Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Limited Posts Strong Financial Performance in 9M 2024, Achieves 20% Growth in Profit-Before-Tax
Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Limited (SCBPL) has reported a robust financial performance for the first nine months of calendar year 2024, with a 20 percent year-on-year growth in profit-before-tax, reaching Rs. 75.5 billion. The profit-after-tax climbed to Rs. 32.5 billion, marking a 3.52 percent increase over the same period in 2023.
The Bank’s total revenue saw a significant 16 percent increase year-on-year, with all segments contributing positively. Despite an 18 percent rise in operating expenses, largely driven by inflationary pressures, SCBPL maintained an industry-leading cost-to-income ratio of 18 percent.
A prudent risk management approach led to lower impairments, contributing to a net release of Rs. 1.8 billion in the period, compared to a net charge of Rs. 615 million in 9M 2023. This was further supported by recoveries of previously written-off debts.
On the liabilities front, SCBPL’s total deposits surged to Rs. 842 billion, an increase of Rs. 123 billion since the beginning of the year. Current accounts registered a 9 percent increase, adding Rs. 33 billion and now accounting for 47 percent of the total deposit base. However, net advances on the asset side declined by Rs. 25 billion, down 11 percent since the start of the year.
Investing in digital capabilities remains a priority for SCBPL as it enhances its client banking experience through innovative, scalable digital solutions. The Bank has upgraded its core banking infrastructure, which will enable it to serve mass-market retail clients more efficiently with data-driven insights and a seamless digital experience.
Rehan Shaikh, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Limited, commented on the Bank’s performance, saying, “I am incredibly proud of our team’s unwavering dedication, which delivered outstanding results in Q3 2024. This achievement reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence in every aspect – elevating customer experiences and driving meaningful growth. I am thankful to our shareholders, clients, and business partners for their continued trust in our capabilities. Together, we are setting new benchmarks for success.”
The Bank reported a strong Return on Equity (ROE) of 43.3 percent and a Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 22.9 percent, reinforcing its stable position for future growth.
SCBPL’s performance has also been recognized by the CFA Society, receiving the “Best Bank 2023” award in the Mid-Sized Banks category and the “Gender Diversity at Workplace” award.
In addition to financial success, SCBPL has expanded its commitment to social impact initiatives. The SC Women in Tech Programme aims to address gender disparity in the tech sector, while the Goal Accelerator Programme seeks to empower disadvantaged girls and young women through sports and economic resilience initiatives. SCBPL also launched the Seventh Youth League – Football Tournament in partnership with Karachi United to promote sports among children.
With these milestones, Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Limited is poised for sustained growth, supported by a blend of strong financials, strategic investments, and community-driven initiatives.