East West Banking Corp., the country’s 11th largest lender by assets, capped 2025 with a 21 percent jump in net income to P9.2 billion, powered by robust core revenues, double-digit fee growth and tighter cost discipline, underscoring the bank’s expanding earnings engine in a competitive market.
Total revenues climbed 20 percent year-on-year to P51.0 billion as net interest income rose to P40.6 billion, fueled by a 13 percent increase in interest-earning assets. Fee income advanced 21 percent to P7.1 billion, reflecting broader cross-selling and stronger non-interest revenue streams. Return on equity improved to 11.9 percent.
“Our 2025 performance demonstrates the Bank’s ability to grow efficiently amidst a competitive environment and evolving market conditions,” said President Jackie S. Fernandez, citing resilient asset growth and improved fee momentum.
EastWest Bank, controlled by the Gotianun Group, said operating expenses rose a measured 8 percent to P25.4 billion, largely due to volume-related costs and sustained investments in talent and technology. That spending translated into productivity gains, with pre-provision operating profit surging 33 percent to P25.5 billion. The cost-to-income ratio improved sharply to 49.7 percent from 55.2 percent a year earlier, signaling stronger operating leverage.
Provisions for credit losses stood at P14.2 billion, keeping non-performing loan coverage at 86 percent. “Our prudent provisioning strategy ensures the Bank remains well-positioned against macroeconomic uncertainties,” said chief executive officer Jerry G. Ngo.
The balance sheet expanded solidly, with total assets up 10 percent to P577.1 billion and deposits rising 13 percent to P437.8 billion. A high CASA ratio of 82 percent highlighted stable, low-cost funding, while Priority Banking assets under management jumped 40 percent past P100 billion.
Digital initiatives gained traction under the EasyWay ecosystem, lifting digital penetration to 51 percent and earning high app ratings. With capital ratios comfortably above regulatory minimums, EastWest enters 2026 projecting sustained growth momentum.
