SMEs benefit from $394M in loans from GBTI’s GROW initiative

– as bank’s newly appointed Chairman reports strong financial performance

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) has disbursed some $394 million in loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its GROW initiative, contributing to job creation and economic diversification across the country.
Launched in November 2024, GBTI GROW is the bank’s SME-focused lending platform. It offers tailored financial solutions designed to address the needs of small and medium-sized businesses to maximise their full potential.

This lending to SMEs was revealed at GBTI’s 38th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Thursday, during which shareholders reviewed a year of solid financial performance, recognised key strategic advancements, and marked a significant leadership transition with the appointment of a new Chairman, Suresh Beharry.
In delivering his first Chairman’s address, Beharry reported that GBTI recorded a profit after tax of $4.5 billion in 2025, representing an 8.2 per cent increase over 2024 – something that was driven by disciplined expansion of the loan portfolio, strong deposit growth, and continued operational efficiency.
The bank’s total assets grew to $313 billion, while customer deposits increased to $268.6 billion, representing a 28.5 per cent increase. The loan portfolio expanded by 17.9 per cent, and asset quality remained stable with a non-performing loan ratio of 4.12 per cent.

GBTI also declared a total dividend of $41 per share, up from $32 per share in the previous year, reinforcing its commitment to delivering value to shareholders. The bank also maintained a strong capital adequacy ratio of 16.42 per cent, well above regulatory requirements.
It was noted that GBTI’s performance was underpinned by several strategic developments, including the expansion of GO Banking digital services and the rollout of real-time card payment capabilities; the implementation of Digital Account Opening and Retail Loan Onboarding, enabling customers to apply for accounts and loans online; the expansion of the credit card portfolio and the launch of the Mastercard Debit Card; and the expansion of the Mon Repos Branch to deliver a full suite of banking products and services.
Meanwhile, the recent AGM also reflected on the leadership transition following the tenure of former Chairman, Robin Stoby, SC, who stepped down after two decades of distinguished service. His contribution to the bank’s growth and transformation was acknowledged, and his continued presence on the board ensures ongoing strategic guidance.
During the meeting, shareholders voted to re-elect Directors Suresh Beharry, Kathryn Eytle-McLean, and Richard Issava, demonstrating continued confidence in the bank’s leadership and governance.
Looking ahead, GBTI will continue to deepen its focus on digital innovation, customer-centric growth, and data-driven decision-making as it supports Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy and evolving financial landscape.
Thursday’s AGM came just days after GBTI reported a profit after tax of $1.6 billion for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a 36.8 per cent increase compared with the same period last year.
According to the bank’s unaudited financial results released on Monday, earnings per share rose to $39.76, up 37 per cent from $29.03 in the first quarter of 2025. GBTI said total revenue for the period reached $4.1 billion, representing a 21.3 per cent increase year-over-year. Interest income climbed to $2.9 billion from $2.5 billion, while other income rose to $1.2 billion from $930 million.
The bank also reported growth in customer deposits, which increased to $284 billion, up 20.4 per cent compared with the corresponding period last year. Total assets stood at $330 billion at the end of the quarter, continuing an upward trend from $278 billion in the first quarter of 2025 and $208 billion in the first quarter of 2024.
GBTI’s capital adequacy ratio was reported at 18.5 per cent, while its common equity tier one ratio stood at 16.1 per cent. Beharry said the bank’s strong first quarter performance was supported by earnings growth, prudent balance sheet management, and solid capital levels. He added that the increase in profits and earnings per share reflects the bank’s strategic initiatives and operating model, while deposit growth demonstrates customer confidence in the institution.
Going forward this year, the Chairman noted that the bank remains focused on sustaining profitable growth, expanding its digital services, strengthening client relationships, and maintaining financial discipline.