Zenith Bank has emerged as Nigeria’s second most valuable bank, closely following Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO). As of July 17, 2025, Zenith Bank’s market capitalization rose to N3.12 trillion, surging 6.1% in about two days from N2.94 trillion. This increase is attributed to the lender’s share price rising by 6.29% to N76 per share, highlighting growing investor sentiment in the company’s shares.
The key factors contributing to Zenith Bank’s growth include its robust earnings strength, meeting the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalization target, expansion into digital banking, and analyst upgrades. The bank posted an annual net profit of over N1 trillion in 2024, demonstrating its strong financial performance. Zenith Bank successfully met the CBN’s N500 billion recapitalization target, boosting investor confidence. The bank’s continued investment in digital banking is expected to drive earnings growth in 2025. Equity analysts have revised their price targets upward, betting on the bank’s strong fundamentals and cost discipline.
In terms of market performance, Zenith Bank’s market capitalization has reached N3 trillion, with 41.06 billion shares outstanding. The bank’s shares peaked at N72 per share on July 14, 2025, before closing at N71.50. Zenith Bank has recorded a 21.70% valuation jump year-to-date.
In comparison with other banks, GTCO remains Nigeria’s most valuable bank, with a market capitalization of N3.68 trillion. United Bank for Africa (UBA) ranks third, with a market valuation of N1.16 trillion.
