Askari Bank has posted a record profit after tax (PAT) of Rs. 7.5 billion for the third quarter of CY25. This translates into earnings per share (EPS) of Rs. 5.18, up 112 percent compared to Rs. 3.5 billion (EPS: Rs. 2.44) in the same quarter last year.
The bank’s nine-month profit (9MCY25) reached Rs. 18.1 billion, showing a 28 percent year-on-year growth. Along with the results, Askari Bank announced an interim dividend of Rs. 1.25 per share, following a Rs. 2.00 per share payout in the previous quarter. The last interim dividend before this was declared in 1QCY14 at Rs. 1.0 per share.
Net interest income grew 21 percent year-on-year to Rs. 22.9 billion, supported by better spreads and a 46 percent reduction in interest expense. Non-funded income surged 69 percent YoY, driven by higher capital gains and foreign exchange earnings.
Operating expenses rose 23 percent YoY to Rs. 13.6 billion. Despite higher costs, the cost-to-income ratio improved to 41.6 percent from 55.4 percent last year, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency. The bank booked a provision reversal of Rs. 1.7 billion, compared to a charge of Rs. 2.6 billion in the same quarter of CY24.
Advances increased 13 percent YoY, while deposits rose 11 percent to Rs. 1.63 trillion, ensuring a strong balance sheet. Asset quality improved, showing lower reliance on borrowing and stronger credit discipline.
The effective tax rate stood at 39.4 percent, compared to 41.6 percent in the previous year. Analysts say this performance demonstrates Askari Bank’s strong growth, operational efficiency, and resilience in Pakistan’s banking sector.
In other related news also read Askari Bank To Establish Its Own Currency Exchange Firm
With consistent profitability and a solid financial position, Askari Bank is well-positioned to continue expanding its services and maintaining sustainable growth in the coming years.
