Majority Of Zimbabwean Banks Maintain Healthy Capital Buffers

Most Zimbabwean banking institutions have surpassed the minimum regulatory capital requirements, underscoring the safety, resilience, and stability of the country’s financial system, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ).

Of the 19 operational banking institutions, 17 reported core capital levels above the required thresholds, signalling a well-capitalised and robust banking sector.

Presenting the 2025 Mid-Term Monetary Policy Review Statement on Thursday, RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu highlighted that top-tier banks such as CBZ Bank, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, Ecobank Zimbabwe, and CABS are in a strong financial position, maintaining substantial buffers above the RBZ’s minimum capital requirements.

CBZ Bank led the sector with a core capital of Z$5.74 billion (US$213 million), more than seven times the minimum requirement of US$30 million.

Stanbic Bank followed with US$154.6 million, while Ecobank Zimbabwe and CABS reported US$124.9 million and US$118.7 million, respectively.

Under current RBZ regulations, commercial banks are required to hold at least US$30 million in core capital, while building societies and other deposit-taking institutions must maintain a minimum of US$20 million.

Of the 18 institutions assessed, 13 comfortably exceeded the US$30 million benchmark, reflecting widespread regulatory compliance and financial stability.

A few institutions, including ZB Building Society (US$5.1 million), FBC Building Society (US$25.5 million), and National Building Society (US$40.2 million), operated close to or slightly below the thresholds. Nevertheless, the sector as a whole remains strongly capitalised. Said Mushayavanhu:

“Time Bank, registered as a commercial bank and with reported core capital equivalent to US$3,8 million as at June 30, 2025, was authorised to re-commence limited commercial banking activities (without taking deposits) in August 2022.

“The banking institution is not authorised to take deposits.

“ZB Building Society resolved to surrender its operating licence and processes are currently underway to address outstanding administrative and regulatory issues.”

More: The Herald