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Banking sector growth and digitalization in emerging markets

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2026-08-19 00:27 UTC → 2026-08-19 17:41 UTC · added removed

Financial institutions in Kenya, Ghana, and Pakistan have reported continue to report strong growth and profitability. In Kenya, Absa Bank Kenya reported a half-year profit after tax of KSh 10.5 billion, though Absa Group’s attempt to increase its stake in billion for the Kenyan unit to 85 percent via period ending June 30, 2026, supported by an 8% growth in customer assets and a tender offer was unsuccessful, resulting 20% increase in an ownership level of approximately 71.99 percent. income from its subsidiaries. In Ghana, the 2026 PwC Banking Survey noted highlighted a robust sector where total industry deposits rose 25 percent 25% to GH¢334.3 billion in 2025, and profit before tax increased nearly 40 percent 40% to GH¢23 billion. billion, driven by higher investment and trading income. GCB Bank, Ecobank Ghana, and Stanbic Bank maintain the largest market shares. Additionally, the Nkrankwanta Area Community Bank reported a 133% increase in profit after tax to GH¢3.46 million in 2025. In Pakistan, ABHI Bank reported record performance with a profit after tax of PKR 1.502 billion for the first half of 2026, surpassing its total 2025 profit. The sector is also seeing a shift toward digital and self-service capabilities. capabilities, such as ABHI Microfinance Bank launched a Bank’s ‘DIY Banking’ initiative to digitize its network through ATMs, cash deposit machines, and kiosks. Additionally, Bank Alfalah opened Pakistan’s first Alfalah’s Digital Islamic Consumer Finance Centre in Karachi, which integrates digital consumer financing Karachi. Broader regional developments include a 2% increase in profit after tax for Namibia’s Letshego Holdings to N$253.5 million in the first half of 2026. Furthermore, Standard Bank Group and Shariah-compliant digital applications. UnionPay International have expanded e-commerce payment acceptance across nine African markets, including Botswana, Ghana, and Kenya, to facilitate cross-border trade.

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  1. 2026-08-19 17:41 UTC Banking sector growth and digitalization in emerging markets
  2. 2026-08-19 00:27 UTC Banking sector growth and digitalization in emerging markets

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