KARACHI, October 29, 2026: The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) reported a profit after tax of Rs48.9 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2026, with earnings per share of Rs22.98, as the bank navigated lower interest rates and comparatively strong results in the previous year.
The bank’s Board of Directors met on October 28 to approve its interim condensed financial statements for the period. NBP reported total income of Rs193.6 billion for the first nine months of 2026.
According to the bank, the comparative period in 2025 benefited from a declining policy-rate environment, higher net interest income and stronger capital-market gains.
Net interest income reflects lower rates
NBP’s gross interest income fell 6.4% year-on-year to Rs562.6 billion, primarily reflecting lower average interest rates.
Income from the investment portfolio reached Rs427.1 billion, with the bank continuing to favour shorter-duration government securities. The cost of funds stood at Rs406.5 billion, bringing net interest income to Rs156.1 billion.
Non-fund income totalled Rs37.5 billion during the period, supported by growth in foreign-exchange and dividend income.
Foreign-exchange income increased 24.3% year-on-year to Rs5.9 billion, while dividend income rose 33.4% to Rs5.2 billion. Fee and commission income stood at Rs17.9 billion amid lower business volumes.
Capital gains declined to Rs9.8 billion from Rs13.3 billion in the corresponding period of 2025, when market conditions were particularly favourable.
Operating expenses rise 8.8%
Operating expenses increased 8.8% year-on-year to Rs96.8 billion. NBP said the rate of increase was slower than the 9.3% recorded in the corresponding period last year.
The bank attributed the trend to continued cost discipline amid inflationary pressures and ongoing investment in its capabilities.
However, the cost-to-income ratio reached 50%, reflecting the impact of lower income on operating efficiency.
Total assets climb to Rs7.75 trillion
NBP’s total assets increased 9.7% to Rs7,753.1 billion from Rs7,067 billion at the end of 2025.
Net advances rose 1.7% to Rs1,360.8 billion, while investments at cost increased to Rs5,290.5 billion, primarily through government securities.
As part of its deposit strategy, the bank rationalised certain high-cost deposits. Total deposits stood at Rs4,012.7 billion.
The bank reported a strong deposit composition, with core sticky deposits of Rs3,591.1 billion accounting for 89.5% of total deposits. Current accounts amounted to Rs1,896.9 billion, representing 47.3% of the deposit base.
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Capital position remains above regulatory requirements
During the period, NBP distributed a dividend of Rs35 per share for 2025, amounting to Rs74.5 billion.
Following the distribution, the bank reported net assets of Rs470.2 billion and total eligible capital of Rs478.2 billion.
Its Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 21.12%, while the Tier 1 capital ratio reached 16.46% and the leverage ratio stood at 3.69%. NBP said these ratios remained above applicable regulatory requirements following the substantial shareholder payout.
The bank’s standalone credit rating of AAA — the highest rating awarded to a bank in Pakistan — was reaffirmed by both PACRA and VIS Credit Rating.
Imran Sarwar appointed President and CEO
The Federal Government appointed Imran Sarwar as NBP President and Chief Executive Officer on September 3, 2026, for a three-year term.
Commenting on the nine-month results, Sarwar said the bank’s strength lay in the trust of its customers, the dedication of its employees and the resilience of its balance sheet.
He said the results reflected the prevailing interest-rate environment while demonstrating that NBP remained profitable and well-capitalised after returning significant value to shareholders.
Focus on financial inclusion and digital transformation
NBP continues to serve key economic sectors, including agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises, microfinance and Islamic banking through its Aitemaad network.
The bank is also advancing its digital transformation agenda and integrating environmental, social and governance principles into its strategy. Its initiatives include expanding green banking products and strengthening corporate social responsibility programmes.
Established in 1949, NBP says it remains committed to expanding financial inclusion and supporting Pakistan’s socioeconomic development.
The bank continues to follow its guiding tagline: “Ek Azm, Ek Pehchan – National Bank Aur Pakistan.”
