NBK-Egypt reports EGP 4.1 billion net profit in H1 2025, a y-o-y growth of 30%
Net Operating Income stood at EGP 7.7 billion in H1 2025, recording a substantial increase of 28 percent from EGP 6.1 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024. In the meantime, Net Interest Income grew by 31 percent, reaching EGP 6.7 billion compared to EGP 5.2 billion in H1 2024. Meanwhile, Net Operating Income (excluding interests) increased to EGP 199 million in H1 2025, compared to EGP 147 million in H1 2024, up by 35 percent, while Cost to Net Operating Income grew by1 percent in H1 2024 to 24 percent in H1 2025.
Total assets reached EGP 206 billion by the end of H1 2025, up by 5 percent compared to EGP 196 billion by the end of 2024. Furthermore, total loans and credit facilities expanded to EGP 115 billion in H1 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 10 percent compared to EGP 104 billion recorded at the end of 2024. Additionally, customer deposits increased to EGP 166 billion by the end of 1H2025, up from EGP 160 billion at the end of 2024, representing a growth rate of 4 percent.
The ratio of operating income to total net income increased to 87 percent as of H1 2025, compared to 85 percent in the corresponding period of 2024. Moreover, the Return on Average Assets (ROAA) improved to 4 percent in 1H2025, while the Return on Average Equity (ROAE) stood at 35 percent.
Commenting on the financial results announced by NBK-Egypt, Shaikha Al-Bahar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, National Bank of Kuwait, and Chairman of NBK-Egypt, said: 'The strong earnings growth achieved by NBK–Egypt in the first half of 2025 highlights the bank's solid financial standing and the enduring strength of its business model, which continues to generate sustainable profitability despite prevailing operational challenges. This performance stands as a testament to the Group's long-term strategic vision since its entry into the Egyptian market in 2007, reaffirming its confidence in the significant growth potential and strategic importance of one of the region's largest and most dynamic banking landscapes.'
Al-Bahar affirmed that Egypt remains one of the Group's most prominent strategic markets, playing a role in driving growth, and is consistently regarded as its second home market. As the largest Kuwaiti investment in Egypt, NBK has established a clear and growing footprint within the Egyptian banking sector. The Bank ranks among the fastest-growing institutions in the market, a position reinforced by its robust financial indicators, which underscore its solid trajectory toward further expansion and enhanced market share. Furthermore, Al-Bahar emphasized that the Group views the Egyptian market as a long-term strategic investment and remains committed to expanding its presence. She noted that NBK's operations in Egypt continue to rank among the most profitable within the Group, consistently delivering high returns on equity and assets.
Al-Bahar explained that the easing of geopolitical tensions in the region would significantly support the Egyptian economy and unlock greater investment opportunities. She also noted that the country's future outlook, continues to gain momentum from the ongoing reform efforts and the exceptional measures undertaken by the Egyptian government and the Central Bank of Egypt.
Meanwhile, Vice Chairman, CEO, and Managing Director of National Bank of Kuwait-Egypt, Yasser El-Tayeb, said: 'The Bank's solid financial indicators in the first half of the year underscore its ability to sustain growth and deliver strong business results, despite the exceptional challenges facing the business environment on the local and global fronts due to ongoing political instability and its economic ramifications.'
El-Tayeb emphasized that NBK–Egypt's growth remains well-balanced across all business lines, supported by efficiency and risk metrics aligned with both sustainable expansion and long-term resilience. He attributed this performance to the Bank's prudent policies and sound business model, which enable it to meet customer needs with agility and confidence. He added that the majority of NBK–Egypt's income is generated from credit operations, primarily through the corporate banking segment, while the retail banking sector has also witnessed notable growth in recent years.
The Bank's credit portfolio spans a broad spectrum of clients, ranging from large corporations to medium and small enterprises, while its retail portfolio serves diverse customer segments. This breadth underscores the strength and diversification of NBK–Egypt's income sources. El-Tayeb emphasized the bank's commitment to further strengthening its position in the retail banking sector by offering advanced services and products tailored to diverse customer segments, aiming to establish itself as a comprehensive bank that fulfills all their financial needs.
