30/07/2026 05:27 AST
Commercial Bank of Kuwait announced a net profit of KD 62.3million for the half year ended 30 June 2026 compared to KD 60.4 million for the same period last year. Earnings per share for the current period is 31.6 fils (June 2025: 30.6fils).
Operational Performance
Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Al Sabah, the Bank's Chairman, presented the Bank's results for the first half of 2026 with a Net Profit of KD 62.3 million, reflecting a year-on-year increase of KD 1.9 million (3.2 percent).Operating profit before provisions grew by KD 0.6 million (1.1 percent) reflecting stable performance amidst the prevailing geopolitical challenges and economic uncertainties. Operational performance was aided by loan growth of KD 177.1 million (6.3 percent) and a 10.6 percent increase in fee income, partly offset by higher operating expenses and lower dividend income.
Regulatory Ratios
The Central Bank of Kuwait has implemented various measures, in response to the crisis witnessed in early part of the year, targeted at reinforcing the banking sector's ability to play a vital role in the economy, including but not limited to the expansion of lending capacity, strengthening financing capabilities and in the provision of liquidity to impacted customers. Some of the important measures include reduction in Capital Adequacy Ratio, Liquidity Coverage Ratio and Net Stable Funding Ratio. Despite the relaxation, regulatory ratios have remained resilient with Capital Adequacy Ratio at 18.0 percent, Liquidity Coverage Ratio 221.7 percent, Net Stable Funding Ratio 107.9 percent and Leverage ratio 10.8 percent.These ratios continue to be well above Central Bank's statutory requirements.
Performance ratios
Al-Tijari showed stability with key ratios reflecting strong performance and efficient management despite geopolitical and economic challenges. Net interest margin for HY2026 at 2.4 percent, Return on Equity 15.8 percent and Return on Assets 2.4 percent. Cost to income ratio 35.1 percent remains to be one of the lowest amongst Kuwaiti banks.
Business updates
Sheikh Ahmad added that Al-Tijari continues to make swift strides in its digitalization journey, enhancing its digital platforms and launching innovative customer services. These advancements reflect the Bank's commitment to provide seamless and user-friendly banking experiences.
The key business achievements during the period are: - Al-Tijari successfully upsized its international Certificate of Deposit program from USD 1 billion to USD 2 billion. This landmark expansion reflects the Bank's robust financial standing, strong solvency and the exceptional reception it enjoys in global capital markets. - The Bank expanded its self-service network by installing new machines at several strategic locations across Kuwait. This initiative aligns with the Bank's commitment to enhance customer experience by providing easy access to essential banking services close to their homes.
Raising customer awareness
In an effort to connect with a wider audience and promote its offerings, Al-Tijari organized outreach events at various office and commercial complexes. These events served as a platform to introduce customers to the Bank's range of products and services, while also fostering greater financial literacy among diverse segments of society. Additionally, the Bank actively leveraged its electronic channels to raise awareness about cybersecurity. Through targeted communication messages and diverse activities, customers were educated on the importance of safeguarding their banking information and staying vigilant against potential fraud as part of the flagship campaign "Let's Be Aware". The campaign also aimed at educating customers about different types of frauds, electronic crimes and scams, which target customers via email, SMS, phone calls and various applications.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
The key initiatives taken during the period were: - Al-Tijari announced its support for 'Zahrat Al-Arfaj' campaign launched in appreciation of the efforts of frontline workers and embodying the values of giving and solidarity that characterize Kuwaiti society. - The Bank announced its support for and participation in the national campaign "The Kuwaiti Flag Above Every Home" launched by the Voluntary Work Center. The campaign aims to strengthen national identity and reinforce the symbolism of the Kuwaiti flag in the hearts of citizens and residents. - The Bank participated in Kuwait Sustainability Exhibition, which focused on showcasing innovations related to clean environment and to raise awareness of sustainability, including the latest electric and hybrid vehicles and sustainable consumer products in the Kuwaiti market.
Thank you note
Sheikh Ahmad concluded by praying to Allah to protect Kuwait, its leaders and people and extending his sincere gratitude to the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the Crown Prince of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah for their guidance during these challenging times and for their vision of a peaceful and progressive Kuwait. Sheikh Ahmad extended his appreciation to the Kuwait front lines for their bravery and efforts in protecting the sovereignty of Kuwait.Sheikh Ahmad continued by appreciating the customers for banking with Al-Tijari, the Bank's shareholders, management, employees and all the regulatory authorities, especially the Central Bank of Kuwait, for their continuous support and guidance to the banking industry.
Kuwait Times
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