KFH Receives ISO Certification for Business Continuity Management
Commenting on this achievement, KFH Executive Manager Business Continuity Management, Faisal AlMulla, said thatthis certification demonstrates KFH's sustainability approach to maintaining operations during crises at the highest international standards. He further noted that it reflects the bank's proactive capacities and preparedness to face potential risks, ultimately ensuring reduced downtime and continuous banking services despite unforeseen circumstances.
He further explained that the ISO 22301 certification highlights KFH's efficient operations, its structured approach to managing potential crises, and its strong ability to withstand future challenges. Moreover, he noted that this certification proves the bank has successfully adopted leading practices to ensure stability and continuity across all its operations.
'KFH, a world-class leading banking entity, always seeks to maintain a solid and effective system for business continuity management. KFH also maintains a robust and effective strategy for crisis management, supported by a cutting edge digital-based ecosystem, ensuring a seamless continuation of KFH's services and core operations. This approach has led to KFH being awarded this certification by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO),' AlMulla explained.
He affirmed that ISO 22301 represents a milestone for the efforts of the Bank's different departments in their pursuit of applying the best international standards in risk management and business continuity. He also highlighted KFH's endeavors in achieving a significant leap toward digital transformation in risk management by adopting the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and advanced analytics to enhance risk measurement, monitoring, and early detection capabilities. This was accomplished in accordance with the best global practices, allowing KFH to build effective, developable and proactive measures to face unforeseen challenges and ensure its business continuity considering the geopolitical changes surrounding the region and the world.
'Furthermore, the risk appetite framework for the Group and subsidiaries was comprehensively updated to align with the evolving economic and financial conditions, ensuring alignment with the Group's risk strategy and its overall strategy,' AlMulla remarked.
It serves to note that the ISO 22301 certification determines the Business Continuity Management (BCM) requirements and provides a comprehensive framework that enables organizations to foresee, prepare for and recover from business disruptions effectively. Additionally, an effective BCM system allows organizations to detect potential threats and mitigate its implications ensuring their business continuity.
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Kuwait Times
05-08-2025
- Kuwait Times
KFH holds H1 2025 earnings webcast
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Additionally, Net operating income for the first half of the year reached KD 566.7 million; an increase of 7.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The cost-to-income ratio for H1 2025 improved to 35.3 percent compared to 36.2 percent for the same period last year. Financing receivables at the end of the first half of 2025 reached KD 20.4 billion, an increase of 7.1 percent compared to the end of last year. Total assets at the end of the first half of 2025 amounted to KD 38.5 billion, an increase of 4.9 percent compared to the end of last year. Shareholders' equity increased to reach KD 5.6 billion, and depositors' accounts totaled KD 19.7 billion an increase of 2.7 percent compared to the end of last year. The capital adequacy ratio remained strong at 18.01 percent, well above regulatory requirements, emphasizing the strength of KFH financial position. Al-Shamlan added: 'KFH continues to lead the banking sector and the Kuwaiti market in profitability. We are proud of this achievement since it comes despite the challenging operating environment and geopolitical tension in the region. Our success stems from carefully implemented plans that ensure sustainable profits and maintain the highest financial indicators, while upholding a solid financial position and performance.' KFH is consistently enhancing its operational efficiency, increasing revenues, and optimizing its capabilities in line with global standards. This approach will improve asset quality, enhance risk management, and help the bank rationalize expenses. Al-Shamlan mentioned: 'A key focus area has been enhancing integration across our Group banks. The KFH Group Service Center, which currently provides centralized support for our operations in Turkey and Egypt, has been instrumental in driving operational efficiencies and improving customer service. We plan to expand this model to additional markets in the near future, creating further synergies across our network.' He pointed out that KFH brand unification strategy reached an important milestone with the successful rebranding of Ahli United Bank - Bahrain as Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain. This move complements a series of achievements realized under the new brand identity 'Beyond Horizons' across the Bank's major markets, including Kuwait, the United Kingdom and Egypt. This initiative is part of KFH's expansion strategy as a global leader in Islamic banking. This launch marks the beginning of a new chapter of integration and excellence in banking