Core Insights - Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior (BLADEx) reported a strong performance in 2025, achieving record results for the fourth consecutive year, driven by double-digit portfolio growth and a shift towards fee-based income despite a declining interest-rate environment [4][7]. Financial Performance - The bank's net income for 2025 was $227 million, reflecting a 10% year-over-year increase, with a return on equity (ROE) of 15.4% and an adjusted ROE of 15.8% [3][7]. - In Q4, the bank generated $56 million in net income, described as one of the strongest quarters in its history, supported by interest and fee income [2][7]. Portfolio and Growth - The total credit portfolio grew by 12% to $12.6 billion, with approximately $800 million in loan growth (10%) and a 21% increase in contingent business [1][6]. - Management targets a commercial portfolio growth of 13-15% for 2026, with net interest margin (NIM) expected around 2.3% and ROE between 14% and 15% [5][17]. Income Sources - Net interest income rose by 5% year-over-year, reaching a record level, while non-interest income surged by 54%, now accounting for approximately 19-20% of total revenue [5][13]. - The bank's fee-generating activities, particularly in trade finance and structuring, contributed significantly to non-interest income, with fees from letters of credit and guarantees totaling $31.8 million in 2025 [13][18]. Asset Quality and Capital Management - Asset quality remained strong, with Stage 1 exposures at 98.2% of the credit portfolio and a total allowance for credit losses of $107 million, representing 276% of impaired credits [15][16]. - The bank's capital structure was strengthened through its first AT1 issuance in September 2025, with a Tier 1 capital ratio of 17.4% and a regulatory capital adequacy ratio of 15.5% [16][17]. Funding and Deposits - Deposits increased by 22% year-over-year, representing 62% of total funding, supported by a $1.5 billion Yankee CD program [6][8]. - The bank's funding sources were diversified through transactions such as a Costa Rican colones issuance and a $150 million global syndicated loan [9].