Photo caption: Sterling HoldCo headquarters
By Emeka Ugwuanyi
Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (Sterling HoldCo) has posted its interim, unaudited full-year financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025. The Group recorded substantial growth in both interest and non-interest income, with gross earnings rising by 46% to ₦476.5 billion.
Interest income surged by 43% to ₦369.6 billion, reflecting growth in loans and advances to customers and improved yields on investment securities. Meanwhile, non-interest income soared by 57.3%, supported by higher trading income, increased fees, and commissions. These income streams contributed to the Group’s ability to navigate a competitive market while maintaining a disciplined approach to cost management.
The Group also demonstrated strong operational efficiency, reducing its cost-to-income ratio to 63%, down from 72% in 2024. This reflects Sterling HoldCo’s commitment to enhancing cost-effectiveness while delivering robust revenue growth. Its profit before tax (PBT) reportedly grew substantially within the period under review, showcasing a 99% year-over-year (YoY).x
A key driver of Sterling HoldCo’s improved performance has been its continued investment in digital and operational capabilities across its banking and non-banking businesses. These investments have enhanced service delivery, improved cost efficiency, and strengthened its capacity to support growing customer volumes while maintaining sound risk controls.
Sterling HoldCo’s total assets grew by 11%, reaching ₦3.92 trillion, with customer deposits rising 18% to ₦2.98 trillion. The Group’s capital position also strengthened, with shareholders’ funds increasing by 39% to ₦424.0 billion, providing a solid foundation for continued growth.
Building on the appreciation of shareholders’ funds, Sterling HoldCo has fortified its capital structure by ensuring its banking subsidiaries met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new recapitalisation requirements well ahead of the March 2026 deadline. This achievement was driven by a series of disciplined capital-raising initiatives, including a public offer of over ₦88 billion to bolster Sterling Bank’s position, and a prior capital injection that secured The Alternative Bank’s status as a national non-interest bank.
With a diversified revenue base, increased capital, and a focus on enhancing digital and operational capabilities, Sterling HoldCo is well-positioned for sustainable growth moving forward.
