- NMBZ’s loan book expanded 18% to ZWG 3.42 billion, driven by foreign lines of credit to mining and agricultural exporters
- Customer deposits rose to ZWG 3.08 billion, while total assets increased 6% to ZWG 7.82 billion
- Despite operating income falling to ZWG 916 million and profit after tax dropping to ZWG 77.8 million due to restructuring
Harare - NMBZ Holdings Limited has expanded its loan book by 18% to ZWG 3.42 billion in the half year to 30 June 2025, up from ZWG 2.91 billion in December 2024 according to the latest half year financial results.
The bank said the growth was underpinned by foreign lines of credit channelled mainly to exporting companies in mining and agriculture, sectors expected to drive Zimbabwe’s projected economic rebound this year.
‘’ The drive to mobilise lines of credit saw the loan book growing by 18%, ’’ Chief Executive Officer Gerald Gore said.
Deposits grew to ZWG 3.08 billion from ZWG 2.49 billion at year-end 2024, reflecting increased customer confidence, while total assets rose 6% to ZWG 7.82 billion.
The bank maintained a solid capital adequacy ratio of 24.99%, well above the 12% regulatory minimum, anchored on its US dollar–denominated assets.
The Group is also drawing down on a fresh US$50 million credit line to further support long-term financing needs, particularly for exporters.
The increase in advances comes at a time when the economy is clawing back from a sluggish 1.7% growth rate in 2024 to a forecast 6% in 2025, bolstered by firming gold prices , tobacco and a recovery in agriculture.
NMBZ’s loan expansion signals both confidence in its credit risk management and the critical role banks are playing in keeping productive sectors afloat.
The banks performance, however, reflects both progress and strain , operating income for the six months fell to ZWG 916 million from ZWG 1.22 billion a year earlier, weighed down by restructuring costs of ZWG 138.5 million as the Group shifted towards leaner, digital-focused operations.
Profit after tax dropped to ZWG 77.8 million, compared to ZWG 127.2 million in the same period last year.
Its fintech subsidiary, Xplug Solutions, is scaling regional projects across East and Southern Africa, while NMB Properties has launched new residential and industrial developments, signalling diversification beyond traditional banking.
Looking ahead, the group remains optimistic as it continues to invest in digital banking, agency expansion, and green financing, while incorporating artificial intelligence into operations to improve efficiency.
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