KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Leong Bank Bhd (HLB) reported a slightly higher net profit of RM1.09 billion for the first quarter ended Sept 30, 2025 (Q1) compared with RM1.089 billion recorded in the same period a year ago.
Revenue for the quarter under review rose to RM1.68 billion versus RM1.59 billion previously.
HLB group managing director and CEO Kevin Lam said total income for Q1 increased 5.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) to RM1.68 billion, underpinned by expansion in loans/financing portfolio and sustained non-interest income.
“Gross loans, advances and financing maintained their strong growth trajectory, rising 9.1% y-o-y to RM211.8 billion. This was driven by expansion in our key segments – mortgage, auto loans, small and medium enterprises and commercial banking – as well as in our key overseas markets,” he said in a statement.
Domestic loans/financing grew 9% y-o-y, continuing to outperform the industry growth rate of 5.5% y-o-y, while residential mortgages rose 6.4% y-o-y to RM102.1 billion, supported by a healthy loans/financing pipeline, he added.
Meanwhile, transport vehicle loans/financing continues to deliver a double-digit growth rate of 11.4% y-o-y to RM24.8 billion, benefitting from strategic partnerships with leading automotive brands and electric vehicle manufacturers, complemented by competitive financing packages.
Loans to domestic business enterprises increased 5.7% y-o-y to RM67.9 billion.
“Our commitment to the SME sector remains steadfast, with loans/financing to SMEs rising 8.7% y-o-y to RM40.4 billion, including a 10.5% y-o-y increase in our community SME banking portfolio. This is underpinned by our dedication to elevating customer experience, leveraging digital transformation and process innovation to deliver an enhanced range of financial solutions,” Lam said.
Loans from overseas operations increased 10.1% y-o-y, spearheaded by growth of 15.1% and 6.2% y-o-y in Singapore and Vietnam, respectively.
Customer deposits for Q1’ rose 7.7% y-o-y to RM236.3 billion.
Accordingly, Casa (current account savings account) notably improved by 9.1% y-o-y to RM76.8 billion, which translates to a ratio of 32.5%. – Bernama
