EBL to pay 25pc cash, 3pc stock dividends for 2025

The board of directors of Eastern Bank Limited has recommended a 25 per cent cash dividend along with a 3 per cent stock dividend for the year ended December last year.
The decision was disclosed in a price-sensitive statement. The bank's annual general meeting (AGM) will be held on June 11 through a virtual platform, while the record date has been set for May 6.
EBL reported consolidated earnings per share (EPS) of Tk 5.23 for 2025, up from Tk 4.14 (restated) in the previous year. Consolidated net asset value (NAV) per share rose to Tk 31.38 from Tk 27.09 (restated), and consolidated net operating cash flow per share (NOCFPS) increased to Tk 20.12 from Tk 15.09 (restated) during the period.
The bank's overall financial performance remained robust during the year, with profit growing by 20 per cent to Tk 9.01 billion, supported by a resilient business model in a challenging operating environment.
Investments recorded sharp growth of 47.8 per cent, reaching Tk 211.47 billion by the end of the year.
Asset quality was further strengthened, with the non-performing loan (NPL) ratio declining to 2.24 per cent in December 2025, significantly lower than the industry average. The bank also maintained full compliance with regulatory requirements.
Profitability indicators showed continued improvement, with return on equity (ROE) rising to 19.13 per cent in 2025 from 18.57 per cent a year earlier.
The cost-to-income ratio remained among the lowest in the industry at 40.36 per cent, underscoring operational efficiency.
To support future growth and enhance resilience, the bank strengthened its capital base, with the capital-to-risk-weighted assets ratio (CRAR) increasing to 15.49 per cent on a solo basis, up from 15.11 per cent in 2024.
The bank said the recommended stock dividend is aimed at further reinforcing its capital base to support business expansion and improve regulatory ratios. It also clarified that the stock dividend will be issued from current year profits and not from any reserves or unrealised gains, ensuring no adverse impact on retained earnings.

farhan.fardaus@gmail.com