Demonstrating its ability to grow and improve profits in a challenging and competitive market, Ahlibank posted a net profit of QR537.8mn for the first nine months of 2018, up 3.8% over the corresponding period of last year.
The bank’s balance sheet grew by 3.3% over September 2017 to nearly QR39.5bn at the end of the third quarter this year.
Total customer deposits increased by 4.7% as against September 2017 to nearly QR23.7bn as the bank focused on improving liquidity during the quarter.
Total operating income increased by 2.4% to QR796mn on account of higher non-interest income.
The cost to income ratio remained stable at 28.7% during the first nine months of 2018, reflecting “efficient management” of cost drivers.
The return on average assets (ROAA) and return on average equity (ROAE) “stood solid” at 1.87% and 13.8% respectively, despite an increase in balance sheet size and equity base.
Non-Performing Loans Ratio (NPL) stood at 1.18%, with a provision coverage of 153%, indicating sound asset quality. 
These numbers are calculated after adjusting for QR146mn write off of NPLs approved by QCB. Loan Loss Provisions include IFRS 9 expected credit losses related to Stage 1 and Stage II loan portfolio.
On the results, Ahlibank chairman and managing director Sheikh Faisal bin AbdulAziz bin Jassem al-Thani stated, “Ahlibank’s financial performance demonstrates the bank’s ability to grow and improve its profits in a challenging and competitive market. We saw a continuation of the stable business performance and profitability trend. 
“Ahlibank continues to report steady and consistent income growth, while maintaining strong and diversified funding and a healthy asset quality. Ahlibank is now looking to build on the steady performance through investment in new technologies. Focus on innovation and technology have been important pillars to our strategy.”
Sheikh Faisal said, “We saw good momentum in the economic indicators. The capital spending plan remains a key driver of economic activity and the recovery in oil prices supports the country’s fiscal position and lifts the private sector sentiment. Also, we take this opportunity to thank Qatar Central Bank for their valued leadership and support.”