Ghana’s banking sector continues to demonstrate resilience, even as total assets show signs of moderation. In October 2025, non-performing loans (NPLs) fell to 19.5%, down from 20.4% in September, marking a steady improvement in loan quality.
Excluding the “loss” category, NPLs remained stable at 6.8%, highlighting that the majority of banks’ portfolios continue to perform well.
At the same time, the capital adequacy ratio (CAR) remained strong at 17.9%, slightly below the 20.3% peak recorded mid-2025 but well above regulatory minimums. This signals that banks still maintain solid buffers to absorb potential losses, ensuring the sector’s stability despite a more cautious lending environment.
The trend over the past year shows a steady improvement in financial health. Total assets rose from GHC 367.2 billion in October 2024 to a high of GHC 428.6 billion in September 2025, before dipping slightly to GHC 423.3 billion in October.
Similarly, total deposits increased from GHC 277.3 billion to GHC 309.8 billion during the year, before easing slightly to GHC 302.0 billion in October. Total advances also improved, reaching GHC 103.1 billion in October 2025, reflecting a gradual recovery in lending.
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The combination of falling NPLs, solid capital buffers, and growing lending activity demonstrates that banks are managing risk prudently while supporting economic activity. Even as liquidity tightens, partly due to measures to fight inflation, the sector shows that growth and stability can coexist.
October’s dip in total assets may suggest a temporary pause in expansion, but the improving quality of loans and resilient capital ratios highlight a sector that remains well-positioned to navigate challenges.
