A. M. The Asociación Bancaria Salvadoreña (ABANSA) reported that salvadoran banks continue to consolidate their position as key players in the country’s economic growth, thanks to prudent management and a solid financial structure. With positive indicators of solvency, liquidity, and asset quality, the national banking system maintains its leading role in financing productive and personal activities, supported primarily by depositor confidence.
Bank lending remains an essential pillar for economic growth, with a gross loan portfolio totaling US$17,716.3 million. Of this total, 51% corresponds to business loans, which grew by 7.8%, with the construction (+23.6%), trade (+9.7%), and services (+8.7%) sectors standing out. Credit to households also shows dynamism, especially in housing (+3.6%) and personal loans (+4.6%).
Regarding deposits, the banking system registered a year-over-year increase of 11.3%, reaching US$19.678 billion. Demand deposits grew 12.6%, while term deposits increased 9.2%, reflecting public confidence and the preference for medium- and long-term savings instruments.
Digital banking has established itself as a driving force of the salvadoran economy, with more than 1.7 million interbank transfers made in the last year, representing a 59% growth. In terms of value, these transfers totaled US$1.067 billion, an increase of 32%. This progress demonstrates the growing adoption of digital channels and their positive impact on the efficiency of the financial system.
The banking system also demonstrates solid capital strength, with equity of US$2.6159 billion and a 6.4% year-over-year growth. Furthermore, the solvency ratio remains at 14.34%, above the legal minimum of 12%, reflecting adequate risk management and financial soundness.
The data confirm the resilience and dynamism of the Salvadoran banking system. Its role as a channeler of resources, promoter of financial inclusion, and facilitator of economic growth is key to the country’s sustainable development.
