EastWest Banking Corp. has kept its dividend payments flowing to shareholders after reporting stronger earnings, even as it braces for a more difficult operating environment.
Following its annual stockholders' meeting, the Gotianun-led bank on Thursday announced cash dividends totaling P1.8 billion, or P0.82 per share, payable on May 29 to shareholders of record as of May 11.
The dividend payout comes after EastWest reported a net income of P9.2 billion for 2025, up 21 percent, driven by consumer loan growth, improved operating leverage, and digital expansion.
"At a time when many families and businesses are navigating an uncertain environment, we believe the role of a bank is not only to perform, but to remain steady, prepared and responsive," CEO Jerry Ngo said.
The bank's balance sheet remained solid, with total assets rising 10 percent while loans were increasingly tilted toward higher-yielding consumer assets. Deposits grew, with current and savings account (CASA) balances climbing 14 percent to support an 82-percent CASA ratio.
Net interest income increased 21 percent to P40.6 billion, while return on equity (ROE) stood at 11.9 percent, sustaining double-digit levels. The cost-to-income ratio improved to 49.7 percent as revenues outpaced expenses.
EastWest also expanded its ecosystem, rolling out EW Pay with Google Pay integration and forging partnerships with Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc., Foodpanda, and Puregold Price Club Inc. to embed its services into daily transactions.
But even as it delivered returns, the bank signaled caution, highlighting preparations for a tougher macroeconomic backdrop.
"We've been preparing since last year," Ngo said, noting efforts to strengthen buffers through higher nonperforming loan (NPL) coverage ratio and increased provisioning.
"The best time to fix your roof is when the sun is shining," Ngo added, underscoring a multi-year push to build resilience.
Internally, the bank said it is focusing on staying resilient, responsive, and relevant, particularly as shifting conditions test client relationships and credit behavior. Management expects consumption patterns to tilt toward essentials, prompting the bank to deepen partnerships in key sectors while strengthening customer ties.