DOWNLOAD
Sub-sector: Banks
Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 04 Feb 2026Hana Financial Group (Hana FG) struggled for several years to make its acquisition of the former Korea Exchange Bank a success, but results improved dramatically in 2015 as revenues grew and cost efficiencies improved. It has produced strong results since 2020.
The group is looking for inorganic growth in its non-bank businesses as it has fallen behind Shinhan FG and KBFG in this area, but has so far shied away from a large acquisition.
Hana Bank has the highest CET 1 ratio among the Korean Big 4 banks.
Business Description
AS OF 04 Feb 2026- Hana FG is the third-largest financial group in South Korea. From small origins as a finance company in the 1970s, after the 1997 Asian crisis, Hana grew by acquiring three other banks, including the much older Seoul Bank, which had a banking and trust management business.
- Hana FG bought Korea Exchange Bank (KEB) from Lone Star in 2012 after overcoming many hurdles, but due to staff union opposition, it could not merge with Hana Bank until 2015.
- Hana FG's overseas business is smaller than its peers, and is complemented by KEB's extensive international operations. KEB was started in 1967 as a government-owned bank specializing in foreign exchange. It had a leading share in FX transactions and trade finance among Korean banks.
- Hana FG has shown good growth in its credit card and securities non-bank businesses, but is less diversified than its larger peers KB and Shinhan, which have also acquired insurance companies. Its latest acquisition (in 2019) was a 15% stake in Vietnam's state-owned Bank for Investment & Development (BIDV).
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 04 Feb 2026Hana FG’s credit costs at ~30 bp in FY24 and FY25 were lower than peers. However, the group’s NPL coverage ratio was also ~20-30 ppt behind peers.
NIMs are lower than those of KB and Shinhan at both the group and bank levels. The profit contribution from non-bank entities to group profits is also lagging behind these two peers. Both metrics are comparable to Woori’s.
Non-banking businesses have underperformed in recent years, with profit contributions falling from 20–30% in 2019–2021 to around 10%, primarily due to elevated provisions for domestic real estate project financing and valuation losses related to overseas commercial real estate.
Loan growth is expected to be more challenging given tighter regulation on mortgage lending.
Key Metric
AS OF 04 Feb 2026| KRW bn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | FY25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Provision Profit ROA | 1.07% | 1.10% | 1.11% | 1.00% | 1.02% |
| ROA | 0.74% | 0.66% | 0.59% | 0.61% | 0.62% |
| ROE | 10.9% | 10.1% | 9.0% | 9.1% | 9.2% |
| Provisions/Loans | 0.16% | 0.34% | 0.46% | 0.32% | 0.31% |
| NPL Ratio | 0.32% | 0.34% | 0.50% | 0.62% | 0.72% |
| CET1 Ratio | 13.8% | 13.2% | 13.2% | 13.2% | 13.4% |
| Equity/Assets | 6.8% | 6.4% | 6.6% | 6.7% | 6.6% |
| Net Interest Margin | 1.66% | 1.83% | 1.82% | 1.69% | 1.73% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 09 Feb 2026Hana FG grew through acquisitions but only in 2015 was it able to merge its two main bank units to form KEB-Hana Bank. Hana’s management has a good record but for some years struggled to extract value from its acquisitions. Its performance for the past few years has generally been strong. More focus has been put on RWA management and capital enhancement since 2H24. The non-bank segment remains a drag. Hana’s credit costs were lower than those of its peers, but this has also resulted in the lowest NPL coverage ratio among the four FGs. The bank LCR and NSFR are low at 105/109% (3Q25). The group aims to maintain a CET1 ratio of 13-13.5%; its bank level CET1 ratio is the highest amongst peers. Insurance M&A is being considered. We have an Underperform recommendation on tight valuations.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 09, 2026
Recommendation Changed: October 31, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 05 Jan 2026BNP’s financial strength is based on its strong franchises across retail, commercial and investment banking, and its wide business and geographic diversification. Profitability is sound and improving, while asset quality has held up well.
Uncertainty around the financial health of the French sovereign and its ratings have the capacity to weigh on BNP’s stock price and its credit spreads. More recently, uncertainty around litigation and Sudan claims circles the bank.
Capital and leverage ratios are run tightly considering BNP’s balance sheet size.
Business Description
AS OF 05 Jan 2026- BNP is one of the most diversified banking groups in Europe, having been created from a merger of the retail/commercial bank BNP and the corporate/investment bank Paribas in 2000.
