Bridge Bank reports strong profit growth

Bridge Bank Group Côte d'Ivoire, which listed on the regional stock exchange one month ago, reported a net profit of 23.8 billion CFA francs (40.4 million $) for the first nine months of 2026. This is up from 16.9 billion CFA francs during the same period in 2025, and the results were announced on October 28.

Net banking income rises significantly

The bank’s net banking income, which reflects earnings from its core banking operations, reached 59.3 billion CFA francs, a 28 percent increase. This growth is driven by higher interest income and fees, despite a 23 percent rise in general expenses, which now make up slightly less than 42 percent of total revenues.

Loans and deposits see strong growth

The increase in profits is supported by a 39 percent rise in customer loans, reaching 924.4 billion CFA francs, and a 40 percent increase in customer deposits. These figures show that the bank is expanding its lending and deposit-taking activities, which are key to its growth.

Expanding operations across Côte d'Ivoire and beyond

Bridge Bank operates in a competitive market with 29 licensed banks in Côte d'Ivoire as of the end of 2025. To grow its customer base, the bank has created a department focused on small and medium-sized enterprises and opened a new branch in Riviera Palmeraie, Abidjan. It plans to open branches in Bassam and Korhogo and has received approval to open a branch in Burkina Faso.

Listing boosts shareholder base but risks remain

The bank’s listing, which followed the sale of 20 percent of its shares, has attracted new shareholders. However, the bank must carefully monitor its lending practices. Credit risk charges, which reflect potential loan defaults, have risen 28 percent to 5.9 billion CFA francs, though they are increasing at a slower rate than loans. The true quality of new loans will depend on how well they are repaid over time.