COLOMBO: Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance PLC (“MBSL” or “the Company”)continued to demonstrate strong turnaround in performance, generating a profit of RS 135.04 million during the first half of 2016, compared to losses of Rs 43.54 million in the same period of last year.
Meanwhile, the MBSL Group (consisting of MBSL and its subsidiaries) also recorded commendable turnaround in comparison to the corresponding period of last year, to achieve a net profit of Rs 77.60 million, compared to losses of Rs 58.70 million the previous year. The strong performance during the year is testimony to the Group’s continued efforts in driving synergies across its multiple business lines, and pursuing further diversification of its loan portfolio. Emphasis was also placed on improving collections and strengthening the overall quality of the loan portfolio which has led to a sustained decline in impairment charges.
The Company’s net loans and advances grew by 9% during period to Rs 25.26 billion led by broad based growth in leasing (+6%) and other loans (+13%). Emphasis on expanding the business loans and micro loans segment enabled the Company to diversify its portfolio from its traditional focus area of leasing. Meanwhile, demand for leasing facilities were affected by the sharp increase in duties as well as the escalation in vehicle import prices following the depreciation of the rupee.
Overall, the Company’s net interest income grew by 3.93% while the Group recorded net interest income growth of 5.23%. A significant drop in impairment charges against stronger collection and recovery mechanisms, upheld overall performance at both Company and Group level allowing net operating income growth of 53% and 35% respectively. MBSL’s post-tax profit recorded strong turnaround to Rs 135.04 million during the period under review. On a consolidated basis, the Group’s performance has continued to improve every quarter since its amalgamation, reflecting the accrual of synergies as well as people and process efficiencies.
