruments as of 12.31.2019

  Fair Value
through Profit
or Loss
   Amortized Cost   Fair Value
through OCI
 

Assets

      

Cash and Due from Banks

   —      177,866,400    —   

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills and Notes

   79,153,628    —      —   

Government Securities

   9,121,674    —      —   

Corporate Securities

   1,156,076    —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   3,170,815    —      —   

Repurchase Transactions

   —      40,944,933    —   

Other Financial Assets

   6,840,391    8,019,809    —   

Loans and Other Financing

   —      488,144,152    —   

Other Debt Securities

   —      4,224,883    21,668,553 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   2,362,981    13,362,055    —   

Investments in Equity Instruments

   6,200,459    —      —   

Liabilities

      

Deposits

   —      536,033,696    —   

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

   1,936,133    —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   1,199,533    —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

   —      97,153,624    —   

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   —      30,936,161    —   

Debt Securities

   —      39,808,666    —   

Subordinated Debt Securities

   —      21,100,718    —   

NOTE 4. FAIR VALUES

The Group classifies the fair values of the financial instruments in 3 levels, according to the quality of the data used for their determination

Fair Value Level 1: The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets (as publicly traded derivative instruments, debt securities or instruments available for sale) is based on the quoted market prices as of the date of the reporting period. If the quoted price is available and there is an active market for the instrument, this will be included in Level 1. Otherwise, it will be included in Level 2.

Fair Value Level 2: The fair value of financial instruments not traded in active markets, for example, over-the-counter derivatives, is determined using valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and rely to the lower extent possible in the Group’s specific estimates. If all the significant inputs required to obtain the fair value of a financial instrument are observable, the instrument is included in Level 2. If the inputs required to determine the price are not observable, the instrument will be included in Level 3.

Fair Value Level 3: If one or more relevant inputs are not based on observable market data, the instrument is included in Level 3. This is the case of unlisted financial instruments.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

When observable market prices are no longer available, the instrument will be included in Level 3. The instrument will return to Level 1 only when it has observable market price, and it will maintain that Level if it continues quoting. This is called transfer between levels.

Valuation Techniques

The valuation techniques to determine fair values include:

Market prices for similar instruments.

 

c.

Under the prior accounting framework, cash flows from Intangible Assets, Dividend Income from Investments in Associates and Cash Flows with the Argentine Central Bank were disclosed as cash flows provided by operating activities. Under IFRS, cash flows from Intangible Assets and Dividend Income from Investments in Subsidiaries and Associates are disclosed as cash flows provided by investing activities, while those from loans from the Argentine Central Bank are disclosed as cash flows provided by financing activities.

d.

Cash flows from CFA and CyS, as mentioned in point b. above, have not been consolidated under IFRS.

The reconciliation of cash flows is as follows:

Determining the estimated present value of instruments.

The valuation technique to determine the fair value Level 2 is based on data other than the quoted price included in Level 1, which are directly observable for assets or liabilities (i.e., prices). For those instruments with no secondary market and which, if having to reverse positions, the Group would have to sell them to the Argentine Central Bank at the rate originally agreed in accordance with the provisions of the controlling authority, the price has been prepared based on such rate accrual.

Financial instruments classified as level 3 mainly include equity instruments for which the fair value was calculated with the assistance of independent appraisers using methods of future discounted cash flows involving a combined income and market approach. The fair value of the related put option derivative classified as level 3 was estimated using a valuation technique based on the binomial method considering different scenarios. The most relevant unobservable input data include the projected EBITDA and the discount rate (WACC—Weighted Average Cost of Capital) used in the estimations.

The valuation technique to determine the fair value of other Level 3 financial instruments is based on a method that compares the existing spread between the curve of sovereign bonds and the average yield of primary offerings, for different segments, according to the different risk ratings. If there are no representative primary offerings during the month, the following alternatives will be used:

 

 

 

Prior

Accounting

Framework

 

 

CFA + CyS

Discontinued

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Inflation effect

 

 

IFRS

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

12.31.17

 

 

Operations

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Inflation effect

 

 

12.31.17

 

Operating Activities (I)

 

 

(1,305,475

)

 

 

1,580,060

 

 

 

(3,172,810

)

 

 

(1,288,999

)

 

 

(4,187,224

)

Investing Activities (II)

 

 

(2,580,126

)

 

 

459,805

 

 

 

1,069,869

 

 

 

(592,368

)

 

 

(1,642,820

)

Financing Activities (III)

 

 

15,816,746

 

 

 

(987,404

)

 

 

(4,316,983

)

 

 

5,008,673

 

 

 

15,521,032

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

 

7,602,047

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9,490,347

)

 

 

(899,692

)

 

 

(2,787,992

)

Total

 

 

19,533,192

 

 

 

1,052,461

 

 

 

(15,910,271

)

 

 

2,227,614

 

 

 

6,902,996

 

(i)

Secondary market prices of instruments under the same conditions, which had quoted in the evaluation month.

 

(I) Operating Activities

(ii)

prior-month bidding and/or secondary market prices, which will be taken based on their representativeness.

 

(iii)

Cash Flows According to Prior Accounting Framework as of 12.31.17

(1,305,475

)

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations

1,580,060

Adjustments that Affect Cash Flows from Operating Activities

(4,528,664

)

Inflation effect

(1,288,999

)

Intangible Assets

2,317,755

Miscellaneous Assets

(818,745

)

Other Collections Related to Subsidiaries

153,563

Dividends from Associates

(296,719

)

Cash Flows According to IFRS as of 12.31.17

(4,187,224

)

(II) Investing Activities

Cash Flows According to Prior Accounting Framework as of 12.31.17

(2,580,126

)

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations

459,805

Miscellaneous Assets

818,745

Dividends from Associates

296,719

Differences in the determination of Financing Activities

2,425,723

Other Collections Related to Subsidiaries

(153,563

)

Inflation effect

(592,368

)

Intangible Assets

(2,317,755

)

Cash Flows According to IFRS as of 12.31.17

(1,642,820

)

(III) Financing Activities

Cash Flows According to Prior Accounting Framework as of 12.31.17

15,816,746

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations

(987,404

)

Inflation effect

5,008,673

Differences in the determination of Financing Activities

(4,316,983

)

Cash Flows According to  IFRS as of 12.31.17

15,521,032

Effect of Changes in the Exchange Rate

Cash Flows According to Prior Accounting Framework as of 12.31.17

7,602,047

Inflation effect

(899,692

)

Differences in the determination of Financing Activities

(9,490,347

)

Cash Flows According to IFRS as of 12.31.17

(2,787,992

)

F-30


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3.2.Optional Exemptions to IFRS

IFRS 1 allows entities that adopt IFRS for the first time to consider certain one-time exemptions. Such exemptions have been established by the IASB to make the first application of certain IFRS simpler, eliminating the mandatory nature of their retrospective application.

Below are the optional exemptions applicableprior month spread applied to the Group under IFRS 1:sovereign curve.

1.

(iv)

Deemed Cost of Property, Plant and Equipment: The fair value of certain items of property, plant and equipment has been adopted as deemed cost as of the date of transition to IFRS.

The accumulated fair value totaled $6,880,487 and the adjustment to the carrying amount presentedA specific margin is applied, defined according to the prior accounting framework amounted to $4,832,716, outhistorical yields of which $4,475,869 was recorded under "Property, Plant and Equipment" and $356,847 under "Other Non-financial Assets".

2.

Business Combinations: The Group has opted for not applying IFRS 3 “Business Combinations” retrospectively for business combinations prior to the date of transition to IFRS.

3.

Assets and Liabilities of Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Ventures: The Group has adopted IFRS for the first time after its subsidiary Tarjetas Regionales S.A. and its related subsidiaries. Consequently, it has measured the assets and liabilities of such subsidiaries in its consolidated financial statements for the same carrying amounts disclosed in their financial statements.

The Group has not made use of other exemptions available in IFRS 1.

3.3.Mandatory Exceptions to IFRS

Below are the mandatory exceptions applicable to the Group under IFRS 1:

1.

Estimates: The estimates made by the Group under to IFRS as of January 1, 2017 (date of transition to IFRS) are consistent with the estimates made as of the same date according to the prior accounting framework.

2.

Derecognition of financial assets and liabilities: The Group applied the derecognition criteria of financial assets and liabilities under IFRS 9 prospectively for transactions occurred after January 1, 2017.

3.

Classification and measurement of financial assets: The Group has considered the facts and circumstances at the date of transition to IFRS (January 1, 2017) to assess the classification of financial assets in the three measurement categories established by IFRS 9.

4.

Impairment of financial assets: At the date of transition to IFRSs, the Group used reasonable and supportable information that was available without undue cost or effort to determine the credit risk at the date that financial instruments were initially recognised (or for loan commitments and financial guarantee contracts the date that the entity became a party to the irrevocable commitment) and compare that to the credit risk at the date of transition to IFRSs. If, at the date of transition to IFRSs, determining whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk since the initial recognition of a financial instrument required undue cost or effort, the Group recognised a loss allowance at an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses until that financial instrument is derecognised.

5.

Other mandatory exceptions established by IFRS 1 that have not been applied because of not being material to the Group are:

-

Hedge accounting.

-

Non-controlling interests

-

Embedded derivatives

-

Government loans

The other exceptions established by IFRS 1 have not been applied because of not being material to the Group.

F-31


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3.4.RECLASSIFICATIONS

The items recognized under the prior accounting framework, which were reclassified accordingsame conditions.

As stated above, the rates and spreads to be used to discount future cash flows and originate the price of the instrument are determined.

All the modifications to the valuation methods are previously discussed and approved by the Group’s key personnel.

The Group’s financial instruments measured at fair value at the end of the reporting period are detailed below:

Portfolio of Instruments as of 12.31.20

  Fair Value Level
1
   Fair Value Level
2
   Fair Value Level
3
 

Assets

      

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills and Notes

   —      128,324,920    —   

Government Securities

   23,170,495    911,380    200,768 

Corporate Securities

   1,653,980    —      1,158,017 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      547,929    1,617,103 

Other Financial Assets

   2,760,728    31,255    —   

Other Debt Securities (*)

   604,996    3,580,102    —   

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   2,035,559    —      —   

Investments in Equity Investments

   234,774    —      5,476,910 

Liabilities

      

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      57,450    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   30,460,532    133,338,136    8,452,798 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(*)

It relates to IFRS and as detailed in point 3.1., are described below.

3.4.1. Assets

Spot Purchases and Sales Pending Settlement: According to prior accounting framework, these transactions were recorded as "Other Receivables Resulting from Financial Brokerage" and "Other Liabilities Resulting from Financial Brokerage", respectively. Upon adopting the trade-date accounting, a spot purchase transaction pending settlement will imply recording the security to be received in the respective account, with the applicable measurement criterion, while the spot sale pending settlement will imply the derecognition of the security. The currency transactions pending settlement have been reclassified as cash equivalents and those related to securities have been included in the respective holdings.

Reverse Repo Transactions: Under the prior accounting framework, the security was recognized in the holding and the obligation to deliver it at the end of the transaction in "Other Liabilities Resulting from Financial Brokerage". The loan granted was recorded in "Other Receivables Resulting from Financial Brokerage". Under IFRS, the financial assets acquired through reverse repo transactions for which the risks and rewards have not been transferred shall be recognized as a loan granted with securities offered as collateral. Therefore, the securities were derecognized.

Leasehold Improvements: According to the prior accounting framework, they were disclosed under "Intangible Assets". According to IFRS, they are part of "Property, Plant and Equipment".

Equity Investments: In Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.’s Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on August 31, 2017, the shareholders decided to transfer all of the shares held in the investee (see Note 55). Therefore, according to IFRS 5 is the investment was reclassified to "Non-current Assets Held for Sale" andGovernment Securities measured at the lower of the carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell at closing. Such reclassification was made as of December 31, 2017.

Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. were disposed of on February 2, 2018 (see Note 23). Under the prior accounting framework they were disclosed under "Equity Investments". Under IFRS they were reclassified to "Non-current Assets Held for Sale" and measured at the lower of the carrying amount and fair value less cost to sell.

Repurchase of Debt Securities: Repurchased debt securities were included within the debt investment portfolio under the prior accounting framework. Under IFRS an issuer's repurchase of its own debt is considered a settlement of the related obligation.

Repurchase of Non-controlling Interests: As of December 31, 2017, a financial liability has been recognized for the purchase of a 6% interest in Tarjetas Regionales S.A. IFRS 32, paragraph 23, sets forth that a commitment to buy own shares is to be accounted for as a financial liability for the present value of the redemption price. The liability is recognized with its corresponding offsetting entry in equity, for the risks and rewards associated with the shares are retained by the non-controlling shareholders until the actual transfer of such shares. The transaction totaled $1,364,452 and the amount recognized against other shareholders' equity reserves was $593,980.

3.4.2. Income Statement

Fees on Origination of Loans and Lending Expenses: According to the prior accounting framework, structuring fees were disclosed under "Fee Income" and lending expenses under "Fee-related Expenses". According to IFRS 9, such fees are part of the cash flows taken into account to determine the IRR on loans.

3.5.ADJUSTMENTS AS OF THE DATE OF TRANSITION

(a)

According to the prior accounting framework, structuring fees were disclosed under "Fee Income" and lending expenses under "Fee-related Expenses". According to IFRS 9, such fees are part of the cash flows taken into account to determine the IRR on loans.

(b)

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures: Upon applying the equity method, the Group has used the associates' financial statements. The shareholders’ equity arising from the financial statements have been adjusted to reflect the adoption of IFRS in those entities.

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.

 

 

-

 

 

 

245,250

 

Ondara S.A.

 

 

-

 

 

 

(102

)

Total

 

 

-

 

 

 

245,148

 

F-32


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(c)

Property, Plant and Equipment: The fair value of certain items of property, plant and equipment has been adopted as deemed cost as of the date of transition to IFRS, as described in 3.2, net of the related impact on accumulated depreciation.

(d)

Intangible Assets: The prior accounting framework allowed the recognition of intangible assets items such as organization and reorganization expenses and other items. Under IFRS such assets have been derecognized and the amortization generated under the prior accounting framework has been reversed.

(e)

Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss: The prior accounting framework established that government and private securities included in the list of volatilities periodically published by the Argentine Central Bank should be measured at fair value. The securities not included in those lists were measured at acquisition cost plus the IRR.

The adjustment disclosed is the result of measuring at fair value through profit or loss the securities classified in that business model.

The Group has classified the following financial assets into this category: Holdings in government and private securities, in instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank, in debt securities and certain investments in debt securities issued by financial trusts.

(f)

Derivative Financial Instruments: The adjustment is that resulting from applying the techniques specified in Notes 1.10 and 8 to the Group's option portfolio.other comprehensive income.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Portfolio of Instruments as of 12.31.19

  Fair Value Level
1
   Fair Value Level
2
   Fair Value Level
3
 

Assets

      

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills and Notes

   —      79,153,628    —   

Government Securities

   2,052,669    —      7,069,005 

Corporate Securities

   904,405    —      251,671 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      1,903,979    1,266,836 

Other Financial Assets

   6,789,474    50,917    —   

Other Debt Securities (*)

   21,668,553    —      —   

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   957,979    —      1,405,002 

Equity Investments

   220,552    —      5,979,907 

Liabilities

      

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

   1,936,133    —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      1,199,533    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   30,657,499    79,908,991    15,972,421 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(g)

(*)

Other Financial Assets: The adjustment is related to the consolidation of the financial assets under IFRS of Financial Trust Galtrust I and Financial Trust Saturno Créditos, which did not qualify as controlled entities under the prior accounting framework.

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Premiums for Financial Guarantee Contracts

 

 

241,350

 

 

 

248,044

 

CyS Deconsolidation

 

 

(13,005

)

 

 

-

 

Consolidation of Financial Trusts that Were Not Subject to Consolidation under the Prior Accounting Framework

 

 

(169,207

)

 

 

(913,929

)

Total

 

 

59,138

 

 

 

(665,885

)

(h)

Loans and Other Financing: In accordance to the prior accounting framework, they were recorded at their acquisition cost plus interest accrued based on the contractual rate. In compliance with the provisions set out in IFRS 9, they areIt relates to Government Securities measured at amortized cost.

(i)

Other Debt Securities: As described in the preceding paragraph, the adjustment relates to debt securities of financial trusts which have been measured at amortized cost, based on the business model assessment types of cash flows.

The Financial Trust Galtrust I has measured its holding of government securities at fair value through OCI in accordance with IFRS, based onother comprehensive income.

The evolution of instruments included in Level 3 Fair Value is detailed below:

Level 3

  12.31.19   Transfers(*)  Recognition   Derecognition  Income
(Loss)
  Inflation
Effect
  12.31.20 

Government Securities

   7,069,005    (1,734,412  18,522,437    (22,946,325  915,243   (1,625,180  200,768 

Corporate Securities

   251,671    123,615   3,850,367    (2,996,313  99,825   (171,148  1,158,017 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   1,266,836    —     —      —     686,568   (336,301  1,617,103 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   1,405,002    (209,844  700,459    (1,580,566  (162,288  (152,763  —   

Investments in Equity Instruments

   5,979,907    —     —      —     1,052,243   (1,555,240  5,476,910 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   15,972,421    (1,820,641  23,073,263    (27,523,204  2,591,591   (3,840,632  8,452,798 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

(*)

They include the business model assessments and the instrument’s cash flow characteristics (SPPI).

(j)

Investments in Equity Instruments: Under the IFRS, investments in equity instruments measured at cost under the prior accounting framework were reclassified to "Listed Private Securities" and measured at fair value through profit or loss.

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Banco Galicia's Holdings

 

 

81,109

 

 

 

73,888

 

Galicia Valores S.A.'s Holdings

 

 

-

 

 

 

57,211

 

Total

 

 

81,109

 

 

 

131,099

 

F-33


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(k)

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral: The adjustment arises from the measurement at fair value with changes in profit or loss of monetary regulation instruments offered as collateral. Under the prior accounting framework, these assets were measured at cost plus IRR.

(l)

Other Non-financial Assets: The adjustment corresponds to: (i) derecognition of systems licenses, the capitalization of which is not allowed under IFRS, and (ii) the adoption of fair value as deemed cost for miscellaneous assets.

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Derecognition of Advances for Systems Purchased

 

 

(659,590

)

 

 

(955,579

)

Miscellaneous Assets

 

 

278,561

 

 

 

382,079

 

Total

 

 

(381,029

)

 

 

(573,500

)

(m)

Non-current Assets Held for Sale: Under the prior accounting framework the investments in Prima Medios de Pago S.A. was measured at cost, however under IFRS the investment constitutes an associate under IAS 28. As a consequence, the adjustment corresponds to the application of the equity method prior to its reclassification as "Non-current Assets Held for Sale", as described in Note 3.5.

(n)

Provisions: Relates to the adjustment for the measurement of the liability in accordance with the likelihood criteria of IAS 37 ("more likely than not") for contingencies related to labor and commercial legal actions.

(o)

Other Financial Liabilities: The adjustment relates to the measurement of guarantees granted, according to paragraph 4.2.1 c) of IFRS 9, which did not require balance sheet disclosure under the prior accounting framework.

(p)

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions: Relates to the measurement at amortized cost, of the loans received, in accordance with IFRS. Under the prior accounting framework, interest was accrued applying the contractual rate.

(q)

Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities: The deferred tax is recognized in accordance with the liability method, the temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements and is determined using tax rates (and laws) enacted or substantially enacted as of the balance sheet date and expected to be applicable when the related deferred tax assets are realized or the deferred tax liabilities are settled.

By applying the prior accounting framework, Banco Galicia only recognized the current tax for the fiscal year.

(r)

Other Non-financial Liabilities: Relates to the deferred income for the Quiero! Customer loyalty program. Under the prior accounting framework the loyalty program was measured on the basis of the cost of granted points. Under IFRS, consideration is allocated based on the relative standalone selling prices for services rendered and points granted, which are accounted for at the fair value of the points and are accumulated based on the redemption rate, until such time as points are redeemed by costumers.

(s)

Liabilities Recognized by Insurance Companies: Under IFRS, an insurance company will evaluate, at the end of the period reported, the adjustment of insurance liabilities that have been recognized, using the current estimates of future cash flows from insurance contracts. If the evaluation shows that the carrying amount of its liabilities for insurance contracts (less deferred acquisition costs and related intangible assets) is not adequate, considering the estimated future cash flows, the total amount of the inadequacy will be recognized in profit or loss. Under the prior accounting framework, the accounting policies followed by the insurance company do not require performing an adequacy test of liabilities. According to IFRS 4, in this case, the insurance company shall determine the adjustment of the carrying amount recorded according to the guidelines set out in IAS 37.

F-34


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Schedule P "Categoriesmovements of Financial Assets and Liabilities" discloses the measurement categories to which the consolidated balance sheet items and the fair value hierarchies relate.

As of the indicated dates, the Group maintains the following portfolios of financial instruments:

Instruments Portfolio as of 12.31.2018

 

Fair Value

through  Profit

or Loss

 

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

Fair Value

through OCI

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

4,699,806

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Private Securities

 

 

1,137,593

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,303,431

 

 

 

4,744,501

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

-

 

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,312,035

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

3,459,712

 

 

 

7,357,780

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

161,054

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

-

 

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

-

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

2,144,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

63,235,042

 

 

 

-

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

19,446,028

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

29,983,653

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,767,874

 

 

 

-

 

Instruments Portfolio as of 12.31.2017

 

Fair Value

through  Profit

or Loss

 

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

Fair Value

through OCI

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

26,367,677

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

13,923,160

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Private Securities

 

 

2,456,960

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,573,809

 

 

 

5,765,447

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

-

 

 

 

284,354,759

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,040,087

 

 

 

142,450

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

2,249,914

 

 

 

7,096,874

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

111,923

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

-

 

 

 

296,367,356

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

846,331

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

55,350,799

 

 

 

-

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

11,618,302

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

20,279,165

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,128,356

 

 

 

-

 

F-35


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Instruments Portfolio as of 01.01.17

 

Fair Value

through  Profit

or Loss

 

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

Fair Value

through OCI

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

16,158,217

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

9,659,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Private Securities

 

 

2,999,968

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

229,436

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,616,737

 

 

 

2,102,844

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

-

 

 

 

245,703,421

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,253,595

 

 

 

930,257

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

4,205,704

 

 

 

5,889,889

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

187,135

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

-

 

 

 

277,077,562

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

290,384

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,030,473

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

57,094,776

 

 

 

-

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,717,145

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,848,460

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,490,444

 

 

 

-

 

NOTE 5. FAIR VALUES

The Group classifies the fair valueslevels of financial instruments in three levels, according to the reliability of the inputs used to determine them.

Fair Value Level 1: The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets (suchclassified as publicly-traded derivatives, debt securities or available for sale) is based on the quoted prices of markets (unadjusted) as of the date of the reporting period. If the quote price is available and there is an active market for the instrument, it will be included in Level 1. Otherwise, it will be included in Level 2.

Fair Value Level 2: The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in active markets, for example, over-the-counter derivatives, is determined using valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable market data and rely as little as possible on the Group's specific estimates. If all the significant inputs required to fair value and instrument are observable, the instrument is included in Level 2. If the inputs used to determine the price are not observable and significant, the instrument will be included in Level 3.

Fair Value Level 3: If one or more significant inputs are not based on observable market data, the instrument is included in Level 3. This is the case of unlisted equity instruments.

That is to say, when observable market prices are no longer available, the instrument will be transferred into Level 3. Only when an instrument has an observable listed price in the market, it will return to Level 1 and will keep that Level while it continues to be quoted. This is known as transfer among levels.

Valuation Techniques

Valuation techniques to determine fair values include:

-

Market or quoted prices for similar instruments.

-

Determining the estimated present value of instruments.

The valuation technique to determine the fair value Level 2 is based on inputs other than the quoted price included in Level 1 that are readily observable for the asset or liability (i.e., prices). For those instruments for which there is no secondary market and, if positions should be disposed of, the Group should sell to the Argentine Central Bank at the originally agreed-upon rate, as established by the Regulator, the price has been determinated based on such rate accrual.

The valuation technique to determine the fair value of Level 3 financial instruments is based on a method that compares the existing spread between the curve of sovereign bonds and the average yield of primary offerings, for different segments, according to the different risk ratings. If there are no representative primary offerings during the month, the following alternatives will be used:

(i)

Secondary market prices of securities under the same conditions, which have been quoted in the month of evaluation;

(ii)

prior-month bidding and/or secondary market prices, and will be taken depending on how representative they are;

F-36


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(iii)

prior month spread applied to the sovereign curve;

(iv)

a specific margin is applied, determined based on comparable instruments historical return.

As stated above, the rates and spreads to be used to discount future cash flows and originate the price of the instrument are determined.

All the changes to valuation methods are previously discussed and approved by the Group's key personnel.

The Group's financial instruments measured at fair value at fiscal year-end are as follows:

Instruments Portfolio as of 12.31.18

 

Fair Value Level 1

 

 

Fair Value Level 2

 

 

Fair Value Level 3

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

-

 

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

2,952,344

 

 

 

1,278,048

 

 

 

469,414

 

Private Securities

 

 

308,755

 

 

 

36,270

 

 

 

792,568

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,264,431

 

 

 

39,000

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities (*)

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

3,184,346

 

 

 

275,366

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

26,795

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

134,259

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

1,366,785

 

 

 

777,879

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

18,481,985

 

 

 

70,898,420

 

 

 

1,396,241

 

(*)

It relates to Secured Bonds issued by Argentina measured at fair value with changes in OCI.

Instruments Portfolio as of 12.31.17

 

Fair Value Level 1

 

 

Fair Value Level 2

 

 

Fair Value Level 3

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

26,367,677

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

13,679,229

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

243,931

 

Private Securities

 

 

1,009,000

 

 

 

5,906

 

 

 

1,442,054

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,516,227

 

 

 

57,582

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities (*)

 

 

142,450

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

2,249,914

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

28,233

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

83,690

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

846,331

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

47,992,730

 

 

 

(7,169

)

 

 

1,769,675

 

(*)

It relates to Secured Bonds issued by Argentina measured at fair value with changes in OCI.

Instruments Portfolio as of 01.01.17

 

Fair Value Level 1

 

 

Fair Value Level 2

 

 

Fair Value Level 3

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

16,158,217

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Government Securities

 

 

7,110,319

 

 

 

1,972,400

 

 

 

576,840

 

Private Securities

 

 

778,214

 

 

 

10,541

 

 

 

2,211,213

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

229,436

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities (*)

 

 

930,257

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,544,877

 

 

 

71,860

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

4,205,704

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

93,727

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

93,408

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

290,384

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

33,821,315

 

 

 

1,993,853

 

 

 

2,881,461

 

(*)

It relates to Secured Bonds issued by Argentina measured at fair value with changes in OCI.

Changes in instruments included in fair value Level 3, are as follows:described above.

F-37


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Level 3

  12.31.18   Transfers(*)  Recognition   Derecognition  Income
(Loss)
  Inflation
Effect
  12.31.19 

Government Securities

   983,085    9,025,790   24,808,830    (26,392,026  (1,247,071  (109,603  7,069,005 

Corporate Securities

   1,659,863    29,357   8,855,903    (9,903,261  372,290   (762,481  251,671 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      —     1,743,456    —     —     (476,620  1,266,836 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   —      2,962,544   1,299,228    (2,378,488  (496,746  18,464   1,405,002 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   281,177    (29,423  7,198,058    —     438,721   (1,908,626  5,979,907 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   2,924,125    11,988,268   43,905,475    (38,673,775  (932,806  (3,238,866  15,972,421 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Level 3

 

12.31.17

 

 

Transfers(*)

 

 

Purchases

 

 

Sales

 

 

Income

(Loss)

 

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

12.31.18

 

Government Securities

 

 

243,931

 

 

 

1,255,553

 

 

 

10,382,946

 

 

 

(11,115,519

)

 

 

149,564

 

 

 

(447,061

)

 

 

469,414

 

Private Securities

 

 

1,442,054

 

 

 

389,298

 

 

 

6,352,483

 

 

 

(7,084,950

)

 

 

372,340

 

 

 

(678,657

)

 

 

792,568

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

83,690

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

86,938

 

 

 

(36,369

)

 

 

134,259

 

Total

 

 

1,769,675

 

 

 

1,644,851

 

 

 

16,735,429

 

 

 

(18,200,469

)

 

 

608,842

 

 

 

(1,162,087

)

 

 

1,396,241

 

(*)

(*)

They include the movements of levels of financial instruments classified as fair value Level 3, as described above.

Level 3

 

01.01.17.

 

 

Transfers(*)

 

 

Purchases

 

 

Sales

 

 

Income

(Loss)

 

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

12.31.17

 

Government Securities

 

 

576,840

 

 

 

(234,067

)

 

 

450,486

 

 

 

(504,713

)

 

 

46,969

 

 

 

(91,584

)

 

 

243,931

 

Private Securities

 

 

2,211,213

 

 

 

(434,784

)

 

 

2,626,022

 

 

 

(2,789,653

)

 

 

233,810

 

 

 

(404,554

)

 

 

1,442,054

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

93,408

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,776

 

 

 

(19,494

)

 

 

83,690

 

Total

 

 

2,881,461

 

 

 

(668,851

)

 

 

3,076,508

 

 

 

(3,294,366

)

 

 

290,555

 

 

 

(515,632

)

 

 

1,769,675

 

(*)

They include the movements of levels of financial instruments classified as fair value Level 3, as described above.

The Group's policy is to recognize transfers among fair value levels only as of year-end dates. They resulted from the transfer to Level 3, of the instruments that no longer have observable inputs as of the year-end the movement to Level 1 of the instruments that have observable quoted prices.described above.

The Group’s policy is to recognize transfers between the fair value levels only at the end of the reporting period. Transfers occurred because the instruments without observable market prices were reclassified at Level 3, and the instruments with observable market prices at the end of the year were reclassified at Level 1.

The Group included below the fair value of the instruments not carried at fair value as of the year-end.

Items of Assets/(Liabilities) as of 12.31.20

  Book Value   Fair Value   Fair Value
Level 1
   Fair Value
Level 2
   Fair Value
Level 3
 

Assets

          

Cash and Due from Banks

   175,423,476    175,423,476    175,423,476    —      —   

Repurchase Transactions

   60,995,643    60,995,643    60,995,643    —      —   

Loans and Other Financing

   526,434,119    527,834,544    —      —      527,834,544 

Other Financial Assets

   7,301,643    7,161,885    4,399,582    —      2,762,303 

Other Debt Securities

   18,885,279    18,878,854    —      —      18,878,854 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   16,681,884    16,681,884    16,681,884    —      —   

Liabilities

          

Deposits

   676,395,735    676,454,768    —      —      676,454,768 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   13,833,439    9,934,732    —      —      9,934,732 

Debt Securities

   17,073,898    16,207,692    12,208,069    —      3,999,623 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   21,653,546    18,850,289    —      —      18,850,289 

Other Financial Liabilities

   97,471,465    97,083,349    —      —      97,083,349 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Items of Assets/(Liabilities) as of 12.31.19

  Book Value   Fair Value   Fair Value
Level 1
   Fair Value
Level 2
   Fair Value
Level 3
 

Assets

          

Cash and Due from Banks

   177,866,399    177,866,399    177,866,399    —      —   

Repurchase Transactions

   40,944,933    40,944,933    40,944,933    —      —   

Loans and Other Financing

   488,144,152    487,184,349    —      —      487,184,349 

Other Financial Assets

   8,019,809    8,796,107    9,228    —      8,786,879 

Other Debt Securities

   4,224,883    4,233,738    —      —      4,233,738 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   13,362,055    13,362,054    13,362,054    —      —   

Liabilities

          

Deposits

   536,033,696    536,246,597    —      —      536,246,597 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   30,936,161    29,554,907    —      —      29,554,907 

Debt Securities

   39,808,666    40,333,927    40,333,927    —      —   

Subordinated Debt Securities

   21,100,718    20,384,249    —      —      20,384,249 

Other Financial Liabilities

   97,153,624    96,516,196    —      —      96,516,196 

NOTE 5. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash equivalents are held to meet short-term payment commitments, rather than for investment or similar purposes. A financial asset is classified as cash equivalent, if it can be readily convertible into a certain amount of cash and its risk of changes in value is immaterial. Accordingly, an investment with original maturity of three months or less is classified as cash equivalent. Equity interests are excluded from cash equivalents.

Cash and cash equivalents break down as follows:

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Cash and Due from Banks

   175,423,476    177,866,399    300,130,550 

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills and Notes Maturing up to 90 Days

   128,324,920    79,153,628    146,845,198 

Reverse repurchase Transactions Debtors

   60,842,046    40,837,234    4,309,110 

Loans to Financial Institutions

   6,500,000    —      1,964,438 

Overnight Placements in Foreign Banks

   1,661,834    10,720,687    11,101,128 

Mutual Funds

   2,760,728    6,764,519    8,083,157 

Time Deposits

   3,306,869    665,630    598,963 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents

   378,819,873    316,008,097    473,032,544 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The risk analysis for cash and cash equivalents is presented in Note 45. The information with related parties is disclosed in Note 51.

NOTE 6. DEBT SECURITIES AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS

The Group’s debt securities at fair value through profit or loss are detailed in Schedule A.

The credit quality of debt securities is disclosed in Note 45.

NOTE 7. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FORWARD EXCHANGE CONTRACT WITH NO DELIVERY OF THE UNDERLYING ASSET

The Electronic Open Market (Mercado Abierto Electrónico, MAE) and the Rosario Forward Market (ROFEX) have trading areas for the closing, recording and settlement of forward financial transactions between their Agents, including Banco Galicia. In general, the settlement of these transactions is made without delivering the underlying asset. The settlement is carried out daily in Argentine pesos for the difference, if any, between the closing price traded of the underlying asset and the closing price or value of the underlying asset of the previous day, the price difference impacting on Income.

The transactions are recorded in Off-balance Sheet Items The accrued balances pending settlement are disclosed in the “Derivative Financial Instruments” line, in Assets and/or Liabilities, as appropriate.

Assets/(Liabilities) Accounts

 

Carrying

Amount

 

 

Fair Value

 

 

Fair Value

Level 1

 

 

Fair Value

Level 2

 

 

Fair Value

Level 3

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

289,581,428

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

289,581,428

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

9,047,932

 

 

 

9,047,932

 

 

 

9,047,932

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

14,631,751

 

 

 

763,126

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,868,625

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

359,875,025

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

359,875,025

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

19,446,028

 

 

 

17,689,372

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,689,372

 

Debt Securities

 

 

29,983,653

 

 

 

29,269,086

 

 

 

29,269,086

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

9,767,874

 

 

 

8,513,061

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,513,061

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

1,944,965

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,944,965

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

63,235,042

 

 

 

63,235,113

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

63,235,113

 

NOTE 6. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash equivalents are held to meet short-term payment commitments, rather than for investment or similar purposes. In order for a financial asset to be classified as cash equivalents, it should be readily convertible into a certain amount of cash and its risk of changes in value should be immaterial. Accordingly, an investment with original maturity of three months or less is classified as cash equivalent. Equity interests are excluded from cash equivalents.

Cash and cash equivalents break down as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

87,044,881

 

 

 

121,183,979

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes Maturing within up to 90 Days

 

 

70,117,158

 

 

 

24,981,766

 

 

 

12,720,258

 

Receivables from Reverse Repo Transactions

 

 

2,057,558

 

 

 

14,254,469

 

 

 

-

 

Local Interbank Loans

 

 

938,000

 

 

 

1,380,486

 

 

 

1,588,832

 

Overnight Placements in Banks Abroad

 

 

5,300,681

 

 

 

426,682

 

 

 

2,266,254

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

3,859,629

 

 

 

3,578,916

 

 

 

4,040,608

 

Time Deposits

 

 

285,999

 

 

 

291,016

 

 

 

7,084

 

Government Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,830,938

 

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

 

225,868,453

 

 

 

131,958,216

 

 

 

143,637,953

 

The analysis of risk of "Cash and Cash Equivalents" is disclosed in Note 46. Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.

NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE DEBT SECURITIES AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS

The Group's fair value debt securities through Profit or Loss are detailed in Schedule A.

The credit quality of debt securities is disclosed in Note 46.

F-38


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 8. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FORWARD PURCHASE-SALE OF FOREIGN CURRENCY WITHOUT DELIVERY OF THE UNDERLYING ASSET

Mercado Abierto Electrónico (MAE) and Rosario Futures Exchange (ROFEX) have trading environments for the closing, recording and settlement of financial forward transactions carried out among its agents, being Banco Galicia one of them. The general settlement mode for these transactions is without delivery of the traded underlying asset. Settlement is carried out on a daily basis, in Pesos, for the difference, if any, between the closing price of the underlying asset and the closing price or value of the underlying asset corresponding to the previous day, the difference in price being charged to income.

The transactions are recorded in Off-Balance Sheet Items for the notional value traded. The accrued balances pending settlement are disclosed in the "Derivative Financial Instruments" line of Assets and/or Liabilities, as the case may be.

INTEREST RATE SWAPS

These transactions are conductedtraded within the environment created byscope of the MAE, and feature the settlement thereof is carried out on a daily or monthly basis,settlement in Pesos, forArgentine pesos of the differencevariation between the cash flows calculated usingat a variable rate (Badlar(Private Badlar for private banks for time depositsa period of 30 to 35 days) and the cash flows calculated usingat a fixed rate or vice versa on the notional value agreed, the price difference in price being charged to income.

CROSS CURRENCY SWAPS

These swap transactions in pesos and US Dollars relate to an exchange of a periodic flow of principal and interest. They are settled for the difference and it is a bilateral transaction with a counterparty abroad.

Both the interest rate swap and cross currency swaps are recorded in "Off-Balance Sheet Items" for the notional value traded. The accrued balances pending settlement are disclosed in the "Derivative Instruments" line of Assets and/or Liabilities, as the case may be.

WRITTEN AND PURCHASED CALL OPTIONS ON DOLLAR GOLD FUTURES WITHOUT DELIVERY OF THE UNDERLYING ASSET

These transactions have been conducted with the purpose of hedging the variable yield of the deposits received by Banco Galicia and set forth by the Argentine Central Bank.

The contract date, the term to exercise the option and the underlying asset are the same as those for the related deposit. Notional amounts have been computed so that the offset value of derivative financial instruments is similar to the variable yield of the investment. Changes in the value of the underlying asset at the time of the arrangement and at fiscal year-end, equivalent to the variable yield, have been recognized in income and are recorded under “Derivative Financial Instruments " line of Assets and/or Liabilities, as appropriate. Premiums received and/or paid have been accruedimpacting on a straight-line basis during the contract term.

WRITTEN AND PURCHASED DOLLAR FUTURES WITHOUT DELIVERY OF THE UNDERLYING ASSET

These transactions have been traded on ROFEX. Derivatives are accrued for at fair value. Premiums received are part of the fair value calculation.Income.

The amounts of transactions conducted as of the indicated datesDecember 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:

 

 

Underlying Asset

 

Type of Settlement

 

12.31.18(*)

 

 

12.31.17(*)

 

 

01.01.17(*)

 

Forward Purchase Sale of Foreign    Currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchases

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily difference

 

 

38,861,567

 

 

 

30,145,543

 

 

 

27,648,329

 

Sales

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily difference

 

 

32,277,374

 

 

 

28,042,761

 

 

 

-

 

Purchases by Customers

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily difference

 

 

3,673,954

 

 

 

583,221

 

 

 

396,281

 

Sales by Customers

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily difference

 

 

10,156,620

 

 

 

5,472,881

 

 

 

2,202,703

 

Interest Rate Swaps

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swaps

 

Others

 

Other

 

 

460,242

 

 

 

1,476

 

 

 

138,192

 

Cross Currency Swaps

 

Others

 

Other

 

 

1,561

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forward Purchases

 

Government

Securities

 

With delivery of the

underlying asset

 

 

1,965,824

 

 

 

1,672,194

 

 

 

3,032,245

 

Forward Sales

 

Government

Securities

 

With delivery of the underlying asset

 

 

2,061,516

 

 

 

15,678,531

 

 

 

-

 

Call Options Bought and Written on    Futures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Call Options Written on Dollar

 

Dollar

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

18,794

 

Call Options Purchase on Gold

 

Gold

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

275,484

 

Call Options Written on Gold

 

Gold

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

303,032

 

(*)

Notional values.

F-39


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

See

   Underlying Asset   Type of Settlement   12.31.20(*)   12.31.19(*) 

Currency Forward Transactions

        

Purchases

   Foreign currency    Daily difference    25,716,730    24,787,263 

Sales

   Foreign currency    Daily difference    14,328,423    17,225,667 

Customers´ Purchases

   Foreign currency    Daily difference    1,549,356    13,531,017 

Customers´ Sales

   Foreign currency    Daily difference    12,563,375    21,060,236 

Interest Rate Swaps

        

Swaps

   Others    Other    82,909    490,436 

Repurchase Transactions

        

Forward Sales

   Government Securities    

With delivery of the

underlying asset


 

   61,923,889    40,799,609 

(*)

Notional values.

For further details, refer to Schedule O for further details.O.

NOTE 9. REPO8. REPURCHASE TRANSACTIONS

As of the indicated dates, the Group maintains the following reporepurchase transactions:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Receivables from Reverse Repo Transactions of Government Securities

 

 

2,057,558

 

 

 

14,254,469

 

 

 

-

 

Accrued Interest Payable on Reverse Repo Transactions

 

 

10,518

 

 

 

31,867

 

 

 

-

 

Total Reverse Repo Transactions

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Payables for Repo Transactions of Government Securities

 

 

1,943,805

 

 

 

1,666,386

 

 

 

3,026,218

 

Accrued Interest Payable on Repo Transactions

 

 

4,754

 

 

 

3,673

 

 

 

4,255

 

Total Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

3,030,473

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Debtors for Reserve Repurchase Transactions of Government Securities

   60,842,046    40,837,234 

Interest Accrued Receivable for Reserve Repurchase Transactions

   153,597    107,699 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Transactions—Assets

   60,995,643    40,944,933 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The Group carries out repo transactions in which it sales a security with the related forward purchase thereof, thus substantially retaining all the risks and rewards associated with the instruments and recognizing them in "Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral" at year-end, as the provisions set out in point 3.4.2 (Derecognition of Assets) of IFRS 9 "Financial Instruments") are not met.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Reverse Repo Transactions recorded as Off-Balance Sheet Items

 

 

2,061,516

 

 

 

15,678,531

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions recorded in Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

1,965,824

 

 

 

1,672,194

 

 

 

3,032,245

 

The residualnotional values of the assets transferred under repoin repurchase transactions are disclosedpresented in Note 87 and Schedule O.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Reverse Repurchase Transactions recorded in Off-Balance Sheet Items

   61,923,889    40,799,609 

NOTE 10.9. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS

As of the indicated dates, the balances of "Other“Other Financial Assets" relateAssets” correspond to:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Debtors from Spot Sales of Foreign Currency Pending Settlement

 

 

1,947,184

 

 

 

3,550,645

 

 

 

5,918

 

Debtors from Spot Sales of Government Securities Pending Settlement

 

 

1,607,601

 

 

 

1,355,413

 

 

 

1,312,067

 

Sundry Debtors

 

 

810,757

 

 

 

441,191

 

 

 

447,246

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

4,264,431

 

 

 

4,516,228

 

 

 

4,544,877

 

Others

 

 

417,959

 

 

 

475,779

 

 

 

409,473

 

Total

 

 

9,047,932

 

 

 

10,339,256

 

 

 

6,719,581

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Receivables from Spot Sales of Foreign Currency Pending Settlement

   107,542    107,860 

Receivables from Spot Sales of Government Securities Pending Settlement

   1,239,870    243,816 

Sundry Debtors

   4,819,857    6,295,414 

Mutual Funds

   2,760,728    6,789,474 

Premiums from financial guarantee contracts

   484,028    875,839 

Others

   737,305    705,705 

Minus: Allowances

   (55,704   (157,908
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   10,093,626    14,860,200 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.51.

The credit rating quality analysis of Other Financial Assets as of December 31, 2020 was as follows:

 

NOTE 11. NET LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING
   Debtors
for Sale of
Foreign
Currency
   Debtors for
Cash sale of
Government
Securities to
be Settled
   Sundry
Debtors
  Mutual
Funds
   Premiums
from
financial
guarantee
contracts
   Other 

Not yet due

   107,542    1,239,870    4,814,695   2,760,728    484,028    737,305 

Impaired/Uncollectible

   —      —      5,162   —      —      —   

Allowances

   —      —      (55,704  —      —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   107,542    1,239,870    4,764,153   2,760,728    484,028    737,305 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

"Net Loans and Other Financing" break down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

11,777

 

 

 

8,532

 

 

 

26,457

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

533

 

 

 

3,604

 

 

 

5,318

 

Financial Institutions

 

 

7,942,382

 

 

 

6,938,664

 

 

 

5,106,758

 

Loans

 

 

7,942,382

 

 

 

6,938,664

 

 

 

5,106,758

 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

290,412,186

 

 

 

286,639,194

 

 

 

249,251,684

 

Loans

 

 

283,543,722

 

 

 

280,870,810

 

 

 

244,082,260

 

Overdrafts

 

 

14,430,578

 

 

 

16,680,960

 

 

 

18,501,897

 

Promissory Notes

 

 

36,020,263

 

 

 

52,455,181

 

 

 

46,613,651

 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

11,793,007

 

 

 

8,435,337

 

 

 

4,013,513

 

Collateralized Loans

 

 

997,958

 

 

 

1,591,432

 

 

 

1,249,027

 

Personal Loans

 

 

29,144,931

 

 

 

34,632,328

 

 

 

24,365,344

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

113,395,362

 

 

 

125,176,057

 

 

 

129,153,045

 

Other Loans

 

 

74,793,302

 

 

 

44,962,639

 

 

 

23,313,178

 

Accrued Interest, Adjustments and Quotation Differences Receivable

 

 

5,388,298

 

 

 

335,344

 

 

 

(703,302

)

Documented Interest

 

 

(2,419,977

)

 

 

(3,398,468

)

 

 

(2,424,093

)

Financial Leases

 

 

2,198,047

 

 

 

2,475,878

 

 

 

1,731,448

 

Other Financing

 

 

4,670,417

 

 

 

3,292,506

 

 

 

3,437,976

 

Less: Allowances

 

 

(15,656,810

)

 

 

(9,235,235

)

 

 

(8,686,796

)

Total

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

284,354,759

 

 

 

245,703,421

 

Classification of "Loans and Other Financing" by status and collateral in Schedule B.

The concentration of "Net Loans and Other Financing" is detailed in Schedule C.

The breakdown by term of "Net Loans and Other Financing" is detailed in Schedule D.

F-40


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

NOTE 10. LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING

The analysiscomposition of risk of “Loansthe Loans and Other Financing"Financing portfolio as of the indicated dates is detailed below:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Non-financial Public Sector

   334    9,297 

Argentine Central Bank

   13,195    30,460 

Financial Institutions

   14,700,600    14,697,129 

Loans

   14,700,600    14,697,129 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

   548,953,562    508,591,528 

Loans

   537,206,661    492,932,211 

Advances

   29,219,431    21,635,827 

Notes

   143,769,344    102,214,820 

Mortgage Loans

   16,486,335    20,492,746 

Pledge Loans

   11,586,593    4,368,295 

Personal Loans

   36,504,158    37,637,281 

Credit Card Loans

   241,793,015    203,475,676 

Other Loans

   36,431,415    84,111,147 

Accrued Interest, Adjustments and Quotation Differences Receivable

   23,649,868    20,755,403 

Documented Interest

   (2,233,498   (1,758,984

Financial Leases

   1,855,070    3,030,008 

Other Financing

   9,891,831    12,629,309 

Less: Allowances

   (37,233,572   (35,184,262
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   526,434,119    488,144,152 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Classification of Loans and Other Financing as per situation and guarantees received, is detailed in Schedule B.

The concentration of Loans and Other Financing is detailed in Schedule C.

The breakdown for term of Loans and Other Financing is detailed in Schedule D.

The risk analysis for Loans and Other Financing is presented in Note 45.

The information with related parties is disclosed in Note 46.

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.51.

NOTE 12.11. OTHER DEBT SECURITIES

The Group's "OtherGroup’s “Other Debt Securities"Securities” are detailed in Schedule A.

Changes in the "AllowancesThe risk analysis for Loan Losses" related to "OtherOther Debt Securities" are detailedSecurities is presented in Note 46.45.

NOTE 13.12. FINANCIAL ASSETS PLEDGED AS COLLATERAL

"

The Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral" valued according toCollateral valuated in accordance with their underlying asset for the fiscal years under analysis break down as follows:are detailed below:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Deposits as Collateral

 

 

3,663,499

 

 

 

2,344,791

 

 

 

2,778,032

 

Special Escrow Accounts at the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

5,188,169

 

 

 

5,329,804

 

 

 

4,285,315

 

Forward Purchases of Monetary Regulation Instruments

 

 

53,736

 

 

 

1,660,746

 

 

 

3,032,246

 

Others

 

 

1,912,088

 

 

 

11,447

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

9,346,788

 

 

 

10,095,593

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Deposits as Collateral

   6,899,443    5,479,776 

Special Accounts as Collateral—Argentine Central Bank

   11,444,550    10,245,260 

Trust as Collateral

   373,450    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   18,717,443    15,725,036 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

RestrictedThe restricted availability assets are detailed in Note 54.2.52.2.

NOTE 14.13. CURRENT INCOME TAX ASSETS

As of the indicated dates, the balances of "CurrentCurrent Income Tax Assets" relateAssets correspond to:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Tax Credits

 

 

94,918

 

 

 

134,740

 

 

 

216,396

 

Minimum Presumed Income Tax – Tax Credit Loss carryfoward

 

 

-

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

27,086

 

Less: Allowance for Impairment of Minimum Presumed Income Tax – Tax Credit

 

 

-

 

 

 

(142

)

 

 

(8,551

)

Total

 

 

94,918

 

 

 

134,740

 

 

 

234,931

 

Tax loss carryfoward expiration dates of Minimum Presumed Income Tax are as follows:

 

 

Tax Loss Carryfoward as of

 

 

 

Date of Generation

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

 

Expiration

Date

2006

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

273

 

 

2016

2007

 

 

-

 

 

 

77

 

 

 

588

 

 

2017

2008

 

 

-

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

669

 

 

2018

2009

 

 

-

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

1,074

 

 

2019

2010

 

 

-

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

3,002

 

 

2020

2011

 

 

-

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

2,686

 

 

2021

2012

 

 

-

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

3,158

 

 

2022

2013

 

 

-

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

3,466

 

 

2023

2014

 

 

-

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

4,249

 

 

2024

2015

 

 

-

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

6,718

 

 

2025

2016

 

 

-

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

1,203

 

 

2026

2017

 

 

-

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

-

 

 

2027

2018

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

2028

Total

 

 

-

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

27,086

 

 

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Tax Advances

   197,094    54,577 

Minimum Notional Income Tax – Tax Credit

   —  ��   564 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   197,094    55,141 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 15.14. INVESTMENTS IN EQUITY INSTRUMENTS

The Group's "InvestmentsGroup’s “Investments in Equity Instruments"Instruments” are detailed in Schedule A.

F-41Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.:


Under the framework of the divestment commitment assumed by Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. and its shareholders before the National Commission of Competence Defense, on February 1, 2019, the Group transferred 3,182,444 ordinary shares, representing 7.7007% capital stock of Prisma Medios de Pago SA in favor of AL ZENITH (Netherlands) B.V. (a related party of Advent International Global Private Equity).

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The total price of the transaction amounted to USD 104,469 thousand, composed of USD 63,073 thousand received on transaction date and USD 41,396 thousand will be paid during the next 5 years.

Additionally, the Group has a put option related to Banco Galicia’s right to sell its interest in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. to AL ZENITH (Netherlands) B.V., the exercise date being 34 months from the date of the transaction.

The Group´s remaining holding in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. has been classified as Investment in equity securities and measured at fair value through profit or loss.

NOTE 16.15. EQUITY INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES, ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES

16.1.Equity Investments in Subsidiaries

15.1

Equity Investments in Subsidiaries

The basic information regarding Grupo Financiero Galicia’s consolidated subsidiaries is detailed as follows:

 

 

 

Direct and Indirect

Shareholding

 

 

Equity Investment %

 

Company

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

 

668,549,353

 

 

 

795,973,974

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

 

8,300

 

 

 

7,700

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

77

 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

 

 

71,310

 

 

 

71,310

 

 

 

99.99

 

 

 

99.99

 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

 

 

7,727,271

 

 

 

7,727,271

 

 

 

99.99

 

 

 

99.99

 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

 

 

1,830,883

 

 

 

1,830,883

 

 

 

99.99

 

 

 

99.99

 

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Galicia Warrants S.A.

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Financial Trust Galtrust I

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Financial Trust Saturno Créditos

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Net Investment S.A. (in Liquidation)(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,000

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

Ondara S.A.

 

 

13,636,990

 

 

 

12,709,967

 

 

 

83.85

 

 

 

78.15

 

Sudamericana Holding S.A.

 

 

185,653

 

 

 

185,653

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

2,344

 

 

 

2,174

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

77

 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

 

894,552,668

 

 

 

829,886,212

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

77

 

(*)

The final distribution was paid out on January 9, 2018.

   Direct and Indirect
Shareholding
   Equity Investment
%
 

Company

  12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.20  12.31.19 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   668,549,353    668,549,353    100.00  100.00

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

   3,910,000    8,300    100.00  83.00

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

   20,000    20,000    100.00  100.00

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

   71,309    71,310    99.99  99.99

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

   7,727,271    7,727,271    100.00  100.00

Galicia Securities S.A.

   95,392,000    —      100.00  —   

Galicia Seguros S.A.

   1,830,883    1,830,883    100.00  100.00

Galicia Warrants S.A.

   1,000,000    1,000,000    100.00  100.00

IGAM LLC

   77,643,963    73,996,713    100.00  100.00

IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A.

   12,000    12,000    100.00  100.00

INVIU S.A.U.

   1,000,000    1,000,000    100.00  100.00

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   1,012,567,500    541,631,025    100.00  83.00

Ondara S.A.

   25,776,101    12,955,140    100.00  83.85

Sudamericana Holding S.A.

   185,653    185,653    100.00  100.00

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   2,824    2,344    100.00  83.00

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

   1,680,183,936    894,552,668    100.00  83.00

The following are the balances of subsidiaries, according to IFRS as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

  12.31.20 

Company

 

Assets

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

Shareholders'

Equity

 

 

Net Income(*)

 

  Assets   Liabilities   Shareholders’
Equity
   Net Income
(Loss)(*)
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

 

517,877,929

 

 

 

468,725,396

 

 

 

49,152,533

 

 

 

(1,789,529

)

   946,019,300    794,198,155    151,821,145    20,928,333 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

 

110,115

 

 

 

67,750

 

 

 

42,365

 

 

 

6,887

 

   1,484,287    1,263,843    220,444    (567,858

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

 

 

674,108

 

 

 

229,514

 

 

 

444,594

 

 

 

385,151

 

   1,382,069    468,718    913,351    1,121,556 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.(**)

 

 

26,475

 

 

 

13,382

 

 

 

13,093

 

 

 

25,056

 

   47,231    20,345    26,886    40,720 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.(**)

 

 

249,069

 

 

 

186,776

 

 

 

62,293

 

 

 

24,293

 

   507,046    396,155    110,891    3,657 

Galicia Securities S.A. (***)

   2,566,696    2,225,050    341,646    230,062 

Galicia Seguros S.A.(**)

 

 

2,703,486

 

 

 

1,654,652

 

 

 

1,048,834

 

 

 

544,122

 

   4,717,752    3,052,802    1,664,950    1,211,751 

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

 

258,936

 

 

 

39,877

 

 

 

219,059

 

 

 

66,678

 

Galicia Warrants S.A.

 

 

442,502

 

 

 

226,880

 

 

 

215,622

 

 

 

114

 

   702,846    171,752    531,094    (41,174

Financial Trust Saturno Créditos

 

 

17,055

 

 

 

1,184

 

 

 

15,871

 

 

 

(2,586

)

IGAM LLC

   506,066    161,584    344,482    156,518 

IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A.

   865    2,800    (1,935   (2,802

INVIU S.A.U.

   433,281    160,078    273,203    160,450 

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   833,786    54,920    778,866    (431,203

Ondara S.A.

 

 

22,511

 

 

 

22

 

 

 

22,489

 

 

 

1,636

 

   31,720    94    31,626    (13,533

Sudamericana Holding S.A.(**)

 

 

3,307,403

 

 

 

1,955,028

 

 

 

1,352,375

 

 

 

249,358

 

   5,916,613    3,329,257    2,587,356    1,318,261 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

51,194,581

 

 

 

41,875,082

 

 

 

9,319,499

 

 

 

2,068,688

 

   101,268    77,416    23,852    3,315,984 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

 

52,713,479

 

 

 

42,579,675

 

 

 

10,133,804

 

 

 

(2,139,323

)

   103,071,416    77,507,787    25,563,629    2,160,052 

 

(*)

Income attributable to the shareholder’sshareholders of the parent. Not including "Other“Other Comprehensive Income"Income”.

(**)

Net income for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2018.2020.

 

 

12.31.17

 

Company

 

Assets

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

Shareholders

Equity

 

 

Net Income(*)

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

 

480,374,665

 

 

 

416,511,409

 

 

 

63,863,256

 

 

 

5,664,659

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

 

85,518

 

 

 

33,136

 

 

 

52,382

 

 

 

7,657

 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

 

 

1,087,676

 

 

 

408,209

 

 

 

679,467

 

 

 

648,361

 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A. (**)

 

 

47,408

 

 

 

29,699

 

 

 

17,709

 

 

 

19,852

 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A. (**)

 

 

285,152

 

 

 

224,780

 

 

 

60,372

 

 

 

6,384

 

Galicia Seguros S.A. (**)

 

 

2,907,428

 

 

 

1,739,299

 

 

 

1,168,129

 

 

 

599,791

 

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

 

259,016

 

 

 

34,034

 

 

 

224,982

 

 

 

73,052

 

Galicia Warrants S.A.

