According to a report by Philstar Biz, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) posted a first-half net profit of P24.9 billion, inching up from the same period last year.
The bank attributed the broadly flat performance to stronger interest income, which was partly offset by weaker trading gains and higher provisions for potential credit losses. Metrobank, one of the Philippines' largest lenders, said its core lending business remained resilient despite the mixed results.
The modest earnings growth reflects the bank's efforts to balance revenue generation with prudent risk management, as it set aside more funds to cover potential defaults. Analysts view the results as stable, with the bank maintaining its position in a competitive banking sector.