Fidelity Bank Posts N281 Billion Pre-Tax Profit and has demonstrated exceptional financial performance in the first nine months of 2024, reporting a pre-tax profit of N281.4 billion, representing a remarkable 153.54% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The bank’s strong financial results highlight its continued growth and profitability amidst challenging economic conditions.
Strong Third-Quarter Results
In the third quarter alone, Fidelity Bank achieved a pre-tax profit of N81.6 billion, a significant leap of 135.5% from N34.6 billion recorded in Q3 2023. This strong quarterly performance contributed to Fidelity’s impressive year-to-date profits, making it one of the standout performers in the Nigerian banking sector.
Key highlights from Fidelity Bank’s Q3 2024 financial results include:
- Gross Earnings: N249.5 billion (up 76.12% year-on-year)
- Net Interest Income: N139.5 billion (up 60.16% year-on-year)
- Credit Loss Expense: N12 billion (down 1.98% year-on-year)
- Fee and Commission Income: N20.7 billion (up 69.19% year-on-year)
- Fee and Commission Expense: N1.4 billion (down 24.73% year-on-year)
- Pre-Tax Profit: N81.6 billion (up 135.5% year-on-year)
- Post-Tax Profit: N63.8 billion (up 114.61% year-on-year)
- Earnings Per Share (EPS): N1.99 (up 114.6% year-on-year)
Asset and Cash Flow Growth
Fidelity Bank’s total assets reached a new high of N9.5 trillion, reflecting a 52.96% year-on-year increase. This growth was driven by a robust increase in loans and advances, which totaled N4.25 trillion, alongside cash and cash equivalents amounting to N1.16 trillion.
The bank also recorded a significant boost in operating cash flow, which rose to N2.11 trillion from N418.65 billion in the previous year. This improvement in cash flow highlights Fidelity’s effective liquidity management and operational efficiency.
Revenue and Profitability Highlights
- Net Interest Income rose by 60.16% to N139.5 billion in Q3 2024, up from N87.1 billion in the same period last year. This growth was driven by strategic investments in interest-earning assets.
- Fee and Commission Income increased by 69.19% to N20.7 billion, reflecting the bank’s focus on diversifying its income streams beyond traditional lending.
- Cost Efficiency: The bank reduced its fee and commission expenses by 24.73%, demonstrating improved cost management practices.
Strategic Outlook
Fidelity Bank’s impressive financial performance underscores its strategic focus on expanding its customer base, optimizing operational efficiency, and diversifying revenue sources. The bank’s rising earnings per share, which nearly doubled year-on-year, indicates strong returns for shareholders.
Looking forward, Fidelity Bank aims to sustain its growth trajectory by leveraging its strong asset base and diversified income streams to navigate economic uncertainties.