Chamwe Kaira
Standard Bank Namibia Holdings expects the economy to remain relatively favorable for business, despite persistent global and local risks. Internationally, growth may be held back by high debt levels, geopolitical tensions, and weak external demand.
“Nonetheless, easing global inflation and a gradual pivot towards more accommodative monetary policies may offer some relief to financial markets and emerging economies,” the group said in its results for the six months ended 30 June.
The profit after tax rose from N$505 million in the same period last year to N$556 million.
Locally, the bank sees growth supported by the recovery of mining and agriculture, along with higher public and private investment.
“Continued policy efforts aimed at fostering economic diversification are expected to underpin medium-term momentum. The recent easing of the policy rate is anticipated to boost household and business credit appetite, while inflation is projected to remain within the target range, barring any material supply-side disruptions,” it said.
The Bank of Namibia recently ordered all commercial banks to narrow the gap between the repo rate and prime lending rate by 25 basis points in two phases before year-end, 0.125% by 30 September 2025 and another 0.125% by 31 December 2025. The move aims to improve monetary policy transmission and expand credit access.
In response, the group said it remains focused on disciplined cost control, diversified revenue, higher customer activity, and balanced asset-liability management.
“The group continues to closely monitor macroeconomic and regulatory developments and remains agile in its response to evolving conditions. Strategic priorities, including digital transformation and acceleration, inclusive lending, and sustainable growth, are expected to support continued operational resilience and shareholder value creation over the medium term.”
For the rest of 2025, the bank plans to strengthen client relationships, invest in employee growth, and drive sustainable expansion.
“We remain committed to delivering on our strategic priorities. Ultimately, with our people at the core, we are dedicated to growing Namibia, her businesses, and her people.”
