Latest news with #IsamAl-Sager
Kuwait Times
24-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK's strong operational performance continues with robust profits: Al-Sager
Vice Chairman and Group CEO speaks on the sidelines of H1 2025 analysts' conference call KUWAIT: Isam Al-Sager, Vice Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), stated that the Bank reported a net profit of KD 315.3 million for the first half of 2025, marking a 7.8 percent increase from KD 292.4 million in the corresponding period of 2024. Speaking on the sidelines of the analysts' conference call for the first-half 2025 results, Al-Sager highlighted that profit before tax surged by 17.0 percent year-on-year, reaching KD 401.5 million in the first six months of the year. He explained that the new tax regime weighed on profitability, with the effective tax rate rising to 16.0 percent in the first half of 2025, up from 9.2 percent in the first half of 2024. Al-Sager added that the Bank's pre-tax profit was further supported by the release of provisions for credit and impairment losses amounting to KD 10 million, compared to a charge of KD 43 million in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024. 'Our returns remained robust, with Return on Average Assets reaching (ROAA) 1.52 percent and Return on Average Equity (ROAE) standing at 15.1 percent for the period', Al-Sager said. He explained that the Bank is confident in its ability to adapt and maintain its leadership in the local market, highlighting its readiness to navigate economic headwinds and emerge even stronger, supported by its resilience, continued investment in technology and innovation, and steadfast commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Isam Al-Sager, Vice Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer Dividend distribution policy Regarding the dividend distribution policy, Al-Sager stated that NBK's approach remains unchanged, maintaining a sustainable framework that strikes a balance between delivering attractive shareholder returns and prudently managing capital ratios. He added that the Bank continues to prioritize effective capital planning to ensure capital levels align with its future growth ambitions, an approach it has consistently upheld and will continue to follow going forward. Al-Sager stressed that the Bank remains committed to its approved dividend policy, noting that in light of the strong growth in its loan portfolio both locally and internationally, the Bank has opted to retain interim profits until year-end, with a focus on year-end final dividend distribution. This approach provides greater flexibility to capitalize on growth opportunities as they emerge throughout the year, in alignment with the Bank's strategic priorities. He pointed out that NBK's regional and international presence plays a vital role in mitigating risks, sustaining stable returns, and enhancing operational efficiency. Furthermore, he added that the Bank remains focused on leveraging cross-selling opportunities across its diverse geographical footprint. At the same time, its wealth management arm will continue to capitalize on deep expertise to deliver a comprehensive suite of portfolio management, advisory services, and investment solutions. Meanwhile, the Bank's Islamic banking services will further strengthen their local footprint while diversifying sources of profitability. Projects market momentum Al-Sager emphasized that following a strong year of project market activity in 2024, particularly in the second half of the year, the pace of activity moderated slightly during the first half of 2025. He noted that this moderation largely reflects a normalization from the elevated levels seen last year. Nonetheless, the outlook remains encouraging, supported by a pipeline of ongoing projects valued at KD 10 billion, signaling the government's continued commitment to advancing its development and reform agenda. Al-Sager affirmed the Bank's ongoing commitment to sustainability and the advancement of its sustainable finance agenda, highlighting the recent publication of its first Green Bond Allocation and Impact Report, as well as its inaugural TCFD Report. These disclosures underscore NBK's efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in its ESG and sustainable finance strategy. They also reflect the Bank's significant progress in integrating climate considerations across its operations, with a strong emphasis on portfolio diversification and climate risk management. Meanwhile, Sujit Ronghe, Group Chief Financial Officer at NBK, stated that the Group continues to demonstrate strong operational momentum, driven by robust growth in business volumes, most notably across the loan and investment portfolios. He added that the Group continues to benefit from the strength of its loan portfolio, which demonstrates high asset quality and a well-considered diversification of growth sources. Ronghe explained that key business segments made strong contributions to net profit in the first half of 2025, highlighting their effectiveness as core pillars of the Group's diversification strategy and their role in reinforcing profit resilience. He stressed that NBK Group continues to leverage its unique competitive advantages among Kuwaiti banks, particularly its broad geographic footprint and its ability to operate across both conventional and Islamic banking. Amid growing concerns over the impact of the ongoing tariff war and its implications for the global business landscape, Ronghe explained that NBK remains well-positioned to navigate this volatile environment, a testament to the strength and resilience of its diversified business model. Regarding the catalysts for loan growth during the first half of 2025, Ronghe stated that corporate credit was the primary driver, emphasizing that demand was not concentrated in any single geographic area. Instead, it was well distributed across NBK's network, including the GCC region, international markets, and Boubyan Bank.
