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…Strengthens Growth Path on Solid Fundamentals
Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”) has sustained its growth momentum, projecting gross earnings of ₦149.27 billion for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2025. This projection builds on the Group’s strong performance in the first half of the year, when profit after tax rose by 157%, gross earnings increased by 39.7% to ₦212.61 billion, and earnings per share climbed to 89 kobo, up from 56 kobo. Collectively, these results underscore a strong year-to-date trajectory, reinforcing profitability and boosting investor confidence in the Group’s long-term outlook.
According to a filing on the Nigerian Exchange, Sterling HoldCo expects interest income of ₦116.73 billion and interest expenses of ₦42.88 billion, resulting in net revenue from funds of ₦73.85 billion. The Group also anticipates credit impairment charges of ₦16.84 billion, with other income projected at ₦28.37 billion, bringing total net operating income to ₦85.37 billion.
Operating expenses are forecast at ₦67.24 billion, resulting in a projected profit before tax of ₦18.13 billion. After accounting for an estimated tax charge of ₦1.88 billion, profit after tax is expected to be ₦16.25 billion for the quarter.
Sterling’s cash flow outlook underscores the strength of its balance sheet. The Group projects ₦13.56 billion in net cash generated from operating activities, alongside ₦266.16 billion in financing inflows and ₦187.93 billion in investing activities.
This is expected to result in a net increase of ₦91.79 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with the cash and bank balance projected to close at ₦549.90 billion by year-end, up from ₦458.11 billion at the beginning of the quarter.
These forecasts build on the Group’s earlier performance in the year, reflecting the continuation of positive momentum, underpinned by disciplined cost management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth.
Beyond financial performance, the outlook reflects the Group’s capacity to channel its financial strength into broader impact.
Sterling HoldCo is strategically positioned to support key growth sectors of the Nigerian economy, invest in innovation, and continue creating value for shareholders, customers, and communities.
The Group noted that its ability to generate strong operating cash flows while maintaining significant liquidity positions provides a solid foundation for resilience. This strength ensures that Sterling HoldCo is not only well-placed to deliver shareholder value but also equipped to deepen its participation in Nigeria’s growth sectors, foster innovation, and support broader economic development.
Note: These projections are forward-looking and based on current assumptions about market conditions and regulatory developments. Actual results may differ materially.
