CIMB Group Holdings Berhad reported a positive financial performance for the first quarter ending March 31, 2025. The Group achieved an 11.2% increase in profit before tax (PBT) quarter-on-quarter and a 2.1% rise year-on-year, amounting to RM2.63 billion. Net profit rose by 9.6% QoQ and 1.9% YoY to RM1.97 billion, resulting in a return on average equity (ROE) of 11.4% and earnings per share (EPS) of 18.4 sen.
The operating income for the first quarter increased by 3.2% QoQ but decreased by 2.3% YoY to RM5.50 billion due to net interest margin compression, which was counterbalanced by asset growth. Net interest income (NII) showed marginal growth both QoQ and YoY at RM3.82 billion, while non-interest income (NOII) grew by 11.1% QoQ driven by treasury client sales and fee commission increases but contracted by 8.5% YoY.
On a constant currency basis, CIMB’s total assets grew by 5.1%, and gross loans increased by 4.4% YoY respectively; the deposit-led strategy expanded total deposits by 2.7%. This resulted in current account saving account inflows growing by 7.4%, raising the CASA ratio from last year’s figures.
CIMB maintained its cost-to-income ratio at a stable level due to cost prudence without sacrificing technology investments, which saw a year-on-year increase of five percent.
Total provisions remained contained with improved credit costs compared to last year, as well as reduced gross impaired loans ratios leading to strong capital positions.
Under its Forward30 strategic plan focusing on customer centricity and sustainable banking practices, CIMB has made leadership transitions in Thailand and Cambodia while identifying growth markets including Singapore.
Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Group said: “Our first quarter performance underscores the continued strength of our diversified ASEAN portfolio with strong contributions across multiple income segments.” He emphasized their commitment to sound risk management amid market uncertainties while positioning ASEAN as pivotal in global trade dynamics.
Amirudin added that disciplined execution of their strategic plan would enable them to meet targets supported by their franchise’s strength.