services. In the domestic market, Al-Shamlan said that KFH continues to play a leading role in financing Kuwait's economic development. Its diverse Sharia-compliant financing solutions support projects across all sectors, from large infrastructure developments to SME growth initiatives. The Bank maintain its position as the preferred partner for major syndicated financing deals, leveraging its expertise in structuring innovative Islamic financing solutions. He emphasized that digital innovation continues to be a key differentiator for KFH. The launch of 'Fahad', Kuwait's first AI-powered virtual banking assistant, represents a significant milestone in KFH digital transformation journey. Additionally, KFH greatly enhanced KFHOnline app, which now offers customers access to over 200 digital banking services, one of the most comprehensive digital offerings in the region. Al-Shamlan concluded: 'Looking ahead, we remain focused on executing our strategy of sustainable growth through synergies, AI Driven digital innovation, and value creation for all our stakeholders, especially our customers. Our strong financial position, diversified business model, and talented team position us well to capitalize on emerging opportunities while navigating potential challenges in the economic environment.' Group Chief Strategy Officer Fahad Al-Mukhaizeem Meanwhile, KFH Group Chief Strategy Officer Fahad Al-Mukhaizeem shared insights into Kuwait's economic landscape and KFH's strategic progress during the first half of the year. He said: 'Global real GDP growth is forecasted to reach 2.8 percent in 2025, down from prior estimates of 3.3 percent, with a modest recovery to 3.0 percent expected in 2026. This slowdown reflects rising trade tensions, policy uncertainty, and geopolitical risks affecting major economies like the US and China. Al-Mukhaizeem added: 'Kuwait's economy remains robust, with real GDP growth projected at 1.9 percent in 2025, rebounding from a 2.8 percent contraction in 2024. This growth is driven by increased oil production and steady non-oil sector expansion, supported by diversification efforts and growing private sector participation. Stable sovereign credit ratings of A+ by (S&P), A1 by (Moody's), and AA- by (Fitch Ratings), underscore confidence in Kuwait's fiscal and institutional strength. He mentioned that Kuwait's project market excelled in H1 2025, with awarded contracts surging 37.5 percent year-on-year to $3.3 billion, driven by increased investments in key sectors such as transport, power, and a revival in upstream oil projects. This momentum is expected to continue in H2 2025, as the government advances strategic projects aligned with Kuwait Vision 2035. Several high-value tenders in oil projects are in progress and anticipated to be awarded. Al-Mukhaizeem pointed out: 'The annual Inflation Rate eased to almost 2.3 percent in June 2025 down from average of 2.9 percent in 2024, reflecting the Central Bank of Kuwait's prudent monetary policy. The Central Bank of Kuwait 'CBK' has maintained the discount rate at 4 percent, unchanged since September 2024, ensuring a balanced approach to economic stability.' He affirmed that Kuwait's banking sector remains strong, underpinned by robust regulation and ample liquidity. KFH delivered exceptional financial results in H1 2025, driven by its diversified business model. With solid capital, innovative digital capabilities, and an expanding regional presence, KFH is well positioned to support Kuwait's long-term economic vision while reinforcing its leadership in Islamic banking. On the innovation and technology front, KFH is dedicated to adopting innovative fintech solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. The Group is strongly committed to fostering synergy across its international branches, prioritizing seamless integration, knowledge sharing, and unified strategies to drive operational excellence and reinforce its global network. KFH continues to expand its global Sharia-compliant banking footprint, capitalizing on its regional presence post-acquisition, and seizing strategic opportunities to enhance its presence in key markets and solidify its status as a leading international Islamic financial institution. 'With the Central Bank of Kuwait issuing a draft regulatory framework for open banking, KFH is well positioned, given its digital track record and market leadership, building on its success of offering innovative services and seamless digital onboarding platforms,' commented Al-Mukhaizeem. From a legislative standpoint, the implementation of the Real Estate Developer Law is expected to boost private sector involvement in housing and infrastructure and help ease the housing backlog, while the proposed Mortgage Law is expected to streamline property processes and expand access to long-term, Sharia-compliant housing finance. These reforms foster a transparent and inclusive development model. Al-Mukhaizeem further noted: 'Kuwait's capital market sustained strong momentum in H1 2025, with the market capitalization of all listed companies in Boursa Kuwait increasing 23.2 percent year-on-year to KD 50.5 billion and traded volume recording 25.2 billion shares in Q2 2025 nearly doubling vs Q2 2024. KFH, the largest listed company, saw its market capitalization grow by nearly 23 percent to KD 14.4 billion, reflecting strong investor confidence in its strategy and performance. Acting Group CFO and GM Investments, Planning and Reporting Yameen Abdulsattar Acting Chief