Pearl Bank Reports Shs47bn Profit in First Results Post-Rebrand
Strong Financial Performance Marks New Era for Pearl Bank Uganda
Pearl Bank Uganda has released its first annual results since rebranding, showcasing a robust financial performance. The bank reported a net profit after tax of Shs47.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025. This represents a significant 34 percent increase from the Shs35.4 billion recorded in 2024, marking a strong beginning under its new identity following the transition from PostBank Uganda.
The impressive results reflect growing customer confidence, the expansion of digital services, and continued alignment with national development priorities. These factors have contributed to the bank's overall success and its ability to meet the evolving needs of Ugandans.
Growth in Assets and Deposits
The bank's total assets experienced a notable growth of 31 percent, reaching Shs1.87 trillion. Customer deposits also saw a sharp rise of 43 percent, totaling Shs1.42 trillion. This increase in deposits has strengthened the bank's lending capacity, allowing it to support more customers and businesses.
Its loan portfolio expanded to Shs749 billion, driven by growth in both interest income and non-funded revenue streams. Total income for the year reached Shs298 billion, demonstrating the bank's ability to generate revenue through diverse channels.
Digital Transformation and Financial Inclusion
A key factor behind the positive results was the rapid adoption of the bank's digital platform, Wendi. The platform's deposits increased more than fivefold, reaching Shs240.5 billion. This growth highlights the bank's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance financial access across the country.
Wendi has played a crucial role in expanding financial inclusion, supported by over 10,000 agents operating across parishes and sub-counties. Additionally, more than 15,000 SACCOs have been onboarded to the system, supporting grassroots financial inclusion initiatives such as the Parish Development Model.
Leadership Vision and Strategic Focus
Managing Director Julius Kakeeto emphasized that the performance reflects the successful execution of the bank's strategy to build a national, impact-driven financial institution. He noted that the growth in deposits demonstrates public trust, while the uptake of digital services shows how technology is reshaping access to financial solutions.
"We remain focused on staying relevant to the everyday lives of Ugandans while delivering sustainable growth," he said.
Board Chairman Andrew Otengo Owiny described the rebranding as a turning point in the institution's transformation. He stated that the rebranding has positioned Pearl Bank as a modern commercial bank aligned with Uganda's development agenda.
Government and Industry Support
Government officials welcomed the results, recognizing the bank's contribution to the economy. Finance Minister Matia Kasaija highlighted that the performance mirrors broader economic growth and urged the bank to increase lending to productive sectors of the economy.
State Minister for Finance Evelyn Anite praised Pearl Bank as a fully Ugandan institution and encouraged it to expand its competitiveness beyond the domestic market.
Sectoral Lending and Sustainability
Beyond profitability, the bank reported increased lending to key sectors. It disbursed Shs340 billion to agriculture, benefiting more than 11,000 farmers. Shs398 billion was allocated to micro, small, and medium enterprises, supporting nearly 18,000 businesses. Over 7,000 micro enterprises also accessed financing aimed at strengthening grassroots economic activity.
In addition, Pearl Bank became the first commercial bank in Uganda to attain Level 3 Sustainability Certification from the European Organisation for Sustainable Development. This achievement underscores the bank's commitment to responsible banking practices.
Future Outlook
With rising assets, expanding digital uptake, and a growing customer base, the bank is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory. It aims to deepen financial inclusion and expand lending to key sectors of the economy, ensuring continued relevance and impact in the years ahead.
