National Bank of Kenya (NBK) recorded KShs 1.03 billion in profit after tax for the first quarter ending March 31, 2026, representing a 275% growth compared to KShs 275.7 million recorded during a similar period last year, driven by net interest income and a substantial reduction in credit impairment charges.
The Net interest income increased to KShs 2.84 billion from KShs 2.4 billion in Q1 2025, supported by disciplined asset pricing and improved funding efficiency. Non-interest income remained resilient at KShs 664.3 million, reflecting consistent performance in fees and commissions despite a competitive operating environment.
Operating expenses were maintained at KShs 2.1 billion, supported by ongoing cost management and operational efficiency initiatives. Meanwhile, loan loss provisions declined significantly by 92% to KShs 50 million, down from KShs 618 million in the prior year. This was driven by a year-on-year reduction in non-performing loans, improved recoveries, and enhanced credit quality.
The Bank’s balance sheet remained strong, with total assets increasing to KShs 145.3 billion from KShs 141.1 billion in December 2025. Customer deposits stood at KShs 106.7 billion, underscoring continued customer confidence and providing a stable funding base for growth.
Net loans and advances increased to KShs 57.0 billion from KShs 51.0 billion in December 2025, reflecting continued support for customers and businesses across key sectors.
Commentary: National Bank of Kenya Managing Director, George Odhiambo
“We have started off the year on a strong footing, driven by customer confidence, cost management and operations efficiency initiatives. We are reinventing ourselves in the market to come out stronger, and I am confident that by the end of the year, we will be at a higher level. Our focus is to continue serving our customers, exploring more business opportunities and expanding our product and service offering to better serve the market.”
Outlook
NBK remains focused on delivering sustainable growth while strengthening its digital capabilities and maintaining disciplined risk management. The Bank is well-positioned to build on its strong start to the year by leveraging improved asset quality, operational efficiency gains, and integration processes within Access Bank PLC.
