Punjab National Bank Reports Profit Surge Amidst Income Dip

Punjab National Bank reported a 14.4% rise in net profit for Q1 2026, despite a fall in total income. The growth was driven by higher interest income, while asset quality improved. A dividend of Rs 3 per share was recommended, pending shareholder approval at the next AGM.

In a significant development, Punjab National Bank (PNB) declared a 14.4% increase in net profit during the first quarter of 2026, achieving Rs 5,225 crore. This surge is attributed to elevated interest income, surpassing last year's Rs 4,567 crore.

Despite this, PNB experienced a decline in total income, falling to Rs 36,319 crore from the previous year's Rs 36,705 crore. The gross Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) displayed improvement, reducing to 2.95% of gross advances compared to 3.95% at the end of March 2025. Similarly, net NPAs decreased marginally to 0.29% from 0.4%.

The bank's board proposed a dividend payout of Rs 3 per equity share for FY 2025-26. This recommendation awaits endorsement from shareholders at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.