- Historic net income of $206 million, a 24% increase year-over-year
- 25% dividend increase, reflecting confidence in the bank's growth trajectory
- Solid growth in fee income, driven by higher activity in syndications and letters of credit
PANAMA CITY, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex) (NYSE:BLX) announced today its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, achieving historic levels of profitability and business growth.
The commercial loan portfolio grew by 18%, surpassing $10 billion for the first time. Portfolio quality remained at optimal levels, with non-performing loans near zero, reflecting disciplined risk management.
Deposits grew significantly, reaching $5.4 billion, representing 54% of total funding. This increase 23% in year-end balances and 33% in average balances for the year exceeded the bank's 30% growth target.
Fee income reached a record $44 million, up 37% from 2023, driven by a 24% increase in letter of credit fees and a 38% rise in syndication fees, with total transactions exceeding $2.5 billion. This growth in fee-based revenue reflects the success of the initial implementation phase of Bladex's 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which aims to broaden and diversify income sources, ensuring a solid return on equity beyond interest rate cycles.
This performance was accompanied by 10% asset growth and efficient cost management, reflected in a 26.5% efficiency ratio.
As a result of this strong performance, Bladex achieved a record net income of $206 million, a 24% year-over-year increase, with ROE reaching 16.2%, up 153 basis points from 2023, underscoring the efficiency and profitability of its business model.
Recognizing these results, the Board of Directors approved a 25% increase in the quarterly dividend, reinforcing confidence in Bladex's growth trajectory and its commitment to delivering shareholder value.
"2024 has been a historic year for Bladex. We have exceeded our own expectations, achieving record profitability, and portfolio growth," said Jorge Salas, CEO of Bladex. "The dividend increase reflects our confidence in the bank's financial strength and ability to sustain profitable growth. Additionally, the expansion of our fee income is a clear sign that our diversification strategy is delivering results."
Looking ahead to 2025, Bladex will continue executing its strategic plan, including the launch of its digital trade finance platform in the second half of the year, further strengthening its product offering and operational efficiency.
Carlos Daniel Raad – Chief Investor Relations Officer
E-mail address: [email protected]
Tel: +507 210-8563
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SOURCE Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex)