MANILA, Philippines — East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) reported net income of ₱5.0 billion for the first nine months of 2026, as healthy underlying operating performance supported profitability amidst a more challenging macroeconomic environment.

Net revenues reached ₱43.4 billion, up 16% year-on-year, supported by continued growth in the Bank's core businesses. Net interest income increased 22% to ₱36.2 billion, driven by a larger interest-earning asset base, while service charges, fees and commissions grew 10% to ₱5.8 billion.

Operating expenses increased by 10% to ₱21.0 billion, resulting in positive operating leverage. The Bank's cost-to-income ratio improved to 48.4% from 51.4% a year earlier, while pre-provision operating profit increased 24% to ₱22.4 billion, reflecting the continued strength and improving efficiency of the Bank's underlying operations.

“Our underlying businesses remain healthy, with strong revenue growth and improving operating efficiency allowing the Bank to remain profitable,” said EastWest Chief Executive Officer Jerry G. Ngo. “The current environment requires us to maintain discipline in managing risk while continuing to strengthen the franchise for the long term.”

Provisions for expected credit losses stood at ₱15.9 billion, reflecting heightened credit risks amid a more challenging and uncertain economic environment. Non-performing loan coverage stood at 90%. The Bank continues to manage these risks while maintaining its focus on financial resilience and sustainable growth.

EastWest's balance sheet continued to expand, with total assets reaching ₱631.8 billion up 14%. Loans grew 11% to ₱399.9 billion, while deposits increased 12% to ₱466.4 billion. The Bank maintained a CASA ratio of 77%, while assets under management in EastWest Priority reached ₱145.0 billion, up 35%.

The Bank maintained capital buffers above regulatory minimums, with a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 12.2% and CET1 ratio of 11.4%. Its planned ₱9.0 billion stock rights offering is expected to further strengthen its capital base and support future growth.

The Bank also earned four International Finance Magazine distinctions recognizing its wealth management and investment capabilities: Best in Priority Banking Experience – Philippines, for the fourth consecutive year; Most Innovative Securities Broker – Philippines; Best Emerging Fund Manager; and Best Specialized Private Wealth Advisor.

EastWest was likewise recognized with three Golden Arrows at the 2026 Golden Arrow Awards, reflecting the Bank's continued focus on governance excellence, transparency, and long-term stakeholder value creation.

Reinforcing its commitment to serving local communities, EastWest's Cagayan de Oro branch was also recognized by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas as an outstanding institutional partner in Mindanao.

“Our priority is to navigate the current environment with financial and risk discipline without losing sight of the Bank's longer-term opportunities,” Ngo said. “By maintaining a strong operating franchise while actively managing risks, we are positioning EastWest to weather near-term uncertainties while building the capabilities needed for sustainable growth.”