HSBC Group is supposedly evaluating its operations in Algeria and could exit the country, in the framework of a strategy to reposition itself in more profitable markets, Bloomberg said citing sources close to operation who demanded not to be named.

The group has not taken any decision yet and its management declined comment regarding the information. However, its CEO, Stuart Gulliver, maintains his plan to reduce HSBC’s footprint in non-profitable markets. Under this plan, 87,000 jobs were cut and the group is now present in 71 countries only, against 88 previously.

Across MENA (Middle East and Northern Africa) where Algeria is, the group had the lowest profits, $2.5 billion, and an almost-stable performance compared to 2014. A trend which prolonged during the first quarter of 2016, with $674 million of profit, the lowest still when compared to other parts of the world where it is present. Recent measures taken by G20 against illicit capital flows and the scandal related to HSBC Swiss’ accounts might have spurred the group’s decision.