Co-op Bank: We achieved Ksh26.8 Billion Profit before Tax in Q3 2024

The Co-operative Bank Group is pleased to announce its financial results for Q3 2024, highlighting a resilient and upward growth trajectory.

Driven by the “Soaring Eagle” Transformation Agenda, the Group reported a Profit Before Tax of Ksh 26.8 billion, an 8.5% increase from Ksh 24.7 billion in Q3 2023.

This reflects a Profit After Tax of Ksh 19.2 billion compared to Ksh 18.4 billion in the same period last year and a competitive Return on Equity of 21.3%.

Mr. Geoffrey Omondi, County Commissioner Isiolo County, joins Co-op Bank customers and staff to open the new Narumoru branch.

Key Performance Highlights

1. Financial Position

The Group achieved substantial growth in its financial position, reflecting the positive impact of its strategic approach:

Total Assets grew by 13.5%, reaching Ksh 750.8 billion, compared to Ksh 661.3 billion in Q3 2023.

Net Loans and Advances increased to Ksh 381.3 billion from Ksh 378.1 billion last year.

Customer Deposits saw an 18.7% rise to Ksh 514.0 billion, up from Ksh 432.8 billion.

External Funding from development partners was reported at Ksh 58.0 billion, compared to Ksh 65.6 billion in 2023.

Shareholders’ Funds rose significantly by 22% to Ksh 131.8 billion, driven by strong retained earnings of Ksh 16.3 billion.

2. Comprehensive Income

The Group’s income portfolio also showed commendable growth:

  • Total Operating Income expanded by 10.8%, moving from Ksh 53.4 billion to Ksh 59.2 billion.
  • Non-Interest Income grew by 8.2%, reaching Ksh 22.3 billion from Ksh 20.6 billion.
  • Net Interest Income increased by 12.3%, rising from Ksh 32.8 billion to Ksh 36.9 billion.
  • Total Operating Expenses recorded a controlled growth of 12.7%, totaling Ksh 32.7 billion.

3. Cost Management

Co-op Bank continued to achieve efficiency gains, reporting a Cost-to-Income Ratio of 45.8% in Q3 2024, significantly improved from the 59% recorded in FY 2014 when the Growth & Efficiency journey began.

4. Digital Transformation and Customer Engagement

The Group leveraged its digital transformation strategy to achieve a high rate of digital transactions:

  • A new core banking system, based on the latest version of Finacle, enhances service delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Over 93% of customer transactions are now processed through digital channels, including a robust 24-hour contact center, 603 ATMs & CDMs, mobile and internet banking, and a network of over 16,000 Co-op kwa Jirani agents.
  • The Omni-channel platform ensures a seamless customer experience across personal computers, mobile devices, and USSD channels.
  • MCo-op Cash Mobile wallet continues to drive substantial non-funded income, disbursing Ksh 55.7 billion in loans in Q3 2024, averaging Ksh 6.2 billion per month.
  • The Bank has empowered MSMEs, with over 231,200 clients enrolled in its MSME packages since 2018 and Ksh 11 billion disbursed through the Mobile E-Credit solution in 2024.

5. Branch Network Expansion

The Group maintains a strong and growing presence across Kenya and South Sudan, with a total of 204 branches, including five in South Sudan.

This year, eight new branches have opened domestically, including locations in Nairobi’s Imaara Mall, Ugunja, Luanda, Isibania, Maai Mahiu, Dagoretti Market, Marimanti, and Ruiru Nord Mall.

Kingdom Bank also inaugurated its 22nd branch in Meru County, while Co-operative Bank of South Sudan added a fifth branch in Wau.

6. Growing Team

Co-op Bank’s commitment to growth extends to its staffing levels, with personnel increasing from 4,864 in 2022 to 5,617 by Q3 2024, creating over 753 new job opportunities, particularly for young professionals.

7. Subsidiary Performance

The Group’s subsidiaries also performed exceptionally well:

  • Co-op Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd achieved a Profit Before Tax of Ksh 824.3 million, driven by strong Bancassurance penetration.
  • Co-operative Bank of South Sudan, a joint venture with the Government of South Sudan, recorded Ksh 434.7 million in Profit Before Tax. Adjusted for hyperinflation, this amounted to Ksh 33.8 million.
  • Co-op Trust Investment Services Ltd showed a 65% growth in Profit Before Tax to Ksh 254.9 million, with funds under management totaling Ksh 299.6 billion.
  • Kingdom Bank Ltd, a niche MSME bank, reported an 18.1% growth in Profit Before Tax, reaching Ksh 929.2 million in Q3 2024.

8. Commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact

In line with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, Co-op Bank has taken active steps toward climate resilience:

Co-op Bank supports industry climate initiatives, including IFRS S1 & S2 and Green Finance Taxonomy, through capacity building.

Through a Climate Risk Project aligned with SDG 13, the Bank is formulating a Climate Strategy Roadmap and Implementation Plan.

The new Co-op-a-Maji Loan, in partnership with Water.org, provides funding to the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector, fostering access to safe water and sanitation.

Co-op Bank Foundation has provided scholarships to 11,703 talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds since its inception, covering both secondary and university education, internships, and career support.

Conclusion

Co-op Bank Group’s performance in Q3 2024 reaffirms its position as a resilient and forward-looking financial institution.

Leveraging a diversified universal banking model, a robust digital strategy, and its unique co-operative network, Co-op Bank remains committed to creating value for shareholders and stakeholders alike.

Co-op Bank achieves Nine billion Profit (Before Tax) between January and April 2024

Co-op Bank is pleased to report a Profit Before Tax of Kshs.9.01B for Q1 2024, a commendable 10.6% growth compared to Kshs. 8.15B recorded in Quarter 12023.

This represents a Profit after Tax of Kshs.6.5B compared to Kshs.6.11B reported in 2023.

