Bank of East Asia, Limited (“BEA”) (Stock Code: 23) published its audited results for the year ended 31 December 2025. The Group’s profit attributable to owners amounted to HK$3.50 billion, down from HK$4.61 billion in the previous year. Basic earnings per share stood at HK$1.22 compared to HK$1.52 a year earlier, and total dividends per share were HK$0.61 (2024: HK$0.69).
Profit for the year came in at HK$3.53 billion, lower than the HK$4.63 billion recorded in 2024. Operating profit before impairment losses was HK$11.20 billion, against HK$11.35 billion in the prior year. Net interest income decreased to HK$15.32 billion (2024: HK$16.53 billion), mostly due to narrower net interest margin of 1.90%, compared with 2.09% a year earlier. Non-interest income provided support with a notable rise to HK$5.70 billion from HK$4.45 billion, driven by stronger contributions from fee-based businesses.
Operating expenses totaled HK$9.82 billion (2024: HK$9.63 billion). Impairment losses on financial instruments rose slightly to HK$5.64 billion, compared with HK$5.50 billion in the prior year. The overall impaired loan ratio stood at 2.69% (2024: 2.72%). The second interim dividend was set at HK$0.22 per share, bringing the full-year dividend to HK$0.61 per share (2024: HK$0.69).
Consolidated total assets reached HK$920.99 billion by the end of 2025, an increase from HK$877.76 billion at the end of 2024. Customer deposits grew to HK$706.58 billion, while the loan-to-deposit ratio stood at 75.3%, compared to 80.2% a year earlier. On the regulatory front, the total capital ratio strengthened to 28.2% from 22.3%, with a Tier 1 capital ratio of 24.7% (2024: 18.7%) and a Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 24.7% (2024: 17.7%). The average liquidity coverage ratio in the fourth quarter was 182.8%.
The announcement highlighted proactive measures to control credit risk in the commercial real estate segment, along with continued efforts to bolster fee income. Management’s focus on wealth management, syndicated loan activities, and digital capabilities contributed to diversified earnings streams across core markets. The Group remains cautious regarding external headwinds and market challenges.