Kuwait Times
21-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK awarded Best Bank in Kuwait for 2025 & Al-Sager recognized as MENA Sustainability Leader of the Year
MEED magazine's MENA Banking Excellence Awards Three prestigious awards reinforce NBK Group's leadership in innovative banking solutions and its excellence in sustainability and asset management KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has received three prestigious accolades from MEED magazine as part of MENA Banking Excellence Awards. Presented annually, these honors recognize the region's most distinguished financial institutions and spotlight those setting new benchmarks in innovation, customer experience and leadership within the banking sector. During the awards ceremony held by MEED magazine in Dubai, NBK was honored with three major distinctions, including 'Best Bank in Kuwait - 2025' - a new milestone that reaffirms the Bank's leading position in the financial sector. Additionally, Isam Al-Sager, NBK Group Vice Chairman and CEO, was named 'MENA Sustainability Leader of the Year' in recognition of his outstanding leadership and pivotal role in driving the Bank's sustainability agenda. His contributions have positioned NBK as a model for advancing one of the most vital causes shaping the future of coming generations. In the meantime, NBK Wealth was named MENA Fund Manager of the Year - 2025, further cementing the Group's standing as one of the region's leading asset management firms. Muhammad Al-Borno and Kholood Abdullah receive the award of the Best Bank in Kuwait. Muhammad Al-Borno receives the Sustainability Leader Award on behalf of Essam Al Saqr. Best in the local market NBK's recognition as the Best Bank in Kuwait for 2025 reaffirms its outstanding track record in delivering an exceptional banking experience — one that not only fulfills customers' needs but consistently exceeds their expectations. Renowned for pioneering innovative banking services and advanced payment solutions, NBK continues to lead the way in digital banking, making its name synonymous with innovation and excellence in Kuwait and across the region. Furthermore, NBK holds the highest credit ratings among all banks in the region, as affirmed by leading international credit rating agencies — Moody's, S&P's and Fitch. The Bank also stands out for its expansive local and international network, spanning key global financial centers, including China, Geneva, London, Paris, New York, and Singapore, alongside a strong regional presence across Lebanon, Egypt, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE. Sustainability leader MEED honored Isam Al-Sager, NBK Group Vice Chairman and CEO, with the MENA Sustainability Leader of the Year award. This recognition affirms his pivotal role in steering NBK toward numerous sustainability milestones and reinforcing the foundations of sustainable development in Kuwait and across all the markets where the Bank operates. Among NBK's most notable milestones in this area is the integration of ESG standards across its operations and corporate culture — an approach that supports the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy and aligns with Kuwait's national roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Over the past year, the Bank has made significant strides in advancing its sustainability agenda, most notably through the successful issuance of its inaugural US$500 million green bonds — the first of their kind by a Kuwaiti financial institution. By the end of 2024, the Bank's sustainable finance portfolio had reached US$4.97 billion, representing nearly 50 percent of its US$10 billion target by 2030. Additionally, the Bank published its first Green Bond Allocation and Impact Report, underscoring the positive environmental outcomes resulting from the deployment of bond proceeds. NBK has been at the forefront of banks embracing the shift toward sustainable finance, launching a comprehensive suite of green transformation products and services across its branches. These include echo friendly housing loans, sustainability-linked financing, and consumer loans for electric vehicles — reinforcing the Bank's commitment to supporting environmentally responsible choices and advancing the transition to a low-carbon economy. Al-Sager was also ranked first in Kuwait and third in the banking and financial services sector across the Middle East in Forbes magazine's 2024 list of Sustainability Leaders in the region — further underscoring his influential role in driving sustainable practices within the banking industry.
