EastWest Bank's profit rise as consumer lending grows

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EastWest President Jacqueline S. Fernandez

Gotianun-led East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) posted a six percent improvement in net income to ₱1.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025 from ₱1.7 billion in the same period last year on the back of strong consumer lending and continued optimization of its cost structure. 

“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 Jacqueline S. Fernandez.

EastWest’s revenues rose by 16 percent year-on-year to ₱11.6 billion, underpinned by a 13 percent increase in net interest income, which reached ₱9.3 billion. 

The Bank’s consumer lending portfolio grew by 15 percent and now accounts for 84 percent of total loans—the highest among peer banks. 

Deposits also expanded by 12 percent to ₱399.2 billion, with a CASA (current and savings accounts) ratio of 74 percent, placing EastWest among the industry’s top performers.

This strong balance sheet performance translated to a net interest margin (NIM) of 8.1 percent, one of the highest in the sector. 

Non-interest income grew by 25 percent to ₱2.3 billion, boosted by fees from its lending business, which rose by 31 percent to ₱1.7 billion.

Operating expenses ended at ₱6.3 billion, slowing down to only eight percent from the previous year. Expense increases were mostly attributed to manpower and business-related expenses for a growing Bank. 

EastWest’s total assets rose by 11 percent to ₱531.2 billion, with loans and receivables increasing by 11 percent to ₱339.0 billion, propelled by robust growth in credit cards (36 percent) and personal loans (18 percent). 

Capital ratios remain strong and supportive of future growth, with CAR at 13.7 percent and CET1 ratio at 12.8 percent, well above regulatory standards.

EastWest Chief Executive Officer Jerry G. Ngo

“Our strategic direction is clear—we are committed to scaling our consumer banking business, deepening customer relationships, and accelerating digital transformation,” said EastWest Chief Executive Officer Jerry G. Ngo. 

He noted that, “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.”