 

 

3,624,332

 

 

 

2,020,122

 

 

 

1,604,210

 

 

 

385,104

 

Financial Trust Galtrust I

 

 

208,171

 

 

 

503

 

 

 

207,668

 

 

 

97,817

 

Financial Trust Saturno Créditos

 

 

34,508

 

 

 

2,086

 

 

 

32,422

 

 

 

3,944

 

Net Investment S.A. (in Liquidation)(***)

 

 

419

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

419

 

 

 

(55

)

Ondara S.A.

 

 

37,738

 

 

 

6,951

 

 

 

30,787

 

 

 

8,693

 

Sudamericana Holding S.A.(**)

 

 

432,842

 

 

 

217,333

 

 

 

215,509

 

 

 

7,886

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

53,189,426

 

 

 

41,598,049

 

 

 

11,591,377

 

 

 

3,643,368

 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

 

54,653,428

 

 

 

42,229,161

 

 

 

12,424,267

 

 

 

4,017,095

 

(***)

Income attributable to the shareholder’s of the parent. Not including "Other Comprehensive Income".

(**)

Net income for the twelve-month period endedbetween the purchase date and December 31, 2017.31,2020.

(***)

The final distribution was paid out on January 9, 2018.

F-42


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

   12.31.19 

Company

  Assets   Liabilities   Shareholders’
Equity
   Net Income
(Loss)(*)
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   839,110,959    708,010,986    131,099,973    30,336,364 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

   702,134    316,551    385,583    (299,779

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

   612,028    98,149    513,879    302,238 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A. (**)

   68,001    38,917    29,084    44,140 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A. (**)

   488,839    382,963    105,876    (27,432

Galicia Securities S.A.

   —      —      —      —   

Galicia Seguros S.A. (**)

   —      2,721,178    (2,721,178   795,761 

Galicia Warrants S.A.

   793,298    170,513    622,785    171,212 

IGAM LLC

   3,061,060    2,877,270    183,790    71,697 

IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A.

   1,119    —      1,119    (23

INVIU S.A.U.

   3,056,981    2,875,233    181,748    (19,591

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   1,195,023    354,860    840,163    (120,719

Ondara S.A.

   48,201    1,446    46,755    (7,226

Sudamericana Holding S.A. (**)

   6,064,430    3,356,339    2,708,091    862,867 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   86,914,652    65,532,267    21,382,385    1,843,861 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

   90,010,710    66,840,431    23,170,279    888,870 

(*)

Income attributable to the shareholders of the parent. Not including “Other Comprehensive Income”.

(**)

Net income for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2019.

Corporate Reorganization

On September 14, 2020, a Prior Spin-off-Merger Agreement was signed, describing the terms and conditions of the merger by acquisition, by Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. as the merging company, of the spin-off equity from Dusner S.A., Fedler S.A. and its shareholders, as spin-off companies, jointly holders of 17% of the capital stock of Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

The Bank's General Ordinarydocuments related to the Spin-off-Merger Agreement, were approved by the Boards of Directors of Dusner S.A., Fedler S.A. and Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. on September 14, 2020.

At the Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting heldof Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. carried out on April 24, 2018November 10, 2020, it was approved the amendmentaforementioned documentation, the exchange ratio and the capital increase in the amount of Ps. 47,927, through the issuance of 47,927,494 class B ordinary book-entry shares with a nominal value of Ps. 1 (figure expressed in Argentine pesos) and one vote per share, with the right to Article 1participate in the profits of the Bylaws, changingfiscal year beginning on September 1, 2020.

On December 15, 2020, the corporate nameFinal Spin-off-Merger Agreement was signed and registered as a public deed, in the terms of Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A. for Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. The Argentine Central Bank, through Resolution No. 200 issued by its BoardParagraph 4 of Directors on July 5, 2018, did not object to such change. On October 2, 2018, the Corporation Control Authority registered the change under Number 18709 of Book 91 of Stock Companies.

The General Ordinary Shareholders' Meeting of Net Investment S.A. held on May 16, 2017 resolved to unanimously approve the early dissolution and subsequent liquidationArt. 83 of the company, underCompanies Act, through which Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. incorporated the provisions set out in Section 94, subsectionspin-off equity of the aforementioned companies with effect from September 1, 2020.

Consequently, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. now has control of General Corporations Law, i.e.1,680,183,936 shares of Tarjetas Regionales S.A., bywhich represent 100% of the shareholders' decision. The financial statements ascapital stock and 100% of the votes.

As of December 31, 2017 are2020, the latest financial statements availableadministrative approval procedures for the spin-off of part of the equity of each of the spin-off companies were initiated, before Net Investmentthe Public Registry of Commerce, and for the merger by acquisition and capital increase of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.'s final liquidation., before the National Securities Commission.

16.2.InvestmentsOn March 16, 2021 the merger by acquisition and capital increase of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. was registered with the Public Registry of Commerce. (See Note 55).

Acquisition of an AlyC-type company

On May 5, 2020, the Group acquired 100% of the capital stock of Galicia Securities S.A. for a total price of $32,158 paid in Associatesfull at the acquisition date. Galicia Securities S.A. is authorized to act as a settlement and Joint Ventures

"Investmentscompensation agent and placement and distribution agent of mutual funds in AssociatesArgentine. The net identifiable assets and Joint Ventures" break down as followsgoodwill recognized as of the indicated dates:date of acquisition are $22,956 and $9,202, respectively. The goodwill is attributable to a broker dealer license and it will be deductible for tax purposes.

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

259,687

 

Nova Re Compañía Argentina de Reaseguros S.A. (**)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

27,115

 

Others

 

 

56

 

 

 

83

 

 

 

1,107

 

Allowances

 

 

(56

)

 

 

(83

)

 

 

(1,107

)

Total

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

286,802

 

15.2

Equity Investments in Associates

In this fiscal year, Banco Galicia, together with other financial entities, has set up Play Digital S.A. A company whose purpose is to develop and market a payment solution linked to the bank accounts of users of the financial system that will significantly improve their payment experience. The board of directors of said company is made up of key personnel of Banco Galicia, therefore, having significant influence, the investment is measured by the equity method.

 

Company

  Equity
Investment %
  Place of
Business
  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Play Digital S.A. (*)

   15.58 Autonomous
City of
Buenos
Aires -
Argentina
   89,142    —   

(*)

AsAfter the closing of December 31, 2017, itthese financial statements, Banco Galicia has accepted an offer for the sale of VN 31,145,090 shares to another financial entity. Consequently, the shareholding was classifiedreduced to "Non-current Assets Held for Sale"12.976%. (See Notes 23 and 55).

(**)

Equity investment sold in September 2017.

NOTE 17. LEASES

17.1.Financial Leases

The "Property, Plant and Equipment" account includes the following amounts in which the Group is lessee under the terms of financial lease contracts.

 

 

Real Estate

 

 

Furniture

and

Fixtures

 

 

Machines and

Equipment

 

 

Vehicles

 

 

Total

 

Cost

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,660

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,660

 

Accumulated Depreciation

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(14,660

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(14,660

)

Balance as of 12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

Real Estate

 

 

Furniture

and

Fixtures

 

 

Machines and

Equipment

 

 

Vehicles

 

 

Total

 

Cost

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,660

 

 

 

440

 

 

 

15,100

 

Accumulated Depreciation

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(14,660

)

 

 

(198

)

 

 

(14,858

)

Balance as of 12.31.17

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

242

 

 

 

242

 

 

 

Real Estate

 

 

Furniture

and

Fixtures

 

 

Machines and

Equipment

 

 

Vehicles

 

 

Total

 

Cost

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,660

 

 

 

1,576

 

 

 

16,236

 

Accumulated Depreciation

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(14,660

)

 

 

(811

)

 

 

(15,471

)

Balance as of 01.01.17

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

765

 

 

 

765

 

17.2.Operating Leases

The Group records contractual obligations derived from the lease of certain properties used as part of the distribution network. The term of these contracts ranges from one to five years and most of them are renewable upon their expiration at market values. The estimated future lease payments in connection with these properties are as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Less than One Year

 

 

906,405

 

 

 

788,950

 

 

 

672,834

 

Over One Year and up to Five Years

 

 

5,284,731

 

 

 

2,185,391

 

 

 

1,917,092

 

Over Five Years

 

 

6,191,137

 

 

 

1,079,291

 

 

 

430,597

 

Total

 

 

12,382,273

 

 

 

4,053,632

 

 

 

3,020,523

 

NOTE 18. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Changes in "Property, Plant and Equipment" are detailed in Schedule F.

The carrying amounts of "Property, Plant and Equipment" do not exceed their recoverable values.

F-43


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The movements of such investment are as follows:

Company

  12.31.19   Contributions   Profit Sharing in
income
(loss) for the Year
   12.31.20 

Play Digital S.A.

   —      214,195    (125,053   89,142 

The basic information regarding Grupo Financiero Galicia’s associates is detailed as follows:

   12.31.20 

Company

  Assets   Liabilities   Shareholders’
Equity
   Net Income
(Loss)
 

Play Digital S.A.

   882,481    85,374    797,107    (571,938

For more details see Schedule E.

NOTE 19. INTANGIBLE ASSETS16. LEASES

This Note provides information for leases where the Grupo is the lessee:

(i) Amounts recognized in the Statement of Financial Position:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Right-of-use asset (1)

   4,052,593    5,011,534 

Real estate

   4,052,593    5,011,534 

Lease Liabilities (2)

   4,363,406    5,129,987 

(1)

Recorded in the Property, Plant and Equipment item, for right of use of real property, see Note 17.

(2)

Recorded in the item Other Financial Liabilities, see Note 25.

Additions to the right-of-use assets during the financial year were Ps.629,385.

The maturity of lease liabilities is disclosed in Note 45.

(ii) Amounts recognized in the Statement of Income:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Charge for depreciation of right-of-use assets (1)(2)

   1,312,301    1,313,102 

Interest Expenses (3)

   398,850    511,138 

Expenses related to short-term leases (4)

   141,700    33,079 

Expenses related to low-value assets leases (4)

   167,148    102,714 

Sublease Income (5)

   9,790    2,146 

(1)

Depreciation for right of use of Real Property.

(2)

Recorded in the item Depreciation and Impairment of assets, see Note 39.

(3)

Recorded in the item Other Operating Expenses, Lease Interest, see Note 40.

(4)

Recorded in the item Administrative Expenses, see Note 38.

(5)

Recorded in the item Other Operating Income, see Note 34.

The evolution of right -of-use assets and lease liabilities during the years 2020 and 2019 and is as follows:

Right-of-use assets

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Balances at the beginning of the year

   5,011,534    6,073,274 

Additions

   629,385    251,362 

Cancellation of contracts

   (276,025   —   

Depreciation of the year

   (1,312,301   (1,313,102
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at the end of the year

   4,052,593    5,011,534 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Lease liabilities(1)

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Balances at the beginning of the year

   5,129,987    6,073,274 

New contracts

   629,385    251,362 

Cancellation of contracts

   (269,503   —   

Lease payments

   (1,333,090   (1,361,874

Leases financial cost

   398,850    511,138 

Translation differences and inflation adjustment

   (192,223   (343,913
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at the end of the year

   4,363,406    5,129,987 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Recorded in the item Other Financial Liabilities, see Note 25.

The total cash flows related to leases was Ps.1,333,090.

NOTE 17. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Changes in "Intangible Assets"“Property, Plant and Equipment” are detailed in Schedule G.F.

The carrying amounts of "Intangible Assets"“Property, Plant and Equipment” do not exceed their recoverable values.

NOTE 20. DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSETS/LIABILITIES

Changes in "Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities" during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are as follows:

Deferred Tax Assets

Item

 

12.31.17

 

 

Charge to

Income

 

 

Allowance

for

Impairment

 

 

Others

 

 

12.31.18

 

Valuation of Securities

 

 

4,901

 

 

 

(3,325

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,576

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,901

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,179

)

 

 

(278

)

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

927,737

 

 

 

595,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,523,401

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

(223,241

)

 

 

(455,616

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(21

)

 

 

(678,878

)

Intangible Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Tax Loss Carry-forwards

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,612

 

 

 

(3,764

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,848

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

40,131

 

 

 

(6,137

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

33,994

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

-

 

 

 

(3,980

)

 

 

1,876

 

 

 

2,104

 

 

 

-

 

Allowance for Impairment

 

 

4,609

 

 

 

20,401

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

25,010

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

912

 

 

 

(16,843

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(15,931

)

Provisions

 

 

17,201

 

 

 

92,545

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(55,234

)

 

 

54,512

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

4,146

 

 

 

12,974

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

558

 

 

 

17,678

 

Quotation Difference

 

 

5,548

 

 

 

1,236

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,784

 

Others

 

 

(19,374

)

 

 

22,895

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,262

)

 

 

1,259

 

Totals

 

 

762,570

 

 

 

269,327

 

 

 

(1,888

)

 

 

(57,034

)

 

 

972,975

 

Deferred Tax Liabilities

Item

 

12.31.17

 

 

Charge to

Income

 

 

Allowance

for

Impairment

 

 

Others

 

 

12.31.18

 

Valuation of Securities

 

 

16,718

 

 

 

(143,241

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(126,523

)

Other Financial Assets

 

 

(37,930

)

 

 

(13,364

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,179

 

 

 

(49,115

)

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

321,679

 

 

 

1,049,720

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,371,399

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

(2,784,001

)

 

 

(481,544

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

21

 

 

 

(3,265,524

)

Intangible Assets

 

 

258,221

 

 

 

(433,524

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(175,303

)

Tax Loss Carry-forwards

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

(154,315

)

 

 

(223,424

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(377,739

)

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

(380,838

)

 

 

383,774

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,104

)

 

 

832

 

Allowance for Impairment

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

(20,331

)

 

 

2,734

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(17,597

)

Provisions

 

 

200,091

 

 

 

131,926

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

55,234

 

 

 

387,251

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

494,380

 

 

 

(89,776

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(558

)

 

 

404,046

 

Others

 

 

(2,214

)

 

 

(55,421

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,262

 

 

 

(55,373

)

Totals

 

 

(2,088,540

)

 

 

127,860

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

57,034

 

 

 

(1,903,646

)

Deferred Tax Assets

Item

 

01.01.17

 

 

Charge to

Income

 

 

Allowance

for

Impairment

 

 

Others

 

 

12.31.17

 

Valuation of Securities

 

 

3,814

 

 

 

1,087

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,901

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

(58

)

 

 

58

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

1,190,776

 

 

 

(263,039

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

927,737

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

(230,188

)

 

 

83

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,864

 

 

 

(223,241

)

Intangible Assets

 

 

(92

)

 

 

92

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Tax Loss Carry-forwards

 

 

1,725

 

 

 

(1,725

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

3,995

 

 

 

36,136

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

40,131

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Allowance for Impairment

 

 

3,292

 

 

 

1,301

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,609

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

-

 

 

 

912

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

912

 

Provisions

 

 

80,260

 

 

 

(9,796

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(53,263

)

 

 

17,201

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

3,504

 

 

 

642

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,146

 

Quotation Difference

 

 

16,022

 

 

 

(10,474

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,548

 

Others

 

 

(37,790

)

 

 

18,416

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(19,374

)

Totals

 

 

1,035,260

 

 

 

(226,307

)

 

 

16

 

 

 

(46,399

)

 

 

762,570

 

F-44


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

NOTE 18. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Changes in “Intangible Assets” are detailed in Schedule G.

The carrying amounts of “Intangible Assets” do not exceed their recoverable values.

NOTE 19. DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSETS/LIABILITIES

Changes in “Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities” during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 are as follows:

Deferred Tax Assets

Item

  12.31.19   Charge to
Income
   Others   12.31.20 

Valuation of Securities

   51,229    (51,125   —      104 

Loans and Other Financing

   4,278,791    6,958,396    —      11,237,187 

Tax Loss Carryforwards

   66,615    246,174    —      312,789 

Other Non-financial Assets

   15,463    14,465    —      29,928 

Allowance for Impairment

   9,541    (9,541   —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

   —      1,861    —      1,861 

Subordinated Negotiable Obligations

   —      7,064    —      7,064 

Provisions

   2,365,351    (1,577,952   —      787,399 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   616,418    (208,028   —      408,390 

Inflation adjustment deferral

   7,914,417    3,704,300    —      11,618,717 

Others

   89,831    125,895    —      215,726 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Totals

   15,407,656    9,211,509    —      24,619,165 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets in subsidiaries with net liability position

   (11,586,278   (3,820,292   —      (15,406,570
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred tax assets

   3,821,378    5,391,217    —      9,212,595 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred Tax Liabilities

 

Item

 

01.01.17

 

 

Charge to

Income

 

 

Allowance

for

Impairment

 

 

Others

 

 

12.31.17

 

  12.31.19   Charge to
Income
   Others   12.31.20 

Valuation of Securities

 

 

(38,276

)

 

 

54,994

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

16,718

 

   (28,583   (1,275,634   —      (1,304,217

Other Financial Assets

 

 

(30,062

)

 

 

(7,503

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(365

)

 

 

(37,930

)

   (71,037   45,911    —      (25,126

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

387,020

 

 

 

(65,341

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

321,679

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

(3,415,959

)

 

 

632,760

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(802

)

 

 

(2,784,001

)

   (10,343,737   (985,021   —      (11,328,758

Intangible Assets

 

 

570,959

 

 

 

(312,738

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

258,221

 

   (995,392   (1,649,968   —      (2,645,360

Tax Loss Carry-forwards

 

 

272,828

 

 

 

(265,421

)

 

 

(7,716

)

 

 

309

 

 

 

-

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

5,018

 

 

 

(159,333

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(154,315

)

   (843,466   661,194    —      (182,272

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

-

 

 

 

(378,067

)

 

 

(2,771

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(380,838

)

   (2,102,102   2,102,102    —      —   

Allowance for Impairment

 

 

(276,698

)

 

 

54,977

 

 

 

221,721

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

(3,173

)

 

 

(17,158

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(20,331

)

Other Financial Liabilities

   (34,675   —      —      (34,675

Subordinated Negotiable Obligations

   (16,044   —      —      (16,044

Provisions

 

 

632,800

 

 

 

(484,267

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

51,558

 

 

 

200,091

 

   (148,504   148,504    —      —   

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

50,291

 

 

 

445,557

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,468

)

 

 

494,380

 

   (18,177   17,769    —      (408

Foreign Currency Exchange Differences

   (4,016   1,591    —      (2,425

Inflation adjustment deferral

   —      (3,816   —      (3,816

Others

 

 

1,655

 

 

 

(2,248

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,621

)

 

 

(2,214

)

   (1,099   696    —      (403
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Totals

 

 

(1,843,597

)

 

 

(503,788

)

 

 

211,234

 

 

 

47,611

 

 

 

(2,088,540

)

   (14,606,832   (936,672   —      (15,543,504
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Net deferred tax liabilities in subsidiaries with net asset position

   11,586,278    3,820,292    —      15,406,570 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

   (3,020,554   2,883,620    —      (136,934
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Deferred Tax Assets

 

Item

  12.31.18   Charge to
Income
   Others   12.31.19 

Valuation of Securities

   1,946    50,636    (1,353   51,229 

Loans and Other Financing

   6,083,246    (1,804,455   —      4,278,791 

Tax Loss Carryforwards

   8,060    58,555    —      66,615 

Other Non-financial Assets

   71,195    (55,732   —      15,463 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

   1,743    (1,743   —      —   

Allowance for Impairment

   52,378    (42,837   —      9,541 

Provisions

   925,174    1,440,177    —      2,365,351 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   886,431    (270,013   —      616,418 

Foreign Currency Exchange Differences

   10,987    (10,987   —      —   

Inflation adjustment deferral

   —      7,914,417    —      7,914,417 

Others

   47,949    41,882    —      89,831 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Totals

   8,089,109    7,319,900    (1,353   15,407,656 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets in subsidiaries with net liability position

   (6,051,423   (5,534,855   —      (11,586,278
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred tax assets

   2,037,686    1,785,045    (1,353   3,821,378 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Deferred Tax Liabilities

Item

  12.31.18   Charge to
Income
   Others   12.31.19 

Valuation of Securities

   (263,623   235,040    —      (28,583

Other Financial Assets

   (103,444   32,407    —      (71,037

Loans and Other Financing

   (20,712   20,712    —      —   

Property, Plant and Equipment

   (8,260,698   (2,083,039   —      (10,343,737

Intangible Assets

   (367,136   (628,256   —      (995,392

Other Non-financial Assets

   (791,093   (52,373   —      (843,466

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

   —      (2,102,102   —      (2,102,102

Other Financial Liabilities

   (33,364   (1,311   —      (34,675

Subordinated Negotiable Obligations

   (36,853   20,809    —      (16,044

Provisions

   —      (148,504   —      (148,504

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   —      (18,177   —      (18,177

Foreign Currency Exchange Differences

   —      (4,016   —      (4,016

Others

   (161,278   160,179    —      (1,099
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Totals

   (10,038,201   (4,568,631   —      (14,606,832
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liabilities in subsidiaries with net asset position

   6,051,423    5,534,855    —      11,586,278 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

   (3,986,778   966,224    —      (3,020,554
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

In addition, the expiration dates of tax loss carry-forwardscarryforwards are as follows:

 

Year of Generation

 

Amount

 

 

Year Due

 

Deferred Tax

Assets

 

2018

 

 

25,373

 

 

2023

 

 

7,612

 

The Group has determined an allowance for impairment as of December 31, 2018 amounting to $3,764, as it is not probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilize those temporary differences and losses as of the date of these financial statements.

Year of Generation

  Amount   Year
Due
   Deferred Tax
Assets
 

2018

   26,865    2023    8,060 

2019

   195,185    2024    58,555 

2020

   820,580    2025    246,174 
      

 

 

 
       312,789 
      

 

 

 

NOTE 21.20. ASSETS/LIABILITIES FOR INSURANCE CONTRACTS

Assets related to insurance contracts as of the indicated dates are detailed as follows:

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Premiums Receivable

 

 

964,214

 

 

 

1,006,658

 

 

 

962,651

 

Receivables from Reinsurers

 

 

5,361

 

 

 

5,128

 

 

 

6,143

 

Fees to collect

 

 

2,455

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,828

 

Others

 

 

10,472

 

 

 

9,917

 

 

 

7,101

 

Total

 

 

982,502

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

 

 

988,723

 

Assets from Insurance Contracts

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Premiums Receivable

   1,857,975    1,576,061 

Credits with Reinsurers

   1,996    873 

Fees Receivables

   7,770    5,056 

Others

   17,649    26,527 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   1,885,390    1,608,517 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities related to insurance contracts as of the indicated dates are detailed as follows:

 

Liabilities from Insurance Contracts

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Debts with Insured Persons

   535,743    813,836 

Debts with Reinsurers

   20,829    4,561 

Debts with Co-insurers

   1,525    1,999 

Debts with Producers

   371,664    411,691 

Technical Commitments

   1,114,124    1,112,838 

Others

   55,744    —   

Pending Claims in charge of Reinsures

   (38,653   (345,517
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   2,060,976    1,999,408 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Debts with Insured

 

 

373,600

 

 

 

416,318

 

 

 

420,249

 

Debts with Reinsurers

 

 

9,702

 

 

 

25,904

 

 

 

(1,535

)

Debts with Co-insurers

 

 

2,639

 

 

 

3,608

 

 

 

4,741

 

Debts with Insurance Brokers

 

 

185,930

 

 

 

191,681

 

 

 

195,257

 

Statutory Reserves

 

 

571,225

 

 

 

589,255

 

 

 

561,227

 

Unpaid Losses to Be Borne by Reinsurers (Offset Account)

 

 

(39,876

)

 

 

(31,119

)

 

 

(25,777

)

Total

 

 

1,103,220

 

 

 

1,195,647

 

 

 

1,154,162

 

Debts with Insured

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Property Insurance

 

 

105,517

 

 

 

93,082

 

 

 

66,389

 

Administrative Direct Insurance

 

 

60,118

 

 

 

48,569

 

 

 

37,146

 

Direct Insurance in Litigation

 

 

9,966

 

 

 

9,060

 

 

 

4,710

 

Direct Insurance in Mediation

 

 

426

 

 

 

741

 

 

 

702

 

Settled Losses to be Paid

 

 

1,609

 

 

 

2,438

 

 

 

2,463

 

Unpaid Losses for Active Reinsurance and Retrocession

 

 

1,038

 

 

 

793

 

 

 

-

 

Incurred But Not Reported Losses - IBNR

 

 

32,360

 

 

 

31,481

 

 

 

21,368

 

Life Insurance

 

 

268,074

 

 

 

322,997

 

 

 

353,615

 

Administrative Direct Insurance

 

 

243,850

 

 

 

294,959

 

 

 

308,463

 

Direct Insurance in Litigation

 

 

4,752

 

 

 

5,528

 

 

 

3,534

 

Direct Insurance in Mediation

 

 

668

 

 

 

1,389

 

 

 

1,094

 

Settled Losses to be Paid

 

 

1,424

 

 

 

3,673

 

 

 

4,907

 

Unpaid Losses for and Active Reinsurance and Retrocession

 

 

4,400

 

 

 

2,826

 

 

 

-

 

Incurred But Not Reported Losses - IBNR

 

 

12,714

 

 

 

14,229

 

 

 

35,125

 

Surrenders Payable

 

 

265

 

 

 

391

 

 

 

488

 

Payables for Premiums to be Refunded

 

 

1

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

4

 

Retirement Insurance

 

 

9

 

 

 

239

 

 

 

245

 

Past Due Annuities Payable

 

 

9

 

 

 

239

 

 

 

245

 

Total

 

 

373,600

 

 

 

416,318

 

 

 

420,249

 

F-45


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Debts with Reinsurers and Co-insurers

 

Current

Account

 

 

Reinstatement

Premiums

 

 

Minimum  Deposit

Premium to

Be Accrued

 

 

Deposits as

Collateral

 

 

Unpaid  Losses

to Be Borne

by  Reinsurers

 

 

Total

 

IBNR to Be Borne by Reinsurers

 

 

21,852

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(12,150

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(39,876

)

 

 

(30,174

)

Debts with Co-insurers

 

 

2,639

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,639

 

Total as of 12.31.18

 

 

24,491

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(12,150

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(39,876

)

 

 

(27,535

)

Total as of 12.31.17

 

 

45,064

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(15,552

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(31,119

)

 

 

(1,607

)

Debts with Insured Persons

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Property & Casualty Insurance

   245,028    539,816 

Direct Administrative Insurance

   135,738    436,307 

Direct Insurance in Lawsuits

   5,204    15,323 

Direct Insurance in Mediation

   1,957    2,184 

Settled Claims Payable

   5,802    7,635 

Pending Claims, Active Reinsurance and Retrocession

   3,348    2,868 

Claims Incurred but not Reported (IBNR)

   92,979    75,499 

Life Insurance

   290,715    273,773 

Direct Administrative Insurance

   223,359    239,264 

Direct Insurance in Lawsuits

   12,448    7,519 

Direct Insurance in Mediation

   7,988    8,901 

Settled Claims Payable

   26,487    568 

Pending Claims, Active Reinsurance and Retrocession

   11,949    9,394 

Claims Incurred but not Reported (IBNR)

   7,898    7,979 

Redemptions Payable

   586    148 

Creditors for Premiums to be Refunded

   —      —   

Retirement Insurance

   —      247 

Annuities Payable in Arrears

   —      11 

Others

   —      236 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   535,743    813,836 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Debts with Insurance Brokers

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Current Account - Insurance Brokers

 

 

45,225

 

 

 

47,263

 

 

 

87,939

 

Commissions on Premiums Receivable

 

 

113,238

 

 

 

114,482

 

 

 

62,016

 

Underwriting Expenses Payable

 

 

27,467

 

 

 

29,936

 

 

 

45,302

 

Total

 

 

185,930

 

 

 

191,681

 

 

 

195,257

 

Debt with Reinsurers and Coinsurance

  Current
Account
   Reinstatement
Premiums
   Minimum Deposit
Premium to
Be Accrued
  Deposits
as

Collateral
   Unpaid Losses
to Be Borne
by Reinsurers
  Total 

Debts with Reinsurers

   52,563    —      (31,734  —      (38,653  (17,824

IBNR in charge of Reinsurers

   —      —      —     —      —     —   

Debts with Co-insurers

   1,525    —      —     —      —     1,525 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total as of 12.31.20

   54,088    —      (31,734  —      (38,653  (16,299
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total as of 12.31.19

   30,624    —      (24,064  —      (345,517  (338,957
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Statutory Reserves

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Unearned Premiums and Similar

 

 

327,392

 

 

 

296,487

 

 

 

241,924

 

Premiums and Surcharges

 

 

316,672

 

 

 

301,076

 

 

 

293,729

 

Premiums on Passive Reinsurance

 

 

(14,516

)

 

 

(35,710

)

 

 

(52,067

)

Active Reinsurance

 

 

25,236

 

 

 

30,948

 

 

 

-

 

Insufficient Premiums

 

 

-

 

 

 

173

 

 

 

262

 

Mathematical Reserves

 

 

243,833

 

 

 

292,768

 

 

 

319,303

 

Mathematical Reserves - Individual Life Insurance

 

 

80,545

 

 

 

88,543

 

 

 

91,918

 

Mathematical Reserves - Individual Retirement Insurance

 

 

67,088

 

 

 

47,960

 

 

 

54,051

 

Mathematical Reserves of Life Annuities

 

 

95,179

 

 

 

118,224

 

 

 

133,611

 

Provision for Restoring the Mathematical Reserve

 

 

7

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

6

 

Fluctuation Funds

 

 

1,014

 

 

 

38,029

 

 

 

39,717

 

Total

 

 

571,225

 

 

 

589,255

 

 

 

561,227

 

Debts with Producers

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Checking Account—Producers

   61,232    110,950 

Fees for Premiums Receivable

   291,724    259,132 

Production Expenses Payable

   18,708    41,609 

Others

   —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   371,664    411,691 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Technical Commitments

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Ongoing and Similar Risk

   610,475    610,592 

Premiums and Surcharges

   567,071    591,720 

Premiums on Passive Reinsurance

   (13,979   (19,727

Active Reinsurance

   57,383    38,472 

Insufficient Premiums

   —      127 

Mathematical Reserves

   503,649    502,246 

Mathematical Reserves for Individual Life Insurance

   154,345    157,074 

Mathematical Reserves for Individual Retirement Insurance

   113,185    92,209 

Mathematical Reserves of Life Annuities

   153,435    183,800 

Provision for the Mathematical Reserve Recomposition

   14    38 

Fluctuation Funds

   82,670    69,125 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   1,114,124    1,112,838 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Insurance liabilities were recorded according to the liability adequacy test, using the current estimates of future cash flows derived from insurance contracts. The assumptions used are as follows:

 

Mortality Table

GAM 94

Investment (Discount) Rate

3.38%

Benchmark Rate

Projected benchmark rate based on a share of CER starting with 1.36% in the case of voluntary retirement and 1.63% in the case of life annuities.

Administrative Expenses

682 in the case of voluntary retirement and 620 in the case of life annuities

   

12.31.20

  

12.31.19

Mortality Table  GAM 94  GAM 94
Investment (Discount) Rate  Products in USD: 14.77% annually  2.74%
  Products in Ps.: 7.85% annually  
Life Insurance Reference Rate  75% of the projection of the BADLAR rate starting from 34.22% plus the correction according to Resolution 2020-321 of the Argentine Superintendency of Insurance.  Projection of Life Insurance Reference Rate based on CER proportion, starting from 1.19% for voluntary retirement, and 0.88% for Annuities.
Administrative Expenses  422.18 for voluntary retirement and 2640.45 for annuities  453 for voluntary retirement and 620 for annuities

NOTE 22.21. OTHER NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS

"

Other Non-financial Assets"Assets” break down as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Shareholders

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

50,431

 

Payments in Advance of Directors' and Syndics' Fees

 

 

2,071

 

 

 

5,054

 

 

 

19,527

 

Payments in Advance to Personnel

 

 

50,385

 

 

 

18,382

 

 

 

18,416

 

Tax Credits

 

 

115,558

 

 

 

61,460

 

 

 

251,330

 

Payments in Advance

 

 

448,545

 

 

 

449,312

 

 

 

398,684

 

Advances for Purchase of Assets

 

 

1,141,114

 

 

 

2,180,993

 

 

 

1,103,230

 

Investment properties (*)

 

 

290,894

 

 

 

296,418

 

 

 

302,453

 

Other Miscellaneous Assets Measured at Cost

 

 

696,996

 

 

 

588,468

 

 

 

681,033

 

Assets Acquired through Foreclosures

 

 

32,852

 

 

 

54,787

 

 

 

31,041

 

Others

 

 

46,354

 

 

 

83,256

 

 

 

163,523

 

Total

 

 

2,824,769

 

 

 

3,738,130

 

 

 

3,019,668

 

(*)

Changes in "Investment Properties" are detailed in Schedule F.

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.

F-46


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Payments on behalf of third parties

   446,038    380,239 

Advances of fee to Directors and Syndics

   10,049    6,213 

Advance to Personnel

   3,558    2,810 

Tax Credits

   2,208,858    655,859 

Payments made in Advance

   2,331,734    1,320,929 

Advances for Purchase of Assets

   487,578    4,032,303 

Investment properties (*)

   580,667    593,290 

Other Sundry Assets Measured at Cost

   1,227,359    1,397,084 

Assets Taken in Defense of Credits

   5,176    5,176 

Others

   333,410    389,085 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   7,634,427    8,782,988 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(*)

Changes in “Investment Properties” are detailed in Schedule F.

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 51.

NOTE 23.22. NON-CURRENT ASSETS HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

The Group has classified the following assets as "Assets“Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations"Operations”:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Equity Investments

 

 

414,778

 

 

 

10,855,802

 

 

 

10,914,825

 

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.

 

 

414,778

 

 

 

374,937

 

 

 

-

 

Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A.(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,425,762

 

 

 

10,859,722

 

Cobranzas y Servicios S.A.(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

55,103

 

 

 

55,103

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

188,947

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Trust Crecere III, IV, V, VI, VII and VIII

 

 

188,947

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

4,290

 

 

 

4,289

 

 

 

4,291

 

Real Estate

 

 

4,290

 

 

 

4,289

 

 

 

4,291

 

Total

 

 

608,015

 

 

 

10,860,091

 

 

 

10,919,116

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Property, Plant and Equipment

    

Real Estate

   29,328    53,106 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   29,328    53,106 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(*)

The amount relates to the balance of assets held for sale were booked under “Non-current Assets Held for Sale”. The Liabilities related to this assets were booked under and “Other Non-financial Liabilities”

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.: The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. held on August 31, 2017, decided to transfer all of the shares of the Company in one-year term. Therefore, according to IFRS 5 the Group considered the investment as a "Non-current Assets Held for Sale" and measured the investment at the lowest of cost or fair value less cost to sell. The carrying amounts of the investment were $414,778 and $374,937 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The change is due to the company's capital stock increases, which took place in April and December 2018 in order to adjust it to its corporate businesses.

The General Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on May 8, 2018 approved the distribution of cash dividends. According to the Bank’s equity interest, it was entitled to dividends in the amount of $490,393, which were recorded in the income statement.

On February 1, 2019, 51% of such company's equity interest was transferred. (See Note 55).

Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A.: On January 12, 2017, the Bank's Board of Directors accepted an offer to buy the equity investment in the subsidiaries Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A., made by Mr. Julio Alfredo Fraomeni and Galeno Capital S.A.U. By virtue of Resolution No. 414, the Argentine Central Bank authorized such transaction.

The sale of the shares in both companies was consummated on February 2, 2018, with the new holders having been registered in each of these companies’ books. The sale price was subject to the buyers' consent, who were entitled to raise objections for a term of up to 45 consecutive days to be counted as from January 29, 2018. On March 26, 2018, the sale of shares in Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. was completed, establishing a final price of $1,527,013 and $31,790, respectively. The Loss from the sale of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. amounted to $(278,645) and the sale of Cobranzas y Servicios S.A has thrown an income of $18,889. The income tax impact for discontinued operations is disclosed separately in the "Income Tax from Discontinued Activities" account, which amounts to $31,675 as of December 31, 2018.

The information below is related to the Group's discontinued operations (Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A.):NOTE 23. DEPOSITS

 

Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A.

12.31.2017

Assets

10,425,762

Cash and Due from Banks

754,856

Securities

30,911

Loans

9,058,863

Miscellaneous Receivables

383,937

Equity Investments

7,927

Bank Property, Plant and Equipment

73,093

Miscellaneous Assets

3,709

Intangible Assets

112,466

Liabilities(*)

8,620,104

Deposits

2,603,478

Debt Securities

2,304,169

Other Liabilities Resulting from Financial Brokerage

3,039,665

Miscellaneous Liabilities

594,386

Provisions

78,406

(*)

Recorded in "Other Non-financial Liabilities". See Note 31.

F-47


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Cobranzas y Servicios S.A.

12.31.2017

Assets

55,103

Cash and Due from Banks

545

Securities

23,707

Miscellaneous Receivables

30,851

Liabilities(*)

42,202

Miscellaneous Liabilities

42,202

(*)

Recorded in "Other Non-financial Liabilities". See Note 31.

Assets

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Equity Investments in Subsidiaries

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A.

 

 

1,805,658

 

 

 

2,239,617

 

Cobranzas y Servicios S.A.

 

 

12,901

 

 

 

12,902

 

Total Assets

 

 

1,818,559

 

 

 

2,252,519

 

NOTE 24. DEPOSITS

Deposits break down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

In Pesos

 

 

197,429,716

 

 

 

192,412,724

 

 

 

183,073,374

 

Checking Accounts

 

 

39,854,371

 

 

 

48,899,103

 

 

 

51,553,662

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

61,128,663

 

 

 

61,068,905

 

 

 

47,849,922

 

Time Deposits

 

 

89,204,808

 

 

 

78,139,750

 

 

 

79,111,568

 

Time Deposits  – UVA

 

 

1,984,548

 

 

 

889,541

 

 

 

153,275

 

Others

 

 

1,273,540

 

 

 

1,307,966

 

 

 

2,780,765

 

Interest and Adjustments

 

 

3,983,786

 

 

 

2,107,459

 

 

 

1,624,182

 

In Foreign Currency

 

 

162,667,559

 

 

 

103,954,632

 

 

 

94,004,188

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

137,762,699

 

 

 

87,181,645

 

 

 

50,026,752

 

Time Deposits

 

 

24,064,063

 

 

 

16,162,106

 

 

 

12,356,404

 

Others

 

 

792,809

 

 

 

587,628

 

 

 

31,605,693

 

Interest and Adjustments

 

 

47,988

 

 

 

23,253

 

 

 

15,339

 

Total

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

296,367,356

 

 

 

277,077,562

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

In Pesos

   510,134,336    341,083,760 

Checking Accounts

   105,026,914    91,984,479 

Savings Accounts

   182,972,227    80,995,302 

Time Deposits

   208,712,623    157,927,791 

Time Deposits – UVA

   5,565,347    1,021,392 

Others

   1,980,204    2,309,871 

Interest and Adjustments

   5,877,021    6,844,925 

In Foreign Currency

   166,261,399    194,949,936 

Checking Accounts

   —      —   

Savings Accounts

   134,011,633    160,463,701 

Time Deposits

   31,133,525    33,122,492 

Others

   1,023,311    1,277,254 

Interest and Adjustments

   92,930    86,489 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   676,395,735    536,033,696 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The concentration of deposits is detailed in Schedule H.

The breakdown of deposits by remaining term is detailed in Schedule I.

The breakdown of deposits by sector is detailed in Schedule P.

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.

51.

NOTE 25.24. LIABILITIES MEASURED AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS

"

Liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss"loss” are detailed in Schedules I and P. They include liabilities for transactions with third-party government securities.

NOTE 26.25. OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Payables for Purchases Pending Settlement

 

 

1,512,197

 

 

 

1,597,375

 

 

 

1,993,765

 

Collections and Other Transactions on Account of Third Parties

 

 

7,646,888

 

 

 

4,649,744

 

 

 

5,891,142

 

Liabilities due to Financing of Purchases

 

 

36,894,587

 

 

 

39,185,267

 

 

 

38,237,617

 

Payables for Foreign Currency Purchase Pending Settlement

 

 

14,409,983

 

 

 

7,455,274

 

 

 

9,124,786

 

Commissions Accrued Payable

 

 

344,570

 

 

 

295,660

 

 

 

205,413

 

Miscellaneous Subject to Minimum Cash Requirements

 

 

507,101

 

 

 

417,075

 

 

 

584,706

 

Miscellaneous not Subject to Minimum Cash Requirements

 

 

1,195,353

 

 

 

918,298

 

 

 

507,406

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

724,363

 

 

 

832,106

 

 

 

549,941

 

Total

 

 

63,235,042

 

 

 

55,350,799

 

 

 

57,094,776

 

F-48


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Creditors for Purchase to be Settled

   340,249    76,689 

Collections and Other Transactions on Behalf of Third Parties

   11,041,676    15,977,376 

Obligations for Purchase Financing

   74,952,107    65,393,841 

Creditors for Purchase of Foreign Currency to be Settled

   506,226    2,237,420 

Accrued Fees Payable

   608,453    691,386 

Sundry Items Subject to Minimum Cash

   1,249,817    881,007 

Sundry Items not Subject to Minimum Cash

   3,732,783    5,596,529 

Lease Liabilities

   4,363,406    5,129,987 

Other Financial Liabilities

   676,748    1,169,389 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   97,471,465    97,153,624 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 27.26. LOANS FROM THE ARGENTINE CENTRAL BANK AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

28,675

 

 

 

22,623

 

 

 

23,450

 

Correspondents

 

 

1,583,638

 

 

 

614,362

 

 

 

2,104,863

 

Loans from Local Financial Institutions

 

 

5,719,582

 

 

 

3,552,963

 

 

 

6,511,273

 

Loans from Foreign Financial Institutions

 

 

7,474,069

 

 

 

6,056,735

 

 

 

3,840,658

 

Loans from International Entities

 

 

4,640,064

 

 

 

1,371,619

 

 

 

236,901

 

Total

 

 

19,446,028

 

 

 

11,618,302

 

 

 

12,717,145

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Argentine Central Bank Financing

   21,368    30,562 

Correspondents

   1,927,341    509,031 

Financing from Local Financial Institutions

   7,036,375    7,621,082 

Financing from Foreign Financial Institutions

   —      14,253,902 

Financing from International Financial Institutions

   4,848,355    8,521,584 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   13,833,439    30,936,161 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The following table details the credit lines with local and international financial institutions and entities as of the indicated dates:

Financial Institutions and/or Entities

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Term(*)

 

Rate(*)

 

 

Maturity Date

 

Amount as of

12.31.18(**)

 

Local

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,748,257

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

1,838 days

 

50.88

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

2,844,547

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

1,792 days

 

4.36

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

115,799

 

Call Taken

 

12.28.18

 

$

 

5 days

 

55.94

 

 

01.02.19

 

 

804,056

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.28.18

 

$

 

5 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.19

 

 

27,681

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.18.18

 

US$

 

5 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.19

 

 

994

 

Other Lines(1)

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

364 days

 

45.89

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

1,955,180

 

International

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13,697,771

 

Correspondents

 

12.31.18

 

US$

 

2 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.19

 

 

1,583,638

 

IFC

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

945 days

 

5.78

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

4,591,008

 

Prefinancing

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

235 days

 

3.96

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

5,643,958

 

IDB

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

351 days

 

4.44

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

1,879,167

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,446,028

 

                                                                                                            

Financial Institutions and/or Agencies

  Placement Date   Currency   Term(*)   Rate(*)   Maturity   Amount as
of

12.31.20(**)
 

Local Institutions

             7,057,743 

BICE

   Sundry Dates    Ps.    1,655 days    30.7    Sundry Dates    1,330,193 

BICE

   Sundry Dates    USD    1,705 days    4.3    Sundry Dates    1,835,023 

Agreements with Banks(1)

   12.14.20    Ps.    365 days    40.8    12.14.21    3,661,158 

Call Taken

   12.30.20    Ps.    5 days    29    01.04.21    210,000 

Argentine Central Bank

   12.30.20    Ps.    5 days    —      04.01.21    21,368 

Other Lines(2)

   Sundry Dates    Ps.    11 days    48.1    11.01.21    1 

International Institutions

             6,775,696 

Correspondents

   12.30.20    USD    5 days    —      11.04.21    1,927,341 

IFC

   Sundry Dates    USD    1,552 days    3.2    Sundry Dates    4,848,355 
            

 

 

 

Total

             13,833,439 
            

 

 

 

(*)

Weighted average.

(**)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Relates to regional credit-card companies'Ecosistema NaranjaX companies’ credit lines.

Financial Institutions and/or Entities

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Term(*)

 

Rate(*)

 

 

Maturity Date

 

Amount as of

12.31.17(**)

 

Local

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,575,586

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

1,875 days

 

23.84

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

3,253,133

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

1,086 days

 

3.38

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

3,855

 

Call Taken

 

12.28.17

 

$

 

5 days

 

24.5

 

 

01.02.18

 

 

93,699

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.28.17

 

$

 

5 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.18

 

 

21,565

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.28.17

 

US$

 

5 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.18

 

 

1,058

 

Other Lines(1)

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

365 days

 

27.95

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

202,276

 

International

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8,042,716

 

Correspondents

 

12.29.17

 

US$

 

4 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.18

 

 

614,362

 

IFC

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

1,085 days

 

5.59

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

1,247,368

 

Prefinancing

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

208 days

 

2.89

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

5,701,293

 

Proparco

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

351 days

 

4.96

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

28,751

 

IDB

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

240 days

 

3.21

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

450,942

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11,618,302

 

(*)

(2)

Weighted average.Relates to subsidiaries’ credit lines.

                                                                                                            

Financial Institutions and/or Agencies

  Placement Date   Currency  Term(*)   Rate(*)   Maturity   Amount as
of

12.31.19(**)
 

Local Institutions

             7,651,644 

BICE

   Sundry Dates   Ps.   1,778 days    47    Sundry Dates    2,642,859 

BICE

   Sundry Dates   USD   1,762 days    5.8    Sundry Dates    1,208,875 

Call Taken

   12.30.19   Ps.   3 days    41.6    01.02.20    682,064 

Argentine Central Bank

   12.30.19   Ps.   3 days    —      02.01.20    30,562 

Other Lines(1)

   Sundry Dates   Ps.   364 days    53.9    Sundry Dates    3,087,284 

International Institutions

             23,284,517 

Correspondents

   12.31.19   USD   2 days    —      02.01.20    509,031 

IFC

   Sundry Dates   USD   1,355 days    4.74    Sundry dates    8,521,584 

Prefinancing(2)

   Sundry Dates   USD   167 days    6.03    Sundry dates    13,572,955 

IDB

   Sundry Dates   USD   361 days    5.73    Sundry dates    680,947 
            

 

 

 

Total

             30,936,161 
            

 

 

 

(*)

Weighted average.

(**)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Relates to Ecosistema NaranjaX companies’ credit lines.

(1)

Relates to regional credit-card companies' credit lines.

Financial Institutions and/or Entities

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Term(*)

 

Rate(*)

 

 

Maturity Date

 

Amount as of

01.01.17(**)

 

Local

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,578,602

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

1,648 days

 

23.67

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

2,174,110

 

BICE

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

1,170 days

 

4.5

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

7,400

 

Call Taken

 

12.30.16

 

$

 

3 days

 

25.38

 

 

01.02.17

 

 

304,021

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.30.16

 

$

 

3 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.17

 

 

21,180

 

Argentine Central Bank

 

12.30.16

 

US$

 

3 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.17

 

 

2,270

 

Other Lines(1)

 

Miscellaneous

 

$

 

490 days

 

28.44

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

4,025,742

 

Correspondents

 

12.30.16

 

$

 

3 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.17

 

 

43,879

 

International

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,138,543

 

Correspondents

 

12.30.16

 

US$

 

3 days

 

 

-

 

 

01.02.17

 

 

2,060,984

 

IFC

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

1,209 days

 

5.8

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

146,024

 

Prefinancing

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

267 days

 

2.57

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

3,840,658

 

Proparco

 

Miscellaneous

 

US$

 

210 days

 

4.96

 

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

90,877

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12,717,145

 

(*)

Weighted average.

F-49


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

(**)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Primarily relates to regional credit-card companies' credit lines.

NOTE 28.27. DEBT SECURITIES

The following is a breakdown of the Global Programs for the Issuance of Debt securities outstanding:

 

Company

Authorized


Amount(*)

Type of Debt Securities

Program
Term
Approval Date
by

Shareholders’
Meeting

Term of

Program

Date of

CNV Approval by

Shareholders

Meeting

Approval by the C.N.V.

Grupo Financiero Galicia

S.A.

US$

USD 100,000

Simple debt securities not

convertible into shares

5 years

03.09.09
confirmed on
08.02.12

Resolution No. 16113 dated

04.29.09 and extended through

by Resolution No. 17343 dated

05.08.14 and Provision No. DI-2019-63-APN-GE#CNV dated 08.06.19. Authorization of the

increase,Increase, Resolution No. 17064

17,064 dated 04.25.13

Banco de Galicia y

Buenos Aires S.A.U.

US$

USD 2,100,000

Simple debt securities, not

convertible into shares,

subordinated or not, to

be adjusted or not,

secured or unsecured.

5 years

04.28.05, 04.14.10, 04.29.15 and 11.09.16

04.28.05,
04.14.10,
04.29.15,
11.09.16 and
04.28.20

Resolution No. 15228 dated

11.04.05 and extended through

Resolution No. 16454 dated

11.11.10 and Resolution No.

17883 dated 11.20.15.11.20.15 and Resolution No. DI-2020-53-APN-GE#CNV dated 11.24.20. Increase

of the amount approved by

Resolutions Nos.No. 17883 dated

11.20.15, No. 18081 dated

06.10.16, No. 18480 dated

01.26.17 and No. 19520 dated

05.17.18

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

US$

650,000

USD 2,100,000

Simple debt securities not

convertible into shares

5 years

-

03.08.12

04.25.19

Frequent Issuer Registration No. 11, granted by Resolution No. 16822RESCFC-2019-2055-APN-DIR#CNV, dated 05.23.12 and extended through Resolution No. 17676 dated 05.21.15.

11/13/19 of CNV´s Board of Directors

Tarjetas CuyanasTarjeta Naranja S.A.

US$

250,000

USD 1.000.000

Simple debt securities, not

convertible into shares

5 years03.08.12Resolution No. 15220 dated 07.14.05 and extended through Resolution No. 17676 dated 05.21.15 and No. DI2020-20-APNGE#CNV dated 03.18.20. Increase of the amount approved by Resolutions No. 15.361 dated 03.23.06, 15.785 dated 11.16.07, 16.571 dated 05.24.11, 16.822 dated 05.23.12 and 19.508 dated 05.10.18

Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

USD 250,000

Simple debt securities, not

convertible into shares

5 years

03.30.10
confirmed on
04.06.10 and
02.15.13

Resolution No. 16328 dated 05.18.10 Authorization05.18.10. Increase of the increase,amount approved by Resolution No. 17072 dated 05.02.13

(*)

Or its equivalent in any other currency.

(*) Or its equivalent in any other currency.

F-50


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company has the following Unsubordinated Debt securities outstanding issued under the Global Programs detailed in the table above as of December 31, 2018,2020, net of repurchases of Own Debt:

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Class

ON.

 

Face Value

 

 

Type(**)

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized  by

the C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount(*) as

of 12.31.18

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

02.17.17

 

$

 

Class III

 

US$150,537(1)

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(1)(3)

 

02.06.17

 

 

2,471,648

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

05.18.17

 

$

 

IV

 

$

2,000,000

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(2)(4)

 

05.08.17

 

 

2,126,523

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

04.26.18

 

$

 

V Series I

 

$

4,209,250

 

 

Simple

 

24 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(5)

 

04.18.18

 

 

4,898,450

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

04.26.18

 

$

 

V Series II

 

$

2,032,833

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(6)

 

04.18.18

 

 

2,174,984

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.13.16

 

$

 

XXXIII Series II

 

$

366,908

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

04.13.19

 

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar +5.40%

 

03.28.16

 

 

412,803

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

06.29.16

 

$

 

XXXIV Series II

 

$

475,397

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

06.29.20

 

 

Minimum 32% Rate/Badlar +4.67%

 

06.21.16

 

 

541,106

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

09.27.16

 

$

 

XXXV Series II

 

$

774,389

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

09.27.20

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar +3.99%

 

09.15.16

 

 

728,000

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.07.16

 

$

 

XXXVI Series II

 

$

636,409

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

12.07.19

 

 

Minimum 25.25% Rate/Badlar + 4%

 

11.23.16

 

 

648,695

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.11.17

 

$

 

XXXVII

 

$

3,845,700

 

 

Simple

 

1,826 days

 

04.11.22

 

 

Minimum 15% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%

 

03.30.17

 

 

4,083,446

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

11.13.17

 

$

 

XXXVIII

 

$

503,333

 

 

Simple

 

546 days

 

05.13.19

 

 

Minimum 29.05% Rate/MR20 + 4%

 

11.07.17

 

 

538,056

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

02.14.18

 

$

 

XXXIX

 

$

754,538

 

 

Simple

 

546 days

 

09.14.19

 

 

Minimum 26.75% Rate/MR 20 +3.4%

 

02.02.18

 

 

803,823

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.10.18

 

$

 

XL Series I

 

$

597,500

 

 

Simple

 

548 days

 

10.10.19

 

 

25.98% Fixed Rate

 

03.27.18

 

 

708,732

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.10.18

 

$

 

XL Series II

 

$

1,402,500

 

 

Simple

 

914 days

 

10.10.20

 

 

Minimum 27% Rate/Badlar + 3.69%

 

03.27.18

 

 

1,547,760

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

11.15.18

 

$

 

XLI Series I

 

$

854,102

 

 

Simple

 

365 days

 

11.15.19

 

 

54% Fixed Rate

 

-

 

 

905,479

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

11.15.18

 

$

 

XLI Series II

 

$

343,555

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

05.15.20

 

 

Badlar + 10%

 

-

 

 

346,775

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.17.18

 

$

 

XLII

 

$

1,266,303

 

 

Simple

 

287 days

 

09.30.19

 

 

58% Fixed Rate

 

-

 

 

1,234,147

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

05.05.16

 

$

 

XXIV Series II

 

$

234,309

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

05.05.19

 

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar + 4.98%

 

04.22.16

 

 

172,255

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

07.26.16

 

$

 

XXV

 

$

400,000

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

07.26.20

 

 

Minimum 30% Rate/Badlar + 3.94%

 

07.13.16

 

 

430,504

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

10.24.16

 

$

 

XXVI Series II

 

$

350,237

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

10.24.20

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar + 4.00%

 

10.14.16

 

 

358,563

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

02.10.17

 

$

 

XXVII Series II

 

$

500,000

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

02.10.20

 

 

Minimum 23.5% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%

 

02.02.17

 

 

500,457

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

06.09.17

 

$

 

XXVIII Series I

 

$

128,175

 

 

Simple

 

730 days

 

06.09.19

 

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.05%

 

05.29.17

 

 

126,755

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

06.09.17

 

$

 

XXVIII Series II

 

$

371,825

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

06.09.21

 

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.70%

 

05.29.17

 

 

374,000

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26,132,961

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

(**) Not convertible into shares.

(***) Negotiable Obligations merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

(1)  As specified in the terms and conditions of the issuance, they were converted to $2,360,360 Investor assumes the exchange rate risk since the service of interest and principal is calculated on the basis of the principal amount in Pesos converted into US Dollars on each payment date.

(2) The net proceeds from this issuance of negotiable obligations was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Negotiable Obligations and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

(3) Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.69%, which will be payable quarterly as from May 17, 2017.

F-51


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

(4) Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.98%, which will be payable quarterly as from August 18, 2017.

Company

  Placement
Date
   Currency   Class
  Face Value   Type(**)   Term   Maturity
Date
   Rate  Issuance
Authorized by
the CNV
   Book
Value(*) as

of 12.31.20
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   04.26.18    Ps.    
V Series
II
 
 
  2,032,833    Simple    36 Months    04.26.21    Badlar + 3.50%   04.18.18    1,732,315 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   11.20.20    Ps.    VIII (1)   1,589,722    Simple    9 Months    08.20.21    
Badlar +
2.25%
 
 
  04.20.20    1,255,566 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   04.11.17    Ps.    XXXVII   3,845,700    Simple    
1,826
days
 
 
   04.11.22    


Minimum
15% Rate/
Badlar +
3.50%
 

 
 
  03.30.17    2,644,989 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   07.08.20    Ps.    XLIV   3,574,897    Simple    549 days    01.08.22    Badlar + 4%   06.30.20    3,609,011 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   12.18.20    Ps.    XLV   3,057,000    Simple    365 days    12.18.21    Badlar + 5%   12.14.20    2,641,113 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

   06.09.17    Ps.    
XXVIII
Series II
 
 
  371,825    Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   06.09.21    


Minimum
25% Rate/
Badlar +
3.70%
 

 
 
  05.29.17    362,247 
                  

 

 

 

Total

                   12,245,241 
                  

 

 

 

(5) Annual nominal fixed 25.98% rate; principal and interest will be settled in full upon maturity.

(6) Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 3.5%, which will be payable quarterly as from July 26, 2018. Principal in respect of this Series will be repaid upon maturity.
(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(**)

Not convertible into shares.

(***)

Negotiable Obligations merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

(1)

Issued under the Frequent Issuer Regime.

On June 21, 2018, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. issued the “Green Bond” which was entirely acquired by the International Finance Corporation. The Green Bond is a 7-year facility, with interest payable every six months. The Green Bond has a 36-month grace period in respect of the repayment of principal, followed by payments in 9 installments due every six months. As of December 31, 2018,2020, the carrying amount of the Green Bond totals $3,850,692.

Under the Global Program for the IssuancePs.4,828,657, and it amounted to Ps.8,399,358 as of Debt Securities outstanding, after year-end, Banco Galicia issued Class VI for a face value of US$82,713 at a fixed 4.8% rate, with a 7-months maturity after issuance.

December 31, 2019.

The Company has the following Unsubordinated Debt Securities outstanding issued under the Global Programs detailed in the table above as of December 31, 2017,2019 , net of repurchases of Own Debt:

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Class

ON.

