Lion Finance Group PLC shares jumped 7% following a robust Q4 profit report and dividend hike. The Georgia-based financial services firm reported adjusted profit of GEL 619.3 million (+22.7% YoY), driven by loan growth and fee income in Georgian and Armenian markets. Full-year 2025 profit reached GEL 2.2 billion, with a 20.9% YoY increase. Dividends per share rose to GEL 2.75 quarterly (GEL 10.50 annually), up 16.7% YoY, while a GEL 53.5 million share buyback program was approved, bringing total buybacks to GEL 203 million.

The company's loan portfolio expanded to GEL 40,065.7 million (+19.7% YoY), supported by client deposits of GEL 38,630.0 million (+17.3% YoY). Operating income rose 16.4% YoY to GEL 1,201.3 million, with non-interest income surging 10.1% due to fee growth in both regions. CEO Archil Gachechiladze highlighted 28.4% return on average equity for 2025 and declining credit risk (0.3% cost of credit ratio).

The buyback program and dividend increase signal confidence in sustained profitability, while strong fee income (33.8% in Georgia, 34.1% in Armenia) reflects diversified revenue streams. Asset quality improvements and double-digit growth in key markets position Lion Finance for continued investor interest.

Analysts note: The GEL 40,065.7 million loan book and GEL 38,630.0 million deposits underscore deposit stability amid regional economic shifts. With 21.6% book value per share growth, Lion Finance remains a standout in Eastern Europe's financial sector.