Kuwait Times
17-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK Wealth Group relocates to its new London office
Group underscores its commitment to excellence in client service and tailored wealth solutions KUWAIT: NBK Wealth Group has announced the completion of its newly-refurbished office within NBK International building dedicated to providing an elevated experience for its wealth management clients and reaffirming the Group's ongoing commitment to enhancing the client experience and delivering exceptional standards in wealth management. The official opening ceremony was attended by Isam Al-Sager, Vice-Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer; Shaikha Al-Bahar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer; Malek Khalifa, CEO of NBK Wealth Global Private Banking and Switzerland, Omar Bouhadiba, CEO of International Banking Groupat NBK, and Bassem Boustany, the Managing Director of National Bank of Kuwait, London (NBK International). This move underscores NBK Wealth's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional wealth management services to its clients, providing them with seamless access to its products and services. The new office, situated within NBK's London building, offers enhanced client meeting spaces and upgraded technological infrastructure. This investment in a modern and accessible environment will further enable the NBK Wealth team in London to deliver tailored financial solutions and personalized support to meet the evolving needs of its valued clientele. NBK Wealth remains dedicated to fostering strong relationships with its clients. In addition to its selective range of banking products, the London office offers residential and commercial real estate finance to our esteemed clients who are seeking property investments in the UK guiding them through the financing process. Knowing the importance of preservation of family wealth and planning, our dedicated team of Trust professionals in London can assist clients with their succession planning requirements to ensure a secure and seamless transition of wealth to future generations. NBK Wealth remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering strong relationships with its clients in Kuwait and KSA. This investment in a dedicated and upgraded space within the London office will further strengthen NBK Wealth's ability to deliver tailored wealth management solutions. All existing contact details, including phone numbers and email addresses, will remain the same, ensuring a smooth transition for clients. NBK Wealth is one of the pillars of NBK Group and a pioneer wealth management group in the Middle East, as the value of its assets under management exceeds US$ 41bn Personal Financial Assets as of the end of 2024. It enjoys a wide geographical presence that extends over 9 cities in 5 different countries, in which it provides a comprehensive package of products, including private banking services, financial planning, asset management, and advisory services. NBK Wealth follows a specialized solution-based approach that suits the individual needs of its clients as per their unique goals, whether that of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and institutions. NBK Wealth is a brand registered under the name of National Bank of Kuwait S.A.K.P ('NBK'), for use by the Asset Management business of, among other NBK group entities, Watani Investment Company K.S.C.C. , a leading investment firm and its affiliates worldwide, combined with the Private Banking services of NBK worldwide, which is one of the largest and oldest financial institutions in the region.
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
NBK continues to strengthen its operational resilience and invest in advanced technologies
Al Sager: NBK Not Only Overcomes Challenges — It Transforms Them into Opportunities for a Stronger, More Sustainable Future NBK remains confident in its ability to adapt to evolving economic conditions while maintaining its leadership in the local market The bank's strong regional and international footprint continues to play a key role in mitigating risks, stabilizing revenues, and boosting operational efficiency Excluding the impact of the recently introduced tax, NBK reported a 0.8% year-on-year increase in first-quarter profits The bank sustained solid performance metrics, delivering a return on average assets of 1.33% and a return on average shareholders' equity of 13.1% NBK continues to strengthen its operational resilience and invest in advanced technologies, all while upholding the highest standards of quality to meet evolving customer needs With over KD 10 billion in projects currently underway, the government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing its ambitious development and reform agenda The recently enacted Financing and Liquidity Law is expected to provide greater flexibility in managing public finances The banking sector's strong liquidity position reinforces its capacity to support national priorities, including playing a central role in addressing the country's housing challenges Ronghe: NBK Group maintains a solid financial position, supported by robust capitalization and high credit quality The Bank's diversified and stable funding base continues to provide the flexibility needed to finance major development projects currently in the pipeline The anticipated issuance of sovereign debt instruments by the Kuwaiti government is expected to create opportunities for redeploying liquidity into