Ecobank posts $423 million H1 profit despite naira‑denominated earnings decline

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated released its half‑year 2026 results, reporting a profit before tax of $423 million, a 6 % increase over the same period in 2025. In naira terms the profit before tax fell to N584 billion from N620 billion a year earlier, reflecting higher credit‑impairment charges that rose 24.5 % to N328 billion. Net revenue grew 15 % to $1.28 billion, driven by strong performance across corporate, investment, commercial and consumer banking, as well as treasury and trade‑finance activities. The bank issued a $450 million Tier‑2 Sustainable Agriculture and Natural Capital “Nature Bond” on the London Stock Exchange, attracting $1.36 billion in investor demand. CEO Jeremy Awori said the results demonstrate execution of the group’s Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy and highlighted improved deposit mix and lower funding costs. Despite broader macro‑economic headwinds, the bank remains confident in its outlook for the remainder of 2026.