The International Banking Center (IBC) closed the 2025 third quarter with results that demonstrate structural strength and financial stability despite a challenging global environment. While financial margins have narrowed, banking system profitability remains solid, supported by effective risk management and broad geographic diversification.
In terms of liquidity and solvency, Panama’s banking sector maintains a strong position. As of September 2025, the Legal Liquidity Ratio stood at 52.5%, with sustained compliance with Basel regulatory standards. Meanwhile, the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) reached 15.78%, reflecting a solid and prudent capital position that reinforces the system’s capacity to withstand potential external shocks.
Total assets of the IBC reached USD 158,793.7 million, equivalent to a year-on-year growth of 4.7%. Expansion was driven by net credit portfolios, which increased 6.1%, particularly within foreign lending (+14.9%). Deposits also grew 6.1%, with external deposits representing 40.6% of the total, while net investments increased 3.8%, remaining primarily concentrated on domestic instruments.
Regarding operating results, the IBC’s accumulated net profit totaled USD 2,228.7 million, a slight decrease of 2.4% compared to the previous year, attributable to margin compression and higher operating costs.
The credit portfolio remains the system’s main asset, accounting for 63% of total assets. Domestic lending reached USD 64,610 million, posting moderate growth of 1.2%, while international lending continues to show strong momentum, with a 14.8% increase driven mainly by transactions within the Latin American region.
Total deposits amounted to USD 113,851.9 million, up 6.1% year-on-year. Growth was led by foreign deposits (+10.6%), which account for 40.6% of the total. Time deposits explained more than 80% of the increase, consolidating their role as the main structural funding source, while demand and savings deposits also showed notable growth.
In conclusion, the IBC upholds strong fundamentals in liquidity, capital, and profitability, reflecting its resilience and capacity to navigate a complex and evolving financial landscape.
For further information, the full report is available at www.superbancos.gob.pa under the Financial and Statistical section.
