Ecobank, a pan-African banking group, has announced its performance for the first nine months of 2026, revealing a net banking revenue of $2 billion and a pre-tax profit of $737 million. This represents a 12% increase in pre-tax profit compared to the same period in 2025. The growth is attributed to the group's optimization efforts, deposit mobilization, technological investments, and the implementation of its Growth, Transformation, and Returns (GTR) strategy.
The group's net banking revenue reached $2 billion, a 12% increase from the previous year. Ecobank's customer deposits stood at $27.5 billion, with 85% consisting of current accounts and savings accounts. This growth in deposits reflects the trust clients have in the bank for their daily banking operations. The bank's pre-tax profit growth was driven by a 20% increase in Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa (CESA) and a 10% increase in Anglophone West Africa (AWA).
Ecobank's operating efficiency ratio improved to 47.8%, better than the 2026 target of 48-50%. This improvement is a result of the bank's initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across the group. The bank's diversified economic model and geographical presence helped mitigate the impact of economic challenges in certain African markets. The group's Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy Awori, expressed satisfaction with the results, citing the bank's resilience and growth.
Awori highlighted that the bank's payment and digital banking services continue to drive growth, with a 9% increase in payment revenues. The bank's investments in technology and digital platforms aim to improve customer experience and accelerate financial inclusion in Africa. Ecobank's non-performing loan (NPL) ratio remained stable at 7.5%, within the target range of 6-8% for 2026.
The bank's growth strategy is built on its diversified business model, with balanced contributions from its Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and Commercial Banking (CCB) segments. Ecobank's expansion into new markets and strengthening of its international presence were marked by the inauguration of its new offices in Beijing and a partnership with the Chinese interbank payment system (CIPS).
The partnership with CIPS and the opening of the Beijing office signal a new phase in China-Africa trade and financial cooperation. Ecobank celebrated its 40th anniversary by announcing a $2.6 billion commitment to support economic development in Africa. The bank's growth trajectory is expected to continue, driven by its solid deposit base, liquidity position, and capital strength.
Despite potential risks such as energy price volatility, inflation, and exchange rate fluctuations, Ecobank is confident in its ability to navigate these challenges and achieve its 2026 objectives. The bank's CEO expressed gratitude to employees for their dedication to serving clients and driving growth. Ecobank's performance demonstrates its resilience and commitment to supporting economic development in Africa.
Key points
- Ecobank's pre-tax profit increased by 12% to $737 million.
- The bank's net banking revenue reached $2 billion, a 12% increase from the previous year.
- Customer deposits grew by 14% to $27.5 billion, with 85% consisting of current accounts and savings accounts.
