…Strengthens Growth Path on Solid Fundamentals
Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”) has sustained its growth momentum, projecting gross earnings of N149.27 billion for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2025.
This forecast builds on the Group’s strong performance in the first half of the year, when profit after tax rose by 157 percent, gross earnings climbed 39.7 percent to N212.61 billion, and earnings per share grew to 89 kobo from 56 kobo. Together, these results reflect a robust year-to-date trajectory, reinforcing profitability and strengthening investor confidence in the Group’s long-term outlook.
According to filings on the Nigerian Exchange, Sterling HoldCo expects: Interest income: N116.73 billion, Interest expenses: N42.88 billion, Net revenue from funds: N73.85 billion, Credit impairment charges: N16.84 billion, Other income: N28.37 billion and Net operating income: N85.37 billion.
Operating expenses are projected at N67.24 billion, leaving a profit before tax of N18.13 billion. After accounting for an estimated tax of N1.88 billion, profit after tax is expected to reach N16.25 billion for the quarter.
Sterling’s cash flow outlook underscores the strength of its balance sheet. The Group projects: N13.56 billion in net cash generated from operating activities, N266.16 billion in financing inflows, N187.93 billion from investing activities.
This is expected to deliver a net increase of N91.79 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with the closing cash and bank balance rising to N549.90 billion by year-end, compared to N458.11 billion at the start of the quarter.
These forecasts build on Sterling HoldCo’s earlier results, reflecting sustained momentum, supported by disciplined cost management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth.
Beyond financial performance, the outlook also highlights the Group’s broader impact agenda. Sterling HoldCo is positioned to channel its financial strength into supporting key growth sectors of the Nigerian economy, driving innovation, and creating value for shareholders, customers, and communities.
The Group noted that its ability to generate strong operating cashflows while maintaining significant liquidity provides a foundation for resilience. This ensures that Sterling HoldCo is well-placed to deliver shareholder value while advancing Nigeria’s economic progress.
These projections are forward-looking and based on current assumptions about market conditions and regulatory developments. Actual results may differ materially.