ShareKUWAIT: Gulf Bank K.S.C.P. announced its financial results for the first half ending June 30, 2024. The Bank reported a net profit of KD 28.2 million, a decline of KD 7.6 million or 21.3 percent compared to 2023 first half net profit of KD 35.8 million.
In addition, Gulf Bank recorded an operating income of KD 96.9 million for the first half of 2024, representing an increase of 5 percent compared to the same period of last year. Moreover, operating profit before provisions and impairments has increased to KD 52.6 million, representing a healthy growth of 6.6 percent compared to the first half of 2023.
The decline in net profit for the first half of 2024 is attributed to an increase in total provisions and impairments of KD 11.3 million compared to the same period of last year. Although this rise in total provisions and impairments has impacted short-term results, the Bank is diligently implementing sound risk management strategies to ensure long-term sustainable growth.
As for asset quality, the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio was 1.2 percent as of June 30, 2024, compared to the prior year level of 1.0 percent. Additionally, the Bank continues to have significant non-performing loans coverage ratio of 390 percent including total provisions and collaterals.
Total credit provisions as of June 30, 2024 reached KD 274 million whereas IFRS 9 accounting requirements (ie., ECL or expected credit losses) were KD 161 million. As a result, the Bank has a very healthy excess provision level of KD 114 million, above and beyond what is required by the IFRS 9 accounting requirements.
Compared to December 31, 2023, total assets increased by 3.6 percent to KD 7.4 billion, net loans and advances increased by 6.9 percent to KD 5.6 billion, while customer deposits increased by 9.5 percent to KD 4.6 billion and total shareholders’ equity reached KD 802 million.
The Bank’s regulatory Tier 1 ratio of 14.23 percent was 2.23 percent above the regulatory minimum of 12 percent and the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 16.35 percent was 2.35 percent above the regulatory minimum of 14 percent.
Financial performance and growth
Commenting on Gulf Bank’s first half 2024 financial results, Bader Nasser Al-Kharafi, Gulf Bank’s Chairman said: “For the second quarter of the year 2024, Gulf Bank consistently exhibits robust operational performance, reinforced by strong top-line growth and sound financial position metrics. We faced higher than usual credit costs which resulted in a decline in our net profit growth during the first half of the year compared to the same period of last year, however, we remain confident in the Bank’s future potential.” He added: “Having said that, we have seen our loan book significantly expand during the first half of 2024, reflecting the success of our strategic initiatives in meeting our clients’ evolving needs. This growth in loans displays our capacity to navigate and excel in dynamic market conditions, reinforcing our prominent position in the Kuwaiti banking sector.”
On the improvement of the Bank’s operational profitability, Al-Kharafi stated: “I am pleased with the continuous improvement in our operating profitability, especially in net interest income, operating income, and operating profit. This operational enhancement highlights our focus on strategic growth and financial discipline, reflecting our dedication to expanding strategically and maintaining financial stability.”
Operational efficiency
Following the completion of phase II of the new core banking system during the first half of 2024, Waleed Khaled Mandani, Gulf Bank Acting CEO commented: “We are pleased to announce the successful completion of Phase II of our core banking system, a significant milestone in our journey towards advancing customer centricity. This achievement strengthens our operational capabilities and reaffirms our focus to meet the evolving needs of our clients in a digitally driven era.” He added: “In partnership with fintech providers, Gulf Bank is ready to leverage these technological foundational changes to drive operational efficiencies and transform our branches into relationship and experience centers aiming to provide a personalized and seamless banking experiences to our clients.”
Customer excellence
Gulf Bank continues its strategic journey towards customer service excellence. On this front, Mandani stated: “Gulf Bank is committed to enhancing and developing customer services and implementing the latest and best technological applications, which are rapidly progressing us towards banking industry leadership.” He added:” Our most recent customer offerings included a revamped mobile application, partnerships with local providers to offer our SME customers with advanced payment solutions, and a digital financial market trading platform, catering for our clients’ financial and investment needs.”
Moreover, Mandani also stressed on the Bank’s readiness to support Kuwait’s developmental projects in line with the principles of transparency, achievement, and sustainability by stating: “We are dedicated to providing diverse financing plans that meet the evolving needs of this phase. Gulf Bank plays a significant role in Kuwait’s urban and economic development and our contribution varies between direct funding and partnerships with other financial institutions. We have already financed multiple initiatives crucial to Kuwait’s Vision 2035, particularly in sectors such as oil, construction, and infrastructure, emphasizing our essential role in Kuwait’s ongoing progress and prosperity.”
Islamic Sharia compliance
During the second quarter of 2024, Gulf Bank’s announced that the Board of Directors request for the engagement of an international consultant to undertake a feasibility study regarding the potential conversion of Gulf Bank to operate in accordance with Islamic Sharia principles. The Central Bank of Kuwait has granted approval for the commencement of this study.
ESG eecognition
Gulf Bank has recently unveiled its 2030 ESG strategy defining its commitment across key pillars: Responsible Governance, Fair Work Environment, Community Engagement, and Banking Responsibility. This strategic initiative reinforces the Bank’s operational integrity and illustrate its profound impact in the domain of sustainability. Celebrating these achievements, Gulf Bank has been honored with two esteemed awards: one acknowledging its exceptional efforts in social responsibility and community engagement from Euromoney, and the other for fostering the best workplace environment that promotes diversity and inclusion from the Gulf International CSR Conference. These awards emphasize the Bank’s proactive approach in shaping a future where ESG principles complements its mission and success.
Moreover, Gulf Bank was recognized by MEED magazine with two prestigious awards: the “Best Implementation of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives” and the “Best Initiative for Women in Business” award for the Middle East and North Africa region. These awards were received in recognition of Gulf Bank’s appreciation for women role in economic growth and upholding sustainability principles at the workplace and the community.
Credit worthiness
Gulf Bank continues to be well recognized internationally in terms of its credit worthiness and financial strength by international credit rating agencies for its sound capitalization, improving profitability and strong asset quality. As of 30th June 2024, Gulf Bank has an affirmed ‘A3’ Long-Term Deposit Rating and ‘Positive’ outlook from Moody’s Investor Services. In addition, The Bank has an affirmed Long-Term Issuer Default Rating at ‘A’ with a ‘Stable’ Outlook and a Viability Rating of ‘bbb-‘ by Fitch Ratings. Moreover, Gulf Bank has also an affirmed Long-Term Foreign Currency Rating of ‘A+’ with a ‘Stable’ Outlook from Capital Intelligence Ratings.
Appreciation
Al-Kharafi concluded his remarks by stating:“Moving forward, we anticipate sustainable growth in the years ahead, supported by our efforts towards innovation, solid financial performance, and customer-focused approach.” He added: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank our shareholders for their ongoing trust, and our employees for their commitment and dedication. I would also like to thank the regulatory authorities for their continuous support. Finally, I want to thank our customers for their loyalty, and reiterate our commitment to offering them the best banking experience.”
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Key financial indicators for the first half of 2024
• First Half 2024 net profit of KD 28.2 million.
• First Half 2024 operating income of KD 96.9 million, an increase of 5 percent compared to same period of last year.
• Operating profit before provisions impairments reached KD 52.6 million, an increase of 6.6 percent compared to same period of last year.
• Net loans and advances grew by 6.9 percent year-to-date to reach KD 5.6 billion.
• Non-performing loan ratio as of June 30, 2024 was 1.2 percent, with a strong non-performance loan coverage ratio of 390 percent.
• Capital ratios as of 30 June 2024, Tier 1 ratio was 14.23 percent and Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) was 16.35 percent.
