CIMB Group reported a net profit of approximately MYR 1.916 billion for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, down about 2.9% from MYR 1.973 billion in the same period last year [1, 2, 3]. Group operating income slipped 1.6% year-on-year to around MYR 5.4 billion [2, 3].

The bank's net interest margin (NIM) decreased by 2 basis points, causing net interest income to fall 5% quarter-on-quarter to about MYR 3.7 billion [1, 2, 3]. However, NIM showed early signs of stabilizing, rising 1 basis point in Malaysia, 12 basis points in Singapore, and 5 basis points in Thailand quarter-on-quarter [1, 2, 3]. Non-interest income increased 11.9% quarter-on-quarter, boosted by stronger trading and foreign exchange revenue [1, 2, 3].

Operating expenses declined 5.5% quarter-on-quarter, helping reduce the cost-to-income ratio to 47.2% [2, 3]. The CASA ratio rose to 43.3%, with total CASA balances expanding, supporting stable liquidity [1, 2, 3]. Asset quality remained steady with a gross impaired loans ratio of 1.7% [1, 2, 3]. The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio stood at a strong 14.3% [1, 2, 3].

Profit by business segment varied. Consumer banking profits fell 23% year-on-year to around MYR 654 million due to higher provisions and compressed margins [1]. Commercial banking profits rose 38.2% to about MYR 604 million, driven by stronger recoveries [1]. Wholesale banking profit dropped 10% to approximately MYR 931 million mainly because of lower one-time income, although digital assets and group financing revenue grew 11.1% to MYR 410 million, supported by TNG Digital [1].

CIMB has a capital return plan totaling MYR 2 billion and is targeting a 7 basis point reduction in funding costs [1]. The bank did not declare a dividend for the quarter [1]. CEO Novan Amirudin expressed cautious optimism, highlighting resilience from balance sheet management and core market activity. He said, "We are encouraged by the resilience of performance and the early signs of net interest margin stabilization, enabled by disciplined balance sheet management and sustained customer activity in core markets. We will continue to focus on strict funding management, strengthen financing channels, and streamline the organization to deliver sustainable long-term returns" [1].

CIMB publicly released these Q1 results and CEO statements on May 26, 2026, when its share price closed slightly down at MYR 7.71, a 0.26% decline [1].