Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc Reports 23.8% Decline in Q4 Income to N16.34 Billion

Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc, a Nigerian financial holding company and its subsidiary, recorded a profit of N16.34 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, representing a 23.8% decline from N21.44 billion in the same period in 2024. The unaudited interim financial statement for the period ending December 31, 2025, revealed a drop in quarterly profit primarily due to higher credit loss expenses and rising operating costs.

Despite a growth in interest and trade income, the group's interest income in Q4 rose by 53.8% to N107.14 billion from N69.66 billion in Q4 2024. However, this gain was offset by a sharp rise in credit loss expenses, with financial assets surging to N18.67 billion, a 415% increase year-on-year.

Operating expenses, including personnel and administrative costs, rose to N55.15 billion in Q4 2025, a 50.8% increase from Q4 2024, further squeezing margins. The company reported earnings per share of 157 kobo compared to 151 kobo in the same period last year, reflecting a strong contribution from operational trade income streams.