Stanbic Holdings Plc has reported a resilient financial performance for the first half of 2026, posting a profit after-tax of Ksh6.6 billion ($50.965 million), underpinned by strong balance sheet growth, disciplined risk management and increased lending to key sectors of the economy.

The group’s total assets grew by 27 per cent to Ksh602 billion ($4.65 billion), while customer deposits rose by 28 per cent to Ksh422 billion ($3.258 billion), reflecting sustained customer confidence and liquidity strength. Customer loans increased by 24 per cent to Ksh290 billion ($2.239 billion) driven by continued financing of businesses in trade, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and other productive sectors that support economic expansion.

Chief Executive Officer Joshua Oigara said the results demonstrate the bank’s resilience and disciplined execution despite a challenging operating environment characterised by global and domestic uncertainties.

“Our performance in the first half demonstrates the discipline and resilience that continue to define our business. We remain well capitalised, deeply customer centric and steadfast in our commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic growth,” he said.

He added that the bank’s prudent risk management approach, coupled with sustained investments in technology, is enhancing client experience while strengthening long term shareholder value.

The results come as Kenya’s banking sector adjusts to the full implementation of the Kenya Shilling Overnight Interbank Average based risk pricing framework, amid cautious monetary policy, geopolitical uncertainty, elevated energy costs and a volatile global economic outlook.

Despite these headwinds, the group maintained one of the strongest asset quality indicators in the sector, recording a credit loss ratio of 0.5 per cent and a non performing loan ratio of 7.73 per cent, which remains below the industry average.

Chief Finance and Value Officer Dennis Musau attributed the performance to prudent execution, cost discipline and gradually improving economic conditions supporting private sector activity.

“Our half year financial performance reflects a disciplined balance between revenue growth, cost optimisation and proactive risk management. The rebound in private sector credit signals a healthier operating environment and we are well positioned to support this growth while maintaining strong risk discipline and delivering sustainable earnings,” he said.

During the review period, the group extended more than Ksh21 billion in financing to small and medium sized enterprises, reinforcing its commitment to entrepreneurship, business expansion, and job creation across the country.

Through the Stanbic Foundation, the institution further strengthened support for micro, small and medium enterprises by providing Ksh181 billion in concessionary lending to enable businesses to start, grow, and scale sustainably.

The group also recorded strong growth in its wealth management business, with assets under management increasing by 63 per cent to Ksh7 billion, as more customers sought diversified investment opportunities in response to market dynamics.

As part of its digital transformation strategy, the bank introduced new mobile banking features and rolled out Dynamic Currency Conversion across its ATM network to improve convenience, accessibility and overall customer experience.

Its customer base grew by six percent to 258,000 during the period, reflecting continued investment in service delivery, innovation, and digital channels that enhance engagement.

Looking ahead, Dr Oigara said the group remains focused on supporting clients, accelerating digital transformation, strengthening its balance sheet and delivering sustainable returns to shareholders despite prevailing macroeconomic challenges.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Wangari Ndirangu