Bank of Khyber reports Rs3.61bn profit, announces Rs1.70 per share dividend

Aziz Buneri

PESHAWAR: The Bank of Khyber (BoK) posted a profit after tax of Rs3.61 billion for the year ended 31 December 2024, reflecting a slight increase from Rs3.48 billion in 2023. With steady profitability and a dividend payout, the bank continues to strengthen its financial position amid rising operational costs.

The net markup/interest income rose to Rs16.49 billion, up from Rs13.89 billion in the previous year. The increase was driven by higher mark-up/return/interest earned, which reached Rs 65.22 billion, compared to Rs 59.07 billion in 2023.

The bank’s Board of Directors, in its 198th meeting on 5 March 2025, recommended a final cash dividend of Rs 1.70 per share (17%) for the year. No bonus shares or right shares were announced.

Non-markup/interest income stood at Rs 1.77 billion, with Rs 529 million earned from foreign exchange income and Rs 177 million in gains on securities.

Meanwhile, operating expenses climbed to Rs 10.53 billion from Rs 8.56 billion, reflecting higher costs. The profit before taxation rose to Rs 8.13 billion, compared to Rs 6.70 billion in 2023. The bank paid Rs 4.51 billion in taxes, up from Rs 3.22 billion in the previous year.

The basic and diluted earnings per share increased to Rs 3.12, compared to Rs 3.01 in 2023.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the bank will be held on 28 March 2025 at BOK Tower, Peshawar. The share transfer books will remain closed from 21 March to 28 March 2025.