GCB Bank PLC has announced a final dividend of GH₵1.00 per share for the 2025 financial year after securing approval from the Bank of Ghana, marking a significant milestone for shareholders.
The announcement was made at the bank’s 32nd Annual General Meeting, where Board Chairman Joshua Alabi acknowledged that a similar proposal in 2024 was rejected by regulators.
“Last year, the regulatory authorities did not approve our proposed dividend. This was disappointing, not only for you, our valued shareholders, but also for us as directors,” he said, adding that “your concerns are our concerns.”
Engagement with Regulator Yields Results
Professor Alabi noted that the bank undertook extensive engagement with the central bank over the past year to address regulatory concerns, leading to the approval.
“I am delighted to announce that the Bank of Ghana has granted approval for the payment of dividends for the 2025 financial year,” he stated, confirming the GH₵1.00 per share payout.
The bank also expressed appreciation to the regulator for its cooperation and support throughout the process.
The dividend declaration is underpinned by robust financial results recorded in 2025. Managing Director Farihan Alhassan reported a 67.4 percent increase in operating profit to GH₵3.17 billion, alongside a 40.9 percent rise in operating income to GH₵6.3 billion.
“The Group posted a 67.4% year-on-year growth in operating profit… while operating income grew by 40.9%,” he noted, describing the performance as broad-based.
Despite pressures on interest margins, the bank maintained a Net Interest Margin of 14.4 percent, supported by strong deposit mobilisation and prudent balance sheet management.
Growth in Assets and Improved Asset Quality
Total assets expanded by 23 percent to GH₵52.6 billion, driven by a 19.7 percent increase in deposits to GH₵41.3 billion. Loans also grew significantly by 56.8 percent.
The bank reported improvements in asset quality, with the Non-Performing Loan ratio declining to 10.3 percent from 15.1 percent in 2024.
“The improvement reflects better underwriting discipline, stronger portfolio monitoring and improved loan recoveries,” management explained.
GCB’s strong performance translated into a Return on Equity of 39 percent and earnings per share of GH₵7.78. Its share price also surged from GH₵6.37 in 2024 to GH₵20.11 by the end of 2025.
Despite this growth, the bank noted that its stock remains below book value, suggesting potential for further gains.
Looking ahead, GCB Bank reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its position as a modern, technology-driven institution while continuing to enhance shareholder value in 2026.
READ ALSO: African Currencies Outlook: Cedi and Kwacha Face Pressure, Others Stable
