Best bank 2025: Banco Lafise Bancentro
Banco Lafise Bancentro (BLB) has earned its place as Nicaragua’s best bank in 2024, delivering exceptional financial performance, strategic growth and digital innovation. With assets reaching $2.28 billion and a 24% increase in its loan portfolio, BLB solidified its position as the country’s second-largest bank, commanding 23.6% of total banking system assets.
BLB served over 1 million individuals – 27% of Nicaragua’s working-age population – and welcomed 1,500 new businesses, reinforcing its role as a key driver of economic development. The bank’s digital channels processed transactions equivalent to 2.7 times the country’s nominal GDP, with 61% conducted through alternate platforms like Bancanet and ATMs.
Financially, BLB achieved a five-year high in net profits, reaching $56 million – a 37% increase year-on-year. Its return on equity rose to 15.8%, and return on assets to 2.5%, outperforming industry averages. With a capital adequacy ratio of 16.9% and a portfolio-at-risk reduced to 5%, BLB demonstrated strong risk management and financial resilience.
BLB’s success is rooted in operational efficiency, strategic leadership and a commitment to serving Nicaragua’s evolving financial needs. Its achievements in 2024 underscore its role as a trusted, innovative and high-performing institution in the country’s banking landscape.