The strong performance by the Bank is in line with the Group’s strategic focus on sustainable growth, resilience and agility.

Key Performance highlights:

Financial Position

The Group has registered strong growth as follows:

  • Total Assets grew to Kshs.714.7B, a 13.2% growth from Kshs631.1B in the same period last year.
  • Net loans and advances grew to Kshs.378.1B, a 5% growth from Kshs.360.1B in 2023.
  • Customer deposits grew to Kshs.481.8B, a 14.8% increase from Kshs. 419.8B.
  • External funds from development partners grew to Kshs.60.1B from Kshs.48.4B in 2023.
  • Shareholders’ funds have grown to Kshs.127.1B, a 12.9% increase from Kshs.112.6B in 2023.

Comprehensive Income

  • Total operating income grew by 5.1% from Kshs.17.9B to Kshs.18.8 B.
  • Total non-interest income remained stable to stand at Kshs.7.1B similar to performance recorded a year ago.
  • Net interest income grew by 8.6% from Kshs 10.8B to Kshs 11.7B in 2023.
  • Total operating expenses increased marginally by 0.5% from Kshs 9.8B to Kshs.9.9B.

Cost Management

The Group reports excellent efficiency gains from the various intiatives to record a Cost-to-Income Ratio of 44.1% in Q12024 from 59% in FY2014 when we began our Growth & Efficiency journey.

A Strong Digital Footprint

A New Core Banking System, presenting opportunity for growth and enhanced efficiency.

  • The Bank continues to leverage the new core banking system (latest version of Finacle from Infosys, one of the best-rated platforms globally), to support the Group’s digital synergy.
  • The system will further enhance service excellence and provide innovative and advanced banking solutions.
  • Through our digital channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved over 93% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels, a 24-hour contact centre, 605 ATMs & Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs), mobile & internet banking and over 16,000 network of Co-op kwa Jirani agents.
  • Our Omni-channel platform continues to offer users accessibility and enhanced experience. The platform interfaces online banking through personal computers, mobile phones and USSD availing our services to all customers through their preferred channel yet retain the same user experience from wherever they are.
  • MCo-op Cash Mobile wallet continues to drive substantial non-funded income streams with Kshs18.1B in loans disbursed in Q12024, averaging Kshs.6.0B per month.
  • Over 214,000 customers have taken up the MSME packages we rolled out in 2018, and 60,850 have been trained on business management skills. In Q12024, we disbursed Kshs.3.9B to MSMEs through our Mobile E-Credit solution.
  • MSMEs make up 15.6% of our total Loan Book.

Our unique model of retail banking services avails access to cash for FOSA operations, enabling 484 FOSA outlets to support over 15M Sacco members access banking services even in rural/remote areas.

Wide and Expanding Branch Network

The Branch network has expanded to a total of 195 outlets (4 in South Sudan). We have planned 15 additional outlets in 2024 – with 2 at lmaara Mall on Mombasa Road-Nairobi and Ugunja in Siaya already opened.

Our Subsidiary, Kingdom Bank, opened a new Branch in Gikomba, aligning perfectly with the Bank’s strategic vision to serve markets where Kingdom Bank has niche expertise notably MSMEs.

A Growing Team

The Bank continues to invest in a competitive team set to serve existing functions at the same time tap new growth opportunities across all areas of the business.

Staff numbers have grown from 4,864 as at the close of 2022 to 5,361 – creating job opportunities for over 497young people.

Subsidiaries

  • Co-op Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd posted a Profit Before Tax of Kshs.305M in Q12024, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.
  • Co-operative Bank of South Sudan that is a unique joint venture (JV) partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) made a Profit BeforeTax of Kshs.128.5M in Q12024 compared to a loss of Kshs.71.4M in Q12023.
  • Co-op Trust Investment Services Ltd contributed Kshs.75.5M Profit Before Tax in Q12024 compared to Kshs.51.2M in Q12023, a 47.6% growth. The Subsidiary has Funds Under Management of Kshs.227.2B.
  • Kingdom Bank Limited (AnicheMSME Bank) contributed a Profit Before Tax of Kshs.350.3M in Q12024, a remarkable growth of 33.9% fromKshs.261.5M reported in Q12023.

Long Term Financing: Women-owned/managed MSMEs

The Bank has secured a long-term loan of $25M from DEG – a subsidiary of KfW Group, for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that are managed or owned by women.

This is aligned to the Bank’s contribution to the achievementof the global Sustainable DevelopmentGoals (SDGs).

Commitment to Sustainability

In 2022, the Bank embarked on an enhanced Environmental, Social and Governance(ESG) road map to integrate ESG considerations into its operations with several key milestones achieved.

The Bank’s commitment to ESG excellence was celebrated at the 2023 Kenya Bankers’ Sustainable Finance Catalyst Awards, with the bank emerging as the Overall Award Winner.

This was the fourth win by the Bank since the inception of the award six years ago.

Co-op Bank Foundation, the Group’s social investment vehicle, continues to provide Scholarships to gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya.

The sponsorship includes fully paid secondary education, full fees for University education,Internships,and career openingsfor beneficiaries.

The foundation is fully funded by the bank and has supported 10,264 students since the inception of the program.

Conclusion

The Co-operative Bank Group continues to pursue strategic initiatives that focus on resilience and growth in the various economic sectors.

This is anchored on a successful universal banking model supported by an innovative digital presence, a wide physical footprint, and the unique synergies in the over15-million-member co-operative movement that is the largest in Africa.

We are you.

Co-op Bank emerges Winner at 2023 Top Sustainable Finance Awards with a Q3 Profit of Ksh24.7 Billion

Co-op Bank Group is pleased to report a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 24.7 Billion for the third quarter of 2023, representing an 8.6% growth compared to Kshs. 22.7 Billion recorded in the third quarter of 2022.

