Nedbank Group-Interim Results

Old Mutual PLC 04 August 2005 NEDBANK GROUP LIMITED Registration number 1966/010630/06 Share code NED ISIN code ZAE000004875 INTERIM RESULTS 2005 Reviewed financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2005 COMMENTARY Highlights * Benefits of recovery programme gain momentum * Headline earnings increase 74,3% to R1 398 million * Headline earnings per share up 44,5% to 354 cents * Return on ordinary shareholders' equity increases from 11,7% to 14,6% * Efficiency ratio (excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses) improves from 77,9% to 68,6% * Broad-based black economic empowerment scheme approved * Interim dividend per share up 139% from 44 cents to 105 cents Nedbank Group's recovery programme is gaining momentum and the benefits are increasingly being reflected in our financial performance. Income is growing at a faster rate than expenses, with the efficiency ratio improving steadily and return on equity increasing. We continue to deliver on the commitments we have made to our shareholders and have reaffirmed our stated financial targets for 2007. Tom Boardman Chief Executive Overview Headline earnings per share increased by 44,5% to 354 cents (2004: 245 cents) in line with the revised forecast provided to the market on 21 July 2005. Fully diluted headline earnings per share increased from 243 cents to 354 cents. Basic earnings (previously known as attributable earnings) also grew strongly, rising from 247 cents per share to 356 cents per share for the period. The directors have resolved, in line with the circular to shareholders on the black economic empowerment (BEE) scheme, to offer a capitalisation award with a cash dividend alternative amounting to 105 cents per share, up from the dividend of 44 cents per share announced in August 2004. The group's return on ordinary shareholders' equity (ROE) continued to improve, increasing from 11,7% for the period to June 2004 to 14,6% for the six months to June 2005. The improved performance for the six months was driven mainly by: * the continued realisation of benefits from the recovery programme, which are reflected in the growth in operating income and the containment of expenses, resulting in the efficiency ratio (excluding foreign exchange translation gains/losses) improving from 77,9% for the period to June 2004 to 68,6% for the six months to June 2005; * significantly improved performance from Nedbank Retail, with headline earnings growing 105,1% to R439 million and return on average equity improving from 9,2% to 18,3%; * a strong performance from Nedbank Capital, with headline earnings growing 25,9% to R447 million; * a 5,9% growth in advances, compared with December 2004; * a continuation of the good credit environment, resulting in an improvement in the overall quality of advances; and * the weakening of the rand, resulting in a foreign currency translation gain of R165 million, compared with a loss of R98 million for the period to June 2004. Nedbank Group is reporting in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) with effect from 1 January 2005. The group's 2004 results have been restated to reflect the requirements of reporting under IFRS. Progress against three-year plan In the 2004 year-end results announced in February 2005, Nedbank Group outlined five major action plans that form the foundation of the group's three-year plan. To provide shareholders with an update on the group's progress delivery against each of these actions is detailed below: * Ensure that income growth is at least 9% higher than expense growth (on a three year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) basis with 2004 as the base) Good progress has been made towards achieving this target, with total income (excluding foreign currency translation gains) growing by 9,2%,while total expenses declined by 3,9% for the period. The group anticipates that although income is expected to continue to grow ahead of expenses, the difference will not be as large in future reporting periods as in the current period. * Maintain market share from the second half of 2005 There has been a slowdown in the rate at which the group has been losing market share, particularly in the key area of home loans in Nedbank Retail. Market shares are still expected to stabilise in the second half of the year. * Grow non-interest revenue through a focus on transactional revenue To grow transactional revenue the group has created focused teams and started to implement a range of initiatives to improve cross- selling, upselling, client service, pricing and bancassurance. The group recognises, however, that this is only a longer-term goal and the full benefits are expected to be realised from 2006. * Build Nedbank Retail Nedbank Retail has historically generated ROEs significantly below those of its retail banking peers. A key focus of the group is to deliver the financial turnaround of Nedbank Retail, while improving client service. Following the restructuring of Nedbank Retail in 2004, good progress has been made in growing revenue and containing expenses, resulting in headline earnings increasing by 105% and return on average equity increasing from 9,2% to 18,3%. The integration of Nedbank and Peoples Bank is progressing according to plan and remains on track for completion by the end of 2005. The restructuring and a focus on staff training will deliver improved client service. * Transform the business beyond the Financial Sector Charter (FSC) targets Nedbank Group's groundbreaking BEE transaction announced in April will see a broad range of black stakeholders acquire direct ownership worth 11,5% of the value of Nedbank Group's South African businesses. The transaction, worth more than R3 billion, was approved by an overwhelming majority of shareholders on 22 July 2005. The scheme shares are due to be issued to the respective BEE trusts on 8 August 2005. The group will then focus on implementing the schemes for employees, retail and corporate clients and community groups, as well as developing its working relationship with the strategic black business partners, based on their performance agreements. Appropriate emphasis still remains on other areas of transformation such as employment equity, skills development, procurement, access to financial services, empowerment financing and social responsibility. Strategy Nedbank Group remains committed to its strategy of: - focusing on the basics of banking to meet the financial services needs of clients; - being a full-spectrum bank, providing a comprehensive range of banking and related services to investment banking, corporate and retail clients across all client segments; and - adopting a Southern African focus, while also meeting the international banking needs of our Southern African clients and servicing multinational clients doing business in South Africa. The key strategic focus areas remain: - continuing to drive growth in transactional banking; - building a high-performance culture through the empowerment of employees and ensuring accountability throughout the organisation; - optimising the business mix by growing Nedbank Retail and improving the product and client mix; - moving beyond transformation as a business imperative and demonstrating the group's commitment to South Africa; and - instilling a client-driven