- Domestic Markets (DM) comprises the Group's four retail banking networks in the eurozone and its three specialised business lines (including leasing and digital banking). The retail banks are French Retail Banking (FRB), BNL in Italy, BNP Paribas Fortis in Belgium and BGL BNP Paribas in Luxembourg.
- International Financial Services (IFS) includes consumer finance, asset management and private banking, and subsidiaries in non-eurozone countries, including TEB in Turkey and BNP Paribas Bank Polska.
- Corporate & Institutional Banking (CIB) is a global provider of financial solutions to corporate and institutional clients and includes BNP's extensive trading and investment banking businesses.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 05 Jan 2026BNP Paribas remains the subject of various claims concerning the Madoff matter; amongst other claims. Litigation provisions on the balance sheet stood at €973 mn at 30 June 2025. BNP says the latest claims against it stand at $1.1 bn as of June 2025.
If there was a negative rating action on the sovereign, it is possible that BNP’s ratings will be impacted but it is difficult to say with any uncertainty. France represents around 30% of revenues and gross commitments on balance sheet and sovereign bond holdings are moderate; we discuss more below.
A U.S. court found BNP liable for $21 mn of damages to three Sudanese refugees, in connection with its alleged role in providing banking services to Sudan’s former president and enabling human rights abuses. This is immaterial for the bank, however, the concern is that the case could open the door to similar claims from other victims, via class action or individual suits.
Key Metric
AS OF 05 Jan 2026| mn | Y21 | Y22 | Y23 | Y24 | 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Return On Equity | 8.2% | 8.2% | 9.0% | 9.3% | 9.8% |
| Total Revenues Margin | 1.8% | 1.7% | 1.7% | 1.8% | 1.8% |
| Cost/Income | 67.3% | 60.7% | 62.6% | 61.8% | 60.5% |
| CET1 Ratio (Transitional) | 12.9% | 12.3% | 13.2% | 12.9% | 12.5% |
| CET1 Ratio (Fully-Loaded) | 12.9% | 12.3% | 13.2% | 12.9% | 12.5% |
| Leverage Ratio (Fully-Loaded) | 4.1% | 4.4% | 4.6% | 4.6% | 4.3% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 143.0% | 129.0% | 148.0% | 137.0% | 138.0% |
| Impaired Loans (Gross)/Total Loans | 3.3% | 2.9% | 2.9% | 2.8% | n/a |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 09 Feb 2026BNP remains one of the more diversified bank names in Europe. Its strong business and geographic diversification has helped it maintain good profitability and asset quality. Earnings have been resilient, with CIB a stand-out performer. Liquidity and funding metrics look sound. Asset quality has held up well, although an outlier is the group’s personal finance business. The latter is being restructured, to focus more on auto finance rather than personal lending. BNP’s capital position is tight but it has increased its target going through to 2028. It is looking to expand now in insurance and asset management, likely to grow fee income. BNP is expected higher net income in the next few years from 2025. Several litigation overhangs exist; we maintain a Rich view on its AT1.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 09, 2026
Recommendation Changed: October 30, 2018
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 05 Jan 2026ING displays robust and consistent asset quality, good earnings and a well-balanced funding profile.
These attributes are supported by its strong franchise in retail and wholesale banking in the Benelux region and its good geographic diversification.
At the same time, it has sizeable exposures to cyclical industry sectors in its Wholesale Banking division, although these have been reduced in recent years. Capital cushions are being run down over time although given higher minimum capital requirements, it recently increased its CET1 target.
Business Description
AS OF 05 Jan 2026- ING was founded in 1991 by a merger between Nationale-Nederlanden and NMB Postbank Group. It is now the largest Dutch bank by total assets.
- ING is focused on retail and commercial banking in the Benelux countries, with direct banking franchises in Germany, Spain, Italy, Australia, as well as Poland, Romania, Turkey and the Philippines.
- In April 2016, it completed the process of divesting all of its insurance business (in Europe, the US and Asia), under the Restructuring Plan conditions imposed by the European Commission after it received state aid in 2008-2009.
- In November 2016, ING announced that its resolution entity would be its holding company, ING Groep NV. ING Groep is now the issuing entity for all TLAC/MREL-eligible debt (AT1, Tier 2 and senior unsecured), and its sole operating entity is ING Bank N.V.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 05 Jan 2026In 2025, Moody’s amended the outlook on ING’s senior unsecured debt rating to Positive.
ING is looking to become more acquisitive, so it remains a candidate for M&A in the coming years. In 1H25, it increased its stake in Van Lanschot to 20.3%.
ING’s CET1 ratio will trend down towards its 13% target in the coming years, bringing it more in line with other major peers.