This represents a Profit after Tax of Kshs. 18.4 Billion compared to Kshs. 17.1 Billion reported in 2022.

The strong performance by the Bank is in line with the Group’s strategic focus on sustainable growth, resilience, and agility.

Sustainable Finance Award

Co-op Bank has been named Overall Winner at the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) 2023 Sustainable Finance Catalyst Awards.

This is the fourth time in six years that Co-op Bank has been named overall winner, having also won the overall title in 2017, 2019 and last year 2022.

In addition to scooping the overall title, Co-op Bank also won in specific award categories that include being named as the Most Innovative Bank, Best in Financing Commercial Clients, Best in Promoting Gender Inclusivity, and the Best in Promoting Accessibility for People with Disabilities (PWD).

Key Q32023 Performance highlights:

Financial Position: The Group has registered sustained growth as follows;

Total Assets grew to Kshs. 661.3 Billion, a 6.3% growth from Kshs 622.1 Billion in the same period last year.

Net loans and advances grew to Kshs. 378.1 Billion, a 12.8% growth from Kshs.335.2 Billion in 2022.

Customer deposits grew to Kshs 432.8 Billion, a 0.2% increase from Kshs. 432.0 Billion. External funds from development partners have increased by 56.5% to Kshs.65.6 Billion from Kshs. 41.9 Billion in 2022.

Shareholders’ funds have grown to Kshs. 108.1 Billion, a 7.1% increase from Kshs. 100.9 Billion in 2022.

Comprehensive Income

Total operating income grew by 2.3% from Kshs. 52.2 Billion to Kshs. 53.4 Billion.

Net interest income grew by 2.5% from Kshs 32.0 Billion to Kshs 32.8 Billion.

Total non-interest income grew by 2.1% from Kshs. 20.2 Billion to Kshs. 20.6 Billion.

Total operating expenses decreased by 2.1% from Kshs. 29.6 Billion to Kshs. 29.0 Billion.

Cost Management

The Group reports excellent efficiency gains from the various initiatives to record a Cost-to-Income Ratio of 46.4% in Q32023 from 59% in FY2014 when we began our Growth & Efficiency journey.

Credit Management remains a key focus area, with the Group prudentially making provisions of Kshs. 4.2 Billion which has supported the Bank’s Loan Loss Reserve/Coverage level of 69.1%.

A Strong Digital Footprint

The Bank successfully upgraded the core banking system to the latest version of Finacle from Infosys, which was rated globally as the top core banking system in 2022 by Gartner.

Through our digital channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved 91% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels, a 24-hour contact centre, 608 ATMs & Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs), mobile & internet banking and over 18,000 network of Co-op kwa Jirani agents.

We have successfully migrated our customers to the Omni-channel, integrating accessibility and user experience that interfaces online banking through personal computers, mobile phones and USSD.

MCo-op Cash Mobile wallet continues to drive substantial non-funded income streams with 5 Million customers registered and Kshs 59.4 Billion in loans disbursed year to date, averaging Kshs. 6.6 Billion per month.

Over 193,000 customers have taken up the MSME packages we rolled out in 2018, and 42,413 have been trained on business management skills.

Year to date, we have disbursed Kshs. 15.9 Billion to MSMEs through our Mobile E-Credit solution. MSMEs make up 15.5% of our total Loan Book.

Our unique model of retail banking services avails access to cash for FOSA operations, enabling 484 FOSA outlets to support over 15 million Sacco members access banking services even in rural/remote areas.

Expanding Branch Network

The Bank has grown the branch network to 193 (4 in South Sudan). Eight (8) new Branches (Nakuru Bahati Road, Kimana, Matuu, Thika Kwame Nkrumah, Greenwood Mall – Meru, Kenol Makuyu, Hindi – Lamu and Bamburi – Mombasa) opened in 2023, whereas 5 Branches (Kabarnet, Iten, Kasarani, Kamakis and Chwele) opened last year.

Subsidiaries

Co-op Consultancy & Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd posted a Profit Before Tax of Kshs 762.9 Million in Q32023, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.
Co-operative Bank of South Sudan that is a unique joint venture (JV) partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) made a Profit before tax of Kshs 246.9 Million in Q32023.

Co-op Trust Investment Services Ltd contributed Kshs. 154.5 Million Profit Before Tax in Q32023, a 9.6% growth. The Subsidiary has Funds Under Management of Kshs. 196 Billion (Q32023).

Kingdom Bank Limited (A niche MSME Bank) has contributed a Profit before Tax of Kshs. 786.6 Million in Q32023, a remarkable growth of 24.8% from Kshs. 630.2 Million reported last year.

Environmental Social & Governance (ESG) Practice

The Bank continues to implement a best-in-class ESG policy framework supported by an ESG implementation roadmap, groupwide ESG champions and ESG Governance.

The Bank has invested in a unique forest rehabilitation project at “Solio Hill, Laikipia”; this is a partnership with the local community under the Community Forest Association and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) that has so far planted over 250,000 purely indigenous trees at the 600-acre government forest.

Co-op Bank Foundation, the Group’s social investment vehicle, continues to provide Scholarships to 10,264 gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya.

Accolades

2023 Sustainable Finance Catalyst Award

Co-op Bank has emerged Overall Winner at this year’s Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) Sustainable Finance Catalyst Awards.

This is the fourth time in six years that Co-op Bank has been named overall winner, having also won the overall title in 2017, 2019 and last year 2022.

Commenting on the Award, the Group Managing Director & CEO, Dr. Gideon Muriuki said;

“Sustainability is fully integrated in our business model that stands on the three pillars of Economic Sustainability, Social Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship.”

“As a Bank that is predominantly-owned by the 15 million-member Co-operative Movement that is represented in all regions of the country, we are inclusive by design, which has enabled us to not only deliver shared prosperity today, but also helped us build an awareness and prudence to avoid participation in activities that risk putting future generations in jeopardy.”

