Economic Resilience and Profitability
The Bank of Cyprus has reported a profit after tax of €133 million for the first quarter of 2024. Despite a 4 percent decline from the previous quarter, this figure marks a significant 40 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Group CEO Panicos Nicolaou highlighted the bank’s strong start to the year, emphasizing the proposed total distribution of €137 million in respect of 2023 earnings, which includes a cash dividend and an inaugural share buyback program.
Underpinning these financial results is Cyprus’s resilient economy, which saw a 3.3 percent GDP growth in the first quarter, surpassing the Euro area average. The bank also experienced a surge in new lending, with the gross performing loan book reaching €10 billion. Nicolaou attributed this success to the Cypriot economy’s strength amidst geopolitical uncertainty.
Profitability and Efficiency
The Bank of Cyprus delivered a robust Return on Tangible Equity (ROTE) of 23.6 percent, with Net Interest Income (NII) standing at €213 million. Despite a slight decrease in NII due to Euribor rate changes and deposit costs, the bank managed to reduce its total operating expenses by 14 percent from the previous quarter, resulting in an improved cost-to-income ratio.
Nicolaou praised the bank’s performance, noting the fifth consecutive quarter with a ROTE over 20 percent and highlighting the focus on cost discipline and asset quality.
Balance Sheet Strength
The bank maintains a strong balance sheet with a Non-Performing Exposure (NPE) ratio of 3.4 percent and an increased NPE coverage ratio. The retail funded deposit base remained stable, and high liquidity was demonstrated with significant placements at the European Central Bank and repayment of TLTRO funds.
In April 2024, the Bank of Cyprus issued €300 million in Green Senior Preferred Notes, marking its first-ever green bond issuance and contributing to Cyprus’s sustainable future. This issuance also ensured compliance with the Minimum Requirement for Own Funds and Eligible Liabilities (MREL).
Capital and Shareholder Focus
The bank’s capital position remains robust, with CET1 and Total Capital ratios standing at 17.1 percent and 22 percent, respectively. Organic capital generation was notable in the first quarter, and tangible book value per share increased by 26 percent year-on-year.
Nicolaou concluded by stating that the bank will review its financial targets alongside its first half of 2024 results and remains committed to executing its strategy focused on customer support, shareholder value, and assisting the development of the Cypriot economy.