interest-bearing assets, further enhancing returns International operations remain a key pillar of the Group's performance, contributing 26% of operating income and 27% of net profit IBG and Boubyan Bank accounted for 44% and 23%, respectively, of the Group's total assets—highlighting the strength and balance of NBK's diversified business model. Mr. Isam Al-Sager, Vice Chairman and Group CEO of National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), expressed unwavering confidence in the bank's ability to swiftly adapt to the evolving economic landscape, all while maintaining its leadership position in the local market. On the sidelines of the analyst conference call for the first quarter of 2025, Al-Sager stated, "We not only overcome these challenges, but we seize them as opportunities to build a stronger and more sustainable future." He emphasized that NBK continues to enhance its flexibility, investment, and technology, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the highest quality standards in addressing the evolving needs of its customers. He highlighted that NBK's regional and international presence remains a key factor in mitigating risks, stabilizing revenue, and improving operational efficiency. He further stressed that the Group's ongoing goal is to drive value and profitability by strengthening the integration of its businesses and expanding cross-selling opportunities across the various markets in which it operates. Al-Sager emphasized that the Group's wealth management business will continue to leverage its extensive experience in delivering a comprehensive approach to portfolio management, advisory services, and investment opportunities. Meanwhile, its Islamic banking arm, represented by Boubyan Bank, will further reinforce NBK's distinctive position in the local market and play a pivotal role in diversifying its sources of profitability. He attributed the 8.5% year-on-year decrease in the bank's net profit for the first three months of 2025 primarily to the introduction of the new Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (DMTT), which took effect this quarter. This led to an increase in the effective tax rate to 16.3% in 1Q2025, compared to 9.2% in the corresponding period of 2024. He noted that, excluding the impact of the new tax, pre-tax profit actually saw a 0.8% year-on-year increase, reaching KD 173.4 million in the first quarter of 2025. Al-Sager stated that the Group's returns remained robust despite the impact of the new tax system, with the return on average assets reaching 1.33% in the first quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, the return on average shareholders' equity stood at 13.1%. He also highlighted that the Group's loan portfolio is strategically allocated, with 70% originating from Kuwait and 30% generated through its international presence. 'NBK reaffirms its unwavering commitment to sustainability and advancing its sustainable financial agenda. The successful issuance of the first green bonds in 2024 stands as one of the bank's most significant achievements, attracting strong interest from international investors and reaffirming the market's confidence in our ESG strategy,' Al-Sager added. He highlighted that the bank continues to make significant strides in integrating climate-related standards into its operations, with a particular focus on reducing the carbon footprint of its investment portfolio and effectively managing climate risks. He noted that these efforts align with leading international standards, strengthening NBK's role as a key player in supporting Kuwait's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, while also reflecting its crucial role in driving the transition toward a low-emission economy. Kuwait's Economy On the performance of the Kuwaiti economy, Al-Sager stated that despite the slowdown in macroeconomic activity in 2024, the near-term growth outlook for 2025 remains optimistic. He attributed this positive outlook to several key factors, including the anticipated easing of voluntary production cuts by OPEC+, the gradual recovery of consumer spending, credit growth, the resurgence of momentum in project market activities, and the potential acceleration of public investment. He explained that, supported by these factors, Kuwait's GDP is expected to grow by 3.0% in 2025. Regarding the projects market, Al-Sager noted, 'The market experienced some slowdown in the first quarter of 2025, following a strong year of activity in 2024. The value of projects awarded in the first quarter reached over KD 400 million. However, the outlook remains promising, with projects in preparation estimated to exceed KD 10 billion, reflecting the government's strong commitment to advancing its development and reform agenda at an accelerated pace'. As for the short-term outlook for oil prices, Al-Sager remarked that as the government continues to focus on implementing its development plan, oil price fluctuations have become less impactful on capital spending. He explained that this type of spending now accounts for less than 10% of the total government budget, reducing the likelihood of significant savings should oil revenues face pressure. He also noted that the first two years of capital spending will primarily focus on addressing infrastructure gaps, with the provision of basic services to meet population growth remaining a key priority. He stated that the recently approved Financing and Liquidity Law provides the government with greater flexibility