Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (Sterling HoldCo) has sustained its strong growth trajectory, recording a 99 per cent year-on-year increase in profit before tax (PBT) to ₦90.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025, according to its unaudited results.
The performance builds on the Group’s 102 per cent profit growth in 2024, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing financial services groups in the region.
Gross earnings rose 46 per cent to ₦476.5 billion, driven by robust growth in both interest and non-interest income. Interest income climbed 43 per cent to ₦369.6 billion, supported by higher customer lending and improved yields on investment securities.
Non-interest income grew 57.3 per cent, reflecting stronger trading income, higher fees and commissions, and broader contributions from other income streams.
Sterling HoldCo also improved operating efficiency, with its cost-to-income ratio falling to 63 per cent, from 72 per cent in 2024, as revenue growth outpaced operating expenses.
Total assets increased 11 per cent to ₦3.92 trillion, driven mainly by growth in loans and investment securities. Customer deposits grew 18 per cent to ₦2.98 trillion, reflecting higher transaction volumes and increased adoption of the Group’s products across its platforms.
Shareholders’ funds rose 39 per cent to ₦424.0 billion, supported by retained earnings and sustained profitability, lifting return on equity to 22 per cent.
The Group said continued investments in digital infrastructure and operational capabilities across its banking and non-banking businesses played a key role in improving service delivery, lowering costs, and supporting higher customer volumes while maintaining strong risk controls.
Sterling HoldCo also confirmed that its subsidiaries have met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new recapitalisation requirements well ahead of the March 2026 deadline. This followed a series of capital-raising initiatives, including a ₦88 billion public offer to strengthen Sterling Bank and a prior capital injection that enabled The Alternative Bank to operate as a national non-interest bank.
With a stronger capital base, rising deposits, and a diversified earnings mix, Sterling HoldCo said it is well positioned to sustain growth, deploy capital responsibly, and support broader economic activity across its operating segments.
