East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) posted a net income of 1.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025, sustaining its growth trajectory through strong consumer lending and continued optimization of its cost structure. Return on Equity (ROE) remained healthy at 10%. “Our first quarter performance reflects the solid momentum we’ve built in expanding our consumer franchise. We remain focused on driving profitability through disciplined growth and operational efficiency.” said EastWest President Jackie S. Fernandez.

Consumer Lending and Deposits Drive Top-Line Growth
EastWest’s revenues rose by 16% year-on-year to P11.6 billion, underpinned by a 13% increase in net interest income, which reached P9.3 billion. The Bank’s consumer lending portfolio grew by 15% and now accounts for 84% of total loans—the highest among peer banks. Deposits also expanded by 12% to P399.2 billion, with a CASA ratio of 74%, placing EastWest among the industry’s top performers.

This strong balance sheet performance translated to a net interest margin (NIM) of 8.1%, one of the highest in the sector. Non-interest income grew by 25% to P2.3 billion, boosted by fees from its lending business, which rose by 31% to P1.7 billion.

Optimizing cost structure
Operating expenses ended at P6.3 billion, slowing down to only 8% from the previous year. Expense increases were mostly attributed to manpower and business-related expenses for a growing Bank. As a result, the cost-to-income ratio improved by 365 basis points to 54.3%, driven by efficiency efforts across the organization.

EastWest’s total assets rose by 11% to P531.2 billion, with loans and receivables increasing by 11% to P339.0 billion, propelled by robust growth in credit cards (36%) and personal loans (18%). Capital ratios remain strong and supportive of future growth, with CAR at 13.7% and CET1 ratio at 12.8%, well above regulatory standards.

Investing in Growth while Rewarding Shareholders
EastWest recently declared cash dividends of P0.68 per share, amounting to P1.5 billion or 20% of 2024 earnings— marking the fourth consecutive year of dividend payouts.

To sustain its momentum in consumer lending and further grow its credit card business, EastWest launched the EastWest Puregold Visa Credit Card. Designed for everyday essentials, the card offers cashback and exclusive perks for grocery shoppers and sari-sari store owners—underscoring the Bank’s focus on delivering relevant, high-impact financial solutions for Filipino consumers.

“Our strategic direction is clear—we are committed to scaling our consumer banking business, deepening customer relationships, and accelerating digital transformation,” said EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo. “With a strong foundation, robust capital position, and market-leading margins, we are well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities. We will continue investing in technology, expanding our customer base, and strengthening our product offerings to sustain our momentum in the years ahead. The future is bright, and we are ready to go further.”

 

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About East West Banking Corporation:

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name. For more information, visit www.eastwestbanker.com.