Kenyan Banks Report Profit Growth as CBK Cuts Lending Rate to 9.5% - August 2025

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has reduced its base lending rate by 25 basis points to 9.5 percent, a decision effective August 12 aimed at stimulating economic activity. In related financial news, Equity Group announced a 17 percent rise in its half-year net profit to Sh34.6 billion for the period ending June 2025, driven by growth in its regional subsidiaries. Absa Bank Kenya also announced a significant 9 percent increase in its net profit, reaching KSh 11.7 billion for the first half of the year, citing strong operational resilience.