Access Bank Botswana reported a 20% decline in profit to P79.9 million for the year ended December 2025, as higher credit impairments and rising funding costs weighed on earnings despite growth in non-interest income.
Total net revenue slipped 2% to P649.1 million, as a 12% increase in non-interest income—driven by a 117% surge in trading revenue and stronger digital activity, was offset by an 11% decline in net interest income amid margin pressure.
Profit before tax fell 23% to P103.6 million, reflecting a sharp increase in impairment charges to over P80 million, more than double the prior year, highlighting the impact of a tougher economic environment on asset quality.
Operating expenses rose 4% to P545.6 million, largely due to continued investment in human capital and growth initiatives, although the bank maintained cost discipline in other areas to support long-term expansion.
The balance sheet strengthened, with total assets rising 7% to P10.8 billion, supported by robust loan growth, while customer deposits increased 3% as the bank optimised funding in a constrained liquidity environment.
Capital adequacy remained strong at 19.7%, well above regulatory requirements, despite a slight decline from the previous year, positioning the bank to support future growth.
Management said it remains focused on digital innovation and customer-centric growth, highlighting the rollout of its Primus+ platform and continued investment in technology as key drivers of future performance despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges.