Scotiabank T&T has recorded a profit after taxation of $324 million for the six months ended April 30, 2024, which represents an increase of $11 million or 3 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.
In a news release yesterday, the bank said earnings per share (EPS) increased to $1.83 cents, which was "driven by the increase in profitability.”
In his note to shareholders, the bank's chairman, Derek Hudson, said the group recorded an increase in total revenue of $33 million or four per cent, driven mainly by growth in net interest income of $39 million or six per cent.
“This increase was achieved through continued strong growth in loan balances in both retail and commercial segments. The increase in net interest income was partially offset by declines in other income of $5 million or two per cent, arising from lower trading revenues. The group continues to navigate the impact of inflation, while also focusing on investing in our people, technology, and customer experience,” Hudson detailed.
Non-interest expenses, he said, increased by $34 million or nine per cent over the prior year and despite this increase, the bank’s productivity ratio stands at 43 per cent. It remains the best in class in the local banking sector.
Also commenting on the group's performance managing director of Scotiabank T&T, Gayle Pazos, said yet another strong performance by the group was driven by growth in core revenues, especially in the area of net loans to customers which grew by $1.3 billion resulting in increased loan interest income.
"Correspondingly, deposits from customers also grew by $1.3 billion or six per cent, reflecting the continued confidence our customers place in us as we provide solutions to their financial needs,” Pazos added.
The bank announced a dividend of $0.70 per share for the second quarter.