The bank reported a net profit of Sh12.4 billion for the six months ended June 2026 NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora /HANDOUT NCBA Group shareholders are set for a higher interim dividend after the Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed bank reported a net profit of Sh12.4 billion for the six months ended June 2026.
This is a 12.2 per cent rise in half-year net profit, from Sh11 billion that was reported in the same period last year. The lender attributed the growth to digital banking and customer deposits despite a sharp increase in provisions for bad loans. The improved earnings enabled the board to declare an interim dividend of Sh3.75 per share, up from Sh2.50 paid during the corresponding period last year, handing shareholders a 50 per cent increase in their mid-year payout.
“Our balance sheet momentum remained strong, we managed our non-performing loans well at 10.5 per cent compared to the market’s 15.3 per cent (Kenya) and stable funding provided by customer deposit growth,” said NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora. “We have increased provisions to Sh5.2 billion reflecting the realities of the current operating environment which positions us well to absorb potential risks.” The higher distribution comes as listed banks continue to reward investors with improved earnings after navigating a challenging operating environment marked by cautious lending, easing inflation and lower interest rates across the region.
NCBA's total operating income climbed 15.1 per cent to Sh40.7 billion, supported by increased business volumes, improved lending margins and continued growth in customer activity. Customer deposits rose 11 per cent to Sh551 billion, while total assets expanded 11.5 per cent to Sh739 billion, reflecting continued balance sheet growth.
However, the bank also significantly increased the amount set aside to cushion against potential loan defaults. Credit loss provisions jumped to Sh5.2 billion, compared with Sh3.2 billion a year earlier, highlighting the continued pressure some borrowers face despite improving macroeconomic conditions.