The strong profit growth was fueled by robust asset expansion, improved loan quality, and higher net interest income.
The bank’s return on equity (ROE) improved to 13 percent, surpassing last year’s 12.5 percent, underscoring Metrobank’s solid financial performance and prudent risk management.
Cash dividend
In line with its strong earnings, Metrobank’s Board of Directors approved a total cash dividend of P5 per share for 2024. This includes:
A regular dividend of P3 per share, paid semi-annually
A special cash dividend of P2 per share
Shareholders on record as of March 6, 2025, will receive a P3.50 dividend payout as the initial payout.
Loan and deposit growth
Metrobank’s net interest income rose 8.7 percent to P114.1 billion, fueled by a 17-percent expansion in gross loans, outpacing the industry’s 12.5 percent growth. Key contributors included:
Commercial loans, which surged 17.7 percent, reflecting increased corporate capital spending
Consumer loans, which climbed 14.4 percent, led by an 18.6 percent rise in credit card receivables and 18.2 percent growth in auto loans
Total deposits also saw 8 percent year-on-year growth, reaching P2.6 trillion, with low-cost Current and Savings Accounts (CASA) making up 57.8 percent.
Diversified revenue streams, operational investments
Metrobank’s fee and trust income climbed to P18.1 billion, supported by strong consumer business expansion. The bank also recorded a 39 percent increase in trading and foreign exchange gains, totaling P5.6 billion.
Operating expenses rose 11 percent to P77.2 billion, reflecting investments in technology, manpower, and marketing as Metrobank continues to expand its capabilities and improve customer service.
Strong balance sheet
Metrobank maintained a fortress balance sheet, with:
Total consolidated assets at P3.52 trillion, cementing its position as the second-largest private universal bank in the Philippines
Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) at 16.7 percent and Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) Ratio at 15.9 percent, both well above Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) requirements
Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) at 256.1percent, ensuring strong financial stability
With its consistent performance, The Asian Banker recognized Metrobank as the ‘Strongest Bank in the Philippines’ for the fourth consecutive year. Metrobank was also honored as the ‘Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility’ at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024, highlighting its contributions to education, arts, and social sectors through the Metrobank Foundation.
Outlook: Sustained growth, market leadership
Metrobank president Fabian S. Dee credited the bank’s success to investments in technology, risk management, and market expansion across corporate, middle-market, retail, and wealth segments.
The strong balance sheet and positive momentum allow Metrobank to meet the evolving needs of clients while executing its medium-term growth strategies, Dee said.
With its record-breaking earnings, expanding loan portfolio, and solid financial standing, Metrobank is poised to maintain its leadership in the Philippine banking sector. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
