SONERI Bank Limited posted a profit before tax of Rs6.5bn and profit after tax of Rs3.2bn for the half year ended 30 June 2024, as compared to Rs5.2bn and Rs2.5bn, respectively, in the same period last year, as per a press release.

This indicates a growth of 24.68pc and 26.79pc, respectively. The company also declared an interim cash dividend for the half year at 12.50 per cent, ie Rs1.25 per share.

Non-markup expenses were reported at Rs9.034bn for the current year as against Rs7.057bn reported for the comparative prior period. As at 30 June 2024, the Bank`s non-performing loans to total advances ratio has come down to 4.13pc (December 2023: 4.9pc) due to efficient results on the recovery front. •