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Access Bank (Ghana) Limited has indicated that it is poised to become one of the top 3 Banks in Ghana within the next 5 years in terms of financial performance and general banking. Access Bank�s Profit Before Tax (PBT) increased by 261% from GHS12.87 million in 2011 to GHS 46.43 million in 2012 while Gross Earnings increased by 347%; from GHS37.70 million to GHS 168.40 million, underscoring the Bank�s increased earning capacity. Similarly, its Pre-Tax Return on Assets ratio also remained as one of the industry�s highest, standing at 5.8%, which is almost 2% above the industry average of about 4%. Speaking at the bank�s 5th Annual General Meeting, The Board Chairman Herbert Wigwe said the Banks strength and resilience were tested by the post merger and regulatory trials during the integration of Intercontinental Bank into Access Bank. According to him, despite the challenges, the Bank continued to post a strong financial performance which was consistent with results of the past four years. He said that the continuous focus on strong corporate governance and risk management structures that are akin to global best practices is ensuring that the Ghana franchise is sustainable and provides the needed value for shareholders and host communities. The Managing Director of the bank, Dolapo Ogundimu speaking on the strategies the Bank will be pursing in the coming year noted that Access Bank will strengthen its retail business with new investments in technology and innovative banking solutions. He mentioned that the Bank will also increase its national footprint by expanding its branch network and automated channels. This year will see an additional four branches in new locations. The AGM which was the first after the successful integration of Intercontinental Bank into Access Bank saw an increase in the shareholder base of the newly merged entity. At the end of the meeting, shareholders expressed satisfaction at the Banks performance and adopted the 2012 audited financials as presented by KPMG for the period. Shareholders also approved the appointment of Messrs PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as the new Auditors of the Bank in line with global best practice and the Banks corporate governance framework. Meanwhile, Dela Se lormey, a Banker and immediate past Head of the Banking Supervision Department of the Bank of Ghana has been appointed as a new director of the bank�s Board.