Chiba Bank reports strong first half, plans consolidation with Chiba Kogyo Bank

Chiba Bank reported a 21.7% increase in ordinary income to JPY 211,370 million and an 18.5% rise in ordinary profit to JPY 64,395 million for the first half of fiscal year 2025, ending September 30, 2025. Profit attributable to owners of parent grew 17.0% to JPY 44,222 million. Total assets decreased by JPY 687.6 bn to JPY 20,943.6 bn, while net assets increased to JPY 1,231,679 million, raising the capital assets to total assets ratio to 5.8%.

On September 29, 2025, Chiba Bank and Chiba Kogyo Bank agreed to a memorandum of understanding for a management consolidation, planning to establish a bank holding company by April 1, 2027, subject to regulatory approvals. The consolidation aims to strengthen regional financial capabilities, leveraging both banks' customer bases in Chiba Prefecture and Tokyo metropolitan areas. The holding company's shares are expected to be technically listed on the Prime Market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, with both banks' shares delisted prior to the effective date.

The earnings forecast for fiscal year 2025 remains unchanged, with ordinary profit projected at JPY 124,300 million and profit attributable to owners of parent at JPY 85,000 million. The bank also announced an interim dividend of JPY 24.00 per share and a full-year forecast of JPY 48.00 per share.