business model by creating a client-focused structure and simplifying processes to speed up delivery to clients. By listening, understanding client needs and delivering to our stakeholders, the group strives to become Southern Africa's most highly rated and respected bank by employees, clients, shareholders, regulators and communities. Business environment The environment for the banking sector remained positive throughout the period. Stable, low interest rates and low inflation continued to drive consumer spending and retail advances growth. The positive economic conditions also stimulated equity markets and ensured a continuation of the positive credit environment. While the demand for credit in business banking and commercial property finance remains steady, and the initial signs of an increase in infrastructure spend are being noted, the demand for large corporate debt has been muted. The investment banking markets continued to experience strong deal flows, driven primarily by BEE transactions. Financial performance Nedbank Group continued to show a turnaround in performance, with headline earnings growing by 74,3% from R802 million to R1 398 million. Basic earnings grew by 73,3% from R810 million to R1 404 million. Net interest income Net interest income (NII) increased by 21,2% from R3 319 million to R4 024 million. The group's net interest margin for the period was 3,45%, up from 2,99% for the period to June 2004 and 3,18% for the 12 months to December 2004. To reflect more accurately the banking margin on banking assets by excluding trading activities and to facilitate easier peer group comparison, the group has reclassified certain trading revenues from NII to non-interest revenue (NIR). As a result, the previously reported NII of R3 595 million for the period to June 2004 has decreased by R276 million to R3 319 million. The previously reported comparative for NIR has consequently increased by R276 million from R3 495 million to R3 771 million. The margin increase can be attributed to: * the uplift created from a full six months of the rights offer proceeds received in May 2004; * reduced funding drag as a result of the low levels of interest rate risk in the banking book following the hedging strategy implemented last year; * income on the proceeds from the sale of non-core investments; * the repatriation of certain foreign capital during 2004; and * the settlement of the expensive empowerment funding for Peoples Bank in April 2005. However, margin was negatively impacted by the 1% reduction in the taxation rate for companies, which resulted in a R54 million reduction in margin arising from the treatment of structured finance deals. This reduction is offset by a corresponding reduction in the taxation line and will reverse over time. Margins have also been compressed by the impact of the lower interest rate environment and resulting drop in the endowment income earned on capital and the net of non-interest-paying liabilities and non-interest-earning assets. % of daily average interest-earning assets - unaudited % Rm December 2004 reported 3,13 7 582 Trading revenue and assets excluded from margin 0,05 (437) Adjusted 2004 margin 3,18 7 145 H1 2005 asset growth 719 Net endowment effect 0,18 166 - Rights issue 0,13 122 - Other 0,05 44 Current and savings accounts margin compression (0,10) (93) Market margin compression (0,16) (151) Expensive funding drag 0,11 100 Foreign capital repatriated 0,06 56 Subordinated debt hedge 0,05 46 Expensive empowerment funding for Peoples Bank 0,07 70 Tax structured deals impact 0,06 64 Other (7) June 2005 annualised 3,45 8 115 Non-interest revenue NIR, excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses, decreased by 1,5% from R3771 million for the period to June 2004 to R3 716 million for the six months to June 2005. NIR growth was negatively impacted by the sale of subsidiaries during 2004. In the six months to June 2004 the group generated R228 million of NIR from these subsidiaries. Commission and fee income in the remaining businesses continued to grow steadily, increasing by 11,1%. Trading revenue increased from R554 million for first half of 2004 to R657 million for the first half 2005. Exchange and non-interest dealings income is R216m down on the June 2004 comparative, of which R153m relates to fair value adjustments. Other factors that contributed to the movement in NIR are set out below: Major changes to NIR (Rm) - unaudited June 2005 June 2004 Rm Rm BondChoice 138 63 Realisation of endowment policies 3 32 Subsidiaries sold during 2004 228 First-time and pro rata consolidations 68 6 Taking the above factors into account, on a directly comparable basis, NIR increased by 1,0%. Foreign currency translation gains In line with the strategy of focusing on the basics of banking and reducing earnings volatility the group reduced its exposure to foreign currency movements during 2004, retaining sufficient capital to support the offshore businesses. Owing to the 18% decline in the value of the rand, which weakened from R5,63:US$1,00 on 31 December 2004 to R6,67:US$1,00 on 30 June 2005, the group benefited from translation gains of R165 million on the remaining capital held in its foreign subsidiaries and treated as rand functional currency for accounting purposes under IFRS. The adoption of IFRS has led to an increased portion of the foreign currency translation gains/losses being treated as movements in the balance sheet foreign currency translation reserve rather than being taken through the income statement. During the period, the group recorded balance sheet translation gains of R48 million. After further planned restructuring of offshore subsidiaries in the next six months and the associated repatriation of capital, the relative proportion of translation movements flowing through the balance sheet, as opposed to the income statement, is anticipated to increase further. This will further reduce the volatility of earnings resulting from exchange rate movements. Impairment losses on loans and advances The introduction of IFRS means that all banks now provide for credit impairments on an 'incurred loss' basis, as opposed to an 'expected loss' basis. In addition, the discount rate used to calculate the recoverable amount now excludes any allowance for a credit spread. This will create more volatility in the reporting of impairment losses on loans and advances in the income statement charge. As reported in May 2005, the impact of IFRS requirements on the impairments charge for the period to June 2004 was a reduction from the previously reported R719 million to R409 million. A major portion of the change to the June 2004 impairment charge for reporting in terms of IFRS was due to the improving credit environment at that time, combined with the move from reporting on an 'expected' to an 'incurred' loss basis. This improved environment was sustained throughout 2004 and in the first half of 2005, with the resulting impairment charge for the six months to June 2005 of R620 million. Non-performing loans and properties in possession improved, as reflected in the table below. Non-performing advances (Rm) - unaudited June 2005 Dec 2004 % change Rm Rm Non-performing loans 5 820 6 729 (13,5) Properties in possession 528 761 (30,6) Total non-performing advances 6 348 7 490 (15,2) These