MTLS Smiles at the First Curve, Surging Strongly by 40%, Expecting Q1/2018 Performance as the 13th Consecutive Quarter, Emphasizing Fair Interest Rates to Customers, Aiming to Change the Name to MTC, Erasing the 'Lease-to-Own' Image

MTLS, outstanding since the beginning of the year, revealed lending figures for the first two months of 2018, surging by 40%. While maintaining Non-Performing Loans (NPL) at a low of less than 1.2-1.5%, supporting an anticipated performance aiming for consecutive high points in the 13^th quarter since entering the stock market. They confidently aim to achieve this year's lending target of 80 billion baht comfortably, reiterating never overstepping legal interest boundaries, confirmed by customer satisfaction. They clarified plans to change the name to MTC to eliminate misconceptions, specifying the business as 'loan' rather than 'lease-to-own.'

Mr. Chuchat Petaumpai, CEO of Muangthai Leasing Public Company Limited (MTLS), stated that the company's performance in the past year's beginning period has shown clear growth. The expansion of over 40% in new loans during January-February outperformed the same period last year. With more branches contributing to an increased customer base, they are confident that both Q1/2018 and the entire year will meet the set target of loan growth worth 80 billion baht, a growth of over 40% from the previous year. Additionally, the company remains focused on stringent loan quality control, keeping the Non-Performing Loan ratio below 1.2-1.5% going forward. This level remains lower than the industry standard. The company's goal for year-end outstanding loans is set at 50 billion baht, an increase from the previous year's 35 billion baht.

'The initial two months of this year have been very promising. Business is on track with our goals: a 40% increase in loan growth, with the NPL at only 1.2-1.5%. We don't anticipate needing more reserves this year than usual. Therefore, we are confident that both Q1 and the entire year's performance will be impressively consistent,' stated Mr. Chuchat Petaumpai, CEO

Regarding misunderstandings in the news that the company imposes excessively high interest rates, MTLS confirmed that their contract terms with customers have always been in line with legal frameworks. Satisfied customers widely recommend the company as a preferable option for accessing loans in a trustworthy and convenient system compared to high-interest loans outside the regulated systems.

Regarding the plan for a new name, Muangthai Capital or MTC, is intended to eliminate misconceptions among investors, both domestic and foreign, ensuring a correct understanding that the company is engaged in the 'loan' business, not 'lease-to-own.' However, the name change process is pending further consultation and approval from shareholders.

'There have been several misunderstandings about us recently, including assumptions about us imposing excessively high interest rates or engaging in lease-to-own businesses. I want to reiterate that we are a publicly-listed company complying with all legal regulations. Our interest rates are fair to our customers and offer a good option for people to access loans conveniently without the risks associated with borrowing outside regulated systems. To clear any confusion, our Board has decided to change the name to Muangthai Capital or MTC' concluded Mr. Chuchat Petaumpai