 

Face Value

 

 

Type(**)

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized  by

the C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount(*) as

of 12.31.17

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

02.17.17

 

$

 

III

 

US$150,537(1)

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(1)(3)

 

02.06.17

 

 

3,589,743

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

05.18.17

 

$

 

IV

 

$

2,000,000

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

 

-

 

 

(2)(4)

 

05.08.17

 

 

3,037,480

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.13.16

 

$

 

XXXIII Series II

 

$

366,908

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

04.13.19

 

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar +5.40%

 

03.28.16

 

 

553,033

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

06.29.16

 

$

 

XXXIV Series II

 

$

475,397

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

06.29.20

 

 

Minimum 32% Rate/Badlar +4.67%

 

06.21.16

 

 

697,050

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

09.27.16

 

$

 

XXXV Series I

 

$

225,611

 

 

Simple

 

546 days

 

03.27.18

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar +2.99%

 

09.15.16

 

 

335,414

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

09.27.16

 

$

 

XXXV Series II

 

$

774,389

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

09.27.20

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar +3.99%

 

09.15.16

 

 

1,117,422

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.07.16

 

$

 

XXXVI Series I

 

$

210,571

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

06.07.18

 

 

Minimum 25.25% Rate/Badlar + 3.25%

 

11.23.16

 

 

313,977

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.07.16

 

$

 

XXXVI Series II

 

$

636,409

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

12.07.19

 

 

Minimum 25.25% Rate/Badlar + 4%

 

11.23.16

 

 

922,082

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.11.17

 

$

 

XXXVII

 

$

3,845,700

 

 

Simple

 

1,826 days

 

04.11.22

 

 

Minimum 15% Rate/Badlar + 3.50%

 

03.30.17

 

 

5,940,224

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

11.13.17

 

$

 

XXXVIII

 

$

503,333

 

 

Simple

 

546 days

 

05.13.19

 

 

Minimum 29.05% Rate/MR20 + 4%

 

11.07.17

 

 

762,789

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

05.05.16

 

$

 

XXIV Series II

 

$

234,309

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

05.05.19

 

 

Minimum 37% Rate/Badlar + 4.98%

 

04.22.16

 

 

305,617

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

07.26.16

 

$

 

XXV

 

$

400,000

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

07.26.20

 

 

Minimum 30% Rate/Badlar + 3.94%

 

07.13.16

 

 

619,400

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

10.24.16

 

$

 

XXVI Series I

 

$

149,763

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

04.24.18

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar + 2.75%

 

10.14.16

 

 

231,713

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

10.24.16

 

$

 

XXVI Series II

 

$

350,237

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

10.24.20

 

 

Minimum 26% Rate/Badlar + 4%

 

10.14.16

 

 

448,220

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

02.10.17

 

$

 

XXVII Series II

 

$

500,000

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

02.10.20

 

 

Minimum 23.5% Rate/Badlar + 3.5%

 

02.02.17

 

 

761,711

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

06.09.17

 

$

 

XXVIII Series I

 

$

128,175

 

 

Simple

 

730 days

 

06.09.19

 

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.05%

 

05.29.17

 

 

192,243

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

06.09.17

 

$

 

XXVIII Series II

 

$

371,825

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

06.09.21

 

 

Minimum 25% Rate/Badlar + 3.7%

 

05.29.17

 

 

451,047

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,279,165

 

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

Company

  Placement
Date
   Currency  Class
  Face Value  Type(**)   Term   Maturity
Date
   Rate  Issuance
Authorized by
the CNV
   Book
Value(*) as

of 12.31.19
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   02.17.17   Ps.   III   
USD150,537
 
(1)
 
  Simple    36 Months    02.17.20    
Badlar +
2.69%
 
 
  02.06.17    1,443,765 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   05.18.17   Ps.   IV   2,000,000   Simple    36 Months    05.18.20    
Badlar +
2.98%
 
 
  05.08.17    2,357,013 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   04.26.18   Ps.   
V Series
I
 
 
  4,209,250   Simple    24 Months    04.26.20    

Fixed
Rate
25.98%
 
 
 
  04.18.18    5,265,353 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   04.26.18   Ps.   
V Series
II
 
 
  2,032,833   Simple    36 Months    04.26.21    
Badlar +
3.50%
 
 
  04.18.18    2,454,067 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   11.25.19   Ps.   VII (2)   4,182,280   Simple    6 Months    05.25.20    
Badlar +
4%
 
 
  11.13.19    5,815,305 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   06.29.16   Ps.   
XXXIV
Series II
 
 
  475,397   Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   06.29.20    



Minimum
32%
Rate/
Badlar +
4.67%
 
 

 
 
  06.21.16    538,916 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   09.27.16   Ps.   
XXXV
Series II
 
 
  774,389   Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   09.27.20    



Minimum
26%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.99%
 
 

 
 
  09.15.16    891,958 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   04.11.17   Ps.   XXXVII   3,845,700   Simple    
1,826
days
 
 
   04.11.22    



Minimum
15%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.50%
 
 

 
 
  03.30.17    5,911,129 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   04.10.18   Ps.   
XL
Series II
 
 
  1,402,500   Simple    914 days    10.10.20    



Minimum
27%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.69%
 
 

 
 
  03.27.18    1,992,957 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   11.15.18   Ps.   
XLI
Series II
 
 
  343,555   Simple    547 days    05.15.20    
Badlar +
10%
 
 
  11.07.18    478,609 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   02.19.19   Ps.   XLIII   1,583,895   Simple    547 days    08.18.20    
Badlar +
7%
 
 
  02.07.19    2,018,633 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

   07.26.16   Ps.   XXV   400,000   Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   07.26.20    



Minimum
30%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.94%
 
 

 
 
  07.13.16    577,248 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

   10.24.16   Ps.   
XXVI
Series II
 
 
  350,237   Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   10.24.20    



Minimum
26%
Rate/
Badlar +
4%
 
 

 
 
  10.14.16    507,796 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

   02.10.17   Ps.   
XXVII
Series II
 
 
  500,000   Simple    
1,095
days
 
 
   02.10.20    



Minimum
23.5%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.50%
 
 

 
 
  02.02.17    647,663 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

   06.09.17   Ps.   
XXVIII
Series II
 
 
  371,825   Simple    
1,461
days
 
 
   06.09.21    



Minimum
25%
Rate/
Badlar +
3.70%
 
 

 
 
  05.29.17    508,896 
                 

 

 

 

Total

                  31,409,308 
                 

 

 

 

F-52


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(**) Not convertible into shares.

(***) Negotiable Obligations merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

(1) As specified in the terms and conditions of the issuance, they were converted to $2,360,360. Investor assumes the exchange rate risk since the service of interest and principal is calculated on the basis of the principal amount in Pesos converted into US Dollars on each payment date.

(2) The net proceeds from this issuance of negotiable obligations was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Negotiable Obligations and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

(3) Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.69%, which will be payable quarterly as from May 17, 2017.

(4) Variable rate equal to the simple arithmetic average of private Badlar, plus 2.98%, which will be payable quarterly as from August 18, 2017.

The Company has the following Unsubordinated Debt securities outstanding issued under the Global Programs detailed in the table above as of January 1, 2017, net of repurchases of Own Debt securities:

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Class

ON.

 

Face Value

 

 

Type(**)

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized  by

the C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount(*) as

of 01.01.17

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

 

01.30.14

 

$

 

V Series II

 

$

78,200

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

01.31.17

 

Variable Badlar +

5.25%

 

04.25.13

 

 

150,085

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

 

10.23.14

 

$

 

VI Series II

 

$

109,845

 

 

Simple

 

36 Months

 

10.23.17

 

Variable Badlar

+4.25%

 

10.03.14

 

 

209,826

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

 

07.27.15

 

$

 

VII

 

$

160,000

 

 

Simple

 

24 Months

 

07.27.17

 

(1)

 

07.16.15

 

 

298,906

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

05.04.11

 

US$

 

-

 

US$ 300,000

 

 

Simple

 

84 Months

 

-

 

(2)(3)

 

04.14.11

 

 

8,666,274

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

01.28.11

 

US$

 

XII

 

US$ 200,000

 

 

Simple

 

2,192 days

 

01.28.17

 

Annual Nominal

Fixed at 9%

 

01.14.11

 

 

2,024,736

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

02.26.14

 

$

 

XXIV Series II

 

$

33,500

 

 

Simple

 

1,096 days

 

02.26.17

 

Variable Badlar +

5%

 

02.14.14

 

 

63,583

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

01.22.15

 

$

 

XXVIII Series II

 

$

129,000

 

 

Simple

 

731 days

 

01.22.17

 

Variable Badlar +

4.5%

 

01.09.15

 

 

48,759

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.27.15

 

$

 

XXIX

 

$

334,030

 

 

Simple

 

731 days

 

04.27.17

 

27.75% Mixed

Rate/ Badlar + 4.5%

 

04.16.15

 

 

320,917

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

06.29.15

 

$

 

XXX

 

$

400,000

 

 

Simple

 

731 days

 

06.29.17

 

27.75% Mixed

Rate/ Badlar + 4.5%

 

06.18.15

 

 

620,374

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

10.19.15

 

$

 

XXXI

 

$

370,851

 

 

Simple

 

548 days

 

04.19.17

 

27% Mixed

Rate/Badlar + 4.5%

 

10.07.15

 

 

348,211

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

01.20.16

 

$

 

XXXII

 

$

260,811

 

 

Simple

 

639 days

 

10.20.17

 

Variable Badlar

+4.5%

 

12.15.15

 

 

293,380

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.13.16

 

$

 

XXXIII Series I

 

$

133,092

 

 

Simple

 

548 days

 

10.13.17

 

Minimum 37%

Rate/Badlar +4.5%

 

03.28.16

 

 

231,198

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

04.13.16

 

$

 

XXXIII Series II

 

$

366,908

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

04.13.19

 

Minimum 37%

Rate/Badlar +5.4%

 

03.28.16

 

 

704,916

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

06.29.16

 

$

 

XXXIV Series I

 

$

124,603

 

 

Simple

 

548 days

 

12.29.17

 

Minimum 32%

Rate/Badlar

+3.38%

 

06.21.16

 

 

192,226

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

06.29.16

 

$

 

XXXIV Series II

 

$

475,397

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

06.29.20

 

Minimum 32%

Rate/Badlar

+4.67%

 

06.21.16

 

 

859,445

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

09.27.16

 

$

 

XXXV Series I

 

$

225,611

 

 

Simple

 

546 days

 

03.27.18

 

Minimum 26%

Rate/Badlar

+2.99%

 

09.15.16

 

 

413,913

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

09.27.16

 

$

 

XXXV Series II

 

$

774,389

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

09.27.20

 

Minimum 26%

Rate/Badlar

+3.99%

 

09.15.16

 

 

1,385,944

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.07.16

 

$

 

XXXVI Series I

 

$

210,571

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

06.07.18

 

Minimum 25.25%

Rate/Badlar

+3.25%

 

11.23.16

 

 

360,637

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

12.07.16

 

$

 

XXXVI Series II

 

$

636,409

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

12.07.19

 

Minimum 25.25%

Rate/Badlar

+4%

 

11.23.16

 

 

1,023,720

 

Carry-foward

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18,217,050

 

F-53


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

Class

ON.

 

Face Value

 

 

Type(**)

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized  by

the C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount(*) as

of 01.01.2017

 

Carry-back

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18,217,050

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

02.20.15

 

$

 

XIX Series II

 

$

75,555

 

 

Simple

 

731 days

 

02.20.17

 

Variable Badlar + 4.95%

 

02.06.15

 

 

19,218

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

08.12.15

 

$

 

XXI

 

$

232,000

 

 

Simple

 

550 days

 

02.12.17

 

Variable Badlar

+4.5%

 

07.29.15

 

 

381,218

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

11.13.15

 

$

 

XXII

 

$

300,000

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

05.13.17

 

Variable Badlar + 4.25%

 

11.03.15

 

 

570,817

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

03.16.16

 

$

 

XXIII

 

$

242,000

 

 

Simple

 

549 days

 

09.16.17

 

Minimum 35.25%

Rate/Badlar

+4.99%

 

03.07.16

 

 

302,381

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

05.05.16

 

$

 

XXIV Series I

 

$

65,691

 

 

Simple

 

549 days

 

11.05.17

 

Minimum 37%

Rate/Badlar

+4.08%

 

04.22.16

 

 

125,645

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

05.05.16

 

$

 

XXIV Series II

 

$

234,309

 

 

Simple

 

1,095 days

 

05.05.19

 

Minimum 37%

Rate/Badlar

+ 4.98%

 

04.22.16

 

 

354,070

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

07.26.16

 

$

 

XXV

 

$

400,000

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

07.26.20

 

Minimum 30%

Rate/Badlar

+ 3.94%

 

07.13.16

 

 

677,665

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

10.24.16

 

$

 

XXVI Series I

 

$

149,763

 

 

Simple

 

547 days

 

04.24.18

 

Minimum 26%

Rate/Badlar

+ 2.75%

 

10.14.16

 

 

289,314

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(***)

 

10.24.16

 

$

 

XXVI Series II

 

$

350,237

 

 

Simple

 

1,461 days

 

10.24.20

 

Minimum 26%

Rate/Badlar + 4%

 

10.14.16

 

 

676,589

 

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

02.19.16

 

$

 

I

 

$

150,000

 

 

Simple

 

18 Months

 

08.19.17

 

Variable Badlar

+4.5%

 

02.04.16

 

 

234,493

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21,848,460

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

(**) Not convertible into shares.

(1) Annual nominal 27% fixed rate during the first nine months, and variable Badlar plus an annual 4.25% rate for the following 15 months.

(2) On May 4, 2017, Banco Galicia redeemed all outstanding negotiable obligations due 2018, at a price equal to 100% of their residual face value, plus accrued interest up to, but excluding, the redemption date.

(3) The net proceeds from this issuance of negotiable obligations was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Negotiable Obligations and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.
(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(**)

Not convertible into shares.

(***)

Negotiable Obligations merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

(1)

In accordance with the issuance conditions, they were converted into Ps. 2,360,360. The foreign exchange risk is assumed by the investor because the services of interest and principal are calculated based on the amount of principal in Argentine pesos and converted into payments in US dollars on each payment date.

(2)

Issued under the Frequent Issuer Regime.

The repurchases of Own Debt securities as of the indicated dates are as follows:

 

Company

 

ON Class

 

Face Value as of

12.31.18

 

 

Carrying Amount(*) as of

12.31.18

 

  ON Class   Nominal Value as of
12.31.20
   Book Value(*) as of
12.31.20
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

Class III

 

 

2,335

 

 

 

36,437

 

   V Serie II    5,000    5,330 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

Class V – Series II

 

 

48,000

 

 

 

47,178

 

   VIII    79,000    82,207 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXV Series II

 

 

51,500

 

 

 

49,783

 

   XXXVII    9,620    106,451 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVI Series II

 

 

10,000

 

 

 

10,546

 

   XLIV    235,000    252,052 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVII

 

 

11,783

 

 

 

184,535

 

   XLV    440,000    443,520 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVIII

 

 

3,870

 

 

 

4,135

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXIX

 

 

5,000

 

 

 

5,351

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XL

 

 

16,000

 

 

 

17,504

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XLI Series I

 

 

1,000

 

 

 

936

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XLI Series II

 

 

19,000

 

 

 

20,227

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XLII

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

54,389

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXIV Series II

 

 

80,000

 

 

 

82,947

 

   XXVIII Serie II    18,889    19,398 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXV Series II

 

 

9,000

 

 

 

8,984

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVI Series II

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

27,027

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVII Series I

 

 

36,761

 

 

 

37,282

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVII Series II

 

 

5,488

 

 

 

5,757

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVIII Series II

 

 

8,254

 

 

 

8,501

 

      

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

601,519

 

       908,958 
      

 

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

(**) Debt securities merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

F-54


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Company

  ON Class   Nominal Value as of
12.31.19
   Book Value(*) as
of 12.31.19
 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

   V Series II    5,000    7,330 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   XXXV Series II    38,500    50,473 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   XXXVII    1,468    34,075 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   XL Series II    34,500    43,535 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   XLI Series II    15,000    21,716 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   XLIII    16,500    18,239 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

   XXV    8,000    11,319 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

   XXVI Series II    10,000    15,351 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

   XXVII Series II    17,442    25,330 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

   XXVIII Series II    8,254    11,535 
      

 

 

 

Total

       238,903 
      

 

 

 

 

Company

 

ON Class

 

Face Value as of

12.31.17

 

 

Carrying Amount(*) as

of 12.31.17

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

Class III

 

290

 

 

 

6,863

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXIII Series II

 

 

13,231

 

 

 

21,313

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXIV Series II

 

 

2,111

 

 

 

3,270

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXV Series II

 

 

15,500

 

 

 

23,786

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVI Series I

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

2,984

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVI Series II

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

31,372

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Class XXXVIII

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

3,040

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXIV Series II

 

 

35,000

 

 

 

55,333

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVI Series II

 

 

60,540

 

 

 

94,889

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVII Series II

 

 

2,871

 

 

 

4,251

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

Class XXVIII Series II

 

 

66,659

 

 

 

106,851

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

353,952

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

(**) Debt securities merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

Company

 

ON Class

 

Face Value as of

01.01.17

 

 

Carrying Amount(*) as

of 01.01.17

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

 

VII

 

 

3,000

 

 

 

5,776

 

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

 

-

 

US$ 7,865

 

 

 

241,671

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XIII

 

US$ 3,998

 

 

 

40,031

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXVIII Series II

 

 

35,000

 

 

 

22,463

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXIX

 

 

3,500

 

 

 

6,729

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXX

 

 

65,900

 

 

 

119,696

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXI

 

 

20,730

 

 

 

40,109

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXII

 

 

109,257

 

 

 

211,429

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXIII Series I

 

 

14,000

 

 

 

27,250

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXIII Series II

 

 

3,184

 

 

 

6,335

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXIV Series I

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

36,717

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXIV Series II

 

 

6,111

 

 

 

11,286

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXV Series II

 

 

17,500

 

 

 

32,460

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXVI Series I

 

 

16,610

 

 

 

30,984

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

XXXVI Series II

 

 

85,228

 

 

 

159,460

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

XIX Series II

 

 

65,500

 

 

 

123,871

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

XXI

 

 

31,383

 

 

 

60,648

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

XXIII

 

 

79,243

 

 

 

148,408

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

XXIV Series II

 

 

49,000

 

 

 

94,683

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.(**)

 

XXV

 

 

52,000

 

 

 

99,338

 

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

I

 

 

30,259

 

 

 

56,736

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,576,080

 

(*) It includes principal and interest.

(**) Debt securities merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.
(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(**)

Debt securities merged into by Tarjeta Naranja S.A. following its merger with Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A.

Related-party information is disclosed in Note 52.51.

NOTE 29.28. SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES

The Company has the following subordinated debt securities not convertible into shares issued under the Global Programs detailed in Note 2827 as of the close of the fiscal year:

 

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

ON Class

 

 

Face  Value

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized

by the

C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount

as of

12.31.18(*)

 

  Placement Date  Currency  ON Class  Nominal Value   Term Maturity
Date
   Rate Issuance
Authorized
by the
CNV
   Book Value
as of
12.31.20(*)
 

Banco de Galicia y Bs. As. S.A.U.

 

07.19.16

 

US$

 

 

-

 

 

US$ 250,000

 

120 months(1)

 

 

-

 

 

(2)(3)

 

06.23.16

 

 

9,767,874

 

  07.19.16  USD  II   USD250,000    120 months(1)  07.19.26    (2 )  06.23.16    21,653,546 
                

 

 

 

(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Amortization shall be fully made upon maturity, on July 19, 2026, unless redeemed, at the issuer’s option, fully at a price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal plus accrued and unpaid interest.

(2)

Fixed 8.25% rate p.a. (as from the issuance date to July 19, 2021, inclusively); and margin to be added to the nominal Benchmark Readjustment Rate of 7.156% p.a. to the due date of Debt securities. Such interest shall be payable semiannually on January 19 and July 19 as from 2017.

Company

  Placement Date   Currency   ON Class   Nominal Value   Term  Maturity
Date
   Rate  Issuance
Authorized
by the
CNV
   Book Value
as of
12.31.19(*)
 

Banco de Galicia y Bs. As. S.A.U.

   07.19.16    USD    II    USD250,000    120 months(1)   07.19.26    (2 )   06.23.16    21,100,718 
                

 

 

 

(3)

(*)

The net proceeds from this issuance of debt securities was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Debt securities and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.


F-55


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

ON Class

 

 

Face  Value

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized

by the

C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount

as of

12.31.17(*)

 

Banco de Galicia y Bs. As. S.A.U.

 

07.19.16

 

US$

 

 

-

 

 

US$ 250,000

 

120 months(1)

 

 

-

 

 

(2)(3)

 

06.23.16

 

 

7,128,356

 

(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Amortization shall be fully made upon maturity, on July 19, 2026, unless redeemed, at the issuer’s option, fully at a price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal plus accrued and unpaid interest.

(2)

Fixed 8.25% rate p.a. (as from the issuance date to July 19, 2021, inclusively); and margin to be added to the nominal Benchmark Readjustment Rate of 7.156% p.a. until the date of Date Securities.. Such interest shall be payable semiannually on January 19 and July 19 as from 2017.

(3)

The net proceeds from this issuance of debt securities was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Debt securities and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

Company

 

Date of

Placement

 

Currency

 

ON Class

 

 

Face  Value

 

Term

 

Maturity

Date

 

 

Rate

 

Issuance

Authorized

by the

C.N.V.

 

Carrying

Amount

as of

01.01.17(*)

 

Banco de Galicia y Bs. As. S.A.U.

 

07.19.16

 

US$

 

 

-

 

 

US$ 250,000

 

120 months(1)

 

 

-

 

 

(2)(3)

 

06.23.16

 

 

7,490,444

 

(*)

It includes principal and interest.

(1)

Amortization shall be fully made upon maturity, on July 19, 2026, unless redeemed, at the issuer’s option, fully at a price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal plus accrued and unpaid interest.

(2)

Fixed 8.25% rate p.a. (as from the issuance date to July 19, 2021, inclusively); and margin to be added to the nominal Benchmark Readjustment Rate of 7.156% p.a. to the due date of Debt securities. Such interest shall be payable semiannually on January 19 and July 19 as from 2017.

The net proceeds from this issuance of debt securities was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Debt securities and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

(3)

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The net proceeds from this issuance of debt securities was applied to investments in working capital, loans, other loans and other uses envisaged by the provisions of the Law on Debt securities and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

NOTE 30.29. PROVISIONS

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

For Administrative, Disciplinary and Criminal Penalties

 

 

5,306

 

 

 

7,357

 

 

 

10,134

 

For Termination Benefits

 

 

86,926

 

 

 

109,295

 

 

 

83,322

 

Others

 

 

1,357,091

 

 

 

780,608

 

 

 

615,757

 

Total

 

 

1,449,323

 

 

 

897,260

 

 

 

709,213

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

For Administrative, Disciplinary and Criminal Penalties

   5,306    7,224 

For Termination Benefits

   220,824    233,287 

Others

   3,550,167    3,499,223 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   3,776,297    3,739,734 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in the "Provisions"“Provisions” account for FY 2018fiscal year 2020 are detailed in Schedule J.

See Note 4746 for further details.

Changes for FY 2017 are disclosed below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decreases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item

 

Balances at

Beginning  of

Year

 

 

Increases

 

 

Reversals

 

 

Uses

 

 

Inflation

effect

 

 

Balances

as of

12.31.17

 

Provisions

 

 

709,213

 

 

 

554,042

 

 

 

(48,493

)

 

 

(148,917

)

 

 

(168,585

)

 

 

897,260

 

Total

 

 

709,213

 

 

 

554,042

 

 

 

(48,493

)

 

 

(148,917

)

 

 

(168,585

)

 

 

897,260

 

NOTE 31.30. OTHER NON-FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Withholdings and Additional Withholdings Payable

 

 

2,901,402

 

 

 

2,781,222

 

 

 

3,212,628

 

Salaries and Social Security Contributions Payable

 

 

2,841,885

 

 

 

2,227,181

 

 

 

2,153,525

 

Withholdings Payable on Salaries

 

 

185,625

 

 

 

160,765

 

 

 

205,275

 

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

Creditors for sale of assets

   594,481    601,965 

Tax withholdings and collections payable

   6,755,148    5,193,979 

Payroll and Social Contributions Payable

   7,057,226    6,446,491 

Withholdings on Payroll Payable

   371,236    366,972 

Fess to Directors and Syndics

   221,520    96,834 

Value-Added Tax

 

 

527,563

 

 

 

519,125

 

 

 

492,704

 

   851,232    867,885 

Sundry Creditors

 

 

1,601,166

 

 

 

3,558,480

 

 

 

1,267,562

 

   4,447,128    4,097,837 

Liabilities for Assets Held for Sale(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,662,306

 

 

 

8,662,306

 

Taxes Payable

 

 

1,930,074

 

 

 

1,920,028

 

 

 

1,390,508

 

   3,270,895    3,600,729 

Liabilities Arising from Contracts with Customers

 

 

1,071,636

 

 

 

1,061,197

 

 

 

834,413

 

Obligations Arising from Contracts with Customers

   1,348,700    1,654,612 

Retirement payment orders pending settlement

   90,588    100,941 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

412,179

 

 

 

252,150

 

 

 

307,036

 

   250,074    211,082 
  

 

   

 

 

Total

 

 

11,471,530

 

 

 

21,142,454

 

 

 

18,525,957

 

   25,258,228    23,239,327 
  

 

   

 

 

(*)

Liabilities of Compañía Financiera Argentina S.A. and Cobranzas y Servicios S.A. (See Note 23).

F-56


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Deferred income resulting from contracts with customers includes the liabilities for the “Quiero” Customers Loyalty Program. The Group estimates the fair value of the points assigned to customers under the above-mentioned program. This value is estimated by means of the use of a mathematical model that takes into accountconsiders certain assumptions of redemption rates, the fair value for the exchanged points based on the combination of available products and the customers'customers’ preferences, as well as breakage. As of December 31, 2018, $918,3752020, Ps.1,114,594 was recorded for non-exchanged points, whereas as of December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017,2019, such amount totaled $1,061,197 and $834,413, respectively.Ps.1,384,660.

The following table shows the estimated use of the liabilities recorded as of this fiscal year-end.

 

 

 

Terms

 

 

 

 

 

Item

 

Up to 12

Months

 

 

Up to 24

Months

 

 

Over 24

Months

 

 

Total

 

Liabilities – “Quiero” Customers Loyalty Program

 

 

394,901

 

 

 

330,615

 

 

 

192,859

 

 

 

918,375

 

   Terms 

Item

  Up to 12
Months
   Up to 24
Months
   Over 24
Months
   Total 

Liabilities – “Quiero” Customers Loyalty Program

   632,815    271,377    210,402    1,114,594 
        

 

 

 

NOTE 32.31. CAPITAL STOCK

The capital stock structure is detailed in Schedule K.

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ MeetingDue to the spin-off-merger in Tarjetas Regionales S.A. non-controlling interest, mentioned in Note 15.1, the Company increased its capital by 47,927,494 Class B shares.

On March 16, 2021 the capital increase of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. held on August 15, 2017 decided to approve an increase in capital stock by means of the issuance of up to 150,000,000 ordinary book-entry Class “B” shares, entitled to one vote per share and with a face value of $1 each. These shares are entitled to dividends with the same rights to the shares outstanding at the time of the issuance.

On September 7, 2017, the Board of Directors of the C.N.V., by means of Joint Resolution No. RESFC-2017-18927-APN-DIR#CNV, decided to authorize the public offering of 130,434,600 ordinary book-entry Class “B” shares, with a face value of $1 and one vote per share and, in case of over-subscription, an increase in such offering up to 19,565,190 ordinary book-entry Class “B” shares, with a face value of $1 and one vote each to be offered for public subscription, with preemptive and accretion rights.

The primary offering year ended on September 26, 2017, with 109,999,996 Class “B” shares having been subscribed at a price of US$5 each. On September 29, 2017, such shares were issued and integrated.

The Company granted over-subscription rights to international placement agents who, on October 2, 2017, enforced such rights and were awarded additional 16,500,004 Class “B” shares at a price of US$5 each, the issuance and payment of which took place on October 4, 2017.

The capital increase amounted to $11,004,383  (which is equal to $17,212,307 as of December 31, 2018), the expenses related thereto amounted to $146,347 (which is equal to $229,358 as of December 31, 2018) and were deducted from additional paid-in capital.

On November 8, 2017, the capital increase was registered with the Public Registry of Commerce.

The expenses related to the capital increase amounted to Ps. 13,149 and are deducted from the share premium.

The Company has no own shares in portfolio.

The Company'sCompany’s shares are listed on Bolsas y Mercados Argentinos (BYMA), Mercado Abierto Electrónico S.A. (MAE) and the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ).

NOTE 33.32. INCOME STATEMENT BREAKDOWN

Breakdown of: Interest Income, Fee Income and Net Income from Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss are detailed in Schedule Q.

NOTE 34.33. EXCHANGE RATE DIFFERENCES ON GOLD AND FOREIGN CURRENCY QUOTATION DIFFERENCES

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Arising from:

  12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

For Purchase sale of foreign currency

   5,958,974    17,214,089    12,543,415 

For Valuation of Assets and Liabilities in Foreign Currency

   1,088,473    (5,382,637   (4,633,158
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   7,047,447    11,831,452    7,910,257 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 34. OTHER OPERATING INCOME

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

Originated by:

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Foreign Currency Brokerage

 

 

5,989,359

 

 

 

2,942,860

 

Valuation of Foreign Currency Assets and Liabilities

 

 

(2,212,288

)

 

 

536,001

 

Total

 

 

3,777,071

 

 

 

3,478,861

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Fees for Product Package

   6,296,738    5,684,656    5,719,226 

Other Adjustments and Interest on sundry Credits

   5,246,030    3,110,290    3,349,720 

Rental of Safety Deposit Boxes

   1,295,199    1,010,452    1,080,908 

Other Financial Income

   579,211    1,577,962    353,035 

Other Income from Services

   4,237,539    3,341,244    6,176,597 

Income for sale of non-currents assets held for sale(1)

   —      9,676,346    1,027,022 

Others

   4,667,914    4,368,482    4,156,472 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   22,322,631    28,769,432    21,862,980 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes the profit on sale of the interest in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A. See Note 14.

F-57


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 35. OTHER OPERATINGUNDERWRITING INCOME FROM INSURANCE BUSINESS

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Commission on Product Package

 

 

2,730,875

 

 

 

2,803,596

 

Other Adjustments and Interest from Miscellaneous Receivables

 

 

1,599,459

 

 

 

456,234

 

Rental of Safe Deposit Boxes

 

 

516,123

 

 

 

512,318

 

Other Financial Income

 

 

168,571

 

 

 

58,113

 

Other Income from Services

 

 

4,081,817

 

 

 

3,176,518

 

Others

 

 

2,475,068

 

 

 

1,989,853

 

Total

 

 

11,571,913

 

 

 

8,996,632

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Premiums and Surcharges Accrued

   7,789,375    7,607,216    9,816,413 

Claims Accrued

   (1,126,864   (1,052,763   (1,122,301

Redemptions

   (16,844   (18,273   (12,084

Fixed and Periodic Annuities

   (13,588   (15,758   (17,887

Production and Operating Expenses

   (1,064,782   (1,515,532   (2,691,169

Other Income and Expenses

   (65,490   (4,021   36,195 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   5,501,807    5,000,869    6,009,167 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 36. UNDERWRITING INCOME FROM INSURANCE BUSINESS

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Premiums and Surcharges Accrued

 

 

4,687,242

 

 

 

5,260,902

 

Claims Accrued

 

 

(535,888

)

 

 

(604,908

)

Surrenders

 

 

(5,770

)

 

 

(7,564

)

Life and Ordinary Annuities

 

 

(8,541

)

 

 

(9,182

)

Underwriting and Operating Expenses

 

 

(1,285,007

)

 

 

(1,299,507

)

Other Income and Expenses

 

 

17,283

 

 

 

(24,829

)

Total

 

 

2,869,319

 

 

 

3,314,912

 

NOTE 37. LOAN LOSS PROVISION

The changes in the loss allowance between the beginning and the end of the annual period are detailed in Note 46.

45.

NOTE 38.37. PERSONNEL EXPENSES

The following are the items included in the account as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Salaries

 

 

11,657,815

 

 

 

11,513,774

 

Social Security Contributions on Salaries

 

 

1,715,592

 

 

 

1,840,448

 

Severance Payments and Personnel Bonuses

 

 

2,730,047

 

 

 

2,908,611

 

Personnel Services

 

 

538,941

 

 

 

448,431

 

Other Short-term Employee Benefits

 

 

328,052

 

 

 

377,408

 

Other Long-term Employee Benefits

 

 

55,800

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

17,026,247

 

 

 

17,088,672

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Payroll

   19,789,826    20,504,481    24,414,768 

Social Contributions on Payroll

   4,553,002    4,500,774    3,592,936 

Personnel Compensations and Rewards

   5,811,760    6,424,341    5,717,492 

Services for Personnel

   765,223    972,727    1,128,695 

Other Short-term Personnel Expenses

   781,545    746,668    687,034 

Other Long-term Personnel Expenses

   123,745    135,970    116,861 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   31,825,101    33,284,961    35,657,786 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 39.38. ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

The Group presented its statement of comprehensive income by function. Under this method, expenses are classified according to their function as part of the item “Administrative Expenses”.

The table below provides the required additional information about expenses by nature and function as of the indicated dates:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Fees and Compensation for Services

 

 

1,216,542

 

 

 

518,772

 

Directors’ and Syndics' Fees

 

 

174,191

 

 

 

134,483

 

Advertising and Publicity

 

 

1,278,061

 

 

 

1,237,729

 

Taxes

 

 

3,369,396

 

 

 

3,522,967

 

Maintenance and Repairs

 

 

1,415,585

 

 

 

1,035,880

 

Electricity and Communications

 

 

961,421

 

 

 

920,058

 

Entertainment and Transportation Expenses

 

 

102,326

 

 

 

130,526

 

Stationery and Office Supplies

 

 

210,613

 

 

 

201,747

 

Rentals

 

 

826,357

 

 

 

738,382

 

Administrative Services Hired

 

 

1,293,996

 

 

 

1,286,759

 

Security

 

 

558,520

 

 

 

624,814

 

Insurance

 

 

454,476

 

 

 

455,360

 

Others

 

 

4,217,670

 

 

 

3,616,080

 

Total

 

 

16,079,154

 

 

 

14,423,557

 

F-58


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Fees and Remunerations for Services

   2,722,767    3,980,217    2,547,784 

Directors’ and Syndics’ Fees

   472,614    222,405    364,805 

Advertising and Publicity

   1,742,441    2,959,534    2,676,622 

Taxes

   7,362,438    7,051,537    7,056,470 

Maintenance and Repairs of Assets and Systems

   5,295,507    4,911,367    2,964,636 

Electricity and Communications

   2,371,181    2,484,059    2,013,488 

Representation and Travel Expenses

   58,367    172,242    214,300 

Stationery and Office Supplies

   419,380    513,980    441,083 

Rentals

   308,848    135,793    1,730,626 

Administrative Services under Contract

   4,230,573    3,369,599    2,709,994 

Security

   1,162,314    1,332,404    1,169,699 

Insurance

   251,297    179,940    951,802 

Armored Transportation Services

   1,559,087    2,803,034    2,367,736 

Others

   3,414,808    2,989,088    6,465,260 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   31,371,622    33,105,199    33,674,305 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 40.39. DEPRECIATION AND IMPAIRMENT OF ASSETS

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Depreciation of Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

1,115,673

 

 

 

1,040,438

 

Amortization of Organization and Development Expenses

 

 

533,430

 

 

 

394,885

 

Others

 

 

2,872

 

 

 

4,117

 

Total

 

 

1,651,975

 

 

 

1,439,440

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Depreciation of Property, Plant and Equipment

   5,173,340    4,979,957    2,336,535 

Amortization of Organization and Development Expenses

   2,989,613    1,909,413    1,117,154 

Others

   121,333    5,574    6,015 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   8,284,286    6,894,944    3,459,704 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 41.40. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

The account breaks down as follows as of the indicated dates:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Turnover Tax

 

 

8,647,616

 

 

 

6,976,566

 

Contributions to the Guarantee Fund

 

 

510,843

 

 

 

438,487

 

Charges for Other Provisions

 

 

1,056,171

 

 

 

360,530

 

Claims

 

 

310,406

 

 

 

199,172

 

Other Financial Income

 

 

546,541

 

 

 

319,634

 

Other Expenses from Services

 

 

5,069,626

 

 

 

4,796,835

 

Others

 

 

757,862

 

 

 

1,514,002

 

Total

 

 

16,899,065

 

 

 

14,605,226

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Turnover Tax

   15,662,817    17,813,939    18,110,558 

Contributions to the Deposit Insurance Scheme

   1,059,292    1,175,021    1,069,850 

Charges for Other Provisions

   2,868,794    2,314,952    2,211,921 

Claims

   375,311    457,762    650,078 

Other Financial Expenses

   286,002    2,498,764    1,144,612 

Interest on leases

   398,850    511,138    -    

Credit-card-relates expenses

   4,486,875    6,046,394    6,161,264 

Other Expenses from Services

   3,920,476    2,978,819    4,455,969 

Others

   1,705,344    1,286,029    1,587,179 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   30,763,761    35,082,818    35,391,431 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 42.41. INCOME TAX/DEFERRED TAX

The following is a reconciliation of income tax charged to income as of December 31, 2018,2020, as compared to the previous fiscal year:

 

   12.31.20  12.31.19  12.31.18 

Income Before Income Tax for the Year

   43,022,883   51,046,575   6,339,833 

Current Tax Rate

   30  30  30
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Income for the Year at Tax Rate

   (12,906,866  (15,313,973  (1,901,950

Permanent Differences at Tax Rate

    

- Income for Equity Instruments

   (37,516  -      434,390 

- Untaxed Income

   166,909   130,190   378,202 

- Donations and Other Non-deductible Expenses

   (32,018  (21,627  (138,057

- Other

   (3,001,548  (83,089  (851,579

- Allowance for Impairment

   -      -      (3,954

- Inflation effect

   (10,569,560  (12,260,928  (13,426,074

- Tax Adjustment under Law 27430

   695,456   (116,806  965,898 

- Tax inflation adjustment

   2,895,013   1,680,922   -    

- Tax inflation adjustment deferral

   5,090,717   7,914,419   -    
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total Income Tax Charge for the Year

   (17,699,413  (18,070,892  (14,543,124
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Income for the Year Before Income Tax

 

 

(3,027,209

)

 

 

(14,483,807

)

Effective Tax Rate

 

 

30

%

 

 

35

%

Income (Loss) for the Year at the Tax Rate

 

 

(908,163

)

 

 

(5,069,332

)

Permanent Differences at the Tax Rate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Income (Loss) from Equity Instruments

 

 

207,417

 

 

 

93,519

 

- Non-taxable Income (Loss)

 

 

180,588

 

 

 

94,244

 

- Donations and Other Non-deductible Expenses

 

 

(65,921

)

 

 

(82,312

)

- Other

 

 

(406,621

)

 

 

(302,991

)

- Allowance for Impairment

 

 

(1,888

)

 

 

211,250

 

- Fines

 

 

-

 

 

 

(63

)

- Inflation effect

 

 

(6,410,820

)

 

 

(3,303,793

)

- Law 27430 Rate Adjustment

 

 

461,207

 

 

 

718,691

 

Total Income Tax Charge for the Year

 

 

(6,944,201

)

 

 

(7,640,787

)

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Current Income Tax

 

 

(6,921,400

)

 

 

(6,971,658

)

Deferred Tax Charge(*)

 

 

397,187

 

 

 

(730,095

)

Allowance for Impairment(*)

 

 

(1,888

)

 

 

211,250

 

Adjustment to Prior-Year Tax Return

 

 

(82,340

)

 

 

(151,496

)

Law 27430 Adjustment

 

 

(335,760

)

 

 

1,212

 

Total Income Tax Charge for the Year

 

 

(6,944,201

)

 

 

(7,640,787

)

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Current Income Tax

   (26,644,905   (20,759,986   (14,495,373

Deferred Tax Charge(*)

   8,274,837    2,751,269    831,822 

Allowance for Impairment(*)

   —      —      (3,954

Tax Return adjustment from previous fiscal year

   670,655    (62,175   (172,442

Law 27430 adjustment

   —      —      (703,177
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Income Tax Charge for the Year

   (17,699,413   (18,070,892   (14,543,124
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Current Income Tax

   (26,644,905   (20,759,986   (14,495,373

Tax Advances

   11,417,431    6,717,751    7,254,160 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

   (15,227,474   (14,042,235   (7,241,213
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(*)

See Note 20.19.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Current Income Tax

 

 

(6,921,400

)

 

 

(6,971,658

)

Tax Advances

 

 

3,463,791

 

 

 

3,393,129

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

(3,457,609

)

 

 

(3,578,529

)

In September 2017,As of December 31, 2020, several claims filed by Banco Galicia filed with A.F.I.P. both actions for recoveryrefund of income taxthe Income Tax paid in excess for the fiscal years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2016, totaling $433,8152019, for the amounts of Ps.433,815, Ps.459,319, Ps.944,338, Ps.866,842, Ps.3,646,842 and $944,338, respectively.Ps.4,403,712, respectively, were submitted to the Federal Administration of Public Revenue (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos, AFIP). These actions were groundedpresentations are based on case lawArgentine jurisprudence that declared unconstitutional certainestablishes the unconstitutionality of the rules and regulations banningdisabling the application of the inflation adjustment for tax purposes, withinflation, resulting in confiscatory situations. As the ensuing confiscatory effects.AFIP delayed its resolution, the corresponding judicial claims were filed. At the closing of these financial statements,Financial Statements, Banco Galicia hasdoes not recorded balances in respect ofrecord assets related to the contingent assets stemmingderived from the aforementioned actions.presentations.

Identical claims were filed by other Group subsidiaries before the AFIP: Tarjeta Naranja S.A., for 2014 and 2016 fiscal years, for a total amount of Ps. 580,164, nominal value. Tarjetas Cuyanas S.A., (Tarjeta Naranja S.A. predecessor company), for 2014 and 2016 fiscal years, for an amount of Ps. 145,478, nominal value, and Tarjetas Regionales S.A., for 2017 and 2018 periods, for an amount of Ps. 326,498 and Ps. 973,843, nominal value, respectively. In light of the delay in the resolution by the AFIP, the corresponding judicial claims were filed. In the same terms as for the rest of the years claimed, on May 26, 2020, Tarjeta Naranja S.A. filed before the AFIP a claim for the repetition of the Income Tax corresponding to fiscal year 2019 for Ps. 1,364,949 in nominal value.

Tax Reform

On December 29, 2017, the National Executive BranchGovernment enacted Income Tax Law No. 27430. This law has introduced several changes to the previous income tax treatment. Some of the key changes involved in the reform include:

F-59


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.Income Tax Rate: The income tax rate for Argentine companies shall be gradually reduced from 35% to 30% for fiscal years commencing on January 1, 2018 until December 31, 2019, and to 25% for fiscal years commencing on, and including, January 1, 2020.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

-

Income Tax Rate: The income tax rate for Argentine companies shall be gradually reduced from 35% to 30% for fiscal years commencing on January 1, 2018 until December 31, 2019, and to 25% for fiscal years commencing on, and including, January 1, 2020.

-

Tax on Dividends: The law has introduced a tax on dividends or profits distributed by Argentine companies or permanent establishments, among others, to: individuals, undivided interests or foreign beneficiaries, subject to the following considerations: (i) dividends distributed out of the profits made during fiscal years commencing on January 1, 2018 until December 31, 2019 shall be subject to withholding at a 7% rate; and (ii) dividends distributed out of the profits made during fiscal years commencing on January 1, 2020 onwards shall be subject to withholding at a 13% rate.

Dividends distributed from profits earned until the fiscal year before that commenced on January 1, 2018 shall remain subject, in respect of all beneficiaries, to withholding at the 35% rate on the amount in excess of tax-free distributable accumulated profits (equalization tax transition period).

-

Optional Tax Revaluation: Regulations establish that, at the companies’ option, the tax revaluation of assets located in the country and that are used for generating taxable income may be made. The special tax on the revaluation amount depends on the asset: 8% is for real estate that does not qualify as inventories, 15% for real estate that qualifies as inventories and 10% for personal property and the remaining assets. Once the option for a given asset is exercised, all the other assets of the same category should be revalued. Taxable income resulting from the revaluation is not subject to income tax and the special tax on the revaluation amount will not be deductible from such tax.

On December 23, 2019, the Argentine Government enacted Law 27,541, which introduced several changes for processing the Income Tax:

Income tax rate: the reduction is suspended of the tax rate for fiscal years commenced up to January 1, 2021; therefore, for fiscal years closing on December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021, the rate is established at 30%.

Inflation adjustment: The inflation adjustment for the first and second fiscal year commenced January 1, 2019, must be charged one sixth (1/6) in that fiscal period, and the remaining five sixths (5/6), in equal parts, in the following five immediate fiscal periods.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As of the closing date of these consolidated financial statements, the Group verified that the parameters established by the Law on Income Tax for the application of the tax inflation adjustment are met; consequently, this adjustment has been considered to determine the income tax for the fiscal year. The effect of the deferral of five-sixths of the inflation taxable income has been recognized as a deferred tax asset. (See Note 19).

Optional Tax Revaluation: Regulations establish that, at the companies' option, the tax revaluation of assets located in the country and that are used for generating taxable income may be made. The special tax on the revaluation amount depends on the asset: 8% is for real estate that does not qualify as inventories, 15% for real estate that qualifies as inventories and 10% for personal property and the remaining assets. Once the option for a given asset is exercised, all the other assets of the same category should be revalued. Taxable income resulting from the revaluation is not subject to income tax and the special tax on the revaluation amount will not be deductible from such tax.

NOTE 43.42. DIVIDENDS

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders'Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 28, 2020 approved the Financial Statements as of December 31, 2019 and the treatment of income for the fiscal year ended on that date.

Said Meeting approved Retained Earnings distribution, allocating Ps. 4,000,000 (equivalent to Ps. 4,977,135 as of December 31, 2020) to Optional Reserve for Future Income Distribution.

The Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on September 22, 2020, approved the partial use of the aforementioned reserve for the amount of Ps. 1,700,000 (equivalent to Ps.1,892,559 as of December 31, 2020) and the distribution of cash dividends for the same amount, which represented Ps. 1.19 (figure expressed in Argentine pesos) per share. On October 5, 2020, the aforementioned dividends were paid to the Company’s Shareholders.

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 25, 2019 approved the financial statements as of December 31, 2018 and the treatment of income for the fiscal year then ended.

The dividends approved by such Shareholders’ Meeting amounted to Ps.2,000,000 (which is equal to Ps.3,622,432 as of December 31, 2020) and represented Ps.1.40 (figure stated in Pesos) per share. The dividends mentioned above were paid to the Group’s shareholders on May 9, 2019.

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 24, 2018 approved the financial statements as of December 31, 2017 and the treatment of income for the fiscal year then ended.

The dividends approved by such Shareholders'Shareholders’ Meeting amounted to $1,200,000Ps.1,200,000 (which is equal to $1,616,849Ps.3,386,137 as of December 31, 2018)2020) and represented $0.84Ps.1.40 (figure stated in Pesos) per share. The dividends mentioned above were paid to the Group'sGroup’s shareholders on May 9, 2018.

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting held on April 25, 2017 approved the financial statements as of December 31, 2016 and the treatment of income for the fiscal year then ended.

The dividends approved by such Shareholders' Meeting amounted to $240,000 (which is equal to $405,825 as of December 31, 2017) and represented $0.18 (figure stated in Pesos) per share. The dividends mentioned above were paid to the Group's shareholders on May 9, 2017.

NOTE 44.43. EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings per share are calculated by dividing income attributable to the Group's shareholdersparent company´s owners by the weighted average number of outstanding commonordinary shares during the year. As the Group does not have preferred shares or debt convertible into shares, basic earnings are equal to diluted earnings per share.

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Net Income for the Year Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

(3,465,822

)

 

 

6,793,588

 

Weighted Average Common Shares

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

1,332,617

 

Income per Share

 

 

(2.43

)

 

 

5.10

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Parent Company´s Owners

   25,191,673    32,276,377    (7,258,414

Weighted Average Ordinary Shares

   1,442,740    1,426,765    1,426,765 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings per Share

   17.46    22.62    (5.09
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 45.44. SEGMENT REPORTING

The Group determines segments based on management reports that are reviewed by the Board of Directors and updated as they show changes.

Reportable segments are one or more operating segments with similar economic characteristics, distribution channels and regulatory environments.

Below there is a description of each business segment’s composition:

a.

Banks: It represents the banking business operation results.

b.

Regional Credit Cards:Ecosistema Naranja X: This segment represents the results of operations of the regionalbrand credit card businesscards, consumer finance and includesdigital banking services business. Includes the results of operations of Tarjetas Regionales S.A. consolidated with its subsidiaries, as follows: Cobranzas Regionales S.A., Ondara S.A., Naranja Digital Companía Financiera S.A.U. and Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

c.

Insurance: This segment represents the results of operations of the insurance companies'companies’ business and includes the results of operations of Sudamericana Holding S.A. consolidated with its subsidiaries, as follows: Galicia Retiro Cía. de Seguros S.A., Galicia Seguros S.A. and Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

F-60


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

d.

Other Businesses: This segment shows the results of operations of Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A., Galicia Warrants S.A., IGAM LLC, Inviu S.A.U., IGAM Uruguay Agente de Valores S.A., Galicia ValoresSecurities S.A. and Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A., the last two net of eliminations of the income from equity investments. As of December 31, 2017, it as well included the results of operations of Net Investment S.A. (in liquidation).

e.

Adjustments: This segment includes consolidation adjustments and eliminations of transactions among subsidiaries.

The operating income (loss) of the Group'sGroup’s different operating segments is monitored separately in order to make decisions on resource allocation and the evaluation of each segment'ssegment’s performance. Segment performance is evaluated based on operating income or losses and is consistently measured with the operating income and losses of the consolidated income statement.

Intersegment transactions are at arm'sarm’s length similarly to transactions performed with third parties. Income, expenses and income (losses) resulting from the transfers among operating segments are then eliminated from consolidation.

The Group operates in one geographic segment, Argentina.

