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Bangkok Bank (BBL) Reports 6.2% Net Profit Growth for 9M2024 – Strong Capital Ratios Amid Rising NPLs

Financial Analysis Report for Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (BBL)


Report Date and Financial Year

  • Date of Report: September 30, 2024
  • Financial Year: Nine months ended September 30, 2024

Business Overview

Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (BBL) is one of Thailand’s largest commercial banks, primarily engaged in retail and commercial banking services. The bank operates across various segments including corporate and investment banking, personal banking, and treasury services. Geographically, it has a presence within Thailand and several international branches, leveraging both domestic and foreign markets.

  • Industry Position: BBL is a major player in Thailand’s banking industry, competing with other top banks like Kasikornbank and Siam Commercial Bank.
  • Revenue Streams: Primarily from net interest income and non-interest income (including bancassurance, mutual fund services).
  • Customer Base: Large corporate clients and retail customers.
  • Supply Chain: Strong domestic footprint supported by foreign subsidiaries and international branches.
  • Competitive Advantage: BBL’s strong capital base, prudent risk management, and focus on customer-centric services contribute to its competitive edge.

Key Financial Statements Analysis

1. Income Statement

  • Net Interest Income: Reached Baht 99,923 million, a 4.4% increase YoY, driven by higher yields on earning assets and efficient liquidity management, despite higher deposit costs.
  • Non-Interest Income: Increased by 5.1% to Baht 31,110 million, supported by gains in investment income and growing fee income from bancassurance and mutual fund services.
  • Net Profit: BBL reported a net profit of Baht 34,807 million for the nine months, a 6.2% increase YoY, demonstrating stable earnings growth.

2. Balance Sheet

  • Total Assets: Baht 4,475,155 million, slightly decreasing by 0.9% from the end of 2023, reflecting stable asset management.
  • Loans: Total loans stood at Baht 2,638,697 million, a decrease of 1.2% YTD, primarily due to lower volumes in the manufacturing sector.
  • Deposits: Deposits amounted to Baht 3,109,982 million, decreasing by 2.3% YTD, with a loan-to-deposit ratio at 84.8%.
  • Capital Adequacy: The total capital adequacy ratio was at 20.8%, well above regulatory requirements, signaling strong financial stability.

3. Cash Flow Statement

  • Operating Cash Flow: Showed strong liquidity management despite increasing deposit expenses.
  • Investments: Increased by 8.8% YTD, with strategic placements in Thai government securities and foreign debt, contributing to income stability and capital growth.

Dividend and Key Financial Metrics

  • Dividend: A total of Baht 13,360 million in dividends, including an interim dividend of Baht 2.00 per share for H1 2024, reflecting BBL’s commitment to shareholder returns.
  • Earnings per Share: EPS of Baht 18.23, a 6.2% increase YoY.
  • Return on Equity: 9.07%, showcasing moderate profitability aligned with industry standards.

Key Strengths

  1. Consistent Profit Growth: Net profit growth of 6.2% YoY highlights effective cost and credit risk management.
  2. Strong Capital Position: Capital adequacy ratios significantly exceed regulatory requirements, providing a cushion for market fluctuations.
  3. Resilient Non-Interest Income: Growth in bancassurance and mutual funds has boosted non-interest income, diversifying revenue streams.

Key Risks

  1. Increased Non-Performing Loans (NPL): NPL ratio rose to 3.4%, up from 2.7% in 2023, indicating potential credit risk.
  2. High Cost of Funds: Deposit costs increased by 21% YoY, which may impact profit margins if interest expenses continue rising.
  3. Dependence on Thai Market: Although diversified, significant exposure to the Thai market and macroeconomic factors could affect earnings stability.

Special Activities to Improve Profitability

  • Operational Efficiency Initiatives: BBL invested in operational efficiency and marketing, which increased operating expenses but should contribute to future revenue growth.
  • Loan-Loss Provisions: Consistently high provisions, reflecting a conservative approach, have supported BBL in managing credit risk effectively.

Investor Recommendations

For Current Holders

  • Recommendation: Hold. The bank shows stable growth, a strong capital base, and attractive dividends. However, investors should watch for rising NPLs and cost of funds, which may impact earnings.

For Potential Investors

  • Recommendation: Buy with Caution. BBL’s robust capital adequacy and profit growth make it a sound investment, but caution is advised due to macroeconomic uncertainties in Thailand.

Disclaimer: This recommendation is based on the provided financial data and does not consider individual investment objectives or risk tolerance.

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