StanChart Saadiq sees slower growth, focuses on wealth and cross-border business

Standard Chartered Saadiq Bhd expects to build on its strong 2025 growth but has tempered its ambition for balance sheet expansion this year, focusing instead on cross-border banking and wealth management. The bank does not expect the Middle East conflict to directly impact its portfolio in Malaysia, though it set aside a prudent overlay in the first quarter. Net profit for FY2025 rose 80.7% to RM83.81 million, but fell 81.6% in 1Q2026 due to a group-wide credit loss overlay.