Key Takeaways
- Askari Bank Limited reported a profit after tax (PAT) increase of 25% to Rs. 13.3 billion for the first half of 2026.
- The bank’s Q2 PAT surged by 93% YoY to Rs. 6.76 billion, driven by fee and commission income growth.
- Total income increased by 15% YoY to Rs. 56.5 billion, with foreign exchange income up 75%.
Askari Bank Limited (PSX: AKBL) has announced a significant increase in its profit after tax (PAT), reporting a rise of 25% year-on-year to Rs. 13.3 billion for the first half of 2026.
The bank’s second quarter (Q2) PAT saw an even more substantial growth, increasing by 93% YoY to Rs. 6.76 billion, reflecting strong performance in fee and commission income.
Total income for the period April-June 2026 surged by 15% YoY to Rs. 56.5 billion, with a notable increase of over 75% in foreign exchange income to Rs. 3 billion.
Net markup income also saw an improvement, rising by 3.5% YoY to Rs. 43.9 billion, while dividend income increased by 56% YoY to Rs. 720 million.
Despite the overall increase in total income, operating expenses rose sharply by 40% YoY to Rs. 28 billion, impacting PAT growth through higher taxation of Rs. 14.7 billion.
The bank’s first interim cash dividend for the half year was announced at Rs. 2 per share, equivalent to a 20% payout, in addition to an already paid First Interim Cash Dividend.
Other income remained stable at Rs. 316.8 million compared to the previous year, while the scrip price of AKBL stood at Rs. 105.24, up 2.11% or Rs. 2.17 with over 10 million shares traded by Friday’s close.
This financial performance reflects Askari Bank’s robust growth in key income streams and dividend distribution strategies.
