By JKNewsMedia
GROSS EARNINGS of N149.27 billion have been projected for the fourth quarter ending 31 December 2025 by Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”), sustaining the growth momentum achieved earlier in the year.
The filing on the Nigerian Exchange shows that the Group’s outlook builds on its first-half performance, when profit after tax increased by 157 percent, gross earnings rose by 39.7 percent to N212.61 billion, and earnings per share climbed to 89 kobo from 56 kobo.
These figures underscored the Group’s profitability trajectory and reinforced investor confidence in its long-term outlook.
Sterling HoldCo stated that it expects interest income of N116.73 billion in the fourth quarter, with interest expenses projected at N42.88 billion.
This would deliver net revenue from funds of N73.85 billion.
The Group also forecast credit impairment charges of N16.84 billion and projected other income at N28.37 billion, bringing net operating income to N85.37 billion.
Operating expenses are estimated at N67.24 billion, resulting in a profit before tax of N18.13 billion.
After accounting for an expected tax expense of N1.88 billion, profit after tax is projected at N16.25 billion for the quarter.
Sterling HoldCo’s cash flow projections highlight the strength of its balance sheet.
The Group expects N13.56 billion in net cash generated from operating activities, N266.16 billion in financing inflows, and N187.93 billion in investing activities.
These forecasts are expected to result in a net increase of N91.79 billion in cash and cash equivalents.
By year-end, the Group projects its cash and bank balance to close at N549.90 billion, compared with N458.11 billion at the start of the quarter.
The Group noted that these projections align with its disciplined focus on cost management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth.
Sterling HoldCo emphasised that its financial performance supports its capacity to sustain profitability while maintaining liquidity strength.
According to the statement, Sterling HoldCo is positioned to channel its financial capacity into supporting key sectors of the Nigerian economy, investing in innovation, and creating value for shareholders, customers, and communities.
The Group stressed that its ability to generate strong operating cash flows while sustaining liquidity provides resilience to navigate market conditions and regulatory shifts.
The filing further stated that while these forecasts reflect the continuation of Sterling HoldCo’s performance momentum, they remain forward-looking and based on current assumptions.
The Group cautioned that actual results may differ materially depending on market and regulatory developments.