2023 IFC Global SME Awards

Co-op Bank was awarded the SME Financier of the year in Africa – Gold Award at the Global SME Finance Awards 2023.

The Awards recognize financial institutions and fintech companies for their outstanding achievements in delivering exceptional products and services to their SME clients.

TAB Global – The Middle East and Africa Awards 2023

Co-op Bank and Intellect Global Consumer Banking were awarded Best Omnichannel Technology Implementation by TAB Global (The Middle East and Africa Awards 2023).

The Awards recognize leadership in retail financial services, technology, risk and transaction finance in the Middle East and Africa.

Conclusion

The Group continues to pursue strategic initiatives that focus on resilience and growth in the various economic sectors.

This is anchored on a successful universal banking model supported by an innovative digital presence, a wide physical footprint, and the unique synergies in the over 15-million-member co-operative movement that is the largest in Africa.

Co-op Bank marks 38% Profit Growth with Ksh22.7 Billion Profits Before Tax in 3rd Quarter

Co-op Bank Group is pleased to report a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 22.7 Billion for the third quarter of 2022.

That’s a commendable 38% growth compared to Kshs. 16.5 Billion recorded in the third quarter of 2021.

This means, Co-op Bank has a strong Profit after Tax of Kshs. 17.1 Billion compared to Kshs. 11.6 Billion reported in 2021. The performance delivers a competitive Return on Equity of 23% to our shareholders.

The strong performance by the Bank is in line with the Group’s strategic focus on sustainable growth, resilience, and agility.

Support to the Fundraising Appeal to Fight Hunger

Co-op Bank Group wishes to join other Kenyans and indeed the global community of goodwill in fully supporting the Fundraising Appeal initiated by His Excellency the President, with a key contribution of Kshs.150 Million.

This is in support of relief efforts aimed at assisting families affected by the severe drought ravaging various parts of the Country.

Key Performance highlights;
1. Financial Position:

The Group has registered sustained growth as follows;

  • Total Assets grew to Kshs. 622.1 Billion, a 5% growth from Kshs 592.9 Billion in the same period last year.
  • Net loans and advances grew to Kshs. 335.2 Billion, a 9.4% growth from Kshs.306.3 Billion in 2021.
  • Customer deposits grew to Kshs 432.0 Billion, a 3% increase from Kshs.420.4 Billion.
  • External funds from development partners stands at Kshs 41.9 Billion from Kshs.43.8 Billion in 2021.
  • Shareholders’ funds have grown to Kshs. 100.9 Billion, a 6.2% increase from Kshs. 95.0 Billion in 2021.

2. Comprehensive Income

This is a 3-pronged approach:

  • Total operating income grew by 17.6% from Kshs 44.4 Billion to Kshs 52.2 Billion.
    Total non-interest income grew by 28.3% from Kshs 15.7 Billion to Kshs 20.2 Billion.
  • Net interest income grew by 11.7% from Kshs 28.7 Billion to Kshs 32.00 Billion.
  • Total operating expenses increased by 6% from Kshs 28.0 Billion to Kshs. 29.6 Billion.

3. Cost Management

Excellent gains from our various initiatives with a Cost to Income ratio of 45.8% in Q32022 from 59% in FY2014 when we began our Growth & Efficiency journey.

4. Credit Management

This remains a key focus area that has achieved key milestones. The Group prudentially provided Kshs. 5.7 Billion compared to Kshs 6.0 billion provided in 2021, pointing to an improvement in the quality of the asset book.

5. A Strong Digital Footprint

Through our digital channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved 94% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels, a 24-hour contact centre, mobile banking, 550 ATMs, internet banking and a wide network of Co-op kwa Jirani agents.

We have successfully migrated our customers to the Omni-channel, integrating accessibility and user experience.

Our omnichannel interfaces online banking through personal computers, mobile phones and USSD availing our services to all customers through their preferred channel yet retain the same experience from wherever they are.

6. Subsidiaries

A great part of the success story arises from subsidiaries across the region:

  • Co-op Consultancy & Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd posted a Profit Before Tax of Kshs 772 Million in Q32022, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.
  • Co-operative Bank of South Sudan that is a unique joint venture (JV) partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) returned a profit of Kshs 190 Million in Q32022 compared to a loss of Kshs.104 million in Q32021.
  • Co-op Trust Investment Services contributed Kshs. 141 Million in Profit Before Tax in Q32022, with Funds Under Management of Kshs. 202.6 Billion compared to Kshs.187.1 Billion in September 2021.
  • Kingdom Bank Limited (A Niche MSME Bank) has contributed a Profit before Tax of Kshs.609.2 Million in Q32022 compared to Kshs. 413.1 Million reported last year representing a 47% Growth year-on-year.
    Environmental Social and Governance (ESG).

The Group was named Overall Winner at the Kenya Bankers Association Catalyst Awards held in September 2022.

The awards recognize organizations that exemplify their sustainability prowess though promoting catalytic finance that impacts industry, economy and society.

This latest win is the third in five years, having won in 2017 and 2019, ranking Co-op Bank as Industry Leader in Sustainable Finance in Kenya.

Co-op Bank Foundation, the Group’s social investment vehicle, continues to provide Scholarships to gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya. The sponsorship includes fully paid secondary education, full fees for University education, Internships and career openings for beneficiaries.

The foundation is fully funded by the bank and has supported 9553 students since the inception of the program.

7. Accolades

The Group Managing Director & CEO Dr. Gideon Muriuki was honoured with the award of a third Doctorate degree by the Africa International University in November 2022.

The Citation for the degree award noted his illustrious career in banking, his historic turnaround of Co-op Bank, his destiny-defining contribution to the co-operative movement and an enduring commitment to sustainable finance in Africa.

