Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”) has announced an impressive 157% year-on-year growth in profit after tax (PAT) for the half-year ended June 30, 2025, according to its unaudited financial results. The Group’s PAT soared to ₦41.78 billion, up from ₦16.26 billion in the corresponding period of 2024—an outcome driven by robust earnings, strategic investments, and operational efficiency.
Earnings per share climbed to 89 Kobo from 56 Kobo, reinforcing Sterling HoldCo’s ability to deliver shareholder value. Gross earnings rose by 39.7% to ₦212.61 billion from ₦152.20 billion in H1 2024, while interest income jumped 38.3% to ₦167.16 billion. Non-interest income also advanced by 45% to ₦45.45 billion, underscoring the Group’s ongoing diversification across income streams.
The cost-to-income ratio improved significantly to 64.5% from 75.7%, reflecting the effectiveness of its cost optimisation strategy. Total assets expanded by 15.3% to ₦4.08 trillion from ₦3.54 trillion as of December 2024, while shareholders’ funds rose by 22.9%, buoyed by recent recapitalisation and strong retained earnings.
Recapitalisation and Public Offer
Sterling HoldCo recently completed a private placement and rights issue, raising approximately ₦100 billion. The proceeds were used to fully recapitalise Alternative Bank and enhance the capital base of Sterling Bank—its core banking subsidiary. As part of its ₦400 million capital raising programme approved at the June 30, 2025 Annual General Meeting, the Group now plans to launch a public offer in the coming weeks.
This public phase is expected to bridge the ₦53 billion capital gap at Sterling Bank, reinforcing the institution’s ability to scale operations and drive growth across key economic sectors.
CEO Statement
Yemi Odubiyi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc, said:
Our strong half-year performance is a testament to strategic clarity, disciplined execution, and our unwavering commitment to stakeholder value. It reflects not only solid growth in core income but also our adaptability in a complex economic environment.
As we expand our income base and improve efficiency, we are focused on sustainable growth and positive social impact. The next phase of our capital programme opens up significant opportunities to support Nigeria’s priority sectors and empower our communities.
Strategic Outlook
Sterling HoldCo continues to focus on long-term growth through strategic investments in renewable energy, healthcare, digital innovation, and community development—sectors central to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
With a resilient business model and a proactive approach to risk and capital management, the Group remains committed to delivering value to its customers, investors, and society.
