Karachi: Askari Bank Limited (AKBL) released its financial report for the fourth quarter of calendar year 2025, revealing a net profit after tax (NPAT) of PKR 4.8 billion, translating to earnings per share (EPS) of PKR 3.3. This figure represents a decline of 32% compared to the same period last year and a 36% decrease from the previous quarter.

According to AKD Securities Limited, the bank's earnings were adversely affected by increased provisioning and non-markup expenses, resulting in figures that fell short of expectations. Despite these challenges, the bank announced a final cash payout of PKR 1.75 per share, bringing the total cash payout for the year to PKR 5.0 per share.

The financial report highlighted a 14% year-on-year increase in net interest income (NII), totaling PKR 22.2 billion, although it saw a 3% decline quarter-on-quarter. This growth was attributed to an expansion in the bank's asset base, despite a reduction in yields. Meanwhile, the markup earned decreased by 16% year-on-year and 1% quarter-on-quarter to PKR 75.7 billion, with the markup expensed recorded at PKR 53.5 billion, marking a 24% year-on-year decline and remaining flat quarter-on-quarter. Notably, the bank's estimated net interest margins (NIMs) fell to 3.4% in the fourth quarter, down from 3.7% in the same period last year and the previous quarter.

Additionally, the bank's non-interest income rose by 10% year-on-year to PKR 5.0 billion, though it declined by 24% quarter-on-quarter. This quarterly decline was primarily attributed to lower foreign exchange income and reduced gains on the sale of securities.