Financial Officer and General Manager Investments, Planning and Reporting at KFH Group, Yameen Abdulsattar said that the Group has achieved Net Profit After Tax attributable to Shareholders for the six months ended June 30, 2025 of KD 342.1 million higher by 0.3 percent compared to H1 2024. He noted that increase in net profit after tax attributable to shareholders is mainly from increase in total operating income and a decrease in net monetary loss, which is partly offset by increase in operating expenses, provision charge and taxes. Net financing income at KD 607.3 million increased by KD 48.5 million, or 8.7 percent compared to same period last year mainly due to increase in financing income by KD 47.3 million and decrease in finance cost and distribution to depositors by KD 1.3 million. Net Operating income at KD 566.7 million increased by KD 41.3 million, or 7.9 percent compared to same period last year. Looking at the total operating income profile, contribution of net financing income to total operating income increased from 67.86 percent in H1 2024 to 69.33 percent in H1 2025 mainly driven by an increase in net financing income. Cost to income ratio for H1 2025 improved, representing 35.30 percent compared to 36.19 percent for H1 2024. 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Kuwait Times
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- Kuwait Times
KFH launches salary transfer campaign
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Kuwait Times
29-07-2025
- Kuwait Times
KFH reports KD 342.1m in net profit for bank's shareholders for H1 2025
Net operating income grew 7.9% * Net financing income grew 8.7% * Total assets increased to KD 38.5bn KUWAIT: Chairman of Kuwait Finance House (KFH) Hamad Abdulmohsen Al-Marzouq announced that KFH achieved a net profit of KD 342.1 million for the first half of 2025 for the bank's shareholders. Earnings per share for the first half of 2025 reached 19.23 fils. Net financing income for the first half of the year reached KD 607.3 million; an increase of 8.7 percent compared to the same period last year. Total operating income for the first half of 2025 increased, supported by the increase in all core activities to reach KD 876 million; an increase of 6.4 percent compared to the same period last year. This growth is particularly notable given that the comparative income for 2024 included profits of KD 70.1 million from the sale of KFH-Bahrain during Q2 2024. Net operating income for the first half of the year reached KD 566.7 million; an increase of 7.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The cost-to-income ratio for H1-25 improved to 35.3 percent compared to 36.2 percent for the same period last year. Financing receivables at the end of the first half of 2025 reached KD 20.4 billion, an increase of 7.1 percent compared to the end of last year. Total assets at the end of the first half of 2025 amounted to KD 38.5 billion, an increase of 4.9 percent compared to the end of last year. Shareholders' equity for the same period amounted to about KD 5.6 billion, an increase of 0.8 percent compared to the end of last year. Depositors' accounts for the first half of 2025 amounted to KD 19.7 billion, an increase of 2.7 percent compared to the end of last year. In addition, the capital adequacy ratio reached 18.01 percent which is above the limit required by regulators. This ratio confirms the solid capital base of KFH. The Board of Directors has agreed to distribute a semi-annual cash dividend of 10 fils per share. Outstanding performance In a press release, Al-Marzouq said that KFH continues to lead the banking sector and the Kuwaiti market in profitability. This remarkable achievement comes despite the challenging operating environment and geopolitical shifts in the region, which have brought uncertainty to the economic landscape. He emphasized that KFH's success stems from precisely implemented plans that ensure sustainable profits and maintain KFH's solid financial position and robust performance. Al-Marzouq also highlighted the strength of KFH's financial statements for the first half of this year, which showcase a strong capital base, good liquidity ratios, and exceptional operational performance. These factors have collectively driven sustainable growth across all key financial indicators. Operational efficiency Al-Marzouq emphasized that KFH continues to boost its operational efficiency, increase revenues, and optimally use its capabilities in line with global standards. This approach will improve asset quality, enhance risk management, and help the bank rationalize expenses, especially as it navigates the current global financial landscape and the competitive financial services industry. Coordination and integration He added that KFH is working to achieve great ambitions by maximizing the effectiveness of the Group's banks and fostering seamless coordination and integration among. This approach guarantees increased revenues and improved performance, while also leveraging the unique potential and advantages of each market. New chapter Al-Mazrouq said that KFH successfully launched the new visual identity for Ahli United Bank - Bahrain, rebranding it as Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain. This move complements a series of achievements realized under the new brand slogan, 'Beyond Horizons'. He explained that this series began in Kuwait, subsequently extending to the United Kingdom and the Arab Republic of Egypt. 