in managing its financial resources, enabling the issuance of debt instruments worth up to KD 30 billion. On the mortgage law, Al-Sager explained that several important meetings have recently been held to approve the law, including discussions with the Public Authority for Population Welfare to sign advisory service agreements with real estate developers. He indicated that the law is expected to be approved due to its strategic importance, particularly given the more than 100,000 pending housing applications and the growing population of Kuwaiti youth, which adds approximately 10,000 new applications annually. Furthermore, Al-Sager emphasized that the banking sector's strong liquidity position strengthens its ability to play a key role in addressing the housing problem in Kuwait. The GCC & The Global Economy Al-Sager pointed out that, supported by robust fiscal reserves, ambitious economic reform programs, continued progress in major projects, and strong demand, the economies of the GCC are expected to maintain relatively strong performance in 2025. However, he cautioned that tightening global financial conditions could dampen investment and trade flows, increase financing costs, and potentially lead to a decline in demand, along with volatile oil prices. Regarding the global economy, Al-Sager noted that it has recently navigated a complex environment marked by shifting monetary policies and escalating geopolitical tensions. He pointed out that the recent trade war and tariffs imposed by the US administration have cast a shadow over the economic landscape, potentially contributing to higher inflation rates and a slowdown in growth, further deepening the uncertainty surrounding the global economic outlook. Robust Operational Performance In the meantime, Mr. Sujit Ronghe, NBK Group Chief Financial Officer, stated that despite the impact of the new tax regime, the Group maintained strong operating performance in the first quarter of 2025, driven by significant growth in business activities, particularly in lending and investment. He highlighted that the operating income mix remains well-balanced, with non-interest income comprising 24% of total revenue sources. Ronghe emphasized that NBK Group's financial position remains robust, characterized by high levels of credit quality, strong capitalization, and the bank's ability to generate operating profits that enhance its capacity to absorb credit losses. He further noted that the Group continues to leverage its unique advantage among Kuwaiti banks, particularly through its broad geographical presence via a network of overseas branches and subsidiaries, along with its ability to offer both conventional and Islamic banking services. He highlighted that operating income during the first quarter of 2025 was distributed across key business segments, with overseas branches and subsidiaries contributing 26%, Islamic banking 22%, consumer banking 20%, corporate banking 12%, and NBK Wealth 9%. Ronghe further explained that overseas branches and subsidiaries accounted for 27% of the Group's net profit during the first quarter of 2025, while Islamic banking contributed 19%, corporate banking 17%, consumer banking 16%, and NBK Wealth's contribution reached 10%. He also noted that IBG and Boubyan Bank collectively contributed 44% and 23%, respectively, to the Group's total assets, reinforcing the Group's strategy of diversifying its revenue sources. Ronghe noted that the Group's loans and advances saw impressive growth during the first quarter of 2025, reaching KD 24.6 billion, reflecting a 9.9% increase compared to March 2024 and a 3.8% rise on a quarterly basis. This growth was driven by higher loan volumes in both Kuwait and international markets, across conventional and Islamic banking services. He further pointed out that, amidst the prevailing economic uncertainty, loan growth in 2025 is expected to remain in the single-digit range. However, any improvement in global conditions, a faster pace of project implementation, or the approval of the mortgage law in Kuwait could significantly boost the growth of loan activities. Regarding the recently implemented DMTT tax in Kuwait and its impact on the bank's profits for the current year, Ronghe stated: "The executive regulations of the law are expected to be issued within six months of its adoption. In the absence of detailed regulations at this stage, current estimates suggest that the effective tax rate for 2025 will range between 16% and 17% of pre-tax profits. He pointed out that the net interest margin for the first quarter of 2025 was impacted, reaching 2.45%, due to an unfavorable shift in the asset mix, along with the annual effect of the depreciation of the Egyptian pound and the decline in historically high interest rates. However, the recent approval of the Finance and Liquidity Law in Kuwait boosts expectations for the upcoming issuance of sovereign debt instruments this year, which will allow the bank to repurpose liquidity into interest-bearing assets. He emphasized the bank's capacity to provide the necessary financing for development projects currently in the pipelines, supported by its diversified and stable financing base, which aligns with NBK's strategy for sustainable growth. Regarding his outlook for the operating environment, Ronghe stated: 'Despite the prevailing uncertainty in the economic landscape, we remain cautiously optimistic that the overall operating environment, although challenging, stabilize in due course during 2025'.
