Nicaragua reports strong economic growth and record bank deposits

Nicaragua's financial and economic indicators showed significant growth through the first half of 2026. According to the Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN), public deposits reached a record high of over 300 billion córdobas by the end of July, marking a 14.4% year-on-year increase.

The gross credit portfolio also expanded, reaching 248.3 billion córdobas, an 11.7% increase compared to the previous year. The BCN reported healthy credit quality, with 95.8% of the portfolio current and a non-performing loan index of 1.4%.

On a broader scale, the country recorded a 4.1% economic growth rate during the first semester of the year. BCN President Ovidio Reyes noted that despite international challenges such as rising oil prices, the economy remains strengthened by domestic savings. Key economic drivers included exports totaling approximately 5.132 billion dollars—led by peanuts and lobster—and foreign investment reaching 960 million dollars. Additionally, the construction sector saw a 30.4% growth in the second quarter.