Key Metric
AS OF 05 Jan 2026| € mn | Y21 | Y22 | Y23 | Y24 | 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Return On Equity | 8.8% | 7.1% | 14.4% | 12.6% | 14.5% |
| Total Revenues Margin | 2.0% | 1.9% | 2.3% | 2.3% | 2.2% |
| Cost/Income | 60.5% | 60.3% | 51.2% | 53.6% | 51.1% |
| CET1 Ratio (Transitional) | 15.9% | 14.5% | 14.7% | 13.6% | 13.4% |
| CET1 Ratio (Fully-Loaded) | 15.9% | 14.5% | 14.7% | 13.6% | 13.4% |
| Leverage Ratio (Fully-Loaded) | 5.9% | 5.1% | 5.0% | 4.7% | 4.4% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 139.0% | 134.0% | 143.0% | 143.0% | 140.0% |
| Impaired Loans (Gross)/Total Loans | 1.8% | 1.7% | 1.8% | 1.9% | 1.8% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 03 Feb 2026After divesting its insurance operations, the remaining business, ING Bank, has stayed a solid Benelux-based bank with a strong direct banking arm in several countries. Profitability growth has been supported by a gradual recovery in the Dutch economy. Net interest income has been supported by volume growth – the bank looks in good shape versus several other core European banks and fee income is increasing. Capital ratios are trending downwards given distributions on offer to shareholders. In January 2025, it announced its intention to exit Russia but in September it was announced the deal has stalled; this will negative impact 2026 results. We moved from Outperform to Market perform on 6 February 2025.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 03, 2026
Recommendation Changed: February 07, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 29 Dec 2025Goldman Sachs’ performance and market share in its core legacy businesses of investment banking and sales and trading have remained very solid, working through soft periods associated with rising rates; with market conditions improving into 2025 these businesses should continue to excel.
With costs related to the exit from consumer businesses in the rear-view, recent results have reflected Goldman’s positioning for re-heating capital markets. Wealth and Asset Management is another likely area of growth in the coming years, where Goldman can leverage its strengths in HNW and alternative asset management as well as growth initiatives.
Business Description
AS OF 29 Dec 2025- Goldman Sachs is now the fifth largest bank holding company in the U.S. with approximately $1.81 tn in assets as of 3Q25 and a market capitalization of $242.8 bn as of November 24th, 2025.
- Goldman Sachs presents its activities through three business segments: Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions.
- Goldman's core strengths include equity and FICC sales & trading, investment banking, institutional investment management including alternatives, and high net worth wealth management. It has been expanding its wealth management client base, and adding other stable fee income sources which help diversify its revenue streams.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 29 Dec 2025The early 2020’s were a mixed bag– the foray into consumer lending was costly and ultimately was reversed, diverting capital and management attention and providing a meaningful drag on profitability. Goldman has re-focused on its core businesses to much recent success, though its profile will remain less diversified than large GSIB peers.
Goldman could participate in further M&A to achieve its long-term strategic goals, and recent deals have been add-on deals related to asset/wealth management.
Goldman could be impacted by various risks during periods of market turmoil, but for the most part, has been positively impacted by bouts of volatility which tend to spur more client trading activity– 2025 tariff risks being a recent example. Goldman is subject to significant market and counterparty risks as reflected in the DFAST/SCB regime.
Key Metric
AS OF 29 Dec 2025| $ mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ROAE (annual) | 21.3% | 9.7% | 7.3% | 12.0% | 13.6% |
| ROAA (annual) | 1.5% | 0.7% | 0.5% | 0.8% | 0.9% |
| PPNR / Avg. Assets | 1.86% | 1.08% | 3.29% | 3.92% | 1.25% |
| Efficiency Ratio | 54% | 65% | 282% | 266% | 61% |
| Net charge-offs (LTM) / Loans | 0.19% | 0.30% | 0.68% | 0.61% | 0.53% |
| Common Dividend Payout | 10.6% | 28.4% | 158.9% | 129.4% | 24.9% |
| CET1 Ratio | 13.6% | 15.0% | 14.4% | 15.0% | 14.3% |
| Supplementary Leverage Ratio (SLR) | 5.5% | 5.8% | 5.5% | 5.5% | 5.2% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) | 122% | 129% | 128% | 126% | 128% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 26 Jan 2026We are moving Goldman Sachs to Underperform from Market perform on valuation, seeing Bank of America as a better option at recent spread levels. We also see Goldman Sachs as among the least likely to reduce debt supply in light of lower debt requirements– Goldman’s issuance needs are far more determined by wholesale funding needs for the trading business than managing to regulatory requirements, particularly in active capital markets conditions as we have been in recently. We have no particular fundamental concerns and in fact expect Goldman to continue to benefit from the momentum in the dealmaking environment and secular growth in trading.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 26, 2026
Recommendation Changed: January 13, 2026
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 29 Dec 2025Citigroup is a solid global money center bank that has done a decent job cleaning up legacy issues and fortifying the risk profile in the wake of the GFC, though it still lags peers on several fronts including profitability.
