SpareBank 1 Sør-Norge ASA delivered a profit of NOK 1,993 million before tax in
the fourth quarter of 2025. Return on equity after tax was 11.9 percent for the
quarter.
The Group's preliminary annual profit amounted to NOK 8,349 million before tax,
up from NOK 7,957 million in 2024 (proforma). Return on equity after tax in 2025
was 12.8 percent.
"Throughout 2025, SpareBank 1 Sør-Norge has achieved strong financial results
and maintained good customer relationships during a demanding period. Going
forward we will be implementing measures that will make us even more
competitive. We will become more efficient, flexible, and decisive, enabling us
to continue delivering high-quality products, services, and results for the
benefit of our customers, owners, and local communities," says CEO Inge
Reinertsen.
Following a strong result for 2025, the Board of Directors of SpareBank 1
Sør-Norge ASA proposes increasing the cash dividend for the year to NOK 12.0 per
share, up from NOK 8.5 for 2024.
The cash dividend comes in addition to the Group's share buyback program,
announced in November. The formal dividend decision will be made at the
company's Annual General Meeting on 23 April 2026. Upon approval, the seven
savings bank foundations, collectively holding approximately 45 percent of the
Group, will receive NOK 2,025 million in dividends for 2025.
The target for cost synergies related to the merger and the establishment of
SpareBank 1 Sør-Norge is raised to NOK 550 million annually, up from NOK 450
million. This is linked to changes in Group management and the organization, as
announced Tuesday, 10 February. The Group had previously set a target to reduce
headcount by 100 full-time equivalents (FTEs) by the end of 2026. As a result of
the organizational changes, this target is being increased to 150 FTEs.
Growth in net interest income contributed to a stronger result in the fourth
quarter 2025, compared with the same quarter in 2024. Net interest income was
NOK 2,323 million, up from NOK 2,293 million. Twelve-month growth in the Retail
Market segment was 6.0 percent, exceeding market growth in Norway and
contributing to increased net interest income.
Net commissions and other income amounted to NOK 818 million in the fourth
quarter