Sonali Bank, the largest state-owned commercial bank in Bangladesh, has reported its highest-ever net profit of Tk1,313 crore for the financial year 2025, reflecting a 33 per cent rise compared with the previous year, according to its audited financial statements.
The bank’s financial results indicate a strong dependence on investment-related income, particularly from government securities. During the year, investment income rose markedly by 55 per cent year-on-year, reaching Tk9,799 crore. This increase was primarily driven by returns from holdings in government bonds, which continued to form a significant portion of the bank’s income-generating assets.
In contrast, the bank experienced a steep decline in its core lending profitability. Net interest income fell sharply by 77 per cent to Tk337 crore. The audited report attributes this decline to lower interest earnings from borrowers alongside increased interest expenses paid on customer deposits. This combination reduced the overall contribution of traditional banking operations to the bank’s income structure.
Despite the contraction in net interest income, Sonali Bank’s overall profitability improved significantly due to the strong performance of its investment portfolio. As a result, the bank’s earnings per share (EPS) increased to Tk28.99 in 2025, compared with Tk21.82 in the previous year, reflecting improved returns for shareholders.
The results highlight a notable shift in the composition of the bank’s earnings, with investment income playing an increasingly dominant role relative to lending operations. This change in income structure has had a direct impact on the bank’s overall financial performance for the year under review.
Financial Performance Summary (2025)
| Indicator | 2025 Result | Previous Year | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net Profit | Tk1,313 crore | Not specified | +33% |
| Investment Income | Tk9,799 crore | Not specified | +55% |
| Net Interest Income | Tk337 crore | Not specified | -77% |
| Earnings Per Share (EPS) | Tk28.99 | Tk21.82 | Increase |
The audited accounts confirm that the increase in total profit was driven primarily by investment income, while lending-based earnings contracted significantly. The overall financial position reflects a divergence between the performance of the bank’s investment holdings and its traditional credit operations during 2025.