Bank Leumi Le-Israel B.M reported a return on tangible equity of 15.1% for the fourth quarter of 2025, driven by solid fee revenue and expanded lending volumes, according to an equity research note released Wednesday. The bank confirmed it met its 2025 objectives and unveiled a new set of financial targets covering 2026-27.
The updated targets call for annual net income in the range of NIS 10 billion to NIS 12 billion, a return on equity of 14.5% to 16.0% per year, and a payout ratio of 50% to 65% of net income each year. Loan growth is targeted at 8% to 10% per annum. These goals replace the prior guidance for 2025-2026 that had indicated annual profits of NIS 9 billion to NIS 11 billion with a 50% payout ratio.
The bank commented on the military operation in Iran, stating that if the operation materially reduces the threat to Israel, it would likely have positive implications for the growth potential of the domestic economy. At present, Leumi said there is no effect on its reported results, capital ratios or liquidity position.
Earnings and margins
Net interest income fell 14% quarter-over-quarter and was unchanged on a year-over-year basis. Management attributed the quarter-on-quarter decline primarily to a sizable swing in the consumer price index contribution compared with the prior quarter. The reported net interest margin for the quarter was 231 basis points, a decline of 13 basis points from the previous quarter.
Non-interest income increased 2% sequentially but declined 12% compared with the same quarter in the prior year. Within that category, fees and commissions were a relative bright spot, rising 10% quarter-over-quarter and 7% year-over-year.
Costs, credit and operating efficiency
Total operating expenses rose 6% sequentially and fell 1% versus the year-ago quarter, reflecting in part elevated investment spending on technology and artificial intelligence initiatives. The cost-to-income ratio for the quarter was 32%.
The bank recorded a net credit charge of NIS 150 million in the quarter, producing a cost of risk of 12 basis points. Non-performing loans represented 0.40% of the portfolio, with a coverage ratio of 325%.
Balance sheet trends
Overall lending expanded 5% quarter-over-quarter and 14% year-over-year. Mortgage lending increased 2% sequentially and 7% from a year earlier. Corporate lending rose 8% quarter-over-quarter and 18% year-over-year, while small business lending climbed 14% versus the prior quarter and 24% year-over-year.
Deposits grew 7% sequentially and 11% year-over-year, with institutional bodies deposits contributing strongly, up 12% quarter-over-quarter and 23% year-over-year.
Common equity tier 1 capital stood at 12.05%, down 30 basis points from the prior quarter, a reduction the bank said was mainly attributable to the share buyback announced in the third quarter. Risk-weighted assets increased 4% quarter-over-quarter and 11% year-over-year.
Shareholder returns and tangible book value
Leumi declared a fourth quarter dividend of NIS 0.9 per share and executed a share buyback of NIS 382 million, producing an approximate payout ratio of 65% for the period. Tangible book value per share reached NIS 45.6, representing a 13% increase year-over-year.
The bank's guidance and the mix of capital actions underscore a dual focus on returning capital to shareholders and supporting loan growth while investing in technology and artificial intelligence capabilities.