Sterling HoldCo closed 2025 with a near-doubling of profit, defying challenging economic conditions.
The Group reported unaudited profit before tax of ₦90.73 billion, up 98.3% year-on-year.
Strong Core Banking
Notably, growth came from core banking income, with interest from loans and investments rising sharply.
Consequently, gross earnings increased 46% to ₦476.50 billion, supported by better yields and stronger non-interest income.
Net interest income grew 55% to ₦208.89 billion, despite a 29.5% rise in interest expenses.
Loans and advances contributed ₦242.38 billion, up 32%, thereby reinforcing Sterling HoldCo’s interest-earning base.
Meanwhile, net fees and commission climbed 31% to ₦44.8 billion, while trading income more than doubled to ₦30.9 billion.
Credit loss expenses surged 147.5% to ₦26.75 billion, yet the Group reduced non-performing loans to 4.7%.
Sterling HoldCo Strong Balance Sheet
Total assets reached ₦3.92 trillion, driven by growth in loans, advances, and investment securities.
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Loans and advances rose to ₦1.42 trillion, further strengthening the Group’s capacity to generate interest income.
Customer deposits increased 18.2% to ₦2.98 trillion, reflecting continued confidence in Sterling HoldCo’s franchise.
Total equity jumped 39% to ₦424.05 billion, supported by an 82.7% rise in retained earnings.
At the same time, the Group reduced debt securities issued by 44% while increasing other borrowed funds, showing funding flexibility.
Profitable Momentum
Profit after tax rose 79.7% to ₦78.63 billion, and earnings per share reached 157 kobo.
Shares closed at ₦7.30 on 30 January 2026, down 2% on the day but up 3.55% year-to-date.
In 2024, profit after tax more than doubled to ₦43.68 billion, with earnings per share at 151 kobo.
By September 2025, profit after tax jumped 127% year-on-year to ₦62.3 billion, signalling strong momentum.
Overall, Sterling HoldCo enters 2026 well-positioned, with stronger balance sheets, rising deposits, and diversified income streams.
