Standard Bank Group Reports Strong Earnings Growth

Standard Bank Group ( (SBGOF) ) has released its Q2 earnings. Here is a breakdown of the information Standard Bank Group presented to its investors.

Standard Bank Group, a leading financial services provider with a strong presence in Africa and international offshore hubs, offers comprehensive banking, insurance, and asset management solutions. In its latest earnings report for the first half of 2025, Standard Bank Group reported a robust financial performance with headline earnings growing by 8% to R23.8 billion and a return on equity of 19.1%. The group also declared an interim dividend of 817 cents per share, marking a 10% increase from the previous period.

Key highlights from the report include a 2% growth in active clients, driven by digital advancements and strategic client acquisition in both South Africa and Africa Regions. The group’s banking division saw a 9% increase in earnings, supported by strong non-interest revenue growth and controlled operating expenses. The Insurance & Asset Management unit also performed well, with an 11% rise in headline earnings and a significant improvement in return on equity to 19.7%.

The group’s common equity tier 1 ratio stood strong at 13.2%, and total deposits increased by 11% to R2.3 trillion, reflecting successful client retention and acquisition strategies. Additionally, the group’s commitment to sustainable finance is evident with a revised target of mobilizing R450 billion by 2028, having already mobilized R230 billion since 2022.

Looking ahead, Standard Bank Group remains optimistic about its growth prospects, despite global economic uncertainties. The management reaffirms its targets for 2025, including a mid-to-high single-digit growth in banking revenue and maintaining a return on equity within the 17% to 20% range. The group is well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities across Africa while navigating potential challenges in the global economic landscape.