Egypt’s banking sector recorded a $6.1 billion decline in net foreign assets (NFA) during March 2026, according to data released by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE).

 

The sector’s net foreign assets fell to $21.3 billion at the end of March, down from $27.4 billion in February.

 

Commercial banks accounted for the largest share of the decline, with their net foreign assets decreasing by around $5.9 billion during the month.

 

Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Egypt’s own net foreign assets recorded a smaller decline of approximately $130 million.

 

According to the CBE data, foreign assets held abroad by commercial banks dropped by $3.6 billion to $39.4 billion in March.

 

At the same time, foreign currency liabilities increased by around $2.4 billion to reach $33.6 billion.

 

Net foreign assets reflect the difference between banks’ foreign currency assets, including deposits and savings held abroad, and their external liabilities. The indicator is closely watched as a measure of foreign currency liquidity within the banking system and its ability to meet external obligations.