September 18, (THEWILL) — Zenith Bank Plc, on Thursday, published its interim financial results for half year (H1) 2025, ended June 30.
According to the financial results released on Thursday, on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Profit Before Tax (PBT) dropped by 14% to N625.63 billion as against N727.03 billion declared in corresponding half year of 2024.
The result also showed a 7.9% decline in Profit After Tax (PAT) to N532.18 billion from N578.00 billion in H1 2024, translating to an Earning Per Share (EPS) of N12.95 from N18.41 in H1 2024.
Earnings momentum in H1 2025 was constrained by weaker trading income and significantly higher credit impairment charges, while EPS also declined due to the impact of new share issuances.
The Board proposed an interim dividend of N1.25/share as against N1.00/share in H1 2024, translating to a dividend yield of 1.9% based on the last closing price of N66.95/share.
The elevated interest rate environment continues to be a positive for banks, driving a 60% increase in interest income to N1.84 trillion.
Across contributory lines, income from customer loans grew by 53.3% to N935.75 billion, loans to banks rose by 71.1% to N121.08 billion, while gains from fixed income securities surged by 67.1% to N782.41 billion.
However, interest expense rose modestly by 11.5% to N484.53 billion, reflecting increased customer deposit costs (+34.6 percent to N349.84 billion), partly offset by lower borrowing expenses (-23.5% to N132.38 billion).
As a result, net interest income nearly doubled (+89.5%) to N1.35 trillion. After accounting for higher credit impairment charges (+83.2% to N760.81 billion), net interest income (ex-LLE) settled at N593.91 billion (+98.1%).
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
