Months after acquiring a majority stake in Ecobank Mozambique, Malawi Stock Exchange-listed FDH Bank has unveiled plans to consolidate its footing in the region as part of its growth strategy.
FDH Bank Managing Director Noel Mkulichi told delegates to the bank’s Investors Forum in Blantyre on Tuesday that the wholly Malawians -owned financial institution intended to further explore opportunities in other regional markets.
Last year, the bank announced to have secured a 98.9 percent stake in Ecobank Mozambique SA (EMZ) through a definitive agreement with Ecobank Transnational Incorporated. The remaining 1.13 percent stake in EMZ is held by Fundo Para O Fomento De Habitação (FFH), a Mozambican housing development fund.
In his address, Mkulichi rated the move as ideal in its regional expansion strategy.
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He said the transaction was expected to generate significant strategic benefits, including market expansion through entry into a high‑growth financial services market, revenue diversification across multiple geographies, operational synergies through the integration of systems, processes and group capabilities, long-term value creation for shareholders and other stakeholders.
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“Focus has been on stabilising the institution and strengthening controls. Focus now is on growth,” he said.
During the meeting, the company announced to have doubled its post-tax for the year ended December 2025 to K147.7 billion from K74 billion the year before.
Minority Shareholders Association of Listed Companies Secretary General Frank Harawa hailed the bank for what he rated as an outstanding performance and systematic and strategic growth trajectory.
Meanwhile, going forward, Mkulichi said the domestic economic outlook for 2026 was expected to improve modestly despite ongoing challenges, including foreign currency shortages and subdued growth.
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He said planned fiscal consolidation and potential reductions in policy and interest rates may impact future interest income.
FDH Bank Board Chairperson Charity Mseka said the bank would continue to execute its 2024-26 strategic objectives, leveraging its strong market position, extensive distribution network, robust digital platform, established brand equity and solid financial performance.
“The bank remains committed to delivering sustained value to its customers, shareholders and other stakeholders by growing revenue and market share, improving operating efficiency to enhance sustainable performance and profitability, fostering a highly engaged workforce and contributing meaningfully to an inclusive, diverse and sustainable society,” she said.
FDH Financial Holdings Limited owns 74.05 percent shareholding in the bank while the public owns 20 percent stakes. 4.75 percent shareholding is owned by Malawi Government and 0.4 percent by employees.