The relevant segment reporting as of the indicated dates is as follows:

 

   Banks  Ecosistema
Naranja X
  Insurance  Other
Businesses
  Adjustments  Total as of
12.31.20
 

Net Income from interest

   58,831,043   16,840,974   726,890   6,846   226,467   76,632,220 

Net fee Income

   20,979,744   16,669,667   —     (6,111  (1,085,741  36,557,559 

Net Income from Financial Instruments measured at fair value through Profit or Loss

   65,986,310   1,989,036   77,616   1,279,844   (904  69,331,902 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

   (3,129  —     —     —     —     (3,129

Exchange rate Differences on Gold and Foreign Currency

   6,024,766   370,320   (27,351  679,712   —     7,047,447 

Other Operating Income

   17,172,602   3,474,652   504,655   2,364,197   (1,193,475  22,322,631 

Income from Insurance Business

   —     —     3,496,191   —     2,005,616   5,501,807 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

   (29,971,572  (4,724,863  16,686   —     —     (34,679,749

Personnel Expenses

   (22,089,728  (8,079,947  (1,217,560  (437,866  —     (31,825,101

Administrative Expenses

   (21,429,312  (8,678,399  (656,618  (728,295  121,002   (31,371,622

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

   (6,116,752  (1,868,167  (270,398  (28,969  —     (8,284,286

Other Operating Expenses

   (23,844,607  (6,669,879  (4,357  (259,377  14,459   (30,763,761

Loss on net monetary position

   (30,367,677  (4,918,855  (815,279  (861,402  —     (36,963,213
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Operating Income

   35,171,688   4,404,539   1,830,475   2,008,579   87,424   43,502,705 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

   33,214   —     —     — ��   (158,267  (125,053

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

   35,204,902   4,404,539   1,830,475   2,008,579   (70,843  43,377,652 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

   (14,276,569  (2,245,164  (512,214  (810,925  —     (17,844,872

Net Income / (Loss) from Continuing Operations

   20,928,333   2,159,375   1,318,261   1,197,654   (70,843  25,532,780 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year

   20,928,333   2,159,375   1,318,261   1,197,654   (70,843  25,532,780 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

   (206,818  210   (2,861  159   —     (209,310

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Parent Company´s Owners

   20,721,515   2,160,262   1,315,400   1,197,813   (412,627  24,982,363 

Net Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   —     (677  —     —     341,784   341,107 

 

 

Banks

 

 

Regional

Credit Cards

 

 

Insurance

 

 

Other

Businesses

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Total as of

12.31.18

 

Net Income from interest

 

 

23,616,496

 

 

 

9,178,072

 

 

 

423,260

 

 

 

117,660

 

 

 

27,975

 

 

 

33,363,463

 

Net fee Income (Expense)

 

 

12,476,489

 

 

 

8,930,089

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,493

)

 

 

(1,166,922

)

 

 

20,238,163

 

Net Income from Financial Instruments measured at fair value through Profit or Loss

 

 

16,047,772

 

 

 

885,187

 

 

 

21,800

 

 

 

397,959

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,352,718

 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

 

 

221,639

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

221,639

 

Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

 

 

3,735,237

 

 

 

(50,793

)

 

 

4,139

 

 

 

88,488

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,777,071

 

Other Operating Income (Expense)

 

 

6,960,582

 

 

 

3,682,154

 

 

 

163,789

 

 

 

615,585

 

 

 

149,803

 

 

 

11,571,913

 

Underwriting Income from Insurance Business

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,612,319

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,257,000

 

 

 

2,869,319

 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

(10,872,910

)

 

 

(5,348,897

)

 

 

(77,920

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(16,299,727

)

Personnel Expenses

 

 

(11,544,850

)

 

 

(4,791,219

)

 

 

(574,795

)

 

 

(115,383

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(17,026,247

)

Administrative Expenses

 

 

(10,466,492

)

 

 

(4,955,287

)

 

 

(408,662

)

 

 

(279,696

)

 

 

30,983

 

 

 

(16,079,154

)

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

 

(1,019,284

)

 

 

(533,666

)

 

 

(91,474

)

 

 

(7,551

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,651,975

)

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

(12,823,603

)

 

 

(4,004,676

)

 

 

(402

)

 

 

(70,384

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(16,899,065

)

Loss on net monetary position

 

 

(11,204,647

)

 

 

(3,844,676

)

 

 

(560,529

)

 

 

(2,453,816

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(18,063,668

)

Operating Income

 

 

5,126,429

 

 

 

(853,712

)

 

 

511,525

 

 

 

(1,708,631

)

 

 

298,839

 

 

 

3,374,450

 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

44,146

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(18,065

)

 

 

(26,081

)

 

 

-

 

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

 

 

5,170,575

 

 

 

(853,712

)

 

 

511,525

 

 

 

(1,726,696

)

 

 

272,758

 

 

 

3,374,450

 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

 

(6,636,632

)

 

 

(1,285,983

)

 

 

(309,769

)

 

 

1,319,858

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,912,526

)

Net Income from Continuing Operations

 

 

(1,466,057

)

 

 

(2,139,695

)

 

 

201,756

 

 

 

(406,838

)

 

 

272,758

 

 

 

(3,538,076

)

Income from Discontinued Operations

 

 

(225,501

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(34,255

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(259,756

)

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

 

 

(30,306

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,369

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(31,675

)

Net Income (Loss) for the Year

 

 

(1,721,864

)

 

 

(2,139,695

)

 

 

201,756

 

 

 

(442,462

)

 

 

272,758

 

 

 

(3,829,507

)

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

(78,249

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(10,555

)

 

 

(87,485

)

 

 

88,804

 

 

 

(87,485

)

Net Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

59

 

 

 

372

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

363,254

 

 

 

363,685

 

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

(1,800,054

)

 

 

(2,139,323

)

 

 

191,201

 

 

 

(529,947

)

 

 

724,816

 

 

 

(3,553,307

)

F-61


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

   Banks  Ecosistema
Naranja X
  Insurance  Other
Businesses
  Adjustments  Total as of
12.31.19
 

Net Income from interest

   32,442,139   13,268,259   1,144,609   72,097   490,269   47,417,373 

Net fee Income

   21,760,110   17,674,484   —     494   (1,201,852  38,233,236 

Net Income from Financial Instruments measured at fair value through Profit or Loss

   95,152,485   3,505,253   97,496   396,262   —     99,151,496 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

   298,801   —     —     —     —     298,801 

Exchange rate Differences on Gold and Foreign Currency

   11,298,851   165,900   (3,767  370,468   —     11,831,452 

Other Operating Income

   23,726,714   4,921,986   538,849   1,158,077   (1,576,194  28,769,432 

Income from Insurance Business

   —     —     2,611,331   —     2,389,538   5,000,869 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

   (22,228,541  (8,088,703  89,576   —     —     (30,227,668

Personnel Expenses

   (24,303,615  (7,543,907  (1,109,048  (328,391  —     (33,284,961

Administrative Expenses

   (23,885,413  (8,247,798  (711,576  (434,955  174,543   (33,105,199

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

   (5,021,671  (1,558,316  (291,429  (23,528  —     (6,894,944

Other Operating Expenses

   (28,555,476  (6,378,283  (501  (157,840  9,282   (35,082,818

Loss on net monetary position

   (33,702,521  (6,306,209  (1,035,951  (884,221  —     (41,928,902
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Operating Income

   46,981,863   1,412,666   1,329,589   168,463   285,586   50,178,167 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

   78,244   —     —     —     (78,244  —   

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

   47,060,107   1,412,666   1,329,589   168,463   207,342   50,178,167 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

   (16,723,744  (523,435  (466,721  (36,782  —     (17,750,682

Net Income / (Loss) from Continuing Operations

   30,336,363   889,231   862,868   131,681   207,342   32,427,485 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year

   30,336,363   889,231   862,868   131,681   207,342   32,427,485 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

   562,786   —     (14,588  —     —     548,198 

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Parent Company´s Owners

   30,899,149   888,870   848,280   131,681   56,595   32,824,575 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   —     361   —     —     150,747   151,108 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Banks  Ecosistema
Naranja X
  Insurance  Other
Businesses
  Adjustments  Total as of
12.31.18
 

Net Income from interest

   49,448,811   19,221,483   886,426   257,238   58,588   69,872,546 

Net fee Income

   26,131,171   18,702,137   —     (4,995  (71,981  44,756,332 

Net Income from Financial Instruments measured at fair value through Profit or Loss

   33,481,710   1,853,832   45,655   960,312   —     36,341,509 

Income from Derecognition of Assets Measured at Amortized Cost

   464,175   —     —     —     —     464,175 

Exchange rate Differences on Gold and Foreign Currency

   7,726,274   (106,375  8,668   281,690   —     7,910,257 

Other Operating Income

   14,553,653   7,711,474   343,021   1,937,686   (2,682,854  21,862,980 

Income from Insurance Business

   —     —     3,376,653   —     2,632,514   6,009,167 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

   (22,770,955  (11,202,106  (163,186  —     —     (34,136,247

Personnel Expenses

   (24,154,702  (10,034,170  (1,203,784  (265,130  —     (35,657,786

Administrative Expenses

   (21,900,686  (10,377,775  (855,854  (604,877  64,887   (33,674,305

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

   (2,134,670  (1,117,648  (191,572  (15,814  —     (3,459,704

Other Operating Expenses

   (26,853,098  (8,386,926  (842  (150,565  —     (35,391,431

Loss on net monetary position

   (27,237,770  (8,051,841  (1,173,907  (1,366,921  —     (37,830,439
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Operating Income

   6,753,913   (1,787,915  1,071,278   1,028,624   1,154   7,067,054 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

   39,842   —     —     —     (39,842  —   

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

   6,793,755   (1,787,915  1,071,278   1,028,624   (38,688  7,067,054 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

   (10,491,620  (2,693,213  (648,744  (643,211  —     (14,476,788

Net Income / (Loss) from Continuing Operations

   (3,697,865  (4,481,128  422,534   385,413   (38,688  (7,409,734

Loss from Discontinued Operations

   (526,463  —     —     (17,540  —     (544,003

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

   (63,469  —     —     (2,867  —     (66,336

Net Income / (Loss) for the Year

   (4,287,797  (4,481,128  422,534   365,006   (38,688  (8,020,073

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

   (161,113  —     (22,105  —     —     (183,218

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to Parent Company´s Owners

   (4,448,910  (4,480,349  400,429   365,006   722,192   (7,441,632
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

   —     (779  —     —     (760,880  (761,659
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Banks

 

 

Regional

Credit Cards

 

 

Insurance

 

 

Other

Businesses

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Total as of

12.31.17

 

Net Income from interest

 

 

19,724,848

 

 

 

9,550,812

 

 

 

427,948

 

 

 

127,966

 

 

 

42,461

 

 

 

29,874,035

 

Net fee Income (Expense)

 

 

12,163,079

 

 

 

10,028,406

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,847

)

 

 

(43,012

)

 

 

22,145,626

 

Net Income from Financial Instruments measured at fair value through Profit or Loss

 

 

6,725,615

 

 

 

616,589

 

 

 

(16,744

)

 

 

1,130,565

 

 

 

5,313

 

 

 

8,461,338

 

Gold and Foreign Currency Quotation Differences

 

 

3,316,161

 

 

 

17,642

 

 

 

1,986

 

 

 

143,072

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,478,861

 

Other Operating Income

 

 

5,082,425

 

 

 

4,057,565

 

 

 

72,879

 

 

 

1,372,584

 

 

 

(1,588,821

)

 

 

8,996,632

 

Underwriting Income from Insurance Business

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,704,918

 

 

 

7,320

 

 

 

1,602,674

 

 

 

3,314,912

 

Loan and other Receivables Loss Provisions

 

 

(3,898,951

)

 

 

(3,272,811

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(122,094

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(7,293,856

)

Personnel Expenses

 

 

(11,355,757

)

 

 

(5,010,769

)

 

 

(551,418

)

 

 

(170,728

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(17,088,672

)

Administrative Expenses

 

 

(9,287,356

)

 

 

(4,516,331

)

 

 

(450,112

)

 

 

(198,830

)

 

 

29,072

 

 

 

(14,423,557

)

Depreciation and Impairment of Assets

 

 

(917,564

)

 

 

(460,394

)

 

 

(48,335

)

 

 

(13,147

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,439,440

)

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

(10,506,788

)

 

 

(4,019,688

)

 

 

(1,614

)

 

 

(77,241

)

 

 

105

 

 

 

(14,605,226

)

Loss on net monetary position

 

 

(2,629,379

)

 

 

(2,140,368

)

 

 

(346,257

)

 

 

(1,707,292

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,823,296

)

Operating Income

 

 

8,416,333

 

 

 

4,850,653

 

 

 

793,251

 

 

 

489,328

 

 

 

47,792

 

 

 

14,597,357

 

Share of profit from Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

2,048,332

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,318

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,730,468

)

 

 

321,182

 

Income before Taxes from Continuing Operations

 

 

10,464,665

 

 

 

4,850,653

 

 

 

796,569

 

 

 

489,328

 

 

 

(1,682,676

)

 

 

14,918,539

 

Income Tax from Continuing Operations

 

 

(4,478,396

)

 

 

(2,721,222

)

 

 

(411,465

)

 

 

292,056

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(7,319,027

)

Net Income from Continuing Operations

 

 

5,986,269

 

 

 

2,129,431

 

 

 

385,104

 

 

 

781,384

 

 

 

(1,682,676

)

 

 

7,599,512

 

Income from Discontinued Operations

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Income Tax from Discontinued Operations

 

 

(321,760

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(321,760

)

Net Income (Loss) for the Year

 

 

5,664,509

 

 

 

2,129,431

 

 

 

385,104

 

 

 

781,384

 

 

 

(1,682,676

)

 

 

7,277,752

 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

(454,753

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

23,053

 

 

 

(3,032

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(434,732

)

Net Income for the Year Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

 

 

-

 

 

 

105

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,866

 

 

 

(490,135

)

 

 

(484,164

)

Net Income (Loss) for the Year Attributable to owners of the Parent

 

 

5,209,756

 

 

 

2,129,536

 

 

 

408,157

 

 

 

784,218

 

 

 

(2,172,811

)

 

 

6,358,856

 

F-62


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

   Banks   Ecosistema
Naranja X
   Insurance   Other
Businesses
   Adjustments  Total as of
12.31.20
 

ASSETS

           

Cash and Due from Banks

   172,308,807    2,188,741    39,612    2,278,879    (1,392,563  175,423,476 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   155,892,300    91,762    —      173,800    (738,302  155,419,560 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   2,165,032    —      —      —      —     2,165,032 

Repurchase Transactions

   60,995,643    —      —      —      —     60,995,643 

Other Financial Assets

   6,920,271    1,281,954    815,104    1,077,956    (1,659  10,093,626 

Loans and Other Financing

   439,306,303    88,545,787    473,165    1,463,755    (3,354,891  526,434,119 

Other Debt Securities

   21,448,751    174,456    1,617,826    —      (170,656  23,070,377 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   18,639,697    9,126    —      68,620    —     18,717,443 

Current Income Tax Assets

   —      36,242    160,852    —      —     197,094 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   5,709,565    —      —      2,119    —     5,711,684 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

   480,530    —      —      —      (391,388  89,142 

Property, Plant and Equipment

   38,189,687    4,859,111    646,688    35,934    —     43,731,420 

Intangible Assets

   12,850,061    1,534,001    73,415    4,436,289    (4,424,945  14,468,821 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

   5,300,716    3,625,102    176,642    110,135    —     9,212,595 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

   —      —      1,885,937    —      (547  1,885,390 

Other Non-financial Assets

   5,782,609    725,134    27,372    1,099,312    —     7,634,427 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

   29,328    —      —      —      —     29,328 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

   946,019,300    103,071,416    5,916,613    10,746,799    (10,474,951  1,055,279,177 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

LIABILITIES

           

Deposits

   678,102,758    5    —      —      (1,707,028  676,395,735 

Liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss

   —      —      —      —      —     —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   57,450    —      —      —      —     57,450 

Other Financial Liabilities

   40,888,983    55,323,990    —      2,107,556    (849,064  97,471,465 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial

Institutions

   10,192,180    5,794,722    —      1    (2,153,464  13,833,439 

Debt Securities

   7,904,075    10,078,781    —      —      (908,958  17,073,898 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

   13,030,588    1,189,775    446,188    560,923    —     15,227,474 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   21,653,546    —      —      —      —     21,653,546 

Provisions

   3,432,729    145,058    136,010    62,500    —     3,776,297 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

   —      —      —      136,934    —     136,934 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

   —      —      2,060,999    —      (23  2,060,976 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   18,935,846    4,975,456    686,060    700,947    (40,081  25,258,228 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

   794,198,155    77,507,787    3,329,257    3,568,861    (5,658,618  872,945,442 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Banks

 

 

Regional

Credit Cards

 

 

Insurance

 

 

Other

Businesses

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Total as of

12.31.18

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

142,049,436

 

 

 

1,364,452

 

 

 

55,184

 

 

 

93,007

 

 

 

(252,651

)

 

 

143,309,428

 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

75,911,796

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

83,476

 

 

 

81,501

 

 

 

(141,610

)

 

 

75,935,163

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,068,076

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,691,607

 

 

 

3,677,018

 

 

 

234,656

 

 

 

503,650

 

 

 

(58,999

)

 

 

9,047,932

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

243,232,186

 

 

 

44,050,906

 

 

 

426,159

 

 

 

(1,887,892

)

 

 

(3,111,291

)

 

 

282,710,068

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

13,630,604

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

990,929

 

 

 

(65,632

)

 

 

(131,767

)

 

 

14,424,134

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

10,812,499

 

 

 

4,993

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,817,492

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

 

2,267,500

 

 

 

11,939

 

 

 

82,004

 

 

 

(2,266,525

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

94,918

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

159,602

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,452

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

161,054

 

Equity Investments in Associates and

   Joint Ventures

 

 

397,754

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

59,395,513

 

 

 

(59,793,267

)

 

 

-

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

9,869,201

 

 

 

1,806,613

 

 

 

294,461

 

 

 

7,392,310

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

19,362,585

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

3,259,794

 

 

 

645,580

 

 

 

89,798

 

 

 

591,975

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,587,147

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

868,671

 

 

 

99,867

 

 

 

4,437

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

972,975

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

982,502

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

982,502

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

798,367

 

 

 

283,307

 

 

 

18,669

 

 

 

1,724,421

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

2,824,769

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

404,106

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

203,909

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

608,015

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

511,338,168

 

 

 

52,713,479

 

 

 

3,357,705

 

 

 

65,772,126

 

 

 

(63,489,580

)

 

 

569,691,898

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

361,445,778

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,348,503

)

 

 

360,097,275

 

Liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss

 

 

2,685,471

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(540,807

)

 

 

2,144,664

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,948,559

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

40,976,456

 

 

 

23,419,918

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

36,311

 

 

 

(1,197,643

)

 

 

63,235,042

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank

   and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

17,490,792

 

 

 

1,955,180

 

 

 

56

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

19,446,028

 

Debt Securities Issued

 

 

15,527,765

 

 

 

14,979,260

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(523,372

)

 

 

29,983,653

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

5,442,791

 

 

 

38,137

 

 

 

203,147

 

 

 

(2,226,466

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,457,609

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

9,767,874

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,767,874

 

Provisions

 

 

1,248,998

 

 

 

64,997

 

 

 

78,328

 

 

 

57,000

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,449,323

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

289,493

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

106,709

 

 

 

1,507,444

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,903,646

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,146,515

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(43,295

)

 

 

1,103,220

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

8,709,240

 

 

 

2,122,183

 

 

 

420,273

 

 

 

246,661

 

 

 

(26,827

)

 

 

11,471,530

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

467,369,006

 

 

 

42,579,675

 

 

 

1,955,028

 

 

 

(379,050

)

 

 

(3,680,447

)

 

 

507,844,212

 

F-63


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

Banks

 

 

Regional

Credit Cards

 

 

Insurance

 

 

Other

Businesses

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Total as of

12.31.17

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

86,314,938

 

 

 

801,270

 

 

 

34,593

 

 

 

91,521

 

 

 

(197,441

)

 

 

87,044,881

 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

39,232,822

 

 

 

370,046

 

 

 

1,060,464

 

 

 

2,349,286

 

 

 

(264,821

)

 

 

42,747,797

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,183

 

 

 

(17,183

)

 

 

775,674

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

6,035,372

 

 

 

3,202,795

 

 

 

278,548

 

 

 

1,107,730

 

 

 

(285,189

)

 

 

10,339,256

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

237,690,649

 

 

 

47,421,104

 

 

 

20,631

 

 

 

19,375

 

 

 

(797,000

)

 

 

284,354,759

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

3,306,706

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

688,814

 

 

 

263,322

 

 

 

(76,305

)

 

 

4,182,537

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

9,339,920

 

 

 

6,868

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,346,788

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

 

1,856,223

 

 

 

30,227

 

 

 

126,227

 

 

 

(1,873,897

)

 

 

(4,040

)

 

 

134,740

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

111,923

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

111,923

 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

10,340,901

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

63,094,393

 

 

 

(73,435,294

)

 

 

-

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

16,203,040

 

 

 

1,724,338

 

 

 

271,373

 

 

 

10,264

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

18,209,015

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

1,098,519

 

 

 

532,156

 

 

 

94,136

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,724,914

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

705,405

 

 

 

52,556

 

 

 

4,609

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

762,570

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,021,703

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

3,097,128

 

 

 

286,272

 

 

 

5,308

 

 

 

355,961

 

 

 

(6,539

)

 

 

3,738,130

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

8,506,288

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,353,803

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,860,091

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

438,196,439

 

 

 

55,080,481

 

 

 

3,654,353

 

 

 

67,793,653

 

 

 

(75,083,812

)

 

 

489,641,114

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

296,596,968

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(229,612

)

 

 

296,367,356

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

863,514

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(17,183

)

 

 

846,331

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

31,345,885

 

 

 

24,409,668

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

291,371

 

 

 

(696,125

)

 

 

55,350,799

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other

   Financial Institutions

 

 

11,410,915

 

 

 

490,169

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(282,083

)

 

 

(699

)

 

 

11,618,302

 

Debt Securities

 

 

6,627,223

 

 

 

13,999,030

 

 

 

5,111

 

 

 

(11,074

)

 

 

(341,125

)

 

 

20,279,165

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

3,862,407

 

 

 

1,028,814

 

 

 

237,944

 

 

 

(1,550,636

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,578,529

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

7,128,356

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,128,356

 

Provisions

 

 

665,288

 

 

 

71,258

 

 

 

82,382

 

 

 

78,332

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

897,260

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

1,941,104

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

61,587

 

 

 

85,849

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,088,540

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,195,647

 

 

 

34,704

 

 

 

(34,704

)

 

 

1,195,647

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

15,177,593

 

 

 

2,230,117

 

 

 

402,746

 

 

 

2,642,765

 

 

 

689,233

 

 

 

21,142,454

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

377,289,312

 

 

 

42,229,056

 

 

 

1,985,417

 

 

 

1,289,228

 

 

 

(630,215

)

 

 

422,162,798

 

F-64


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Banks

 

 

Regional

Credit Cards

 

 

Insurance

 

 

Other

Businesses

 

 

Adjustments

 

 

Total as of

01.01.17

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

120,510,951

 

 

 

855,572

 

 

 

117,750

 

 

 

165,275

 

 

 

(465,569

)

 

 

121,183,979

 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

27,893,048

 

 

 

137,324

 

 

 

1,912,151

 

 

 

275,098

 

 

 

(1,399,877

)

 

 

28,817,744

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

229,436

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

229,436

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

3,118,715

 

 

 

3,919,010

 

 

 

231,213

 

 

 

613,070

 

 

 

(1,162,427

)

 

 

6,719,581

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

195,873,323

 

 

 

48,933,879

 

 

 

47,379

 

 

 

2,436,269

 

 

 

(1,587,429

)

 

 

245,703,421

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

1,860,045

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

381,793

 

 

 

942,014

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,183,852

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

9,870,728

 

 

 

224,692

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

173

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,095,593

 

Current Income Tax Assets

 

 

3,967

 

 

 

27,474

 

 

 

182,291

 

 

 

21,199

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

234,931

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

125,962

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

61,173

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

187,135

 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

 

9,614,493

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

27,115

 

 

 

2,325,267

 

 

 

(11,680,073

)

 

 

286,802

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

 

14,289,988

 

 

 

1,716,579

 

 

 

289,207

 

 

 

52,586

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

16,348,360

 

Intangible Assets

 

 

1,109,456

 

 

 

485,282

 

 

 

63,345

 

 

 

2,710

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,660,793

 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

942,720

 

 

 

64,865

 

 

 

27,675

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,035,260

 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

960,393

 

 

 

28,330

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

988,723

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

2,369,045

 

 

 

169,999

 

 

 

19,509

 

 

 

375,930

 

 

 

85,185

 

 

 

3,019,668

 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

 

 

10,593,323

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

67,191

 

 

 

258,602

 

 

 

10,919,116

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

397,462,480

 

 

 

57,412,531

 

 

 

4,297,011

 

 

 

7,393,960

 

 

 

(15,951,588

)

 

 

450,614,394

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

277,560,473

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(482,911

)

 

 

277,077,562

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

264,172

 

 

 

217,832

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,297

 

 

 

(200,917

)

 

 

290,384

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

3,030,473

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,030,473

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

31,465,537

 

 

 

25,149,569

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,354,339

 

 

 

(874,669

)

 

 

57,094,776

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and

   Other Financial Institutions

 

 

8,647,524

 

 

 

3,991,530

 

 

 

12,948

 

 

 

420,188

 

 

 

(355,045

)

 

 

12,717,145

 

Debt Securities

 

 

8,731,727

 

 

 

13,536,489

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

955,820

 

 

 

(1,375,576

)

 

 

21,848,460

 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

1,824,390

 

 

 

750,927

 

 

 

443,077

 

 

 

140,949

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,159,343

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

7,490,444

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,490,444

 

Provisions

 

 

467,831

 

 

 

89,496

 

 

 

54,048

 

 

 

97,838

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

709,213

 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 

 

1,667,167

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

51,870

 

 

 

124,560

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,843,597

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,229,435

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(75,273

)

 

 

1,154,162

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

15,379,938

 

 

 

2,299,474

 

 

 

522,863

 

 

 

547,281

 

 

 

(223,599

)

 

 

18,525,957

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

356,529,676

 

 

 

46,035,317

 

 

 

2,314,241

 

 

 

3,650,272

 

 

 

(3,587,990

)

 

 

404,941,516

 

   Banks   Ecosistema
Naranja X
   Insurance   Other
Businesses
   Adjustments  Total as of
12.31.19
 

ASSETS

           

Cash and Due from Banks

   175,814,936    5,618,935    103,152    963,415    (4,634,039  177,866,399 

Debt Securities at fair value through profit or loss

   89,441,583    —      49,837    70    (60,112  89,431,378 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   3,170,815    —      —      —      —     3,170,815 

Repurchase Transactions

   40,944,933    —      —      —      —     40,944,933 

Other Financial Assets

   7,780,625    6,186,615    435,406    467,944    (10,390  14,860,200 

Loans and Other Financing

   421,122,047    65,928,775    358,620    3,428,355    (2,693,645  488,144,152 

Other Debt Securities

   21,962,083    1,786,664    2,323,480    —      (178,791  25,893,436 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   15,713,219    9,617    555    2,200    (555  15,725,036 

Current Income Tax Assets

   —      20,983    —      34,158    —     55,141 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   6,200,459    —      —      —      —     6,200,459 

Equity Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

   419,309    —      —      —      (419,309  —   

Property, Plant and Equipment

   39,565,282    4,636,630    621,167    54,281    —     44,877,360 

Intangible Assets

   9,698,756    1,995,236    140,317    1,243,959    (1,243,960  11,834,308 

Deferred Income Tax Assets

   —      3,428,499    260,000    132,879    —     3,821,378 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

   —      —      1,608,517    —      —     1,608,517 

Other Non-financial Assets

   7,223,806    398,757    163,377    1,000,001    (2,953  8,782,988 

Non-current Assets Held for Sale

   53,106    —      —      —      —     53,106 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

   839,110,959    90,010,711    6,064,428    7,327,262    (9,243,754  933,269,606 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

LIABILITIES

            —   

Deposits

   541,621,151    —      —      —      (5,587,455  536,033,696 

Liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss

   1,936,133    —      —      —      —     1,936,133 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   1,199,533    —      —      —      —     1,199,533 

Other Financial Liabilities

   51,640,464    43,416,663    —      2,844,848    (748,351  97,153,624 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial

Institutions

   27,848,878    3,999,344    4,205    —      (916,266  30,936,161 

Debt Securities

   25,742,191    14,305,377    —      —      (238,902  39,808,666 

Current Income Tax Liabilities

   12,544,435    1,249,899    203,138    44,763    —     14,042,235 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   21,100,718    —      —      —      —     21,100,718 

Provisions

   3,379,110    147,522    174,984    38,118    —     3,739,734 

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

   2,577,307    —      324,818    118,429    —     3,020,554 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

   —      —      2,004,865    —      (5,457  1,999,408 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   18,421,066    3,721,626    644,329    536,361    (84,055  23,239,327 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

   708,010,986    66,840,431    3,356,339    3,582,519    (7,580,486  774,209,789 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

NOTE 46.45. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT AND RISK POLICIES

The tasks related to risk information and internal control of each of the companies controlled by Grupo Financiero Galicia are defined and carried out rigorously by each of them.

Apart from applicable local regulations, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A., in its capacity as a listed company in the United States of America, complies with the certification of its internal controls pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act (Sarbanes Oxley). Corporate risk management is monitored by the Audit Committee, which as well gathers and analyzes the information submitted by the main controlled companies.

As concerns risks, Banco Galicia embraces a policy that takes into consideration several aspects of the business and operations, abiding by the main guidelines of internationally accepted standards.

The specific function of the comprehensive management of Banco Galicia’s risks has been allocated to the Risk Division, guaranteeing its independence from the rest of the business areas since it directly reports to the Bank’s General Division and, at the same time, is involved in the decisions made by each area. In addition, the control and prevention of risks related to money laundering, funding of terrorist activities and other illegal activities are allocated to the Prevention of Asset Laundering Division, which reports to the Board of Directors. The aim of both divisions is to guarantee the Board of Directors is fully aware of the risks that the Bank is exposed to, and to design and propose policies and procedures necessary to identify, assess, follow up, control and mitigate such risks.

A Risk Appetite framework has been specified, which has risk acceptance levels, both on an individual and a consolidated basis. Metrics have been defined within such framework, which are monitored in order to detect situations that may affect the normal course of business, the noncompliance with the strategy and undesired results and/or situations of vulnerability in the face of changes in market conditions. The Risk and Capital Allocation Committee considers and controls the Bank’s risk profile through a risk appetite report and defines the actions to be carried out in case of potential deviations from the thresholds set.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Capital Management

The Company'sCompany’s goals are to generate returns to its shareholders, benefits to other groups of interest and keep the best capital structure. The latter will be given by the needs for investment in subsidiaries and new ventures, keeping the expected profitability levels and complying with the liquidity and solvency goals set.

F-65


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Banco Galicia'sGalicia’s subsidiary determines the minimum capital requirement for each risk, in accordance with Argentine Central Bank regulations. The capital risk management is cross-sectional with respect to the other risks. Senior management is responsible for monitoring, overseeing, adjusting and ensuring compliance with its stated goals concerning capital management.

The Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (Proceso de Evaluación de Suficiencia de Capital - PESC) (reflected in the Capital Adequacy Report - Report—IAC, as per its acronym in Spanish) enables to assess the relationship between own resources available and necessary resources to maintain an appropriate risk profile. This process also allows for the identification of both the economic capital needs and the sources to meet such needs.

To perform stress tests, four scenarios with different likelihood of occurrence are defined, which could affect the solvency and liquidity. The most-likelymost likely to occur scenarios are used in management stress testing and are referred to when defining Risk Appetite thresholds. The least-likely to occur or least-severe scenarios are used in developing the Recovery Plan, which specifies the protocol defined for situations or events that may compromise the Bank'sBank’s operational capacity.

As of December 31, 20182020, and December 31, 2017,2019, Banco Galicia complied with the minimum capital requirement established by the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

Computable Regulatory Capital (R.P.C.,(RPC, as per the initials in Spanish) is made up of Core Capital and Supplementary Capital. Banco Galicia'sGalicia’s balance for such items as of December 31, 20182020 and December 31, 20172019 is as follows:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Core Capital

 

 

36,584,326

 

 

 

22,581,424

 

Tier 1 Common Capital

 

 

41,863,969

 

 

 

26,244,839

 

(Deductible Items)

 

 

(5,279,643

)

 

 

(3,663,415

)

Additional Tier 1 Capital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplementary Capital

 

 

12,745,132

 

 

 

6,947,945

 

Tier 2 Capital

 

 

12,745,132

 

 

 

6,947,945

 

(Deductible Items)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Computable Regulatory Capital (R.P.C.)

 

 

49,329,458

 

 

 

29,529,369

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Basic Shareholders´ Equity

   162,178,965    74,314,620 

(Deductible Items)

   (32,594,504   (12,922,467

Equity Tier 1

   129,584,461    61,392,153 

Complementing shareholders’ Equity

   27,477,066    19,392,341 

Equity Tier 2

   27,477,066    19,392,341 

Regulatory Capital (RPC)

   157,061,527    80,784,494 

The breakdown of the minimum capital requirement determined for the Group is shown below:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Credit Risk

 

 

22,170,572

 

 

 

17,263,077

 

Market Risk

 

 

969,226

 

 

 

1,126,159

 

Operational Risk

 

 

4,023,443

 

 

 

4,220,503

 

Minimum Capital Requirement

 

 

27,163,241

 

 

 

22,609,739

 

Paid-in

 

 

49,329,458

 

 

 

29,529,369

 

Excess

 

 

22,166,217

 

 

 

6,919,630

 

Financial Risks

Financial risk is a phenomenon inherent to the financial brokerage activity. The exposure to the different financial risk factors is a natural circumstance that cannot be completely avoided without affecting the Group’s long-term economic viability. However, the lack of management with regard to risk exposures is one of the most significant short-term threats. Risk factors need to be identified and managed within a specific policy framework that envisages the profile and the level of risk it has been decided to take to achieve long-term strategic goals.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Credit Risk

   42,457,859    29,148,582 

Market Risk

1,419,264904,939

The "price risk" is the possibility of incurring losses as a consequence of the variation of the market price of financial assets whose value is subject to negotiation. Financial assets subject to "trading" or allocated to "own positions"Operational Risk

12,192,0787,608,102

Minimum Capital Requirement

56,069,20137,661,623

Integration

157,061,52780,784,494

Excess

100,992,32643,122,871

Financial Risks

Financial risk is a phenomenon inherent to the financial brokerage activity. The exposure to the different financial risk factors is a natural circumstance that cannot be completely avoided without affecting the Group’s long-term economic viability. However, the lack of management regarding risk exposures is one of the most significant short-term threats. Risk factors need to be identified and managed within a specific policy framework that envisages the profile and the level of risk it has been decided to take to achieve long-term strategic goals.

Market Risk

The “price risk” is the possibility of incurring losses as a consequence of the variation of the market price of financial assets whose value is subject to negotiation. Financial assets subject to “trading” or allocated to “own positions” will be government and private debt securities, shares, currencies, derivatives and debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank.

Brokerage/trading transactions that are allowed and regulated by the Policy are as follows:

-

Brokerage of Government and Provincial Securities.

-

Brokerage of Currencies on the Spot and Futures Markets

-

Brokerage of Interest Rate Derivatives. Interest Rate Futures and Interest Rate Swaps.

-

Brokerage of Debt Instruments Issued by the Argentine Central Bank.

-

Brokerage of Third-party Debt securities.

-

Brokerage of Shares.

F-66


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the fiscal year 2018, the following limits were established, within which the estimated risk for each type of instrument described above should be classified:

Risk

 

Policy on Limits

Currency

 

$

78

 

 

million

Fixed-Income

 

$

61

 

 

million

Interest Rate Derivatives

 

$

110

 

 

million

Variable Income

 

$

1

 

 

million

 

The "price risk" (market) is daily managed according to the strategy approved, the purpose of which is to keep the Group present in the different currencies, variable- and fixed-income and derivatives markets, while obtaining the maximum return as possible on brokerage, without exposing the latter to excessive risk levels. Finally, the designed policy contributes to providing transparency and facilitates the perception of the risk levels to which it is exposed. In order to measure and monitor risks derived from the variation in the price of financial instruments that form the trading or brokerage securities portfolio, a model known as “Value at Risk” (also known as "VaR") is used. This model determines the possible loss that could be generated by different financial instruments at each time under the following critical parameters.

Currency Risk

The Group's exposure to the foreign exchange risk as of year-end by type of currency is shown below:

Currency

 

Balances as of 12.31.18

 

Currency

 

Monetary

Financial

Assets

 

 

Monetary

Financial

Liabilities

 

 

Derivatives

 

 

Net Position

 

U.S. Dollar

 

 

196,546

 

 

 

(199,229

)

 

 

101

 

 

 

(2,582

)

Euro

 

 

(557

)

 

 

1,998

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,441

 

Canadian Dollar

 

 

(9

)

 

 

42

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

33

 

Real

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Swiss Franc

 

 

(13

)

 

 

21

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

8

 

Others

 

 

(2

)

 

 

49

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

47

 

Total

 

 

195,965

 

 

 

(197,119

)

 

 

101

 

 

 

(1,053

)

Currency

 

Balances as of 12.31.17

 

Currency

 

Monetary

Financial

Assets

 

 

Monetary

Financial

Liabilities

 

 

Derivatives

 

 

Net Position

 

U.S. Dollar

 

 

126,277

 

 

 

(120,163

)

 

 

(4,155

)

 

 

1,959

 

Euro

 

 

793

 

 

 

(208

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

585

 

Canadian Dollar

 

 

30

 

 

 

(6

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

24

 

Real

 

 

18

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

18

 

Swiss Franc

 

 

16

 

 

 

(9

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

7

 

Others

 

 

32

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

31

 

Total

 

 

127,166

 

 

 

(120,387

)

 

 

(4,155

)

 

 

2,624

 

Currency

 

Change

 

 

Balances as of 12.31.18

 

 

Balances as of 12.31.17

 

Currency

 

Change

 

 

Income

(Loss)

 

 

Shareholders'

Equity

 

 

Income

(Loss)

 

 

Shareholders'

Equity

 

U.S. Dollar

 

 

10

%

 

 

(258

)

 

 

(2,848

)

 

 

196

 

 

 

2,154

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

258

 

 

 

(2,323

)

 

 

(196

)

 

 

1,763

 

Euro

 

 

10

%

 

 

143

 

 

 

1,575

 

 

 

59

 

 

 

644

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

(143

)

 

 

1,289

 

 

 

(59

)

 

 

527

 

Canadian Dollar

 

 

10

%

 

 

3

 

 

 

366

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

27

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

(3

)

 

 

30

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

21

 

Real

 

 

10

%

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

21

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

16

 

Swiss Franc

 

 

10

%

 

 

1

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

(1

)

 

 

7

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

6

 

Others

 

 

10

%

 

 

5

 

 

 

53

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

35

 

 

 

 

-10

%

 

 

(5

)

 

 

43

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

30

 

Interest Rate Risk

The different sensitivity of assets and liabilities to changes in "market interest rates" exposes the Group to the "interest rate risk". It is the risk that the financial margin and the economic value of equity may vary as a consequence of fluctuations in market interest rates. The magnitude of such variation is associated with the sensitivity to interest rates of the structure of the Group's assets and liabilities.

This risk factor (the change in interest rates) has an impact on two key variables: the "Net Financial Income (Expense)" and the "Present Value of Shareholders' Equity".

F-67


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These methodologies imply a "short-term" approach for which a "base scenario" is subject to an increase in "interest rates" estimating the variation in "Financial Income (Expense)". Caps on such changes in variables subject to control are fixed. As regards the "long-term" approach, statistical interest rate simulations are made and a "critical" scenario results from the interest rate risk exposure presented by the financial statements structure. The economic capital arises from the resulting difference between the "critical" scenario and the market value as per the financial statements.

The Group's exposure to the interest rate risk is detailed below. This table shows the residual value of assets and liabilities, classified by the sooner of the interest renegotiation date or the maturity date.

 

 

Term (in Days)

 

 

Total

 

Assets and Liabilities at Variable Rate

 

Up to 30

days

 

 

30 to 90

 

 

90 to 180

 

 

180 to 365

 

 

Over 365

 

 

Total

 

As of 12.31.18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Financial Assets

 

 

205,717,873

 

 

 

31,633,572

 

 

 

33,104,131

 

 

 

43,318,473

 

 

 

168,405,494

 

 

 

482,179,543

 

Total Financial Liabilities

 

 

317,505,256

 

 

 

27,996,087

 

 

 

7,287,605

 

 

 

4,351,288

 

 

 

90,658,702

 

 

 

447,798,938

 

Net Amount

 

 

(111,787,383

)

 

 

3,637,485

 

 

 

25,816,526

 

 

 

38,967,185

 

 

 

77,746,792

 

 

 

34,380,605

 

As of 12.31.17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Financial Assets

 

 

229,078,934

 

 

 

48,709,932

 

 

 

38,560,371

 

 

 

41,915,133

 

 

 

22,166,248

 

 

 

380,430,618

 

Total Financial Liabilities

 

 

247,229,636

 

 

 

30,430,892

 

 

 

8,610,522

 

 

 

7,702,696

 

 

 

69,461,219

 

 

 

363,434,965

 

Net Amount

 

 

(18,150,702

)

 

 

18,279,040

 

 

 

29,949,849

 

 

 

34,212,437

 

 

 

(47,294,971

)

 

 

16,995,653

 

The table below shows the sensitivity to potential additional changes in interest rates in the next fiscal year, taking into account the breakdown as of December 31, 2018. The percentage change budgeted by the Group for fiscal year 2018 was determined considering 100 bps and changes are considered reasonably possible on the basis on an observation of market conditions.

 

 

Additional

Changes to the

Interest Rate

 

Increase/(Decrease)

in Income before

Income Tax in

Pesos

 

 

Increase/(Decrease)

in Shareholders’

Equity in Pesos

 

Decrease in Interest Rate

 

-100 bps

 

 

(144,653

)

 

 

-0.4

%

Increase in Interest Rate

 

+100 bps

 

 

144,653

 

 

 

0.4

%

Liquidity Risk

It contemplates the risk that the Group is unable to offset or liquidate a position at market value because:

-

Brokerage of Currencies on the Spot and Futures Markets.

the assets that are part thereof do not have a sufficient secondary market; or

-

market changes.

In measuring and daily following up the "stock liquidity" an internal model is used, which contemplates the characteristics of behavior of the Group's main funding sources. Based on the Group's experience in connection with the changes in deposits and other liabilities, this model determines the "liquidity requirements" applied to liabilities subject to the policy and give rise to the "Management Liquidity Requirement". In determining these liquid resources, the remaining term of liabilities is also contemplated, as well as the currency in which they are denominated. The resulting liquidity requirement is allocated to "eligible assets" set by the policy. The management liquidity requirement, along with the legal minimum cash requirements, are part of the total liquidity available.

Daily liquidity management is supplemented by the estimated available funds or needs for the day, considering the opening balance of Argentine Central Bank's account, deducting the daily minimum requirement and including the main movements for the day. The latter results in the overestimated/underestimated balance that will be taken into account by operators in order to place funds or meet the financing needs.

The monthly liquidity follow-up and control from the "flow" standpoint, called "liquidity mismatch/liquidity gap", are performed by estimating the accumulated mismatches within the first year as a percentage of total liabilities. The gap methodology used (contractual gaps) is consistent with the best international practices in the field.

In addition, the concentration of deposits is followed up and measured. In order to mitigate this risk factor, the policy designed restricts the involvement of two groups of customers to the total deposits: the first 10 customers and second 50 customers.

F-68


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The table below shows an analysis of maturities of assets and liabilities, determined on the basis of the remaining period as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, based on undiscounted cash flows:

 

 

Less than 1

Month

 

 

1 to 6

Months

 

 

6 to 12

Months

 

 

12 Months

to 5 Years

 

 

More than

5 Years

 

 

Total as of

12.31.18

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt Securities measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

76,849,406

 

 

 

249,268

 

 

 

373,823

 

 

 

1,035,345

 

 

 

157,067

 

 

 

78,664,909

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

2,112,250

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,112,250

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

9,056,190

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,056,190

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

93,109,786

 

 

 

102,383,777

 

 

 

55,974,479

 

 

 

65,838,369

 

 

 

9,507,527

 

 

 

326,813,938

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

14,491,625

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,491,625

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

10,817,492

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,817,492

 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

161,064

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

161,064

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

334,200,194

 

 

 

29,585,189

 

 

 

3,188,378

 

 

 

76,741

 

 

 

36

 

 

 

367,050,538

 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

2,144,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,144,664

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,948,559

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

63,065,272

 

 

 

27,072

 

 

 

33,365

 

 

 

146,180

 

 

 

7,145

 

 

 

63,279,034

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

7,013,910

 

 

 

8,149,083

 

 

 

3,181,270

 

 

 

7,455,499

 

 

 

72,524

 

 

 

25,872,286

 

Debt Securities

 

 

1,301,031

 

 

 

7,657,224

 

 

 

13,262,785

 

 

 

26,226,582

 

 

 

1,260,277

 

 

 

49,707,899

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

384,557

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

384,557

 

 

 

3,378,758

 

 

 

11,422,006

 

 

 

15,569,878

 

 

 

Less than 1

Month

 

 

1 to 6

Months

 

 

6 to 12

Months

 

 

12 Months

to 5 Years

 

 

More than

5 Years

 

 

Total as of

12.31.17

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt Securities measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

40,822,900

 

 

 

316,471

 

 

 

156,817

 

 

 

1,423,261

 

 

 

197,466

 

 

 

42,916,915

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

775,674

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

775,674

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

14,286,336

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,286,336

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

10,214,745

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,214,745

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

94,765,477

 

 

 

100,466,108

 

 

 

50,269,774

 

 

 

66,942,156

 

 

 

8,623,630

 

 

 

321,067,145

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

3,999,205

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,999,205

 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

9,346,788

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,346,788

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

269,207,286

 

 

 

24,546,832

 

 

 

7,021,479

 

 

 

145,716

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

300,921,313

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

846,331

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

846,331

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,670,059

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,670,059

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

57,997,972

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

57,997,972

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

14,142,054

 

 

 

17,263,524

 

 

 

3,285,039

 

 

 

6,949,390

 

 

 

202,647

 

 

 

41,842,654

 

Debt Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,620,071

 

 

 

1,564,903

 

 

 

22,520,599

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,705,573

 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

257,269

 

 

 

7,163,107

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,420,376

 

Credit Risk

Credit risk arises from the possibility of suffering losses due to a debtor’s or counterparty’s noncompliance with its contractual obligations. It is the one that requires the greatest need for capital, including that arising from the risk of individual and sectorial concentration, which represents supplementary approximations to the intrinsic credit risk.

Accordingly, the Group uses credit assessment and risk monitoring tools that allow the entity to manage risks in a streamlined and controlled manner and that foster the adequate diversification of portfolios, both on an individual basis and by economic sector, thus controlling its exposure to potential risks.

F-69


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The credit quality of debt securities as of December 31, 2018 is as follows:

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rating

 

Government

Bonds

 

 

Provincial

Bonds

 

 

Autonomous

City of Buenos

Aires Bonds

 

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

Argentine

Central

Bank's Bills

 

 

Private

Securities

 

 

Total

 

AAA

 

 

1,473,352

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,116,944

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

78,658

 

 

 

3,668,954

 

Aaa

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

36,622

 

 

 

36,622

 

Aaa.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

196,475

 

 

 

196,475

 

AA+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

37,166

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

20,875

 

 

 

58,041

 

AA

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

283,224

 

 

 

283,224

 

AA(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

11,161

 

 

 

11,161

 

raAA

 

 

-

 

 

 

447,942

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

447,942

 

AA-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

276

 

 

 

276

 

A+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,071

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

141,125

 

 

 

142,196

 

A1.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,063

 

 

 

14,063

 

A

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

70,350

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,047

 

 

 

73,397

 

A(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

29,450

 

 

 

29,450

 

A-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

41,041

 

 

 

41,041

 

A3.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

146,997

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

146,997

 

BBB+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,326

 

 

 

1,326

 

Baa1.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,073

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,775

 

 

 

14,848

 

BBB

 

 

11,544

 

 

 

9,110

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,956

 

 

 

47,610

 

BBB(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

31,173

 

 

 

31,173

 

BBB-

 

 

-

 

 

 

266,229

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

266,229

 

Baa3.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

113,517

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

113,517

 

B+

 

 

511

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

511

 

B-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,098

 

 

 

3,098

 

CCC(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

209,248

 

 

 

209,248

 

No Rating

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

70,097,764

 

Total

 

 

1,485,407

 

 

 

983,795

 

 

 

42,239

 

 

 

2,188,365

 

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

1,137,593

 

 

 

75,935,163

 

The credit quality of debt securities as of December 31, 2017

Brokerage of Interest Rate Derivatives. Interest Rate Futures and Interest Rate Swaps.

Brokerage of Debt Instruments Issued by the Argentine Central Bank.

Brokerage of Third-party Debt securities.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Brokerage of Shares.

For the fiscal year 2020, a unified limit was set for all operations of $4,250,000.

The “price risk” (market) is daily managed according to the strategy approved, the purpose of which is to keep the Group present in the different currencies, variable- and fixed-income and derivatives markets, while obtaining the maximum return as possible on brokerage, without exposing the latter to excessive risk levels. Finally, the designed policy contributes to providing transparency and facilitates the perception of the risk levels to which it is exposed. In order to measure and monitor risks derived from the variation in the price of financial instruments that form the trading or brokerage securities portfolio, a model known as “Value at Risk” (also known as “VaR”) is used. This model determines the possible loss that could be generated by different financial instruments at each time under the following critical parameters.

Currency Risk

The Group’s exposure to the foreign exchange risk as of year-end by type of currency is shown below:

   Balances as of 12.31.20 

Currency

  Monetary
Financial
Assets
   Monetary
Financial
Liabilities
   Derivatives   Net Position 

US Dollar

   212,122    (210,940   —      1,182 

Euro

   4,401    (802   —      3,599 

Canadian Dollar

   134    (4   —      130 

Real

   34    —      —      34 

Swiss Franc

   52    (30   —      22 

Others

   103    (3   —      100 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   216,846    (211,779   —      5,067 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Balances as of 12.31.19 

Currency

  Monetary
Financial
Assets
   Monetary
Financial
Liabilities
   Derivatives   Net Position 

US Dollar

   265,631    (267,422   30    (1,761

Euro

   3,105    (399   —      2,706 

Canadian Dollar

   116    (5   —      111 

Real

   1    —      —      1 

Swiss Franc

   44    (23   —      21 

Others

   103    (5   —      98 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   269,000    (267,854   30    1,176 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

      Balances as of 12.31.20   Balances as of 12.31.19 

Currency

  Change  Income
(Loss)
  Shareholders’
Equity
   Income
(Loss)
  Shareholders’
Equity
 

US Dollar

   10  118   1,300    176   (1,937
   -10  (118  1,064    (176  (1,585

Euro

   10  360   3,959    271   2,977 
   -10  (360  3,239    (271  2,436 

Canadian Dollar

   10  13   143    11   121 
   -10  (13  117    (11  99 

Real

   10  3   37    —     1 
   -10  (3  31    —     1 

Swiss Franc

   10  2   24    1   22 
   -10  (2  20    (1  18 

Others

   10  10   110    10   108 
   -10  (10  90    (10  88 

Interest Rate Risk

The different sensitivity of assets and liabilities to changes in “market interest rates” exposes the Group to the “interest rate risk”. It is the risk that the financial margin and the economic value of equity may vary as a consequence of fluctuations in market interest rates. The magnitude of such variation is associated with the sensitivity to interest rates of the structure of the Group’s assets and liabilities.

This risk factor (the change in interest rates) has an impact on two key variables: the “Net Financial Income (Expense)” and the “Present Value of Shareholders’ Equity”.

These methodologies imply a “short-term” approach for which a “base scenario” is subject to an increase in “interest rates” estimating the variation in “Financial Income (Expense)”. Caps on such changes in variables subject to control are fixed. As regards the “long-term” approach, statistical interest rate simulations are made and a “critical” scenario

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

results from the interest rate risk exposure presented by the financial statements structure. The economic capital arises from the resulting difference between the “critical” scenario and the market value as per the financial statements.

The Group’s exposure to the interest rate risk is detailed below. This table shows the residual value of assets and liabilities, classified by the sooner of the interest renegotiation date or the maturity date.

   Term (in Days)     

Assets and Liabilities at Variable Rate

  Up to 30  From 30 to
90
   From 90 to
180
   From 180 to
365
   More than
365
   Total 

As of 12.31.20

           

Total Financial Assets

   329,561,051   81,048,347    73,404,578    122,032,475    331,583,426    937,629,877 

Total Financial Liabilities

   525,873,217   66,622,888    17,447,849    8,728,360    204,482,905    823,155,219 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Amount

   (196,312,166  14,425,459    55,956,729    113,304,115    127,100,521    114,474,658 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of 12.31.19

           

Total Financial Assets

   274,590,418   69,553,555    69,742,708    61,211,792    340,621,292    815,719,765 

Total Financial Liabilities

   377,563,393   61,431,217    33,503,067    4,678,139    212,118,123    689,293,939 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Amount

   (102,972,975  8,122,338    36,239,641    56,533,653    128,503,169    126,425,826 
  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The table below shows the sensitivity to potential additional changes in interest rates in the next fiscal year, considering the breakdown as of December 31, 2020. The percentage change budgeted by the Group for fiscal year 2020 was determined considering 100 bps and changes are considered reasonably possible on the basis on an observation of market conditions.

   Additional
Changes to the
Interest Rate
   Increase/(Decrease)
in Income before
Income Tax in
Pesos
   Increase/(Decrease)
in Shareholders’
Equity in %
 

Decrease in Interest Rate

   -100 pb    (1,130,532   -1

Increase in Interest Rate

   +100 pb    1,130,532    1

Liquidity Risk

It contemplates the risk that the Group is unable to offset or liquidate a position at market value because:

the assets that are part thereof do not have a sufficient secondary market; or

market changes.

In measuring and daily following up the “stock liquidity” an internal model is used, which contemplates the characteristics of behavior of the Group’s main funding sources. Based on the Group’s experience in connection with the changes in deposits and other liabilities, this model determines the “liquidity requirements” applied to liabilities subject to the policy and give rise to the “Management Liquidity Requirement”. In determining these liquid resources, the remaining term of liabilities is also contemplated, as well as the currency in which they are denominated. The resulting liquidity requirement is allocated to “eligible assets” set by the policy. The management liquidity requirement, along with the legal minimum cash requirements, are part of the total liquidity available.

Daily liquidity management is supplemented by the estimated available funds or needs for the day, considering the opening balance of Argentine Central Bank’s account, deducting the daily minimum requirement and including the main movements for the day. The latter results in the overestimated/underestimated balance that will be considered by operators in order to place funds or meet the financing needs.

The monthly liquidity follow-up and control from the “flow” standpoint, called “liquidity mismatch/liquidity gap”, are performed by estimating the accumulated mismatches within the first year as a percentage of total liabilities. The gap methodology used (contractual gaps) is consistent with the best international practices in the field.

In addition, the concentration of deposits is followed up and measured. In order to mitigate this risk factor, the policy designed restricts the involvement of two groups of customers to the total deposits: the first 10 customers and second 50 customers.

The table below shows an analysis of maturities of assets and liabilities, determined based on the remaining period as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, based on undiscounted cash flows:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Less than 1
Month
   1 to 6
Months
   6 to 12
Months
   12 Months
to 5 Years
   More than
5 Years
   Total as of
12.31.20
 

Assets

            

Debt Securities measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   152,729,877    564,114    3,180,660    432,222    —      156,906,873 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   547,929    —      —      —      —      547,929 

Repurchase Transactions

   61,778,505    —      —      —      —      61,778,505 

Other Financial Assets

   7,677,635    100,805    122,168    3,065,831    —      10,966,439 

Loans and Other Financing

   165,672,357    204,326,574    135,444,263    93,566,134    30,542,150    629,551,478 

Other Debt Securities

   25,403,983    —      —      —      —      25,403,983 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   18,717,443    —      —      —      —      18,717,443 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   3,745,893    —      —      —      —      3,745,893 

Liabilities

            

Deposits

   636,596,852    45,007,577    2,563,927    122,377    27    684,290,760 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

   57,450    —      —      —      —      57,450 

Other Financial Liabilities

   93,004,399    24,479    27,441    80,500    —      93,136,819 

Lease liabilities

   154,855    724,867    795,298    3,700,393    1,376,069    6,751,482 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   2,607,987    3,290,896    6,137,695    3,736,864    —      15,773,442 

Debt Securities

   736,438    6,156,557    8,055,337    6,349,253    —      21,297,585 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   855,858    —      855,858    7,559,716    21,871,443    31,142,875 

   Less than 1
Month
   1 to 6
Months
   6 to 12
Months
   12 Months
to 5 Years
   More than
5 Years
   Total as of
12.31.19
 

Assets

            

Debt Securities measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   88,378,198    1,197,484    19,642    212,016    7,157    89,814,497 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   1,903,979    —      —      —      —      1,903,979 

Repurchase Transactions

   41,828,680    —      —      —      —      41,828,680 

Other Financial Assets

   11,221,494    —      —      —      —      11,221,494 

Loans and Other Financing

   180,043,930    178,211,585    80,880,191    131,022,366    35,994,787    606,152,859 

Other Debt Securities

   28,143,083    —      —      —      —      28,143,083 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   15,725,036    —      —      —      —      15,725,036 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   3,400,065    —      —      —      —      3,400,065 

Liabilities

            

Deposits

   488,012,093    56,841,558    2,974,312    105,337    44    547,933,344 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

   1,936,133    —      —      —      —      1,936,133 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   1,199,533    —      —      —      —      1,199,533 

Other Financial Liabilities

   92,068,438    —      —      —      —      92,068,438 

Lease Liabilities

   83,613    434,437    542,376    2,630,481    1,439,080    5,129,987 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   5,064,925    14,694,200    5,828,763    8,446,270    —      34,034,158 

Debt Securities

   4,721,798    24,857,077    5,653,122    13,796,603    930,705    49,959,305 

Subordinated Debt Securities

   827,691    —      827,691    7,279,079    22,997,121    31,931,582 

Credit Risk

Credit risk arises from the possibility of suffering losses due to a debtor’s or counterparty’s noncompliance with its contractual obligations. It is the one that requires the greatest need for capital, including that arising from the risk of individual and sectorial concentration, which represents supplementary approximations to the intrinsic credit risk.

Accordingly, the Group uses credit assessment and risk monitoring tools that allow the entity to manage risks in a streamlined and controlled manner and that foster the adequate diversification of portfolios, both on an individual basis and by economic sector, thus controlling its exposure to potential risks.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The credit quality of debt securities as of December 31, 2020 is as follows:

   Government Securities             

Rating

  Government
Bonds
   Provincial
Bonds
   Autonomous
City of
Buenos

Aires Bonds
   Treasury
Bills
   Argentine
Central
Bank’s Bills
   Private
Securities
   Total as of
12.31.20
 

AAA

   2,335,283    —      —      16,964,950    —      703,421    20,003,654 

AA+

   —      —      90,199    —      —      296    90,495 

AA

   —      —      —      —      —      56,802    56,802 

Aa2

   —      —      —      —      —      32,226    32,226 

AA-

   47,643    —      —      —      —      894,582    942,225 

A+

   —      —      —      —      —      1,263    1,263 

A1

   —      —      —      —      —      180,683    180,683 

A1+

   —      —      —      —      —      820,913    820,913 

A

   —      —      —      —      —      21,481    21,481 

A2

   —      —      —      —      —      108    108 

A-

   —      —      —      —      —      40,605    40,605 

A3

   —      200,768    —      —      —      —      200,768 

Baa1

   —      —      1,000    —      —      29,226    30,226 

Baa3

   —      —      —      —      —      13,293    13,293 

B

   —      539,371    —      —      —      —      539,371 

CCC

   4,103,429    —      —      —      —      —      4,103,429 

C

   —      —      —      —      128,324,920    17,098    128,342,018 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   6,486,355    740,139    91,199    16,964,950    128,324,920    2,811,997    155,419,560 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The credit quality of debt securities as of December 31, 2019 is as follows:

   Government Securities             

Rating

  Government
Bonds
   Provincial
Bonds
   Autonomous
City of
Buenos

Aires Bonds
   Treasury
Bills
   Argentine
Central
Bank’s Bills
   Private
Securities
   Total as of
12.31.19
 

AAA

   422,241    —      —      8,485,627    —      —      8,907,868 

AA+

   —      —      60,303    —      —      7,229    67,532 

AA

   —      —      —      —      —      130,577    130,577 

AA-

   —      —      —      —      —      14,920    14,920 

A+

   —      —      —      —      —      175,635    175,635 

A1+

   —      —      —      —      —      639,014    639,014 

A-

   —      —      —      —      —      48,862    48,862 

A3

   —      —      —      —      —      102,484    102,484 

Baa1

   —      —      103,666    —      —      —      103,666 

BBB

   12,875    —      —      —      —      20,580    33,455 

B-

   —      —      —      —      —      6,336    6,336 

CC

   36,962    —      —      —      79,153,628    —      79,190,590 

C

   —      —      —      —      —      10,439    10,439 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   472,078    —      163,969    8,485,627    79,153,628    1,156,076    89,431,378 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Summary of credit risk

The following disclosures present the gross carrying amount of financial instruments to which the impairment requirements in IFRS 9 are applied and the associated allowance for loan losses.

Those credits that do not have reasonable expectations of recovering the contractual cash flows are eliminated from the Group’s assets and are recognized in “Off-balance Items”.

The credit quality related to loans granted is detailed in Schedule B.

The breakdown by term of “Net Loans and Other Financing” is detailed in Schedule D.

Impairment of financial assets

The “Expected Credit Loss” (“ECL”) model applies to financial assets which are valued at both amortized cost and fair value through OCI.

The standard establishes three categories to classify financial instruments, primarily considering the credit risk evolution over time. Stage 1 includes financial assets with normal or no significant risk associated; Stage 2 includes financial assets for which a significant increase in credit risk (“SICR”) has been identified but they are not yet deemed to be credit-impaired and Stage 3 comprises financial assets which are impaired and/or subject to serious risk of impairment.

To calculate the provisions for credit impairment risk, IFRS 9 differentiates between each of the three stages. The resulting concepts are explained as follows:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Expected Credit Losses within a 12-month period: possible events of default within the 12 months following the date of the presentation of financial statements. Assets included in Stage 1 have their ECL measured at 12-month ECL.

Lifetime Expected Credit Losses: ECL during the active period of the financial asset, which results of calculating the probability of impairment of an asset throughout its duration, up until its maturity. Instruments in Stage 2 or 3 have their ECL measured based on lifetime ECL.

A pervasive concept in measuring ECL in accordance with IFRS 9 is that it should consider forward looking information. The Group has included below an explanation on how it has incorporated this in its ECL models.

Grouping of instruments for losses measured on a collective basis

For expected credit loss provisions modelled on a collective basis, a grouping of exposures is performed based on shared risks characteristics, such that risk exposures within group are homogeneous. In performing this grouping, there must be sufficient information for the group to be statistically credible. Where sufficient information is not available internally, the Group has considered benchmarking internal/external supplementary data to use for modelling purposes. The Group has identified four groupings: Retail, Retail-like, Wholesale and Naranja, amongst these four segments the Group estimates parameters in a more granular way based on the shared risk characteristics.

Stage classification

Each subsidiary of Grupo Galicia classifies financial instruments subject to impairment under IFRS 9 in stages, as follows:

 

 

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rating

 

Government

Bonds

 

 

Provincial

Bonds

 

 

Autonomous

City of Buenos

Aires Bonds

 

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

Argentine

Central

Bank's Bills

 

 

Private

Securities

 

 

Total

 

AAA

 

 

1,252,988

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,848,448

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

224,986

 

 

 

9,326,422

 

AAA(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

33,736

 

 

 

33,736

 

Aaa

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

565

 

 

 

565

 

raAAA

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

37,322

 

 

 

37,322

 

Aaa.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

117,712

 

 

 

117,712

 

AA+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,030,605

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

122,603

 

 

 

1,153,208

 

AA

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

864,685

 

 

 

864,685

 

AA(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

54,610

 

 

 

54,610

 

Aa2.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

56,894

 

 

 

56,894

 

AA-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

35,488

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

274,928

 

 

 

310,416

 

Aa3.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,338

 

 

 

13,338

 

A+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

188,641

 

 

 

188,641

 

A1.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,456

 

 

 

21,456

 

A

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,040

 

 

 

24,040

 

A(arg)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

104,592

 

 

 

104,592

 

A2.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,783

 

 

 

3,783

 

A-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

55,729

 

 

 

55,729

 

A3.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

279,262

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

279,262

 

BBB+

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,483

 

 

 

4,483

 

Baa1.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

65,677

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

216,292

 

 

 

281,969

 

BBB

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,104

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,104

 

raBBB

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,506

 

 

 

1,506

 

Baa2.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,140

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,140

 

BBB-

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,289,436

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,289,436

 

Baa3.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,096,012

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,096,012

 

B2.ar

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,348

 

 

 

5,348

 

B-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

29,711

 

 

 

29,711

 

No Rating

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,367,677

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,367,677

 

Total

 

 

1,252,988

 

 

 

3,689,954

 

 

 

1,131,770

 

 

 

7,848,448

 

 

 

26,367,677

 

 

 

2,456,960

 

 

 

42,747,797

 

F-70


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SummaryStage 1: in the case of credit risk

The following disclosure presents the gross carrying/nominal amount of financial instrumentsretail portfolios, it includes every operation up to which the impairment requirements in IFRS 9 are applied and the associated allowance for ECL.

Loans classified as uncollectible for 7 months are eliminated from the Group’s assets and are recognized in "Off-Balance Sheet Items".

The credit quality related to loans granted is detailed in Schedule B.

The breakdown by term of "Net Loans and Other Financing" is detailed in Schedule D.

Impairment of financial assets

The “Expected Credit Loss” (“ECL”) model applies to financial assets which are valued at both amortized cost and fair value through OCI.

