Commercial Bank of Kuwait Al Tijari Declares Net Profit of KD 24.0 Million for Q1 2026

Commercial Bank of Kuwait announced a net profit of KD 24.0 million for the quarter ended 31 March 2026. Operating profit before provisions at KD 30.2 million reflects a strong growth of KD 2.8 million (10.2%). Earnings per share for the current period is 12.2 fils (March 2025: 14.2 fils).

Operational Performance:

Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Al Sabah, the Bank’s Chairman, presented the Bank’s results for the first quarter of 2026. Operating profit before provisions grew by KD 2.8 million (10.2%) reflecting healthy performance amidst the ongoing regional challenges and fragile global economic conditions. Operational performance was aided by loan growth of KD 279.3 million (10.0%), 31.9% higher foreign exchange income and a 11.0% increase in fee income, partly offset by higher operating expenses. Net profit of KD 24.0 million reflects a year-on-year decline of KD 4.0 million (14.3%) reflecting higher allocation to precautionary provisions.

Regulatory Ratios:

The Central Bank of Kuwait has implemented various measures, in response to the crisis, 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 17.4%, Liquidity Coverage Ratio 187.8%, Net Stable Funding Ratio 106.7% and Leverage ratio 10.3%. 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 Q1 2026 at 2.32%, Return on Equity 12.6% and Return on Assets 1.8%. Cost to income ratio 34.9% 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.

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.

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 Khaled 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.