Furthermore, he also emphasized NBKE's firm belief in the pivotal role of technology and digital channels in shaping the future of the banking sector. Recognizing their importance in strengthening competitive advantage, NBK–Egypt has made substantial investments to upgrade its core banking systems and significantly expand its suite of digital services. These efforts are aimed at delivering a seamless and distinctive banking experience, enabling customers to carry out their transactions anytime, anywhere. In parallel, the Bank is committed to encouraging broader adoption of electronic payment methods, in alignment with the strategic direction of the Egyptian government and the Central Bank of Egypt.
El-Tayeb emphasized that NBK–Egypt is committed to supporting the global shift toward sustainable finance and the transition to a green economy. The Bank actively backs environmentally responsible projects that promote sustainability and greater reliance on renewable energy sources. It also continues to explore viable solutions to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Finally, El-Tayeb noted that sustainable finance has become one of the most critical instruments for promoting and preserving long-term financial stability.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Kuwait Times
5 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Sheikh Saud elected KIA MD
Sheikh Saud Salem Al-Sabah KUWAIT: The new board of directors of Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) held its first meeting on Tuesday and unanimously elected new member Sheikh Saud Salem Al-Sabah as the new managing director for the country's agency that runs hundreds of billions of surpluses. Sheikh Saud was among five new members appointed to the board of directors by an Amiri decree on Monday. The meeting was chaired by KIA chairman, Minister of Electricity and Water and acting minister of finance Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem. Mukhaizeem said in a statement that the KIA board of directors will continue its policy to develop the Authority, strengthen governance and manage state funds at a high degree of competence. This, he added, will boost KIA's strategic role in supporting the national economy and enhance Kuwait's position at the map of global investments. Mukhaizeem was appointed acting finance minister following the resignation of Noura Al-Fassam as finance minister after one year of office. No reason was given for the resignation of Fassam, an experienced economist and banker. Kuwait does not officially announce the size of its assets run by KIA, but unofficial reports put the investments at around $1 trillion. In the meantime, a three-day donation campaign to raise funds for the Gaza relief collected over KD 5 million on its third and final day, the ministry of social affairs said on Tuesday.

Kuwait Times
11 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
KFH holds H1 2025 earnings webcast
KUWAIT: Kuwait Finance House (KFH) held the earnings webcast for highlighting the Group's financial performance and results during H1 2025. The webcast was attended by KFH Group Chief Executive Officer, Khaled Al-Shamlan, Group Chief Strategy Officer, Eng Fahad Al-Mukhaizeem, and Acting Group Chief Financial Officer and General Manager Investments, Planning and Reporting, Yameen Abdulsattar. Group CEO Khaled Al-Shamlan KFH Group Chief Executive Officer Khaled Al-Shamlan commenced the meeting by shedding light on the Bank's financial performance for H1-2025. He said that KFH has reported a net profit to the shareholders of KD 342.1 million for H1 2025. Earnings per share reached 19.23 fils for H1 2025. Net financing income for H1 2025 reached KD 607.3 million, reflecting a growth of 8.7 percent compared to the same period last year. Total operating income also saw a significant rise, reaching KD 876 million, with an increase of 6.4 percent compared to H1 2024. 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. Looking at provisions and impairments, Group total impairment charge increased by KD 7.5 million compared to H1 2024. KFH's cautious approach towards provisioning has contributed to financing provision balance exceeding ECL required as per CBK IFRS 9 by KD 494 million as of June 30, 2025. On the financial position front, Abdulsattar added that Total Assets at KD 38.5 billion increased by KD 1.8 billion, or 4.9 percent in June 2025 compared to December 2024. Net financing receivables at KD 20.4 billion increased by KD 1.4 billion, or 7.1 percent compared to December 2024, mainly on account of increase in corporate portfolio. Deposits for H1 2025 at KD 19.7 billion have increased by KD 510 million, or 2.7 percent compared to December 2024, mainly due to increase in CASA deposits. Looking at the funding mix, contribution of customer deposits to total funding as of June 30, 2025 is 64.6 percent followed by due to banks and FI at 30.5 percent. These results reflected growth across all key financial indicators during the period.