The standard establishes three categories to classify financial instruments, primarily taking into account the credit risk evolution over time. Stage 1 includes financial assets with normal or no significant risk associated; Stage 2 includes financial assets for which a significant increase in credit risk (“SICR”) has been identified but they are not yet deemed to be credit-impaired and Stage 3 comprises financial assets which are impaired and/or subject to serious risk of impairment.

To calculate the provisions for credit impairment risk, IFRS 9 differentiates between each of the three stages. The resulting concepts are explained as follows:

-

Expected Credit Losses within a 12-month period: possible events of default within the 12 months following the date of the presentation of financial statements. Assets included in Stage 1 have their ECL measured at 12 month ECL.

-

Lifetime Expected Credit Losses: ECL during the active period of the financial asset, which results of calculating the probability of impairment of an asset throughout its duration, up until its maturity. Instruments in Stage 2 or 3 have their ECL measured based on lifetime ECL.

A pervasive concept in measuring ECL in accordance with IFRS 9 is that it should consider forward looking information. The Group has included below an explanation on how it has incorporated this in its ECL models.

Grouping of instruments for losses measured on a collective basis

For expected credit loss provisions modelled on a collective basis, a grouping of exposures is performed on the basis of shared risks characteristics, such that risk exposures within group are homogeneous. In performing this grouping, there must be sufficient information for the group to be statistically credible. Where sufficient information is not available internally, the Group has considered benchmarking internal/external supplementary data to use for modelling purposes. The Group has identified four groupings: Retail, Retail-like, Wholesale and Tarjeta Naranja, amongst these four segments the Group estimates parameters in a more granular way based on the shared risk characteristics.

Stage classification

Each subsidiary of Grupo Galicia classifies financial instruments subject to impairment under IFRS 9 in stages, as follows:

-

Stage 1: in the case of retail portfolios, it includes every operation up to 31 days past due.

31 days past due. In the case of wholesale portfolios, it considers every client whose Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (B.C.R.A.)BCRA situation indicates a normal status (A1) (i.e. low risk of bankruptcy).

-

Stage 2: considers two groups:

 

o

Portfolios between 31 and 90 days past due.

o

Probability of Default (“PD”) or Score with impairment risk.

o

For wholesale, it considers credit ratings for which the risk of default has increased significantly.

 

Probability of Default (“PD”) or Score with impairment risk.

 

-

Stage 3: For retail portfolios, it includes every operation amounting 90 or more days past due.

For wholesale portfolios, it considers every client whose B.C.R.A. situation indicates serious risk of bankruptcy (C, D, E, F).

For wholesale, it considers credit ratings for which the risk of default has increased significantly (see definition in section below).

1

The analysis of the customer's cash flow shows that it is capable of attend adequately all its financial commitments.

 

Stage 3: For retail portfolios, it includes every operation amounting 90 or more days past due.

For wholesale portfolios, it considers every client whose BCRA situation indicates serious risk of bankruptcy (C, D, E).

F-71


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Significant Increase in credit risk

The Group considers a financial instrument to have experienced a significant increase in credit risk when any of the following conditions exist:

 

Retail Portfolio

1

The analysis of the customer’s cash flow shows that it is capable of attend adequately all its financial commitments.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Lifetime PD band at initial recognition

Retail Portfolio

BCRA situation

Extra conditions to be considered stage 2

<6%

-Cure

-Between 30 and 90 past due days

>6%

-It does not apply to defaulted clients

Retail-like portfolio

Rating Ranges

Extra conditions to be considered stage 2

-Cure

A, AA, AA+, B, BB, BBB

-Between 30 and 90 past due days

C, CC, CCC

-It does not apply to defaulted clients

Wholesale portfolio

Rating Ranges

Extra conditions to be considered stage 2

A, AA, AA+, B, BB, BBB

- B.C.R.A. situation B1

C, CC, CCC

-It does not apply to defaulted clients

Definition of Default

A financial asset is considered to be in default whenever a payment is more thanconsidered stage 2

A, B1

- Cure
- Between 30 and 90 days past due or if the Company considers the payment will not be fully reimbursed.

However, given the credit analysis for wholesale loans is not managed and classified the same way as retail loans, the default definition associated to wholesale portfolios is ultimately linked to the individual analysis provided by credit analysts.

The default definition has been applied consistently to model thedays

- Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at(“PD”) or Score(*) with impairment risk

C

- It does not apply to defaulted clients
Retail-like Portfolio

BCRA situation

Extra conditions to be considered stage 2

A, B1

- Cure
- Between 30 and 90 past due days
- Probability of Default (EAD) and Loss given(“PD”) or Score(*) with impairment risk

C

- It does not apply to defaulted clients
Wholesale Portfolio

BCRA situation

Extra conditions to be considered stage 2

A

- Cure
- BCRA situation B1
- Probability of Default (LGD) throughout the Group’s expected loss calculations:

(“PD”) or Score(*) with impairment risk

C

- It does not apply to defaulted clients

 

-

(*)

Internal scoring.

Definition of Default

A financial asset is in default whenever a payment is more than 90 days past due, or if the Company considers the payment will not be fully reimbursed.

However, given the credit analysis for wholesale loans is not managed and classified the same way as retail loans, the default definition associated to wholesale portfolios is ultimately linked to the individual analysis provided by credit analysts.

The default definition has been applied consistently to model the Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at Default (EAD) and Loss given Default (LGD) throughout the Group’s expected loss calculations:

Probability of Default (“PD”): it represents the likelihood of a borrower defaulting on its financial obligation (as per the definition of default included above), either over the next 12 months or the remaining lifetime of the obligation.

 

-

Exposure at the moment of Default (“EAD”): it is based on the amounts the Group expects to be owed at the time of default, over the next 12 months or over the remaining lifetime. For example, for a revolving commitment, the Group includes the current draw down balance plus any further amount that it is expected to be drawn up to the current contractual limit by the time of default, should it have occurred.

 

-

Loss given Default (“LGD”): represents the Group´s expectation of the extent of loss on a defaulted exposure. LGD varies by type of counterparty, type of seniority of claim and availability of collateral or other credit support. LGD is expressed as a percentage loss per unit of exposure at the time of default. LGD is calculated on a 12 month or lifetime basis, where 12-month LGD is the percentage of loss expected to be made if a default occurs in the next 12 months and Lifetime LGD is the percentage of loss expected to be made if a default occurs over the remaining expected lifetime of the loan.

An instrument is considered to no longer be in default when it no longer meets any of the default criteria above mentioned.

Methodology for Expected Credit Loss estimation

Expected credit loss impairment allowances recognized in the financial statements reflect the effect of a range of possible economic outcomes, calculated on a probability-weighted basis, based on the economic scenarios described below. The recognition and measurement of expected credit losses (‘ECL’) involves the use of significant judgment and estimation. It is necessary to formulate multiple forward-looking economic forecasts and incorporate them into the ECL estimates. Grupo Galicia uses a standard framework to form economic scenarios to reflect assumptions about

F-72


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Methodology for Expected Credit Loss estimation

Expected credit loss impairment allowances recognized in the financial statements reflect the effect of a range of possible economic outcomes, calculated on a probability-weighted basis, based on the economic scenarios described below. The recognition and measurement of expected credit losses (‘ECL’) involves the use of significant judgment and estimation. It is necessary to formulate multiple forward-looking economic forecasts and incorporate them into the ECL estimates. Grupo Galicia uses a standard framework to form economic scenarios to reflect assumptions about future economic conditions, supplemented with the use of management judgment, which may result in using alternative or additional economic scenarios and/or management adjustments.

IFRS 9 establishes the following standards regarding the estimation of credit loss:

-

An unbiased weighted probability index determined by the evaluation of different outcomes.

-

Time value of money

-

Reasonable and sustainable information available at no additional cost or effort that provides evidence to support forecasts, as well as present conditions and past events.

According to IFRS 9, the company prepared three different scenarios with different probabilities: a central scenario with 70 % probability of occurrence, a downside scenario with 15 % probability of occurrence and an upside scenario with 15 % probability of occurrence.

In order to account for time value of money, the Company assumes expected losses will take place according to the PD behavior.

The ECL is determined by projecting the PD, EAD and LGD for each future month or collective segment. These three components are multiplied together and adjusted for forward looking information. This effectively calculates an ECL for each future month, which is then discounted back to the reporting date and summed. The discount rate used in the ECL calculation is the original effective interest rate or an approximation thereof.

Key macroeconomic variables used in the scenarios described below are shown in the table:

Macroeconomic Variable Projections

 

 

 

QI - 2019

 

 

QII - 2019

 

 

QIII - 2019

 

 

QIV - 2019

 

Monthly Estimator of Economic

   Activity (EMAE)

 

Base

 

 

-7.7

%

 

 

-1.7

%

 

 

-1.2

%

 

 

1.4

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

-6.6

%

 

 

0.6

%

 

 

2.3

%

 

 

6.2

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

-8.5

%

 

 

-3.3

%

 

 

-3.5

%

 

 

-1.8

%

Inflation Rate (IPC)

 

Base

 

 

47.3

%

 

 

43.8

%

 

 

32.4

%

 

 

25.0

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

43.5

%

 

 

38.0

%

 

 

26.0

%

 

 

20.0

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

47.7

%

 

 

46.3

%

 

 

41.7

%

 

 

40.0

%

Exchange Rate

 

Base

 

 

99.2

%

 

 

58.5

%

 

 

14.3

%

 

 

20.0

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

96.3

%

 

 

54.6

%

 

 

9.9

%

 

 

15.3

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

115.8

%

 

 

84.3

%

 

 

40.6

%

 

 

56.7

%

Unemployment Rate

 

Base

 

 

13.1

%

 

 

4.0

%

 

 

0.3

%

 

 

-4.3

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

10.4

%

 

 

-0.9

%

 

 

-7.6

%

 

 

-15.7

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

22.9

%

 

 

22.5

%

 

 

30.0

%

 

 

38.6

%

(Badlar)

 

Base

 

 

79.7

%

 

 

22.7

%

 

 

-16.4

%

 

 

-29.2

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

71.0

%

 

 

9.6

%

 

 

-30.7

%

 

 

-45.8

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

102.7

%

 

 

57.0

%

 

 

21.2

%

 

 

14.6

%

Real Salary

 

Base

 

 

-9.5

%

 

 

-7.1

%

 

 

1.0

%

 

 

2.4

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

-8.8

%

 

 

-6.5

%

 

 

2.6

%

 

 

4.3

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

-11.2

%

 

 

-11.3

%

 

 

-5.1

%

 

 

-5.2

%

PIB

 

Base

 

 

-7.0

%

 

 

-1.5

%

 

 

-0.1

%

 

 

2.6

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

-2.3

%

 

 

1.5

%

 

 

2.9

%

 

 

6.2

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

-7.1

%

 

 

-3.7

%

 

 

-3.5

%

 

 

-1.8

%

Current Account

 

Base

 

 

-64.9

%

 

 

-87.2

%

 

 

-45.0

%

 

 

19.1

%

 

 

Upside

 

 

-50.7

%

 

 

-86.8

%

 

 

-64.5

%

 

 

44.9

%

 

 

Downside

 

 

-54.6

%

 

 

-97.8

%

 

 

-92.9

%

 

 

-77.8

%

This variations were calculated bases on data from December-2018

Scenario Probabilities

 

Base

 

 

Optimistic

 

 

Pessimistic

 

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale

 

 

70

%

 

 

15

%

 

 

15

%

Tarjeta Naranja

 

 

70

%

 

 

15

%

 

 

15

%

Grupo Galicia has also carried out sensitivity analysis to assess the impact of volatility on macroeconomic variables on the result of the expected credit losses.

Scenario 1 (change in the probability of the macroeconomic scenarios)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Base scenario

 

 

Sensitivity

 

Regular scenario

 

 

70.0

%

 

 

45.0

%

Positive scenario

 

 

15.0

%

 

 

10.0

%

Negative scenario

 

 

15.0

%

 

 

45.0

%

GFG ECL

 

 

15,782,416

 

 

 

16,547,663

 

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale ECL

 

 

10,475,119

 

 

 

10,596,393

 

Naranja ECL

 

 

5,307,297

 

 

 

5,497,757

 

 

F-73


Time value of money

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Reasonable and sustainable information available at no additional cost or effort that provides evidence to support forecasts, as well as present conditions and past events.

According to IFRS 9, the company prepared three different scenarios with different probabilities: a central scenario with 70 % probability of occurrence, a downside scenario with 15 % probability of occurrence and an upside scenario with 15 % probability of occurrence.

Scenario Probabilities

  Base  Optimistic  Pessimistic 

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale

   70  15  15

Naranja

   70  15  15

In order to account for time value of money, the Company assumes expected losses will take place according to the PD behavior.

The ECL is determined by projecting the PD, EAD and LGD for each future month or collective segment. These three components are multiplied together and adjusted for forward looking information. This effectively calculates an ECL for each future month, which is then discounted back to the reporting date and summed. The discount rate used in the ECL calculation is the original effective interest rate or an approximation thereof.

Key macroeconomic variables used in the scenarios described below are shown in the table:

Macroeconomic Variable Projections

     QI - 2020  QII - 2020  QIII - 2020  QIV - 2020 

GDP

  Base   -2.8  15.6  2.5  -0.7

GDP

  Optimistic   -2.2  17.8  5.1  2.7

GDP

  Pessimistic   -3.1  14.2  -3.8  -10.2

Unemployment Rate

  Base   7.6  -15.6  -10.4  -12.3

Unemployment Rate

  Optimistic   16.3  -10.1  -11.3  -15.3

Unemployment Rate

  Pessimistic   20.1  6.2  21.9  34.8

Real Salary

  Base   -16.6  -8.6  -1.7  3.3

Real Salary

  Optimistic   -13.2  -7.7  -2.1  4.3

Real Salary

  Pessimistic   -10.9  -4.7  -3.7  -5.9

Badlar

  Base   48.8  42.2  31.1  4.3

Badlar

  Optimistic   38.3  25.9  13.0  -13.0

Badlar

  Pessimistic   15.0  35.4  101.7  44.9

These variations were calculated based on annual basis.

Grupo Galicia has also carried out sensitivity analysis to assess the impact of volatility on macroeconomic variables on the result of the expected credit losses.

Scenario 1 (change in the probability

of the macroeconomic scenarios)

  Base scenario  Sensitivity 

Regular scenario

   70  45

Positive scenario

   15  10

Negative scenario

   15  45
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia ECL

   37,332,952   38,008,542 

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale ECL

   31,187,671   31,703,980 

Naranja ECL

   6,145,281   6,304,562 

Scenario 2 (change in forecast PIB, inflation, nominal

exchange rate, unemployment, current account)

  Regular
scenario
  Positive
scenario
  Negative
scenario
 

Macroeconomic scenario probability

   70  15  15
      Sensitivity    

GDP

   -5  1  -15

Unemployment Rate

   -8  -6  40

Real Salary

   -2  -4  -5

Badlar

   40  10  120
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Grupo Financiero Galicia ECL

    37,467,704  

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale RCL

    31,101,450  

Naranja ECL

    6,366,254  

Post-model adjustments

Since March 2020, the Argentine Central Bank implemented a series of measures to reduce the economic consequences of COVID-19 pandemic, among which are the deferral of payments and suspension of the collection of punitive interest in case of default in payments of loan installments, being the credit cards loans excluded from this benefit.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Thus, considering the adverse economic context that the country is going through, borrower credit uncertainty and measures issued by the Argentine Central Bank, the management recognized an additional credit loss allowance to that obtained through the statistical model of ECL on the deferred loan portfolio, which shows the potential impairment due to the macroeconomic context, once the implemented measures are lifted by the Argentine Central Bank.

The management measured the additional impact on the allowance from the estimation of the expected credit loss of loan portfolios which have deferred payments, based on new probabilities of default (PD) estimated using adjusted roll rates for the affected segments (mortgage, personal ,and restructured loans within the retail portfolio and debt notes of the retail like portfolio). The overlay also included a “Lifetime Adjustment”.

Maximum exposure to credit risk

Unless identified at an earlier stage, all financial assets are deemed to have suffered a significant increase in credit risk when they are 30 days past due (“DPD”) and are transferred from stage 1 to stage 2. The following disclosure presents the ageing of stage 2 financial assets. It distinguishes those assets that are classified as stage 2 when they are less than 30 days past due (1-29 DPD) from those that are more than 30 DPD (30 and >DPD). Past due financial instruments are those loans where customers have failed to make payments in accordance with the contractual terms of their facilities.

The following table contains an analysis of the credit risk exposure of financial instruments for which an ECL allowance is recognized.

   Retail Portfolio    
   December 31, 2020  December 31,
2019
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   115,540,641   47,518,146   —     163,058,787   147,407,781 

1-30

   1,378,181   1,164,534   1,509,705   4,052,420   4,448,958 

31-60

   —     997,662   48,665   1,046,327   1,940,358 

61-90

   —     561,381   94,732   656,113   1,093,520 

Default

   —     —     5,556,973   5,556,973   5,829,065 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   116,918,822   50,241,723   7,210,075   174,370,620   160,719,682 

Loss allowance

   (4,954,235  (12,628,050  (5,893,949  (23,476,234  (14,299,064
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   111,964,587   37,613,673   1,316,126   150,894,386   146,420,618 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Retail like Portfolio    
   December 31, 2020  December 31,
2019
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   104,800,495   12,159,876   961,171   117,921,542   51,512,818 

1-30

   968,840   542,107   218,040   1,728,987   2,729,542 

31-60

   —     209,942   6,511   216,453   305,087 

61-90

   —     45,021   15,885   60,906   435,629 

Default

   —     —     1,187,351   1,187,351   3,318,130 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   105,769,335   12,956,946   2,388,958   121,115,239   58,301,206 

Loss allowance

   (559,205  (2,130,872  (1,831,739  (4,521,816  (4,103,299
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   105,210,130   10,826,074   557,219   116,593,423   54,197,907 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Wholesale Portfolio    
   December 31, 2020  December 31,
2019
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

A

   263,742,041   12,556,395   —     276,298,436   288,340,517 

B1

   —     1,002,250   —     1,002,250   514,223 

Default

   —     —     796,138   796,138   6,638,965 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   263,742,041   13,558,645   796,138   278,096,824   295,493,705 

Loss allowance

   (1,959,717  (623,103  (606,801  (3,189,621  (7,096,646
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   261,782,324   12,935,542   189,337   274,907,203   288,397,059 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Naranja    
   December 31, 2020  December 31,
2019
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Lifetime
ECL
  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   85,988,867   1,003,472   263,172   87,255,511   61,842,678 

1-30

   3,231,993   225,959   56,048   3,514,000   3,652,592 

31-60

   —     853,081   47,855   900,936   1,760,530 

61-90

   —     373,206   30,348   403,554   919,425 

Default

   —     —     1,974,836   1,974,836   7,597,388 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   89,220,860   2,455,718   2,372,259   94,048,837   75,772,613 

Loss allowance

   (3,707,641  (589,155  (1,848,485  (6,145,281  (10,092,365
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   85,513,219   1,866,563   523,774   87,903,556   65,680,248 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Retail Portfolio    
   December 31, 2019  December 31,
2018
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   106,961,239   39,204,462   1,242,080   147,407,781   189,552,804 

1-30

   2,127,002   2,069,604   252,352   4,448,958   7,164,281 

31-60

   —     1,718,377   221,981   1,940,358   3,190,264 

61-90

   —     719,178   374,342   1,093,520   1,652,119 

Default

   —     —     5,829,065   5,829,065   7,080,891 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   109,088,241   43,711,621   7,919,820   160,719,682   208,640,359 

Loss allowance

   (5,514,025  (2,554,594  (6,230,445  (14,299,064  (15,659,979
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   103,574,216   41,157,027   1,689,375   146,420,618   192,980,380 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Retail like Portfolio    
   December 31, 2019  December 31,
2018
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   44,985,250   5,850,798   676,770   51,512,818   67,804,625 

1-30

   1,779,010   725,260   225,272   2,729,542   2,774,228 

31-60

   —     217,775   87,312   305,087   704,220 

61-90

   —     234,578   201,051   435,629   548,510 

Default

   —     —     3,318,130   3,318,130   3,764,864 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   46,764,260   7,028,411   4,508,535   58,301,206   75,596,447 

Loss allowance

   (480,463  (199,468  (3,423,368  (4,103,299  (3,616,367
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   46,283,797   6,828,943   1,085,167   54,197,907   71,980,080 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Wholesale Portfolio    
   December 31, 2019  December 31,
2018
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

A

   280,598,191   7,742,326   —     288,340,517   296,480,994 

B1

   ���     514,223   —     514,223   (4,604,821

Default

   —     —     6,638,965   6,638,965   5,268,147 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   280,598,191   8,256,549   6,638,965   295,493,705   297,144,320 

Loss allowance

   (679,001  (301,216  (6,116,429  (7,096,646  (2,661,522
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   279,919,190   7,955,333   522,536   288,397,059   294,482,798 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Naranja    
   December 31, 2019  December 31,
2018
 
   ECL Staging    
   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3       
   12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Total  Total 

Days past due

      

0

   60,762,833   724,351   355,494   61,842,678   82,799,332 

1-30

   3,314,275   216,244   122,073   3,652,592   7,369,251 

31-60

   —     1,656,414   104,116   1,760,530   3,564,361 

61-90

   —     856,384   63,041   919,425   1,967,627 

Default

   —     —     7,597,388   7,597,388   7,931,114 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross Carrying amount

   64,077,108   3,453,393   8,242,112   75,772,613   103,631,685 

Loss allowance

   (2,754,583  (958,629  (6,379,153  (10,092,365  (11,114,984
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net Carrying amount

   61,322,525   2,494,764   1,862,959   65,680,248   92,516,701 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The Grupo Galicia employs a range of policies and practices to mitigate credit risk. The most common of these is accepting collateral for loans or funds advanced. The Group has internal policies on the acceptability of specific classes of collateral.

The Grupo Galicia policies regarding obtaining collateral have not significantly changed during the reporting period and there has been no significant change in the overall quality of the collateral held by the Group since the prior period.

This table provides information on balance sheet items and their collateral in offsets as well as loan and other credit-related commitments.

Assets Subject to Impairment

Item

  Carrying Amount   Loss Allowances   Gross Carrying
Amount
   Collateral´s Fair
Value
 

Advances

   29,219,431    (679,786   28,539,645    —   

Mortgage Loans

   143,769,344    (522,696   143,246,648    —   

Pledge Loans

   16,486,335    (5,320,236   11,166,099    148,099,128 

Personal Loans

   11,586,593    (109,735   11,476,858    32,538,883 

Credit Card Loans

   36,504,158    (8,787,760   27,716,398    —   

Financial Leases

   241,793,015    (16,713,933   225,079,082    —   

Overdrafts

   1,855,070    (36,388   1,818,682    —   

Pre-financing export loans

   29,487,016    (629,027   28,857,989    —   

Others

   138,001,603    (4,489,715   133,511,888    1,784,133 

Other Debt Securities

   18,928,955    (43,676   18,885,279    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total as of December 31, 2020

   667,631,520    (37,332,952   630,298,568    182,422,144 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The following table shows information about the mortgage portfolio LTV distribution.

 

Scenario 2 (change in forecast PIB, inflation, nominal exchange rate, unemployment, current account)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regular scenario

 

 

Positive scenario

 

 

Negative scenario

 

Macroeconomic scenario probability

 

 

70.0

%

 

 

15.0

%

 

 

15.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sensivity

 

 

 

 

 

PIB

 

 

1.86

%

 

 

4.73

%

 

 

-6.75

%

Inflation

 

 

35

%

 

 

25

%

 

 

50

%

Nominal exchange rate

 

 

29.87

%

 

 

20.00

%

 

 

81.82

%

Unemployment

 

 

5

%

 

 

10

%

 

 

20

%

Current account

 

 

-11.21

%

 

 

-29.25

%

 

 

-82

%

GFG ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

16,515,901

 

 

 

 

 

Retail, Retail like and Wholesale ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

11,193,327

 

 

 

 

 

Naranja ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,322,574

 

 

 

 

 

Percentages referMortgages Portfolio -LTV Distribution

Exposure

Lower than 50%

3,807

50 to increase/decrease against real December 2018.60%

282

Maximum exposure60 to credit risk70%

576

Unless identified at an earlier stage, all financial assets are deemed70 to have suffered a significant increase in credit risk when they are 30 days past due (“DPD”) and are transferred from stage 180%

436

80 to stage 2. The following disclosure presents the ageing of stage 2 financial assets. It distinguishes those assets that are classified as stage 2 when they are less90%

495

90 to 100%

4,765

Higher than 30 days past due (1-29 DPD) from those that are more than 30 DPD (30 and >DPD). Past due financial instruments are those loans where customers have failed to make payments in accordance with the contractual terms of their facilities.100%

The following table contains an analysis of the credit risk exposure of financial instruments for which an ECL allowance is recognized.

20,599

 

 

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

December

31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

80,123,131

 

 

 

10,386,495

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

90,509,626

 

 

 

102,251,974

 

1-30

 

 

2,220,365

 

 

 

1,200,510

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,420,875

 

 

 

3,432,010

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,523,320

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,523,320

 

 

 

1,137,401

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

788,871

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

788,871

 

 

 

490,172

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,381,057

 

 

 

3,381,057

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

82,343,496

 

 

 

13,899,196

 

 

 

3,381,057

 

 

 

99,623,749

 

 

 

109,917,812

 

Loss allowance

 

 

2,600,458

 

 

 

2,317,516

 

 

 

2,559,514

 

 

 

7,477,488

 

 

 

3,686,934

 

Carrying amount

 

 

79,743,038

 

 

 

11,581,680

 

 

 

821,543

 

 

 

92,146,261

 

 

 

106,230,878

 

 

 

 

Retail like Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

December

31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

29,273,332

 

 

 

3,102,719

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

32,376,051

 

 

 

30,599,160

 

1-30

 

 

866,912

 

 

 

457,755

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,324,667

 

 

 

711,005

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

336,258

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

336,258

 

 

 

136,622

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

261,908

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

261,908

 

 

 

97,848

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,797,686

 

 

 

1,797,686

 

 

 

802,398

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

30,140,244

 

 

 

4,158,640

 

 

 

1,797,686

 

 

 

36,096,570

 

 

 

32,347,033

 

Loss allowance

 

 

266,947

 

 

 

280,127

 

 

 

1,179,706

 

 

 

1,726,780

 

 

 

965,360

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

29,873,297

 

 

 

3,878,513

 

 

 

617,980

 

 

 

34,369,790

 

 

 

31,381,673

 

Total

30,960

 

F-74


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Reconciliation of changes in gross carrying/nominal amount and allowances for loans and advances to banks and customers including loan commitments and financial guarantees

The following disclosure provides a reconciliation by stage of the Group’s gross carrying/nominal amount and allowances for loans and advances to banks and customers, including loan commitments and financial guarantees. The transfers of financial instruments represent the impact of stage transfers upon the gross carrying/nominal amount and associated allowance for ECL. The net remeasurement of ECL arising from stage transfers represents the increase or decrease due to these transfers, for example, moving from a 12-month (stage 1) to a lifetime (stage 2) ECL measurement basis. This is captured, along with other credit quality movements in the ‘changes in PD/LGD/EAD’ line item. The ‘New financial assets originated or repurchased’ represent the gross carrying/nominal amount and associated allowance ECL impact from volume movements within the Group’s lending portfolio.

 

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

December

31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

 

 

135,513,044

 

 

 

6,048,342

 

 

 

5,413

 

 

 

141,566,799

 

 

 

130,441,016

 

B1

 

 

(2,237,665

)

 

 

38,908

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,198,757

)

 

 

77,335

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,515,489

 

 

 

2,515,489

 

 

 

808,091

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

133,275,379

 

 

 

6,087,250

 

 

 

2,520,902

 

 

 

141,883,531

 

 

 

131,326,442

 

Loss allowance

 

 

525,757

 

 

 

77,364

 

 

 

667,730

 

 

 

1,270,851

 

 

 

750,612

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

132,749,622

 

 

 

6,009,886

 

 

 

1,853,172

 

 

 

140,612,680

 

 

 

130,575,830

 

 

 

Naranja

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

December

31, 2017

 

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

Lifetime

ECL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

36,512,083

 

 

 

3,023,795

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

39,535,878

 

 

 

43,394,982

 

1-30

 

 

2,571,877

 

 

 

946,869

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,518,746

 

 

 

3,389,912

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,701,948

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,701,948

 

 

 

1,128,408

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

939,523

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

939,523

 

 

 

526,990

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,787,030

 

 

 

3,787,030

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

39,083,960

 

 

 

6,612,135

 

 

 

3,787,030

 

 

 

49,483,125

 

 

 

51,375,287

 

Loss allowance

 

 

1,376,585

 

 

 

1,842,615

 

 

 

2,088,097

 

 

 

5,307,297

 

 

 

3,877,715

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

37,707,375

 

 

 

4,769,520

 

 

 

1,698,933

 

 

 

44,175,828

 

 

 

47,497,572

 

 

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

January

01, 2017

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

90,744,245

 

 

 

11,507,729

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

102,251,974

 

 

 

77,585,443

 

1-30

 

 

2,266,370

 

 

 

1,165,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,432,010

 

 

 

4,686,395

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,137,401

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,137,401

 

 

 

1,109,964

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

490,172

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

490,172

 

 

 

511,715

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

 

 

2,209,277

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

93,010,615

 

 

 

14,300,942

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

 

 

109,917,812

 

 

 

86,102,794

 

Loss allowance

 

 

1,093,601

 

 

 

917,070

 

 

 

1,676,263

 

 

 

3,686,934

 

 

 

3,448,164

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

91,917,014

 

 

 

13,383,872

 

 

 

929,992

 

 

 

106,230,878

 

 

 

82,654,630

 

 

 

Retail like Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

January

01, 2017

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

27,628,736

 

 

 

2,970,424

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

30,599,160

 

 

 

24,473,623

 

1-30

 

 

393,902

 

 

 

317,103

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

711,005

 

 

 

450,049

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

136,622

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

136,622

 

 

 

485,422

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

97,848

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

97,848

 

 

 

73,407

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

802,398

 

 

 

802,398

 

 

 

472,030

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

28,022,638

 

 

 

3,521,997

 

 

 

802,398

 

 

 

32,347,033

 

 

 

25,954,531

 

Loss allowance

 

 

221,758

 

 

 

127,030

 

 

 

616,572

 

 

 

965,360

 

 

 

619,208

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

27,800,880

 

 

 

3,394,967

 

 

 

185,826

 

 

 

31,381,673

 

 

 

25,335,323

 

F-75


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

January

01, 2017

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

 

 

122,301,109

 

 

 

8,138,330

 

 

 

1,577

 

 

 

130,441,016

 

 

 

99,417,742

 

B1

 

 

-

 

 

 

77,335

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

77,335

 

 

 

319,115

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

808,091

 

 

 

808,091

 

 

 

339,002

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

122,301,109

 

 

 

8,215,665

 

 

 

809,668

 

 

 

131,326,442

 

 

 

100,075,859

 

Loss allowance

 

 

211,775

 

 

 

45,209

 

 

 

493,628

 

 

 

750,612

 

 

 

496,885

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

122,089,334

 

 

 

8,170,456

 

 

 

316,040

 

 

 

130,575,830

 

 

 

99,578,974

 

 

 

Naranja

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

January

01, 2017

 

 

ECL Staging

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Days past due

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

39,229,241

 

 

 

4,165,741

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

43,394,982

 

 

 

45,435,532

 

1-30

 

 

1,810,650

 

 

 

1,579,262

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,389,912

 

 

 

3,075,142

 

31-60

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,128,408

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,128,408

 

 

 

1,121,215

 

61-90

 

 

-

 

 

 

526,990

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

526,990

 

 

 

588,117

 

Default

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

 

 

3,251,395

 

Gross Carrying amount

 

 

41,039,891

 

 

 

7,400,401

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

 

 

51,375,287

 

 

 

53,471,401

 

Loss allowance

 

 

904,291

 

 

 

1,270,258

 

 

 

1,703,166

 

 

 

3,877,715

 

 

 

4,160,322

 

Net Carrying amount

 

 

40,135,600

 

 

 

6,130,143

 

 

 

1,231,829

 

 

 

47,497,572

 

 

 

49,311,079

 

The Grupo Galicia employs a range of policies and practices to mitigate credit risk. The most common of these is accepting collateral for loans or funds advanced. The Group has internal policies on the acceptability of specific classes of collateral.

The Grupo Galicia policies regarding obtaining collateral have not significantly changed during the reporting period and there has been no significant change in the overall quality of the collateral held by the Group since the prior period.

This table provides information on balance sheet items and their collateral in offsets as well as loan and other credit-related commitments.

Assets Subject to Impairment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item

 

Carrying Amount

 

 

Loss Allowances

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

 

 

Collateral´s Fair Value

 

Overdrafts

 

 

14,430,578

 

 

 

443,681

 

 

 

13,986,897

 

 

 

-

 

Mortagage Loans

 

 

11,793,007

 

 

 

253,178

 

 

 

11,539,829

 

 

 

48,761,041

 

Collateral Loans

 

 

997,958

 

 

 

10,255

 

 

 

987,703

 

 

 

4,037,908

 

Personal Loans

 

 

29,144,931

 

 

 

1,122,335

 

 

 

28,022,596

 

 

 

-

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

113,395,362

 

 

 

9,406,437

 

 

 

103,988,925

 

 

 

-

 

Financial Leases

 

 

2,198,047

 

 

 

26,424

 

 

 

2,171,623

 

 

 

-

 

Promisory Notes

 

 

36,020,263

 

 

 

422,487

 

 

 

35,597,776

 

 

 

-

 

Pre-financing export loans

 

 

69,536,225

 

 

 

1,642,944

 

 

 

67,893,281

 

 

 

-

 

Others

 

 

35,020,864

 

 

 

2,329,069

 

 

 

32,691,795

 

 

 

2,428,566

 

Public Securities

 

 

14,549,740

 

 

 

125,606

 

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

55,227,515

 

Total as of December 31, 2018

 

 

327,086,975

 

 

 

15,782,416

 

 

 

311,304,559

 

 

 

110,455,030

 

The following table shows information about the mortgage portfolio LTV distribution.

Mortgages Portfolio -LTV Distribution

Exposure

Lower than 50%

8,283

50 a 60%

2,940

60 a 70%

4,562

70 a 80%

2,084

80 a 90%

349

90 a 100%

878

Higher than 100%

612

Total

19,708

F-76


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Reconciliation of changes in gross carrying/nominal amount and allowances for loans and advances to banks and customers including loan commitments and financial guarantees

The following disclosure provides a reconciliation by stage of the Group’s gross carrying/nominal amount and allowances for loans and advances to banks and customers, including loan commitments and financial guarantees. The transfers of financial instruments represents the impact of stage transfers upon the gross carrying/nominal amount and associated allowance for ECL. The net remeasurement of ECL arising from stage transfers represents the increase or decrease due to these transfers, for example, moving from a 12-month (stage 1) to a lifetime (stage 2) ECL measurement basis. This is captured, along with other credit quality movements in the ‘changes in PD/LGD/EAD’ line item. The ‘New financial assets originated or repurchased’ represent the gross carrying/nominal amount and associated allowance ECL impact from volume movements within the Group’s lending portfolio.

The following tables explain the changes in the loss allowance between the beginning and the end of the annual period due to these factors:

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

1,093,601

 

 

 

917,070

 

 

 

1,676,263

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,686,934

 

Inflation effect

 

 

(352,907

)

 

 

(295,942

)

 

 

(540,935

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,189,784

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(36,452

)

 

 

36,452

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(12,985

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,985

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to  Stage 1

 

 

61,669

 

 

 

(61,669

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

680,315

 

 

 

1,376,390

 

 

 

1,615,940

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,672,645

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

1,229,264

 

 

 

637,622

 

 

 

836,772

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,703,658

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

46,707

 

 

 

26,548

 

 

 

(9,776

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

63,479

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 a stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(40,809

)

 

 

40,809

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

28,664

 

 

 

(28,664

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(216,869

)

 

 

(611,817

)

 

 

(2,081,627

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,910,313

)

Write-offs

 

 

108,115

 

 

 

305,007

 

 

 

1,037,747

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,450,869

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

 

 

2,600,458

 

 

 

2,317,516

 

 

 

2,559,514

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,477,488

 

Retail Like Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

221,758

 

 

 

127,030

 

 

 

616,572

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

965,360

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(71,562

)

 

 

(40,993

)

 

 

(198,969

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(311,524

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(3,911

)

 

 

3,911

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(743

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

743

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to  Stage 1

 

 

9,575

 

 

 

(9,575

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

181,218

 

 

 

195,991

 

 

 

868,022

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,245,231

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

17,285

 

 

 

38,295

 

 

 

166,277

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

221,857

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

17,044

 

 

 

16,267

 

 

 

88,193

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

121,504

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,935

)

 

 

2,935

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,145

 

 

 

(3,145

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(206,825

)

 

 

(101,718

)

 

 

(719,723

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,028,266

)

Write-offs

 

 

103,108

 

 

 

50,709

 

 

 

358,801

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

512,618

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

 

 

266,947

 

 

 

280,127

 

 

 

1,179,706

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,726,780

 

F-77


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

211,775

 

 

 

45,209

 

 

 

493,628

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

750,612

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(68,341

)

 

 

(14,588

)

 

 

(159,293

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(242,222

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(1,872

)

 

 

1,872

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(179

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

179

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

2,797

 

 

 

(2,797

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

398,510

 

 

 

43,148

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

441,658

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

69,078

 

 

 

20,034

 

 

 

76,416

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

165,528

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

(6,823

)

 

 

9,991

 

 

 

250,650

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

253,818

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,150

)

 

 

6,150

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(157,912

)

 

 

(38,596

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(196,508

)

Write-offs

 

 

78,724

 

 

 

19,241

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

97,965

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

 

 

525,757

 

 

 

77,364

 

 

 

667,730

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,270,851

 

Naranja

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

904,291

 

 

 

1,270,258

 

 

 

1,703,166

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,877,715

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(291,817

)

 

 

(409,915

)

 

 

(549,616

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,251,348

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(111,156

)

 

 

111,156

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(40,296

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

40,296

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

215,544

 

 

 

(215,544

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

514,603

 

 

 

735,092

 

 

 

518,621

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,768,316

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

328,246

 

 

 

1,003,381

 

 

 

1,122,398

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,454,025

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

(128,575

)

 

 

(210,087

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(338,662

)

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(280,363

)

 

 

280,363

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,906

 

 

 

(10,906

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

 

 

9,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9,664

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(53,058

)

 

 

(382,131

)

 

 

(2,232,778

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,667,967

)

Write-offs

 

 

29,139

 

 

 

209,862

 

 

 

1,226,217

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,465,218

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

 

 

1,376,585

 

 

 

1,842,615

 

 

 

2,088,097

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,307,297

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of January 1, 2017

 

 

1,275,440

 

 

 

696,665

 

 

 

1,476,059

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,448,164

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(253,416

)

 

 

(138,420

)

 

 

(293,277

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(685,113

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(37,260

)

 

 

37,260

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(12,603

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,603

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

136,516

 

 

 

(136,516

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

307,212

 

 

 

619,118

 

 

 

970,014

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,896,344

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

(110,722

)

 

 

90,105

 

 

 

592,974

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

572,357

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

10,539

 

 

 

1,326

 

 

 

(11,577

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

288

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(33,992

)

 

 

33,992

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

29,170

 

 

 

(29,170

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(362,292

)

 

 

(403,954

)

 

 

(1,754,093

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,520,339

)

Write-offs

 

 

140,187

 

 

 

156,308

 

 

 

678,738

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

975,233

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

1,093,601

 

 

 

917,070

 

 

 

1,676,263

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,686,934

 

F-78


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Retail Like Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of January 1, 2017

 

 

57,285

 

 

 

189,219

 

 

 

372,704

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

619,208

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(11,381

)

 

 

(37,596

)

 

 

(74,053

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(123,030

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(4,026

)

 

 

4,026

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(371

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

371

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

43,613

 

 

 

(43,613

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

181,012

 

 

 

82,364

 

 

 

401,713

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

665,089

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

(34,518

)

 

 

2,759

 

 

 

103,879

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

72,120

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

912

 

 

 

11,434

 

 

 

44,207

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

56,553

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,279

)

 

 

6,279

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,665

 

 

 

(6,665

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(17,564

)

 

 

(133,673

)

 

 

(378,210

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(529,447

)

Write-offs

 

 

6,796

 

 

 

51,724

 

 

 

146,347

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

204,867

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

221,758

 

 

 

127,030

 

 

 

616,572

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

965,360

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of January 1, 2017

 

 

166,413

 

 

 

106,888

 

 

 

223,584

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

496,885

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(33,066

)

 

 

(21,237

)

 

 

(44,424

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(98,727

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(2,693

)

 

 

2,693

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(61

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

61

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

2,228

 

 

 

(2,228

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

170,640

 

 

 

29,321

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

199,961

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

568

 

 

 

20,024

 

 

 

47,276

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

67,868

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

10,972

 

 

 

(10,901

)

 

 

257,364

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

257,435

 

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9,767

)

 

 

9,767

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(168,380

)

 

 

(113,504

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(281,884

)

Write-offs

 

 

65,154

 

 

 

43,920

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

109,074

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

211,775

 

 

 

45,209

 

 

 

493,628

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

750,612

 

Naranja

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Loss Allowance as of January 1, 2017

 

 

775,611

 

 

 

1,566,226

 

 

 

1,818,485

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,160,322

 

Inflation effect

 

 

 

 

(154,106

)

 

 

(311,192

)

 

 

(361,314

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(826,612

)

Movements with P&L Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(60,573

)

 

 

60,573

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(24,779

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,779

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

423,002

 

 

 

(423,002

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

 

 

244,074

 

 

 

445,054

 

 

 

67,264

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

756,392

 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

 

 

(226,555

)

 

 

601,910

 

 

 

921,399

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,296,754

 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Foreign exchange and other movements

 

 

(85,307

)

 

 

(164,172

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(249,479

)

Other movements with no P&L impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(257,026

)

 

 

257,026

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,138

 

 

 

(1,138

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

 

 

36,652

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(36,652

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period

 

 

(31,508

)

 

 

(330,971

)

 

 

(1,310,183

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,672,662

)

Write-offs

 

 

7,780

 

 

 

81,720

 

 

 

323,500

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

413,000

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

 

 

904,291

 

 

 

1,270,258

 

 

 

1,703,166

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,877,715

 

The following table further explains changes in the gross carrying amount of specific segment portfolio to help explain their significance to the changes in the loss allowance:

F-79


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Retail like Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

28,022,638

 

 

 

3,521,997

 

 

 

802,398

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

32,347,033

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(566,583

)

 

 

566,583

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(106,715

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

106,715

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(61,468

)

 

 

61,468

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

355,843

 

 

 

(355,843

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,276

 

 

 

(3,276

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(6,202,481

)

 

 

(1,062,828

)

 

 

(358,539

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(7,623,848

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

17,476,427

 

 

 

2,679,052

 

 

 

1,321,045

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,476,524

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

204,089

 

 

 

4,429

 

 

 

126,809

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

335,327

 

Inflation effect

 

 

(9,042,974

)

 

 

(1,136,558

)

 

 

(258,934

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(10,438,466

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

 

 

30,140,244

 

 

 

4,158,640

 

 

 

1,797,686

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

36,096,570

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

93,010,615

 

 

 

14,300,942

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

109,917,812

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(2,127,658

)

 

 

2,127,658

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(688,232

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

688,232

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(373,079

)

 

 

373,079

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

2,094,139

 

 

 

(2,094,139

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

32,103

 

 

 

(32,103

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(5,384,216

)

 

 

(1,611,202

)

 

 

(1,108,128

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(8,103,546

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

24,098,264

 

 

 

6,011,249

 

 

 

1,474,390

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

31,583,903

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

1,355,335

 

 

 

120,613

 

 

 

220,377

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,696,325

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

(30,014,751

)

 

 

(4,614,949

)

 

 

(841,045

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(35,470,745

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

 

 

82,343,496

 

 

 

13,899,196

 

 

 

3,381,057

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

99,623,749

 

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

122,301,109

 

 

 

8,215,665

 

 

 

809,668

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

131,326,442

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(555,567

)

 

 

555,567

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(9,894

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,894

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

469,663

 

 

 

(469,663

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(36,157,200

)

 

 

(3,276,411

)

 

 

1,525,251

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(37,908,360

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

80,611,231

 

 

 

4,520,606

 

 

 

49,053

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

85,180,890

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

5,423,721

 

 

 

(807,299

)

 

 

388,318

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,004,740

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

(38,807,684

)

 

 

(2,651,215

)

 

 

(261,282

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(41,720,181

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

 

 

133,275,379

 

 

 

6,087,250

 

 

 

2,520,902

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

141,883,531

 

F-80


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Naranja

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

41,039,891

 

 

 

7,400,401

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

51,375,287

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(3,933,644

)

 

 

3,933,644

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(1,398,286

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,398,286

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,288,696

)

 

 

1,288,696

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,883

 

 

 

(21,883

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

1,127,915

 

 

 

(1,127,915

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

 

 

18,738

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(18,738

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(724,768

)

 

 

(727,919

)

 

 

(1,810,868

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(3,263,555

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

16,179,401

 

 

 

767,534

 

 

 

1,003,388

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,950,323

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

 

 

18,384

 

 

 

21,332

 

 

 

(39,716

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

(13,243,671

)

 

 

(2,388,129

)

 

 

(947,130

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(16,578,930

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

 

 

39,083,960

 

 

 

6,612,135

 

 

 

3,787,030

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

49,483,125

 

Retail like Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of January 1, 2017

 

 

24,312,706

 

 

 

1,169,795

 

 

 

472,030

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

25,954,531

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(977,594

)

 

 

977,594

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(98,440

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

98,440

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(40,969

)

 

 

40,969

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,791

 

 

 

(12,791

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

270,525

 

 

 

(270,525

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(10,394,945

)

 

 

(687,029

)

 

 

(358,303

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(11,440,277

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

21,198,887

 

 

 

2,931,419

 

 

 

707,794

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,838,100

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

(1,457,820

)

 

 

(338,653

)

 

 

(51,951

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,848,424

)

Inflation Effect

 

 

(4,830,681

)

 

 

(232,426

)

 

 

(93,790

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(5,156,897

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

28,022,638

 

 

 

3,521,997

 

 

 

802,398

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

32,347,033

 

Retail Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of  January 1, 2017

 

 

73,592,991

 

 

 

10,300,527

 

 

 

2,209,276

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

86,102,794

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(2,677,919

)

 

 

2,677,919

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(788,355

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

788,355

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(451,953

)

 

 

451,953

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

53,083

 

 

 

(53,083

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

3,471,756

 

 

 

(3,471,756

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(7,860,281

)

 

 

(2,394,705

)

 

 

(1,554,807

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(11,809,793

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

37,281,613

 

 

 

9,754,613

 

 

 

1,430,839

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

48,467,065

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

4,612,978

 

 

 

(120,178

)

 

 

(227,318

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,265,482

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

(14,622,168

)

 

 

(2,046,608

)

 

 

(438,960

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(17,107,736

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

93,010,615

 

 

 

14,300,942

 

 

 

2,606,255

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

109,917,812

 

F-81


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Wholesale Portfolio

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of January 1, 2017

 

 

98,531,831

 

 

 

989,840

 

 

 

554,188

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100,075,859

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(1,307,936

)

 

 

1,307,936

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(99,272

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

99,272

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(55,374

)

 

 

55,374

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

61,382

 

 

 

(61,382

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(71,205,950

)

 

 

(785,321

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(71,991,271

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

116,853,630

 

 

 

7,856,759

 

 

 

225,382

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

124,935,771

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

(955,314

)

 

 

(840,121

)

 

 

(14,438

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,809,873

)

Inflation Effect

 

 

 

 

(19,577,262

)

 

 

(196,672

)

 

 

(110,110

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(19,884,044

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

122,301,109

 

 

 

8,215,665

 

 

 

809,668

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

131,326,442

 

Naranja

 

 

 

Stage 1

 

 

Stage 2

 

 

Stage 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12-month

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Lifetime

 

 

Purchased

credit-

impaired

 

 

Total

 

Gross carrying amount as of January 1, 2017

 

 

40,052,780

 

 

 

10,167,226

 

 

 

3,251,395

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

53,471,401

 

Transfers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

 

 

(2,177,809

)

 

 

2,177,809

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

 

 

(832,017

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

832,017

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,265,342

)

 

 

1,265,342

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,315

 

 

 

(2,315

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

 

 

3,233,170

 

 

 

(3,233,170

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

 

 

66,293

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(66,293

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial assets derecognized during the period other

   than writte-offs

 

 

(720,307

)

 

 

(1,045,183

)

 

 

(1,754,350

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(3,519,840

)

New financial assets originated or purchased

 

 

9,370,544

 

 

 

2,621,787

 

 

 

55,611

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,047,942

 

Modification of contractual cash flows of financial assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Changes in interest accrual

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FX and other movements

 

 

5,312

 

 

 

(4,919

)

 

 

(393

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

 

 

(7,958,075

)

 

 

(2,020,122

)

 

 

(646,019

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(10,624,216

)

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2017

 

 

41,039,891

 

 

 

7,400,401

 

 

 

2,934,995

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

51,375,287

 

 

The following tables explain the changes in the loss allowance between the beginning and the end of the annual period due to these factors:

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   5,514,025   2,554,594   6,230,445   —      14,299,064 

Inflation effect

   (2,119,898  (2,350,556  (2,434,533  —      (6,904,987

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (498,483  498,483   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (118,204  —     118,204   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   387,515   (387,515  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (336,064  336,064   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   198,995   —     (198,995  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     361,066   (361,066  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   1,024,326   679,012   1,779,747   —      3,483,085 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   (129,815  1,080,703   1,028,008   —      1,978,896 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   1,010,684   9,351,243   2,365,584   —      12,727,511 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   651,290   1,716,169   335,600   —      2,703,059 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (966,200  (539,085  (3,305,109  —      (4,810,394
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2020

   4,954,235   12,628,050   5,893,949   —      23,476,234 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Like Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   480,463   199,468   3,423,368   —      4,103,299 

Inflation effect

   (217,336  (395,100  (1,202,902  —      (1,815,338

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (36,222  36,222   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (3,402  —     3,402   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   29,362   (29,362  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (8,796  8,796   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   (17,165  —     17,165   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     72,278   (72,278  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   396,426   133,391   1,107,514   —      1,637,331 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   1,213,269   384,169   58,150   —      1,655,588 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (1,192,104  1,471,030   541,170   —      820,096 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   104,533   377,770   283,658   —      765,961 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (198,619  (110,198  (2,336,304  —      (2,645,121
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2020

   559,205   2,130,872   1,831,739   —      4,521,816 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Wholesale Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   679,001   301,216   6,116,429   —      7,096,646 

Inflation effect

   (562,741  (201,577  (1,742,132  —      (2,506,450

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (60,395  60,395   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (13  —     13   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   5,354   (5,354  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (17,065  17,065   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   —     —     —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     —     —     —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   516,802   85,037   43,764   —      645,603 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   118,388   26,417   13   —      144,818 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   1,521,179   363,383   779,725   —      2,664,287 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   455,386   138,548   134,717   —      728,651 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (713,244  (127,897  (4,742,793  —      (5,583,934
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2020

   1,959,717   623,103   606,801   —      3,189,621 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Naranja  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   2,754,583   958,629   6,379,153   —      10,092,365 

Inflation effect

   (1,139,035  (319,282  (1,896,750  —      (3,355,067

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (72,171  72,171   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (145,729  —     145,729   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   —     (155,018  155,018   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   173,949   (173,949  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   108,373   —     (108,373  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     13,578   (13,578  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   2,549,927   199,345   168,275   —      2,917,547 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   265,208   66,142   186,064   —      517,414 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   —     —     —     —      —   

Foreign exchange and other movements

   773,817   124,733   391,352   —      1,289,902 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (1,561,281  (197,194  (3,558,405  —      (5,316,880
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2020

   3,707,641   589,155   1,848,485   —      6,145,281 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   5,446,096   4,853,535   5,360,348   —      15,659,979 

Inflation effect

   (2,638,825  (2,033,094  (2,699,649  —      (7,371,568

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (737,405  737,405   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (76,120  —     76,120   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   629,942   (629,942  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (454,456  454,456   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   28,855   —     (28,855  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     47,182   (47,182  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   1,327,881   774,816   3,411,401   —      5,514,098 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   1,186,973   (329,590  49,940   —      907,323 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (235,416  1,000,727   265,557   —      1,030,868 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   1,147,613   116,244   1,016,936   —      2,280,793 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (565,569  (1,528,233  (1,628,627  —      (3,722,429
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   5,514,025   2,554,594   6,230,445   —      14,299,064 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Like Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   559,063   586,665   2,470,639   —      3,616,367 

Inflation effect

   (297,080  (247,408  (1,587,345  —      (2,131,833

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (33,806  33,806   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (1,955  —     1,955   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   23,109   (23,109  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (39,816  39,816   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   1,600   —     (1,600  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     12,684   (12,684  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   324,042   96,077   2,747,257   —      3,167,376 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   61,555   (13,733  137,977   —      185,799 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (66,337  49,762   377,340   —      360,765 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   156,997   34,393   839,392   —      1,030,782 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (246,725  (289,853  (1,589,379  —      (2,125,957
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   480,463   199,468   3,423,368   —      4,103,299 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Wholesale Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   1,101,084   162,022   1,398,416   —      2,661,522 

Inflation effect

   (644,265  (116,256  (1,698,724  —      (2,459,245

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (38,584  38,584   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (79  —     79   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   84,927   (84,927  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (1,398  1,398   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   3   —     (3  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     56,497   (56,497  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   524,555   127,939   287,888   —      940,382 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   (151,260  9,780   5,051,844   —      4,910,364 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (22,269  155,158   16,239   —      149,128 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   291,778   63,427   1,445,286   —      1,800,491 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (466,889  (109,610  (329,497  —      (905,996
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   679,001   301,216   6,116,429   —      7,096,646 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Naranja  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   2,882,959   3,858,958   4,373,067   —      11,114,984 

Inflation effect

   (1,447,146  (1,502,938  (2,545,295  —      (5,495,379

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (69,501  69,501   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (146,043  —     146,043   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   926,454   (926,454  —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (926,550  926,550   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   12,958   —     (12,958  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     3,767   (3,767  —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   147,103   1,287,841   4,156,431   —      5,591,375 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   537,543   452,605   582,337   —      1,572,485 

Changes to model assumptions and methodologies

   (421,414  (944,633  (11,813  —      (1,377,860

Foreign exchange and other movements

   601,532   204,060   1,357,907   —      2,163,499 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Write-offs and other movements

   (269,862  (617,528  (2,589,349  —      (3,476,739
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2019

   2,754,583   958,629   6,379,153   —      10,092,365 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

   2,290,310   1,920,604   3,510,570   —      7,721,484 

Inflation effect

   (739,086  (619,787  (1,132,871  —      (2,491,744

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (76,341  76,341   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (27,194  —     27,194   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   129,152   (129,152  —     —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   1,424,772   2,882,551   3,384,236   —      7,691,559 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   2,800,850   1,974,132   3,925,774   —      8,700,756 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   97,818   55,599   (20,473  —      132,944 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Transfers:

       

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (85,466  85,466   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     60,031   (60,031  —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (454,185  (1,281,318  (4,359,517  —      (6,095,020
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   5,446,096   4,853,535   5,360,348   —      15,659,979 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Like Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

   464,424   266,037   1,291,276   —      2,021,737 

Inflation effect

   (149,871  (85,853  (416,696  —      (652,420

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (8,191  8,191   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (1,556  —     1,556   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   20,053   (20,053  —     —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   379,522   410,461   1,817,884   —      2,607,867 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   252,137   186,400   1,099,662   —      1,538,199 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   35,695   34,068   184,701   —      254,464 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Transfers:

       

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (6,147  6,147   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     6,587   (6,587  —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (433,150  (213,026  (1,507,304  —      (2,153,480
       

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   559,063   586,665   2,470,639   —      3,616,367 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Wholesale Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

   443,517   94,680   1,033,797   —      1,571,994 

Inflation effect

   (143,127  (30,550  (333,605  —      (507,282

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (3,920  3,920   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (375  —     375   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   5,858   (5,858  —     —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   834,593   90,364   —     —      924,957 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   309,539   82,253   160,037   —      551,829 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   (14,289  20,924   524,932   —      531,567 

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Transfers:

       

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (12,880  12,880   —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (330,712  (80,831  —     —      (411,543
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   1,101,084   162,022   1,398,416   —      2,661,522 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Naranja  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2017

   1,893,842   2,660,280   3,566,912   —      8,121,034 

Inflation effect

   (611,149  (858,476  (1,151,051  —      (2,620,676

Movements with P&L Impact

       

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (232,792  232,792   —     —      —   

Transfer from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (84,391  —     84,391   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   451,410   (451,410  —     —      —   

New Financial Assets Originated or Purchased

   1,077,725   1,539,491   1,086,139   —      3,703,355 

Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs

   748,465   2,540,874   4,918,665   —      8,208,004 

Foreign exchange and other movements

   (269,272  (439,982  —     —      (709,254

Other movements with no P&L impact

       

Transfers:

       

Transfer from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (587,160  587,160   —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   20,239   —     (20,239  —      —   

Transfer from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     22,840   (22,840  —      —   

Write-offs and other movements

   (111,118  (800,291  (4,676,070  —      (5,587,479
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss Allowance as of December 31, 2018

   2,882,959   3,858,958   4,373,067   —      11,114,984 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The following table further explains changes in the gross carrying amount of specific segment portfolio to help explain their significance to the changes in the loss allowance:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   109,088,241   43,711,621   7,919,820   —      160,719,682 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (13,927,874  13,927,874   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (1,547,026  —     1,547,026   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to stage 1

   9,476,779   (9,476,779  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (1,510,981  1,510,981   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     559,745   (559,745  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   290,100   —     (290,100  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (11,928,884  (3,444,031  (3,940,595  —      (19,313,510

New financial assets originated or purchased

   29,264,738   8,648,366   2,189,870   —      40,102,974 

FX and other movements

   25,161,879   9,429,822   935,254   —      35,526,955 

Inflation Effect

   (28,959,131  (11,603,914  (2,102,436  —      (42,665,481
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2020

   116,918,822   50,241,723   7,210,075   —      174,370,620 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail like Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   46,764,260   7,028,411   4,508,535   —      58,301,206 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (3,290,768  3,290,768   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (132,027  —     132,027   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   1,697,439   (1,697,439  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (110,371  110,371   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     142,658   (142,658  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   32,005   —     (32,005  —     

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (17,132,751  (1,255,604  (2,968,605  —      (21,356,960

New financial assets originated or purchased

   76,897,926   4,573,084   1,465,317   —      82,936,327 

FX and other movements

   13,347,534   2,851,237   512,835   —      16,711,606 

Inflation Effect

   (12,414,283  (1,865,798  (1,196,859  —      (15,476,940
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2020

   105,769,335   12,956,946   2,388,958   —      121,115,239 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Wholesale Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   280,598,191   8,256,549   6,638,965   —      295,493,705 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (6,918,520  6,918,520   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   —     —     —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   471,842   (471,842  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (132,221  132,221   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     —     —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   —     —     —     —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (102,627,396  (2,758,287  (325,587  —      (105,711,270

New financial assets originated or purchased

   218,915,986   4,227,395   81,296   —      223,224,677 

FX and other movements

   (52,209,009  (289,643  (3,968,340  —      (56,466,992

Inflation Effect

   (74,489,053  (2,191,826  (1,762,417  —      (78,443,296
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2020

   263,742,041   13,558,645   796,138   —      278,096,824 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Naranja  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   64,077,108   3,453,393   8,242,112   —      75,772,613 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (1,125,451  1,125,451   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (1,376,997  —     1,376,997   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   —     (505,324  505,324   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   869,079   (869,079  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     23,171   (23,171  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   183,698   —     (183,698  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (2,811,379  (942,188  (5,698,219  —      (9,451,786

New financial assets originated or purchased

   46,738,397   1,058,663   273,158   —      48,070,218 

FX and other movements

   (440,215  38,646   92,235   —      (309,334

Inflation Effect

   (16,893,380  (927,015  (2,212,479  —      (20,032,874
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2020

   89,220,860   2,455,718   2,372,259   —      94,048,837 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

   172,450,615   29,108,855   7,080,891   —      208,640,361 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (37,581,890  37,581,890   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (2,165,255  —     2,165,255   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   13,388,560   (13,388,560  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (1,915,261  1,915,261   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     74,220   (74,220  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   49,640   —     (49,640  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (20,427,940  (5,018,864  (4,264,363  —      (29,711,167

New financial assets originated or purchased

   26,894,580   9,264,446   4,491,277   —      40,650,303 

FX and other movements

   16,827,627   (1,808,697  (866,741  —      14,152,189 

Inflation Effect

   (60,347,696  (10,186,408  (2,477,900  —      (73,012,004
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   109,088,241   43,711,621   7,919,820   —      160,719,682 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Retail like Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

   63,122,213   8,709,371   3,764,864   —      75,596,448 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (4,996,285  4,996,285   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (245,369  —     245,369   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   828,828   (828,828  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (406,583  406,583   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     26,100   (26,100  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   7,576   —     (7,576  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (20,470,141  (4,219,661  (2,287,429  —      (26,977,231

New financial assets originated or purchased

   28,523,815   2,004,755   3,724,145   —      34,252,715 

FX and other movements

   2,082,732   (205,253  6,163   —      1,883,642 

Inflation Effect

   (22,089,109  (3,047,775  (1,317,484  —      (26,454,368
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   46,764,260   7,028,411   4,508,535   —      58,301,206 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Wholesale Portfolio  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

   279,116,409   12,748,427   5,279,483   —      297,144,319 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (8,442,902  8,442,902   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (8,821  —     8,821   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   2,469,057   (2,469,057  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (28,659  28,659   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     123,716   (123,716  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   972   —     (972  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (127,647,061  (6,101,582  (161,928  —      (133,910,571

New financial assets originated or purchased

   225,010,476   4,050,575   430,415   —      229,491,466 

FX and other movements

   4,728,212   (4,048,564  3,025,715   —      3,705,363 

Inflation Effect

   (94,628,151  (4,461,209  (1,847,512  —      (100,936,872
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   280,598,191   8,256,549   6,638,965   —      295,493,705 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Stage 1  Stage 2  Stage 3        
Naranja  12-month  Lifetime  Lifetime  Purchased
credit-
impaired
   Total 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2018

   81,852,887   13,847,683   7,931,114   —      103,631,684 

Transfers:

       

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2

   (1,511,927  1,511,927   —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 3

   (2,532,826  —     2,532,826   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1

   3,537,875   (3,537,875  —     —      —   

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 3

   —     (3,074,964  3,074,964   —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 2

   —     7,711   (7,711  —      —   

Transfers from Stage 3 to Stage 1

   26,448   —     (26,448  —      —   

Financial assets derecognized during the period other than write-offs

   (2,185,596  (1,586,931  (3,469,725  —      (7,242,252

New financial assets originated or purchased

   14,124,048   1,344,667   1,174,583   —      16,643,298 

FX and other movements

   (590,047  (212,942  (192,062  —      (995,051

Inflation Effect

   (28,643,754  (4,845,883  (2,775,429  —      (36,265,066
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross carrying amount as of December 31, 2019

   64,077,108   3,453,393   8,242,112   —      75,772,613 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Use of information

Grupo Financiero Galicia, according to IFRS 9 standards, uses all information available, past, present and future to identify and estimate expected credit loss.

