Accra: Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC has paid out a significant dividend of GHS97.8 million to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) for the financial year 2025. This payment forms a part of the bank's overall dividend distribution, which totals an impressive GHS673.95 million, following an agreement reached during the bank's 56th Annual General Meeting held in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the bank announced a final dividend of GHS4.98 per ordinary share, amounting to GHS672.35 million, accompanied by a GHS1.13 million preference share dividend during its most recent general meeting. The dividend distribution to SSNIT is intended to bolster its liquidity, thereby aiding the Trust in fulfilling its pension obligations while also providing a return on one of its listed equity investments.
Mr. Xorse Godzi, the Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC, emphasized the importance of the bank's relationship with SSNIT, highlighting the indirect stake Ghanaian workers hold in the bank through the pension fund manager. He noted the crucial role SSNIT plays in ensuring financial security for the future of the average worker in Ghana, thereby reinforcing the bank's commitment to contributing positively to the future of Ghanaian workers.
Kwesi Afreh Biney, Director-General of SSNIT, stressed the importance of improving investment returns as a primary strategy for the Trust. He acknowledged the contributions of Standard Chartered in providing capital appreciation through its listed shares and direct cash returns via dividends, which facilitate the core function of pension payments.
Furthermore, Mr. Biney praised Standard Chartered as a pivotal investment within SSNIT's portfolio, citing its strong dividend performance on the Ghana Stock Exchange.
As Standard Chartered celebrates its 130th anniversary of continuous operations in Ghana, its commitment to cross-border banking, wealth management, trade, and infrastructure financing remains steadfast, reflecting its long-standing presence and influence in the Ghanaian financial landscape.