Coronation Merchant Bank held its Annual General Meeting today at Victoria Island, Lagos, reflecting on a year of remarkable financial recovery and strategic advancements. The Bank reported robust financial performance for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023, showcasing significant growth in key metrics despite a challenging economic environment.

Financial Highlights

• Gross Earnings: ₦61.6 billion, a 62% increase over 2022
• Profit Before Tax: ₦3.47 billion, marking a significant recovery from a loss in 2022
• Shareholders’ Funds: 5% increase to N37.33 billion (Dec 2022: N31.99 billion)
• Return on Equity: 9% from -26% in 2022
• Earnings per share 56kobo (2022: -173kobo)

Key Ratios

• Capital Adequacy Ratio: Improved to 6% from 10.2% in 2022
• Loan to Funding Ratio: Remained steady at 79%
• Non-Performing Loan (NPL) Ratio: Maintained at 0%
• Liquidity ratio: 4% (2022: 55.6%)

Commenting on the results, MD/CEO Banjo Adegbohungbe stated, “Our financial performance in 2023 underscores the resilience of our strategic vision and the dedication of our team. Despite formidable headwinds, we achieved gross earnings of ₦61.6 billion, a 62% increase over 2022. Profit Before Tax rose to ₦3.47 billion, a remarkable recovery from the previous year’s loss. This performance highlights our commitment to sustainable growth and value creation for our stakeholders.“

Mr. Babatunde Folawiyo, Chairman, Coronation Merchant Bank Limited, remarked; “While 2023 presented significant challenges due to macroeconomic headwinds that impacted our financial performance, we have remained steadfast in our conviction that the invaluable lessons from the past two years will propel us towards improved performance and returns for our stakeholders. We have not only weathered the storm but have truly harnessed its winds. Our initiatives in 2023 yielded positive outcomes, demonstrating our unwavering resolve and commitment to continuous value creation. The confidence of our clients is the vital force propelling our enterprise, and we remain fiercely committed to nurturing it. We are optimistic about the future trajectory of our Bank and are committed to delivering value to our customers.”

Operational Milestones

In 2023, Coronation Merchant Bank continued to cement its position as a leading financial institution in Nigeria. Significant milestones achieved in 2023 include:

• Investment Banking: A 27% increase in mandates, affirming our leadership in the
• International Recognition: Retaining our position as the first and only Nigerian Merchant Bank with an international risk
• Awards: Receiving the prestigious “Best Investment Bank in Nigeria, 2023” award from World Finance for the 6^th consecutive

“Our vision to become the preeminent institution in trade finance, investment banking, corporate banking, and treasury drives us forward,” said Deputy Managing Director, Paul Abiagam. “The recognition from World Finance and our sustained top 10 ranking on the FMDQ Treasury league table for the sixth consecutive year validate our relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Prudential Ratios

The Bank’s prudential ratios remained robust, reflecting sound risk management and financial capacity. The Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 12.6%, an improvement from 2022. The Liquidity Ratio closed at 64.4%, and the Loan-to-Funding Ratio remained at 79%. Notably, the NPL Ratio was sustained at 0% for the eighth consecutive year, underscoring our commitment to high asset quality and effective credit risk management.

Outlook for 2024

Looking ahead, the Bank anticipates a period of modest GDP growth, persistent inflationary pressures, and improved foreign exchange liquidity driven by ongoing reforms and increased foreign investments. Despite challenges, the Bank remains poised to harness economic headwinds and explore new growth avenues.

“We are ready to chart new paths of progress in 2024 by identifying and pursuing emerging opportunities, maintaining exceptional customer service, and leveraging our robust and diversified business model,” concluded Mr. Abiagam. “We are confident in our ability to sustain our trajectory of earnings growth and deliver superior returns to our shareholders.”

Coronation Merchant Bank’s dedication to excellence continues to set it apart in the African merchant banking subsector. The Bank’s recent 4-step upgrade by Fitch Ratings underscores its commitment to prudent financial management and operational excellence. Coronation Merchant Bank remains focused on delivering exceptional customer experience and fostering a prosperous financial future for its clients and the African continent.

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About Coronation Merchant Bank Limited

Coronation Merchant Bank Limited was established in 2015 to provide wholesale banking to a long- underserved market. The Bank offers Corporate & Investment Banking, Private Banking/Wealth Management and Global Markets/Treasury Services to its niche clientele. It is the first and only merchant bank in Nigeria with an international risk rating. It presently has two branches in Abuja and Port Harcourt with its Head Office in Lagos, Nigeria.

The Bank has been the recipient of numerous international and national awards including Best Investment Bank in Nigeria by Global Finance, Best Investment Bank in Nigeria by World Finance, Best Investment Bank in Nigeria by Global Banking & Finance Review, Best Investment Bank by Global Business Outlook, Best Investment Bank in Nigeria by International Finance and Best Investment Bank in Nigeria at the BusinessDay Banking and Financial Institution Awards.