Kuwait Times
11 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait's pursuit of fair global taxation
Kuwait's recent implementation of the BEPS Pillar Two framework, through Law 157/2024 and its executive regulations, has introduced a new paradigm for the taxation of large multinational enterprises (MNEs). We have explored the foundational elements: understanding 'GloBE Income or Loss' as the standardized profit base and 'Adjusted Covered Taxes' as the relevant tax burden. Now, we arrive at the pivotal moment where these two concepts converge to determine if an MNE owes additional tax - the calculation of the Effective Tax Rate (ETR) and, if needed, the top-up tax. This article will demystify these crucial computations, showing how the 15 percent global minimum tax is enforced and how Kuwait strategically ensures that any top-up tax arising from economic activities within its borders directly benefits the nation through its Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (QDMTT). Step 1: The jurisdictional blending approach - A collective view Unlike traditional tax systems that often look at individual companies, Pillar Two takes a jurisdictional blending approach. This means that for each country where an MNE group operates, e.g., Kuwait, the GloBE income or loss and the adjusted covered taxes of all constituent entities of that MNE group located in that specific jurisdiction are aggregated. Why aggregate? Because the goal is to determine if the MNE's overall operations in a given country are effectively taxed below 15 percent. Aggregating allows for an average to be taken across all the group's entities in that location, preventing MNEs from manipulating the effective rate by having some high-taxed and some low-taxed entities in the same country. So, for Kuwait, an MNE group will first sum up the GloBE Income of all its entities based here, and then sum up their Adjusted Covered Taxes. Step 2: The core formula - Calculating the Effective Tax Rate (ETR) Once we have the aggregated GloBE income and adjusted covered taxes for a particular jurisdiction, the calculation of the Effective Tax Rate (ETR) is straightforward: Jurisdictional ETR = aggregated adjusted covered taxes for the jurisdiction aggregated GloBE income for the jurisdiction. For example, if an MNE's constituent entities in Kuwait have an aggregated GloBE income of KD 100 million and have paid KD 10 million in adjusted covered taxes, their jurisdictional ETR would be: KD 10 million = 10 percent KD 100 million. This 10 percent ETR is now compared against the 15 percent global minimum tax rate. But, what if the ETR is a loss or zero GloBE income? Special rules apply if the aggregated GloBE income for a jurisdiction is a loss or zero. In such cases, if the adjusted covered taxes are positive, the ETR calculation would result in an undefined or negative rate. The GloBE rules generally treat the ETR as being below 15 percent in such scenarios, which means a top-up tax could still be triggered, but specific computations would apply to ensure fairness. The key is that the absence of taxable profit does not automatically mean immunity from the Pillar Two rules if taxes have been significantly reduced. Step 3: Determining the top-up tax percentage - The shortfall If the calculated jurisdictional ETR is less than 15 percent, then a 'top-up tax percentage' is determined. This simply represents the difference between the 15 percent minimum rate and the MNE's actual ETR in that jurisdiction. Top-up tax percentage = 15 percent (minimum rate). Jurisdictional ETR now, using our example where the ETR for Kuwait was 10 percent: Top-up tax percentage = 15 percent? 