Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (Sterling HoldCo) has projected gross earnings of N149.27 billion for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2025, a forecast that underscores the Group’s sustained growth momentum and investor confidence.
The projection builds on the company’s strong first-half performance, when profit after tax rose by 157 percent, gross earnings increased by 39.7 percent to N212.61 billion, and earnings per share climbed to 89 kobo from 56 kobo.
According to a filing on the Nigerian Exchange, Sterling HoldCo expects to generate N116.73 billion in interest income and incur N42.88 billion in interest expenses, leaving a net revenue from funds of N73.85 billion. Credit impairment charges are forecast at N16.84 billion, while other income is projected 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 tax obligations of N1.88 billion, profit after tax is projected at N16.25 billion for the quarter.
Sterling HoldCo also expects strong liquidity, with net cash generated from operating activities put at N13.56 billion, alongside N266.16 billion in financing inflows and N187.93 billion in investing activities. This is projected to deliver a net cash increase of N91.79 billion, closing the year with N549.90 billion in cash and bank balances compared to N458.11 billion at the beginning of the quarter.
The Group said the projections reflect its disciplined approach to cost management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth, which position it to support key growth sectors of the Nigerian economy, invest in innovation, and create value for stakeholders.
Sterling HoldCo emphasized that its ability to generate strong operating cashflows while maintaining significant liquidity demonstrates resilience, adding that it is well-positioned to deepen its participation in Nigeria’s growth sectors and sustain shareholder value.
The company, however, cautioned that the forecasts are forward-looking and subject to changes in market conditions and regulatory developments.
Sterling HoldCo, which oversees subsidiaries including Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited, and SterlingFI Wealth Management, said it remains committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy.