Arab Bank Group reported record growth in 2013 in spite of the challenging environment in the region. Net operating income before provisions and taxes exceeded the one billion U.S. dollars, whereas the group’s net profit after tax reached USD 501.9 million at the end of 2013 compared to USD 352.1 million at the end of 2012 showing a growth of 43%.

The Board of Directors has recommended distributing cash dividends of 30% for the financial year ended December 2013 and one free share for each fifteen shares.

The bank has shown consistent solid growth over the last three years with profits growing from USD 305.9 million in 2011 to USD 352.1 million in 2012 to USD 501.9 million in 2013. Dividends payouts have also increased from 25% in 2011 to 30% in 2012 to 37% in 2013.

Loans grew by 3% from USD 22.5 billion in 2012 to USD 23.1 billion in 2013 and customer deposits grew by USD 1.5 billion from USD 32.9 billion in 2012 to USD 34.4 billion in 2013, a growth of 5%. Liquidity remains a key pillar of strength for Arab Bank with a loan to deposit ratio of 67.1% and the capital adequacy ratio is maintained at a solid 15.15%.

Sabih Masri, Chairman of Arab Bank, commented that the solid growth reflects the bank’s prudent policies and strategic initiatives and the confidence the bank’s customers have in Arab Bank.

Nemeh Sabbagh, CEO of Arab Bank, explained that the bank was able to achieve several key strategic objectives in 2013 despite the challenges that emerged during the year. The bank has grown its net profit not only by increasing operating revenues but also by controlling operating expenses.

Sabbagh added that the bank has continued to improve the quality of the credit portfolio with the provisions coverage ratio for non-performing loans in excess of 100%, excluding the value of collaterals held.

Sabih Masri concluded by stating that he is "confident that the bank will continue to show strong performance notwithstanding the challenging regional environment." The bank’s results are subject to Central Bank of Jordan final approval.