July 29, 2009 - 20:32 AMT
INTERVIEW
Gurgen Narimanyan:
Gurgen Narimanyan: those who survived in crisis are quids in
Economic crisis offer new opportunities for a large number of companies. Financial director of STAR supermarket network Gurgen Narimanyan comments to PanARMENIAN.Net how to float.
How would you assess the current economic situation in Armenia? Is there any progress?
I think everyone knows that the global financial crisis will have grave consequences for the economies of all countries. Armenia is not an exception. Our banks have not granted jumbo credits since October 2008. It specifically refers to construction industry. Prices for real estate eased by 40%. Construction projects were reduced by 50%. Retail dropped by 15%. I suppose it will be possible to make a thorough analysis when the economy development index is officially announced. But it's obvious that our economy will be affected badly. Like in other countries, we can expect real sector damages and unemployment. It's premature to speak of progress, because even those countries which have already reached the bottom of the crisis still anticipate a second negative wave.
When will we witness the results of financial injections administered by our government?
The crisis has revealed a number of urgent problems in the Armenian economy. I can't judge about commensurability of the injections and their efficiency but the government should realize the urgency of problems and strive for maximal effect. At that, financial injections should be a part of leveraged tax policy.
Do you agree with the government's worst-case scenario for a 20% GDP slump?
I suppose the slump will be 16-18% and the worst-case scenario will not come true.
Financial crisis is often described as a phenomenon providing new opportunities? Which are these opportunities for your company?
True, the crisis offered new opportunities. Those who survived the storm can share large profits. It's necessary to adopt the new reality and attract as many customers as possible, specifically the middle and lower strata of the population.