EastWest reports 6% net income growth, highlights strong consumer lending

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest), led by Gotianun, reported a 6% increase in net income to ₱1.8 billion for the first quarter of 2025.

Jacqueline S. Fernandez, EastWest's president, highlighted strong consumer lending and cost optimization as key drivers behind the improved performance, noting a 'healthy' return on equity of 10%.

Revenues grew by 16%, with net interest income rising 13% to ₱9.3 billion and deposits expanding by 12% to ₱399.2 billion.

Consumer lending now accounts for 84% of total loans, the highest among peer banks, contributing to EastWest's robust balance sheet performance with a net interest margin of 8.1%.

EastWest's strategic focus includes scaling its consumer banking business, deepening customer relationships, and accelerating digital transformation, supported by strong capital ratios exceeding regulatory standards.

Jerry G. Ngo, CEO of EastWest, emphasized the bank's readiness to capitalize on growth opportunities through continued investment in technology and product offerings.