Access Bank (Ghana) Plc recorded a balance sheet of GHS 19.02 billion for the 2025 financial year. This figure represents a significant 14.9% increase from the previous year. The bank has now shifted its strategic focus from expanding its balance sheet to achieving disciplined earnings growth.
This growth was supported by continued deposit growth, expanded lending activities, and retained earnings. Customer deposits increased by 11.5% to GHS 14.54 billion. The bank's loan book saw substantial expansion, growing by 36.7% to GHS 5.06 billion, tripling its lending since 2022. Total equity also rose to GHS 2.04 billion, driven entirely by retained earnings.
This strategic shift aligns with broader trends in Ghana's banking sector, where financial institutions are increasingly prioritizing profitability and operational efficiency. The Bank of Ghana has encouraged prudent risk management and sustainable growth in a challenging economic climate. Access Bank's move reflects an adaptation to these evolving regulatory and economic realities, aiming for quality growth over sheer volume. The banking sector has faced increased scrutiny regarding loan quality and deposit mobilization in recent years.
Board Chairperson, Ama Sarpong Bawuah, acknowledged the challenging operating environment. "Despite a challenging operating business environment, Access Bank Ghana delivered a resilient performance," Ms. Bawuah stated at the 18th Annual General Meeting on June 19, 2026. She emphasized the bank's commitment to creating sustainable value for shareholders and supporting Ghana's economic development.
Going forward, Access Bank's 2026 strategic framework, dubbed 'Grow, Transform, and Protect,' will guide its operations. Under the 'Grow' pillar, the bank will deepen customer relationships, strengthen deposit mobilization, and expand quality lending. The 'Transform' pillar focuses on accelerating digital adoption and improving operational efficiency for a leaner cost model. Finally, 'Protect' will emphasize disciplined risk management, asset quality, and capital preservation. These priorities indicate a focus on consolidating gains and optimizing existing infrastructure for future profitability.
The bank's shareholders approved the Audited Financial Statements for 2025 and endorsed key board appointments during the AGM. These appointments included the re-election of Hadiza Ambursa and Yvette Adounvo Atekpe as Independent Non-Executive Directors. Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin was appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director. Eugene Ocansey became Executive Director for Retail & SME Banking, and Nana Kwabena Afoom was appointed Executive Director for Wholesale Banking. These changes aim to strengthen the bank's leadership and governance, crucial for navigating its new strategic direction.
The emphasis on risk-adjusted returns and operational efficiency suggests a more mature approach to banking in Ghana. This pivot could lead to more stable and predictable earnings for Access Bank in the long term. Other financial institutions may observe this strategy as they also seek sustainable growth in a competitive market.