non-performing advances represent 2,7% of gross advances (December 2004: 3,3%). The group's gross coverage ratio improved from 89% at 31 December 2004 to 97% at 30 June 2005 and the net coverage ratio improved from 149% at 31 December 2004 to 157% at 30 June 2005. Expenses Expenses were well-controlled and declined by 3,9% from R5 524 million to R5 311 million, with the efficiency ratio (excluding foreign currency translation gains / losses) improving from 77,9% to 68,6%. This decline in expenses is mainly attributable to the following: Factors resulting in an increase/(decrease) in expenses - unaudited Rm First time consolidation of subsidiaries 35 Subsidiaries disposed in 2004 (168) Reduction in fees due to the buy-out of alliance partners (53) Reduction in one-off recovery and merger costs (275) Increase in fees (largely in BondChoice) 56 Other movements, mainly due to inflation 192 Total decrease in expenses (213) Excluding the one-off merger and recovery expenses from 2004, base expense growth was held at 1,2%. Approximately R48 million of recovery programme expenses have been deferred from the first half of 2005 to the second half of the year. Combined recovery programme and merger expenses are expected to be about R150 million for the year ending December 2005. Taxation The tax rate for companies was reduced from 30% to 29% during the reporting period. While tax on earnings decreased as a result, the downward revaluation of the deferred taxation and structured finance assets has resulted in the reduction of headline earnings by approximately R80 million. R54 million of this decrease was reflected as a reduction in NII, as outlined above. The balance of R26 million increased the taxation charge. This, together with a smaller relative impact on taxation from structured deals and an increase in secondary tax on companies (STC), has resulted in the effective taxation rate increasing from 14% to 22%. Balance sheet Capital The group's capital position continues to strengthen, with the Tier 1 group capital adequacy ratio increasing from 8,1% in December 2004 to 8,5% in June 2005. The total group capital adequacy ratio has remained stable at 12,2% (December 2004: 12,1%). Advances Although asset growth rates are behind those of the rest of the market, advances increased by 5,9% to R228 billion on an annualised basis, compared with December 2004. Residential home loan advances grew by 22,3%, with home loans in Nedbank Retail growing at 19%, narrowing the gap between Nedbank's growth and that of its competitors in this sector. The breakdown of the advances growth is as follows: Loans and advances - unaudited June 2005 Dec 2004 Annualised Rm Rm increase(%) Nedbank Retail 73 252 69 736 10,2 Nedbank Corporate 98 085 93 123 10,7 Nedbank Capital 34 395 32 606 11,1 Other 22 010 25 810 (29,7) Total 227 742 221 275 5,9 Deposits Deposits have remained stable and the group has maintained a strong liquidity position. Divisional performance Management information systems and reporting continue to be enhanced, with matched-maturity funds transfer pricing now operational and activity- justified funds transfer pricing refined to allocate additional costs from the centre to the respective operating divisions. The segmental reports have been adjusted to reflect these changes as well as other changes as a result of the group reorganisation completed in late 2004. Good progress has also been made in implementing economic capital measurement, which is currently being run in parallel with the existing reporting systems, with a view to full implementation for 2006. Nedbank Capital Nedbank Capital increased headline earnings by 25,9% from R355 million to R447 Million, and ROE improved from 23,5% to 28,2%. This was driven by 18,6% growth in trading revenue in Treasury due to favourable market conditions as well as good deal flow and a strong performance from Debt Capital Markets, Equity Capital Markets, Nedcor Securities, Investment Banking and Specialised Finance. Expenses have reduced despite higher joint-venture fees paid to Macquarie as a result of higher earnings. The expense reduction was aided by the sale of Edward Nathan & Friedland and lower rental costs following the relocation of the London offices to premises shared with Old Mutual plc. The benefits of an integrated investment bank with a strong focus on specific sectors are becoming evident and the transaction pipeline remains strong. Nedbank Corporate Nedbank Corporate increased headline earnings by 14,2% from R812 million to R927 million, while ROE increased from 17,7% to 19,1%. NII was negatively impacted by lower endowment levels, while margins (excluding endowment) were unchanged. Corporate loan growth is muted as clients remain cash flush, and the market is highly competitive. Growth in Business Banking assets in KwaZulu- Natal and the Western Cape is below average and some market share has been lost in these regions following the merger integration process. Property Finance continues to perform strongly and Nedbank Africa performed in line with expectations. NIR was boosted by the consolidation of Fasic (not included in the comparative period for 2004), a strong performance from BondChoice and growth in transactional banking. Fee generation on foreign exchange commission was lower than expected and there is increasing pressure on specialised fees. The impairment environment continues to be favourable, reflecting the current positive economic cycle. Operating expenses remain well-controlled. However, the expected appointment of further sales staff to improve client service is expected to result in a slight increase in staff expenses in the second half of 2005. New managing directors were appointed in Corporate Banking, Business Banking and Nedbank Africa at the start of the year. In addition, five divisional directors were appointed to head geographically based business units established in Business Banking to enhance client service, accountability and performance through decentralised and empowered management. Our commitment to going 'beyond transformation' is reflected through five of the eight appointments being either black or female executives. Pressure on margins in the current low-interest-rate environment, competitive pricing, disintermediation and corporate clients being cash flush will continue to impact earnings growth, particularly within Corporate Banking. Nedbank Corporate continues to build strong relationships with its core clients and to work closely with both Nedbank Retail (card acquiring and schemes) and Nedbank Capital to leverage client relationships and broaden the range of products and services to add greater value for clients. Nedbank Retail Nedbank Retail increased headline earnings by 105,1% from R214 million to R439 million, and ROE increased from 9,2% to 18,3%. Despite the negative endowment impact from the interest rate cut in April, NII was driven by strong advances growth primarily due to the 19% year-on-year growth in home loans. NIR benefited from increased volumes, insurance commissions and increased stockbroking activity in BoE Private Clients. The growth in credit impairments is distorted by the prior year IAS39 restatements that caused a R206 million reduction in the restated first half of 2004.After adjusting for this restatement, impairments reduced by 2,5% year on year. Expense growth, on a comparable basis, has remained flat, due to operational efficiencies and delays in marketing spend. Marketing spend is planned to increase in the second half of 2005. The rate of market share losses continues to slow, particularly in the key home loans sector. This has been driven by improved channel management and process and structural changes made in Nedbank Retail. The Nedbank / Peoples Bank integration is progressing well. The Peoples Bank and Nedbank branches are operating on a common IT platform and Peoples Bank is scheduled to convert fully to the Nedbank systems in August 2005. It is anticipated that 146 branches will be rebranded to Nedbank, 56 closed and 24 new branches opened. 