Citi has more geographic diversification than peers owing to its international presences, though the retail side is shrinking considerably as Citi exits most of Asia and Mexico, refocusing around a global wealth management/private bank strategy.
Citi lags on the domestic deposit front, with less than half of the deposit base of money center peers and a much smaller physical footprint, though it has been focused on driving deposit flows the past couple of years.
Business Description
AS OF 29 Dec 2025- Citigroup ranks as the 3rd largest U.S. bank by total assets ($2.64 tn) at 3Q25 and 3rd largest by Total Equity ($214 bn).
- Citi currently is the 4th in terms of U.S. deposits with approximately $795.4 bn as of 3Q25 across 668 branches (S&P Capital IQ). Given the significantly smaller branch footprint, Citi does not generally possess leading market shares in most states besides South Dakota (#1).
- Citi's major business lines include U.S. consumer (mortgages and credit cards) and retail banking, global consumer, global corporate & investment banking, and global payments. The company has a plan to exit 13 international consumer markets, refocusing the non-US footprint around four regional hubs and combining wealth management and the private bank to drive synergies out of the hubs.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 29 Dec 2025Citi still lags peers on profitability (both ROA and ROTCE); CEO Fraser adopted the profitability gap as a key focus point as well, and we see Fraser’s strategic moves (e.g. int’l consumer exits, headcount reduction in management layers) as aimed at capital and expense optimization to improve ROE with some progress showing up recently.
Citi has had some regulatory mishaps in recent years but has made progress towards resolving issues.
Citi’s global footprint makes it more exposed to emerging markets and non-domestic economies; in the near-term, that could create earnings and capital volatility, though tariff-related disruptions did not ultimately negatively impact Citi in 2025.
Key Metric
AS OF 29 Dec 2025| $ mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | LTM 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ROAE (annual) | 10.9% | 7.5% | 4.5% | 6.1% | 7.0% |
| ROAA (annual) | 0.92% | 0.61% | 0.38% | 0.51% | 0.55% |
| PPNR / Avg. Assets | 1.02% | 0.97% | 3.93% | 3.56% | 4.38% |
| Efficiency Ratio | 68% | 67% | 272% | 283% | 259% |
| Net Interest Margin (Annual) | 1.94% | 2.20% | 2.37% | 2.29% | 2.34% |
| Net charge-offs (LTM) / Loans | 0.70% | 0.55% | 0.95% | 1.29% | 1.27% |
| Common Dividend Payout | 19% | 27% | 130% | 187% | 125% |
| CET1 Ratio | 12.3% | 13.0% | 13.4% | 13.6% | 13.3% |
| Supplementary Leverage Ratio (SLR) | 5.7% | 5.8% | 5.8% | 5.9% | 5.5% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) | 115% | 118% | 116% | 117% | 115% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 05 Feb 2026We are moving Citi to Market perform from Underperform, seeing decent spread value at the widest name among Big 6 GSIBs, particularly considering the context of improved profitability as well as progress on divesting itself of Banamex, the most significant step remaining in right-sizing its international exposure. We no longer see policy (i.e. tariffs) as a particular concern for Citi. Additionally we see possible technical tailwinds from lower supply as debt requirements notch downwards due to the eSLR changes that went through in late 2025.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 05, 2026
Recommendation Changed: January 13, 2026
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 29 Dec 2025JPMorgan is one of the strongest and best positioned banks to navigate the current environment, with a well-diversified business model and good competitive positioning across a variety of lending and capital markets areas.
The company continues to deploy its considerable earnings power into reinvestment, specifically around technology where we are bullish on its ability to drive competitive advantages through strategic enhancements and efficiency gains.
Business Description
AS OF 29 Dec 2025- JPMorgan ranks as the largest U.S. bank by total assets ($4.56 tn at 3Q25) and deposits ($2.55 tn at 3Q25).
- JPMorgan ranks 1st in terms of U.S. deposits with approximately $2.08 tn in deposits at YE24 across 4,970 branches (S&P Capital IQ). JPMorgan's footprint includes New York (#1), Texas (#1), California (#2), Illinois (#1), Michigan (#1), Arizona (#1), Ohio (#5), and Florida (#4), among others.
