First Atlantic Bank proposes GH¢0.29 per share dividend as deposits surge 43%
First Atlantic Bank PLC achieved a profit before tax of GH¢703 million for the financial year ended December 31, 2025, representing a 30.5 per cent increase from the GH¢539 million recorded in the previous year, according to the bank’s audited financial statements released on March 31, 2026.
The financial statements, signed by Board Chairman Amarquaye Armar and Managing Director Odun Odunfa, showed that profit after tax stood at GH¢483 million, while total assets expanded by 44 per cent to GH¢19.2 billion from GH¢13.3 billion.
Customer deposits grew by 43.3 per cent to GH¢16.6 billion, up from GH¢11.6 billion in 2024. The bank’s capital adequacy ratio strengthened to 20.6 per cent, well above the regulatory minimum of 13 per cent.
Net interest income increased by 67.1 per cent to GH¢962.7 million, while the cost-to-income ratio stood at 39.9 per cent, below the industry average of 48.8 per cent.
Successful listing and capital raise
During the year, First Atlantic Bank successfully listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange following an initial public offering that was significantly oversubscribed, reflecting strong investor confidence in the bank’s business model and strategic direction.
The bank raised additional capital through the issuance of 28.7 million new shares, increasing its stated capital to GH¢723.9 million from GH¢404.6 million. A bonus share issue of 14 million shares was also completed.
Dividend and returns
The directors recommended a final dividend of GH¢0.29 per share, amounting to GH¢100 million for the 2025 financial year, subject to regulatory approval. This compares with a dividend of GH¢0.22 per share, totalling GH¢75 million paid in respect of 2024.
Shareholders’ funds strengthened by 38.3 per cent to GH¢2.21 billion from GH¢1.60 billion, while return on equity stood at 21.9 per cent.
Regional expansion and digital transformation
The bank advanced its regional expansion strategy with the establishment of operations in Liberia during the year. It also strengthened its focus on women-led businesses through a dedicated Women Banking Desk, providing tailored financial solutions and advisory services.
On the environmental front, the bank commenced installation of solar power systems across major branches and introduced a waste segregation programme. It launched the FAB GreenDrive Auto Loan to accelerate electric vehicle adoption and initiated Project REACT, a renewable energy and clean transport financing programme, under which it financed over 70 electric vehicles in the second half of the year.
Credit quality and impairment
Gross loans and advances to customers stood at GH¢2.07 billion, with an impairment provision of GH¢125.6 million. The bank recorded a net impairment charge of GH¢79.6 million for the year.
Corporate Social Responsibility
The bank spent GH¢2.6 million on corporate social responsibility during the year, with its flagship project being the rehabilitation of the Kumasi Children’s Park.
Regulatory sanctions
The Bank of Ghana imposed penalties totalling GH¢2 million during the year for breaches of certain sections of the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930).
Outlook
The bank’s capital adequacy ratio of 20.6 per cent and strong liquidity position provide capacity for continued expansion. Management indicated that strategic focus for 2026 will centre on growth, innovation, and sustainability, including further regional expansion and deepening of digital banking /capabilities.