Shares of the ANZ group (ASX:ANZ) has released its annual results for the financial year ending September 30, 2024, showing mixed performance metrics amid its strategic acquisition of Suncorp Bank. The bank’s statutory profit attributable to shareholders fell 8% to $6.54 billion. Its cash profit fell 9% to $6.73 billion, lower than some analysts expected. This decline reflects significant expenses related to the acquisition of Suncorp, which closed on July 31, 2024.
Earnings per share (EPS) also reflect the bank’s difficult year. Full-year core EPS fell 8% to 217.9 cents, down from 237.1 cents in 2023. Diluted EPS followed suit, falling 5% to 215, 1 cent compared to 227.4 cents the previous year.
The acquisition of Suncorp Bank had a notable impact on ANZ’s financials through an after-tax credit impairment charge of $244 million and an accelerated software amortization charge of $25 million after tax. These adjustments were recognized as part of aligning Suncorp’s activities and policies with ANZ standards. Despite the immediate costs, it is argued that the acquisition will strengthen ANZ’s commercial and retail banking capabilities, improving customer reach and geographic presence.
Revenue for ANZ remained stable at $20.55 billion, in line with the previous year’s figure. Net interest margin (NIM) for the year fell from 1.70% to 1.57%, indicating tighter financial conditions. Total operating expenses rose 6% to $10.74 billion, reflecting acquisition-related costs and overall inflationary pressures.
Dividends remained a focus for shareholder returns, with ANZ proposing a final dividend of 83 cents per share, partially franked at 70%, in line with the interim payment earlier in the year. This brought the overall dividend for the year to 166 cents, a modest reduction from the 175 cents distributed in 2023.
CEO Shayne Elliott highlighted the importance of the Suncorp Bank integration, saying: “Our strategy is to improve customer financial well-being and sustainability through excellent services, tools and insights.” The bank highlighted that the acquisition has already started to deliver scale benefits, contributing to growth in net lending and customer deposits.
ANZ also reported that total assets grew 11% to $1.23 trillion, and customer deposits rose 12% to $715.2 billion, supported by the inclusion of Suncorp.