11 branches have been closed to date, with the remaining 45 earmarked for closure by the end of 2005. The rationalisation and rebranding costs will amount to approximately R52 million, ,of which R10 million has already been incurred. Following this integration Nedbank Retail will have 443 Nedbank branches, 46 Old Mutual Bank branches, 1 119 Nedbank ATMs and 55 Old Mutual Bank ATMs. Nedbank Retail is currently replacing and upgrading all ATMs and self-service terminals at a capital cost of approximately R160 million. This is planned for completion by the second half of 2006. Good progress has been made in the first half of 2005 towards setting the foundation for the turnaround of Nedbank Retail. The key future focus areas in Nedbank Retail are client service, advances growth, reduction in impairments, bancassurance and staff morale. Imperial Bank Imperial Bank increased headline earnings by 19,1% from R47 million to R56 million. NII grew by 17,0%, despite the negative endowment impact of the interest rate cut. This was driven by strong growth of Motor Vehicle Finance, while advances growth in Property Finance slowed due to a more conservative approach to this sector of the business. Impairments declined by 12,5% due to a more favourable credit environment and to a reduction in provisioning requirements in both Property Finance and Aviation. Nedbank Group and Imperial Holdings each contributed R70 million of additional capital to Imperial Bank in March 2005. This has resulted in an initial dilution of ROE (measured on Nedbank Group's investment) from 14,2% to 10,3%, but will support future growth. During the six months to June 2005, a new Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer were appointed. This new management team has settled down well and staff morale is good. The outlook for the remainder of the year remains robust, with continued strong advances growth in the motor sector and a good credit environment expected to continue. Central Services Costs in central services divisions in 2004 have been restated to reflect the Reorganisation, which saw a number of previously centralised functions moving to the operating divisions, including the move of all branch operations to Nedbank Retail. Overall the headline loss from shared services has reduced from R128 million (R432 million pre-IFRS and prior to the above-mentioned restatements) to R94 million. The headline loss of R377 million (June 2004: R498 million or R987 million pre- IFRS and prior to the above-mentioned restatements) from Capital Management and Central Funding comprises primarily the preference share dividend, the funding of the group's goodwill, the cost of the expensive empowerment funding for Peoples Bank, the excess cost of the subordinated debt and the deferred tax rate adjustment, offset by the foreign currency translation gain. Sustainability Nedbank Group continues to focus on sustainable development for the long- term benefit of the company and the communities it serves. The group has again been included in the JSE Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) Index for 2005 and was rated among the top three companies in its category. Prospects Nedbank Group reaffirms its targets of achieving a return on average ordinary shareholders' equity of 20% and an efficiency ratio of 55% for 2007. Assuming a stable interest rate environment, the performance in the second half of the year is likely to be impacted by the following: * margin will benefit from the settlement of the expensive empowerment funding for Peoples Bank in the first half, but could be negatively influenced by the continued industry pressure on margins; and * expense growth will continue to be contained as the group focuses on extracting operational efficiencies, but will increase as a result of the branch rationalisation and rebranding costs of Peoples Bank (approximately R42 million), increased second-half marketing expenditure (approximately R100 million), the share-based payment cost of the BEE transaction (approximately R156 million) and one-off merger and recovery costs (approximately R150 million for 2005). The group continues to invest in technologies and infrastructure-related projects. Strategic initiatives are in progress to upgrade several legacy systems while at the same time preparing for the Basel ll systems requirements. Projects to upgrade transactional banking systems and consolidate multiple Corporate Banking channels are in progress. New financial processing systems and client information projects have been approved to support the client- centric strategy of the bank. All data and voice networks in the group have been outsourced, in conjunction with Old Mutual (SA), to a Telkom/CSC consortium, which will replace all existing network infrastructure with up-to-date technology. This outsourcing contract will save Nedbank approximately R700 million over the next five years, with savings of R60 million in 2005. The group is in the process of centralising information technology in the Group Technology and Support Services Cluster. As previously reported, the detailed three-year plan envisages: * The group maintaining its advances market share from the second half of 2005., expecting this to be achieved particularly in the key category of residential home loans, although categories such as credit cards may take longer; * continued growth in revenue ahead of growth in expenses; * a focus on growing transactional revenue; * Nedbank Retail being a major growth area for the group; and * Continued transformation of the group. Full-year earnings forecast As a result of the improved performance to date and expected earnings for the balance of the year - and assuming that exchange rates remain constant - the group forecasts headline earnings of between 58% and 78% higher than the R1 742 million restated results under IFRS for 2004. Headline earnings per share are estimated to be between 44% and 62% greater than the IFRS-restated 483 cents per share reported for December 2004. Basic earnings per share for the full year will be between 65% and 85% higher than the IFRS-restated 423 cents per share reported for December 2004. These forecasts have not been audited or reviewed by the company's auditors. Post balance sheet event - BEE transaction On 19 April 2005 the group announced its intention to implement a BEE ownership Transaction, which would increase black shareholding by 11,5% of the value of Nedbank's South African businesses. The proposals involve the issue of new ordinary shares in Nedbank Group to various share trusts for the benefit of black employees within