Chinabank reported a solid start to 2025, posting a net income of P6.5 billion in the first quarter—a 10% increase from the same period last year—fueled by continued strength in its core businesses.
The strong performance translated to a return on equity of 15.1% and a return on assets of 1.6%, keeping Chinabank among the top-performing banks in the industry.
“Our first-quarter results reflect the fruits of the concerted efforts across all our different businesses to drive organic growth and support our customers,” said Chinabank President and CEO Romeo D. Uyan Jr.
Net interest income rose 14% year-on-year to P17.1 billion, driven by higher asset yields and robust loan growth, which more than offset increased interest expenses. The bank’s net interest margin remained steady at 4.5%, while total revenues climbed 8% to P16.3 billion.
Operating expenses increased 17% to P8.4 billion, largely due to sustained investments in digital platforms, infrastructure, and talent development.
As of end-March 2025, total assets grew 10% to P1.7 trillion, reinforcing Chinabank’s position as the fourth-largest private universal bank in the Philippines.
Gross loans expanded by 19% to P954 billion, reflecting strong lending activity across both business and consumer segments. The bank maintained healthy asset quality, with a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of 1.5%, better than the industry average.
In line with improved credit conditions, provisions for credit losses declined 6% to P285 million. NPL coverage improved to 112%, compared to 108% the previous quarter, reflecting updated BSP reporting guidelines. Under the prior framework, coverage would have stood at 143%, up from 139%.
On the funding side, total deposits rose 8% to P1.3 trillion, supported by consistent growth in both CASA and time deposits.
Chinabank Chief Finance Officer Patrick D. Cheng cited the bank’s ongoing digital transformation as a key enabler of growth: “With the launch of our enhanced mobile app My CBC and other digital initiatives underway, we aim to deliver better service, grow our customer base, and deepen client relationships.”
Total equity rose 13% to P175 billion, lifting book value per share by 13% to P65.01. Reflecting strong financial health and a commitment to shareholder returns, Chinabank declared 14% higher cash dividends for 2025, totaling P6.7 billion, equivalent to a 27% payout ratio.
Shareholders on record as of May 9, 2025, will receive P1.50 per common share regular dividend and a P1.00 per share special dividend on May 22, 2025.
