GCC banks drive momentum and transformation with strong growth
Bringing together insights from Financial Services leaders across KPMG's member firms in the six GCC countries, the report offers valuable perspectives on the evolving banking landscape, emerging industry trends, and financial outlook. By analyzing key performance indicators from the past year, the report aims to support banking leaders in shaping strategies and driving long-term growth.
Omar Mahmood (pictured), Head of Financial Services for KPMG in the Middle East, South Asia, Caucasus and Central Asia, and Partner at KPMG in Qatar, commented, 'The GCC banking sector remains a pillar of economic stability and growth, demonstrating resilience in the face of macroeconomic uncertainties. The sector's ability to maintain strong capital positions, enhance asset quality, and embrace digital transformation underscores its commitment to sustainable progress. Looking ahead, we expect a continued focus on managing non-performing loans, cost control, and the integration of AI and ESG principles into banking strategies, ensuring long-term competitiveness and stability.'
The report highlights strong asset growth across GCC banks, supported by robust capital adequacy ratios. Profitability saw a notable increase, driven by higher interest margins and disciplined cost control, while net interest margins (NIMs) remained stable despite economic fluctuations. Non-performing loan (NPL) ratios declined, reflecting prudent credit risk management, and cost-to-income ratios remained among the lowest globally, emphasizing continued operational efficiency. Investor confidence has also been reinforced, with bank share prices showing stability in a volatile market.
In Qatar's banking sector, this year's report reaffirms Qatar National Bank's position as the largest bank in the GCC by assets, reaching $356bn. Qatar also continues to lead the region with the lowest cost-to-income ratio at 25.6 percent and the highest coverage ratio for stage 3 loans at 85.1 percent, reflecting strong financial resilience.
Across the GCC, profitability increased by 10.5 percent, driven by loan book growth, stable interest margins, lower loan impairments, and ongoing cost-efficiency measures. Total assets increased by 9.2 percent, supported by lending to high-quality customers. While net interest margins saw a slight dip of 0.1 percent, the overall NPL ratio improved, decreasing by 0.3 percent to 3.3 percent, signaling a continued conservative approach to credit risk management.
Return on Assets (ROA) (1.5 percent in 2023) slightly increased by 0.04 percent compared to the previous year reflecting stable profitability relative to asset growth.
Looking ahead, KPMG predicts that the GCC banking sector will continue evolving with an increased focus on AI and automation to enhance operational efficiencies, alongside the strengthening of ESG frameworks to embed sustainability within banking strategies. The rise of regulatory technology (RegTech) is expected to support compliance and risk management, while further industry consolidation will likely foster stronger and more competitive financial institutions.
By offering data-driven insights and forward-looking perspectives, KPMG's Momentum and Transformation report serves as a valuable resource for banking leaders, regulators, and policymakers navigating an increasingly complex financial landscape.
© Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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