the group, black clients and black business partners in South Africa. The proposals were approved by shareholders at a general meeting held on 22 July 2005. Implementation of the proposals will take place during August 2005, resulting in the listing of 41 268 130 new ordinary shares. Of these, 39 843 139 ordinary shares are to be accounted for as treasury shares. The total economic cost of this transaction is expected to be R968 million. Share-based payment costs in accordance with IFRS 2, which are required to be recognised on issue of the company's shares, are estimated at R933 million, of which R156 million is expected to be incurred in the second half of 2005. Changes to board of directors During the period under review, the following changes were made to the board of Nedbank Group: * Bob Head was appointed as a non-executive director (1 January 2005); * Hixonia Nyasulu resigned as an independent non-executive director and Vice-chairman (26 January 2005); * Phuthuma Nhleko resigned as a non-executive director (21 April 2005); and * Lot Ndlovu changed status from an executive director to non-executive director (1 May 2005). Accounting policies The Nedbank Group financial results have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as expected to be effective for the year ending 31 December 2005. These standards are subject to ongoing review and possible amendment in terms of interpretive guidance from the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC). The results may therefore be subject to change at future reporting dates. Restatement of comparatives: 1.The group's results for the June and December 2004 reporting dates have been restated to reflect the requirements of reporting under IFRS. These restated results for 2004 were disclosed in an announcement on 3 May 2005. The material adjustments for reporting under IFRS are noted in the reconciliation of results, as reported below. 2. Income reclassification - during the period under review the group changed its disclosure in respect of income and the 2004 results have been restated accordingly. The components of net interest income (NII) and non-interest revenue (NIR) were analysed and the nature and classification of interest income and non-interest revenue was refined. In essence, all income earned in respect of banking activities (i.e. transactions entered into for the purpose of earning a margin between interest earned and interest paid) is classified as either interest income or interest expense and included in NII. By the same token all transactions entered into for the purpose of trading activities are classified as part of NIR. The effect of this change in disclosure is to decrease NII by R276m for the period ended 30 June 2004 and R437m for the year ended 31 December 2004, with a simultaneous increase in NIR in the relevant periods. 3. Balance sheet reclassifications - certain provisions for leave pay and onerous leases totalling R425m have been reclassified, for the reporting period ended 30 June 2004, from the 'Amounts owed to depositors' category to 'Other liabilities' category. 4. Segmental reporting comparative results for 2004 have been restated to take into account the changes in improved profitability measurement and group restructures implemented late in 2004. The restatements include the new internal funds transfer pricing system, improved activity-justified transfer pricing process, and a risk-weighted capital allocation and charging methodology, while liquid assets and cash reserving costs are no longer held at the centre, but are charged to the operating segments. Operating lease costs - the historical accounting and interpretation in South Africa of AC105/IAS17 has not been in line with international interpretation and application. Interpretive guidance by the Accounting Practices Committee of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants - Circular 7/2005 issued on 2 August 2005- required minimum lease payments, which are subject to a fixed rate escalation, to be spread over the life of the lease and the escalation not to be accounted for in the year of occurrence. The group has assessed the materiality of any adjustment in terms of this requirement, and does not expect this adjustment materially to affect the current reported results. The impact on opening shareholders' equity is presently being assessed and, should this be material, the group will inform the market of any prior year adjustment required. Reviewed results - auditors' opinion The group's auditors, KPMG Inc and Deloitte & Touche, have reviewed these results and the review opinion is available for inspection at the company's registered office. Capitalisation award with a cash dividend alternative Notice is hereby given that the directors of the company have resolved to issue fully paid ordinary shares in the company as a capitalisation award to ordinary shareholders. Ordinary shareholders will be entitled, in respect of all or part of their shareholding, to elect to receive new fully paid ordinary shares, which shares will be issued only to those ordinary shareholders who elect in respect of all or part of their shareholding, on or before 12:00, Friday, 9 September 2005, to receive the capitalisation award shares. Shareholders not electing to receive new fully paid ordinary shares in respect of all or part of their shareholding will be entitled to receive a cash dividend alternative of 105 cents per ordinary share (the cash dividend alternative). In accordance with the provisions of STRATE, the electronic statement and custody system used by JSE Limited, the relevant dates for the capitalisation award election and the cash dividend alternative are as follows: 2005 Last day to trade to participate in the capitalisation award or the cash dividend alternative Friday, 2 September Shares trade ex the capitalisation award election and the cash dividend alternative on Monday, 5 September Listing of the maximum number of new ordinary shares that could be taken up in terms of the capitalisation award on Monday, 5 September Last day to elect to receive capitalisation award shares, failing which the cash dividend alternative, to be received by 12:00 Friday, 9 September Record date to participate in the capitalisation award or receive the cash dividend alternative Friday, 9 September Payment of the cash dividend alternative to shareholders who have elected not to participate in the capitalisation award or have participated in the capitalisation award in respect of only part of their shareholding Monday, 12 September New shares issued and posted or central securities depository participant (CSDP) or broker accounts credited regarding the shares to be issued to shareholders participating in the capitalisation award in respect of all or part of their shareholding on Monday, 12 September The maximum number of new shares listed in terms of the capitalisation award adjusted to reflect the actual number of shares issued in terms of the capitalisation award on or about Thursday, 15 September Shares may not be dematerialised or rematerialised between Monday, 5 September, and Friday, 9 September 2005, both days inclusive. The above dates and times are subject to change. Any changes will be published on SENS and in the press. The number of capitalisation shares to which shareholders are entitled