2026.05.2510:30:00UTC+00Kuwait Bank Lending Growth Cools in April, Year-on-Year Pace Eases to 5.97%

Kuwait’s bank lending growth slowed in April 2026, with the year-on-year rate easing to 5.97%, down from 7.29% in March 2026. The latest data, updated on 25 May 2026, indicate a moderation in credit expansion across the banking sector compared with the same period a year earlier.

The figures are based on a year-over-year comparison, measuring how much bank lending in April 2026 increased relative to April 2025. The previous reading for March 2026 was likewise measured against March 2025. The step down from 7.29% to 5.97% suggests a cooling in the pace of loan growth, which may reflect shifting credit demand, tighter financial conditions, or more cautious lending standards.

While lending continues to expand on an annual basis, the deceleration will be closely watched by market participants and policymakers, as it can signal changing momentum in Kuwait’s domestic economic activity and credit cycle.