Standard Chartered Bank posts Rs37.1bn profit before tax

Standard Chartered Bank (Pakistan) Limited reported a strong profit before tax of PKR 37.1 billion for the nine-month period ending on 30 September 2026, a decrease from PKR 46.1 billion in the previous period. Revenue for the same period stood at PKR 53.6 billion, a 15% decline compared to the previous year, mainly due to reduced interest rates.

Total expenses fell by 1%, reflecting effective cost control despite investments in people and infrastructure. The bank maintained a low cost-to-income ratio of 33%, one of the lowest in the industry. The prudent approach to risk and successful recoveries of bad debts resulted in a net ECL release of PKR 1.2 billion during the period.

The bank's total deposits increased to PKR 739 billion, a 14% rise from the beginning of the year, with current accounts making up 58% of the deposit base. Net advances rose by PKR 31.5 billion or 15% as corporate advances and mortgages continued to grow. Standard Chartered Bank continued to be a leader in the mortgage market, supporting clients' aspirations for home ownership through innovative financing solutions.

The bank's strategic partnership with the Government of Pakistan facilitated the country's successful return to international capital markets through USD 3,750 million Eurobond and USD 250 million Panda Bond issuances. With a robust return on equity of 22.1% and a capital adequacy ratio of 19.1%, Standard Chartered Bank is well-positioned for future growth.

Adil Salahuddin, CEO & Head of Coverage, emphasized the bank's resilience, strong client relationships, and expanding balance sheet. Salahuddin expressed optimism about Pakistan's economic outlook, highlighting significant opportunities for supporting local and international businesses in sustainable growth and connecting to wider markets.