Operational Risk

The operational risk management is understood as the identification, assessment, monitoring, control and mitigation of this risk. It is an ongoing process carried out throughout the Group, which fosters a risk management culture at all organization levels through an effective policy and a program led by Senior Management.

Identification

The starting point of the operational risk management is the identification of risks and their association with the controls established to mitigate them, considering internal and external factors that may affect the process development. The results of this exercise are entered into a log of risks, which acts as a central repository of the nature and status of each risk and controls thereof.

Assessment

Once risks have been identified, the size in terms of impact, frequency and likelihood of risk occurrence is determined, considering the existing controls. The combination of impact with likelihood of occurrence determines the risk exposure level. Finally, the estimated risk levels are compared to pre-established criteria, considering the balance of potential benefits and adverse results.

Monitoring

The monitoring process allows detecting and correcting the possible deficiencies in operational risk management policies, processes and procedures and their update.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Risk Control and Mitigation

F-82


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The control process ensures compliance with internal policies and analyzes risks and responses to avoid, accept, mitigate or share them, by aligning them with the risk tolerance defined.

IT Risk

The Group manages the IT risk inherent to its products, activities and business processes. It also manages the risk associated with the material information systems, technology and information security processes. It also covers the risks derived from subcontracted activities and from services rendered by providers.

Reputational Risk

The reputational risk may result from the materialization of other risks: Legal, Compliance, Operational, Technological, Strategic, Market, Liquidity, Credit, etc.

The groups of interest are at the core of management, being considered upon establishing any type of mitigation measure.

Banco Galicia'sGalicia’s reputational risk management function was allocated to the Compliance Management Division, seeking to obtain a more comprehensive vision and be able to make immediate decisions that protect the entity'sentity’s image and reputation by using tools that enable to monitor and follow up to the perception of different groups of interest.

Banco Galicia defined an internal policy to reduce the occurrence of reputational events with negative impact, by defining a governance model with roles and responsibilities, and identifying critical scenarios that require management and visibility.

Contacts have been established with key business areas, devising a work scheme based on synergy and ongoing communication in order to spread the risk culture across the organization.

The Reputational Crisis Committee is in charge of becoming aware of the events that may affect the Bank'sBank’s reputation. In the face of an event of such characteristics, all the necessary information is gathered in the shortest time possible in order to be able to make assertive decisions, formally declare the crisis situation, if appropriate, and define the action plan to alleviate the crisis. In addition, such committee determines the communication strategy to be followed, considering the groups of interest involved. Finally, the strategy and related actions are followed to tackle the crisis.

Strategic Risk

Strategic risk is that which arises from an inappropriate business strategy or an adverse change in forecasts, parameters, goals and other functions that support such strategy.

It represents the possibility of fluctuations in placements that prevent Banco Galicia or its subsidiaries from obtaining the expected results of operations. ThisThese potential affected results of operations would give rise to lower income or higher costs regardless of what was budgeted.

Money Laundering Risk

As regards the control and prevention of asset laundering and funding of terrorist activities, Banco Galicia complies with the regulations set forth by the Argentine Central Bank, the Financial Information Unit and Law No. 25246, as amended, which creates the Financial Information Unit (U.I.F.)(UIF), within the purview of Argentina’s Ministry of Treasury and Public Finance with functional autarchy. The Financial Information Unit is in charge of analyzing, addressing and reporting the information received, in order to prevent and avoid both asset laundering and funding of terrorist activities.

The Bank has promoted the implementation of measures designed to fight against the use of the international financial system by criminal organizations. For such purposes, Banco Galicia has control policies, procedures and structures that are applied using a “risk-based approach”, which allow for the monitoring of transactions, pursuant to the "customer profile"“customer profile” (defined individually based on the information and documentation related to the economic and financial condition of the customer), in order to detect such transactions that should be considered unusual, and to report them to the U.I.F.UIF in applicable cases. The Anti-Money Laundering Management Division (“PLA”, as per its initials in Spanish) is in charge of managing this activity, through the implementation of control and prevention procedures as well as the communication thereof to the rest of the organization by drafting the related handbooks and training all employees. In addition, the management of this risk is regularly reviewed by Internal Audit.

The Bank has appointed a director as Compliance Officer, pursuant to Resolution 121/11, as amended, handed down by the U.I.F.,UIF, who shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with and implementation of the proceedings and obligations on the issue.

The Bank contributes to the prevention and mitigation of risks from these transaction-related criminal behaviors, by being involved in the international regulatory standards adoption process.

F-83


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Cybersecurity Risk

The use of technologies in place facilitates us a significant number of tools that expedite and improve the Bank'sBank’s processes, having a positive impact on our products and services. However, along with the above-mentioned benefits, risks and/or threats related to these new opportunities provided by digital technologies appear.

The cybersecurity-related risk is a matter inherent to the introduction of these new technologies. On one hand, such risk management stands out among Banco Galicia'sGalicia’s main goals, and, on the other, all the personnel'spersonnel’s as well as customers'customers’ awareness of the considerations as regards the use of the above-mentioned technologies. In this respect, it is vital for the organization to understand thoroughly its internal processes, the tools used and the available techniques to mitigate cybersecurity-related risks.

NOTE 47.46. CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS

a) Tax Issues

At the date of these consolidated financial statements, provincial tax collection authorities, as well as tax collection authorities from the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, are in the process (in different degrees of completion) of conducting reviews and assessments mainly in respect of matters resulting from applying turnover tax.

These proceedings and their possible effects are constantly being monitored. Even though it is considered that it has complied with its tax liabilities in full pursuant to current regulations, the provisions deemed adequate pursuant to the evolution of each proceeding have been set up.

b) Consumer Protection Associations

Consumer Protection Associations, on behalf of consumers, have filed claims against Banco Galicia with regard toregarding the collection of certain financial charges.

The Group believes that the resolution of these controversies will not have a significant impact on its financial condition.

c) Penalties Imposed on Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and Summary Proceedings Commenced by the Argentine Central Bank

The penalties imposed and the summary proceedings commenced by the Argentine Central Bank are detailed in Note 54.52.

The provisions for contingencies recorded are as follows:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Other Contingencies

 

 

1,329,142

 

 

 

760,379

 

 

 

594,461

 

For Commercial Lawsuits/Legal Affairs

 

 

1,058,636

 

 

 

527,338

 

 

 

455,462

 

For Labor Lawsuits

 

 

96,311

 

 

 

52,095

 

 

 

41,408

 

For Claims and Credit Cards

 

 

1,097

 

 

 

1,620

 

 

 

2,021

 

For Guarantees Granted

 

 

1,142

 

 

 

1,686

 

 

 

2,104

 

For Other Contingencies

 

 

171,956

 

 

 

177,640

 

 

 

93,466

 

Termination Benefits

 

 

86,926

 

 

 

109,295

 

 

 

83,322

 

Court Deposits Dollarization Difference under Communiqué "A" 4686

 

 

27,949

 

 

 

20,229

 

 

 

21,296

 

Administrative, Disciplinary and Criminal Penalties

 

 

5,306

 

 

 

7,357

 

 

 

10,134

 

Total

 

 

1,449,323

 

 

 

897,260

 

 

 

709,213

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Other Contingencies

   3,708,589    3,672,138 

For Commercial Lawsuits/Legal matters

   2,758,425    2,862,007 

For Labor Lawsuits

   268,689    230,095 

For Claims and Credit Cards

   1,097    1,493 

For Guarantees Granted

   1,142    1,555 

For Other Contingencies

   458,412    343,701 

For Termination Benefits

   220,824    233,287 

Difference for Dollarization of Judicial Deposits—Communication “A” 4686

   62,402    60,372 

Administrative, Disciplinary and Criminal Penalties

   5,306    7,224 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   3,776,297    3,739,734 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 48.47. OFFSETTING OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the statement of financial position where the Group currently has a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

The disclosures in the following tables include financial assets and liabilities that:

-

are offset in the Group's consolidated balance sheet;

are offset in the Group’s consolidated statement of financial position; or

-

are subject to a master netting for offsetting required

are subject to a netting agreement or similar agreement that covers similar financial instruments, regardless of whether they are offset in the consolidated balance sheet.

Similar agreements include derivative offsetting agreements and master netting agreements with clearing houses. Similar financial instruments, include derivatives, loans and other financing, and otherregardless of whether they are offset in the consolidated statement of financial liabilities. position.

Financial instruments such as loans and deposits are not disclosed in the following tables since they are not offset in the consolidated balance sheet.statement of financial position.

F-84


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial instruments subject to offsetting, master netting agreements and similar agreements as of December 31, 20182020 and 2019 are as follows:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts Subject to Master

Netting Agreement Not

Offset in the Financial

Statements

 

 

Total Net

Amount

 

Financial Instrument

 

Gross

Amount (a)

 

 

Gross amounts set off in the balance sheet (b)

 

 

Net amounts presented in the balance sheet

(c)=(a)-(b)

 

 

Financial

Instruments

(d)

 

 

Cash

Collaterals

Received (e)

 

 

(c)-(d)-(e)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

113,420,510

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

113,420,510

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,042,254

 

 

 

110,378,256

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,792,170

 

 

 

6,530

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,223,847

 

 

 

561,793

 

Total Assets Subject to Offsetting

 

 

115,212,680

 

 

 

6,530

 

 

 

115,206,150

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,266,101

 

 

 

110,940,049

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,842,319

 

 

 

(6,530

)

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,223,847

 

 

 

611,942

 

Liabilities from Financing of Credit Card Purchases

 

 

36,894,587

 

 

 

 

 

 

36,894,587

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,042,254

 

 

 

33,852,333

 

Total Liabilities Subject to Offset

 

 

38,736,906

 

 

 

(6,530

)

 

 

38,730,376

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,266,101

 

 

 

34,464,275

 

 

   Offsetting effects on Statement of
Financial Position
   Related amounts not
offset
 

12.31.20

  Gross
Amount
   Offset
Amount
   Net
amounts in
Statement
Financial
Position
   Subject to
netting
agreements
  Total Net
Amount
 

Financial Assets

         

Derivate Instruments

   27,671    —      27,671    (25,086  2,585 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   27,671    —      27,671    (25,086  2,585 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Financial Liabilities

         

Derivate Instruments

   31,493    —      31,493    (25,086  6,407 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   31,493    —      31,493    (25,086  6,407 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

   Offsetting effects on Statement of
Financial Position
   Related amounts not
offset
 

12.31.19

  Gross
Amount
   Offset
Amount
   Net
amounts in
Statement
Financial
Position
   Subject to
netting
agreements
  Total Net
Amount
 

Financial Assets

         

Derivate Instruments

   116,438    —      116,438    (99,124  17,314 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   116,438    —      116,438    (99,124  17,314 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Financial Liabilities

         

Derivate Instruments

   170,930    —      170,930    (99,124  71,806 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   170,930    —      170,930    (99,124  71,806 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

NOTE 49.48. OFF-BALANCE SHEET ITEMS

In the normal course of business and in order to meet customers'customers’ financing needs, off-balance sheet transactions are performed. These instruments expose the Group to the credit risk, in addition to loans recognized in assets. These financial instruments include credit lending commitments, letters of credit reserve, guarantees granted and acceptances.

The same credit policies for agreed credits, guarantees and loan granting are used. Outstanding commitments and guarantees do not represent an unusually high credit risk.

Agreed Credits

They are commitments to grant loans to a customer in a future date, subject to compliance with certain contractual agreements that usually have fixed maturity dates or other termination clauses and may require a fee payment.

Commitments are expected to expire without resorting to them. The total amounts of agreed commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Each customer’s solvency is assessed case by case.

Guarantees Granted

The issuing bank commits to reimbursing the loss to the beneficiary if the secured debtor does not comply with its obligation upon maturity.

Export and Import Documentary Credits

They are conditional commitments issued by the Group to secure a customer’s compliance towards a third party.

Responsibilities for Foreign Trade Transactions

They are conditional commitments for foreign trade transactions.

Our exposure to credit loss upon the other party’s default in the financial instrument is represented by the contractual notional amount of the same investments.

The credit exposure for these transactions is detailed below.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Agreed Credits

33,133,90727,162,163

They are commitments to grant loans to a customer in a future date, subject to compliance with certain contractual agreements that usually have fixed maturity dates or other termination clauses and may require a fee payment.

Commitments are expected to expire without resorting to them. The total amounts of agreed commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Each customer's solvency is evaluated case by case.

Guarantees Granted

The issuing bank commits to reimbursing the loss to the beneficiary if the secured debtor does not comply with its obligation upon maturity.

Documentary Export and Import Documentary Credits

2,483,0053,534,722

They are conditional commitments issued by the Group to secure a customer's compliance towards a third party.Guarantees Granted

12,658,94221,963,779

ResponsibilitiesLiabilities for Foreign Trade TransactionsOperations

They are conditional commitments for foreign trade transactions.

Our exposure to credit loss upon the other party's default in the financial instrument is represented by the contractual notional amount of the same investments.

The credit exposure for these transactions is detailed below.

916,7512,317,141

The fees and commissions related to the items mentioned above as of the indicated dates were as follows:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

For Agreed Credits

   19,432    141,340 

For Documentary Export and Import Credits

   104,595    123,828 

For Guarantees Granted

   72,070    327,608 

The credit risk of these instruments is essentially the same as that involved in lending credit facilities to customers.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

To grant guarantees to our customers, we may require counter-guarantees, which, classified by type, amount to:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Other Preferred Guarantees Received

   65,887    1,265,645 

Other Guarantees Received

   285,247    713,086 

Additionally, checks to be debited and credited, as well as other elements in the collection process, such as, notes, invoices and miscellaneous items, are recorded in memorandum accounts until the related instrument is approved or accepted.

The risk of loss in these offsetting transactions is not significant.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Values to be Debited

   7,001,365    7,311,215 

Values to be Credited

   10,518,835    9,197,463 

Values for Collection

   85,197,420    52,424,444 

The Group acts as trustee by virtue of trust agreements to secure obligations derived from several agreements between parties. The amounts of trust funds and securities held in custody as of the indicated dates are as follows:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Trust Funds

   8,780,506    9,480,177 

Securities Held in Escrow

   804,332,490    633,438,634 

These trusts are not included in the consolidation since the Group does not exert control on them.

NOTE 49. TRANSFER OF FINANCIAL ASSETS

All portfolio sales carried out by the Group are without recourse; therefore, they all qualify for the full derecognition of financial assets.

When this derecognition takes place, the difference between the book value and the value in the offsetting entry is charged to Income.

NOTE 50. NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST

The following tables provide information about each subsidiary that has a non-controlling interest.

The non-controlling equity investment percentages and votes as of the indicated dates are as follows:

Company

  

Place of Business

  12.31.20  12.31.19 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

  Códoba - Argentina   0.00  17.00

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

  CABA - Argentina   0.01  0.01

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

  CABA - Argentina   0.00  0.00

Galicia Seguros S.A.

  CABA - Argentina   0.00  0.00

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

  CABA - Argentina   0.00  17.00

Ondara S.A.

  CABA - Argentina   0.00  16.15

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

  Códoba - Argentina   0.00  17.00

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

  CABA - Argentina   0.00  17.00

Changes in the Group’s non-controlling interests as of the indicated dates were as follows:

Company

  Balance as
of

12.31.19
  Purchases /
Contributions
/ Sales
  Cash
Dividends
  Profit
Sharing in
income
(loss)

for the
Year
  Balance as
of

12.31.20
 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

   (26,636  —     —     (49,983  (76,619

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

   4   —     —     (1  3 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

   4   —     —     (4  —   

Galicia Seguros S.A.

   5   —     —     (5  —   

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   (20,522)��  —     —     (50,273  (70,795

Ondara S.A.

   11,382   —     —     (879  10,503 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   3,439,901   —     —     514,371   3,954,272 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

   534,426   (4,135,824  (143,844  (72,119  (3,817,361
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   3,938,564   (4,135,824  (143,844  341,107   3 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Company

  Balance as
of

12.31.18
   Purchases /
Contributions
/ Sales
   Cash
Dividends
   Profit
Sharing in
income
(loss)

for the
Year
  Balance as
of

12.31.19
 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

   24,327    —      —      (50,963  (26,636

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

   4    —      —      —     4 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

   4    —      —      —     4 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

   5    —      —      —     5 

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   —      —      —      (20,522  (20,522

Ondara S.A.

   12,660    —      —      (1,278  11,382 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   3,121,583    —      —      318,318   3,439,901 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

   448,887    179,986    —      (94,447  534,426 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   3,607,470    179,986    —      151,108   3,938,564 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Company

  Balance as
of

12.31.17
   Purchases /
Contributions
/ Sales
  Cash
Dividends
  Profit
Sharing in
income
(loss)

for the
Year
  Balance as
of

12.31.18
 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

   27,814    —     —     (3,487  24,327 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

   4    —     —     —     4 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

   4    —     —     —     4 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

   5    —     —     —     5 

Naranja Digital Compañía Financiera S.A.U.

   —      —     —     —     —   

Ondara S.A.

   14,815    —     109   (2,264  12,660 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   5,688,995    (1,613,587  (287,822  (666,003  3,121,583 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

   453,788    —     85,004   (89,905  448,887 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

   6,185,425    (1,613,587  (202,709  (761,659  3,607,470 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Summary information on subsidiaries is detailed in Note 15.

NOTE 51. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Related parties are all those entities that directly, or indirectly through other entities, have control over another, are under the same controlling party or may have significant influence on another entity’s financial or operational decisions.

The Group controls another entity when it has the power over other entities’ financial and operating decisions and also has a share of profits thereof.

Additionally, the Group considers that it has joint control when there is an agreement between parties regarding the control of a common economic activity.

Finally, those cases where the Group has significant influence is due to the capacity to take part in decisions about the company’s financial policy and operations. Those shareholders who hold an equity investment equal to or higher than 20% of the total votes of the Group or its subsidiaries are considered to have significant influence. To determine those situations, not only the legal aspects are observed, but also the nature and substance of the relationship.

Furthermore, the key personnel of the Group’s Management (Board of Directors members and Managers of the Group and its subsidiaries), as well as the entities over which the key personnel may have significant influence or control are considered as related parties.

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Agreed Commitments

 

 

14,947,369

 

 

 

17,223,135

 

 

 

16,756,545

 

Export and Import Documentary Credits

 

 

1,080,047

 

 

 

2,005,839

 

 

 

1,198,508

 

Guarantees Granted

 

 

16,292,630

 

 

 

3,493,810

 

 

 

2,090,979

 

Responsibilities for Foreign Trade Transactions

 

 

234,609

 

 

 

674,101

 

 

 

1,080,067

 

The fees and commissions related to the items mentioned above as of the indicated dates were as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

For Agreed Credits

 

 

121,515

 

 

 

89,471

 

For Export and Import Documentary Credits

 

 

68,882

 

 

 

31,459

 

For Guarantees Granted

 

 

82,041

 

 

 

45,058

 

F-85


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The credit risk of these instruments is essentially the same as that involved in lending credit facilities to customers.

To grant guarantees to our customers, we may require counter-guarantees, which, classified by type, amount to:3

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Other Preferred Guarantees Received

 

 

6,796,492

 

 

 

67,032

 

 

 

111,747

 

Other Guarantees Received

 

 

296,362

 

 

 

471,506

 

 

 

445,115

 

Additionally, checks to be debited and credited, as well as other elements in the collection process, such as, notes, invoices and miscellaneous items, are recorded in memorandum accounts until the related instrument is approved or accepted.

The risk of loss in these offsetting transactions is not significant.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Checks and Drafts to be Debited

 

 

3,448,362

 

 

 

3,110,534

 

 

 

3,710,115

 

Checks and Drafts to be Credited

 

 

4,443,878

 

 

 

4,553,727

 

 

 

4,716,211

 

Values for Collection

 

 

27,625,864

 

 

 

34,014,115

 

 

 

33,736,055

 

The Group acts as trustee by virtue of trust agreements to secure obligations derived from several agreements between parties. The amounts of trust funds and securities held in custody as of the indicated dates are as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Trust Funds

 

 

5,868,530

 

 

 

13,165,493

 

 

 

15,077,049

 

Securities Held in Custody

 

 

432,046,616

 

 

 

552,773,188

 

 

 

476,985,232

 

These trusts are not included in the consolidation since the Group does not exert control on them.

NOTE 50. TRANSFER OF FINANCIAL ASSETS

All transfers of financial assets qualify for derecognition of financial assets in their entirety.

In derecognizing a financial asset, the difference between the carrying amount and the amount received as consideration is charged to income.

The Group mainly makes non-recourse portfolio sales. The loan portfolio sold, net of allowances, amounted to: $561,812 as of December 31, 2018, $480,021 as of December 31, 2017 and $226,798 as of January 1, 2017; whereas cash flows received from such transactions amounted to: $138,510 as of December 31, 2018, $45,987 as of December 31, 2017 and $166,454 as of January 1, 2017.

NOTE 51. NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST

The following tables provide information about each subsidiary that has a non-controlling interest.

The non-controlling equity investment percentages and votes as of the indicated dates are as follows:

Company

 

Place of Business

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

Córdoba – Argentina

 

 

17.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

 

0.01

%

 

 

0.01

%

 

 

0.01

%

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

 

0.00

%

 

 

0.00

%

 

 

0.00

%

Galicia Seguros S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

 

0.00

%

 

 

0.00

%

 

 

0.00

%

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

0.09

%

Ondara S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

 

16.15

%

 

 

21.85

%

 

 

21.85

%

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

Córdoba – Argentina

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

41.20

%

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

Córdoba – Argentina

 

 

17.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires – Argentina

 

 

17.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

 

 

23.00

%

F-86


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Changes in the Group's non-controlling interests as of the indicated dates were as follows:

Company

 

Balance as of

12.31.17

 

 

Purchases /

Sales

 

 

Cash

Dividends

 

 

Share of

Profit (Loss)

for the Year

 

 

Balance as of

12.31.18

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

 

13,281

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,665

)

 

 

11,616

 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Ondara S.A.

 

 

7,074

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

52

 

 

 

(1,081

)

 

 

6,045

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

2,716,440

 

 

 

(770,472

)

 

 

(137,432

)

 

 

(318,010

)

 

 

1,490,526

 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

 

216,679

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

40,591

 

 

 

(42,929

)

 

 

214,341

 

Total

 

 

2,953,480

 

 

 

(770,472

)

 

 

(96,789

)

 

 

(363,685

)

 

 

1,722,534

 

Company

 

Balance as of

01.01.17

 

 

Purchases /

Sales

 

 

Cash

Dividends

 

 

Share of

Profit (Loss)

for the Year

 

 

Balance as of

12.31.17

 

Cobranzas Regionales S.A.

 

 

13,751

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(470

)

 

 

13,281

 

Galicia Broker Asesores de Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Galicia Retiro Compañía de Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Galicia Seguros S.A.

 

 

2

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2

 

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

 

5,688

 

 

 

(5,688

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Ondara S.A.

 

 

6,801

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

273

 

 

 

7,074

 

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

 

91,871

 

 

 

(91,871

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

2,371,252

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(159,604

)

 

 

504,792

 

 

 

2,716,440

 

Tarjetas Regionales S.A.

 

 

230,201

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

6,909

 

 

 

(20,431

)

 

 

216,679

 

Total

 

 

2,719,570

 

 

 

(97,559

)

 

 

(152,695

)

 

 

484,164

 

 

 

2,953,480

 

Summary information on subsidiaries is detailed in Note 16.

NOTE 52. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Related parties are considered to be all those entities that directly, or indirectly through other entities, have control over another, are under the same controlling party or may have significant influence on another entity's financial or operational decisions.

The Group controls another entity when it has the power over other entities' financial and operating decisions and also has a share of profits thereof.

Additionally, the Group considers that it has joint control when there is an agreement between parties regarding the control of a common economic activity.

Finally, those cases where the Group has significant influence is due to the capacity to take part in decisions about the company's financial policy and operations. Those shareholders who hold an equity investment equal to or higher than 20% of the total votes of the Group or its subsidiaries are considered to have significant influence. To determine those situations, not only the legal aspects are observed, but also the nature and substance of the relationship.

Furthermore, the key personnel of the Group's Management (Board of Directors members and Managers of the Group and its subsidiaries), as well as the entities over which the key personnel may have significant influence or control are considered as related parties.

52.1.

51.1.

Controlling Entity

The Group is controlled by:

 

Name

Nature

Principal Line of Business

Place of Business

Equity Investment %

EBA Holding S.A.

54.09% of voting rightsFinancial and Investment Operations

Autonomous City of

Buenos Aires – Argentina

19.07

 

Nature

Principal Line of Business

Place of Business

Equity  Investment %

51.2.

Key Personnel’s Compensation

EBA Holding S.A.

55.11% of voting rights

Financial and Investment

Operations

Autonomous City of

Buenos Aires – Argentina

19.71%

Key Personnel's Compensation

The compensation earned by the Group's key personnel as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 amounts to $522,038 and $442,289,

The compensation earned by the Group’s key personnel as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 amounts to Ps.1,307,741 and Ps.976,364 respectively.

F-87


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

52.2.

51.3.

Key Personnel's Structure

Key personnel'sPersonnel’s Structure

Key personnel’s structure as of the indicated dates is as follows:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Regular Directors

   79    74 

General Manager

   2    2 

Area Managers

   13    10 

Department Managers

   46    67 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   140    153 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

12.31.17

 

Directors

 

67

 

 

67

 

General Manager

 

1

 

 

1

 

Division Managers

 

11

 

 

11

 

Department Managers

 

70

 

 

66

 

Total

 

149

 

145

 

52.3.

51.4.

Related Party Transactions

The following table shows the total credit assistance granted by the Group to key personnel, syndics, majority shareholders, as well as all individuals who are related to them by a family relationship of up to the second degree of consanguinity or first degree by affinity (pursuant to the Argentine Central Bank’s definition of related individual) and any entity affiliated with any of these parties, not required to be consolidated.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Total Amount of Credit Assistance

   1,991,604    1,499,910 

Number of Addressees (quantities)

   269    283 

- Natural Persons

   208    229 

- Legal Entities

   61    54 

Average Amount of Credit Assistance

   7,404    5,300 

Maximum Assistance

   508,945    596,026 

Financial assistance, including the one that was restructured, was granted in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other non-related parties. Besides, this financial assistance did not involve more than the normal risk of loan losses or present other unfavorable features.

The information about the credit assistance granted to affiliates based on the quality of receivables, their documentation and preferred guarantees is stated in Schedule N.

51.5.

Amounts of Related Party Transactions

The amounts of related party transactions conducted as of the indicated dates are as follows:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Assets

    

Cash and Due from Banks

   1,392,563    4,634,039 

Debt Securities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   738,302    60,112 

Other Financial Assets

   1,659    10,390 

Loans and Other Financing

   3,354,891    2,693,645 

Other Debt Securities

   170,656    178,791 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

   —      555 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

   547    —   

Other Non-financial Assets

   —      2,953 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Assets

   5,658,618    7,580,485 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities

    

Deposits

   1,707,028    5,587,455 

Derivative Financial Instruments

   —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

   849,064    748,351 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and other Financial Institutions

   2,153,464    916,266 

Debt Securities Issued

   908,958    238,903 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

   23    5,457 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

   40,081    84,053 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

   5,658,618    7,580,485 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19   12.31.18 

Income (Loss)

      

Net Income (Loss) from Interest

   226,467    490,269    58,588 

Net Fee Income (Expense)

   (1,085,741   (1,201,852   (71,981

Net Income from Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   (904   —      —   

Other Operating Income (Expense)

   (1,193,475   (1,576,194   (2,682,854

Income from Insurance Business

   2,005,616    2,389,538    2,632,514 

Administrative Expenses

   121,002    174,543    64,887 

Other Operating Expenses

   14,459    9,282    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Income

   87,424    285,586    1,154 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 52. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE ARGENTINE CENTRAL BANK

52.1. CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEPOSIT INSURANCE SYSTEM

Law No. 24485 and Decree No. 540/95 established the creation of the Deposit Insurance System to cover the risk attached to bank deposits, in addition to the system of privileges and safeguards envisaged in the Financial Institutions Law.

The National Executive Branch through Decree No. 1127/98 established the maximum amount for this insurance system to demand deposits and time deposits denominated either in Pesos and/or in foreign currency. Such limit was set at Ps.1,500 as from May 1, 2020.

This system does not cover deposits made by other financial institutions (including time deposit certificates acquired through a secondary transaction), deposits made by parties related to the Bank, either directly or indirectly, deposits of securities, acceptances or guarantees and those deposits set up at an interest rate exceeding the one established regularly by the Argentine Central Bank.

Deposits acquired through endorsement, placements made as a result of incentives other than interest rates and locked-up balances from deposits and other excluded transactions are also excluded. This system has been implemented through the creation of the Deposit Insurance Fund (“FGD”), which is managed by a company called Seguros de Depósitos S.A. (“SEDESA”). SEDESA’s shareholders are the Argentine Central Bank and the financial institutions in the proportion determined for each one by the Argentine Central Bank based on the contributions made to the fund.

The monthly contribution institutions should make to the FGD is 0.015% on the monthly average of total deposits.

52.2. RESTRICTED ASSETS

As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, the ability to freely dispose of the following assets is restricted, as follows:

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

a)

Cash and Government Securities

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

For transactions in ROFEX, MAE and BYMA

   3,905,372    1,782,587 

For debit / credit cards transactions

   3,020,109    3,083,168 

For attachments

   9,410    12,811 

Liquid offsetting entry required to operate as CNV agent

   64,020    14,641 

For contribution to M.A.E.’ s Joint Guarantee Fund (Fondo de Garantía Mancomunada)

   1,100    122,322 

Guarantees for the Regional Economies Competitiveness Program

   184,744    444,927 

For other transactions (includes guarantees linked to rental contracts)

   19,802    20,313 

b)

Special Guarantees Accounts

Special guarantee accounts have been opened at the Argentine Central Bank as collateral for transactions involving electronic clearing houses, checks for settling debts and other similar transactions as of the indicated dates, which amount to:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Escrow Accounts

   11,444,550    10,245,260 

c)

Deposits in favor of the Argentine Central Bank’s definition of related individual) and any entity affiliated with any of these parties, not required to be consolidated.Bank

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Unavailable deposits due to exchange transactions

   533    726 

d)

Equity Investments

The account “Equity Investments” includes 1,222,406 non-transferable non-endorsable registered ordinary shares in Electrigal S.A., the transfer of which is subject to approval by the national authorities, according to the terms of the previously executed concession contract.

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Total Amount of Credit Assistance

 

 

956,439

 

 

 

999,909

 

Number of Recipients (Amounts)

 

 

329

 

 

 

364

 

- Natural Persons

 

 

269

 

 

 

299

 

- Entities / Corps.

 

 

60

 

 

 

65

 

Average Amount of Credit Assistance

 

 

2,907

 

 

 

2,748

 

Maximum Assistance

 

 

362,713

 

 

 

288,089

 

e)

Contributions to Garantizar S.G.R.’s Risk Fund

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., in its capacity as sponsoring partner of Garantizar S.G.R.’s Risk Fund, is committed to maintaining the contributions made to the fund for two (2) years.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Contributions to the Fund

   990,000    1,347,792 

INVIU S.A.U.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Liquid offsetting entry required to operate as CNV agents

   18,469    22,753 

Guarantees linked to surety bonds

   7,417    —   

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Attachments arising from judicial cases

   973    3,188 

Guarantees linked to rental contracts

   7,076    9,209 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Liquid offsetting entry required to operate as collective investment products administration agents of mutual funds, as required by CNV(*)

   13,903    13,803 

 

(*)

Financial assistance, including the one that was restructured, was granted in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other non-related parties. Besides, this financial assistance did not involve more than the normal risk of loan losses or present other unfavorable features.

The information about the credit assistance granted to affiliates based on the quality of receivables, their documentation and preferred guarantees is stated in Schedule N.

52.4.

Amounts of Related Party Transactions

The amounts of related party transactions conducted as of the indicated dates are as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

252,651

 

 

 

197,441

 

 

 

465,569

 

Debt Securities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

141,610

 

 

 

264,821

 

 

 

1,399,877

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,183

 

 

 

-

 

Other Financial Assets

 

 

58,999

 

 

 

285,189

 

 

 

1,162,427

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

3,111,291

 

 

 

797,000

 

 

 

1,587,429

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

131,767

 

 

 

76,305

 

 

 

-

 

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

(5

)

 

 

6,539

 

 

 

(85,185

)

Total Assets

 

 

3,696,313

 

 

 

1,644,478

 

 

 

4,530,117

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

1,348,503

 

 

 

229,612

 

 

 

482,911

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,183

 

 

 

200,917

 

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

1,197,643

 

 

 

696,125

 

 

 

874,669

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

699

 

 

 

355,045

 

Debt Securities Issued

 

 

523,372

 

 

 

341,125

 

 

 

1,375,576

 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

43,295

 

 

 

34,704

 

 

 

75,273

 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

26,827

 

 

 

(689,233

)

 

 

223,599

 

Total Liabilities

 

 

3,139,640

 

 

 

630,215

 

 

 

3,587,990

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Income (Loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income (Loss) from Interest

 

 

27,975

 

 

 

42,461

 

Net Fee Income (Expense)

 

 

(1,166,922

)

 

 

(43,012

)

Net Income (Loss) from Instruments Measured at Fair Value through

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,313

 

Underwriting Income from Insurance Business

 

 

1,257,000

 

 

 

1,602,674

 

Other Operating Income (Expense)

 

 

149,803

 

 

 

(1,588,821

)

Administrative Expenses

 

 

(30,983

)

 

 

29,072

 

Other Operating Expenses

 

 

-

 

 

 

105

 

Total Income

 

 

236,873

 

 

 

47,792

 

F-88


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 53. ACQUISITION OF DEBT SECURITIES UNDER SECTION 35 BIS OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS LAW

Banco Finansur S.A. was temporarily suspended to operate by the Argentine Central Bank from November 9, 2017 to February 9, 2018. On January 12, 2018, Banco Galicia reported about its participation in the process under Section 35 bis of Financial Institutions Law. In addition, on March 9, 2018, Banco Galicia reported that the Argentine Central Bank approved the transfer of certain secured liabilities of Banco Finansur S.A. in exchange for debt securities by creating a Private Financial Trust called Fidensur.

Banco Galicia holds debt securities but it does not hold the participation certificate in the Financial Trust not it is the Beneficiary of the Financial Trust. As Consequence we understand that the Group is neither exposed to variable returns nor to the Trust's residual risk. Therefore, the holding was recorded as an investment in a financial debt instrument measured at amortized cost.

As a result of the foregoing, the trust was not consolidated in these consolidated financial statements.

The Group recorded debt securities in the "Other Debt Securities" account, which are measured at amortized cost in the amount of $74,775 as of December 31, 2018.

NOTE 54. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE ARGENTINE CENTRAL BANK

54.1.Contribution to the Deposit Insurance System

Law No. 24485 and Decree No. 540/95 established the creation of the Deposit Insurance System to cover the risk attached to bank deposits, in addition to the system of privileges and safeguards envisaged in the Financial Institutions Law.

The National Executive Branch through Decree No. 1127/98 established the maximum amount for this insurance system to demand deposits and time deposits denominated either in Pesos and/or in foreign currency. Such limit was set at $1,000 as from March 1, 2019.

This system does not cover deposits made by other financial institutions (including time deposit certificates acquired through a secondary transaction), deposits made by parties related to the Bank, either directly or indirectly, deposits of securities, acceptances or guarantees and those deposits set up at an interest rate exceeding the one established regularly by the Argentine Central Bank.

Deposits acquired through endorsement, placements made as a result of incentives other than interest rates and locked-up balances from deposits and other excluded transactions are also excluded. This system has been implemented through the creation of the Deposit Insurance Fund (“FGD”), which is managed by a company called Seguros de Depósitos S.A. (“SEDESA”). SEDESA’s shareholders are the Argentine Central Bank and the financial institutions in the proportion determined for each one by the Argentine Central Bank based on the contributions made to the fund.

The monthly contribution institutions should make to the FGD is 0.015% on the monthly average of total deposits.

54.2.RESTRICTED ASSETS

As of December 31, 2018,2020, it corresponds to 1,620,000 shares of Fima Premium Class “B” Mutual Fund.

Galicia Securities S.A.

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

For transactions in the market

   48,015    —   

Liquid offsetting entry required to operate as CNV agents

   11,270    —   

Guarantees linked to surety bonds

   1,129    —   

The total amount of restricted assets for the reasons stated above in the aforementioned controlled companies, as of the indicated dates, is as follows:

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Total Restricted Assets

   19,747,892    17,123,500 

52.3. TRUST ACTIVITIES

a)

Trust Contracts for Purposes of Guaranteeing Compliance with Obligations:

Purpose: In order to guarantee compliance with contractual obligations, the parties to these agreements have agreed to deliver to Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., as fiduciary property, amounts to be applied according to the following breakdown:

Date of Contract

  

Trustor

  Balances of Trust
Funds
   Maturity (1) 

04.17.12

  Exxon Mobil   13,540    04.19.21 

09.12.14

  Coop. de Trab. Portuarios   1,009    09.12.22 

04.14.16

  Rios Belt   121    12.31.21 

05.24.17

  MSU   33    12.31.21 
    

 

 

   

Total

     14,703   
    

 

 

   

(1)

These amounts shall be released monthly until settlement date of trustor obligations or maturity date, whichever occurs first.

b)

Financial Trust Contracts:

Purpose: To administer and exercise the fiduciary ownership of the trust assets until the redemption of debt securities and participation certificates:

Contract date

  

Trust

  Balances of Trust Funds   Maturity(*) 

12.06.06

  GAS I   133,278    12.31.21 

05.14.09

  GAS II   8,614,193    12.31.22 

06.08.11

  MILA III   17,118    12.31.21 

01.09.11

  MILA IV   295    12.31.21 

06.12.17

  MILA XVIII   919    01.31.24 
    

 

 

   

Total

     8,765,803   
    

 

 

   

(*)

Estimated date, since maturity date shall occur at the ability to freely disposetime of the following assets is restricted, as follows:

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

a)

Cash and Government Securities

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

For transactions carried out at RO.F.EX.

 

 

379,006

 

 

 

345,717

 

 

 

782,773

 

For repo transactions haircuts

 

 

584,631

 

 

 

185,799

 

 

 

336,918

 

For debit / credit cards transactions

 

 

2,151,565

 

 

 

1,748,680

 

 

 

1,370,107

 

For attachments

 

 

211

 

 

 

326

 

 

 

188

 

Liquidity required to conduct transactions as agents at the C.N.V.

 

 

20,410

 

 

 

25,233

 

 

 

33,752

 

For the contribution to the M.A.E.’ s Joint Guarantee Fund (Fondo de

   Garantía Mancomunada)

 

 

260,210

 

 

 

20,970

 

 

 

20,016

 

Collaterals of Inter-American Development Bank's credit lines

 

 

85,067

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Guarantees under the Regional Economies Competitiveness Program (PROCER, as

   per its initials in Spanish)

 

 

165,665

 

 

 

301,965

 

 

 

279,224

 

For other transactions

 

 

11,953

 

 

 

11,524

 

 

 

10,928

 

b)

Special Guarantees Accounts

F-89


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Special guarantee accounts have been opened at the Argentine Central Bank as collateral for transactions involving electronic clearing houses, checks for settling debts and other similar transactions as of the indicated dates, which amount to:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Special Guarantees Accounts

 

 

5,188,169

 

 

 

5,329,804

 

 

 

4,285,315

 

c)

Deposits in favor of the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Unavailable deposits related to foreign exchange transactions

 

 

533

 

 

 

787

 

 

 

982

 

For custody and registrar agent of book-entry mortgage securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,164

 

Custody role of securities representing the investments in ANSES's Sustainability

   Guarantee Fund (FGS, as per its initials in Spanish).

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

868,336

 

d)

Equity Investments

The account “Equity Investments” includes 1,222,406 non-transferable non-endorsable registered ordinary shares in Electrigal S.A., the transfer of which is subject to approval by the national authorities, according to the terms of the previously executed concession contract.

e)

Contributions to Garantizar S.G.R.’s Risk Fund

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., in its capacity as sponsoring partner of Garantizar S.G.R.’s Risk Fund, is committed to maintaining the contributions made to the fund for two (2) years.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Contributions to the Fund

 

 

390,000

 

 

 

224,421

 

 

 

184,255

 

f)

Guarantees Granted for Direct Obligations

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

PROPARCO’s credit lines

 

 

-

 

 

 

58,661

 

 

 

91,486

 

Credit Program granted to the province of San Juan

 

 

-

 

 

 

75,211

 

 

 

60,316

 

Global Credit Program for the Micro-, Small- and Medium-sized Companies

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

11,763

 

FMO’s credit lines

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

33,109

 

Financial assets were given as collateral as part of these agreements for loans borrowed by Banco Galicia related to first pledges.

Galicia Valores S.A.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Liquidity required to conduct transactions as agents at the C.N.V.

 

 

9,568

 

 

 

6,792

 

 

 

7,232

 

Share of Mercado de Valores de Buenos Aires

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,961

 

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Attachments in connection with lawsuits

 

 

1,803

 

 

 

1,688

 

 

 

521

 

Guarantees related to lease agreements

 

 

4,993

 

 

 

6,870

 

 

 

7,593

 

For transactions carried out at RO.F.EX.

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

216,577

 

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Liquidity required to operate as agent for the management of collective investment

   products corresponding to mutual funds, as required by the C.N.V.(*)

 

 

9,094,885

 

 

 

4,504,899

 

 

 

2,118,935

 

Tarjetas del Mar S.A.

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Guarantees related to lease agreements(*)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

171

 

Total restricted assets for the items stated in the subsidiaries mentioned above as of the indicated dates are as follows:

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Total Restricted Assets

 

 

18,348,669

 

 

 

12,849,347

 

 

 

10,728,622

 

54.3.Trust Activities

As of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, the Group recorded participation certificates and debt securities of financial trusts held in its own portfolio for $6,301,550, $3,374,285 and $1,819,850 respectively.

F-90


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Trusts have been excluded from consolidation for neither has the Bank control over them nor has it any of the following:

-

power over the trust to run material activities;

-

exposure or right to variable returns;

-

capacity to have influence on the amount of returns to be received for the involvement.

a)

Trust Contracts for Purposes of Guaranteeing Compliance with Obligations:

Purpose: In order to guarantee compliance with contractual obligations, the parties to these agreements have agreed to deliver to Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., as fiduciary property, amounts to be applied according to the following breakdown:

Date of Contract

 

Trustor

 

Balances of Trust Funds

 

 

Maturity Date(1)

04.17.12

 

Exxon Mobil

 

 

5,310

 

 

04.19.19

04.29.13

 

Profertil

 

 

28

 

 

12.31.18

09.12.14

 

Coop. de Trab. Portuarios

 

 

1,033

 

 

09.12.20

04.14.16

 

Rios Belt

 

 

198

 

 

04.14.19

05.24.17

 

MSU

 

 

130

 

 

07.29.20

06.22.17

 

SACDE

 

 

1

 

 

06.22.20

06.28.17

 

Dist. Gas del Centro

 

 

258

 

 

12.31.18

07.19.17

 

Dist. Gas Cuyana

 

 

568

 

 

12.31.18

08.08.17

 

Dist. Gas del Centro

 

 

495

 

 

12.31.18

Total

 

 

 

 

8,021

 

 

 

(1)

These amounts shall be released monthly until settlement date of trustor obligations or maturity date, whichever occurs first.

b)

Financial Trust Contracts:

Purpose: To administer and exercise the fiduciary ownership of the trust assets until the redemption of debt securities and participation certificates:

Date of Contract

 

Trust

 

Balances of Trust Funds

 

 

Maturity Date(*)

12.06.06

 

Gas I

 

 

65,484

 

 

12.31.18

05.14.09

 

Gas II

 

 

5,545,230

 

 

12.31.22

02.10.11

 

Cag S.A.

 

 

421

 

 

12.31.18

06.08.11

 

Mila III

 

 

6,367

 

 

12.31.18

09.01.11

 

Mila IV

 

 

893

 

 

12.31.18

09.14.11

 

Cag S.A. II

 

 

638

 

 

12.31.18

02.13.14

 

Mila V

 

 

1,212

 

 

05.20.20

06.06.14

 

Mila VI

 

 

831

 

 

10.20.20

06.18.14

 

Red Surcos II

 

 

1,354

 

 

12.31.18

10.03.14

 

Mila VII

 

 

1,087

 

 

01.20.21

01.13.15

 

Red Surcos III

 

 

766

 

 

12.31.18

01.27.15

 

Mila VIII

 

 

4,417

 

 

06.15.21

05.18.15

 

Mila IX

 

 

4,074

 

 

09.15.21

08.24.15

 

Mila X

 

 

4,956

 

 

12.20.21

10.30.15

 

Mila XI

 

 

6,073

 

 

01.15.22

01.14.16

 

Mila XII

 

 

8,177

 

 

11.15.21

02.05.16

 

Red Surcos IV

 

 

900

 

 

12.31.18

05.13.16

 

Mila XIII

 

 

15,685

 

 

09.15.22

09.01.16

 

Mila XIV

 

 

17,252

 

 

01.31.23

10.27.16

 

Mila XV

 

 

23,714

 

 

03.31.23

01.10.17

 

Mila XVI

 

 

32,047

 

 

06.30.23

02.24.17

 

Mila XVII

 

 

52,113

 

 

09.30.23

05.29.17

 

Fedeicred Agro Series IV

 

 

121

 

 

12.31.18

06.12.17

 

Mila XVIII

 

 

62,932

 

 

01.31.24

06.21.17

 

Mas Cuotas Series VIII

 

 

743

 

 

12.31.18

08.16.17

 

Mas Cuotas Series IX

 

 

251

 

 

12.31.18

10.20.17

 

Mas Cuotas Series X

 

 

2,233

 

 

10.15.18

10.27.17

 

Mila XIX

 

 

450

 

 

05.31.24

02.16.18

 

Mila XX

 

 

88

 

 

09.30.24

Totals

 

 

 

 

5,860,509

 

 

 

(*)

Estimated date, since maturity date shall occur at the time of the distribution of all of trust assets.

c)

Activities as Security Agent:

c.1)

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. has been appointed Security Agent of the National Treasury’s endorsement guarantees in favor of ENARSA (Energía Argentina S.A.) that were assigned in favor of Nación Fideicomisos S.A. in its capacity as Trustee of the “ENARSA-BARRAGAN” and “ENARSA-BRIGADIER LOPEZ” financial trusts.

F-91


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Said endorsement guarantees the secure payment of all obligations arising from the above-mentioned trusts.of trust assets.

c)

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., in its capacityActivities as Security Agent, will take custody of the documents regarding the National Treasury’s endorsement guarantees and will be in charge of managing all legal and notarial proceedings with respect to the enforcement thereof.Agent:

As of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, the balances recorded from these transactions amount to US$1,364,097 and $408, respectively.

c.2)

c.1)

In April 2013, at the time of entering into the Contract for the Fiduciary Assignment and Trust for Guarantee Purposes “Profertil S.A.”, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. was appointed security agent with regard to the Chattel Mortgage Agreement, a transaction that was completed on June 18, 2013, which additionally secures all the obligations undertaken.

As of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, the balances recorded from these transactions amount to US$116,500.

All the transactions detailed above are recorded in off-balance sheet items - trust funds.

d)

Setting Up of Financial Trusts

As of December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, the Group recorded participation certificates and debt securities of financial trusts held in its own portfolio for $5,042,730, $3,406,706 and $1,866,441 respectively.

54.4. Compliance with the Regulations

54.4.1. Agents – Minimum Liquidity Requirement

Within the framework of Resolution No. 622/13 of the C.N.V., Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. has been registered, in such agency’s registry, as settlement and clearing agent –comprehensive- No. 22 (ALyC and AN – INTEGRAL), custodial agent of collective investment products corresponding to mutual funds No. 3 (ACPIC FCI), and manager of collective investment products at the registry of financial trustees No. 54.

As of December 31, 2018, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.’s Shareholders’ Equity exceeds that required by the C.N.V. to act as agent in the categories in which the Bank has been registered. Such requirement amounts to $32,000 with a minimum liquidity requirement of $16,000, which Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. paid with Argentine Central Bank’s monetary regulation instruments, which are held in custody at Caja de Valores (Depositor No. 100100) in the amount of $20,410.

Moreover, Galicia Valores S.A. has received the authorization to act as “Settlement and Clearing Agent and Trading Agent – Own”, as established by C.N.V.'s General Resolution No. 622/13. According to the minimum requirements established, the minimum shareholders' equity required to act in this agent's category amounts to $3,500 and the minimum liquidity amounts to $1,750.

As of December 31, 2018, the minimum liquidity is made up of a sight account opened at Banco Galicia in the amount of US$70.

54.4.2. Custodialappointed Security Agent of Collective Investment Products Corresponding to Mutual Funds

Furthermore,the National Treasury’s endorsement guarantees in compliance with Section 7favor of Chapter II, Title VENARSA (Energía Argentina S.A.) that were assigned in favor of that Resolution,Nación Fideicomisos S.A. in its capacity as custodial agent of collective investment products corresponding to mutual funds (depository)Trustee of the “FIMA ACCIONES”, “FIMA P.B. ACCIONES”, “FIMA RENTA EN PESOS”, “FIMA AHORRO PESOS”, “FIMA RENTA PLUS”, “FIMA PREMIUM”, “FIMA AHORRO PLUS”, “FIMA CAPITAL PLUS”, “FIMA ABIERTO PYMES”, “FIMA MIX I”, “FIMA RENTA DÓLARES I”“ENARSA-BARRAGAN” and “FIMA RENTA DOLARES II” funds, as of December 31, 2018, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. holds a total of 9,623,110,829 units under custody for a market value of $60,431,318, which is included in the “Depositors of Securities Held in Custody” account. As of previous fiscal year-end and January 1, 2017, the securities held in custody totaled 10,254,289,765 and 7,777,368,861 units and their market value amounted to $100,358,508 and $68,796,939, respectively.“ENARSA-BRIGADIER LOPEZ” financial trusts.

F-92


Said endorsement guarantees the secure payment of all obligations arising from the above-mentioned trusts.

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., as Security Agent, safeguarded the documentation of the National Treasury sureties and was responsible for managing all the legal and notarial aspects in relation to their execution. When the obligation was extinguished, sureties were returned to BICE Fideicomisos S.A. on October 22, 2019; at the closing of said year, the repayment of the expense fund was pending. Said expenses amounted to Ps. 555 as of December 31, 2019.

All the transactions detailed above are recorded in off-balance sheet items—trust funds.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

d)

The balancesCreation Up of the Mutual Funds as of the indicated dates are detailed as follows:Financial Trusts

As December 31, 2019, the Group records in its own portfolio, participation certificates and Debt Securities from financial trusts amounting to Ps.474,161, valued at amortized cost.

52.4. COMPLIANCE WITH THE REGULATIONS

52.4.1. Agents – Minimum Liquidity requirement

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

Within the framework of CNV Resolution No. 622/13, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. has been duly registered with such agency in the following categories: Escrow Agent for Collective Investment Products in the Financial Trustors’ Registry No. 54, and Settlement and Integral Compensation Agent No. 22 (AlyC and AN—INTEGRAL).

As of December 31, 2020, for the Escrow Agent for Collective Investment Products in the Financial Trustors’ Registry, the required Shareholders’ Equity amounts to Ps.61,104, and the minimum required offsetting entry is Ps.30,552.

For AlyC and AN—INTEGRAL, said requirement amounts to Ps. 30,253, with the minimum offsetting entry required of Ps. 15,126, which the Bank integrated with Treasury Bills in Argentine pesos for Ps. 64,020, registered in escrow accounts of Caja de Valores (Principal 100100).

Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A.

In accordance with the requirements set forth in CNV Resolution No. 792, the minimum Shareholders’ Equity required to operate as Escrow Agent for Collective Investment Products, Mutual Funds amounts to Ps.27,658 and the minimum offsetting entry amounts to Ps.13,829. Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A. integrated said requirement with 1,620,000 shares of Fondo Fima Premium Class “C”, equivalent to Ps.13,903.

Galicia Securities S.A.

In accordance with the requirements set forth in General Resolution No. 622, the ALyC and AN Integral must have a minimum Shareholders’ Equity equivalent to 470,350 Units of Purchasing Value (UVA), with said requirement amounting to Ps.30,253 as of December 31, 2020, and the minimum offsetting entry required is Ps.15,126. For Placement and Distribution Agents of Mutual Funds, said requirement amounts to Ps.2,500, and the minimum required liquid offsetting entry is Ps.1,250.

As of December 31, 2020 , Galicia Securities S.A. integrated said requirements in government securities for an amount of Ps.12,270 and a bank guarantee for Ps. 6,171.

INVIU S.A.U.

In accordance with the requirements set forth in General Resolution No. 622, the ALyC and AN Integral must have a minimum Shareholders’ Equity equivalent to 470,350 Units of Purchasing Value (UVA), with said requirement amounting to Ps.30,253 as of December 31, 2020, and the minimum offsetting entry required is Ps.15,126.

As of December 31, 2020, INVIU S.A.U. integrated said requirements in a demand account for an amount of thousand USD220.

