ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

Commercial Bank International (CBI) reported record profitability in 2025, with pre-tax net profit rising 40% year-on-year to Dh311 million and post-tax net profit reaching Dh295 million, according to the bank’s full-year financial results.

CBI said the strong performance marked the highest profit in the bank’s history, reflecting robust operating results and continued progress in its strategic transformation.

Net operating income increased 13% to Dh791 million, driven by disciplined balance sheet management, higher fee income and strategic asset monetisation. Net interest income also rose 13% to Dh389 million, supported by an improved current and savings account (CASA) mix and an expansion of around 15 basis points in net interest margin.

The bank reported a significant improvement in asset quality, with net impairment charges declining 33% year-on-year, as legacy issues were addressed. Total assets grew 5% to Dh22 billion, supported by expansion of the investment portfolio, while customer deposits increased 3% to Dh15.9 billion.

The CASA ratio improved by two percentage points year-on-year, strengthening the bank’s funding profile.

CBI said it maintained a strong capital adequacy ratio of 17.2%, well above regulatory requirements.

Commenting on the results, Ali Sultan Rakkad Al Amri, Chief Executive Officer of Commercial Bank International, said: “I am proud to announce 2025 represents a historic milestone for CBI – we have delivered the highest profit in our Bank's history.

"This exceptional 40% pre-tax net profit growth is a testament to the dedication of our team and the disciplined execution of our strategic priorities.”

He added that the record performance reflected the culmination of the bank’s transformation efforts and progress in strengthening financial fundamentals.

“We have successfully enhanced our asset quality, optimised our balance sheet, and deepened customer relationships while maintaining strong capital and liquidity positions,” Al Amri said. “Our improved CASA mix and expanded net interest margin demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach to sustainable income generation.”

Al Amri said the 2025 performance positioned CBI strongly for the future, noting that the bank would build on this momentum to deliver greater value to customers, shareholders and stakeholders in 2026 and beyond.