The Central Bank of Nicaragua published its December 2024 Indicators of the Banking and Finance System (SBF), reporting positive end-2024 performance with double-digit growth in credit and public deposits, continued improvements in asset quality and profitability, and liquidity and solvency remaining above regulatory limits. Over 2024, the main funding source was higher obligations to the public (NIO 22,454.5 million), supplemented by an increase in equity (NIO 5,724.4 million) and a reduction in investments (NIO 5,719.5 million), with resources primarily allocated to an increase in the gross loan portfolio (NIO 34,396.6 million). Public deposits rose 10.3% year on year to NIO 239,015.6 million, while the credit portfolio increased 19.3% to NIO 212,525.6 million; performing loans represented 94.8% of gross loans and the past-due loan ratio was 1.4% (1.7% at end-2023). Liquidity, measured as cash and cash equivalents over public deposits, stood at 32.4%; the legal reserve requirement showed overcompliance, with end-month effective rates of 23.2% in domestic currency and 15.9% in foreign currency. The SBF reported ROE of 13.7% (12.3% in December 2023), ROA of 2.4% (2.1%), and capital adequacy of 18.4% (19.1%), above the 10% legal requirement.
Central Bank of Nicaragua 2025-01-29
Central Bank of Nicaragua publishes December 2024 banking and finance system indicators showing 10.3% deposit growth and 19.3% credit expansion
The Central Bank of Nicaragua's December 2024 Indicators of the Banking and Finance System reported strong performance with double-digit growth in credit and public deposits, improved asset quality, and profitability. Liquidity and solvency remained above regulatory limits, with a liquidity ratio of 32.4% and capital adequacy at 18.4%. Public deposits rose by 10.3% to NIO 239,015.6 million, and the credit portfolio grew by 19.3% to NIO 212,525.6 million.