This report discusses developments in the banking sector based on the prudential returns of the twenty-three (23) banks as at February 2020.
The banking sector showed improved financial performance at end-February, characterized by stronger total assets growth, higher credit growth to the private sector and strong growth in deposits as confidence in the sector firmed up.
The industry’s profit after tax was also higher relative to the same period last year. In addition, indicators of financial soundness pointed to a solvent, liquid and profitable banking sector. The industry’s measure of solvency, the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) under the Basel II/III framework remained well above the regulatory 13 percent prudential limit.
Asset quality also improved reflected in declines in the Non-Performing loans (NPL) ratio on the back of recoveries, write-offs, and increased credit growth.
Despite the strong performance of the banking sector, initial assessments of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic indicates that banks’ operations may face challenges with credit extension, loan repayment, and correspondent banking relationships.
To help mitigate such effects on banks and the wider economy, the Bank of Ghana has announced policy measures to boost financial intermediation while minimising the risk of deterioration in asset quality.
The Bank of Ghana will continue to monitor on-going developments to ensure the safety and soundness of the overall financial system in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
