Banking and Finance

Nations Trust Bank builds growth momentum in 1Q 2026 with a PAT of LKR 4.6Bn

LKR 41.3Bn Loan Growth, up 10% YoY
Profit After Tax of LKR 4.6Bn, up 12% YoY
Net Stage 3 Ratio of 1.10%
Tier I Capital Ratio at 17.31%
Total Capital Adequacy Ratio of 18.41%
Return on Equity 18.98%

Nations Trust Bank PLC (NTB) commenced the financial year on a positive note, delivering a strong performance for the three months ended 31st March 2026, with a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 4.6Bn, marking a 12% year‑on‑year increase. The results were supported by steady asset growth, stable Net Interest Margins (NIMs), and prudent risk management, reflected in a low Net Stage 3 Ratio of 1.10%. A robust capital position further supported the Bank’s performance, with Return on Equity (ROE) reaching 18.98%, indicating the Bank’s continued momentum and a positive outlook for growth in the year ahead.

Nations Trust Bank, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hemantha Gunetilleke, stated,

“The Bank’s performance in 1Q 2026 highlights its strength and the progress of its strategy as we move into the next phase of growth. This is reflected in the expansion of our loan book and our continued focus on supporting customers across consumer, commercial and corporate segments. In doing so, the Bank has contributed to broader economic growth in Sri Lanka, supporting investment and expansion across key sectors. As we further strengthen our capital and liquidity positions, we remain focused on delivering value through high service standards, improved digital capabilities, and a strong customer focus.”

Driven by efficient asset-liability management and prudent pricing strategies, the Bank sustained a NIM of 5.66%. The Bank’s Earnings Per Share for the three months ending 31st March 2026 increased to LKR 13.72 against LKR 12.25 recorded during the same period last year. Strong financial performance continues to bolster NTB’s capital base with a Tier 1 Capital Ratio of 17.31% and a Total Capital Adequacy Ratio of 18.41%, well above the regulatory requirements of 8.5% and 12.5%, respectively.

NTB recently announced to the Colombo Stock Exchange the successful completion of the transfer of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation’s (HSBC) Retail Banking business in Sri Lanka, with the acquired portfolio transitioning to NTB on 1st May 2026. The transaction, originally disclosed to the CSE in September 2025, integrates approximately 343 staff members and 230,000 customer accounts including premium banking clients, credit cards, and retail loans, into NTB’s portfolio, significantly expanding NTB’s retail footprint.

Nations Trust Bank PLC serves a diverse range of customers across Consumer, Commercial and Corporate segments through multi-channel customer touch points. The Bank focuses on digital empowerment through cutting-edge digital banking technologies. NTB is an issuer and sole acquirer of American Express Cards in Sri Lanka with market leadership in the premium market segments.