Bank of Queensland Warns of Rising Bad Loans Amid Economic Uncertainty

0

In the six months up to the end of February, the bank reported a total income of $793 million, a slight decrease from the $795 million recorded in the previous year. However, post-tax cash earnings increased by 6% to reach $183 million, driven by improved margins, reduced costs, and lower credit losses, surpassing the expected $165.7 million.

The bank's net interest margin, which measures the difference between the interest received by a bank and the interest it pays on deposits, rose to 1.57%, aligning with market forecasts. BOQ's managing director, Patrick Allaway, highlighted the bank's transition to a more streamlined, specialist bank offering a superior customer experience through its digital platform.

Allaway expressed confidence in the bank's strategy to shift its portfolio towards high-return segments and transform the retail bank into a scalable and cost-efficient digital entity. The changes aim to enhance customer experience and improve overall performance for stakeholders.

BOQ successfully converted all 114 owner-managed branches into corporate branches by March, incurring costs estimated between $115-$125 million for the full year. Despite ongoing challenges, the bank remains committed to delivering positive outcomes through strategic decisions.

Amid persistent cost-of-living pressures and anticipated prolonged high-interest rates, BOQ forecasts an increase in loan impairment expenses from historically low levels. The bank anticipates further cash rate easings in 2025, although the exact timing and extent remain uncertain.

The bank perceives improvements in the Australian economy during the half-year, bolstered by rising disposable household incomes, a robust labor market, and growing consumer confidence. Notwithstanding global geopolitical uncertainties, BOQ remains optimistic about its long-term prospects.

The Bank of Queensland declared an interim dividend of 18 cents per share, with shares climbing 4.7% to $6.81 by late morning.

Published:Wednesday, 16th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Saudi Arabia's Sidra Capital Ventures into Australian Private Credit Sector 24 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori Sidra Capital, a prominent alternative investments manager from Saudi Arabia, has made headlines with the launch of a new private credit investment fund targeting Australia's thriving mining and energy industries. The Sharia-compliant fund, known as the Sidra Asia Pacific Private Investments Sub-Fund I, will be headquartered in Singapore and managed by Sidra's local team there. - read more

Australian Fund Managers Brace for Impacts of US Tariff Policy 22 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori The imposition of US tariffs under former President Donald Trump's administration is predicted to challenge Australia's publicly listed fund managers, according to analysis by research and ratings firm Morningstar. Shaun Ler, an equity analyst with Morningstar, suggests that these financial entities might experience a gradual decline in earnings over the medium term due to reduced cyclical benefits from interest rate cuts and increased market volatility. - read more