Breakdown of Co-op Bank’s virtual 14th Annual General Meeting

Co-operative Bank of Kenya today virtual held its 14th Annual General Meeting.

This is the third time the meeting has been held virtually following amendments to the law governing annual general meetings, following the Covid-19 epidemic.

Co-op Bank Group Managing Director Gideon Muriuki during the virtual meeting

The overwhelmingly successful meeting was attended by over 16,000 shareholders from across the globe.

Shareholders welcomed the dividend payment scheduled to hit their accounts on 17Th June 2022.

The shareholders were appreciative of the Board of Directors’ divided policy that balances between the need for additional capital and shareholders immediate interest for earnings.

They particularly commended the Group Board for the kes 100billion retained earnings the bank has accumulated for future growth through this policy.

Kingdom Bank – one of the best performing Co-op Bank’s subsidiaries.

Speaking at the meeting the Group Managing Director, Dr. Gideon Muriuki pointed out to the shareholders that the bank was confident of a good performance in 2022 full year.

The MD estimated that the bank will surpass the over 22Billion profit registered in 2021, “ already in the first quarter of 2022 the bank has registered a profit before tax of kes 7.8Billion which is an indication of better days ahead.”

The meeting was chaired by the Bank Chairman Mr. John Murugu and was also attended by the Vice Chairman Mr. Macloud Malonza among other board members who attend virtually.

Co-op Banks records a 56% Growth with Ksh7.7B Profit in First Quarter

Co-op Bank Group is pleased to report a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 7.78 Billion for the first quarter of 2022, a commendable 56% growth compared to Kshs. 4.98 Billion recorded in the first quarter of 2021.

This represents a strong Profit after Tax of Kshs. 5.8 Billion compared to Kshs. 3.5 Billion reported in 2021. The performance delivers a competitive Return on Equity of 23.8% to our shareholders.

The strong performance by the Bank is in line with the Group’s strategic focus on sustainable growth, resilience, and agility.

Key highlights;

Financial Position: The Group has registered sustained growth as follows;

Total Assets grew to Kshs. 597.0 Billion, a +8% growth from Kshs 552.9 Billion in the same period last year.

Net loans and advances grew to Kshs. 324.5 Billion, a +9% growth from Kshs.298.2 Billion.

Investment in Government securities grew to Kshs. 183.4 Billion, a +10% rise from Kshs. 166.2 Billion in 2021.

Customer deposits grew to Kshs 410.8 Billion, a +4% increase from Kshs. 393.8 Billion.

External funds from development partners stood at Kshs 43.3 Billion from Kshs.46.9 Billion in 2021.

Shareholders’ funds grew to Kshs. 102.7 Billion, a +10% increase from Kshs. 93.7 Billion in 2021 enabling us to continue pitching for big ticket deals.

Comprehensive Income

Total operating income grew by 17% from Kshs 14.4 Billion to Kshs 16.8 Billion.

Total non-interest income grew by 41.7% from Kshs 4.5 Billion to Kshs 6.4 Billion.

Net interest income grew by 6% from Kshs 9.8 Billion to Kshs 10.4 Billion.

Total operating expenses declined by 3% from Kshs 9.3 Billion to Kshs. 9.0 Billion.

Cost Management

Excellent gains from our various initiatives with a Cost Income ratio of 44.6% in Q12022 from 59% in FY2014 when we began our Growth & Efficiency journey.

Credit Management remains a key focus area by way of the following interventions;

The Credit Risk Adaptation Project dubbed ‘Project Kilele’ supported by a Global consulting firm, now in the implementation phase.

The Decentralization of Loan Portfolio Management to the Branches, Lending Units and Relationship Management teams. The successful project, aimed at enhancing collection activities, has advanced to Project Connect & Build (CB). The project is aimed at:
Identifying more business opportunities for loan book growth.

Engaging existing & potential customers with a view to establishing/enhancing their needs and co-create solutions.

Increasing customers’ product holding.

Sustaining the best practices learnt under the Decentralization of Loan Portfolio Management and Project Kilele above.

The Group prudentially provided Kshs. 1.5 Billion compared to Kshs 2.3 billion provided in 2021 indicating improving quality of our asset book as businesses and households continue to recover from the impact of Covid-19 pandemic.

Our Gross Non-Performing Loan (NPL) Book has reduced by 5% from last year, with our NPL ratio improving to 13.3% against 15.2% in a similar period last year. This affirms our Credit Quality and Growth strategies and will continue to improve to single digit pre-pandemic NPL levels.

A Strong Digital Footprint

Through our digital channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved 94% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels, an expanded 24-hour contact centre, mobile banking, 541 ATMs, internet banking and over 27,000 Co-op Kwa Jirani agency banking terminals.

We have successfully migrated our customers to the Omni-channel, integrating accessibility and user experience. Our omnichannel interfaces online banking through personal computers, mobile phones and USSD availing our services to all customers through their preferred channel yet retain the same experience from wherever they are.

A successful Universal Banking model and the implementation of Sales Force Effectiveness has seen the Group serve 9 million Account holders across all sectors.

Key focus on digital banking, with the all-telco Mco-op Cash Mobile Wallet continuing to play a pivotal role in the growth of non-funded income with 5 Million customers registered and loans worth Kshs 19.9 Billion disbursed year-to-date, averaging over Kshs. 6.6 Billion per month.
Over 151,500 customers have taken up the MSME packages that we rolled out in 2018, and 23,363 have been trained on business management skills.

Year to date, we have disbursed Kshs. 4.3 Billion to MSMEs through our Mobile E-Credit solution. MSMEs are a critical part of economic recovery post-covid and contribute up to 16% of our total Loan Book.

Our unique model of retail banking services through Sacco FOSAs enabled us provide wholesale financial services to over 464 FOSA outlets.