- JPMorgan's major business lines include investment banking, retail banking, card services, treasury & securities services, commercial banking, and asset & wealth management.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 29 Dec 2025Succession planning at JPMorgan has a higher profile than many peers, with CEO Dimon (68 year-old) having held the top spot for over 15 years. Another recent round of shuffling top management yielded a little clarity.
The sector is always exposed to reputational, legislative, administration, and economic risk factors. That said, JPM’s strong capital position and scale leaves it well positioned to adapt to evolving landscapes and macro conditions.
Although not likely a credit risk, JPMorgan may continue to be acquisitive around non-bank financial and ancillary services; but we would expect any deal to be conservatively funded and looking to further technology and fee income strategies (e.g. payments or asset management).
Key Metric
AS OF 29 Dec 2025| $ mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ROAE (annual) | 17.0% | 13.2% | 16.0% | 17.4% | 16.7% |
| ROAA (annual) | 1.3% | 1.0% | 1.3% | 1.4% | 1.3% |
| PPNR / Avg. Assets | 1.32% | 1.39% | 7.06% | 7.71% | 1.86% |
| Efficiency Ratio | 59% | 58% | 214% | 220% | 53% |
| Net Interest Margin (Annual) | 1.63% | 2.00% | 2.70% | 2.63% | 2.52% |
| Net charge-offs (LTM) / Loans | 0.26% | 0.25% | 0.48% | 0.63% | 0.68% |
| Common Dividend Payout | 24% | 32% | 101% | 97% | 27% |
| CET1 Ratio | 13.1% | 13.2% | 15.0% | 15.7% | 14.8% |
| Supplementary Leverage Ratio (SLR) | 5.4% | 5.6% | 6.1% | 6.1% | 5.8% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) | 110% | 110% | 113% | 113% | 113% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 29 Jan 2026We continue to view JPMorgan as the strongest and most defensive name among the Big 6 issuers, but at recent tight spread levels and considering sound fundamentals across the space, we see relatively better value at Bank of America currently. JPMorgan’s 4Q25 results showed continued solid trends, and guidance looks positive for 2026– net interest income is expected to see moderate growth and investment banking pipelines remain healthy. Profitability remains quite strong with core ROTCE around 20%, and excess capital remains robust.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 29, 2026
Recommendation Changed: January 13, 2026
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 19 Dec 2025Macquarie was tested during the global financial crisis, but managed to steer through the crisis without reporting losses. A strong balance sheet mitigated liquidity problems, but its banking unit had to turn to Australia’s central bank at that time for support.
The group has an impressive track record of managing risks and achieving good returns, and has built capabilities in a number of areas. Divestments are controlled based on market conditions. It was a beneficiary of market volatility in the commodity space in FY23-24. Its Australian mortgage book has also shown strong but sensible growth.
Business Description
AS OF 19 Dec 2025- Macquarie grew out of the Australian business of Hill Samuel, which commenced operations in 1969. Macquarie Group Ltd (MGL) is the holding company and listed entity, under which there is the banking group Macquarie Bank Ltd (MBL) which consists of the Banking & Financial Services (BFS) and Commodities & Global Markets (CGM) businesses, and a non-banking group which consists of the Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) and Macquarie Capital (MC) businesses.
- From the 1990s, the group has been associated with the "Macquarie Model" which focused on identifying cash-generating infrastructure assets & packaging them into funds that could be sold, with Macquarie taking fees as banker, arranger and asset manager.
- It acquired asset managers including Delaware Investments in the US and Blackmont Capital in Canada, boutique investment bank Fox-Pitt Kelton and specialists such as Tristone Energy (Canada). It acquired US asset manager, Waddell & Reed in April 2021, which added around US$76 bn of assets under management. It has recently sold its public AM business in the US and Europe to Nomura. Adjusting for the Nomura transaction, MAM has AUM of A$720 bn.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 19 Dec 2025Macquarie Group has sizable exposure to credit and equity risk, and so could be adversely impacted by falls in asset prices. In addition, volatile/weak markets could and has impeded its ability to exit some of its investments.
Its earnings profile partially depends on exits and therefore is lumpy in nature. It has till recently managed this risk well, but we are now cautious about its declining group capital surplus (it does not commit to a minimum level).
It is a global leader in infra investments and is well positioned for the green transition (though recently selling down these assets has proved difficult). It has been a strong beneficiary of volatility in commodity markets, a testament to its risk management capabilities.
