"Continued consolidation of NTB's franchise alongside sustained improvements to its credit profile may result in a rating upgrade," the agency said.
"In particular, such improvements may be manifested in capitalisation, asset quality and funding profile, bringing them to levels closer to those of higher-rated commercial banks.
"Aggressive loan growth or increased risk appetite, for instance, through the execution of its expansion plan, leading to a weakened credit profile may result in a rating downgrade.
"
Fitch said 65 percent exposure to consumer and small and medium enterprises could put asset quality under pressure.
Gross non performing loans rose slightly to 2.
9 percent at the end of the first half of 2012 from 2.
8 percent at the end of the 2011.
"Fitch expects asset quality to be managed through close credit monitoring and improved risk management systems," the agency said.
The full statement is reproduced below:
Fitch Affirms Nations Trust Bank at 'A(