Arab Times
23-04-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Al Sager: NBK Not Only Overcomes Challenges — It Transforms Them into Opportunities for a Stronger, More Sustainable Fu ture
KUWAIT CITY, Apr 23: Mr. Isam Al-Sager, Vice Chairman and Group CEO of National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), expressed unwavering confidence in the bank's ability to swiftly adapt to the evolving economic landscape, all while maintaining its leadership position in the local market. On the sidelines of the analyst conference call for the first quarter of 2025, Al-Sager stated, "We not only overcome these challenges, but we seize them as opportunities to build a stronger and more sustainable future." He emphasized that NBK continues to enhance its flexibility, investment, and technology, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the highest quality standards in addressing the evolving needs of its customers. He highlighted that NBK's regional and international presence remains a key factor in mitigating risks, stabilizing revenue, and improving operational efficiency. He further stressed that the Group's ongoing goal is to drive value and profitability by strengthening the integration of its businesses and expanding cross-selling opportunities across the various markets in which it operates. Al-Sager emphasized that the Group's wealth management business will continue to leverage its extensive experience in delivering a comprehensive approach to portfolio management, advisory services, and investment opportunities. Meanwhile, its Islamic banking arm, represented by Boubyan Bank, will further reinforce NBK's distinctive position in the local market and play a pivotal role in diversifying its sources of profitability. He attributed the 8.5% year-on-year decrease in the bank's net profit for the first three months of 2025 primarily to the introduction of the new Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (DMTT), which took effect this quarter. This led to an increase in the effective tax rate to 16.3% in 1Q2025, compared to 9.2% in the corresponding period of 2024. He noted that, excluding the impact of the new tax, pre-tax profit actually saw a 0.8% year-on-year increase, reaching KD 173.4 million in the first quarter of 2025. Al-Sager stated that the Group's returns remained robust despite the impact of the new tax system, with the return on average assets reaching 1.33% in the first quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, the return on average shareholders' equity stood at 13.1%. He also highlighted that the Group's loan portfolio is strategically allocated, with 70% originating from Kuwait and 30% generated through its international presence. 'NBK reaffirms its unwavering commitment to sustainability and advancing its sustainable financial agenda. The successful issuance of the first green bonds in 2024 stands as one of the bank's most significant achievements, attracting strong interest from international investors and reaffirming the market's confidence in our ESG strategy,' Al-Sager added. He highlighted that the bank continues to make significant strides in integrating climate-related standards into its operations, with a particular focus on reducing the carbon footprint of its investment portfolio and effectively managing climate risks. He noted that these efforts align with leading international standards, strengthening NBK's role as a key player in supporting Kuwait's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, while also reflecting its crucial role in driving the transition toward a low-emission economy. Kuwait's Economy On the performance of the Kuwaiti economy, Al-Sager stated that despite the slowdown in macroeconomic activity in 2024, the near-term growth outlook for 2025 remains optimistic. He attributed this positive outlook to several key factors, including the anticipated easing of voluntary production cuts by OPEC+, the gradual recovery of consumer spending, credit growth, the resurgence of momentum in project market activities, and the potential acceleration of public investment. He explained that, supported by these factors, Kuwait's GDP is expected to grow by 3.0% in 2025. Regarding the projects market, Al-Sager noted, 'The market experienced some slowdown in the first quarter of 2025, following a strong year of activity in 2024. The value of projects awarded in the first quarter reached over KD 400 million. However, the outlook remains promising, with projects in preparation estimated to exceed KD 10 billion, reflecting the government's strong commitment to advancing its development and reform agenda at an accelerated pace'. As for the short-term outlook for oil prices, Al-Sager remarked that as the government continues to focus on implementing its development plan, oil price fluctuations have become less impactful on capital spending. He explained that this type of spending now accounts for less than 10% of the total government budget, reducing the likelihood of significant savings should oil revenues face pressure. He also noted that the first two years of capital spending will primarily focus on addressing infrastructure gaps, with the provision of basic services to meet population growth remaining a key priority. He stated that the recently approved Financing and Liquidity Law provides the government with greater flexibility in managing its financial resources, enabling the issuance of