will be determined in the ratio that 105 cents per ordinary share bears to the 30-day volume-weighted average price for the company's share, to be determined by no later than Friday, 26 August 2005. Details of the ratio will be published on SENS no later than Friday, 26 August 2005, and in the financial press the following business day. Trading in the STRATE environment does not permit fractions and fractional entitlements. Accordingly, where a shareholder's entitlement to new ordinary shares calculated in accordance with the above formula gives rise to a fraction of a new ordinary share, such fraction will be rounded up to the nearest whole number where the fraction is greater than or equal to 0,5 and rounded down to the nearest whole number where the fraction is less than 0,5. A circular relating to the capitalisation award and the cash dividend alternative will be posted to shareholders on or about Monday, 22 August 2005. Note: Dematerialised shareholders are required to notify their duly appointed CSDP or broker of his/her election in terms of the capitalisation award in the manner and at the time stipulated in the agreement governing the relationship between the shareholder and his/her CSDP or broker. For and on behalf of the board WAM Clewlow TA Boardman Chairman Chief Executive 4 August 2005 Registered office Nedbank Group Limited Nedbank Sandton 135 Rivonia Road Sandown, 2196 PO Box 1144 Johannesburg, 2000 Transfer secretaries Computershare Investor Services 2004 (Pty) Ltd, 70 Marshall Street Johannesburg, 2001 PO Box 61051 Marshalltown, 2107 Directors WAM Clewlow (Chairman), Prof MM Katz (Vice-chairman), ML Ndlovu (Vice-chairman), TA Boardman (Chief Executive), CJW Ball, MWT Brown (Chief Financial Officer), RG Cottrell, BE Davison, N Dennis (British), Prof B Figaji, RM Head (British), JB Magwaza, ME Mkwanazi, JVF Roberts (British), CML Savage, JH Sutcliffe (British) Company Secretary: GS Nienaber Reg No: 1966/010630/06 Share code: NED ISIN code: ZAE000004875 SPONSORS Merrill Lynch South Africa (Pty) Ltd Nedbank Capital This announcement is available on the group's website - www.nedbankgroup.co.za - together with the following additional information: * detailed financial information in HTML, PDF and Excel formats; * financial results presentation to analysts; and * link to a webcast of the presentation to analysts. For further information kindly contact Nedbank Group Investor Relations by e-mail at nedbankgroupir@nedbank.co.za. Financial highlights for the period ended Reviewed Restated Restated June June December 2005 2004 2004 Share statistics Number of shares listed m 395,3 392,9 394,2 Weighted average number of shares m 394,4 327,8 360,9 Fully diluted weighted average number of shares m 394,5 330,1 361,8 Headline earnings per share cents 354 245 483 Fully diluted headline earnings per share cents 354 243 481 Basic earnings per share (previously attributable earnings per share) cents 356 247 423 Fully diluted basic earnings per share cents 356 245 422 Dividend declared per share cents 105 44 120 Dividend paid per share cents 76 35 79 Dividend cover times 3,4 5,6 4,0 Net asset value per share (Investments at market value) cents 5 067 4 499 4 692 Tangible net asset value per share (Investments at market value) cents 3 803 3 162 3 400 Closing share price cents 7 439 6 170 7 780 Price earnings ratio historical 21 25 16 Market capitalisation Rbn 29,4 24,2 30,7 Key ratios Return on ordinary shareholders' equity % 14,6 11,7 11,0 Return, excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses, on ordinary shareholders' equity % 12,9 13,1 12,7 Return on total assets % 0,85 0,53 0,54 Return, excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses, on total assets % 0,75 0,58 0,62 Net interest income to interest-earning assets % 3,45 2,99 3,18 Non-interest revenue to total income % 49,1 52,5 53,1 Impairments to total loans and advances % 2,6 3,2 2,9 Efficiency ratio % 67,2 79,0 74,8 Efficiency ratio (excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses) % 68,6 77,9 73,5 Effective taxation rate % 22 14 24 Group capital adequacy ratio: Tier 1 % 8,5 7,9 8,1 Total % 12,2 12,3 12,1 Number of employees 21 266 23 172 21 103 Balance sheet Total equity attributable to equity holders Rm 20 028 17 677 18 497 Total shareholders' equity Rm 23 658 21 112 21 948 Amounts owed to depositors Rm 262 946 236 193 254 299 Loans and advances to customers Rm 227 742 206 553 221 275 Gross Rm 233 913 213 363 227 959 Impairment of loans and advances Rm (6 171) (6 810) (6 684) Total assets Rm 336 158 300 801 327 900 Assets under management Rm 73 686 87 574 68 982 Total assets administered by the group Rm 409 844 388 375 396 882 Earnings reconciliation Income attributable to equity holders Rm 1 404 810 1 527 Less: Non-headline-earnings items Rm 6 8 (215) Non-trading and capital items Rm 6 (9) (254) Taxation on non-trading and capital items Rm 17 39 Headline earnings Rm 1 398 802 1 742 Headline earnings (excluding foreign currency translation gains/losses) Rm 1 233 900 2 022 Income statement for the period ended Reviewed Restated Restated June June December Rm 2005 2004 2004 Interest and similar income 10 818 11 350 22 789 Interest expense and similar charges 6 794 8 031 15 644 Net interest income 4 024 3 319 7 145 Impairment charge on loans and advances 620 409 1 217 Income from lending activities 3 404 2 910 5 928 Non-interest revenue 3 716 3 771 8 373 Foreign currency translation gains/(losses) 165 (98) (280) Operating income 7 285 6 583 14 021 Total expenses 5 311 5 524 11 404 Operating expenses 5 064 4 943 10 239 Transaction taxes 164 170 470 Fees due to alliance partners 30 83 70 Merger expenses 53 94 246 Recovery programme expenses 234 379 Profit from operations before non-trading and capital items 1 974 1 059 2 617 Non-trading and capital items 6 (9) (254) Impairment of goodwill (91) (87) Profit/(Loss) on sale of subsidiaries, investments and property and equipment 6 137 (74) Net impairment of investments, property and equipment and capitalised development costs (55) (93) Profit from operations 1 980 1 050 2 363 Share of profits of associates and joint ventures 77 80 147 Profit before taxation 2 057 1 130 2 510 Taxation 454 159 668 Taxation on non-trading and capital items (17) (39) Profit for the period 1 603 988 1 881 Minority interest income attributable to - ordinary shareholders (83) (68) (125) - preference shareholders (116) (110) (229) Income attributable to equity holders 1 404 810 1 527 Reconciliation of restated income attributable to equity holders as reported under IFRS Reviewed for the period 30 June 31 December Rm Note 2004 2004 As previously reported 380 974 Adjustments for: Credit impairment 1 215 140 Revenue recognition and deferred acquisition costs 2 (14) (31) Goodwill 3 127 281 Foreign exchange 4 116 91 Share-based payments 5 (4) (15) Post-employment benefits 6 131 Property, plant and equipment 7 (10) (44) As reported under IFRS 810 1 527 Balance sheet as at Reviewed Restated Restated June June December Rm 2005 2004 2004 Assets Cash and balances with central banks 14 032 11 809 10 050 Other short-term securities 20 776 9 549 16 310 Government and other securities 24 320 22 322 26 224 Derivative financial instruments 22 146 21 509 27 560 Loans and advances to customers 227 742 206 553 221 275 Other assets 7 447 8 391 6 