Kenya’s Equity Group Holdings reported a 39% increase in first half 2026 profit before tax to KSh57.8 billion, as stronger income growth, improved asset quality and contributions from its regional banking operations boosted performance, according to MarketScreener. The lender’s profit after tax rose 31.5% to KSh45.5 billion, according to results released on August 19.
The group’s total operating income climbed 24.6% to KSh124.9 billion, supported by a 16.8% increase in net interest income to KSh69.3 billion and a 35.9% jump in non interest income to KSh55.6 billion. At the same time, operating expenses increased at a slower 14.4% pace, helping strengthen profitability. Equity also recorded a significant improvement in asset quality, with gross non performing loans falling 22.2% to KSh108.4 billion.
The results reinforce Equity Group’s strategy of building a diversified financial services franchise across Africa. Its balance sheet expanded strongly during the period, with total assets rising 19.8% to KSh2.16 trillion, while customer deposits increased 21.4% to KSh1.59 trillion and net loans grew 18.9% to KSh981 billion. The group has operations across Kenya and several East and Central African markets, giving it multiple sources of growth beyond its home market.
For investors, the latest performance signals continued momentum for one of East Africa’s largest banking groups. The combination of stronger revenue, lower credit losses and disciplined cost growth could provide further room for expansion as Equity pursues opportunities across Africa, while the improving quality of its loan book strengthens its capacity to support additional lending and investment.