Its banking unit was subject to enforcement action in Apr-21 by APRA over the incorrect treatment of intra-group funding arrangements resulting in an A$500 mn operational risk overlay as well as LCR and NSFR add-ons. The CGM unit also saw higher regulatory remediation-related spend more recently.
Key Metric
AS OF 19 Dec 2025| AUD mn | FY23 | FY24 | FY25 | 1H26 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Income | 19,576 | 17,071 | 17,569 | 8,720 |
| Cost/Income | 62.0% | 71.4% | 70.5% | 71.8% |
| Net Profit | 5,182 | 3,522 | 3,715 | 1,655 |
| Return on Equity | 16.9% | 10.8% | 11.2% | 9.6% |
| Total Impairments/Op Profit | 6.1% | (7.4%) | 6.6% | 1.2% |
| Annuity Business Profit Contribution | 34.2% | 36.5% | 43.6% | 51.9% |
| MBL CET1 Ratio (APRA) | 13.7% | 13.6% | 12.8% | 12.4% |
| MBL Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 214% | 191% | 175% | 173% |
| MBL Net Stable Funding Ratio | 124% | 115% | 113% | 113% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 27 Jan 2026Macquarie has a strong record of profitability since its inception. Its AM business focused on infrastructure, including green assets, is a global leader. It manages risks and returns effectively, and in FY22+23 was a large beneficiary of O&G and power price volatility. The Aus banking business has steadily gained mortgage marketshare. Large investment disposals from AM and Macquarie Capital led to a record year in FY22; strong commodities outperformance led to another record in FY23. FY24 income was affected by asset realisations and gas & power income. FY25 was helped by asset sales, 1H26 was just 3% up YoY. The group capital surplus is falling but is comfortable at the bank level. ALM is conservative. Senior spreads at both bank and group are tight. Fines from ASIC are imminent.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 27, 2026
Recommendation Changed: August 04, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Siam Commercial Bank
- Sector: Financial Services
- Sub Sector: Banks
- Country: Thailand
- Region: Thailand
- Bond: SCBTB 3.9 24
- Indicative Yield-to-Maturity (YTM): 5.573% (Indicative as of March 2)
Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 05 Dec 2025Siam Commercial Bank (SCBTB) has been a sound and profitable bank. It has a focus on the retail segment and targets to increase margins by growing its non-traditional banking businesses. It announced a major business overhaul in September 2021 to establish a new parent company called SCB X to segregate the group’s core banking services (Gen 1) from its new fintech and digital businesses and to enable greater flexibility and independence.
Recent credit costs however have been elevated due to the riskier exposure that these entail. However, profitability remains healthy and the capital buffer is strong at both the Holdco (SCB X) and Bank (SCB) level.
Business Description
AS OF 05 Dec 2025- Siam Commercial Bank was founded as the "Book Club" in 1904. In 1907, it started operating as a commercial bank and was renamed as "The Siam Commercial Bank". It completed its IPO on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 1976.
- The bank is 23.58% owned by the King of Thailand, and a further 23.32% is owned by the Vayupak Fund 1, which is controlled by the government.
- SCB is the fourth largest Thai bank by assets and is known for its robust retail franchise.
- Its loan profile was 36% corporate, 16% SME, and 48% retail as of September 2025.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 05 Dec 2025We see a significant impact to the Thai economy from potential US tariffs, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and higher credit costs than earlier guided for this year. Moody’s and Fitch have also downgraded their rating outlook on the Thailand sovereign (and consequently the Thai banks including KTB at Moody’s, which it currently rates in line with the sovereign) to negative in April and September 2025 respectively on increased risks to Thailand’s economic and fiscal strength.
The group’s business overhaul and strategic focus on retail comes with higher credit costs, particularly from the riskier target segments at the Gen 2/3 businesses. We expect a similar range for 2026 given challenges to the Thai economy including US tariffs, but SCB X’s higher NIM and low-40%s cost-income ratio provide comfortable room for that to be absorbed. We also take comfort in the ringfencing of the bank unit (SCB) from the Group’s riskier business units, and management’s minimum CET1 ratio of 16% at SCB.
Loan growth is likely to remain modest given a soft growth outlook for Thailand.
