Absa Modernises Credit Risk Management With SAS Viya on AWS, Cuts Reporting Cycles by Up to 90%

Absa Bank has modernised its credit risk management platform using SAS Viya, an AI and data analytics platform, running on Amazon Web Services, cutting reporting cycles by 80% to 90%.

The Modernisation

Absa partnered with SAS, a global data and AI company, to move from a legacy infrastructure that relied on manual scripts and fragmented workflows to SAS Viya on AWS, a cloud-native analytics platform. The bank set up a centre of excellence to lead the transition.

Impact

The new system has reduced reporting cycles by 80% to 90% — from weeks to hours — and helps the bank roll out new credit risk models 50% faster than before, while strengthening model monitoring and governance capability.

Why It Changed

The bank's previous system relied on manual scripts and siloed processes, which the company described as unsustainable. The new platform includes common reports and dashboards across models, automated processes intended to lower manual intervention and error, and real-time information for business and regulatory users.

Why it matters

Absa said the modernisation is aimed at improving the speed and efficiency of credit decision-making while strengthening regulatory compliance.