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Banking comparison

DTB vs I&M: which is right for you?

DTB and I&M are two of the strongest mid-tier banks in Kenya. Both are tier-1 by capital but smaller than the KCB-Equity-Co-op trio. They target overlapping segments: upmarket retail, SMEs, and mid-corporates. The choice often comes down to whether you bank with a network (DTB in East Africa) or one focused on relationship banking (I&M).

Diamond Trust Bank

bank,516600

A mid-tier Kenyan bank with strong East African presence and an Aga Khan Development Network heritage.

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I&M Bank

bank,542542

A mid-tier Kenyan bank historically focused on SME and corporate banking, with a recent retail push.

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Which is better for what

Quick guide by use case. Pick the row that matches your situation.

For an SME owner needing relationship banking

I&M built its book on SME and mid-corporate relationships, with relationship managers who know your business.

I&M

For an East African traveller or business

DTB operates across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi, simplifying cross-border banking.

DTB

For day-to-day retail banking

Both serve the upmarket retail customer with similar fee structures and digital-banking features.

Either works

For diaspora remittance

DTB has a dedicated diaspora banking unit and a longer track record on remittance corridors.

DTB

At a glance

DTBI&M
Sectorbankbank
M-PESA paybill516600542542
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Common questions

What is DTB's M-PESA paybill?

Diamond Trust Bank's M-PESA paybill is 516600. Account number is your bank account number.

What is I&M Bank's M-PESA paybill?

I&M Bank's M-PESA paybill is 542542. Account number is your bank account number.

Are DTB and I&M tier-1 banks?

Yes. Both are tier-1 banks under the Central Bank of Kenya classification (capital above the KES 5 billion threshold).

Which has lower account fees?

They are similarly priced for upmarket retail. I&M is slightly more competitive for SME accounts with high transaction volumes.

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