debt instruments worth up to KD 30 billion. On the mortgage law, Al-Sager explained that several important meetings have recently been held to approve the law, including discussions with the Public Authority for Population Welfare to sign advisory service agreements with real estate developers. He indicated that the law is expected to be approved due to its strategic importance, particularly given the more than 100,000 pending housing applications and the growing population of Kuwaiti youth, which adds approximately 10,000 new applications annually. Furthermore, Al-Sager emphasized that the banking sector's strong liquidity position strengthens its ability to play a key role in addressing the housing problem in Kuwait. The GCC & The Global Economy Al-Sager pointed out that, supported by robust fiscal reserves, ambitious economic reform programs, continued progress in major projects, and strong demand, the economies of the GCC are expected to maintain relatively strong performance in 2025. However, he cautioned that tightening global financial conditions could dampen investment and trade flows, increase financing costs, and potentially lead to a decline in demand, along with volatile oil prices. Regarding the global economy, Al-Sager noted that it has recently navigated a complex environment marked by shifting monetary policies and escalating geopolitical tensions. He pointed out that the recent trade war and tariffs imposed by the US administration have cast a shadow over the economic landscape, potentially contributing to higher inflation rates and a slowdown in growth, further deepening the uncertainty surrounding the global economic outlook. Robust Operational Performance In the meantime, Mr. Sujit Ronghe, NBK Group Chief Financial Officer, stated that despite the impact of the new tax regime, the Group maintained strong operating performance in the first quarter of 2025, driven by significant growth in business activities, particularly in lending and investment. He highlighted that the operating income mix remains well-balanced, with non-interest income comprising 24% of total revenue sources. Ronghe emphasized that NBK Group's financial position remains robust, characterized by high levels of credit quality, strong capitalization, and the bank's ability to generate operating profits that enhance its capacity to absorb credit losses. He further noted that the Group continues to leverage its unique advantage among Kuwaiti banks, particularly through its broad geographical presence via a network of overseas branches and subsidiaries, along with its ability to offer both conventional and Islamic banking services. He highlighted that operating income during the first quarter of 2025 was distributed across key business segments, with overseas branches and subsidiaries contributing 26%, Islamic banking 22%, consumer banking 20%, corporate banking 12%, and NBK Wealth 9%. Ronghe further explained that overseas branches and subsidiaries accounted for 27% of the Group's net profit during the first quarter of 2025, while Islamic banking contributed 19%, corporate banking 17%, consumer banking 16%, and NBK Wealth's contribution reached 10%. He also noted that IBG and Boubyan Bank collectively contributed 44% and 23%, respectively, to the Group's total assets, reinforcing the Group's strategy of diversifying its revenue sources. Ronghe noted that the Group's loans and advances saw impressive growth during the first quarter of 2025, reaching KD 24.6 billion, reflecting a 9.9% increase compared to March 2024 and a 3.8% rise on a quarterly basis. This growth was driven by higher loan volumes in both Kuwait and international markets, across conventional and Islamic banking services. He further pointed out that, amidst the prevailing economic uncertainty, loan growth in 2025 is expected to remain in the single-digit range. However, any improvement in global conditions, a faster pace of project implementation, or the approval of the mortgage law in Kuwait could significantly boost the growth of loan activities. Regarding the recently implemented DMTT tax in Kuwait and its impact on the bank's profits for the current year, Ronghe stated: "The executive regulations of the law are expected to be issued within six months of its adoption. In the absence of detailed regulations at this stage, current estimates suggest that the effective tax rate for 2025 will range between 16% and 17% of pre-tax profits. He pointed out that the net interest margin for the first quarter of 2025 was impacted, reaching 2.45%, due to an unfavorable shift in the asset mix, along with the annual effect of the depreciation of the Egyptian pound and the decline in historically high interest rates. However, the recent approval of the Finance and Liquidity Law in Kuwait boosts expectations for the upcoming issuance of sovereign debt instruments this year, which will allow the bank to repurpose liquidity into interest-bearing assets. He emphasized the bank's capacity to provide the necessary financing for development projects currently in the pipelines, supported by its diversified and stable financing base, which aligns with NBK's strategy for sustainable growth. Regarding his outlook for the operating environment, Ronghe stated: 'Despite the prevailing uncertainty in the economic landscape, we remain cautiously optimistic that the overall operating environment, although challenging, stabilize in due course during 2025'.
