Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
FBC Holdings Limited’s wholesale banking subsidiary, Crown Bank, recorded a profit before tax of US$5,1 million in 2025, representing a 22 percent increase from the previous year, driven by growing revenues and an expanding customer base.
Crown Bank was created following FBC Holdings’ acquisition of Standard Chartered Zimbabwe in 2024, a strategic move aimed at creating a stronger financial institution capable of serving corporate, institutional and high-value clients.
The integration combined the product and service offerings of the two institutions, broadening the customer base and enhancing the group’s ability to meet the evolving needs of Zimbabwe’s economy.
In a statement accompanying the group’s 2025 annual report, FBC Holdings chief executive officer Mr Trynos Kufazvinei said an expanded risk appetite had enabled the bank to attract more customers, resulting in increased lending activity and growth in funded income.
“Crown Bank continues to strengthen its financial performance, executing its mandate to serve corporate, institutional, and high-value clients,” reads part of the report.
“During the year, the bank made steady progress in client acquisition and recovery, supporting growth in transactional activity.
“Ongoing efforts to secure external funding lines are enhancing its capacity to fund asset expansion and meet evolving client needs. Asset quality remains strong, supported by disciplined underwriting.”
Mr Kufazvinei said the group’s overall performance remained robust, supported by higher transaction volumes, diversified revenue streams and prudent risk management.
The annual report shows that FBC Holdings’ profit before tax increased by 84 percent to US$31,4 million during the year under review.
According to Mr Kufazvinei, banking operations accounted for 80 percent of the group’s total income, while insurance and investment activities contributed the remaining 20 percent.
“Operating expenses declined significantly, from US$176,4 million to US101,7 million, reflecting the benefits of ongoing digital transformation and automation initiatives, as well as a continued focus on cost discipline and process consolidation,” said Mr Kufazvinei.
The group’s financial position also strengthened during the year, with total assets increasing by 20 percent to US$837,5 million.
The growth was largely driven by a 65 percent increase in customer deposits, which rose to US$486,2 million.
“Loans and advances increased by 21 percent, reflecting targeted growth in the lending book aligned with productive sectors of the economy,” said Mr Kufazvinei.
He added that the group’s balance sheet remained highly liquid, with cash and bank balances increasing by 20 percent to US$208,3 million.
The improved liquidity position, he said, places the group in a strong position to support business expansion and meet customer funding requirements.
Total equity grew by 19 percent to US$156,7 million, underpinned by a 31 percent increase in retained earnings.
However, Mr Kufazvinei noted that growth in equity was moderated by a prior period adjustment arising from the transition from the Zimbabwe dollar to the Zimbabwe Gold (ZWG) currency in 2024 and the subsequent change in the group’s functional currency in 2025.
The results underscore FBC Holdings’ continued growth trajectory as the group leverages digital transformation, balance sheet strength and strategic acquisitions to expand its footprint in Zimbabwe’s financial services sector.