10 percent = 5 percent This 5 percent is the additional rate of tax that needs to be levied to bring the overall effective tax rate up to the 15 percent minimum. Step 4: Calculating 'excess profit' with the substance-based income exclusion (SBIE) Before applying the top-up tax percentage, the GloBE rules introduce a crucial element, that is the substance-based income exclusion (SBIE). This is a vital policy carve-out designed to ensure that Pillar Two taxes only 'excess profits' - those profits that are not directly attributable to real economic activities, like having employees or physical assets, in a jurisdiction. It aims to reward MNEs for genuine investment and discourage purely artificial profit shifting. The SBIE is calculated as a fixed return, i.e. a percentage, on the MNE's: Eligible payroll costs The payroll expenses of eligible employees performing substantive activities in the jurisdiction. Eligible tangible assets: The carrying value of tangible assets, like property, plant, and equipment, located in the jurisdiction and used in the MNE's business. For a transitional period, starting at 9.6 percent for payroll and 7.6 percent for tangible assets, phasing down to 5 percent over ten years, a portion of income derived from these substantive activities is excluded from the profits subject to top-up tax. SBIE = (payroll carve-out percent x eligible payroll costs) + (tangible assets carve-out percent x eligible tangible assets) The 'excess profit' for a jurisdiction is then calculated as: excess profit = aggregated GloBE income. SBIE If the GloBE income is less than or equal to the SBIE, then the excess profit is considered zero, and no top-up tax would be due even if the ETR is below 15 percent. This is a crucial simplification for MNEs with substantial physical presence and employees. Step 5: Computing the gross top-up tax Now, the top-up tax percentage is applied to the excess profit to arrive at the gross top-up tax for the jurisdiction: Gross top-up tax = top-up tax percentage x excess profit. Let's continue our example: If the Aggregated GloBE income was KD 100 million, and assuming a SBIE of KD 20 million, then: excess profit = KD 100 million. KD 20 million = KD 80 million and the gross top-up tax would be: Gross top-up tax = 5 percent x KD 80 million = KD 4 million. This KD 4 million is the total top-up tax that needs to be collected to bring the MNE's effective tax rate in Kuwait up to 15 percent. Step 6: Reducing the top-up tax with Kuwait's QDMTT This is where Kuwait's strategic decision to implement a qualified domestic minimum top-up tax (QDMTT) becomes immensely beneficial. As discussed, the QDMTT ensures that any top-up tax calculated for MNE entities located in Kuwait is paid directly to the Kuwaiti tax authorities. The final top-up tax amount that would be allocated to other jurisdictions, under the IIR or UTPR, is reduced by the amount of QDMTT paid in Kuwait. Allocable top-up tax (to other jurisdictions) = gross top-up tax? QDMTT paid in Kuwait If Kuwait collects the full KD 4 million under its QDMTT, then there would be no remaining top-up tax for other countries to collect from this MNE's Kuwaiti operations. This guarantees that the revenue stays within our national borders. Importance for MNEs in Kuwait: For multinational enterprises operating in Kuwait, understanding these computations is not merely an academic exercise. It directly impacts their future tax liabilities and compliance requirements. They will need: Robust data systems: To accurately track and report GloBE income and adjusted covered taxes for all their Kuwaiti entities. Scenario planning: To model the potential impact of Pillar Two on their effective tax rates and overall tax burden in Kuwait. Expert guidance: To navigate the complexities of these calculations and ensure compliance with Law 157/2024 and its executive regulations. A fairer share for Kuwait The calculation of the effective tax rate and the resulting top-up tax is the operational core of Pillar Two. By establishing a clear, step-by-step process, the GloBE Rules ensure transparency and consistency in determining if an MNE is paying its fair share. For Kuwait, the meticulous design of its QDMTT means that our nation is not just a participant in this global tax reform, but an active beneficiary. By capturing the top-up tax arising from economic activity within its jurisdiction, Kuwait secures vital revenue, fosters a more equitable business environment, and reinforces its commitment to modern, fair international taxation. This intricate dance of numbers ultimately leads to a stronger, more prosperous future for all in Kuwait. NOTE: Hassan M Abdulrahim is a Senior Instructor (Business) at Canadian College Kuwait and CEO & Co-founder of Visionary Consulting Company