United Capital PAT up 64% to ₦5.9bn in Q1'25

United Capital Group, a leading investment management firm, has reported a remarkable 64% increase in profit after tax (PAT) to ₦5.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a substantial 113% growth in gross earnings. The Net Operating Income also saw a significant surge of 188% to ₦12.37 billion in the same period. Ejikeme Okoli, the Director of Africa Operations at United Capital Group, shared insights on the company's performance, key drivers, and strategies to sustain growth in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Okoli attributed the impressive financial results to the company's business model as global investment managers. He highlighted the growth in income from managed funds, which surpassed a trillion naira for the first time, reaching over $6 billion. Additionally, prudent financial decisions, such as reducing expensive borrowed funds, contributed to the positive performance. The discussion also revolved around the current global uncertainties impacting fund managers and investors. Okoli emphasized the importance of safety and trust, values that United Capital stands for as a seasoned player in the Nigerian financial market for over six decades. Despite the ongoing market volatility, Okoli reassured investors that Nigeria still presents promising opportunities, with high-interest rates offering lucrative returns for discerning investors. Regarding the predictability of the economic environment, Okoli expressed confidence in the Nigerian government's policies and the transparency of the Central Bank's operations. He emphasized the importance of trust in decision-making and highlighted the relative stability of exchange rates in Nigeria compared to global markets. With interest rates at 27.5% and inflation manageable, Okoli suggested that the Nigerian market remains favorable for investors. In conclusion, United Capital's robust performance in the first quarter of 2025 reflects the company's resilience and strategic financial management amidst global uncertainties. As the company continues to prioritize safety, trust, and prudent decision-making, investors can look forward to maximizing their financial resources in the Nigerian market.