52.4.2. Custodial Agent of Collective Investment Products Corresponding to Mutual Funds

Furthermore, in compliance with Section 7 of Chapter II, Title V of that Resolution, in its capacity as custodial agent of collective investment products corresponding to mutual funds (depository) of the “FIMA ACCIONES”, “FIMA P.B. ACCIONES”, “FIMA RENTA EN PESOS”, “FIMA AHORRO PESOS”, “FIMA RENTA PLUS”, “FIMA PREMIUM”, “FIMA AHORRO PLUS”, “FIMA CAPITAL PLUS”, “FIMA ABIERTO PYMES”, “FIMA MIX I”, “FIMA RENTA DÓLARES I” and “FIMA RENTA DOLARES II” funds, as of December 31, 2020, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. holds a total of 22,081,526,592 units under custody for a market value of Ps.192,415,131, which is included in the “Depositors of Securities Held in Custody” account. As the closing of previous fiscal year, the securities held in custody totaled 11,045,967,403 units and their market value amounted to Ps.109,892,525.

The balances of the Mutual Funds as of the indicated dates are detailed as follows:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Mutual Fund

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

FIMA Acciones

   590,257    548,757 

FIMA P.B. Acciones

   633,036    941,220 

FIMA Renta en pesos

   1,098,300    319,338 

FIMA Ahorro pesos

   7,252,021    3,626,852 

FIMA Renta Plus

   739,739    200,953 

FIMA Premium

   148,692,964    93,646,912 

FIMA Ahorro Plus

   12,706,534    3,718,984 

FIMA Capital Plus

   16,650,938    154,164 

FIMA Abierto PyMES

   758,538    795,135 

FIMA Mix I

   2,047,362    77,755 

FIMA Renta Dólares I (*)

   —      2,259,686 

FIMA Renta Dólares II (*)

   —      739,938 

FIMA Renta Fija Internacional

   1,172,774    2,735,979 

FIMA Acciones Latinoamericanas Dólares(*)

   72,668    126,852 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   192,415,131    109,892,525 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Mutual Fund

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

FIMA Acciones

 

 

328,125

 

 

 

609,485

 

 

 

217,062

 

FIMA P.B. Acciones

 

 

718,431

 

 

 

1,688,067

 

 

 

562,550

 

FIMA Renta en pesos

 

 

245,333

 

 

 

776,359

 

 

 

440,492

 

FIMA Ahorro pesos

 

 

9,891,974

 

 

 

30,744,494

 

 

 

29,398,557

 

FIMA Renta Plus

 

 

145,308

 

 

 

546,213

 

 

 

455,650

 

FIMA Premium

 

 

29,475,771

 

 

 

14,909,786

 

 

 

13,137,998

 

FIMA Ahorro Plus

 

 

9,967,609

 

 

 

25,452,146

 

 

 

18,784,320

 

FIMA Capital Plus

 

 

205,069

 

 

 

559,840

 

 

 

1,035,146

 

FIMA Abierto PyMES

 

 

312,788

 

 

 

390,089

 

 

 

344,786

 

FIMA Mix I

 

 

6,686

 

 

 

243,453

 

 

 

279,123

 

FIMA Renta Dólares I (*)

 

 

7,373,261

 

 

 

18,284,933

 

 

 

4,137,019

 

FIMA Renta Dólares II (*)

 

 

1,554,263

 

 

 

6,153,642

 

 

 

4,238

 

FIMA Renta Fija Internacional

 

 

193,618

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

FIMA Acciones Latinoamericanas Dólares(*)

 

 

13,082

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Total

 

 

60,431,318

 

 

 

100,358,507

 

 

 

68,796,941

 

(*)

(*)

Stated at the reference exchange rate of the U.S. Dollar set by the Argentine Central Bank. See Note 1.7.(b).

All the transactions detailed above are recorded in off-balance sheet items - securities held in custody.

The mutual funds detailed above have not been consolidated as the Group is not a controlling company thereof, since the depository role does not imply in this case:

-

power over the trust to run material activities;

-

exposure or right to variable returns;

-

capacity to have influence on the amount of returns to be received for the involvement.

54.4.3. Storage of Documents

Pursuant to General Resolution No. 629 of the C.N.V., Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. notes that it has supporting documents regarding accounting and management transactions, which are stored at AdeA (C.U.I.T. No. 30-68233570-6), Plant III located at Ruta Provincial 36 km 31.5 No. 6471 (CP 1888) Bosques, Province of Buenos Aires, with legal domicile at Av. Pte. Roque Sáenz Peña 832, 1st. floor, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.

54.5. Compliance with Minimum Cash Requirements:

As of December 31, 2018, the balances recorded as computable items are as follows:

 

 

Currency

 

 

Government Securities

 

Item

 

$

 

 

US$

 

 

Euros(*)

 

 

$

 

 

US$

 

Checking Accounts at the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

40,110,751

 

 

1,783,087 (1)

 

 

15 (3)

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Special Guarantees Accounts at the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

4,730,689

 

 

12,100 (2)

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Argentine Treasury Bonds in Pesos at Fixed Rate Due

   November 2020

 

 

8,755,174

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Liquidity Bills

 

 

20,804,813

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

60 EM Subaccount in CRYL (Center of Registration and

   Settlement) of Government Securities and Debt Instruments

   Issued by the Argentine Central Bank

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,032,796

 

 

364 (4)

 

Total Computable Items to Meet Minimum

   Cash Requirements

 

 

74,401,427

 

 

 

1,795,187

 

 

 

15

 

 

 

1,032,796

 

 

 

364

 

(*)

Stated in thousands of US$.

(1)

Equivalent to $67,415,488.

(2)

Equivalent to $457,480.

(3)Equivalent to $580.

(4)

Equivalent to $13,876.

54.6. Penalties Imposed on Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and Summary Proceedings Commenced by the Argentine Central Bank

Penalties Imposed on Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. Existing as of December 31, 2018:

U.I.F.’s Summary Proceedings No. 68/09. Penalty notification date: February 25, 2010. Reason for the imposition of the penalty: Alleged omission to report suspicious activities, in possible infringement of Act No. 25246. As a consequence of the aforementioned summary proceedings, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., one of its directors and one of its officers were punished with a fine in the amount of $4,483. Status of the proceedings: Division I of the Argentine Federal Court of Appeals in Administrative Matters partially revoked the penalties, releasing

F-93


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Eduardo A. Fanciulli from any liability and reducing the fines imposed. The U.I.F., Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and Mr. Enrique M. Garda Olaciregui filed federal extraordinary appeals before Argentine Supreme Court (CSJN). Accounting treatment: As of December 31, 2018, a provision for $5,306 is recorded, whereas a provision for $7,357 and $10,134 was recorded as of December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017, respectively.

Summary Proceedings No. 1544: Penalty notification date: November 9, 2018. Reason for the imposition of the penalty: Alleged breach of the provisions set out in Argentine Central Bank's Communiqué "A" 6242, SINAP 1 - 61. As a consequence of the aforementioned summary proceedings, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., three of its directors and certain relevant officers were punished with a fine in the amount of $1,497. Status of the proceedings: The Bank will file an appeal against the penalty with the Argentine Federal Court of Appeals in Administrative Matters of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, under the terms of section 42 of Law No. 21526, as amended by Law No. 24144.

54.7. ISSUANCE OF DEBT SECURITIES

The issuance of debt securities is detailed in Notes 28 and 29.

54.8. Restrictions Imposed on the Distribution of Profits

Pursuant to Section 70 of the General Corporations Law, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. should transfer 5% of the net income for the year to the Legal Reserve until 20% of the capital stock is reached, plus the balance of the Capital Adjustment account.

With respect to Banco Galicia, the Argentine Central Bank regulations require that 20% of the profits shown in the Income Statement at fiscal year-end, plus (or less), the adjustments made in previous fiscal years and, less, if any, the loss accumulated at previous fiscal year-end, be allocated to the legal reserve.

This proportion applies regardless of the ratio of the Legal Reserve fund to Capital Stock. Should the Legal Reserve be used to absorb losses, earnings shall be distributed only if the value of the Legal Reserve reaches 20% of the Capital Stock plus the Capital Adjustment.

The Argentine Central Bank sets rules for the conditions under which financial institutions can make distributions of profits. According to these rules, profits can be distributed as long as results of operations are positive after deducting not only the Reserves, which may be legally and statutory required, but also the following items from Retained Income: The difference between the carrying amount and the market value of public sector assets and/or debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank not valued at market price, the amounts capitalized for lawsuits related to deposits and any unrecorded adjustments required by the external auditors or the Argentine Central Bank.

Moreover, in order that a financial institution be able to distribute profits, said institution must comply with the capital adequacy rule, i.e. with the calculation of minimum capital requirements and the regulatory capital.

For these purposes, this shall be done by deducting from its assets and Retained Income all the items mentioned in the paragraph above. Moreover, in such calculation, a financial institution shall not be able to compute the temporary reductions that affect minimum capital requirements, computable regulatory capital or its capital adequacy.

Since January 2016, the Argentine Central Bank determined that banks shall meet an additional capital conservation buffer apart from the minimum capital requirement equal to 3.5% of risk-weighted assets. This shall be made up only of Tier 1 Common Capital, net of deductible items. Distribution of profits shall be restricted when the Bank’s computable regulatory capital level and structure is within the range of the capital conservation buffer.

The prior authorization of the Argentine Regulatory Agency of Financial and Foreign Exchange Institutions (SEFyC, as per its initials in Spanish) shall not be required for the distribution of profits, except in the cases where a financial institution is within the capital conservation buffer and to determine distributable profits the Tier 1 common capital range had not been increased by 1 percentage point, net of deductible items. Such restriction was established until March 31, 2020.

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.’s Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on March 16, 2006 decided to set the maximum limit for the distribution of dividends at 25% of the realized and liquid profits of each fiscal year. This restriction shall remain in force as long as the company’s Shareholders’ Equity is below $300,000.

Pursuant to the Price Supplement of the Class XXXVII Notes, Tarjeta Naranja S.A. has agreed not to distribute dividends that may exceed 50% of the company’s net income. This restriction also applies in the event of any excess over certain indebtedness ratios.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, profits resulting from the first-time application of IFRS may not be distributed; instead, such profits, if any, will be appropriated to a special reserve recorded under equity which might only be released for capitalization purposes, or otherwise to offset potential losses.

The Group may pay dividends to the extent that it has distributable retained earnings and distributable reserves calculated in accordance with the rules of the Argentine Central Bank described in See Note 1.1. Therefore, retained earnings included in the consolidated financial statements may not be wholly distributable.1.6.(b).

F-94


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Shareholders' equity under the rules of the Argentine Central Bank comprise the following captions:

All the transactions detailed above are recorded in off-balance sheet items—securities held in custody.

The mutual funds detailed above have not been consolidated as the Group is not a controlling company thereof, since the depository role does not imply in this case:

 

power over the trust to run material activities;

exposure or right to variable returns;

capacity to have influence on the amount of returns to be received for the involvement.

52.4.3. Storage of Documents

Pursuant to General Resolution No. 629 of the CNV, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. notes that it has supporting documents regarding accounting and management transactions, which are stored at AdeA (C.U.I.T. No. 30-68233570-6), Plant III located at Ruta Provincial 36 km 31.5 No. 6471 (CP 1888) Bosques, Province of Buenos Aires, with legal domicile at Av. Juramento 1775, 4th. floor, (CP 1428), Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.

52.5. COMPLIANCE WITH MINIMUM CASH REQUIREMENTS:

As of December 31, 2020, the balances recorded as computable items are as follows:

   Currency 

Item

  Ps.   USD   Euros(*) 

Checking Accounts held in Argentine Central Bank

   1,000    1,217,252    31 

Escrow Accounts held in Argentine Central Bank

   11,148,780    3,515    —   

National Treasury Bonds in Argentine Pesos computable for minimum cash

   18,343,599    —      —   

Liquidity Bills computable for minimum cash

   46,617,121    —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total for integration Minimum Cash

   76,110,500    1,220,767    31 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

12.31.18

(*)

Stated in thousands of USD.

Share Capital

1,426,765

Additional paid in Capital

10,951,132

Adjustments to Shareholders´equity

278,131

Legal reserve

340,979

Distribuitable reserves

25,103,198

Non distributable reserves

2,770,380

Profit for the year

14,427,034

Total Shareholder's equity under the rules of the Argentine Central Bank

55,297,619

Plan for the distribution

52.6. PENALTIES IMPOSED ON BANCO DE GALICIA Y BUENOS AIRES S.A.U. AND SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS COMMENCED BY THE ARGENTINE CENTRAL BANK

Penalties Imposed on Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. Existing as of December 31, 2020:

U.I.F.’s Summary Proceedings No. 68/09. Penalty notification date: February 25, 2010. Reason for the imposition of the penalty: Alleged omission to report suspicious activities, in possible infringement of Act No. 25246. As a consequence of the aforementioned summary proceedings, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., one of its directors and one of its officers were punished with a fine in the amount of Ps.4,483. Status of the proceedings: Division I of the Argentine Federal Court of Appeals in Administrative Matters partially revoked the penalties, releasing Eduardo A. Fanciulli from any liability and reducing the fines imposed. The UIF, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. and Mr. Enrique M. Garda Olaciregui filed federal extraordinary appeals before Argentine Supreme Court (CSJN). Accounting treatment: a provision of Ps.5,306 is recorded as of December 31, 2020.

Summary Proceedings No. 1544. Penalty notification date: November 9, 2018. Reason for the imposition of the penalty: Alleged breach of the provisions set out in Argentine Central Bank’s Communiqué “A” 6242, SINAP 1—61. As a consequence of the aforementioned summary proceedings, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., three of its directors and certain relevant officers. Status of the proceedings: On November 26, 2018, a direct appeal to the penalty was filed before the National Court of Appeals for Federal Administrative Disputes of the Federal Capital, under the terms of Article 42 of Law No. 21,526, amended by Law No. 24,144; Room V was drawn to issue judgment. On February 26, 2020 said Room V decided to reject the direct appeal and confirm the penalties, which was notified on February 27. Against said resolution, on March 12, 2020, an extraordinary federal appeal was filed which is actually being treated by Room V.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UIF Proceedings -Docket 867/13. Penalty Notification date: June 19, 2020. Reason of the Penalty: Alleged non-compliance with the provisions of Article 21 of the Anti-Money Laundering Law and alleged non-compliance with the provisions of UIF Resolution No. 121/11, especially with the provisions of Article 13 (subsections i and j, and section II); Article 14 (subsection h); Article 21 (subsection a); Article 23; and Article 24 (subsections d, e and h). These objections are related to the transactions monitoring system regarding prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing, and required information allegedly missing. Amount applied and responsible persons receiving penalties: Penalties for global amounts of Ps.440 applied to the Bank and eight Directors. Status of the Case: On September 14, 2020, the direct appeal to the penalty was filed before the National Court of Appeals for Federal Administrative Disputes of the Federal Capital, under the terms of Article 25 of Law No. 25,246, amended by Law No. 24,144; Room III, where the proceeding is pending, was designated to issue judgment.

The Group considers that the resolution of these proceedings will not have significant impact on its equity.

52.7. ISSUANCE OF DEBT SECURITIES

The issuance of debt securities is detailed in Notes 27 and 28.

52.8. RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF PROFITS

Pursuant to Section 70 of the General Corporations Law, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. should transfer 5% of the net income for the year to the Legal Reserve until 20% of the capital stock is reached, plus the balance of the Capital Adjustment account.

With respect to Banco Galicia, the Argentine Central Bank regulations require that 20% of the profits shown in the Income Statement at fiscal year-end, plus (or less), the adjustments made in previous fiscal years and, less, if any, the loss accumulated at previous fiscal year-end, be allocated to the legal reserve.

This proportion applies regardless of the ratio of the Legal Reserve fund to Capital Stock. Should the Legal Reserve be used to absorb losses, earnings shall be distributed only if the value of the Legal Reserve reaches 20% of the Capital Stock plus the Capital Adjustment.

The Argentine Central Bank sets rules for the conditions under which financial institutions can make distributions of profits. According to these rules, profits can be distributed as long as results of operations are positive after deducting not only the Reserves, which may be legally and statutory required, but also the following items from Retained Income: The difference between the carrying amount and the market value of public sector assets and/or debt instruments issued by the Argentine Central Bank not valued at market price, the amounts capitalized for lawsuits related to deposits and any unrecorded adjustments required by the external auditors or the Argentine Central Bank.

Moreover, in order that a financial institution be able to distribute profits, such institution must comply with the capital adequacy rule, i.e. with the calculation of minimum capital requirements and the regulatory capital.

For these purposes, this shall be done by deducting from its assets and Retained Income all the items mentioned in the paragraph above. Moreover, in such calculation, a financial institution shall not be able to compute the temporary reductions that affect minimum capital requirements, computable regulatory capital or its capital adequacy.

Since January 2016, the Argentine Central Bank determined that banks shall meet an additional capital conservation buffer apart from the minimum capital requirement equal to 3.5% of risk-weighted assets. This shall be made up only of Tier 1 Common Capital, net of deductible items. Distribution of profits shall be restricted when the Bank’s computable regulatory capital level and structure is within the range of the capital conservation buffer.

The Argentine Central Bank provided that income distribution must have its authorization. In said authorization process, the SEFYC will consider, among other elements, the total impact of credit losses determined according to IFRS 9. Likewise, the Argentine Central Bank issued Communication “A” 7181 where suspension of income distribution is set forth until June 30, 2021.

Tarjeta Naranja S.A.’s Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on March 16, 2006 decided to set the maximum limit for the distribution of dividends at 25% of the realized and liquid profits of each fiscal year. This restriction shall remain in force as long as the company’s Shareholders’ Equity is below Ps.300,000.

Pursuant to the Price Supplement of the Class XXXVII Notes, Tarjeta Naranja S.A. has agreed not to distribute dividends that may exceed 50% of the company’s net income. This restriction also applies in the event of any excess over certain indebtedness ratios.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, profits resulting from the first-time application of IFRS may not be distributed; instead, such profits, if any, will be appropriated to a special reserve recorded under equity which might only be released for capitalization purposes, or otherwise to offset potential losses.

The Group may pay dividends to the extent that it has distributable retained earnings and distributable reserves calculated in accordance with the rules of the Argentine Central Bank. Therefore, retained earnings included in the consolidated financial statements may not be wholly distributable.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Argentine Central Bank, through Communications “A” 5541 and its amendments, established a convergence plan towards the adoption of IFRS as issued by the IASB, and the interpretations issued by the IFRIC, for the entities under its supervision, effective for fiscal years commencing January 1, 2018, with certain exceptions currently including the non-application of item 5.5 (Impairment) of IFRS 9 to the financial instruments issued by the Non-Financial Public Sector.

Additionally, the Superintendence of Financial Institutions has established that the measurement of the investment in Prisma Medios de Pago SA, which is recognized at fair value through profit and loss under IFRS cannot exceed the proportional amount received in cash at the time of its sale.

The Group has presented its local financial statements under these rules on March 9, 2021.

Shareholders’ equity under the rules of the Argentine Central Bank comprise the following captions:

 

Unappropriated Retained Income(1)

42,357,973

To Special Reserve “First-time Application of IFRS”(2)

2,827,741

Subtotal

39,530,232

Distributable Amount

39,530,232

Distributed Income

To Discretionary Reserve

12,427,034

To Cash Dividends

2,000,000

To Common Shares (140.1773% of $1,426,765)

2,000,000

Unappropriated Retained Income(3)

37,530,232

(1)

It includes Unappropiated Retained Earnings, plus Discretionary Reserve, less purchase of minority interest.

12.31.20

(2)

According to the provisions of Communiqué “A” 6618, such reserve, which includes the amount of income resulting from the first-time application of IFRS, shall be set at the first Shareholders' Meeting to be held after fiscal year-end.

Share Capital

1,474,692

(3)

Relates to the Discretionary Reserve for Future Distributions of Profits.

Additional paid in Capital

17,281,187

54.9. Capital Management and Corporate Governance Transparency Policy

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Board of Directors

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.’s Board of Directors is the Company's highest management body. It is made up of nine directors and three alternate directors, who must have the necessary knowledge and skillsAdjustments to clearly understand their responsibilities and duties within the corporate governance, and to act with the loyalty and diligence of a good businessman.shareholders´ equity

61,548,313

As set out in its bylaws, the term of office for both directors and alternate directors is three (3) years; they are partially changed every year and may be reelected indefinitely.Legal reserve

714,107

The Company complies with the appropriate standards regarding total number of directors, as well as the number of independent directors. Furthermore, its bylaws provideDistributable reserves

116,312,804

Non distributable reserves

5,047,825

Retained results

(44,533,351

Profit for the flexibility necessary to adaptyear

26,439,048

Total Shareholder’s equity under the number of directors to the possible changes in the conditions in which the Company carries out its activities, from three (3) to nine (9) directors.

The Board of Directors complies, in every relevant respect, with the recommendations included in the Code on Corporate Governance as Schedule IV to Title IVrules of the regulations issued by the National Securities Commission (Text amended in 2013).Argentine Central Bank

184,284,625

It also monitors the application of the corporate governance policies provided for by the regulations in force through the Executive Committee, the Audit Committee and the Committee for Information Integrity. Periodically, the Committees provide the Board of Directors with information, and the Board gets to know the decisions of each Committee. What is appropriate is transcribed in the minutes drafted at the Board of Directors' meetings.

Executive Committee

In July 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.'s Board of Directors approved the creation of the Executive Committee, along with its governing rules and regulations. It is made up of five directors, and the purpose of its creation is to contribute to the conduction of the Company's

As exposed in the Statements of Changes in Equity, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has followed the option established in Art. 3, Paragraph b), Chapter III of Title Periodic Information Regime of CNV Standards, which stipulates, subject to approval by the shareholders annual general meeting, the absorption of negative retained earnings that may arise on the date of transition as a consequence of the inflation adjustment.

Negative retained earnings for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 amounted to thousand Ps. 18,094,303, so the Board of Directors will propose that they be absorbed, affecting for this purpose the Special Reserve arising from the first-time application of the IFRS and the remainder with the Optional Reserve for development of new businesses and support of investee companies.

Additionally, the Board of Directors will propose the distribution of cash dividends by an amount that, once adjusted according to inflation, in accordance with Art. 3, Paragraph e), Chapter III of Title Periodic Information Regime of CNV Standards, results in Ps. 1,500,000, through partial use of the Optional Reserve for Future Income Distribution.

52.9. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE TRANSPARENCY POLICY

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.

Board of Directors

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.’s Board of Directors is the Company’s highest management body. It is made up of nine directors and three alternate directors, who must have the necessary knowledge and skills to clearly understand their responsibilities and duties within the corporate governance, and to act with the loyalty and diligence of a good businessman.

As set out in its bylaws, the term of office for both directors and alternate directors is three (3) years; they are partially changed every year and may be reelected indefinitely.

The Company complies with the appropriate standards regarding total number of directors, as well as the number of independent directors. Furthermore, its bylaws provide for the flexibility necessary to adapt the number of directors to the possible changes in the conditions in which the Company carries out its activities, from three (3) to nine (9) directors.

The Board of Directors complies, in every relevant respect, with the recommendations included in the Code on Corporate Governance as Schedule IV to Title IV of the regulations issued by the National Securities Commission (Text amended in 2013).

It also monitors the application of the corporate governance policies provided for by the regulations in force through the Executive Committee, the Audit Committee and the Committee for Information Integrity. Periodically, the Committees provide the Board of Directors with information, and the Board gets to know the decisions of each Committee. What is appropriate is transcribed in the minutes drafted at the Board of Directors’ meetings.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Executive Committee

In July 2018, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.‘s Board of Directors approved the creation of the Executive Committee, along with its governing rules and regulations. It is made up of five directors, and the purpose of its creation is to contribute to the conduction of the Company’s ordinary business and the efficient performance of the Board of Directors’ duties.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee set by Capital Markets Law No. 26831 and the CNV’s regulations is formed by three directors, two of whom are independent, and meets the requirements set out in U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Such Committee’s mission is to provide the Board of Directors with assistance in overseeing the financial statements, as well as in the task of controlling Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries.

Committee for Information Integrity

The Committee for Information Integrity was created in compliance with the recommendations of U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act, and is made up of the General Manager, the Administrative and Finance Manager and two supervisors of the Administrative and Finance Division.

Its most important duties are monitoring the Company’s internal controls, reviewing the financial statements and other information published, preparing Board of Directors’ reports with the activities carried out by the Committee. Its operation has been adapted to local laws and it currently performs important administrative and reporting duties, which are used by the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee, contributing to the transparency of the information provided to markets.

Basic Holding Structure

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. is a company whose sole purpose is to conduct financial and investment activities as per Section 31 of the General Corporations Law. That is to say, it is a holding company whose activity involves managing its equity investments, assets and resources.

Within the group of companies in which the Company has an interest, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. stands out, which is its main asset and a wholly owned subsidiary. Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., as a bank institution, is subject to certain regulatory restrictions imposed by the Argentine Central Bank. Among such restrictions, there is one that limits the equity interest to a maximum of 12.5% of the capital stock in companies that do not perform activities qualified as supplementary.

Therefore, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. directly and indirectly holds those equity interests in companies that carry out activities defined as non-supplementary.

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has a reduced structure due to its nature as holding company of a group of financial services. Accordingly, certain typical organizational aspects of large operating companies are not applicable thereto.

To conclude, one should note that Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. is under the control of a pure holding company, EBA Holding S.A., which has the number of votes necessary to hold the majority of votes at the Shareholders’ Meetings, although it does not have any managerial functions over the former.

Compensation Systems

Directors’ compensation is defined by the General Shareholders’ Meeting and is fixed within the limits established by law and the corporate bylaws.

The Audit Committee expresses its opinion on whether compensation proposals for Directors are reasonable, taking into consideration market standards.

Business Conduct Policy

The Company has consistently shown respect for the rights of its shareholders, reliability and accuracy in the information provided, transparency as to its policies and decisions, and caution with regard to the disclosure of strategic business issues.

Code of Ethics

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has a Code of Ethics formally approved that guides its policies and activities. It considers business objectivity and conflict-of-interests related-aspects, and how the employee should act upon identifying a breach of the Code of Ethics.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors is the Company’s highest management body. As of the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements, it is made up of seven directors and four alternate directors, who have the necessary knowledge and skills to clearly understand their responsibilities and duties within the corporate governance, and act with the loyalty and diligence of a good businessman.

Banco Galicia complies with the appropriate standards regarding total number of directors, as well as number of independent directors. Furthermore, its bylaws provide for the flexibility necessary to adapt from three (3) to nine (9) directors to the possible changes in the conditions in which the Bank carries out its activities.

The General Shareholders’ Meeting has the power to establish the number of directors, both independent and non-independent ones, and appoint them. Out of the seven directors, one of them is independent. In addition, two of the alternate directors are independent. The independence concept is defined in the regulations set forth by the CNV and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

As regards prevention of conflicts of interest, the provisions set forth in the General Corporations Law and the Capital Markets Law are applicable.

As set out in the bylaws, the term of office for both directors and alternate directors is three years; two thirds of them (or a fraction of at least three) are changed every year and may be reelected indefinitely.

The Board of Directors’ meeting is held at least once a week and when required by any director. The Board of Directors is responsible for the Bank’s general management and makes all the necessary decisions to such end. The Board of Directors’ members also take part, to a greater or lesser extent, in the commissions and committees created. Therefore, they are continuously informed about the Bank’s course of business and become aware of the decisions made by such bodies, which are transcribed into minutes.

Additionally, the Board of Directors receives a monthly report prepared by the General Manager, the purpose of which is to report the material issues and events addressed at the different meetings held between the General Manager and Senior Management. The Board of Directors becomes aware of such reports, as evidenced in the minutes.

In connection with directors’ training and development, the Bank has a program, which is reviewed every nine months, whereby they regularly attend courses and seminars of different kinds and subjects.

According to the activities carried out by the Bank, effective laws and corporate strategies, the following committees have been created to achieve an effective control over all activities performed by the Bank:

Risk and Capital Allocation Committee

It is in charge of approving and analyzing capital allocation, establishing risk policies and monitoring the Bank’s risk.

High Credit Committee

This committee’s function is to approve and sign credit ratings and grant transactions related to high-risk groups and customers, i.e., greater than 2.5% of the Bank’s individual Computable Regulatory Capital, loans to financial institutions (local or foreign) and related customers, in which case two thirds of the Board of Directors is required to participate.

Low Credit Committee

This committee’s function is to approve and sign the credit ratings and grant transactions related to medium-risk groups and customers, equal to amounts greater than 1% of the Bank’s individual Computable Regulatory Capital.

Asset and Liability Management Committee

It is in charge of analyzing the fundraising and its placement in different assets, the follow-up and control of liquidity, interest-rate and currency mismatches, and management thereof.

Information Technology Committee

This Committee is in charge of supervising and approving the development plans of new systems and their budgets, as well as supervising these systems’ budget control. It is also responsible for approving the general design of the systems’ structure, the main processes thereof and the systems implemented, as well as monitoring the quality of the Bank’s systems, within the policies established by the Board of Directors.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee set by Capital Markets Law No. 26831 and the C.N.V.’s regulations is formed by three directors, two of whom are independent, and meets the requirements set out in U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Such Committee’s mission is to provide the Board of Directors with assistance in overseeing the financial statements, as well as in the task of controlling Grupo Financiero Galicia and its subsidiaries.

F-95


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Committee for Information Integrity

The Committee for Information Integrity was created in compliance with the recommendations of U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act, and is made up of the General Manager, the Administrative and Finance Manager and two supervisors of the Administrative and Finance Division.

Its most important duties are monitoring the Company's internal controls, reviewing the financial statements and other information published, preparing Board of Directors' reports with the activities carried out by the Committee. Its operation has been adapted to local laws and it currently performs important administrative and reporting duties, which are used by the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee, contributing to the transparency of the information provided to markets.

Basic Holding Structure

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. is a company whose sole purpose is to conduct financial and investment activities as per Section 31 of the General Corporations Law. That is to say, it is a holding company whose activity involves managing its equity investments, assets and resources.

Within the group of companies in which the Company has an interest, Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U. stands out, which is its main asset and a wholly-owned subsidiary. Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U., as a bank institution, is subject to certain regulatory restrictions imposed by the Argentine Central Bank. Among such restrictions, there is one that limits the equity interest to a maximum of 12.5% of the capital stock in companies that do not perform activities qualified as supplementary.

Therefore, Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. directly and indirectly holds those equity interests in companies that carry out activities defined as non-supplementary.

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has a reduced structure due to its nature as holding company of a group of financial services. Accordingly, certain typical organizational aspects of large operating companies are not applicable thereto.

To conclude, one should note that Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. is under the control of a pure holding company, EBA Holding S.A., which has the number of votes necessary to hold the majority of votes at the Shareholders’ Meetings, although it does not have any managerial functions over the former.

Compensation Systems

Directors’ compensation is defined by the General Shareholders’ Meeting and is fixed within the limits established by law and the corporate bylaws.

The Audit Committee expresses its opinion on whether compensation proposals for Directors are reasonable, taking into consideration market standards.

Business Conduct Policy

The Company has consistently shown respect for the rights of its shareholders, reliability and accuracy in the information provided, transparency as to its policies and decisions, and caution with regard to the disclosure of strategic business issues.

Code of Ethics

Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. has a Code of Ethics formally approved that guides its policies and activities. It considers business objectivity and conflict-of-interests related-aspects, and how the employee should act upon identifying a breach of the Code of Ethics.

Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.U.

Banco Galicia’s Board of Directors is the Company's highest management body. As of the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements, it is made up of seven directors and four alternate directors, who have the necessary knowledge and skills to clearly understand their responsibilities and duties within the corporate governance, and act with the loyalty and diligence of a good businessman.

Banco Galicia complies with the appropriate standards regarding total number of directors, as well as number of independent directors. Furthermore, its bylaws provide for the flexibility necessary to adapt from three (3) to nine (9) directors to the possible changes in the conditions in which the Bank carries out its activities.

The General Shareholders’ Meeting has the power to establish the number of directors, both independent and non-independent ones, and appoint them. Out of the seven directors, one of them is independent. In addition, two of the alternate directors are independent. The independence concept is defined in the regulations set forth by the C.N.V. and the Argentine Central Bank regulations.

F-96


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As regards prevention of conflicts of interest, the provisions set forth in the General Corporations Law and the Capital Markets Law are applicable.

As set out in the bylaws, the term of office for both directors and alternate directors is three years; two thirds of them (or a fraction of at least three) are changed every year and may be reelected indefinitely.

The Board of Directors' meeting is held at least once a week and when required by any director. The Board of Directors is responsible for the Bank’s general management and makes all the necessary decisions to such end. The Board of Directors' members also take part, to a greater or lesser extent, in the commissions and committees created. Therefore, they are continuously informed about the Bank’s course of business and become aware of the decisions made by such bodies, which are transcribed into minutes.

Additionally, the Board of Directors receives a monthly report prepared by the General Manager, the purpose of which is to report the material issues and events addressed at the different meetings held between the General Manager and Senior Management. The Board of Directors becomes aware of such reports, as evidenced in the minutes.

In connection with directors’ training and development, the Bank has a program, which is reviewed every nine months, whereby they regularly attend courses and seminars of different kinds and subjects.

According to the activities carried out by the Bank, effective laws and corporate strategies, the following committees have been created to achieve an effective control over all activities performed by the Bank:

- Risk and Capital Allocation Committee

It is in charge of approving and analyzing capital allocation, establishing risk policies and monitoring the Bank’s risk.

- High Credit Committee

This committee’s function is to approve and sign credit ratings and grant transactions related to high-risk groups and customers, i.e., greater than 2.5% of the Bank’s individual Computable Regulatory Capital, loans to financial institutions (local or foreign) and related customers, in which case two thirds of the Board of Directors is required to participate.

- Low Credit Committee

This committee’s function is to approve and sign the credit ratings and grant transactions related to medium-risk groups and customers, equal to amounts greater than 1% of the Bank’s individual Computable Regulatory Capital.

- Asset and Liability Management Committee

It is in charge of analyzing the fundraising and its placement in different assets, the follow-up and control of liquidity, interest-rate and currency mismatches, and management thereof.

- Information Technology Committee

This Committee is in charge of supervising and approving the development plans of new systems and their budgets, as well as supervising these systems’ budget control. It is also responsible for approving the general design of the systems’ structure, the main processes thereof and the systems implemented, as well as monitoring the quality of the Bank’s systems, within the policies established by the Board of Directors.

- Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is responsible for helping the Board of Directors, in performing the control function of the Bank and its controlled companies and the companies in which it owns a stake, in order to fairly ensure the following objectives:

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Effectiveness and efficiency of operations;

Reliability of the accounting information;

Compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and

Compliance with the goals and strategy set by the Board of Directors.

-

Committee for the Control and Prevention of Money Laundering and Funding of Terrorist Activities (CPLA/FT, as per its initials in Spanish)

It is in charge of planning, coordinating and ensuring compliance with the policies on anti-money laundering and funding of terrorist activities set and approved by the Board of Directors.

-

Committee for Information Integrity

It is in charge of encouraging compliance with the provisions of Sarbanes-Oxley (2002).

F-97


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

- Human Resources and Governance Committee

It is in charge of presenting the succession of the General Manager and Division Managers, analyzing and establishing the General Manager’s and Division Managers’ compensation, and monitoring the performance matrix of Department and Division Managers.

-

Performance Reporting Committee

It is in charge of monitoring the performance and results of operations and evaluating the macro situation.

-

Liquidity Crisis Committee

It is in charge of evaluating the situation upon facing a liquidity crisis and deciding the steps to be implemented to tackle it.

-

Strategy and New Businesses Committee

It is in charge of analyzing new businesses.

-

Compliance Committee

It is in charge of instilling respect for Banco Galicia’s rules, code of conduct and ethics, and mitigating the risk of default, by defining policies and establishing controls and reports in the best interests of the Bank and its employees, shareholders and customers.

-

Committee for the Protection of Users of Financial Services

It is responsible for following up on the activities developed by Banco Galicia’s management involved in user protection internal processes to ensure adequate compliance with legal and regulatory standards.

The Bank considers the General Manager and Division Management reporting to the General Manager as Senior Management. These are detailed as follows:

Retail Banking Division

Wholesale Banking Division

Finance Division

Comprehensive Corporate Services DivisionProducts and Tecnology

Organizational Development and Human Resources Division

Risk Management Division

Strategic Planning and Management Control Division

Customer’s Experience Division

Senior Management’s main duties are as follows:

-

Ensure that the Bank’s activities are consistent with the business strategy, the policies approved by the Board of Directors and the risks to be assumed.

-

Implement the necessary policies, procedures, processes and controls to manage operations and risks cautiously, meet the strategic goals set by the Board of Directors and ensure that the latter receives material, full and timely information so that it may assess management and analyze whether the responsibilities assigned are effectively fulfilled.

-

Monitor the managers from different divisions, in line with the policies and procedures set by the Board of Directors and establish an effective internal control system.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Basic Holding Structure

The Bank’s majority shareholder is Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A., which has full control of its shares and votes. In turn, the Bank holds equity investments in supplementary companies as shareholders of the parent, as well as minority interests in companies whose controlling company is its own shareholders of the parent. From a business point of view, this structure allows the Bank to take advantage of significant synergies that guarantee the loyalty of its customers and additional businesses. All business relationships with these companies, whether permanent or occasional in nature, are fostered under the normal and usual market conditions and this is true when the Bank holds either a majority or minority interest. Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A.'s‘s Board of Directors submits to the Shareholders' Meeting'sShareholders’ Meeting’s vote which shall be the Company'sCompany’s vote in its capacity as shareholders of the parent at the Bank's Shareholders'Bank’s Shareholders’ Meeting. The same method of transparency and information as to its controlled companies and the

F-98


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

companies it owns a stake in is applied at the Bank’s Shareholders’ Meetings, which are always attended by directors and officers thereof and the Board of Directors always provides detailed information about the Company’s activities.

Business Conduct Policy and/or Code of Ethics

The Bank has a formally approved Code of Ethics that guides its policies and activities. It considers business objectivity and conflict of interest related aspects, and how the employee should act upon identifying a breach of the Code of Ethics, with the involvement of the Conduct Committee.

Information Related to Personnel Economic Incentive Practices

The Human Resources and Governance Committee, composed of two (2) Directors, the General Manager and the Organizational Development and Human Resources Division Manager, is in charge of establishing the compensation policy for Banco Galicia’s personnel.

It is the policy of Banco Galicia to manage the full compensation of its personnel based on the principles of fairness, meritocracy and justice, within the framework of the legal regulations in force.

The aim of this policy is to provide an objective and fair basis, through the design and implementation of tools for the management of the fixed and variable compensation paid to each employee, based on the scope and complexity of each position’s responsibilities, individual performance with regard to compliance thereof, contribution to the Bank’s results and conformity to market values, with the purpose of:

-

Attracting and creating loyalty with regard to quality personnel suitable for the achievement of the business strategy and goals.

-

Being an individual motivation means.

-

Easing the decentralized management of compensation administration.

-

Allowing the effective budget control of personnel costs.

-

Guaranteeing the internal fairness in order to monitor and ensure both external and internal fairness with regard to the payment of fixed and variable compensation. The Compensation area uses and puts at the disposal of the Senior Management and the Human Resources Committee market surveys published by consulting firms specialized in compensation issues, pursuant to the market positioning policies defined by the management division for the different corporate levels.

With the purpose of gearing individuals towards the achievement of attainable results that contribute to the global performance of the Bank/Area, and to the increase in motivation for the common attainment of goals, differentiating individual contribution, Banco Galicia has different variable compensation systems:

1)

Business Incentives and/or Incentives through Commissions system for business areas.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2)

Annual Bonus System for management levels, officers and the rest of the employees who are not included in the business incentives system. The annual bonus is determined based on individual performance and the Bank’s results and is paid in the first quarter of the next fiscal year. To determine the variable compensation for the Senior Management and Middle Management, the Bank uses the Management Performance Assessment System. This system has been designed including both qualitative and quantitative KPI (Key Performance Indicators). In particular, quantitative Key Performance Indicators are designed with respect to at least three minimum aspects:

a)

Results.

b)

Business volume or size.

c)

Projections: Indicators that protect the business for the future (For example: Quality, internal and external customer satisfaction, risk coverage, work environment, etc.).

The significance or impact of each of them is monitored and adjusted yearly pursuant to the strategy approved by the Board of Directors.

The interaction among these three aspects seeks to make incentives related to results and growth consistent with the risk thresholds determined by the Board of Directors. In turn, there is no deferred payment of variable compensation subject to the occurrence of future events or in the long term, taking into consideration that the business environment in the Argentine financial system is characterized by being mainly transactional, with lending and borrowing transactions with a very short seasoning term.

Annual budget and management control – the latter carried out monthly in a general manner and quarterly in a more detailed manner - manner—include different risk ratios, including the ratio between compensation and risks undertaken.

F-99


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Variable compensation is only paid in cash. There are no share-based payments. Every change to this policy is submitted to Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires S.A.’s Human Resources Committee for its consideration.

NOTE 55. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS53. IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE GROUP OPERATIONS

Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.

UnderDuring this period, Grupo Financiero Galicia has performed its operations under the frameworkchallenging circumstances arising from the pandemic declared by the World Health Organization in March 2020, resulting from the Covid-19 virus.

The pandemic continues to generate consequences in businesses and economic activities at global and local level.

In Argentina, the measures taken by the National Government to contain the spread of the divestment commitment undertaken by Prisma Medios de Pago S.A.virus included, among others, the closure of borders and its shareholders towards the Argentine Commissionmandatory isolation or distancing of Competence Defense, on January 21, 2019, Banco Galicia,the population along with the other shareholders, acceptedcessation of non-essential commercial activities for an offer madeextended period of time, with variants according to the local region and activity. On the date of issuance of these Financial Statements, commercial activities are gradually becoming normal and in compliance with the protocols established by AI Zenith (Netherlands) B.V. to buy 3,182,444 book-entry common shares, with face value of $1 each and one vote per share, representing 7.7007% of this company's capital stock.the Government.

The estimated total pricefinal scope of the transaction amounted to US$106,258, outcoronavirus outbreak and its impact on global and local economies is unknown, and the governments may take stricter measures, which are unpredictable at this time. As of the date of issuance of these Financial Statements, Grupo Financiero Galicia has not experienced significant impacts on its income resulting from the pandemic. However, in this context, the Argentine Central Bank ordered a series of measures, of which Banco Galicia received US$ 63,073 on February 1, 2019 (date onthe following stand out: (i) customer service by prior appointment, (ii) suspension of commissions collection for the use of ATMs, (iii) suspension of income distribution until December 31, 2020, (iv) the extension of expiration dates for credit cards; (v) the financing of unpaid credit card balances at maximum rates, (vi) the postponement of maturities of unpaid credit balances, (vii) the granting of zero-rate financing to the self-employed and taxpayers under the simplified tax scheme; (viii) the granting of financing to SMEs at a rate of 24%, (ix) a Financing Line for productive investment of SMEs, (x) the granting of financing to companies for payment of salaries, (xi) the setting of minimum rates for fixed-term deposits, (xii) flexibilization in parameters for the classification of bank debtors, and (xiii) controls to the exchange market.

By virtue of the aforementioned, the extent to which the shares were transferred). The price remainder, i.e. US$43,185,coronavirus will be payable duringaffect the next five years: (i) 30%  will be payableGroup’s business in Pesos at UVA rate, plus an annual nominal 15% ratethe future and (ii) 70% will be payable in US Dollars at an annual nominal 10% rate.

Banco Galicia continues to hold 3,057,642 shares in Prisma Medios de Pago S.A., which represent 7.3988%the income of its capital stock.operations cannot be reasonably quantified, should this situation continue for a long time.

The Board of Directors is closely monitoring this situation and taking all the required measures within their reach to preserve human life and our operations.

NOTE 54. ECONOMIC CONTEXT WHERE THE GROUP’S OPERATIONS

 

The Company operates in a complex economic context, whose main variables have experienced strong volatility, both in the national and international spheres.

F-100


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In March 2020, the outbreak of the pandemic caused by covid-19 generated significant consequences at global level, since most of the world’s countries reacted by implementing a series of unprecedented restrictions on moving from one place to another.

The different measures of sanitary restrictions imposed generated, to a greater or lesser extent, an almost immediate impact on the economies, whose production and activity indicators dropped fast.

In response, most governments have implemented aid packages to sustain the income of part of the population and reduce the risks of disruption in payment chains and company bankruptcies, aiming to lessen the impact of the crisis. Argentina has not been the exception, and the Government implemented actions as soon as the pandemic was declared. The Argentine economy was already in recession when the pandemic broke out, and the latter made this scenario more complex, giving rise to historical collapses in economic activity during the months with more restrictions on circulation. Despite the fact that there was an economic recovery in comparison with the first months in which the Social and Mandatory Preventive Isolation was implemented, the pre-pandemic activity levels have yet to be reached. The country ended the year 2020 with a fall in its annual Gross Domestic Product of around 10.1%.

The increase in public spending associated with the implementation of programs of various kinds to absorb the impact of the pandemic and the quarantine on the economic activity, together with the sharp drop in income that resulted from the recession, have led to a primary deficit of around 6.5% during 2020. The “red” of the public accounts was financed mainly through the assistance of the Central Bank to the Treasury (via transfers of via Temporary Advances and transfers of Profits corresponding to fiscal year 2019) due to the lack of access to the international capital market resulting from the process of foreign debt restructuring that the country went through during the first half of the year. Negotiations with external creditors were completed in the third quarter of 2020.

The inflationary effect of the aforementioned issuance of Argentine pesos has not yet been fully observed due to a series of factors: the restrictions on circulation that prevailed most of the year, the freezing of utility rates and other regulated prices, and the existence of programs such as “Precios Máximos” (Maximum Prices) and “Precios Cuidados” (Controlled Prices).

However, in the last months of 2020 the price increase began to accelerate, in line with the gradual reopening of some sectors of the economy and the authorization by the government to increase some prices. In 2020, the variation of the Consumer Price Index closed with an annual variation of 36.1%. However, the exchange rate regime did account for the strong issuance of Argentine pesos verified during 2020. The official exchange rate, defined daily by the Argentine Central Bank through Communication “A” 3500, devalued 28.8%, going from Ps. 1/USD 59.90 to Ps. 1/USD 84.15 between the last business day of 2019 and the last business day of 2020. In parallel, the International Reserves of the monetary entity fell to USD 39,410,000 at the end of 2020, from the USD 44,781,000 with which it had closed 2019. The reduction of the Reserves was mainly due to the cancellation of financial loans and lines of credit, particularly from the private sector. Added to this was the formation of external assets from the non-financial private sector, mainly explained by the acquisition of foreign currency by natural persons for savings.

In order to contain the decline in International Reserves, the monetary authority imposed increasing exchange restrictions throughout 2020. Additionally, these also had an upward impact on financial exchange rates used for restricted exchange transactions in the official market. Among these measures is the need to request prior authorization from the Argentine Central Bank to carry out certain transactions.

Likewise, the exchange rate regime already determined as mandatory the entry and settlement in national currency of the funds obtained resulting from exports of goods and services, collections of pre-financing, advances and post-financing of exports of goods, and sale of non-produced non-financial assets, and external assets.

The exchange restrictions, or those that may be established in the future, could affect the Company’s ability to access the Single Free Exchange Market (Mercado Único y Libre de Cambios, MULC) to acquire the necessary foreign exchange to meet its financial obligations. The assets and liabilities in foreign currency as of December 31, 2020 have been valuated considering MULC quotes in force.

The volatility and uncertainty context continues on the date of issuance of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company’s Management permanently monitors the evolution of the variables that affect their business to define their course of action and identify the potential impacts on their equity and financial position. The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements must be read in the light of these circumstances.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 55. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Cash Dividends

On February 24, 2021, the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Sudamericana Holding S.A. was held, which decided to partially use the “Optional Reserve” for the subsequent distribution of cash dividends or in kind in the amount of Ps. 1,100,000.

On March 29, 2021, the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Galicia Warrants S.A. was held, which decided to partially use the “Optional Reserve” for the subsequent distribution of cash dividends or in kind in the amount of Ps. 40,000.

On March 29, 2021, the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Galicia Administradora de Fondos S.A. was held, which decided the distribution of cash dividends or in kind in the amount of Ps. 800,000.

On March 30, 2021, the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Galicia Securities S.A. was held, which decided the distribution of cash dividends or in kind in the amount of Ps. 150,000.

Corporate Reorganization

On February 25, 2021, the National Securities Commission, through Resolution RESFC-2021-20999-APN-DIR, issued the administrative approval of the Spin-off-Merger requested by the Group, in its capacity of merging company of the spin-off equity of Fedler S.A. and Dusner S.A., in their capacity as spin-off companies.

The same resolution also authorized for the Group the public offering of 47,927,494 Class B ordinary book-entry shares with a nominal value of one Argentine peso (NV Ps. 1) each and entitled to one vote per share, to be delivered in exchange to the shareholders of the spin-off companies.

On March 16, 2021 the merger by acquisition and capital increase of Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. was registered with the Public Registry of Commerce.

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE A – BREAKDOWN OF GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE SECURITIES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

   Holdings 
       Carrying Amount 

Item

  Fair Value
Level
   12.31.20  12.31.19 

DEBT SECURITIES AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS

     155,419,560   89,431,378 

Argentine

     155,419,560   89,431,378 

Government Securities

     24,282,643   9,121,674 

Argentine Government Bonds

   Level 1    6,486,355   460,008 

Argentine Government Bonds

   Level 3    —     12,070 

Provincial Government Bonds

   Level 1    539,371   —   

Provincial Government Bonds

   Level 3    200,768   —   

City of Buenos Aires Bonds

   Level 1    91,199   163,969 

Treasury Bills

   Level 1    16,053,570   1,428,693 

Treasury Bills

   Level 2    911,380   —   

Treasury Bills

   Level 3    —     7,056,934 

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills

     128,324,920   79,153,628 

Liquidity Bills

   Level 2    128,324,920   79,153,628 

Corporate Securities

     2,811,997   1,156,076 

Debt Securities

   Level 1    1,653,980   836,335 

Debt Securities

   Level 3    1,088,186   191,649 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

   Level 1    —     68,070 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

   Level 3    69,831   60,022 

OTHER DEBT SECURITIES

     23,070,377   25,893,436 

Measured at Fair Value through OCI

     4,185,098   21,668,553 

Argentine

     4,185,098   21,668,553 

Government Securities

     4,010,642   21,668,553 

Argentine Government Bonds

   Level 1    353,640   21,572,682 

Argentine Government Bonds

   Level 2    3,580,102   —   

Treasury Bills

   Level 1    76,900   —   

City of Buenos Aires Bonds

   Level 1    —     95,871 

Argentine Central Bank’s Bills

     174,456   —   

Liquidity Bills

   Level 1    174,456   —   

Measurement at Amortized Cost

     18,885,279   4,224,883 

Argentine

     18,880,939   1,045,799 

Government Securities

     17,886,824   (37,054

Argentine Government Bonds

     17,930,500   1,960 

Treasury Bills

     —     —   

Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts Risk

     (43,676  (39,014

Corporate Securities

     994,115   1,082,853 

Debt Securities

     940,190   582,239 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

     36,010   692,249 

Others

     17,915   18,555 

Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts Risk

     —     (210,190

From Abroad

     4,340   3,179,084 

Government Securities

     4,340   3,179,084 

Treasury Bills

     4,340   3,179,084 

INVESTMENTS IN EQUITY INSTRUMENTS

     5,711,684   6,200,459 

Measured at Fair Value through profit or loss

     5,711,684   6,200,459 

Argentine

     5,655,017   6,143,058 

Shares

   Level 1    184,341   170,445 

Shares

   Level 3    5,470,676   5,972,613 

From Abroad

     56,667   57,401 

Shares

   Level 1    50,433   50,107 

Shares

   Level 3    6,234   7,294 

 

 

Holdings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carrying Amount

 

Item

 

Fair Value

 

Fair Value

Level

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

DEBT SECURITIES AT FAIR

   VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR

   LOSS

 

 

 

 

 

 

75,935,163

 

 

 

42,747,797

 

Argentine

 

 

 

 

 

 

75,935,163

 

 

 

42,747,797

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,699,806

 

 

 

13,923,160

 

Government Bonds

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

1,466,270

 

 

 

1,238,644

 

Government Bonds

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

19,137

 

 

 

14,344

 

Provincial Bonds

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

538,591

 

 

 

3,460,367

 

Provincial Bonds

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

445,204

 

 

 

229,587

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires Bonds

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

37,166

 

 

 

1,131,770

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires Bonds

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

5,073

 

 

 

-

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

910,317

 

 

 

7,848,448

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

1,278,048

 

 

 

-

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills and Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

26,367,677

 

Lebacs

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

26,367,677

 

Liquidity Bills

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

70,097,764

 

 

 

-

 

Private Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,137,593

 

 

 

2,456,960

 

Debt Securities

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

270,470

 

 

 

916,066

 

Debt Securities

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,906

 

Debt Securities

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

418,728

 

 

 

962,364

 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

38,285

 

 

 

89,151

 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

63,559

 

 

 

271,523

 

Participation Certificates in Financial Trusts

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,783

 

Participation Certificates in Financial Trusts

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

36,270

 

 

 

-

 

Participation Certificates in Financial Trusts

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

310,281

 

 

 

208,167

 

OTHER DEBT SECURITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

4,182,537

 

Measured at Fair Value through OCI

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

142,450

 

Argentine

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

142,450

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

142,450

 

Government Bonds

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

9,074,420

 

 

 

142,450

 

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires Bonds

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

54,625

 

 

 

-

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

(16,946

)

 

 

-

 

Measurement at Amortized Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,312,035

 

 

 

4,040,087

 

Argentine

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,310,204

 

 

 

4,038,729

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

222,588

 

 

 

108,822

 

Government Bonds

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,255

 

 

 

34,590

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

219,333

 

 

 

74,232

 

Argentine Central Bank's Bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

166,258

 

Lebacs

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

166,258

 

Private Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,087,616

 

 

 

3,763,649

 

Debt Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

485,923

 

 

 

505,793

 

Debt Securities of Financial Trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,710,353

 

 

 

3,303,242

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

(108,660

)

 

 

(45,386

)

Foreign

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,831

 

 

 

1,358

 

Government Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,831

 

 

 

1,358

 

Treasury Bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,831

 

 

 

1,358

 

INVESTMENTS IN EQUITY INSTRUMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

161,054

 

 

 

111,923

 

Measured at Fair Value through OCI

 

 

 

 

 

 

161,054

 

 

 

111,923

 

Argentine

 

 

 

 

 

 

132,839

 

 

 

81,338

 

Shares

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

2,030

 

 

 

-

 

Shares

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

130,809

 

 

 

81,338

 

Foreign

 

 

 

 

 

 

28,215

 

 

 

30,585

 

Shares

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

24,765

 

 

 

28,233

 

Shares

 

 

 

Level 3

 

 

3,450

 

 

 

2,352

 

F-101


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE B – CLASSIFICATION OF LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING BY STATUS AND GUARANTEES RECEIVED

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Item

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

COMMERCIAL LOAN PORTFOLIO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Normal

 

 

146,937,906

 

 

 

131,249,396

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

7,695,607

 

 

 

94,173

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

7,905,793

 

 

 

7,961,114

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

131,336,506

 

 

 

123,194,109

 

With Special Follow-Up Under Observation

 

 

1,800,930

 

 

 

75,320

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

8,000

 

 

 

3,789

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

1,792,930

 

 

 

71,531

 

With Problems

 

 

471,695

 

 

 

230,740

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

439,072

 

 

 

146,244

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

32,623

 

 

 

84,496

 

High Risk of Insolvency

 

 

207,358

 

 

 

272,040

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

29,047

 

 

 

82,349

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

178,311

 

 

 

189,691

 

Uncollectible

 

 

1,321

 

 

 

27,928

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

 

12,352

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,073

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

1,321

 

 

 

12,503

 

TOTAL COMMERCIAL LOAN PORTFOLIO

 

 

149,419,210

 

 

 

131,855,424

 

Item

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

COMMERCIAL PORTFOLIO

    

In Normal Situation

   194,116,454    240,409,007 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   2,832,229    2,586,795 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   11,631,927    17,595,836 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   179,652,298    220,226,376 

With Special Follow-Up – In Observation

   1,002,543    550,699 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   12,182    —   

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   274,614    442,319 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   715,747    108,380 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Problems

   446,425    —   

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   968    —   

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   95,016    —   

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   350,441    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

High Insolvency Risk

   119,579    3,628,103 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   —      —   

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   115,817    1,033,809 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   3,762    2,594,294 

Uncollectible

   121,483    3,365,400 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   —      59,478 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   —      226,452 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   121,483    3,079,470 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL COMMERCIAL PORTFOLIO

   195,806,484    247,953,209 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

F-102


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE B – CLASSIFICATION OF LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING BY STATUS AND GUARANTEES RECEIVED (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Item

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

CONSUMER AND HOUSING LOAN PORTFOLIO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Normal Performance

 

 

174,203,923

 

 

 

179,634,460

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

242,856

 

 

 

19,944

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

14,207,918

 

 

 

7,827,255

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

159,753,149

 

 

 

171,787,261

 

Low Risk

 

 

5,795,602

 

 

 

4,251,152

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

12,629

 

 

 

1,788

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

152,754

 

 

 

33,699

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

5,630,219

 

 

 

4,215,665

 

Medium Risk

 

 

4,323,373

 

 

 

2,736,130

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

2,265

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

108,582

 

 

 

11,890

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

4,212,526

 

 

 

2,724,240

 

High Risk

 

 

4,430,239

 

 

 

3,469,992

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

11,616

 

 

 

537

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

49,860

 

 

 

8,967

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

4,368,763

 

 

 

3,460,488

 

Uncollectible

 

 

1,180,349

 

 

 

1,516,405

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

9,916

 

 

 

114

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

64,262

 

 

 

32,150

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

1,106,171

 

 

 

1,484,141

 

Uncollectible due to Technical Reasons

 

 

6,507

 

 

 

9,848

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

6,507

 

 

 

9,848

 

TOTAL CONSUMER AND HOUSING LOAN PORTFOLIO

 

 

189,939,993

 

 

 

191,617,987

 

GRAND TOTAL(1)

 

 

339,359,203

 

 

 

323,473,411

 

Item

  12.31.20   12.31.19 

CONSUMER AND HOUSING PORTFOLIO

    

Normal Performance

   389,298,300    281,906,272 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   17,117,203    226,081 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   21,076,265    24,573,975 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   351,104,832    257,106,216 

Low Risk

   1,823,149    8,833,908 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   25,637    20,777 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   81,510    284,949 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   1,716,002    8,528,182 

Medium Risk

   999,797    5,734,894 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   71,652    10,080 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   67,159    221,257 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   860,986    5,503,557 

High Risk

   2,470,873    8,767,203 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   42,666    —   

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   100,223    237,792 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   2,327,984    8,529,411 

Uncollectible

   3,697,725    7,093,842 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

   47,067    16,245 

With Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “B”

   180,545    162,945 

Without Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

   3,470,113    6,914,652 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL CONSUMER AND HOUSING PORTFOLIO

   398,289,844    312,336,119 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

GRAND TOTAL(1)

   594,096,328    560,289,328 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Reconciliation between Schedule B and the Balance Sheet:Statement of Financial Position:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

284,354,759

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

4,182,537

 

Off-Balance Sheet Agreed Loans and Guarantees Granted

 

 

32,554,655

 

 

 

23,396,885

 

Plus Allowances for Loan Losses

 

 

15,782,416

 

 

 

9,280,621

 

Plus Adjustments under the IFRS that Are Not Computable for the Statement of Debtors' Status

 

 

4,239,608

 

 

 

3,204,876

 

Less Other Non-computable Items for the Statement of Debtors' Status

 

 

(1,222,633

)

 

 

(803,817

)

Less Government Securities Measured at Fair Value through OCI

 

 

(9,129,045

)

 

 

(142,450

)

Total

 

 

339,359,203

 

 

 

323,473,411

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Loans and Other Financing

   526,434,119    488,144,152 

Other Debt Securities

   23,070,377    25,893,436 

Agreed Credits and Guarantees Granted Accounted Off-Balance Sheet

   17,236,805    28,614,207 

Plus, Allowances for Uncollectible Accounts

   37,277,248    35,433,465 

Plus, Adjustments to the IFRS based accounting framework, not Computable for the Statement of Debtors’ Financial Position

   13,901,166    8,948,415 

Minus Others Non-computable for the Statement of Debtors’ Financial Position

   (19,812,745   (5,075,794

Minus Government Securities Measured at Fair Value through OCI

   (4,010,642   (21,668,553
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   594,096,328    560,289,328 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

F-103


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE C – CONCENTRATION OF LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

LOANS

 

  LOANS 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

  12.31.20 12.31.19 

Number of Customers

 

Outstanding

Balance

 

 

% of Total

Portfolio

 

 

Outstanding

Balance

 

 

% of Total

Portfolio

 

  Outstanding
Balance
   % of Total
Portfolio
 Outstanding
Balance
   % of Total
Portfolio
 

10 Largest Customers

 

 

38,508,659

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

22,478,641

 

 

 

7

 

   54,335,287    9 59,930,266    11

50 Following Largest Customers

 

 

52,229,882

 

 

 

15

 

 

 

38,718,987

 

 

 

12

 

100 Following Largest Customers

 

 

22,627,832

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

17,977,128

 

 

 

6

 

Remaining Customers

 

 

225,992,830

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

244,298,655

 

 

 

75

 

next 50 Largest Customers

   64,276,214    11 89,520,651    16

next 100 Largest Customers

   31,622,602    5 42,166,421    8

Rest of Customers

   443,862,225    75 368,671,990    65
  

 

   

 

  

 

   

 

 

TOTAL(1)

 

 

339,359,203

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

323,473,411

 

 

 

100

 

   594,096,328    100  560,289,328    100
  

 

   

 

  

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Reconciliation between Schedule C and the Balance Sheet:Statement of Financial Position:

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

284,354,759

 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

14,424,134

 

 

 

4,182,537

 

Off-Balance Sheet Agreed Loans and Guarantees Granted

 

 

32,554,655

 

 

 

23,396,885

 

Plus Allowances for Loan Losses

 

 

15,782,416

 

 

 

9,280,621

 

Plus Adjustments under the IFRS that Are Not Computable for the Statement of Debtors' Status

 

 

4,239,608

 

 

 

3,204,876

 

Less Other Non-computable Items for the Statement of Debtors' Status

 

 

(1,222,633

)

 

 

(803,817

)

Less Government Securities Measured at Fair Value through OCI

 

 

(9,129,045

)

 

 

(142,450

)

Total

 

 

339,359,203

 

 

 

323,473,411

 

   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Loans and Other Financing

   526,434,119    488,144,152 

Other Debt Securities

   23,070,377    25,893,436 

Agreed Credits and Guarantees Granted Accounted Off-Balance Sheet

   17,236,805    28,614,207 

Plus, Allowances for Uncollectible Accounts

   37,277,248    35,433,465 

Plus, Adjustments to the IFRS based accounting framework, not Computable for the Statement of Debtors’ Financial Position

   13,901,166    8,948,415 

Minus Others Non-computable for the Statement of Debtors’ Financial Position

   (19,812,745   (5,075,794

Minus Government Securities Measured at Fair Value through OCI

   (4,010,642   (21,668,553
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   594,096,328    560,289,328 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

F-104


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE D – BREAKDOWN BY TERM OF LOANS AND OTHER FINANCING

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 20182020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

The following table shows contractual cash flows, including interest and other expenses to be accrued until contractual maturity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Terms Remaining to Maturity

 

 

 

 

 

   Terms Remaining to Maturity   

Item

 

Past-due

Loan

Portfolio

 

 

1 Month

 

 

3 Months

 

 

6 Months

 

 

12 Months

 

 

24 Months

 

 

Over 24

Months

 

 

Total

 

 Past-due
Loan
Portfolio
 1 Month 3 Months 6 Months 12 Months 24 Months Over 24
Months
 Total 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,898

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,898

 

  —    966,210   —     —     —     —     —    966,210 

Financial Sector

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,268,328

 

 

 

416,764

 

 

 

2,060,109

 

 

 

565,261

 

 

 

1,262,095

 

 

 

1,353,638

 

 

 

10,926,195

 

  —    11,146,614  2,134,838  873,292  1,101,873  699,566  134,539  16,090,722 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

7,463,062

 

 

 

135,460,826

 

 

 

53,723,309

 

 

 

44,579,000

 

 

 

55,151,796

 

 

 

27,618,114

 

 

 

38,922,796

 

 

 

362,918,903

 

 12,882,538  256,842,146  116,789,460  127,717,254  147,475,699  68,383,858  64,820,792  794,911,747 
 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

TOTAL

 

 

7,463,062

 

 

 

140,743,052

 

 

 

54,140,073

 

 

 

46,639,109

 

 

 

55,717,057

 

 

 

28,880,209

 

 

 

40,276,434

 

 

 

373,858,996

 

  12,882,538   268,954,970   118,924,298   128,590,546   148,577,572   69,083,424   64,955,331   811,968,679 
 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

F-105


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE E – DETAIL OF INTERESTS IN OTHER COMPANIES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos (Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

   Shares               Data from the last financial statement 

Denomination

  Class   Nominal
Value per
Share
   Votes per
Share
   Quantity   12.31.20   12.31.19   Principal
Line of
Business
   Year-
end
Date
   Capital   Shareholders´
Equity
   Net
Income
/ (Loss)
 

In complementary service companies

                      

Associates and Joint Ventures

                      

Argentine

                      

Play Digital S.A.