Key Metric
AS OF 05 Dec 2025| THB mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 9M25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPP ROA | 2.63% | 2.50% | 2.88% | 2.87% | 2.97% |
| ROA | 1.1% | 1.1% | 1.3% | 1.3% | 1.4% |
| ROE | 8.4% | 8.3% | 9.3% | 9.1% | 10.2% |
| Equity/Assets | 13.4% | 13.5% | 14.1% | 14.2% | 13.9% |
| CET1 Ratio | 17.6% | 17.7% | 17.6% | 17.7% | 17.7% |
| Reported NPL ratio | 3.79% | 3.34% | 3.44% | 3.37% | 3.30% |
| Provisions/Loans | 1.84% | 1.45% | 1.82% | 1.76% | 1.71% |
| Gross LDR | 93% | 93% | 99% | 97% | 94% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 202% | 216% | 217% | 212% | n/m |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 22 Jan 2026SCB is the 4th largest bank in Thailand and has a leading retail franchise. Asset quality during COVID was poor. It created a new HoldCo structure (SCBX) in 2022 to shift digital units and unsecured retail loans outside the bank, and pledged a >16% CET1 ratio at SCB. The BOT has also ringfenced SCB which further reduces the risk for the SCBTB bonds. The NIM has been strong vs. peers as expected. We expect there to still be a sizable restructured book at SCB, and higher retail exposure amid elevated household debt has resulted in credit costs staying high, but these have been comfortably absorbed. We also see a meaningful impact to the Thai economy from US tariffs, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and credit costs staying fairly elevated. We have an Underperform rec.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 22, 2026
Recommendation Changed: April 22, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 05 Dec 2025Krung Thai Bank is the 3rd largest bank by assets in Thailand, with a 55.07% state ownership through the Financial Institutions Development Fund. We see strong government support underpinning KTB’s underlying credit profile.
The state influence opens the bank up to potentially government-directed lending; it has secured an increasingly meaningful portion of banking business from government agencies and State Owned Enterprises, which underscored its one-notch upgrade by Fitch in Dec-21.
KTB was faced with asset quality challenges in the past and had the highest NPL ratio and restructured loans among the major Thai banks. It has since de-risked its loan book, and asset quality has proven to be more resilient than its peers with lower COVID-19 restructured loans.
Business Description
AS OF 05 Dec 2025- KTB is the 3rd largest bank by assets in Thailand. The Thai Financial Institutions Development Fund owns 55.07% of the bank, and has a free float of 44.93%.
- Being the largest state-owned bank, it secures a meaningful portion of banking business from government agencies and State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and per the bank, is the preferred bank for the government and SOE employees.
- Though state owned, the bank runs on a commercial basis and is not considered as a policy bank.
- KTB's loan profile comprised 47% retail, 25% private corporates, 10% SME, and 18% Government & SOEs at September 2025.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 05 Dec 2025We see a significant impact to the Thai economy from potential US tariffs, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and higher credit costs than earlier guided for this year. Moody’s and Fitch have also downgraded their rating outlook on the Thailand sovereign (and consequently the Thai banks including KTB at Moody’s, which it currently rates in line with the sovereign) to negative in April and September 2025 respectively on increased risks to Thailand’s economic and fiscal strength.
NIM pressure is set to continue into the coming quarters on the back of rate cuts to support growth, exacerbated by KTB’s domestically and large corporates focused book. Loan growth will also remain middling across the Thai banks due to a focus on quality amid the current backdrop.
However, we take comfort in KTB’s conservative focus on the government agencies/SOEs segment, which is supporting asset quality well amid the challenging environment.
Key Metric
AS OF 05 Dec 2025| THB mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 9M25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPP ROA | 1.83% | 1.98% | 2.40% | 2.48% | 2.59% |
| ROA | 0.63% | 0.94% | 1.01% | 1.23% | 1.32% |
| ROE | 6.1% | 9.2% | 9.4% | 10.8% | 11.1% |
| Equity/Assets | 10.5% | 10.9% | 11.4% | 12.3% | 12.6% |
| CET1 Ratio | 15.6% | 15.6% | 16.5% | 17.9% | 18.9% |
| Calculated NPL ratio | 3.50% | 3.26% | 3.08% | 2.99% | 2.88% |
| Provisions/Loans | 1.31% | 0.93% | 1.43% | 1.18% | 1.19% |
| Gross LDR | 99% | 98% | 104% | 100% | 94% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 196% | 201% | 202% | 207% | n/m |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 22 Jan 2026KTB is the 3rd largest bank in Thailand by assets and the largest state-owned bank. It is 55% indirectly owned by the Thai government and thus secures meaningful business from government agencies and SOEs (~20% of total loans), which has undergirded its stable asset quality during and post-COVID; it was faced with asset quality challenges in the past, but fundamentals have improved as it de-risked its loan book. We see greater NIM pressure on KTB than most peers from the turn in base rates. We also see a meaningful impact to the Thai economy from US tariffs, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and continued high credit costs. The CET1 ratio though is solid at ~18% and the loan mix is safer than peers. We have it on M/P as the $ AT1 has <1 year to call date.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 22, 2026
Recommendation Changed: April 22, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor
How may we help you?
