The Bank maintained a high double-digit Return on Equity (ROE) in alignment with its three-year strategy, closing the period at 20.2%. June Half year 2025 income is down 12% year on year on the back of reduced margins caused by higher cost of funding and reduced transactional volumes.
The Bank continued with its cost efficiency measures, resulting in an 11% reduction year on year on operating expenses, closing the period at 59% Cost to Income Ratio (CIR).
“The economic environment we are operating under, is not unique to Standard Chartered Bank. As a whole, the country finds itself on the precipice of change. The combination of macroeconomic elements such as weakened diamond sales & strained liquidity, coupled with our internal strategic shifts, have affected our business performance, resulting in softer results during this period. But what has always remained clear to us is our commitment towards long-term sustainable growth.
Our key capital and liquidity metrics have remained strong, and we continue to focus on unlocking our full potential as we pivot towards delivering our refreshed strategy, offering our differentiated cross-border capabilities for corporate and institutional clients whilst delivering our wealth management expertise for affluent clients.” Notes Mpho Masupe, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Botswana.
As the Bank transitions towards its revised strategic focus, Standard Chartered remains committed to leveraging off the strength of its global network and expertise to bring value for its clients:
The Wealth & Retail Banking business delivered a resilient half-year performance of Profit before Tax (PBT) income of P101.9 million, all while maintaining the asset balance sheet. Key strategic milestones during this period include achieving 90% of the full year Net New Money target in the Affluent Business, demonstrating the quality of the Bank’s investment service offerings and the 11% year on year growth in wealth management income.
The Corporate & Investment Banking balance sheet remains strong, underpinned by growth in both assets and liabilities. Total assets increased by 246% year on year on the back of key trade facilities extended to clients, while liabilities grew by 14% year on year, supported by a diversified funding base.
“We remain deeply engaged with our clients, offering tailored solutions, and supporting them to navigate the dynamic market conditions. Our priorities remain clear: leverage our formidable network to sharpen our focus on serving our Corporate and Investment Banking clients, support government-led efforts in economic recovery, diversification and infrastructure development.” Stated Masupe.
