Thursday, April 23, 2026

EastWest Bank declares a Php 1.8 billion cash dividend following record 21% profit growth

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) announced a total cash dividend of Php 1.8 billion, or Php 0.82 per share, during its annual stockholders’ meeting. The dividend is payable on May 29, 2026, to all shareholders on record as of May 11, 2026.

The payout follows a standout 2025 fiscal year where the Bank posted a net income of Php 9.2 billion, representing a 21% year-on-year increase. This performance was driven by a disciplined focus on consumer lending, digital innovation, and operational efficiency.

EastWest’s 2025 success was anchored by a robust balance sheet and a shift toward higher-yielding consumer assets. Key financial highlights include:

  • Net Interest Income: Rose 21% to Php 40.6 billion.

  • Return on Equity (ROE): Sustained double-digit performance at 11.9%.

  • Efficiency: The cost-to-income ratio improved to 49.7% as revenue growth outpaced expenses.

  • Deposit Strength: CASA deposits grew by 14%, resulting in a high CASA ratio of 82%.

  • Priority Banking: Assets Under Management (AUM) surged 40% to over Php 100 billion, supported by 13 dedicated Priority Centers nationwide.

“At a time when many families and businesses are navigating an uncertain environment, we believe the role of a bank is not only to perform, but to remain steady, prepared, and responsive,” said EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo. “Our 2025 results reflect the Bank’s capacity to deliver returns to shareholders while remaining a dependable financial partner to our customers and the communities we serve.”

East West Bank marked significant milestones in 2025 by embedding its services into the daily lives of Filipinos. Notably, it launched EW Pay with Google Pay integration, becoming the first bank in the Philippines to offer NFC “tap-to-pay” directly from a bank account without an e-wallet intermediary.

EastWest also expanded its ecosystem through strategic partnerships with major brands including Unioil, foodpanda, Puregold, and Autodeal, streamlining credit and payment capabilities at key customer touchpoints.

Looking toward the remainder of 2026, EastWest plans to focus on four strategic pillars:

  1. Portfolio Rebalancing: Shifting toward more secured asset classes.

  2. Operational Efficiency: Leveraging technology to optimize internal processes.

  3. Digital Investment: Continuous enhancement of digital platforms.

  4. Talent Development: Building the capabilities of its workforce.

“While the environment has grown more complex, we remain committed to the disciplined, customer-centered approach that has driven our growth and keeps our foundation sound,” added Ngo. “The work of regenerating and strengthening our Bank continues.”

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