Subsidiaries

Co-op Consultancy & Bancassurance Intermediary Ltd posted a Profit Before Tax of Kshs 316.9 Million as at 31st March 2022, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.

Co-operative Bank of South Sudan that is a unique joint venture (JV) partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) returned a profit of Kshs 43.9 Million in Q12022 compared to a loss of Kshs 89.1 million in Q12021.

Co-op Trust Investment Services contributed Kshs. 53.7 Million in Profit Before Tax in Q12022, with Funds Under Management of Kshs. 190.2 Billion compared to Kshs. 128.4 Billion in March 2021.

Kingdom Bank Limited (A Niche MSME Bank) has contributed a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 199.3 Million in Q12022 compared Kshs. 126.7 Million reported last year representing a 57% Growth year on year.

Long Term Financing: MSME, Sustainable Agriculture & Health sectors.

In 2020 the Group secured a long-term financing facility from the IFC (International Finance Corporation) amounting to Kshs. 8.25 Billion for on-lending at affordable terms to MSMEs involved notably in climate-smart projects, sustainable agricultural practices, and clean energy.

Partnered in the US$ 300 million IFC-led Africa Medical Equipment Facility and Philips (a leading health technology company) to support Africa’s health sector operators purchase essential medical equipment and strengthen their response to COVID-19 and other medical technology needs.

The Group secured a US$ 10 Million credit line in partnership with Eco.business Fund to finance Sustainable Agriculture.

Environmental Social and Governance (ESG)
The Bank has a dedicated ESG Unit that will see the enhancement of our ESG strategies as we take up emerging opportunities and manage ESG risks.

ESG remains a critical pillar of our strategic focus and the Group is determined to make positive contributions to the Economy, Society and Environment.

Co-operative Bank Foundation, a key social investment vehicle, has provided Scholarships to gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya.

The sponsorship includes fully paid secondary education, full fees for University education, Internships, and career openings for beneficiaries.

The foundation is fully funded by the bank and has supported 8,368 students since the inception of the program.

Conclusion

The Co-operative Bank Group continues to execute a proactive mitigation strategy anchored on a strong enterprise risk management framework, to enable uninterrupted access to banking services.

We shall, riding on the unique synergies in the over 15 million-member co-operative movement that is the largest in Africa, continue to pursue strategic initiatives that focus on resilience and growth in the various sectors as the economy continues to recover.

Co-op Bank declares Ksh11.6 billion as profits for the third quarter

Co-op Bank Group is pleased to report a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 16.5 Billion for the third quarter of 2021, a commendable 20% growth compared to Kshs. 13.8 Billion recorded in the third quarter of 2020.

This represents a strong Profit After Tax of Kshs.11.6 billion compared to Kshs. 9.8 Billion reported in third quarter of 2020.

The strong performance by the Bank exceeds pre-pandemic performance and is in line with the Group’s strategic focus that supports growth, resilience and agility.

Co-op Bank Group Managing Director Gideon Muriuki during a past press conference (file image)

Key highlights; –

Financial Position; The Group has registered sustained growth as hereunder;

Total Assets grew by Kshs 82 Billion (+16%) to Kshs. 592.9 Billion compared to Kshs 510.9 Billion in the same period last year.

Net loans and advances book grew by Kshs 22.1 Billion (+7.8%) from Kshs.284.2 Billion to Kshs. 306.3 Billion.

Customer deposits grew by 12% from Kshs. 375.5 Billion to Kshs 420.4 Billion.

Borrowed funds grew by Kshs. 17.7 Billion (+67.6%) to Kshs 43.8 Billion from Kshs.26.2 Billion in 2020.

Shareholders’ funds grew to Kshs. 95 Billion (+16%) from Kshs. 82.0 Billion in 2020 enabling us to continue pitching for big ticket deals.

Comprehensive Income

Total operating income grew by 19.2% from Kshs 37.2 Billion to Kshs 44.4 Billion.

Total non-interest income grew by 15.6% from Kshs 13.6 Billion to Kshs 15.7 Billion.

Net interest income grew by 21.3% from Kshs 23.6 Billion to Kshs 28.7 Billion.

Total operating expenses grew by 19.2% from Kshs 23.5 Billion to Kshs. 28 Billion on account of a 50% prudential growth in loan-loss provisions.

Credit Management remains a key focus area aimed at supporting a return to pre-pandemic NPL levels by way of the following interventions;-

The Credit Risk Adaptation Project dubbed ‘Project Kilele’ supported by a Global consulting firm, now in the implementation phase.

The Decentralization of Loan Portfolio Management, to the Branches, Lending Units and Relationship Management teams to enhance collection activities.

The Group prudentially increased loan loss provisions to Kshs. 6.0 Billion in the third quarter of year 2021, in appreciation of the challenges that businesses and households continue to face due to the effects of the ongoing pandemic.

A total of Kshs. 49 Billion in loans was restructured during the CBK restructure window that ended on 31st March 2021, with the restructured facilities largely performing as per the realigned agreements.

A Strong Digital Footprint

Through our multi-channel strategy, the Bank has successfully moved 93% of all customer transactions to alternative delivery channels; an expanded 24-hour contact centre, mobile banking, 589 ATMs, internet banking and over 23,000 Co-op Kwa Jirani agency banking terminals.

A successful Universal Banking model and the implementation of Sales Force Effectiveness has seen the Group serve over 9 million Account holders across all sectors.

Key focus on digital banking, with the all-telco Mco-op Cash Mobile Wallet continuing to play a pivotal role in the growth of non-funded income with 5.3 Million customers registered and loans worth Kshs 51.3 Billion disbursed year-to-date, averaging Kshs. 5.7 Billion per month.

Over 139,299 customers have taken up the MSME packages that we rolled out in 2018, and 14,665 have been trained on business management skills.