'This initiative is part of KFH's strategy for expansion and global leadership as an Islamic banking group.' He emphasized that the new brand launch reflects a shift in vision and concept, marking the beginning of a new chapter of integration and excellence in banking services. Financing and development Al-Marzouq highlighted KFH's continued dedication and ability to fund large-scale projects in all sectors, including production, service, commercial and development. By offering a diverse range of financing services and solutions, KFH actively supports the government's comprehensive development plans. He highlighted the bank's strengths, which position it as one of the most trusted and preferred institutions for corporate financing. KFH also enjoys a substantial market share in financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within Kuwait's banking sector. Furthermore, the bank is keen to fund numerous large-scale projects, utilizing flexible and efficient Sharia-compliant financing structures. This has established KFH as the preferred partner and lead arranger for many major joint financing deals. Training and promotion Al-Marzouq said that KFH is steadfast in its commitment to nurturing national talent and developing future leaders. Through ongoing training and development programs, partnered with local institutions, universities, and international centers, the bank aims for peak operational efficiency and productivity. This dedication recently saw several national employees advance to senior leadership roles across various departments. CSR & sustainability Al-Marzouq noted that KFH's social impact grew significantly last year, thanks to its involvement in many key strategic social initiatives. These efforts highlight the crucial role KFH plays in society, alongside its leading position in the economic, developmental and banking sectors. He highlighted how KFH has created a pioneering and role model for embedding sustainability principles across its entire group. 'KFH has seen remarkable success in green financing and implementing a comprehensive sustainability strategy that's central to its mission and vision. The bank is further strengthening its commitment by adopting integrated, comprehensive, and balanced practices in the key areas of sustainability: environmental, social and governance (ESG).' Al-Marzouq explained that KFH was the first entity to start publishing impact measurement reports, and it annually releases both a Sustainability Report and a Carbon Footprint Report. KFH has been awarded an 'A' rating by MSCI. Additionally, KFH has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for its exemplary performance in environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. Khaled Yousef Al-Shamlan KFH Group CEO Sound financial indicators Meanwhile, KFH Group CEO Khaled Yousef Al-Shamlan said that the bank's H1 2025 profits confirms its robust operational performance and leading position in the Kuwaiti banking sector. He noted that the financial performance for this period reflects prudent strategies and effective policies that consistently yield sustainable profits, solid financial position, asset quality, and good indicators for operating income, cost to income ratios as well as liquidity ratios and capital adequacy. Global leadership Al-Shamlan said that 'KFH ranked first as the best-performing bank in Kuwait, according to The Banker magazine's 2025 ranking of the top 1,000 global banks. KFH has maintained its position as Kuwait's largest listed company, in Forbes' Global 2000 list for the largest public companies in the world, reinforcing its standing using four metrics, revenues, profits, assets and market value.' He pointed out that KFH has won numerous international awards, including 'The Middle East's Best Islamic Bank' and 'Kuwait's Best Bank' from Euromoney. KFH was also named 'Best Bank for Financial Institutions in the Middle East for 2025' by Global Finance, in recognition of its excellence and distinction in banking. Growing market share Al-Shamlan emphasized KFH's ongoing drive to boost market share by offering competitive products, services, and cutting-edge financing solutions, such as Financing Against Gold Account Collateral. He also highlighted the continuous effort to strengthen KFH's presence in international markets, improve coordination among the Group's banks, and enhance customer service through the KFH Group Service Center. Currently, this center supports KFH-Turkey and KFH-Egypt, with plans to extend its services to other Group banks in the coming period. Al-Shamlan attributed the bank's sustained leadership to its vast experience and large customer base, which collectively reinforce its competitive edge and brand strength. Digitalization and innovation Al-Shamlan also noted that KFH continues to lead digital innovation in banking, offering diverse digital services and solutions to elevate customer experience. He added that KFH launched (Fahad), Kuwait's first virtual assistant employee powered by artificial intelligence. This coincides with a comprehensive update and redesign of the KFHOnline app, now offering over 200 digital banking services to meet high customer demand. KFH also introduced the KFH Virtual Rewards Prepaid Card as a unique payment experience, alongside updated customer software. Additionally, a new, secure, and easy payment service for businesses was rolled out, transforming mobile phones into point-of-sale devices for accepting payments via debit cards and digital wallets.
