Equity Group emerges Kenya’s most valuable brand in global ranking

Equity Group Holdings, led by Kenyan banker James Mwangi, has emerged as Kenya’s most valuable brand, underlining its growing influence in East Africa’s banking sector and its appeal to customers, according to a new global ranking by Brand Finance.

The UK-based consultancy, in its latest Global 500 report, placed Equity Group at the top among Kenyan brands with a valuation of $554 million. The recognition comes as the lender also ranks as Kenya’s second most valuable listed firm, with a market capitalization of $2.2 billion on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, behind Safaricom Plc.

Brand Finance said the ranking reflects customer perception of the bank and its growth prospects. It builds on earlier assessments that pointed to Equity Group’s expanding presence beyond Kenya. In 2024, the firm ranked Equity Group as the world’s second-strongest banking brand, with a Brand Strength Index score of 92.5 out of 100 and an AAA+ rating.

Equity profit jumps on regional growth

The latest accolade comes as Equity posts strong financial results for its 2025 fiscal year, supported by its expansion across the region. It reported a 54.6 percent increase in profit, rising from Ksh46.55 billion ($359.22 million) in 2024 to Ksh71.96 billion ($555.37 million).

Executives point to the bank’s regional operations as a key driver of that growth. Subsidiaries in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo accounted for 45.5 percent of total earnings, showing how income is becoming more balanced across markets.

Revenue growth was supported by both lending and fees. Interest income edged up 2.9 percent to Ksh173.64 billion ($127.93 million) from Ksh170.29 billion ($125.46 million). Non-interest income rose 6.7 percent to Ksh90.8 billion ($700.8 million) from Ksh85.07 billion ($656.59 million), helped by higher fees, commissions and dividend income.

Equity boosts deposits, pilots pharmacy venture

Customer deposits also increased, rising 3.9 percent to Ksh1.46 trillion ($11.23 billion) from Ksh1.399 trillion ($10.8 billion), reflecting gains in both retail and corporate banking. The group maintained a strong liquidity position, with a ratio of 64.7 percent, well above the 20 percent regulatory minimum. Cash and balances stood at Ksh74.38 billion ($574.13 million).

Beyond banking, Equity is widening its reach into healthcare through its Equity Afia network. The group has begun testing a pharmacy business, starting with its first outlet, as it looks for ways to manage treatment costs for patients and insurers.

By sourcing and selling medicines directly, the lender aims to lower prices at its clinics and improve the availability of essential drugs. Over time, it expects the move could help reduce insurance costs for its customers while strengthening its presence in healthcare.