To date we have disbursed over Kshs. 25 Billion to MSMEs through our E-Credit solution.

Our unique model of retail banking services through Sacco FOSAs enabled us provide wholesale financial services to over 479 FOSA outlets.

Subsidiaries

Co-op Consultancy & Bancassurance Intermediary Limited posted a Profit Before Tax of Kshs 648.0 Million as at 30th September 2021, riding on strong penetration of Bancassurance business.

Co-operative Bank of South Sudan, a joint venture (JV) partnership with Government of South Sudan (Co-op Bank 51% and GOSS 49%) returned a monetary loss of Kshs 104 Million in Q32021 attributable to hyperinflation accounting due to currency devaluation of the South Sudanese pound.

Co-op Trust Investment Services contributed Kshs. 92.3 Million in Profit Before Tax in Q32021, with Funds Under Management standing at Kshs. 187.1 Billion compared to Kshs. 123.7 Billion as at Q32020.

Kingdom Bank Limited (formerly Jamii Bora Bank) has contributed a Profit Before Tax of Kshs. 413 Million in Q32021. This is compared to 2020 full year loss of Kshs. 124 Million.

Co-op Bank holds a controlling 90% equity interest in Kingdom Bank, a fully-fledged commercial bank regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya with over 444,000 customers and 17 branches.

Long Term Financing: MSME, Sustainable Agriculture & Health sectors.

In 2020 the Group secured a long-term financing facility from the IFC (International Finance Corporation) amounting to Kshs. 8.25 Billion for on-lending at affordable terms to MSMEs involved notably in climate-smart projects, sustainable agricultural practices and clean energy.

Partnered in the US$ 300 million IFC-led Africa Medical Equipment Facility and Philips (a leading health technology company) to support Africa’s health sector operators purchase essential medical equipment and strengthen their response to COVID-19 and other medical technology needs.

The Group secured a US$ 10 Million credit line in partnership with Eco.Business Fund to finance Sustainable Agriculture.

Corporate Social investment

Co-op Bank Foundation has provided Scholarships to gifted but needy students from all regions of Kenya.

The sponsorship includes; fully paid secondary education, full fees for University education, Internships and career openings for beneficiaries.

The foundation is fully funded by the bank and has so far supported 8,368 students since the inception of the program.

Co-op Bank’s 2020 third-quarter Report: Kshs. 13.8 billion profit before tax

For the third quarter of 2020, the Co-operative Bank Group has reported a Ksh13.8 billion profit before tax.

This means a staggering Ksh1.7 billion difference compared to Ksh15.5 billion recorded in the third quarter of 2019.

In a press release from the bank, the 11% drop was attributed to increased Covid-19 related loan loss provisions.

Profit after tax was ksh9.8 billion compared to Ksh10.9 billion in the previous year which represented a 10% drop.

“The group has taken a 90% increase in loan loss provision from Ksh2.1 billion in 2019 to Ksh4 billion in appreciation of the challenges that businesses and households are grappling with from the disruption occasioned by the ongoing pandemic.

“We continue to serve our customers to support them through this period by re-aligning the servicing of facilities, funding and transactional needs as the situation unfolds. As at the close of the third quarter, a total of Ksh46 billion in loans have been restructured to support customers impacted by the pandemic,” the company explained.

The bank’s total assets grew by Ksh70 billion to Ksh510 billion compared to Ksh440.8 billion in the same period in 2019.

Net loans and advances books grew by Ksh15.4 billion from Ksh268.9 billion to 284.2 billion.

Investment in government securities grew by Ksh47.7 billion to Ksh142.3 billion in comparison to ksh94.6 billion in the previous year.

Customer deposits grew by 16% from Ksh322.5 billion to Ksh375.5 billion.

Borrowed funds from development partners decreased by Ksh3.6 billion to Ksh26.2 billion from Ksh29.7 billion in 2019.

Shareholders’ funds grew to Ksh82 billion from Ksh73.9 billion in 2019, enabling the bank to continue pitching for big-ticket deals.

Co-operative Bank’s latest acquisition, Kingdom Bank (previously Jamii Bora), is expected to break even in 2021, banking on its over 444,000 customers in 17 branches.

The Co-operative Bank Group has put in place a proactive mitigation strategy anchored on a strong enterprise risk management framework to enable uninterrupted access to banking services.

“We shall, riding on the unique synergies in the over 15 million-member co-operative movement that is the largest in Africa, continue to pursue a strategic initiative that focuses on resilience and growth in the new normal as the nation focuses on flattening the curve and as vibrancy returns to the economy,” Co-op Bank Group MD Gideon Muriuki concluded.

I&M, Co-op Bank top bank rating for first quarter 2020 – Cytonn Research

Kenya’s banking sector showed resilient performance despite the tough operating environment which was largely attributable to persistent revenue diversification. This is according to an analysis of the financial performance of listed banks done by the Cytonn Financial Services Research Team for the first quarter of this year.

The report has also carried out a comprehensive ranking of the listed banks on the basis of franchise value and also on future growth opportunity, with I&M Holdings and Coop bank score at 51 and 49, respectively.

KCB Group Plc and Equity Group follow closely with 56 and 60 respectively, on the franchise value score.

On the Q1’ 2020 ranking, there hasn’t been much shifting from the FY’ 2019 list with the leaders only slightly changing position. Co-op Bank shifts up a position to rank second, with a slight margin. FY’ 2019 leader, KCB Group has ceded two positions to rank third, albeit with an impressive franchise value score – 56.

The report also highlights other banking giants in successive order include DTBK at position 5, ABSA at position 6 with franchise value score of 67 and 62, respectively.

Stanbic Bank/Holdings, SCBK, NCBA Group Plc, HF Group Plc rank in that order to make the top ten financial institutions list.

