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DBSA Posts R7.8bn Profit and Secures Unqualified Audit

Improved lending margins and cost cuts boosted earnings even as credit stress and global shocks raise repayment risk

Overview

  • The Development Bank of Southern Africa reported a net profit of R7.8 billion for the year ended 31 March 2026, driven by higher net interest income and a 45% rise in sustainable earnings.
  • Total assets grew to R130 billion and operating income reached R10.6 billion, while the bank improved its debt-to-equity position and cut its cost-to-income ratio.
  • DBSA delivered R62.4 billion in infrastructure support, disbursed R20.7 billion in loans and equity, and funded new and refurbished schools that benefited over 25,000 pupils and nearly 20,000 jobs.
  • The Auditor-General issued an unqualified, clean audit and reported no material non-compliance, while the bank said irregular expenditure was negligible and targeted discipline for isolated misconduct.
  • Management warned that rising non-performing loans, elevated municipal and sovereign vulnerabilities and spillovers from the Middle East conflict could raise costs and weaken borrowers' ability to repay.