   
Ords.
Esc.
 
 
   1    1    186,496,457    89,142    —      Services    31.12.20    1,197,221    797,107    (571,938
          

 

 

   

 

 

           

TOTAL

           89,142    —             
          

 

 

   

 

 

           

GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE F – CHANGES IN PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 ANDYEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

   Depreciation  Net Book Value as of 

Item

 Value at
Beginning
of Fiscal
Year
  Estimated
Useful
Life in
Years
  Additions  Disposals  Transfers  Accumulated  Transfers  Disposals  For the
Fiscal
Year
  At Fiscal
Year-end
  12.31.20  12.31.19 

Measurement at Cost

            

Real Estate

  31,612,897   50   185,927   (11,314  350,294   (2,684,207  (15  11,314   (609,178  (3,282,086  28,855,718   28,928,690 

Furniture and Facilities

  6,350,571   10   126,464   (21,621  831,813   (3,943,625  —     19,319   (520,739  (4,445,045  2,842,182   2,406,946 

Machines and Equipment

  19,548,282   3 y 5   3,093,145   (4,828,173  109,039   (14,061,784  —     4,659,889   (2,304,709  (11,706,604  6,215,689   5,486,498 

Vehicles

  237,271   5   55,339   (12,698  —     (100,553  —     8,753   (47,320  (139,120  140,792   136,718 

Right of use of real property

  6,324,636   —     629,385   (289,598  31,405   (1,313,102  (31,405  13,573   (1,312,301  (2,643,235  4,052,593   5,011,534 

Personal Property Acquired for Finance Leases

  92,429   5   —     (92,429  —     (92,429  —     92,429   —     —     —     —   

Sundry

  2,099,672   5 y 10   14,432   (178,120  694,777   (1,159,447  —     129,368   (366,470  (1,396,549  1,234,212   940,225 

Work in Progress

  1,966,749   —     240,422   (16,656  (1,800,281  —     —     —     —     —     390,234   1,966,749 
 

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

  68,232,507    4,345,114   (5,450,609  217,047   (23,355,147  (31,420  4,934,645   (5,160,717  (23,612,639  43,731,420   44,877,360 
 

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 
   Depreciation  Net Book Value as of 

Item

 Value at
Beginning
of Fiscal
Year
  Estimated
Useful
Life in
Years
  Additions  Disposals  Transfers  Accumulated  Transfers  Disposals  For the
Fiscal
Year
  At Fiscal
Year-end
  12.31.19  12.31.18 

Measurement at Cost

            

Real Estate

  30,712,569   50   1,546,936   (817,265  170,657   (2,862,846  —     781,432   (602,793  (2,684,207  28,928,690   27,849,723 

Furniture and Facilities

  5,871,592   10   393,878   (1,510,499  1,595,600   (3,868,904  —     372,920   (447,641  (3,943,625  2,406,946   2,002,688 

Machines and Equipment

  18,796,916   3 y 5   1,801,898   (1,050,544  12   (12,542,287  —     710,092   (2,229,589  (14,061,784  5,486,498   6,254,629 

Vehicles

  230,192   5   87,378   (80,299  —     (105,504  —     42,379   (37,428  (100,553  136,718   124,688 

Right of use of real property

  —     —     6,324,636   —     —     —     —     —     (1,313,102  (1,313,102  5,011,534   —   

Personal Property Acquired for Finance Leases

  92,429   5   —     —     —     (92,429  —     —     —     (92,429  —     —   

Sundry

  1,968,824   5 y 10   147,231   (309,826  293,443   (825,968  —     —     (333,479  (1,159,447  940,225   1,142,856 

Work in Progress

  3,176,154   —     850,307   —     (2,059,712  —     —     —     —     —     1,966,749   3,176,154 
 

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total

  60,848,676    11,152,264   (3,768,433  —     (20,297,938  —     1,906,823   (4,964,032  (23,355,147  44,877,360   40,550,738 
 

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of Fiscal

Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful

Life in

Years

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Real Estate

 

 

14,753,741

 

 

50

 

 

19,119

 

 

 

(52,547

)

 

 

176,501

 

 

 

(1,415,996

)

 

 

40,074

 

 

 

(222,920

)

 

 

(1,598,842

)

 

 

13,297,972

 

 

 

13,337,745

 

Furniture and Fixtures

 

 

1,254,157

 

 

10

 

 

244,713

 

 

 

(49,002

)

 

 

216,453

 

 

 

(623,555

)

 

 

35,567

 

 

 

(122,069

)

 

 

(710,057

)

 

 

956,264

 

 

 

630,602

 

Machines and Equipment

 

 

4,907,977

 

 

3 y 5

 

 

1,103,043

 

 

 

(185,473

)

 

 

(111,495

)

 

 

(2,233,531

)

 

 

153,010

 

 

 

(647,007

)

 

 

(2,727,528

)

 

 

2,986,524

 

 

 

2,674,446

 

Vehicles

 

 

67,031

 

 

5

 

 

31,468

 

 

 

(7,521

)

 

 

440

 

 

 

(24,740

)

 

 

3,979

 

 

 

(11,119

)

 

 

(31,880

)

 

 

59,538

 

 

 

42,291

 

Personal Property Acquired for

   Financial Leases

 

 

15,100

 

 

5

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(440

)

 

 

(14,858

)

 

 

198

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(14,660

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

242

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

660,824

 

 

5 y 10

 

 

5,884

 

 

 

(3,084

)

 

 

178,700

 

 

 

(191,034

)

 

 

837

 

 

 

(106,423

)

 

 

(296,620

)

 

 

545,704

 

 

 

469,790

 

Work in Progress

 

 

1,053,899

 

 

-

 

 

932,965

 

 

 

(32,244

)

 

 

(438,037

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,516,583

 

 

 

1,053,899

 

Total

 

 

22,712,729

 

 

 

 

 

2,337,192

 

 

 

(329,871

)

 

 

22,122

 

 

 

(4,503,714

)

 

 

233,665

 

 

 

(1,109,538

)

 

 

(5,379,587

)

 

 

19,362,585

 

 

 

18,209,015

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of Fiscal

Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful

Life in

Years

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Real Estate

 

 

13,297,545

 

 

50

 

 

107,671

 

 

 

(1,037,503

)

 

 

2,386,028

 

 

 

(1,620,243

)

 

 

463,458

 

 

 

(259,211

)

 

 

(1,415,996

)

 

 

13,337,745

 

 

 

11,677,302

 

Furniture and Fixtures

 

 

1,147,022

 

 

10

 

 

181,703

 

 

 

(146,090

)

 

 

71,522

 

 

 

(666,098

)

 

 

136,995

 

 

 

(94,452

)

 

 

(623,555

)

 

 

630,602

 

 

 

480,924

 

Machines and Equipment

 

 

3,862,680

 

 

3 y 5

 

 

1,202,178

 

 

 

(293,867

)

 

 

136,986

 

 

 

(1,959,086

)

 

 

284,422

 

 

 

(558,867

)

 

 

(2,233,531

)

 

 

2,674,446

 

 

 

1,903,594

 

Vehicles

 

 

55,971

 

 

5

 

 

22,875

 

 

 

(12,053

)

 

 

238

 

 

 

(21,633

)

 

 

6,952

 

 

 

(10,059

)

 

 

(24,740

)

 

 

42,291

 

 

 

34,338

 

Personal Property Acquired for

   Financial Leases

 

 

16,235

 

 

5

 

 

-

 

 

 

(897

)

 

 

(238

)

 

 

(15,470

)

 

 

701

 

 

 

(89

)

 

 

(14,858

)

 

 

242

 

 

 

765

 

Miscellaneous

 

 

409,734

 

 

5 y 10

 

 

47,659

 

 

 

(3,381

)

 

 

206,812

 

 

 

(79,409

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(111,625

)

 

 

(191,034

)

 

 

469,790

 

 

 

330,325

 

Work in Progress

 

 

1,921,112

 

 

-

 

 

1,159,461

 

 

 

(246,338

)

 

 

(1,780,336

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,053,899

 

 

 

1,921,112

 

Total

 

 

20,710,299

 

 

 

 

 

2,721,547

 

 

 

(1,740,129

)

 

 

1,021,012

 

 

 

(4,361,939

)

 

 

892,528

 

 

 

(1,034,303

)

 

 

(4,503,714

)

 

 

18,209,015

 

 

 

16,348,360

 

F-106


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE F – CHANGES IN INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 ANDYEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

Changes in investment properties recorded in the "Other“Other Non-financial Assets"Assets” account are detailed below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

 Depreciation Net Book Value as of 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of Fiscal

Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful

Life in

Years

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 Value at
Beginning
of Fiscal
Year
 Estimated
Useful
Life in
Years
 Additions Disposals Transfers Accumulated Transfers Disposals For
the

Fiscal
Year
 At Fiscal
Year-end
 12.31.20 12.31.19 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            

Real Estate Leased

 

 

306,758

 

 

50

 

 

4

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

607

 

 

 

(10,340

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,135

)

 

 

(16,475

)

 

 

290,894

 

 

 

296,418

 

 643,718  50   —     —     —    (50,428  —     —    (12,623 (63,051 580,667  593,290 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

 

 

306,758

 

 

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

607

 

 

 

(10,340

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,135

)

 

 

(16,475

)

 

 

290,894

 

 

 

296,418

 

  643,718    —     —     —     (50,428  —     —     (12,623  (63,051  580,667   593,290 
 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 
 Depreciation Net Book Value as
of
 

Item

 Value at
Beginning
of Fiscal
Year
 Estimated
Useful
Life in
Years
 Additions Disposals Transfers Accumulated Transfers Disposals For
the

Fiscal
Year
 At Fiscal
Year-end
 12.31.19 12.31.18 

Measurement at Cost

            

Real Estate Leased

 643,718  50   —     —     —    (34,503  —     —    (15,925 (50,428 593,290  609,215 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

  643,718    —     —     —     (34,503  —     —     (15,925  (50,428  593,290   609,215 
 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of Fiscal

Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful

Life in

Years

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Real Estate Leased

 

 

306,658

 

 

50

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(4,205

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,135

)

 

 

(10,340

)

 

 

296,418

 

 

 

302,453

 

Total

 

 

306,658

 

 

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(4,205

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,135

)

 

 

(10,340

)

 

 

296,418

 

 

 

302,453

 

F-107


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE G – CHANGES IN INTANGIBLE ASSETS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 ANDYEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

 Amortization Net Book Value as of 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of  Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful Life

in  Years

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

Transfers

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

 Value at
Beginning
of Year
 Estimated
Useful
Life
in Years
 Additions Disposals Transfers Accumulated Disposals For the
Fiscal
Year
 Transfers At Fiscal
Year-end
 12.31.20 12.31.19 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            

Licenses

 

 

2,396,683

 

 

5

 

 

902,855

 

 

 

(274,782

)

 

 

165,582

 

 

 

(1,532,497

)

 

 

269,303

 

 

 

(443,768

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,706,962

)

 

 

1,483,376

 

 

 

864,186

 

 9,207,786  5  1,538,775  (883,326 285,602  (4,876,308 880,785  (1,775,717  —    (5,771,240 4,377,597  4,331,478 

Intangible Assets Acquired for Financial Lease

 

 

48,555

 

 

5

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(46,956

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,599

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(48,555

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,599

 

Intangible Assets Acquired through Finance Leases

  —    5   —     —     —     —     —     —     —     —     —     —   

Other Intangible Assets

 

 

2,709,892

 

 

5

 

 

447,905

 

 

 

1,153

 

 

 

1,884,800

 

 

 

(1,850,763

)

 

 

(1,153

)

 

 

(88,063

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,939,979

)

 

 

3,103,771

 

 

 

859,129

 

 9,192,848  5  1,869,450  (65,848 1,954,963  (1,690,018 43,725  (1,213,896  —    (2,860,189 10,091,224  7,502,830 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

 

 

5,155,130

 

 

 

 

 

1,350,760

 

 

 

(273,629

)

 

 

2,050,382

 

 

 

(3,430,216

)

 

 

268,150

 

 

 

(533,430

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(3,695,496

)

 

 

4,587,147

 

 

 

1,724,914

 

  18,400,634    3,408,225   (949,174  2,240,565   (6,566,326  924,510   (2,989,613  —     (8,631,429  14,468,821   11,834,308 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 
 Amortization Net Book Value as of 

Item

 Value at
Beginning
of Year
 Estimated
Useful
Life
in Years
 Additions Disposals Transfers Accumulated Disposals For the
Fiscal
Year
 Transfers At Fiscal
Year-end
 12.31.19 12.31.18 

Measurement at Cost

            

Licenses

 7,725,431  5  2,428,246  (945,891  —    (4,660,546 1,066,224  (1,281,986  —    (4,876,308 4,331,478  3,064,885 

Intangible Assets Acquired through Finance Leases

 247,205  5   —    (247,205  —    (247,205 247,205   —     —     —     —     —   

Other Intangible Assets

 10,791,075  5  3,495,284  (5,093,511  —    (4,249,172 3,186,581  (627,427  —    (1,690,018 7,502,830  6,541,903 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

  18,763,711    5,923,530   (6,286,607  —     (9,156,923  4,500,010   (1,909,413  —     (6,566,326  11,834,308   9,606,788 
 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization

 

 

Net Book Value as of

 

Item

 

Value at

Beginning

of  Year

 

 

Estimated

Useful Life

in  Years

 

 

Additions

 

 

Disposals

 

 

Transfers

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

Disposals

 

 

For the

Fiscal

Year

 

 

Transfers

 

 

At Fiscal

Year-end

 

 

12.31.17

 

 

01.01.17

 

Measurement at Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Licenses

 

 

1,975,897

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

459,933

 

 

 

(8,776

)

 

 

(30,371

)

 

 

(1,195,405

)

 

 

5,320

 

 

 

(342,412

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,532,497

)

 

 

864,186

 

 

 

746,274

 

Intangible Assets Acquired for Financial Lease

 

 

48,555

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(42,599

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(4,357

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(46,956

)

 

 

1,599

 

 

 

5,957

 

Other Intangible Assets

 

 

2,601,004

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

78,517

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

30,371

 

 

 

(1,726,658

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(48,116

)

 

 

(75,989

)

 

 

(1,850,763

)

 

 

859,129

 

 

 

908,562

 

Total

 

 

4,625,456

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

538,450

 

 

 

(8,776

)

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,964,662

)

 

 

5,320

 

 

 

(394,885

)

 

 

(75,989

)

 

 

(3,430,216

)

 

 

1,724,914

 

 

 

1,660,793

 

F-108


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE H – CONCENTRATION OF DEPOSITS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

DEPOSITS

 

  DEPOSITS ACCOUNTS 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

  12.31.20 12.31.19 

Number of Customers

 

Outstanding

Balance

 

 

% of Total

Portfolio

 

 

Outstanding

Balance

 

 

% of Total

Portfolio

 

  Debt Balance   % on Total
Portfolio
 Debt Balance   % on Total
Portfolio
 

10 Largest Customers

 

 

26,929,214

 

 

 

7.0

%

 

 

15,086,593

 

 

 

5.0

%

   83,211,045    12 37,985,581    7

50 Following Largest Customers

 

 

21,892,330

 

 

 

6.0

%

 

 

16,602,732

 

 

 

6.0

%

100 Following Largest Customers

 

 

15,684,961

 

 

 

4.0

%

 

 

10,232,826

 

 

 

3.0

%

Remaining Customers

 

 

295,590,770

 

 

 

83.0

%

 

 

254,445,205

 

 

 

86.0

%

next 50 Largest Customers

   73,182,821    11 46,224,244    9

next 100 Largest Customers

   34,377,015    5 25,050,997    4

Rest of Customers

   485,624,854    72 426,772,874    80
  

 

   

 

  

 

   

 

 

TOTAL

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

100.0

%

 

 

296,367,356

 

 

 

100.0

%

   676,395,735    100  536,033,696    100
  

 

   

 

  

 

   

 

 

F-109


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE I – BREAKDOWN OF FINANCIAL LIABILITIES BY REMAINING CONTRACTUAL TERM

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

The following table shows the decline in contractual cash flows, including interest and other expenses to be accrued until undiscounted contractual maturity.

 

 

Terms Remaining to Maturity

 

 

 

 

 

  Terms until Maturity     

Item

 

1 Month

 

 

3 Months

 

 

6 Months

 

 

12 Months

 

 

24 Months

 

 

Over 24

Months

 

 

Total

 

  1 Month   3 Months   6 Months   12 Months   24 Months   More than
24 Months
   Total 

Deposits (1)

 

 

334,200,194

 

 

 

24,450,601

 

 

 

5,134,588

 

 

 

3,188,378

 

 

 

48,018

 

 

 

28,759

 

 

 

367,050,538

 

   636,596,852    41,458,685    3,548,892    2,563,927    79,300    43,104    684,290,760 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

8,339,749

 

 

 

234,368

 

 

 

31,446

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,605,563

 

   19,851,114    1,591,515    221,268    —      —      —      21,663,897 

Financial Sector

 

 

711,737

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

711,737

 

   1,947,127    —      —      —      —      —      1,947,127 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

325,148,708

 

 

 

24,216,233

 

 

 

5,103,142

 

 

 

3,188,378

 

 

 

48,018

 

 

 

28,759

 

 

 

357,733,238

 

   614,798,611    39,867,170    3,327,624    2,563,927    79,300    43,104    660,679,736 

Liabilities Measured at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

2,144,664

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,144,664

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

   57,450    —      —      —      —      —      57,450 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,948,559

 

Repurchase Transactions

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

63,065,272

 

 

 

13,610

 

 

 

13,462

 

 

 

33,365

 

 

 

54,096

 

 

 

99,229

 

 

 

63,279,034

 

   93,159,254    310,057    439,288    822,739    1,241,160    3,915,802    99,888,300 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

7,013,910

 

 

 

4,277,657

 

 

 

3,871,426

 

 

 

3,181,270

 

 

 

3,075,806

 

 

 

4,452,217

 

 

 

25,872,286

 

Debt Instruments Issued

 

 

1,301,031

 

 

 

3,595,675

 

 

 

4,061,549

 

 

 

13,262,785

 

 

 

18,941,709

 

 

 

8,545,150

 

 

 

49,707,899

 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   2,607,987    566,135    2,724,761    6,137,695    2,209,308    1,527,556    15,773,442 

Debt Securities

   736,438    1,142,112    5,014,445    8,055,337    3,440,751    2,908,502    21,297,585 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

384,557

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

384,557

 

 

 

769,114

 

 

 

14,031,650

 

 

 

15,569,878

 

   855,858    —      —      855,858    1,711,717    27,719,442    31,142,875 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

TOTAL

 

 

411,893,976

 

 

 

32,337,543

 

 

 

13,081,025

 

 

 

20,050,355

 

 

 

22,888,743

 

 

 

27,157,005

 

 

 

527,408,647

 

   734,013,839    43,476,989    11,727,386    18,435,556    8,682,236    36,114,406    852,450,412 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Maturities in the first month include:

Checking Accounts Ps.64,981,553.

Savings Accounts Ps.180,314,499.

Time Deposit Ps.110,225,705.

Other Deposits Ps.2,939,696.

Interest to be Accrued Ps.414.

- Checking Accounts $40,597,351

- Savings Accounts $198,745,046

- Time Deposit $92,624,930

- Other Deposits $2,214,249

- Interest to be Accrued $18,618

F-110


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE J – CHANGES IN PROVISIONS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 ANDYEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decreases

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balances as of

 

 

Balances as of

 

          Decreases   Balances as of 

Item

 

Balances at

Beginning

of Fiscal

Year

 

 

Increases

 

 

Reversals

 

 

Uses

 

 

Inflation Effect

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

  Balances at
the Beginning
of the Year
   Increase   Reversals Charge offs Inflation
Effect
 12.31.20   12.31.19 

INCLUDED IN LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FROM LIABILITIES

           

For Administrative, Disciplinary and Criminal Penalties

 

 

7,357

 

 

 

459

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(2,510

)

 

 

5,306

 

 

 

7,357

 

   7,224    517    —    (517 (1,918 5,306    7,224 

Provisions for Termination Benefits

 

 

109,295

 

 

 

43,130

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(11,532

)

 

 

(53,967

)

 

 

86,926

 

 

 

109,295

 

For Termination Benefits

   233,287    68,372    —    (14,880 (65,955 220,824    233,287 

Others

 

 

780,608

 

 

 

1,186,137

 

 

 

(26,426

)

 

 

(103,990

)

 

 

(479,238

)

 

 

1,357,091

 

 

 

780,608

 

   3,499,223    2,895,867    (1,694 (1,699,888 (1,143,341 3,550,167    3,499,223 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

   

 

 

TOTAL PROVISIONS

 

 

897,260

 

 

 

1,229,726

 

 

 

(26,426

)

 

 

(115,522

)

 

 

(535,715

)

 

 

1,449,323

 

 

 

897,260

 

   3,739,734    2,964,756    (1,694  (1,715,285  (1,211,214  3,776,297    3,739,734 
  

 

   

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

   

 

 


F-111


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE K – CAPITAL STOCK STRUCTURE

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Shares

Shares

 

 

Capital Stock

 

Shares

   Capital Stock 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

              Issued                 

Class

 

Amount

 

 

Face Value

per

Share(*)

 

 

Votes per Share

 

 

Outstanding

 

 

Treasury shares

 

 

Pending

Issuance or

Distribution

 

 

Allocated

 

 

Paid-in

 

 

Not Paid-in

 

  Quantity   Nominal Value
per

Share(*)
   Votes per Share   Outstanding   Portfolio shares   Pending
Issuance or
Distribution
   Allocated   Paid-in   Not Paid-in 

Class “A”

 

 

281,221,650

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

281,222

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

281,222

 

 

 

-

 

   281,221,650    1    5    281,222    —      —      —      281,222    —   

Class “B”

 

 

1,145,542,947

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1,145,543

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,145,543

 

 

 

-

 

   1,193,470,441    1    1    1,145,543    —      47,927    —      1,193,470    —   
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

 

 

1,426,764,597

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,426,765

 

 

 

-

 

   1,474,692,091        1,426,765    —      47,927    —      1,474,692    —   
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

(*)

Face value per share stated in Pesos.

F-112


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE L – FOREIGN CURRENCY BALANCES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

 

 

 

          12.31.20     

Items

 

Head

Office and

Argentine

Branches

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

Dollar

 

 

Euro

 

 

Real

 

 

Others

 

 

12.31.17

 

  Headquarters
and Branches
in the country
   12.31.20   Dollar   Euro   Real   Others   12.31.19 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

              

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

95,156,786

 

 

 

95,156,786

 

 

 

93,228,764

 

 

 

1,784,180

 

 

 

29,919

 

 

 

113,923

 

 

 

55,022,288

 

   154,833,168    154,833,168    150,152,951    4,294,070    34,040    352,107    123,758,431 

Debt Securities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

1,459,314

 

 

 

1,459,314

 

 

 

1,459,314

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,559,346

 

   4,491,304    4,491,304    4,491,304    —      —      —      7,573,471 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

19

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Assets

 

 

696,796

 

 

 

696,796

 

 

 

696,796

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,110,544

 

   2,566,427    2,566,427    2,566,427    —      —      —      3,271,423 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

96,433,507

 

 

 

96,433,507

 

 

 

96,251,314

 

 

 

180,546

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,647

 

 

 

60,023,454

 

   52,701,585    52,701,585    52,682,847    6,794    —      11,944    129,341,899 

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,817

 

Non-financial Public Sector

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

BCRA

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

881,831

 

 

 

881,831

 

 

 

881,831

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

487,227

 

   1,637,121    1,637,121    1,637,121    —      —      —      2,224,703 

To the Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

95,551,676

 

 

 

95,551,676

 

 

 

95,369,483

 

 

 

180,546

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,647

 

 

 

59,533,410

 

   51,064,464    51,064,464    51,045,726    6,794    —      11,944    127,117,196 

Other Debt Securities

 

 

4,381,538

 

 

 

4,381,538

 

 

 

4,381,538

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,369,176

 

   336,293    336,293    336,293    —      —      —      7,236,300 

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

3,350,460

 

 

 

3,350,460

 

 

 

3,350,460

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

207,176

 

   2,150,738    2,150,738    2,150,738    —      —      —      3,536,129 

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

28,215

 

 

 

28,215

 

 

 

24,765

 

 

 

3,450

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

30,585

 

   56,667    56,667    50,433    6,234    —      —      57,401 

Assets for Insurance Contracts

 

 

2,695

 

 

 

2,695

 

 

 

2,695

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,103

 

   9,885    9,885    9,885    —      —      —      —   

Other Non-financial Assets

 

 

23,313

 

 

 

23,313

 

 

 

23,313

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

14,452

 

   15,247    15,247    15,247    —      —      —      19,257 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

201,532,624

 

 

 

201,532,624

 

 

 

199,418,959

 

 

 

1,968,176

 

 

 

29,919

 

 

 

115,570

 

 

 

127,354,143

 

   217,161,314    217,161,314    212,456,125    4,307,098    34,040    364,051    274,794,311 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

              

Deposits

 

 

162,667,559

 

 

 

162,667,559

 

 

 

162,667,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

103,954,632

 

   166,261,399    166,261,399    166,261,399    —      —      —      194,949,936 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

6,225,968

 

 

 

6,225,968

 

 

 

6,225,968

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,104

 

   3,103,854    3,103,854    3,103,854    —      —      —      105,889 

Financial Sector

 

 

9,866

 

 

 

9,866

 

 

 

9,866

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

5,897

 

   3,411    3,411    3,411    —      —      —      18,910 

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

156,431,725

 

 

 

156,431,725

 

 

 

156,431,725

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

103,939,631

 

   163,154,134    163,154,134    163,154,134    —      —      —      194,825,137 

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

115,761

 

 

 

115,761

 

 

 

115,761

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —      507,440 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

21,173

 

 

 

21,173

 

 

 

21,173

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —      2,999 

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,894,876

 

 

 

1,894,876

 

 

 

1,894,876

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repurchase Transactions

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

8,003,308

 

 

 

8,003,308

 

 

 

7,660,730

 

 

 

319,285

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

23,293

 

 

 

4,464,789

 

   13,815,626    13,815,626    13,044,070    725,685    —      45,871    17,565,301 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

13,814,564

 

 

 

13,814,564

 

 

 

13,575,771

 

 

 

237,974

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

819

 

 

 

8,047,630

 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   8,610,719    8,610,719    8,610,719    —      —      —      24,493,392 

Debt Securities

 

 

3,886,288

 

 

 

3,886,288

 

 

 

3,886,288

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   4,828,657    4,828,657    4,828,657    —      —      —      8,399,357 

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

9,802,983

 

 

 

9,802,983

 

 

 

9,802,983

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,187,089

 

   21,653,546    21,653,546    21,653,546    —      —      —      21,100,718 

Liabilities for Insurance Contracts

 

 

2,967

 

 

 

2,967

 

 

 

2,967

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

21,351

 

   2,070    2,070    2,070    —      —      —      3,345 

Other Non-financial Liabilities

 

 

303,899

 

 

 

303,899

 

 

 

303,776

 

 

 

123

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,414,169

 

   1,033,146    1,033,146    1,032,065    1,081    —      —      652,975 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

200,513,378

 

 

 

200,513,378

 

 

 

199,931,884

 

 

 

557,382

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,112

 

 

 

125,089,660

 

   216,205,163    216,205,163    215,432,526    726,766    —      45,871    267,675,463 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

F-113


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE N – CREDIT ASSISTANCE TO AFFILIATES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Normal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Problems /

Medium Risk

 

With High Risk of

Insolvency / High

Risk

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

Items

 

Situation

 

 

With

Special

Follow-

up / Low

Risk

 

Not Past

Due

 

Past Due

 

Not Past

Due

 

Past Due

 

Uncollectible

 

Uncollectible

due to

Technical

Reasons

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

624,172

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

624,172

 

 

 

676,181

 

- Overdrafts

 

 

367,390

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

367,390

 

 

 

227,294

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or

   Counter-guarantees

 

 

367,390

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

367,390

 

 

 

227,294

 

- Promissory Notes

 

 

65,701

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

65,701

 

 

 

211,542

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or

   Counter-guarantees

 

 

65,701

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

65,701

 

 

 

211,542

 

- Mortgage and Collateral Loans

 

 

34,616

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

34,616

 

 

 

51,930

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

30,847

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

30,847

 

 

 

47,385

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or

   Counter-guarantees

 

 

3,769

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

3,769

 

 

 

4,545

 

- Personal Loans

 

 

2,050

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

2,050

 

 

 

4,561

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or

   Counter-guarantees

 

 

2,050

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

2,050

 

 

 

4,561

 

Situation          With Problems /
Medium Risk
   With High Insolvency
Risk / High

Risk
           Total 

Items

  Normal   With
Special
Follow-
up / Low

Risk
   Not
Past
Due
   Past
Due
   Not Past
Due
   Past Due   Uncollectible   Uncollectible
due to
Technical

Reasons
   12.31.20   12.31.19 

Loans and Other Financing

   952,242    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      952,242    857,397 

- Advances

   458,828    —      —      —     

 

—  

 

   —      —      —      458,828    57,481 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   928    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      928    —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   457,900    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      457,900    57,481 

- Overdraft

   204,694    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      204,694    523,465 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   180    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      180    —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   204,514    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      204,514    523,465 

- Mortgage and Collateral Loans

   16,911    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      16,911    47,901 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   12,591    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      12,591    34,041 

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   4,320    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      4,320    13,860 

- Personal Loans

   39,539    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      39,539    1,753 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   39,539    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      39,539    1,753 


F-114


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE N – CREDIT ASSISTANCE TO AFFILIATES (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020 AND 2019

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Situation          With Problems /
Medium Risk
   With High Insolvency
Risk / High

Risk
           Total 

Items

  Normal   With
Special
Follow-
up / Low

Risk
   Not
Past
Due
   Past
Due
   Not Past
Due
   Past Due   Uncollectible   Uncollectible
due to
Technical

Reasons
   12.31.20   12.31.19 

- Credit Cards

   217,867    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    217,867    204,101 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   424    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      424    —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —   

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   217,443    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      217,443    204,101 

- Other

   14,403    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      14,403    22,696 

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “A”

   2    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      2    —   

With Preferred Guarantees

and Counter-guarantees “B”

   2,660    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      2,660    862 

Without Preferred Guarantees or

Counter-guarantees

   11,741    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      11,741    21,834 

Debt Securities

   —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      —      132,318 

Investments in Equity Instruments

   392,757    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      392,757    274,752 

Contingent Commitments

   646,605    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      646,605    235,443 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL

   1,991,604    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      1,991,604    1,499,910 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

ALLOWANCES

   57,387    —      —      —      —      —      —      —      57,387    9,897 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Normal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Problems /

Medium Risk

 

With High Risk of

Insolvency / High

Risk

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

Items

 

Situation

 

 

With  Special

Follow-

up / Low

Risk

 

Not Past

Due

 

Past Due

 

Not Past

Due

 

Past Due

 

Uncollectible

 

Uncollectible

due to

Technical

Reasons

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

- Credit Cards

 

 

146,205

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

146,205

 

 

 

141,669

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees

   and Counter-guarantees “B”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

146,205

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

146,205

 

 

 

141,669

 

- Other

 

 

8,210

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

8,210

 

 

 

39,185

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees “A”

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Backed by Preferred Guarantees and Counter-guarantees ��B”

 

 

2,945

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

2,945

 

 

 

-

 

With No Preferred Guarantees or Counter-guarantees

 

 

5,265

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

5,265

 

 

 

39,185

 

Debt Securities

 

 

97,057

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

97,057

 

 

 

78,909

 

Equity Instruments

 

 

72,015

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

72,015

 

 

 

13,892

 

Contingent Commitments

 

 

163,195

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

163,195

 

 

 

234,470

 

TOTAL

 

 

956,439

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

956,439

 

 

 

1,003,452

 

ALLOWANCES

 

 

7,212

 

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

7,212

 

 

 

7,515

 

F-115


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE O – DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Type of Contract

 

Purpose of

Transactions

 

Underlying

Asset

 

Type of

Settlement

 

Trading

Environment

or

Counterparty

 

Originally-

Agreed

Weighted

Average

Term

 

 

Residual

Weighted

Average

Term

 

 

Weighted

Average

Term for

Settlement

of

Differences

 

 

Amount(*)

 

 Objective of
the
Operations
 Underlying
Asset
 Type of
Settlement
 Scope of Negotiation
or

Counterpart
 Weighted
Average
Term
Originally-

Agreed
 Residual
Weighted
Average
Term
 Weighted
Average
Term to
Settle
Differences
 Amount(*) 

Foreign Currency Forwards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forwards in Foreign Currency

        

OTC - Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily settlement of

the difference

 

MAE

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

1

 

 

 

6,266,280

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  
Foreign
currency
 
 
  
Daily settlement
of the difference
 
 
 MAE 4  1  1  

 

7,921,087

 

OTC - Sales

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily settlement of

the difference

 

MAE

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

1

 

 

 

598,865

 

ROFEX - Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily settlement of

the difference

 

ROFEX

 

4

 

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

 

32,595,287

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  
Foreign
currency
 
 
  

Daily settlement
of

the difference

 
 

 

 ROFEX 3  2  1  17,795,643 

ROFEX - Sales

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Daily settlement of

the difference

 

ROFEX

 

3

 

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

 

31,678,509

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  
Foreign
currency
 
 
  

Daily settlement
of

the difference

 
 

 

 ROFEX 3  2  1  14,328,423 

Forwards with Customers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

        

Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Upon maturity of

differences

 

OTC - Residents in

Argentina -

Non-financial sector

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

59

 

 

 

4,768

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  
Foreign
currency
 
 
  

Upon maturity
of

differences

 
 

 

 OTC -
Residents in

Argentina -

Non-financial
sector

 7  3  202  1,549,356 

Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Upon maturity of

differences

 

OTC – Residents

Abroad

 

2

 

 

1

 

 

59

 

 

 

3,669,186

 

Sales

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Foreign currency

 

Upon maturity of

differences

 

OTC - Residents in

Argentina -

Non-financial sector

 

4

 

 

1

 

 

110

 

 

 

10,156,620

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  
Foreign
currency
 
 
  

Upon maturity
of

differences

 
 

 

 OTC -
Residents in

Argentina -

Non-financial
sector

 4  2  123  12,563,375 

Repo Transactions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forward Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Argentine

government

securities

 

With delivery of the

underlying asset

 

MAE

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,965,824

 

Repurchase Transactions

        

Forward Sales

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Argentine

government

securities

 

With delivery of the

underlying asset

 

MAE

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,061,516

 

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
  

Argentine
government
securities
 
 
 
  

With delivery of
the

underlying asset

 
 

 

 MAE  
-
  
 
 
  
-
  
 
 
  -     61,923,889 

Swaps with Customers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

        

Fixed for Variable Interest Rate Swaps

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Others

 

Others

 

MAE

 

26

 

 

14

 

 

1

 

 

 

460,242

 

Cross Currency Swaps – Other Forward Purchases

 

Brokerage -

own account

 

Others

 

Others

 

OTC – Residents in

Argentina –

Financial

sector

 

61

 

 

60

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,561

 

Swaps of Fixed Interest Rate for Variable Rate

  

Brokerage
- own
account
 
 
 
 Others  Others  MAE 36  3  1  82,909 

 

(*)

Relates to the notional amount.

F-116


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE P – CATEGORIES OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair Value

through Profit

or Loss

 

 

Fair Value Hierarchy

 

          Fair Value
through Profit
or Loss
   Fair Value Hierarchy 

Items

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

Fair Value

through OCI

 

 

Mandatory

Measurement

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

  Amortized Cost   Fair Value
through
OCI
   Mandatory
Measurement
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 

FINANCIAL ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            

Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

143,309,428

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   175,423,476    —      —      —      —      —   

Cash

 

 

21,189,989

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   66,932,871    —      —      —      —      —   

Financial Institutions and Correspondents

 

 

122,119,439

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   108,490,605    —      —      —      —      —   

Debt Securities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

75,935,163

 

 

 

3,261,099

 

 

 

71,412,082

 

 

 

1,261,982

 

   —      —      155,419,560    24,824,475    129,236,300    1,358,785 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,785,640

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      2,165,032    —      547,929    1,617,103 

Repo Transactions

 

 

2,068,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repurchase Transactions

   60,995,643    —      —      —      —      —   

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

10,209

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   60,995,643    —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

2,057,867

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Assets

 

 

4,744,501

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,303,431

 

 

 

4,264,431

 

 

 

39,000

 

 

 

-

 

   7,301,643    —      2,791,983    2,760,728    31,255    —   

Loans and Other Financing

 

 

282,710,068

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   526,434,119    —      —      —      —      —   

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

11,777

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   334    —      —      —      —      —   

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

533

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   13,195    —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

7,519,894

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   14,700,600    —      —      —      —      —   

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

275,177,864

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   511,719,990    —      —      —      —      —   

Overdrafts

 

 

14,430,578

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Promissory Notes

 

 

36,020,263

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Advances

   29,219,431    —      —      —      —      —   

Overdraft

   143,769,344    —      —      —      —      —   

Mortgage Loans

 

 

11,793,007

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   16,486,335    —      —      —      —      —   

Collateral Loans

 

 

997,958

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Pledge Loans

   11,586,593    —      —      —      —      —   

Personal Loans

 

 

29,144,931

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   36,504,158    —      —      —      —      —   

Credit-card loans

 

 

113,395,362

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   241,793,015    —      —      —      —      —   

Financial Leases

 

 

2,168,862

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Finance Leases

   1,819,883    —      —      —      —      —   

Others

 

 

67,226,903

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   30,541,231    —      —      —      —      —   

Other Debt Securities

 

 

5,312,035

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   18,885,279    4,185,098    —      604,996    3,580,102    —   

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral

 

 

7,357,780

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,459,712

 

 

 

3,184,346

 

 

 

275,366

 

 

 

-

 

   16,681,884    —      2,035,559    2,035,559    —      —   

Investments in Equity Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

161,054

 

 

 

26,795

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

134,259

 

   —      —      5,711,684    234,774    —      5,476,910 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

TOTAL FINANCIAL ASSETS

 

 

445,501,888

 

 

 

9,112,099

 

 

 

85,645,000

 

 

 

19,848,770

 

 

 

73,512,088

 

 

 

1,396,241

 

   805,722,044    4,185,098    168,123,818    30,460,532    133,395,586    8,452,798 
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 


F-117


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE P – CATEGORIES OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 2018 AND ENDED

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT2020

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair Value

through Profit

or Loss

 

 

Fair Value Hierarchy

 

          Fair Value
through Profit
or Loss
   Fair Value Hierarchy 

Items

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

Fair Value

through OCI

 

 

Mandatory

Measurement

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

  Amortized Cost   Fair Value
through
OCI
   Mandatory
Measurement
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 

FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

            

Deposits

 

 

360,097,275

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   669,282,956    —      —      —      —      —   

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

8,569,383

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   21,537,481    —      —      —      —      —   

Financial Sector

 

 

711,737

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   1,947,127    —      —      —      —      —   

Non-financial Private Sector and Residents Abroad

 

 

350,816,155

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   645,798,348    —      —      —      —      —   

Checking Accounts

 

 

38,716,061

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   101,777,665    —      —      —      —      —   

Savings Accounts

 

 

192,476,801

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   313,702,281    —      —      —      —      —   

Time Deposit and Term Investments

 

 

114,172,231

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   230,318,402    —      —      —      —      —   

Others

 

 

5,451,062

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   7,112,779    —      —      —      —      —   

Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,144,664

 

 

 

1,366,785

 

 

 

777,879

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,835,789

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      57,450    —      57,450    —   

Repo Transactions

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Repurchase Transactions

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Argentine Central Bank

 

 

1,948,559

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   —      —      —      —      —      —   

Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

63,235,042

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   97,471,465    —      —      —      —      —   

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

19,446,028

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Debt Instruments Issued

 

 

29,983,653

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   13,833,439    —      —      —      —      —   

Debt Securities

   17,073,898    —      —      —      —      —   

Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

9,767,874

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

   21,653,546    —      —      —      —      —   
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

TOTAL FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

 

 

484,478,431

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,980,453

 

 

 

1,366,785

 

 

 

2,613,668

 

 

 

-

 

   826,428,083    —      57,450    —      57,450    —   
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

F-118


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE Q – INCOME STATEMENT BREAKDOWN

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 20182020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018,2020, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

 

Net Financial Income/(Expense)

 

 

Net Financial Income/(Expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 Net Financial Income/(Expense) 

Items

 

Originally

Designated  or

According  to Point

6.7.1 of  IFRS 9

 

 

Mandatory Measurement

 

 

OCI

 

 Originally
Designated or
According to
Point 6.7.1 of
IFRS 9
 Mandatory
Measurement
 OCI 

From Measurement of Financial Assets at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

Income (loss) from Government Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

13,907,910

 

 

 

87,485

 

  —    62,140,975  (337,707

Income (loss) from Private Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,545,299

 

 

 

-

 

Income (loss) from Corporate Securities

  —    4,721,625   —   

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,089,012

 

 

 

-

 

  —    2,469,302   —   

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

2,089,012

 

 

 

-

 

Repurchase Transactions

  —    1,746,892   —   

Interest Rate Swaps

  —    35,862   —   

Options

  —    686,548   —   

Income from Other Financial Assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

10,231

 

 

 

-

 

  —     —    (17,221
 

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total as of 12.31.20

  —     69,331,902   (354,928
 

 

  

 

  

 

 
 Net Financial Income/(Expense) 

Items

 Originally
Designated or
According to
Point 6.7.1 of
IFRS 9
 Mandatory
Measurement
 OCI 

From Measurement of Financial Assets at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   

Income (loss) from Government Securities

  —    84,885,379  847,564 

Income (loss) from Corporate Securities

  —    12,698,057   —   

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

  —    1,745,597   —   

Repurchase Transactions

  —    1,745,597   —   

Income from other Financial Assets

  —    (28,681 20,844 

From Measurement of Financial Liabilities at Fair Value through in Profit or Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

(199,734

)

 

 

-

 

  —    (148,856  —   

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

(89,686

)

 

 

-

 

Rate Swaps

 

 

-

 

 

 

(110,048

)

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Swaps

  —    (148,856  —   
 

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total as of 12.31.19

  —     99,151,496   868,408 
 

 

  

 

  

 

 
 Net Financial Income/(Expense) 

Items

 Originally
Designated or
According to
Point 6.7.1 of
IFRS 9
 Mandatory
Measurement
 OCI 

From Measurement of Financial Assets at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

   

Income (loss) from Government Securities

  —    29,127,105  (182,617

Income (loss) from Corporate Securities

  —    3,236,294   —   

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

  —    4,374,983   —   

Repurchase Transactions

  —    4,374,901   —   

Interest Rate Swaps

  —    82   —   

Income from other Financial Assets

  —    21,427   —   

From Measurement of Financial Liabilities at Fair Value through in Profit or Loss

   

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

  —    (418,300  —   

Repurchase Transactions

  —    (187,828  —   

Interest Rate Swaps

  —    (230,472  —   
 

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total as of 12.31.18

 

 

-

 

 

 

17,352,718

 

 

 

87,485

 

  —     36,341,509   (182,617
 

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

Net Financial Income/(Expense)

 

 

Net Financial Income/(Expense)

 

 

 

 

 

Items

 

Originally

Designated  or

According  to Point

6.7.1 of  IFRS 9

 

 

Mandatory Measurement

 

 

OCI

 

From Measurement of Financial Assets at Fair Value through Profit or Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from Government Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,488,192

 

 

 

434,732

 

Income (loss) from Private Securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,570,577

 

 

 

-

 

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,633

 

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

(1,944

)

 

 

-

 

Rate Swaps

 

 

-

 

 

 

41

 

 

 

-

 

Options

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,536

 

 

 

-

 

From Measurement of Financial Liabilities at Fair Value through in Profit or Loss

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

Income (Loss) from Derivative Financial Instruments

 

 

-

 

 

 

(599,064

)

 

 

-

 

Repo Transactions

 

 

-

 

 

 

(592,595

)

 

 

-

 

Rate Swaps

 

 

-

 

 

 

(9

)

 

 

-

 

Options

 

 

-

 

 

 

(6,460

)

 

 

-

 

Total as of 12.31.17

 

 

-

 

 

 

8,461,338

 

 

 

434,732

 

F-119


GRUPO FINANCIERO GALICIA S.A.

SCHEDULE Q – INCOME STATEMENT BREAKDOWN (Continued)

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCED JANUARY 1, 20182020 AND ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018,2020, PRESENTED IN COMPARATIVE FORMAT

Figures Stated in Thousands of Pesos ($(Ps.), Except as Otherwise Stated

 

Interest and Adjustments for Application of Effective Interest Rate of Financial Assets Measured

at Amortized Cost

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

  12.31.20 12.31.19 12.31.18 

Interest Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

On Cash and Due from Banks

 

 

794

 

 

 

174

 

   2,842  10,804  1,663 

On Private Securities

 

 

329,998

 

 

 

249,621

 

On Corporate Securities

   311,974  531,312  691,109 

On Government Securities

 

 

1,388,727

 

 

 

448,856

 

   9,183,108  6,405,292  2,908,388 

On Others Financial Assets

   —     —     —   

On Loans and Other Financing

 

 

75,808,217

 

 

 

52,711,908

 

   148,447,000  161,010,334  158,763,887 

Non-financial Public Sector

 

 

255

 

 

 

3,895

 

   —     —    534 

Financial Sector

 

 

2,103,750

 

 

 

1,106,641

 

   3,126,359  4,300,203  4,405,849 

Non-financial Private Sector

 

 

73,704,212

 

 

 

51,601,372

 

   145,320,641  156,710,131  154,357,504 

Overdrafts

 

 

9,838,737

 

 

 

4,409,363

 

Advances

   11,887,470  17,145,365  20,605,103 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

5,950,813

 

 

 

940,748

 

   13,075,809  17,497,492  12,462,689 

Collateral Loans

 

 

425,676

 

 

 

184,372

 

Pledge Loans

   1,421,653  956,238  891,486 

Personal Loans

 

 

9,148,888

 

 

 

7,717,394

 

   16,298,802  16,635,559  19,160,364 

Credit Card Loans

 

 

29,356,225

 

 

 

24,900,179

 

   47,207,293  64,903,224  61,485,538 

Financial Leases

 

 

604,211

 

 

 

539,236

 

Finance Leases

   351,863  760,736  1,266,432 

Others

 

 

18,379,662

 

 

 

12,910,080

 

   55,077,751  38,811,517  38,485,892 

On Repo Transactions

 

 

746,052

 

 

 

1,283,163

 

On Repurchase Transactions

   8,861,754  9,713,712  1,562,445 

Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

746,052

 

 

 

1,283,163

 

   8,788,748  9,246,541  669,436 

Other Financial Institutions

   73,006  467,171  893,009 
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

 

 

78,273,788

 

 

 

54,693,722

 

   166,806,678   177,671,454   163,927,492 
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Interest-related Expenses

  12.31.20 12.31.19 12.31.18 

On Deposits

   (79,482,905 (103,158,332 (68,499,156

Non-financial Private Sector

   (79,482,905 (103,158,332 (68,499,156

Checking Accounts

   —     —     —   

Savings Accounts

   (11,312 (8,577 (11,127

Time Deposit and Term Investments

   (62,823,955 (90,832,354 (59,908,890

Others

   (16,647,638 (12,317,401 (8,579,139

Financing Received from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

   (1,744,423 (3,340,252 (4,525,891

On Repurchase Transactions

   (303,406 (921,267 (462,321

BCRA

   —     —     —   

Other Financial Institutions

   (303,406 (921,267 (462,321

On Other Financial Liabilities

   (953,190 (1,777,996 (1,629,043

On Debt Securities

   (6,097,288 (19,388,515 (17,407,231

On Subordinated Debt Securities

   (1,593,246 (1,667,719 (1,531,304
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

   (90,174,458  (130,254,081  (94,054,946
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Fee Income

  12.31.20 12.31.19 12.31.18 

Fee Related to Credit cards

   21,255,723  21,604,202  20,435,229 

Fee related to Insurance

   1,715,661  1,797,953  1,873,037 

Fee related to Obligation

   11,468,853  12,432,094  13,500,354 

Fee Related to Credits

   8,152,466  6,720,278  9,844,715 

Fee Related to Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

   109,796  488,101  445,892 

Fee Related to Securities

   1,774,362  1,960,554  2,216,784 

Fee for Collections Management

   352,494  701,034  620,683 

Fee for Foreign and Exchange Transactions

   1,646,077  2,142,517  2,157,143 
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

   46,475,432   47,846,733   51,093,837 
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Fee-related Expenses

  12.31.20 12.31.19 12.31.18 

Fees related to Transactions with Securities

   (161,629 (669,422 (116,951

Fees related to Credit Cards

   (5,348,957 (4,787,867 (3,867,245

Fees related to foreign operations and exchange

   (483,529 (214,548 (122,656

Others

   (3,923,758 (3,941,660 (2,230,653
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

Total

   (9,917,873  (9,613,497  (6,337,505
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

F-110

Interest-related Expenses

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

On Deposits

 

 

32,707,683

 

 

 

17,513,792

 

Non-financial Private Sector

 

 

32,707,683

 

 

 

17,513,792

 

Checking Accounts

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,050

 

Savings Accounts

 

 

5,313

 

 

 

5,577

 

Time Deposit and Term Investments

 

 

28,705,508

 

 

 

16,757,655

 

Others

 

 

3,996,862

 

 

 

749,510

 

Loans from the Argentine Central Bank and Other Financial Institutions

 

 

2,161,069

 

 

 

1,194,039

 

On Repo Transactions

 

 

220,754

 

 

 

358,122

 

Other Financial Institutions

 

 

220,754

 

 

 

358,122

 

On Other Financial Liabilities

 

 

5,631,783

 

 

 

3,840,613

 

On Debt Securities Issued

 

 

3,457,853

 

 

 

1,352,934

 

On Subordinated Debt Securities

 

 

731,183

 

 

 

560,187

 

Total

 

 

44,910,325

 

 

 

24,819,687

 

Fee Income

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Fee and Commissions Related to Transactions

 

 

7,180,303

 

 

 

7,231,662

 

Fee and Commissions Related to Credits

 

 

13,748,348

 

 

 

16,339,180

 

Fee and Commissions Related to Loan Commitments and Financial Guarantees

 

 

 

 

212,909

 

 

 

206,141

 

Fee and Commissions Related to Transferable Securities

 

 

1,058,493

 

 

 

797,022

 

Fee and Commissions on Collection Proceedings

 

 

34,192

 

 

 

44,186

 

Fee and Commissions on Foreign and Exchange Rate Transactions

 

 

1,030,015

 

 

 

780,270

 

Total

 

 

23,264,260

 

 

 

25,398,461

 

Fee-related Expenses

 

 

 

12.31.18

 

 

12.31.17

 

Fees and Commissions Related to Transactions with Securities

 

 

55,843

 

 

 

29,489

 

Others

 

 

2,970,254

 

 

 

3,223,346

 

Total

 

 

3,026,097

 

 

 

3,252,835

 

F-120