Co-operative Bank of Kenya Ltd whose rank improved to Position 2 from Position 3 in FY’2019 mainly due to an improvement in the Gross NPL ratio to 10.8% in Q1’2020 from 11.2% in FY’2019, in turn, improving its franchise value score, and,Major Changes from the Q1’2020 Ranking are:

  • KCB Group whose rank declined to Position 3 from Position 1 in FY’2019 mainly due to a deterioration in the cost to income ratio to 61.1% in Q1’2020 from 56.2% in FY’2019 thus, in turn, worsening the franchise value score.

The report all the same highlights that banks reported a decline in the quality of their loan books, as a result of compliance with the new accounting rules known as IFRS 9, together with the cautious stance that banks have taken to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Asset quality deteriorated in Q1’2020 with the gross NPL ratio increasing by 0.9% points to 11.3% from 10.4% in Q1’2019. This was high compared to the 5-year average of 8.5%. In accordance with IFRS 9, banks are expected to provide both for the incurred and expected credit losses. Consequently, this saw the NPL coverage increase to 57.4% in Q1’2020 from 54.5% in Q1’2019 as banks adopted a cautious stance on the back of the expected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Cytonn Report.

There are more banking report details on Cytonn Q1’2020 Listed Banking Sector Review

The Co-operative Bank jolts banking sector by a record Kshs. 5.1 Billion profit in first quarter 2020

The Co-operative Bank Group has an encouraging winning angle against the obstacles occasioned by the ravaging pandemic to report a Profit before Tax of Kshs 5.1 Billion for the first quarter of 2020, a performance closely reflecting last year’s 2019 first quarter results. Profit after Tax was Kshs 3.6 Billion.

The Group has a comprehensive mitigation strategy to cancel out an unpredictable working environment demanded by the Covid-19 pandemic. They have a strategy intended to ensure full banking services continue being accessible to customers in a safe environment consistent with the Ministry of Health guidelines. Most attention has been thrust to digital channels, and branches remain open albeit with constant attention to detail to keep clients safe.

The report has a few highlights;

  1. Profit&Loss
  • Total operating income grew by 12.5%from Kshs 11.1 Billion to Kshs 12.5 Billion
  • Total non-interest income increased by 19% from Kshs 4.2 Billion to Kshs 5.0 Billion
  • Net interest income increased by 8.5% from Kshs 6.9Billion to Kshs 7.5 Billion

Total operating expenses grew by 20.6% from Kshs 7.3 Billion on account higher loan loss provision and staff expenses.

  1. Balance sheet
  • Total assets grew by Kshs 44.7% (+10.5%) to Kshs 470.4 Billion from Kshs 425.7 Billion recorded in the first quarter 2019.
  • Net loans and advances book grew by 24.5 Billion (9.8%) to stand at Kshs 276.2 Billion compare to Kshs 251.6 Billion in 2019.
  • Investment in government securities grew by Kshs 22. 9 Billion (+11.5%) to Kshs 115.9 Billion compared to Kshs 103.9Billion in 2019.
  • Customer’s deposits grew by 6.9% from Kshs 317.8 Billion to Kshs 339.6 Billion.
  • Borrowed funds from development partners grew by Kshs 3.7 Billion (+15.5%) to Kshs 27.4 Billion compared to Kshs 23.7 Billion in 2019.
  • Shareholders’ funds grew from Kshs 82.0 Billion (+12.7) from Kshs 72.8 Billion in 2019.This has enabled the bank to continue to pitch for big ticket deals.
  1. Innovative customer delivery platform.
  • Through our multi-channel strategy ,the bank has successfully moved almost 90% of all customers transactions to alternative delivery channels ,an expanded 24-hour contact center ,mobile banking ,584 ATMs, internet and over 16,700 Co-op Kwa Jirani Banking agents
  • A successful universal banking model and the implementation of Sales Force Effectiveness has seen the group serve over 8 Million Account holders across all sectors.
  • Key focus on digital banking ,with all -telco MCo-op Cash mobile wallet continuing to play a pivotal role in the growth of non-funded income with 5.6 Million customers  registered  and loans with over Kshs. 16 Billion disbursed in quarter 1 2020
  • Over 85, 252 customers have taken up the MSME packagers that we rolled  out in 2018, and 5,000 have been trained on business management and planning .We have earmarked  Kshs 15.2 Billion to MSME lending ,with Kshs 12.4 Billion disbursed to date.
  • Our unique model  of retailing  banking services  through Sacco FOSAs enabled us provide  wholesale financial services to over 479 FOSA outlets and issue over 1.8 million Sacco -link cards.

In a press release, Dr. Gideon Muriuki, Group Managing Director & CEO, also gave credence to the bank’s subsidiaries, like The Co-op Bank of South Sudan with a profit before tax of Kshs.20.7 Million before tax in first quarter 2020. Another major one is the Co-op Consultancy and Insurance Agency with a Kshs.250.5 Million contributed as at 31st March, 2020; and Co-op Trust Investment adding Kshs.20.5 Million.

In addition, the Group has re-aligned close to Kshs.15 Billion to cushion their clients servicing loans from the effects of the pandemic. Co-op clients have had loan repayment periods lengthened, adjusted interest moratorium periods and additional funding if need be to ride out the difficult period.

The Board of Directors have also approved the talks leading to 100% acquisition of Jamii Bora Bank Ltd, which has an asset base of Kshs.20.5 Billion. Due diligence for the acquisition is ongoing.

The Co-op Bank foundation also reports providing scholarships to a tally of 7,657 gifted but needy students across the country since inception. These scholarships cover includes full fees from secondary too university level, internships and later job openings.

Recently, Co-op Bank also boosted the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund with a cash donation of Kshs.100 Million.

In light of these details, it’s not a surprise that Co-op Bank was named Overall Winner of the Kenya Banker’s Association (KBA) 2019 Sustainable Finance Catalyst Award.