A remarkable surge in financial performance propelled Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. to unprecedented heights in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking net income. The bank reported a staggering P49.7 billion in profits, a testament to strategic growth and robust financial management.
This exceptional outcome wasn’t a matter of chance, but the result of a carefully orchestrated strategy. Modest asset expansion, resilient profit margins, and a surge in trading income all contributed to the bank’s success, while diligent cost control further amplified gains.
Operating profit before provisions demonstrated significant strength, climbing 17.1% year-on-year to reach P78.4 billion. This underscores the bank’s core operational efficiency and its ability to generate substantial earnings from its primary business activities.
According to President Fabian S. Dee, the bank’s achievements reflect a deep-seated trust from clients, the unwavering dedication of its employees, and a steadfast commitment to disciplined growth. The focus remains on supporting the businesses and consumers that fuel the Philippine economy.
Net interest income experienced a healthy increase of 9.2%, reaching P124.6 billion, fueled by an impressive 8.8% expansion in gross loans, now totaling P2.04 trillion. This growth was particularly evident in both corporate/commercial lending and the consumer portfolio.
The corporate and commercial loan book grew by 7.4%, mirroring the broader economic expansion, while the consumer portfolio demonstrated even stronger momentum with a 13.9% increase. This dual growth strategy indicates a broad-based strengthening of the bank’s lending activities.
Despite the expansion, asset quality remained remarkably strong. The nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio held steady at 1.7%, and the NPL cover – a crucial buffer against potential credit risks – stood at a robust 140.8%.
Beyond interest income, non-interest income also contributed significantly, rising by 11.6% to P33.5 billion. A remarkable 47.2% jump in trading and foreign exchange income, driven by strong customer activity and favorable market conditions, was a key driver.
Fee and trust income also saw positive growth, increasing by 6% to P19.2 billion, further diversifying the bank’s revenue streams. This demonstrates the bank’s ability to capitalize on a range of financial services.
While operating costs increased by a modest 3.3% to P79.7 billion, the bank successfully improved its cost-to-income ratio to 50.7%, down from 53.8% the previous year. This highlights improved efficiency in managing expenses.
Total deposits reached P2.7 trillion, with a significant 59.2% comprised of low-cost current and savings accounts. This strong deposit base provides a stable and cost-effective funding source for the bank’s operations.
The loan-to-deposit ratio remained healthy at 74.9%, indicating the bank’s capacity to readily meet the funding needs of its customers. This balance is crucial for maintaining financial stability and supporting economic activity.
Consolidated assets expanded by 10.2% year-on-year, reaching P3.88 trillion, while total equity increased by 9.4% to P421.7 billion. These figures demonstrate substantial growth in the bank’s overall financial strength.
Capital adequacy and liquidity ratios remained well above regulatory requirements. The capital adequacy ratio stood at 16.8%, and the common equity Tier 1 ratio at 16.1%, while the liquidity coverage ratio reached an impressive 181.7%.
The bank expressed confidence that its robust capital position and strong balance sheet will provide a solid foundation for navigating future economic uncertainties. This proactive approach to risk management is essential for long-term sustainability.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive financial results, the bank’s shares experienced a slight dip on Thursday, closing at P73.30 apiece, down by 85 centavos. This minor fluctuation did not overshadow the bank’s overall impressive performance.
