The bank announces additional interim cash dividend of Rs8 per share after reporting higher earnings.

KARACHI: Meezan Bank Limited, Pakistan’s largest Islamic bank, on Wednesday reported a net profit of Rs48.87 billion for the first half of the calendar year 2026 (1HCY26), reflecting steady growth in earnings amid higher total income.

According to the bank’s consolidated financial results submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), net profit increased from Rs46.16 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.

The bank’s total revenue rose to Rs128.78 billion during the January–June 2026 period, compared with Rs125.75 billion in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, total income increased to Rs150.41 billion in 1HCY26, up from Rs141.67 billion a year earlier, supported by growth in the bank’s core operations.

Operating expenses, however, also increased during the review period. The bank reported operating expenses of Rs43.16 billion, compared with Rs33.63 billion in the first half of 2025.

Consequently, total expenses rose to Rs45.25 billion in 1HCY26 from Rs35.85 billion in the corresponding period last year.

Meezan Bank’s income tax expense declined to Rs53.67 billion during the first half of 2026, compared with Rs56.27 billion paid in the same period of 2025.

The Board of Directors also announced an interim cash dividend of Rs8 per share (80%) for the half-year ended June 30, 2026. This is in addition to the interim cash dividend of Rs7.50 per share (75%) already paid earlier, taking the total interim dividend declared so far this year to Rs15.50 per share (155%).

Meezan Bank has continued to maintain its position as Pakistan’s leading Islamic financial institution, supported by a growing customer base, expanding branch network and strong demand for Shariah-compliant banking products.

The latest financial results reflect the resilience of the banking sector despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, with the bank continuing to deliver stable profitability while rewarding shareholders through generous cash dividends.