NMBZ Holdings Limited has reported a steady performance for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025, supported by a relatively stable operating environment, improved exchange rate conditions and continued focus on core banking operations, according to its latest trading update.

The macroeconomic backdrop for the nine-month period was marked by easing inflationary pressures and improved money market stability. 

The Zimbabwe dollar maintained greater consistency against major currencies, with the interbank exchange rate strengthening from ZW$26.76 to the US dollar during the quarter.

“The relatively stable monetary policy stance adopted by the Central Bank in 2025 has continued to support business planning,” the group noted.

The Monetary Policy Committee maintained the policy rate and statutory reserve requirements at previously set levels to reinforce price and exchange rate stability. 

Globally, the group referenced the World Bank’s October 2025 outlook, which projects global GDP growth to moderate to 2.3 percent as major economies contend with inflation risks, geopolitical tensions and tightening financial conditions.

Through its banking subsidiary, NMB Bank Limited, the Group continued supporting key sectors of the economy by providing financing to productive industries, infrastructure and small businesses. 

“The Bank remains committed to supporting value-adding sectors of the economy through tailored lending solutions,” the update stated.

NMB’s digital transformation efforts also remained central to its growth strategy. The Group highlighted the improved uptake of its digital platforms, including xPlug, enhanced mobile banking capabilities and automated customer service tools. 

“Increased customer migration to digital channels continues to drive convenience and operational efficiency,” the company said.

The group recorded an operating income of ZW$1.3 billion, driven by increased transactional volumes, strong digital adoption and improved credit performance. 

“Our performance in the third quarter was supported by strong customer confidence and stable economic fundamentals,” NMBZ said.

Customer deposits rose significantly during the period, while the bank continued expanding its loan book, particularly within agriculture, mining, manufacturing and SME sectors. The Group added that its focus remains on maintaining asset quality. 

“We continue to uphold strict credit risk management frameworks to safeguard the Bank’s position,” the statement added.

NMB Bank reported a Tier 1 capital position of ZW$1.8 billion, comfortably above the regulatory minimum requirements. “We continue to ensure that capital levels remain within prescribed thresholds and aligned with business growth,” the company noted.

The group anticipates moderate economic growth in 2026, supported by projected stability in global commodity markets, strong gold prices and improving agricultural output. 

“Annual inflation is forecast to remain relatively low,” NMBZ wrote, citing the World Bank’s projection that inflation will fall to 12.7 percent in 2026.

“In light of the above, the group will continue to focus on supporting key sectors of the economy through its core business,” Company Secretary Violet Mutandwa said in the statement dated 14 November 2025.