Search topics about wealth insights and investments.Kasikornbank
- Sector: Financial Services
- Sub Sector: Banks
- Region: Thailand
- Bond: KBANK 5.458 28
- Indicative Yield-to-Maturity (YTM): 4.77%
Access this content:
If you are an existing investor, log in first to your Metrobank Wealth Manager account.
If you wish to start your wealth journey with us, click the “How To Sign Up” button.
Fundamental View
AS OF 05 Dec 2025Kasikornbank (KBANK) is a historically sound and profitable bank.
Capitalisation is strong and the bank has among the highest CASA ratios in the banking sector. Asset quality took a surprise turn for the worse in 4Q22 due to its larger SME exposure and the bank has since focused on de-risking its portfolio. Credit costs are improving but remain elevated.
Margins are high compared to most other Thai banks we cover as a result of its strong SME franchise, but the shift in growth focus to the safer but lower yielding segments has diminished its margin lead.
Business Description
AS OF 05 Dec 2025- KBank is currently the second largest bank in Thailand. It briefly was the largest from 2018 until mid-2020, upon which Bangkok Bank completed its acquisition of Indonesia's Bank Permata and took its place.
- KBank's history can be traced back to 1945 when it was first established as Thai Farmers Bank. It was listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 1976 and changed its name to Kasikornbank in 2003.
- As of September 2025, the bank's loan mix by segment consists of 41% corporate, 25% SME, 29% retail and 5% others.
- KBank is known for its strong SME franchise. It also partially owns a life insurance company, Muang Thai Life.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 05 Dec 2025We see a significant impact to the Thai economy from potential US tariffs, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and higher credit costs than earlier guided for this year. Moody’s and Fitch have also downgraded their rating outlook on the Thailand sovereign (and consequently the Thai banks including BBL at Moody’s, which it currently rates in line with the sovereign) to negative in April and September 2025 respectively on increased risks to Thailand’s economic and fiscal strength.
KBANK has a higher retail/SME loan mix and sizable restructured loans portfolio (~8.8% of total loans), so credit costs remain elevated compared to peers with guidance now revised to 165-170 bp for 2025. We expect a similar range for 2026 given challenges to the Thai economy including US tariffs, but KBANK’s higher NIM and low-40%s cost-income ratio provide comfortable room for that to be absorbed. The focus on safer segments is helping to rein in credit costs.
KBANK’s switch to focus on safer segments however will weigh on the NIM, which is compounded by more rate cuts from the BOT to support growth. The NIM currently remains higher than most of its peers.
Key Metric
AS OF 05 Dec 2025| THB mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 9M25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPP ROA | 2.38% | 2.36% | 2.52% | 2.64% | 2.59% |
| ROA | 0.98% | 0.86% | 0.99% | 1.15% | 1.19% |
| ROAE | 8.3% | 7.3% | 8.2% | 9.0% | 9.1% |
| Equity / Assets | 13.1% | 13.4% | 13.9% | 14.9% | 15.2% |
| CET1 Ratio | 15.5% | 15.9% | 16.5% | 17.4% | 18.7% |
| Gross NPL ratio | 3.76% | 3.19% | 3.19% | 3.20% | 3.19% |
| Provisions / Loans | 1.73% | 2.11% | 2.08% | 1.90% | 1.64% |
| Gross LDR | 93% | 91% | 92% | 91% | 88% |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 174% | 164% | 195% | 184% | n/m |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 22 Jan 2026Kasikornbank is the 2nd largest bank in Thailand. We are cautious about its one quarter loan book exposure to SMEs given the macro backdrop; credit costs spiked in 4Q22 mainly from the SME book and high yield small ticket lending, and the restructured loan book remains sizable. The bank however has switched to focus on safer segments, which is weighing on the historically high NIM but helped to stabilize credit costs. Credit costs remain fairly elevated but comfortably absorbed thus far. Capital is high with CET1 at ~18%. The NIM though is on a decline from lower rates, safer new loans, higher parking of funds in liquidity. We see a meaningful US tariff impact, with ripple effects in the form of lower bank NIMs and credit costs staying fairly elevated. We have an Underperform rec.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 22, 2026
Recommendation Changed: April 22, 2025
Featured Issuers
Bank of Philippine Islands
SK Hynix
Hyundai Motor