816 Current taxation receivable 200 174 196 Investments in associate companies and joint ventures 1 287 1 464 1 089 Investment securities 6 618 8 167 6 565 Post-employment assets 974 506 992 Deferred taxation asset 1 258 1 245 1 169 Investment property 174 133 174 Property, plant and equipment 2 745 2 704 2 828 Non-current assets held for sale 48 13 48 Computer software and capitalised development costs 1 322 1 558 1 419 Goodwill 3 673 3 695 3 676 Customers' indebtedness for acceptances 1 396 1 009 1 509 Total assets 336 158 300 801 327 900 Shareholders' equity and liabilities Ordinary share capital 395 393 394 Ordinary share premium 9 976 9 832 9 892 Reserves 9 657 7 452 8 211 Total equity attributable to equity holders 20 028 17 677 18 497 Minority shareholders' equity attributable to - ordinary shareholders 860 665 681 - preference shareholders 2 770 2 770 2 770 Total shareholders' equity 23 658 21 112 21 948 Derivative financial instruments 22 633 19 856 28 055 Amounts owed to depositors 262 946 236 193 254 299 Other liabilities 12 224 9 413 9 117 Deferred revenue 246 225 257 Current taxation liabilities 276 189 193 Deferred taxation liabilities 1 092 864 1 125 Post-employment liabilities 961 640 979 Investment contract liabilities 3 395 3 803 3 109 Long-term debt instruments 7 331 7 497 7 309 Liabilities under acceptances 1 396 1 009 1 509 Total liabilities 312 500 279 689 305 952 Total shareholders' equity and liabilities 336 158 300 801 327 900 Guarantees on behalf of customers excluded IAS39: Balance sheet classification of financial instruments reviewed as at 30 June 200530 June 200431 December 2004 Liab- Rm Assets ilities Assets Fair value 59 422 34 399 56 939 Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit and loss 54 287 34 399 54 369 Available for sale 5 135 2 570 Amortised cost 267 316 276 735 234 340 Loans and receivables 260 509 232 990 Held to maturity 6 807 1 350 Non-trading liabilities 276 735 Other assets and liabilities 9 420 1 367 9 522 Total shareholders' equity 23 657 336 158 336 158 300 801 Liab- Liab- Rm ilities Assets ilities Fair value 27 137 66 438 36 153 Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit and loss 27 137 63 283 36 153 Available for sale 3 155 Amortised cost 251 499 251 952 268 481 Loans and receivables 244 879 Held to maturity 7 073 Non trading liabilities 251 499 268 481 Other assets and liabilities 1 053 9 510 1 318 Total shareholders' equity 21 112 21 948 300 801 327 900 327 900 Cash flow statement for the period ended Reviewed Restated Restated June June December Rm 2005 2004 2004 Cash flows from operating activities 3 019 2 663 5 723 Change in working funds 1 688 (6 345) (11 804) Cash generated/(utilised) by operating activities before taxation 4 707 (3 682) (6 081) Taxation paid (360) (285) (835) Net cash generated/(utilised) by operating activities 4 347 (3 967) (6 916) Cash flows from investment activities (127) 1 228 2 836 Cash flows from financing activities (238) 2 321 1 903 Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 3 982 (418) (2 177) Cash and balances with central banks at beginning of period 10 050 12 227 12 227 Cash and balances with central banks at end of period 14 032 11 809 10 050 Statement of changes in shareholders' equity Ordinary Minority Preference Total share- share- share- holders' holders' holders' Rm equity equity equity Balance at 31 December 2003, as previously reported 11 647 652 2 802 15 101 IAS transitional adjustment (105) (30) (135) Restated balance at 31 December 2003 11 542 622 2 802 14 966 Shares issued for options exercised under the Nedcor Group (1994) Employee Incentive Scheme 94 94 Shares issued in terms of rights offer 5 151 5 151 Other share issues 101 101 Share issue expenses (197) (197) Preference share cumulative dividend (32) (32) Income attributable to equity holders 810 68 110 988 Preference share dividend paid (110) (110) Release of reserve previously not available (25) (25) Foreign currency translation reserve movements (116) (116) Revaluation of property (13) (13) Share-based payments reserve movements 5 5 Acquisition of subsidiaries (10) (10) Disposals of subsidiaries (5) (5) Dividends to shareholders (97) (97) Available for sale reserve 416 416 Other 6 (10) (4) Balance at 30 June 2004 17 677 665 2 770 21 112 Shares issued for options exercised under the Nedcor Group (1994) Employee Incentive Scheme 77 77 Other share issues 3 3 Share issue expenses (18) (18) Shares held by subsidiaries (1) (1) Preference share dividend paid (119) (119) Income attributable to equity holders 717 57 119 893 Release of reserve previously not available (23) (23) Foreign currency translation reserve movements (32) (32) Revaluation of property (21) (21) Share-based payments reserve movements 21 21 Dividends to shareholders (172) (15) (187) Available for sale reserve 205 205 Acquisition of subsidiaries (28) (28) Disposals of subsidiaries 5 5 Other 64 (3) 61 Balance at 31 December 2004 18 497 681 2 770 21 948 Shares issued for options exercised under the Nedcor Group (1994) Employee Incentive Scheme 86 86 Share issue expenses (1) (1) Preference share dividend paid (116) (116) Income attributable to equity holders 1 404 83 116 1 603 Release of reserve previously not available (28) (28) Foreign currency translation reserve movements 48 48 Foreign currency movements 23 23 Share-based payments reserve movements 38 38 Dividends to shareholders (300) (300) Available for sale reserve 242 242 Recapitalisation of Imperial Bank 70 70 Disposals of subsidiaries (10) (10) Other 42 13 55 Balance at 30 June 2005 20 028 860 2 770 23 658 Reconciliation of restated statement of changes in shareholders' equity as reported under IFRS 31 Dec 30 June 1 Jan Rm Note 2004 2004 2004 As previously reported 21 586 20 932 15 101 Income statement movements: Credit impairments 1 107 185 (33) Revenue recognition and deferred acquisition costs 2 (176) (156) (135) Goodwill 3 281 127 Foreign exchange 4 Share-based payments 5 18 8 7 Post-employment benefits 6 (88) (219) (219) Property, plant and equipment 7 220 235 245 Transfer of reserves As reported under IFRS 21 948 21 112 14 966 Segmental analysis June 2005 June 2004 Dec 2004 Reviewed Restated Restated Actual Average Actual assets Assets assets Rbn Rbn Rbn Nedbank Corporate 129 124 123 Imperial Bank 18 14 18 Nedbank Capital 85 54 70 Nedbank Retail 86 79 81 Shared Services 9 9 8 Capital Management & Central Funding 49 36 60 Eliminations (40) (26) (32) Total 336 290 328 Segmental analysis June 2005 June 2004 Dec 2004 Reviewed Restated Restated Operating Operating Operating income income income Rm Rm Rm Nedbank Corporate 2 872 2 797 5 944 Imperial Bank 322 267 482 Nedbank Capital 1 135 1 065 2 530 Nedbank Retail 3 346 3 263 6 687 Shared Services 162 61 506 Capital Management and Central Funding (528) (726) (1 859) Eliminations (24) (144) (269) Total 7 285 6 583 14 021 Segmental analysis June 2005 June 2004 Dec 2004 Reviewed Restated Restated Headline Headline Headline earnings earnings earnings Rm Rm Rm Nedbank Corporate 927 812 1 844 Imperial Bank 56 47 71 Nedbank Capital 447 355 906 Nedbank Retail 439 214 575 Shared Services (94) (128) (149) Capital Management & Central Funding (377) (498) (1 505) Eliminations Total 1 398 802 1 742 Geographical segmental analysis for the period ended June 2005 June 2004 Dec 2004 Reviewed