KCB Group PLC has posted a robust KShs 68.4 billion profit after tax for the year ending December 2025, an 11% increase from the previous year, driven by a growing loan book, strong income from key business lines, and disciplined cost management.
The bank’s customer loans surged 15% to KShs 1.59 trillion, supporting interest-earning assets that reached KShs 1.84 trillion, a 13.8% year-on-year increase.
The Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio improved to 16.9%, down from 19.2% the previous year, reflecting proactive rehabilitation, aggressive recovery strategies, and the divestment in National Bank of Kenya.
Total assets grew 9.3% to KShs 2.15 trillion, while total revenues climbed to KShs 214 billion, fueled by higher net interest income and strong non-funded income, which accounted for 31% of revenues through digital banking investments.
KCB’s regional diversification strategy continued to pay off, with subsidiaries outside Kenya contributing 30.7% of profit before tax and 30.5% of the Group’s balance sheet.
Non-banking subsidiaries also posted strong growth, including KCB Asset Management (+54%), KCB Investment Bank (+31%), and KCB Bancassurance Intermediary (+29%).
CEO Paul Russo commented, “Our 2025 performance reflects the strength of the KCB franchise and resilience of our regional footprint. We remain committed to supporting sector-focused lending, driving economic transformation, and delivering long-term value to shareholders.”
The Board proposed a final dividend of KShs 3 per share, adding to the KShs 4 interim payout, bringing total dividends to KShs 7 per share (KShs 22 billion).
KCB also strengthened its capital and liquidity position, with a core capital ratio of 18.4% and liquidity at 50.8%, well above regulatory requirements. Shareholder returns remained robust, with ROAE at 22.5% and ROA at 3.3%, while shareholder funds stood at KShs 331 billion.
In line with its digital expansion and ESG commitments, KCB launched a new unified mobile banking app, invested in Pesapal Limited to boost digital commerce, and partnered with the African Development Bank for a $150 million green finance facility.
The Group also sponsored the 2026 World Rally Championship Safari Rally, marking six years of continuous support.
Chairman Dr. Joseph Kinyua noted, “Despite global uncertainties, we remain optimistic about sustainable growth across East Africa, guided by strong governance and strategic oversight.”
KCB’s consistent financial performance, risk management, and regional expansion position the bank as a leading player in East Africa’s banking sector, recognized locally and globally, including being named Top Bank in Africa by The Banker.
