National Bank of Kenya (NBK), a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Bank PLC, has posted a strong financial performance for the six months ended June 30, 2026, with profit after tax rising by 61 per cent.
The bank recorded KSh1.72 billion in profit after tax, up from KSh1.07 billion reported during the same period in 2025.
NBK attributed the growth to stronger net interest income, a significant reduction in credit impairment charges and continued cost management as the bank advances its transformation journey.
“The bank has started 2026 on a strong footing, with our first-half performance reflecting the resilience of the business, growing customer confidence and the positive impact of the strategic initiatives we have implemented across the bank,” said John Ojalla, Acting Managing Director of National Bank of Kenya.
He said the bank remains focused on building on the momentum and delivering sustainable value to customers and stakeholders.
NBK Net Interest Income Rises
NBK’s net interest income increased by 11 per cent to KSh5.40 billion, compared with KSh4.87 billion in the first half of 2025.
The growth was supported by disciplined asset pricing and improved funding efficiency, while non-interest income remained resilient at KSh1.47 billion despite a competitive operating environment.
Operating expenses stood at KSh4.61 billion, with the bank attributing the position to continued cost management and operational efficiency initiatives.
A major improvement was recorded in loan loss provisions, which fell sharply to KSh80.9 million from KSh1 billion in the previous year.
The reduction was attributed to improved recoveries and enhanced credit quality.
NBK Balance Sheet Expands
The bank also recorded growth across key balance sheet indicators, reflecting continued customer confidence and expansion across its business.
Total assets increased to KSh157 billion, up from KSh141 billion in December 2025.
Customer deposits also grew to KSh116.3 billion, compared with KSh106.1 billion at the end of December 2025, providing NBK with a stronger funding base to support future growth.
Net loans and advances rose to KSh61 billion from KSh51 billion during the same period, highlighting increased lending to customers and businesses across key sectors.
Ojalla said the first-half results demonstrate progress in strengthening the bank and positioning it for sustainable growth.
He added that NBK will continue focusing on customer experience, digital capabilities, risk management and operational efficiency.
NBK Continues Access Bank Integration
The first-half performance comes as NBK continues its transformation and integration with Access Bank PLC.
The bank said the integration is creating opportunities to improve operational efficiency, strengthen customer relationships and enhance asset quality while expanding its capacity to support businesses and households.
NBK also plans to continue investing in digital capabilities and improving customer experience during the remainder of 2026.
Looking ahead, the bank said it remains optimistic about its growth prospects and intends to maintain disciplined risk management while pursuing further operational efficiencies.
With the continued integration with Access Bank, NBK said it is focused on supporting businesses, households and the broader economy while creating sustainable value for its customers and stakeholders.
