Ecobank Transnational Incorporated reported a first-half 2025 profit before tax of $398 million, a 23% year-on-year increase, according to unaudited financial results released Tuesday.
The pan-African banking group achieved this growth alongside a record cost-to-income ratio of 49.1% its first dip below 50% in over a decade driven by net revenue climbing 12% to $1.1 billion.
Customer deposits surged by $3.4 billion year-to-date to $23.9 billion, with 83% held in low-cost current and savings accounts. Group CEO Jeremy Awori attributed the performance to disciplined execution of its Growth, Transformation, and Returns strategy, noting resilience amid macroeconomic headwinds. The Corporate and Investment Banking division led growth with a 44% profit surge to $323 million, while Consumer and Commercial Banking rose 10% to $216 million.
Regionally, Francophone West Africa’s profit increased 12% to $176 million. Anglophone West Africa, significantly influenced by Ghana’s recovery, saw a 19% rise to $175 million. Nigeria’s profit jumped 45% to $9 million, signaling operational improvements. Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa delivered a 27% increase to $207 million. Asset quality strengthened, with non-performing loans declining to 5.7% from 6.7% in December 2024.
Ecobank highlighted technology investments, including a landmark partnership with Google Cloud to modernize digital infrastructure. The collaboration aims to enhance payment innovation and security across its 35 African markets. Capital buffers remained robust, hovering approximately 300 basis points above regulatory minimums.
