Ranking of Africa's Biggest Banks in 2025

The African banking sector has witnessed significant growth and transformation in 2025, as revealed in the African Economic Outlook 2025 report. The sector, a major driver of economic growth, has seen a 0.6 percent increase in Africa's overall economic growth, with the continent's GDP projected to reach 3.9 percent by the end of the year.

One of the key players in this thriving market is Standard Bank Group, Africa's largest bank by assets, with a total portfolio value worth $180 billion. The group, which had the largest balance sheet among African banks in 2025, saw its total assets reach approximately 1,556 billion (currency not specified) according to their 2025 financial figures.

Not far behind is Access Holdings Plc, a diversified financial services powerhouse with over $72 billion in assets. The bank has been a strong player in the African market, leveraging its robust assets portfolio to provide a wide range of financial services.

In Southern Africa, Nedbank Group, a key player in the region's financial landscape, has a total asset of $70 billion. The bank has been focusing on digital transformation and customer-centric strategies to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving market.

In North and West Africa, Attijariwafa Bank, a dominant force, has total assets valued at $95 billion. The bank has been aggressive in its digital-first strategy, introducing cross-border payment platforms and customized Islamic banking solutions for African consumers and enterprises.

Another significant player in the region is Zenith Bank, based in Nigeria, one of the largest banks in Africa, although its total asset details are not provided in the text.

In Egypt, two banks stand out for their size and influence – Banque Misr, one of the country's largest state-owned banks, with a total assets value of $90 billion, and the National Bank of Egypt, which boasts an asset portfolio of $105 billion. Both banks have prioritized enhanced trade finance services and digital transformation to strengthen their regional leadership.

FirstRand Group, the parent company of FNB, RMB, and WesBank, has a robust assets portfolio of $125 billion. In 2025, the group solidified its number two position on the continent with this aggressive digital-first strategy and regional growth.

Lastly, Absa Group Limited, a pan-African powerhouse, has a total assets worth $110 billion. The bank has been focusing on ESG-focused investments, green lending, and expanding access to credit for underserved communities.

The African banking market is projected to reach over $205.53 billion by the end of 2025, reflecting the continued growth and potential of the sector. As banks become stronger, more resilient, and increasingly competitive, investor and customer confidence across the globe continues to grow. African banks have experienced significant growth in brand value, with an average increase of 22% across various markets.

In conclusion, the African banking sector is thriving, with major players like Standard Bank, FirstRand, Nedbank, Attijariwafa Bank, Zenith Bank, Banque Misr, and the National Bank of Egypt leading the way in digital transformation, regional growth, and customer-centric strategies. The sector's continued growth and potential make it an exciting area to watch in the coming years.