According to the African Economic Outlook 2025 report released by the African Development Bank Group, the continent’s economy is projected to increase from 3.3 percent growth in 2024 to 3.9 percent by the end of 2025. The report further reveals that the banking sector, which is undergoing a dynamic transformation, is a major driver of economic growth. 

Fueled by rapid digitalization, regional integration, and a renewed focus on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, African banks are at the forefront of the economic revolution experienced across the continent. Within the past decade, banks in Africa have solidified their positions through robust asset growth, strategic expansions, and technology-driven services, which has led to a rebound from global shocks and accelerated efforts toward financial integration. 

Banks in Africa have become stronger, more resilient, and increasingly competitive, leading to more investor and customer confidence across the globe. Below, we have listed the ten largest banks in Africa, measured by their total assets, dominance in the African financial landscape, and innovation across the continent. Check them out!

With a total asset of $70 billion, Nedbank remains a key player in Southern Africa’s financial landscape, offering a full suite of services including retail, corporate, wealth management, and investment banking. In 2025, Nedbank earned accolades for its leadership in sustainable finance and pioneering efforts in green bond issuance.

Access Holdings, the parent company of Access Bank, has transformed into a diversified financial services powerhouse with over $72 billion in assets and growing interests in insurance, pensions, and asset management. Its recent expansion into East Africa and innovative fintech partnerships have enhanced its continental reach.

With headquarters in Lome, Togo, Ecobank is a pan-African Bank operating in 33 countries, and with a total asset of $72 billion. Ecobank is one of the strongest pan-African brands and is recognized as the most geographically diverse bank in the continent. With a strong focus on financial inclusion and mobile banking, the bank is a top choice for cross-border transactions and SME services across West, Central, and East Africa.

Zenith Bank has continued to dominate Nigeria’s banking landscape with regional influence across West Africa and has built an impressive assets portfolio of $78 billion. Known for its corporate and investment banking strength, Zenith launched a blockchain-based trade settlement system in 2025 to enhance cross-border trade efficiency.

As one of Egypt’s largest state-owned banks, Banque Misr has stepped up its pan-African role by financing key development projects backed by a total assets value of $90 billion. In 2025, it advanced its digital infrastructure and introduced financing tools tailored to African markets.

A dominant force in North and West Africa, Attijariwafa Bank has expanded into over 25 countries, spreading its total assets valued at $95 billion. Its 2025 initiatives included cross-border payment platforms and customized Islamic banking solutions for African consumers and enterprises.

The National Bank of Egypt, with an asset portfolio of $105 billion, remains a key player in funding infrastructure and driving financial inclusion in North Africa. Its digital transformation and enhanced trade finance services have strengthened its regional leadership in 2025.

Formerly a Barclays Africa subsidiary, Absa has emerged as a pan-African powerhouse with a strong presence in 12 countries, and a total assets worth $110 billion. In 2025, it prioritized ESG-focused investments, green lending, and expanded access to credit for underserved communities.

The parent group of FNB, RMB, and WesBank, FirstRand has maintained its diversified edge across banking, insurance, and investment services, boasting a robust assets portfolio of $125 billion. Its aggressive digital-first strategy and regional growth helped solidify its number two position on the continent.

1. Standard Bank Group – South Africa

A titan amongst banks, Standard Bank Group prides itself as Africa's largest bank by assets, with a total portfolio value worth $180 billion. The bank boasts operations in 20 African countries and several global financial centers. In 2025, its strategic focus on fintech partnerships, green finance, and SME lending reaffirmed its leadership in shaping Africa’s banking future.