Restated Restated Operating Operating Operating Rm income income income South Africa 6 704 5 646 12 686 Business operations 6 704 5 646 12 686 Merger and recovery programme expenses Foreign currency translation losses Minority interest income attributable to preference shareholders Rest of Africa 237 206 304 Rest of world 344 731 1 031 Business operations 344 731 1 031 Merger and recovery programme expenses Total 7 285 6 583 14 021 Geographical segmental analysis for the period ended June 2005 June 2004 Dec 2004 Reviewed Restated Restated Headline Headline Headline Rm earnings earnings earnings South Africa 1 210 526 1 513 Business operations 1 214 1 062 2 647 Merger and recovery programme expenses (53) (328) (625) Foreign currency translation losses 165 (98) (280) Minority interest income attributable to preference shareholders (116) (110) (229) Rest of Africa 79 83 45 Rest of world 109 193 184 Business operations 109 193 220 Merger and recovery programme expenses (36) Total 1 398 802 1 742 Material adjustments for IFRS restatements The basis of the material adjustments, net of the associated tax impact, as shown in the tables for 'Reconciliation of restated profit attributable to ordinary shareholders' and 'Reconciliation of restated statement of changes in shareholders' equity' are noted below: Note 1: Credit impairment Previously the group calculated its impairment losses on loans and advances on an 'expected loss' basis. Credit impairments were calculated using historical data and trends. The discount rate used to calculate the recoverable amount included an allowance for a credit spread. Under IFRS the group has moved to an 'incurred loss' basis. Impairment losses are incurred only if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more past events that have occurred since initial recognition. IFRS also allows for the creation of a credit impairment for incurred but not reported (IBNR) losses to provide for latent losses in a portfolio of loans that have not yet been individually evidenced. The discount rate used to calculate the recoverable amount now excludes any allowance for a credit spread. Note 2: Revenue recognition and deferred acquisition costs Previously fees charged and certain related acquisition costs for originating loans were recognised immediately in the income statement. In accordance with IFRS fees charged for loans are recognised as revenue as the services are provided. Initial fees, which relate to the future provision of services, are deferred and amortised over the anticipated period in which the services will be provided. Similarly, costs that are directly attributable to securing a loan are deferred as an asset and amortised as the related revenue is recognised. Note 3: Goodwill Previously the group recognised acquired goodwill at cost and amortised it on a straight-line basis over its expected useful life. Goodwill was subject to review for indications of impairment and any impairment losses were recognised in the income statement. IFRS requires that goodwill is not amortised, but is subject to impairment reviews, both annually and when there are indications that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Negative goodwill is no longer recognised on the balance sheet, but in the income statement as it arises. The 2004 goodwill amortisation previously recognised in the income statement has been reversed, resulting in a corresponding increase in equity. All goodwill has been tested for impairment at 1 January 2004, 30 June 2004, and 31 December 2004 in accordance with IFRS, with no further impairment being recognised on transition. Negative goodwill that was previously held on the balance sheet at the transition date was released to reserves. Note 4: Foreign exchange Previously the group classified the assets and liabilities of all foreign subsidiaries and branches as either foreign entities or integrated operations. The foreign currency adjustments arising from the translation of foreign entities were recognised directly in equity in the Foreign Currency Translation Reserve (FCTR), while those of the integrated operations were recognised in the income statement. IFRS requires the group to determine the 'functional currency' for all entities and the distinction between foreign entities and integrated operations has been removed. An entity, which has a non-rand functional currency, is translated at the closing exchange rate and the differences arising are reported directly to equity, while all other entities classified as having a rand functional currency report foreign currency translation differences in the income statement. The group has elected to apply the exemption afforded to it by IFRS 1 and reset the balance of the FCTR to zero at the date of transition to IFRS. Note 5: Share-based payments The group grants share options to employees under employee share incentive schemes. Other than costs incurred in administering the schemes, which were expensed as incurred, the schemes did not result in any expense to the group, except for a dilution in earnings per share when the shares were issued. In accordance with the requirements of IFRS the group has recognised an expense in the income statement, with a corresponding credit to equity, representing the fair value of outstanding employee share options with regard to its equity settled schemes. The fair value at the date of granting the options is charged to income over the relevant option vesting periods, adjusted to reflect actual and expected levels of vesting. Note 6: Post-employment benefits Previously the group elected to use the corridor method for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses. Only cumulative actuarial gains or losses in excess of 10% of the surplus or deficit in the fund were amortised in the income statement. Cumulative gains or losses inside this corridor were carried on the balance sheet and recognised over the expected remaining working lives of the employees. Under IFRS 1 the group has applied the option to eliminate its pension fund corridor against opening retained income at the date of transition. The asset has been eliminated, and the adjustment taken to retained earnings as at 1 January 2004. Future actuarial gains or losses will continue to be recognised using the corridor method. Note 7: Property, plant and equipment Previously property, plant and equipment were measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Under IFRS, equipment (principally computer equipment, motor vehicles, fixtures and furniture), is still stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Owner-occupied property has been recognised at revalued amounts, being the fair value at the date of revaluation less subsequent accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Increases in valuation of the properties are taken to a revaluation reserve. This revaluation reserve is amortised over the remaining useful life of the property. Land is not depreciated. Investment properties are stated at revalued amounts, being fair value at the date of revaluation less accumulated impairment losses. Increases or decreases in valuation are recognised in the income statement and investment properties are not depreciated. This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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